The Prevalence of Cruising Encounters

Wow! This appears to be something that gay activists don't really want exposed to the general public.

Here's an article that points out the prevalence of homosexual cruising encounters.

Excerpt:

Lest we believe that the men's rooms in the Minneapolis airport are the only places that this type of conduct occurs, the Larry Craig case is merely the tip of the iceberg. "Cruising" can be found all over the country. In one study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of a major metropolitan area in the northwestern United States, 88% of men infected with STDs were engaging in homosexual behavior at public but anonymous venues such as bath houses. In another study by the CDC, 64% of men who contracted an STD were having sex with men in public places.

Still have doubt about the prevalence of "cruising"? Then consider the Little Black Book published by Lambda Legal (data.lambdalegal.org/pdf/262.pdf). The Little Black Book is a disturbing example of one of this country's largest homosexual behavior advocacy groups offering legal advice on how to "safely" act both illegally and unsafely. When the Little Black Book warns that "Remember cops may be 'cruising' too," I suppose that this is what Lambda Legal considers good, well-reasoned advice. Instead of helping its followers engage in illegal homosexual behavior, one would think Lambda Legal would genuinely attempt to help those about whom it professes to care by warning of the dangers of "cruising" and discouraging it as a practice.

Recently, significant news on the issue of "cruising" came forth from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where the mayor remains under extraordinary public scrutiny for suggesting measures to curb the out-of-control homosexual "cruising" in his city. After all, with him alleging that his city has the highest HIV infection ratio from homosexual conduct in the country, you would think that the mayor's efforts would be applauded, not condemned, especially by the homosexual community. However, Fort Lauderdale's problems bring to light the true face of homosexual behavior—anonymous and multiple sexual encounters in public places—something that the advocates of homosexual behavior do not want exposed.

The article certainly stirred up a hornet's nest of angry comments. I only got through about the first twelve, so far.

Need to go relax and veg out on the couch tonight. Reading that huge list of comments can wait until tomorrow.

P.S. Can anyone else see the absolute craziness of allowing gay groups to come in and teach about this sick lifestyle to young children in schools?

John Edward's recent comments on the "king & king" book were anything but funny. They were scary! This guy agrees:

[To Joseph Farah:] In reference to John Edwards' comments in the debate about the "King and King" book, I, too, could not believe my ears. At first I nearly fell off the couch laughing, until I thought about it a minute longer and was suddenly horrified that this man has children. He has no backbone, no moral compass and apparently a staggering lack of understanding of a parent's role in a child's life.
Roy Eyman

One of Life's Greatest Questions

What is one question that many people want to know the answer to?



Where Are They Now?



Answer: One of two places...

*******

HT: Turning Point

LightSource.com

Without Sound Doctrine, One Can Easily Be Deceived

In a former blogpost, I emphasized that sound doctrine is crucial in our Christian walk with Jesus. I re-posted that thread at my message board, and a member named Sothenes brought up this point:

What is missing here is an understanding as to why Sound Doctrine is important. There are a lot of good verses here but there are two overall points that I would like to make.

I know people who are constantly erring in the faith and they think they are more spiritual because they are charismatic and yet they will believe in things that are constantly unscriptural and when I object, they say something like,"Why aren't we Christian?"

If we make something other than God the object of our desires, the major themes will be idolatry. Dinonysus was the god of sex so even though we don't understand sex as a god, the ancients did have them as gods.

Only the foundation of the Church (Apostles and Prophets) were given infallibility through inspiration and we can't claim that alone without scripture. We can make mistakes but scripture won't. People who try to build upon the foundation should be careful as to how they build because if it isn't scripture, it will just be a wind of doctrine that won't stand parallel to God's plumbline.

My reply:

Well put, Sothenes.

"Spirituality" does not always mean that a person is a true Christian. Jesus told us what is necessary. "You must be born again." It is only then that a person receives the Holy Spirit of God indwelling the soul. And, the work of the Holy Spirit is to lead them in understanding Scripture, as well as sanctifying them towards God's will in their lives.

The term "Christian" is misused all the time. When it is used to describe the true meaning of the label, it means "Christ in one." That only happens when the gospel message is heard, believed, and received through being born again in Christ. It cannot be faked. Perhaps some people will be fooled for a time, but God knows who is genuine. He will one day separate the "sheep from the goats" (meaning, true believers from false converts). Meanwhile, we will still evangelize, even with with the "goats" in our midst.

What you wrote here is so true:

"If we make something other than God the object of our desires, the major themes will be idolatry"

That object of idolatry can be anything. When people lift things, other people, or desires above their worship for God, it is then that they can easily decend into idolatry. Many are so self-deceived in this way, that the only hope for returning to God is to repent, confess, and ask for forgiveness for their sin. Those who love their idols don't want to do the very thing that can save them from deception. Giving up their pride of self and humbling themselves before the Lord is anathema to them.

God's Word even tells us how far their hardness of heart and refusal to repent and turn to the Lord will go; even during the Great Tribulation of the end times:

Rev 6:12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;


Rev 6:13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.


Rev 6:14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.


Rev 6:15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;


Rev 6:16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:


Rev 6:17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

How utterly foolish it is for people to think they can hide from God! How totally deceived and reprobate they will be to want to commit suicide rather than repent and be saved.

Where else in Scripture have we heard someone tell a believer to just "curse God and die?"

Job 2:9 Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die.

Nowhere in Scripture will you find someone telling another to "curse God and live."

Why?

Because we all have the need, if not just the desire, to be reconciled with God and live. To know and love God, and be loved by Him, despite our foolish sinfulness, is the ultimate desire of our souls. Nothing else in this world can ever satisfy our need for God.

Oh yes. Sin may be "pleasurable for a time," but ultimately we find ourselves to be "utterly wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked" because sin leads to nothing but death. Allowing sin to consume us and keep us in darkness and deception is the ultimate goal of the enemy of our souls. What he offers us is absolutely nothing but evil, sin, deception and death.

When compared to the agape love, mercy, grace and eternal life with God through Christ's gospel message, we see how ridiculous it is to be fooled by the "blue pill" of Satan.

Rev 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

Jesus' own words in Revelation 3:18-22 describe the truth (can be similarly described as being like the "red pill" of reality in the movie, The Matrix):

Rev 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.


Rev 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.


Rev 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.


Rev 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.


Rev 3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Exposing the Dogma of Darwinism

My daughter and her roommate are taking a college biology course together this semester. Both are Christians and her roommate, in particular, became upset when the professor bashed any and all who believe that our world has been intelligently designed. In fact, the professor apparently complained about the structure of the eye as being indisputable "evidence" against the concept of design. She questions, "how can we believe that the eye is designed when it has a "blind spot?"

Anyone want to take a crack against that silly reasoning? Hint: just do a search on "eye blind spot" and you will gain your answer instantly.

My daughter's roommate knows that I have been critical of Darwinism's extrapolated theory of macro-evolution for several years now. She asked for information and links about Intelligent Design.

I am thrilled to read today that Actor-commentator Ben Stein stars in 'Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed!' which is a major film that battles and exposes the elitist strangehold of Darwinism proponents upon scientific inquiry and hypotheses.

Excerpts:

That's right. Evolution – and the explosive debate over its virtual monopoly on America's public school classrooms – is the focus of the film "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed."

In the movie, Stein, who is also a lawyer, economist, former presidential speechwriter, author and social commentator, is stunned by what he discovers – an elitist scientific establishment that has traded in its skepticism for dogma. Even worse, say publicists for the feature film, "along the way, Stein uncovers a long line of biologists, astronomers, chemists and philosophers who have had their reputations destroyed and their careers ruined by a scientific establishment that allows absolutely no dissent from Charles Darwin's theory of random mutation and natural selection."

"Expelled" documents how teachers and scientists alike are being ridiculed daily, denied tenure and even fired believing there is evidence of "design" in nature and challenging the current orthodoxy that life is entirely a result of random chance.

For example, Stein meets Richard Sternberg, a double Ph.D. biologist who allowed a peer-reviewed research paper describing the evidence for intelligence in the universe to be published in the scientific journal Proceedings. Shortly after publication, officials from the National Center for Science Education and the Smithsonian Institution, where Sternberg was a research fellow, began a coordinated smear-and-intimidation campaign to get the promising young scientist fired. The attack on scientific freedom was so egregious that it prompted a congressional investigation.

Yep...it's certainly about time that, as the article accurately states, the "elitist scientific establishment that has traded in its skepticism for dogma" gets exposed!

HT: WorldNetDaily

Favorite Bible Verses of the Day

Phl 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

Phl 4:5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

Phl 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

Phl 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Phl 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.

Philippians 4:4-8 NKJV

Sadists Mock Jesus

I hate to even link to the photo of this despicable, evil, blasphemous poster, but I think that people need to see the ugliness, depravity, and evil sickness that is inherent with grotesque, Sodom and Gomorrah groups like this one.

The lost know no bounds in their disgusting perversion and reprobate depravity.

Concerned Women for America article excerpt:

“‘Gay’ activists disingenuously call Christians ‘haters’ and ‘homophobes’ for honoring the Bible, but then lash out in this hateful manner toward the very people they accuse. In their version of The Last Supper, Christ, Who gave His life for our sins, is despicably replaced by sin itself as the object of worship.

HT: Americans for Truth

Concerned Women for America

Columbia University Audience Laughed

This is a much more horrendously sad and serious post about evil Ahmadinejad (a.k.a. I'm-in-a-jihad). I present to my readers here much more dire and heartbreaking reasons why the Madman should never have been allowed to appear and speak at Columbia University.

The reason I gave this post the title that I did was because I am hoping that when students, professors, and leaders at Columbia U. do a search for content about their university, they will see this post.

At first, I didn't want to read this article or look at these photos. But in order to see the brutal acts of this despicable dictator, you must read the article and look at the photos. You may need to scroll down at the second link and then click on the numbers, one by one. Go through them all. Go all the way to the very end. See the horror of reality in Iran.

After you look at the photos, think back about how the Columbia U. audience burst into laughter when I'm-in-a-jihad claimed, "there are no homosexuals in Iran. We do not have this phenomenon."

Then, think about how a liberal university like Columbia could ever have invited and allowed a monster like that to speak to those college students.

What a horribly evil dictator Ahmadinejad is!

It still, just sickens me no end that he was given a platform to spew his lies in our country.

Also, think about all of our brave men and women fighting in Iraq who have been wounded and/or killed by Iranian weaponry and insurgents.

Our country lost some of it's integrity by allowing that Iranazi to speak at that Columbia U. event.

Ahmadinejad misused our U.S. freedoms that we enjoy here. Everything about him is a lie. Everything he said was mostly based on lies. He refused to answer the tough questions given to him. We all can see the evil in his disgusting "smile" and smug demeanor.

Allowing him to speak at that university ultimately caused an unwelcome foreigner to abuse our country's Constitutional freedom of speech rights. It was truly ugly. The Founding Fathers would have been absolutely horrified. I'm horrified. We all should be so ashamed that we let this Iranazi thug get away with it.

The Iranian people must think we are crazy over here...

And, I wouldn't blame them one bit for thinking that way.

Iran Does Far Worse Than Ignore Gays, Critics Say

Warning! Graphic content. Teenagers hanged

Horrified yet?

Another Lesson Learned

If you have been reading this blog for quite a while, you may remember a previous post called A Dilemma At The Checkout Stand.

How ironic that almost two years later, the same issue came up again. Yes. It happened today at the same grocery store in the same checkout stand.

I don't usually shop there much. It used to be a kind of run down, very small store that didn't carry many of the products and brands that I like to buy. Plus, I changed dry cleaners so I usually go to a different grocery store in the same strip mall. But today, I needed to go to the bank and decided to pick up a few items at the store near the bank. I was actually very pleasantly surprised to see that the old store had been completely renovated and it looked really nice.

As I was loading my groceries on the conveyor belt, I noticed the huge pink ribbon placard attached to the cash register. I thought, "Oh no. Not again!" I was ready with my "no" answer if the checkstand lady asked me, "Would you like to donate..." But then, I thought that perhaps I should ask which breast cancer charity they were collecting donations for.

The pleasant lady asked, "Would you like to donate for breast cancer awareness?"

I said, "It depends on which organization the donations are going to. If it is the Susan G. Komen foundation, then my answer will have to be no."

She said it was for "Why Me."

I said, "Oh I'm so glad. You see, I found out that the Komen Foundation funnels money to side groups that support abortion. I cannot, in good conscience, support such a thing."

I like to know where my donation money is going.

[If you read the link above, even though the former breast cancer foundation sponsored by the store two years ago was a different one, it wasn't the Komen Foundation back then, either.]

The lady replied, "We changed foundations a while ago. I can understand that you want your money to go to a specific purpose and for what the charity claims it is for."

I was so glad to hear that! But she went on.

"We have people asking the same thing all the time."

Perhaps many others have become increasingly aware of the fact that some charitable foundations are guilty of funneling money to abberant side organizations. It is terrible to realize that oftentimes, a donor might unknowingly be sending money into a charitable organization's affiliate that conducts the awful practice of killing unborn babies. Abortion is the American Holocaust in action; a tragic sin that any Christian pro-life advocate would never want to support.

Since I wasn't very familiar with this particular organization, I looked it up online when I returned home. It is actually named "Y Me" (which explains the upside-down pink ribbon symbol).

I did some research at their website, but didn't find any evidence that they "funnel" their funds to abortion providers or facilities. However, I was disappointed to read one of their position papers that claims that:

Position
Based on a review of available data and scientific community agreement, Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization concludes that induced or spontaneous abortions have no overall effect on the risk of breast cancer. Y-ME, therefore, does not support any public policy that suggests the existence of such a link.

So, it would appear that it is not a pro-life organization.

This tells me that I need to be even more diligent when asking questions about charities. Next time, if I'm not absolutely sure that a charitable organization is pro-life, I will not donate. Period.

*******
Update:
According to Charity Navigator, it appears that Y-Me does not donate to any affiliates. That's good news.

But the CEO apparently makes a ton of money...

Don't like that very much. A huge amount goes to "expenses," too.

Just goes to show that I need to do the research beforehand, and find charities that aren't so involved with profit and don't soak up so much money and use it for "administrative" expenses and purposes.

Father of Columbine victim: 'Life taken in Godless school'

Rohrbough: "My son in a Nation that legalized the killing of innocent children in the womb; in a County where authorities would lie and cover up what they knew and what they did; in a Godless school system your life was taken ... Dan I'm sorry."

read more | digg story

Excerpt:

Rohrbough, in 2006 when a lone gunman attacked and killed students at an Amish school, said there are no limits on such tragedies because of the nation's choice to eliminate God from schools and public life.

"When my son Dan was murdered on the sidewalk at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999, I hoped that would be the last school shooting. Since that day, I’ve tried to answer the question, 'Why did this happen?'" he told CBS at the time.

"This country is in a moral free-fall. For over two generations, the public school system has taught in a moral vacuum, expelling God from the school and from the government, replacing him with evolution, where the strong kill the weak, without moral consequences and life has no inherent value.

"We teach there are no absolutes, no right or wrong. And I assure you the murder of innocent children is always wrong, including by abortion. Abortion has diminished the value of children.

"Suicide has become an acceptable action and has further emboldened these criminals. And we are seeing an epidemic increase in murder-suicide attacks on our children.

"Our children have become a target of terrorists from within the United States," he said.

Ahmadinejad Has No Functioning, Rational Mind

Tailrank has compiled quite an assortment of blogposts about Ahmadinejad being condemned by the host of Columbia University's forum yesterday.

Columbia president said Ahmadinejad acts like a ‘petty and cruel dictator’

Ahmadinejad doesn't just act like a 'petty and cruel dictator,' he most definitely is a petty and cruel dictator!!

Norm's View has some good points:

Do you think this jerk understood the reality of what Lee Bollinger said? I doubt it. To understand this you must have a functioning rational mind that is completely open to truth. This Ahmadinejad does not have.

He held a forum a while back with Holocaust deniers. What kind of an ignorant jerk tries to deny or change the most documented mass murder in history?

And he wants nuclear weapons? And says that Israel should just disappear.

He said in his speech today that his people and countrymen are misunderstood.

Bollinger's statements were not about the Iranian people or country. He directed his comments at and about Ahmadinejad.

Take responsibility yourself Ahmadinejad. You are the reason that your country is going downhill.

I guess that's whats good about being a butcherous dictator, you don't have to worry about anybody voting you out, because you are a murderous monster, who actually executes some children along with innocent adults every year for nothing more than differing opinions.

Ahmadinejad said there are no homosexuals in his country, and the audience burst out laughing.

I say put the stupid jerk in a rowboat and let him row back to Iran. Make sure it has a slow leak.

Am I wrong? I don't think so.

Free speech for people like him should be rethought.

This is Norm's view.

So, Ahmadinejad is not only a "holocaust denier," he's apparently also a "homosexual denier."

This didn't sit well with the audience. It was the only time that the most "boos" were heard. However, the homosexual denying comment generated a lot of laughter.

Some news reporters are even trying to put a bit of a spin on the "there are no homosexuals in Iran" comment by stating "there aren't many homosexuals in Iran."

After everyone stopped laughing, do you think they realized that the reason might be because when found out, they are systematically executed?

If anyone was truly brave on that panel, such a follow-up question would have been quite sobering and sad.

But I'm-in-a-jihad would have lied his way out of answering that question, too.

It's amazing to me that an American University would invite a brutal dictator to speak. All the monster did was lie!!

I went to the link above which cites the fact that the Iranian government executes people not only for real crimes, but also for any perceived morality violations.

Iran: Two More Executions for Homosexual Conduct

“These abuses have created an atmosphere of terror for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people throughout Iran,” said Stern. “But arrest, torture and execution are not limited to gays and lesbians. Any group of people deemed ‘immoral’ becomes subject to state-sanctioned persecution and even murder.”

In Iran, executions and lashings are regular means of punishment for a broad range of crimes, not merely same-sex acts. Judges often accept coerced confessions, and security officials routinely deny defendants access to counsel. Late last year, the Iranian judiciary, which has been at the center of many reported human rights violations, formed the Special Protection Division, a new institution that empowers volunteers to police moral crimes in neighborhoods, mosques, offices and any place where people gather. The Special Protection Division is an intrusive mechanism of surveillance that promotes prosecution of citizens for behavior in their private domain.

*******

Update @ 7:48 a.m. -

LGF has the evidence that "The Spin Starts in Iran"

Update @ 10:38 a.m. -

LGF: Columbia's Squalid Mistake

Excerpt:

And Columbia’s event, like the 1933 Oxford resolution, sent (to quote Churchill again) a “very disquieting and disgusting message” to friends and enemies alike.

Many American’s won’t see that; their blindness goes to the heart of the “red-blue” divide in our country - much like the one in ‘30s Britain that split men like Churchill from the exponents of appeasing Europe’s dictators.

Yep...

Columbia Hosts the Iranian LIAR!

This morning, the real truth finally came out.In a Fox News interview with former ambassador Marc Ginsburg, much more intricate details were revealed about why Columbia University would invite that despicable I'm in a jihad president of Iran and give a terrorist like him a platform to spew more of his lies and dangerous, hateful rhetoric.

Former Ambassador Marc Ginsberg appeared on Fox News today, Monday, Sept. 24, 2007. I am currently actively looking for the op-ed piece that he mentioned during the interview in which he wrote about the formidable relationship between a Columbia U. alumnus (I think) and another "person" who has a long history of ties with Iran.

With the threat that Iran is gaining nuclear weapons; the regular pronouncements of the Iranian Madman who wishes to "wipe Israel off the map" and incites crowds in his country to chant "death to America," it is beyond belief that an American university would even want such a creep to appear on campus.

I have so many questions! When Mr. Ginsberg shared the information of the "connections" during his appearance on Fox News, it was then that I realized how many more details need to come out about the Columbia U. president's decision to host the Iranian dictator. I wondered, what could possibly be the reason that this CU president would go through with this, especially in light of all the protests of so many Americans?

I predict that when Mr. Ginsberg's informative article is widely shared (hopefully the MSM will get their heads out of the sand and report it!), many U.S. citizens (except, of course, the Kos Kidz) will be led to wonder why aren't American traitors like these being investigated?

I just knew that there had to be more to this story than what the MSM was reporting.

I tuned in to the interview session a bit too late to write down where the essay was printed/posted, or any of the names and exact details. But when I find either a link to the Fox video or a link to Mr. Ginsberg's essay, I will post it here. [Any readers who locate the essay, please post a link in the comment section.]

*******
Update: Found some information via Michele Malkin's blog about a former Columbia student's release from an Iranian prison just days before Iminajihad is to appear at the university.

*******

Thank you.

Meanwhile, we see how outraged people are over this university president's absolutely ignorant decision to host this evil man.

Protestors gather ahead of Iranian president's speech

Hot Air

Fox News

LGF cites Monday Protests

Journalist, Columbia graduate to rip diploma over Iran prez

Angry protests await Iminajihad in NYC

Integrity of freedom died a little

Remember, he's president I'm-in-a-jihad

So much for "free speech" in the Iranian dictator's country! Notice the censorship:

Iran "seals off" website

Excerpt:

Although Iran says it allows free speech, journalists say they have to tread carefully between a growing number of “red lines” to avoid closure. Iran’s culture minister in July said there were signs of a “creeping coup” in the country’s press.

*******
Update @ 8:46 a.m.

Good Idea!

Boycott Ahmadinejad

Quote:

Let the Iranian president (and the Columbia president) speak to a sea of empty seats.

- William Kristol

*****
Update: @ 11:10

WOW!! Bollinger absolutely SLAMS Ahmadinejad...and he no like it!

Ha ha ha ha haaaaaaa!!!!

If you missed it, Watch the video here.

The Real Meaning of being 'Born Again.' Turn to God from self (repentance).

God is so eager to establish a personal, loving relationship with you that He has already made all the arrangements. He is patiently and lovingly waiting for you to respond to His invitation. You can receive forgiveness of your sins and assurance of eternal life through faith in His in His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. What's your decision?

read more digg story

It is interesting to note that when submitting a story at the Digg site, there are no categories listed for "faith," or "religion," or "God topics."

Usually, I don't get the chance to submit a story at Digg because someone else has always "beaten me to the punch" and already submitted it. But this time, it was a story that did not have any "diggs" yet, so I was able to be the first.

When it came time to give the post a label, there wasn't any description in the categories that appeared to fit. Then, I saw "world news" was a choice and decided that would certainly work. In fact, no other story in history has ever impacted the world quite as enormously than the life, ministry, sacrificial death, and resurrection to life of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

I thought that Pastor Greg Laurie did a fine job in his article explaining what it really means to be "born again" in Christ.

In the conclusion of the essay, Pastor Laurie wrote:

"That whosoever believes in Him ..." To believe means to trust in, to cling to, to rely on Jesus for your forgiveness and personal salvation. And what's the result of believing in Him?

The result is that those who believe "should not perish but have everlasting life." That is, faith in Jesus is the gift of eternal life. Among other things, it is the gift of knowing that you will go to heaven when you die (Romans 6:23).

But it's not enough to have someone offer you a gift. You must accept it. Of course you could reject the gift, but you can't be neutral about the offer or say that you can't decide. This is a YES or NO proposition.

You might say, "But I'm not the 'religious type.'" That's OK, because God isn't looking for religious people, but sinful people like you and me that need some good news in a world gone bad.

Can anyone ever say that this fallen world that we now live in isn't rife with sin and "gone bad?"

No.

And Biblical Christianity has the only "antidote for what ails us."

The only way to be rescued from this sinful, fallen world is to be born again in Christ.

Man's temporal efforts in this area can help halt the downward spiral for a season. However, the God of the Bible informs us of what is to come through the prophecies in Scripture.

Placing our trust in finite, fallen people and their ideas, governments, and choices for what constitutes as "educational priorities" leaves much to be desired; to say the least!

Those who hold fast to the Lord Jesus and know His Truth are set free from the bondage of sin and corruption that is in this world.

Jesus warned us:

Jhn 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

The Bible clearly tells us that Jesus' kingdom "is not of this world."

Jhn 8:23 And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.

Jhn 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.


He also told us that knowing Him and His gospel of salvation through being born again is knowing the Truth.

Jhn 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

And, the Truth will set us free.

Jhn 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

There is such a thing as absolute Truth. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by Him!

Jhn 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Take a look at this interesting article called, A modern American fairy tale written by Pat Boone. We can sadly see how our current liberal left educators have taken us down a spiraling, out of control cesspool of sin rather than focusing on the academic knowledge needed for our children to succeed in this world.

People who do not know God are guilty of leading our children astray. They promote sin like there is nothing to be concerned about. Well, they are wrong. Dead wrong! The Bible is filled with warnings, admonitions and pleadings to turn (repent) from sin! In fact, the term "sin" occurs 448 times in 389 verses in the King James Bible! I'd say that God must be quite concerned about sin! It's mentioned enough times in His Word to rank far up in consideration on the scales of justice.

Yet, sadly, there is much preaching going on today in these post-modern, "ignore the Bible" type churches that do not hold to the opinion that the Bible is true, absolute and God's Holy Word. If you are currently in one of them, my advice is to get out...and fast!

A good way to do a "check up" on the health of any, particular Christian church might be to view their "beliefs" list. The following is a good one. However, it does not include any denominational traditions and tenets. But it could serve as a valuable "plumb line" in determining where your church stands regarding the true gospel of Christ, true Christian faith, salvation, adherance to Jesus Christ, and God's Word, the Bible.

What We Believe...

* About God:

God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.

Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 3:22; Psalms 90:2; Matthew 28:19; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14

*About Humankind:

We are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like him in character. We are the supreme object of God's creation. Although humankind has tremendous potential for good, we are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God, called "sin." This attitude separates us from God.

Genesis 1:27; Psalms 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1,2

*About Eternity:

We all were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally in union with God through forgiveness and salvation or separated from God by sin. Heaven is the place of eternal union and eternal life with God. The eternal separation from God is called Hell.

John 3:16; Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:15; (Hell)

Matthew 25:41; Revelation 21:27 (Heaven)

* About Jesus Christ:

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

*About Salvation:

Salvation is a gift from God to mankind. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God's offer of forgiveness can we be saved from sin's penalty. Eternal life begins the moment we receive Jesus Christ into our life by faith.

Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8,9; John 14:6; John 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1

*About The Holy Spirit:

The Holy Spirit is equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make mankind aware of our need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual gifts, and guidance in doing what is right. The Christian's responsibility is to seek and to live under His will daily.

2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13; John 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:1

*About Spiritual Gifts:

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are available to each believer in Jesus Christ, allowing for greater intimacy with God and power for accomplishing His work in our world today. We believe that God, the giver of gifts, gives severally as he wills, and with emphasis on growing maturity in Jesus Christ. These gifts are revealed and then can be used for His purposes and powerfully influence and affect our world for Christ.

1Corinthians 12:4-7, 11, 17, 29, 30

*About The Bible:

The Bible is God's Word to all mankind. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is truth without any mixture of error.

2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalms 12:6; 119:105, 160; Proverbs 30:5

Jesus asks each and every person who has ever lived, "Who do you say that I am?" Luke 9:20

Pastor Laurie ends his essay with two statements plus the most important question that you will ever answer in your lifetime:

The gift is on the table.

The next move is yours.

Would you like to be born again?

*******
HT: World Net Daily

Blue Letter Bible

A DREAM? More Like A Nightmare!

Important message from Concerned Women for America:

Dear Friends,

Please call your Senators today at 202-224-3121!

The Senate is now considering the Department of Defense (DOD) Authorization bill. Since this bill is something that must pass, it is being used as a Christmas tree, where many Senators hang their decorations (amendments), and which, in many cases, have nothing to do with defense or our national security.

On Thursday, Senator Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) introduced the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act (DREAM) as an amendment to the defense authorization bill. This legislation is a nightmare that extends amnesty to the millions of illegal aliens who entered the United States before the age of 16. The alien can then use his newly acquired status to seek green cards for the parents who brought him in illegally in the first place. This amendment has nothing to do with border security which absolutely must be our top priority. Please call your Senators at 202-224-3121 and urge them to oppose this amendment - it is not a DREAM for the U.S.

The Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act has been reintroduced as an amendment by Senators Ted Kennedy (D-Massachusetts) and Gordon Smith (R-Oregon). In his explanation on why this legislation must be attached to the DOD Authorization, Senator Kennedy claimed that "hate crimes" are acts of domestic terrorism. Senator Kennedy's assertion flies in the face of the most recent FBI Uniform Crime Report that shows bias-motivated crimes are on the decrease. Please call your Senators at 202-224-3121 and ask them to oppose this "hate crimes" amendment.

Action:

Please call your Senators (202-224-3121) and urge them to oppose the Dream Act amendment - it is not a DREAM for the U.S.
Please call your Senators (202-224-3121) and ask them to oppose the dangerous "hate crimes" amendment.
For additional information please read: H.R. 1592: An Assault on Equal Protection

Sincerely,

Mrs. Beverly LaHaye
Founder and Chairman

*******
Copy of article at above link:

H.R. 1592: An Assault on Equal Protection
Shari Rendall
April 26, 2007


The 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution affords equal protection to every citizen under the law. This legislation would treat victims differently based on their class. Such laws do not equally protect all citizens.


The proposed categories of “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” in H.R. 1592 create special classes of victims based solely upon behavioral identification with a group of people. This means that a perpetrator could receive a harsher punishment for assaulting a homosexual man than for the same violent crime committed against a child.


“Hate crimes” laws politicize criminal law, leading to pressure on police and prosecutors to devote more of their limited resources to some cases at the expense of other crime victims’ cases. They also vastly expand the power and jurisdiction of the federal government to intervene in local law enforcement matters.


While the intent-based evaluation for murder examines intent and treats all criminals equally, “hate crimes” laws require an evaluation of a criminal’s thoughts and treats victims differently based on their identity. According to the FBI’s annual report on “hate crimes,” identifying feelings is beyond law enforcement’s ability and jurisdiction. The determination of thoughts and feelings involves enormous possibility of error. To maintain order and justice, government must judge actions — not feelings.


The most recent FBI Uniform Crime Report shows that bias-motivated crimes are on the decline. In fact, less than 17% of all law enforcement agencies reported a single hate crime in 2005. A total of only 1,171 “sexual orientation” bias crimes were reported (one-half of which were name-calling, pushing or shoving) — representing the largest and most consistent decrease of all bias-motivated crimes.


State criminal statutes already prosecute “hate crimes” to the fullest extent of their laws. In other words, existing laws are already working.

Bow to the "god" of homosexuality?

If this doesn't convince you of the dangers of "ENDA" and "hate crimes laws," nothing will!!

Gay-Activist Suit Prompts Loss of Church Group's Tax Exemption
by Stephen Adams, associate editor

Illustrates how "non-discrimination" language can be used to hammer churches, religious groups.

Two lesbian couples who were denied permission to use a church group's seaside pavilion for civil-union ceremonies have persuaded New Jersey officials to punish the group through revocation of its tax-exempt status. Proposed federal legislation could accelerate that trend.

The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association owns the boardwalk pavilion that is a popular spot for weddings.

A spokesman for the gay-activist group Garden State Equality said the state didn't go far enough, and may ask a court to revoke the tax exemption for all of the boardwalk and land, which the Methodist group has owned since 1870, according to The Associated Press.

As it stands, the change may cost the Methodists an estimated $175 a year for just the pavilion. But both sides say it’s about the principle.
“We’re happy, but there’s a lot more happiness to be had,” said Steve Goldstein, chairman of Garden State Equality.

The Methodists say they are following deeply held religious beliefs laid out in their Church Book of Discipline.

Scott Hoffman, Ocean Grove chief administrative officer, told the entire property is dedicated to the “perpetual worship of Jesus Christ.” But he said the state thinks “because it’s on a boardwalk that it’s not really a church, so they’re defining what a church is, and I think everybody needs to pay attention to that.” Brian Raum, senior legal counsel for the Alliance Defense Fund, said it’s the same problem posed by the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) now being considered in Congress. It would grant special protections to homosexuals in the workplace.

“What’s happening in Ocean Grove is a perfect example of the dangers which will be at issue if ENDA passes,” Raum said.

Bruce Hausknecht, judicial analyst for Focus on the Family Action, explained that tax exemptions are not protected under the First Amendment.

“The state, local and federal governments all grant various tax exemptions to those organizations, because historically they serve a vital public function in the community that benefits all in the community, not just the members of a particular church,” he said. “Since the government giveth, the government can taketh away those exemptions.”

Hausknecht said there are many efforts in play to remove tax-exempt status from all religious groups.

“By enacting ENDAs and hate-crime laws, civil-union and domestic-partnership laws, various states — and our federal government as well — are again creating ‘public policy,’ this time favoring homosexual behavior,” he said. “When the liberals are in control, it will not take long for tax exemptions for churches and religious entities to be revoked if they will not bow down to the god of homosexuality. Churches especially should heed the clear warning of this Ocean Grove situation. If you're going to stand for righteousness in the area of biblical sexuality, you may have to pay the price.”

© 2007 Focus on the Family Action, Inc. CitizenLink is a registered trademark of Focus on the Family Action, Inc.
"Focus on the Family" is a registered trademark of Focus on the Family,
a California non-profit religious corporation, used pursuant to a license agreement.
All rights reserved. International copyright secured. (866)655-4545.

*******
On a related issue, the Liberal left lunatics of Congress are still trying to force the "hate crimes" bill through. Thank God for President Bush's pledge to veto it!!

*******

Update: September 20, 2007

Presenting: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

The Good!!

Marriage Matters-Here and Abroad

We were thankful this week to learn that marriage was protected in Maryland by that state's highest court. On Tuesday the Maryland Supreme Court upheld state law defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman. The court ruled that the state's marriage laws are not discriminatory and also ruled that procreation is a rational basis for the legislature to protect marriage. This is a great victory for marriage and family!

Here in California we are still waiting on our Supreme Court to decide the validity of Proposition 22, the ballot initiative defining marriage as between one man and one woman only.

On Wednesday the San Diego City Council voted to officially support homosexual marriage. The 5-3 decision will result in the city submitting an official statement to the California Supreme Court for its consideration.

Although Mayor Jerry Sanders has pledged to veto the city council's action, only a simple majority is required to override the mayor's veto. Councilwoman Toni Atkins, the author of the measure to lend San Diego's official support for homosexual marriage, expects "the votes to hold."

The mayor's office has noted that 62 percent of San Diego city voters backed Proposition 22 when it was decided in 2000. In other words, the city council went directly against the wishes of its constituents in stating its support of homosexual marriage. The city of San Diego will likely join other cities-Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Jose, and Santa Cruz-in submitting a friend-of-the-court brief to the California Supreme Court, urging the court to rule against Proposition 22.

Capitol Resource Institute strongly supports marriage between one man and one woman because that is what is in the best interests of families and children. Strong marriages mean strong families. Strong families mean strong communities. The family unit must be strengthened by our laws and policies, not undermined. To read a recent article on why marriage matters to kids, go here.

The Bad and The Ugly:

HR 2015-ENDA Law to Enact Special Rights for Homosexual Employees

A proposed federal law could force church daycare centers, conservative radio shows, and others to hire homosexual and bisexual applicants.

It could also allow cross-dressing men to use women's restrooms. HR 2015 aims for "comprehensive Federal prohibition" of discrimination that is based on sexual orientation and gender identity. While it provides a narrow religious exemption, this fails to help many religious organizations. In practice, HR 2015 restricts the freedom to make hiring decisions that are consistent with private beliefs.

Called the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), HR 2015 gives sexual orientation and gender identity a protected status. Sexual orientation means "homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality." Gender identity indicates transexuality. It includes a person's "gender-related identity, appearance, or mannerisms or other gender-related characteristics," which may be different from the person's "designated sex at birth." These sexual lifestyles -- homo, bi, and transexuality -- are historically unaccepted in the United States. If passed, ENDA would add them to race, sex, age, and other traits that enjoy special protection in the employment process. On the basis of "equal rights," ENDA impacts hiring decisions, shared facilities, and dress and grooming in the workplace. Many people may not realize it but EDNA would allow transgender and cross-dressing men to use women's restrooms. The only access denied them would be "shared shower or dressing facilities in which being seen fully unclothed is unavoidable." Employers could not discriminate against men or women who dress as the opposite sex, provided that notice of a gender change is given.

This bill only extends religious exemptions to two categories. First, it exempts groups whose "primary purpose" is religious ritual, religious teaching, or the spreading of religious belief. Churches fall under this category. Second, it exempts employee positions whose "primary duties" are explicitly religious. School chaplains would qualify, but not math teachers or basketball coaches. These "religious exemptions" neglect to exempt many organizations.

ENDA restricts many groups whose missions spring from religious belief. Beyond doctrinal teaching, faith is expressed through feeding the homeless, tutoring kids after school, and thousands of activities that benefit communities. Whether religious or not, all private employers should have the freedom to hire applicants who share their beliefs, including in fundamental issues like gender identity and homosexual conduct. If Congress is truly concerned about "comprehensive" ending of discrimination, it will broaden its religious exemptions.

In a sample letter to Congress, the ACLU urges passage of ENDA, because "we all have a right to earn a living and take care of our family, regardless of our sexual orientation or gender identity." This is not the issue. There is no evidence that homosexuals suffer systematic job discrimination, as the Family Research Council observes. The real issue is whether private entities can make their own hiring decisions. HR 2015 could impact any group with 15 or more employees, from religious charities to the Boy Scouts. HR 2015 must be stopped.

Please contact your Congressman today and urge him/her to vote "NO" on HR 2015.

To contact your Congressman online, go here.

Christian School's Conscience vs. Lesbian Expression

The right of Christian businesses and organizations to make their own association decisions is being increasingly threatened. Recently two girls were suspended from California Lutheran High School, located in Wildomar, California, for engaging in homosexual behavior, including but not limited to posing for pictures in sexually suggestive positions. The students' behavior was in express violation of the school's code of conduct.

Despite the school's biblically-based and clearly stated standards on extramarital sexual conduct, the girls' parents are suing the school, arguing that the school has violated "California's sexual orientation and anti-discrimination laws." The girls' parents were undoubtedly aware of the school's policies, but chose to send their daughters there anyway.

"Nationwide, we have more than 200 cases, most of which deal with Christians being shut down in the public square or religious organizations being forced to violate their own beliefs and standards," said Greg Scott, spokesman at the Alliance Defense Fund. "

It is essential in a free society that faith-based schools have the right to make disciplinary and admission decisions based on their sincerely held religious beliefs," said Karen England, executive director of Capitol Resource Institute. "If that right is taken away, what good is the First Amendment?"

Church Banned from Using Own Property in San Leandro

Faith Fellowship church in San Leandro was all set to move into its new building when things came to a screeching halt. In July the San Leandro City Council denied the church a zoning change necessary to move into an industrial building the church had already purchased. The building had been vacant for many months before being purchased by the church.

When the church sought an injunction to be able to proceed, a federal court judge denied it, stating that the church had not yet presented enough evidence of "immediate harm" suffered at its current location. The ruling came despite the fact that the church is bursting at the seams with three services and inadequate parking for church attendees.

Rather than seeing the value of a vibrant church in its community-Faith Fellowship has numerous outreach programs to citizens, including teenagers who might otherwise be on the streets-San Leandro has made the church the enemy by making it impossible for the church to use its own property.

To read more about Faith Fellowship's attempts to use its own property, and the opposition it has faced from the city, go to the church's website. http://www.faith-fellowship.us

HT: Capitol Resource Institute

"Emergent Church" Emerging Into Your Church?

Found an excellent essay today which asks the question, How to Know When the Emerging Church Shows Signs of Emerging in Your Church.

It is no coincidence that I saw some of the exact things mentioned in that article at my former church. It was really sad when our family finally realized that what we saw as "going wrong" at the church has turned out to have happened as a result of the Emergent church movement that has been sweeping the country.

Our family recognized that something wasn't quite right with the "new direction" that our former church decided to take. Ironically, it appears to have started to happen during a time when we thought that sound, biblical doctrine would absolutely continue. It was during the year when Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ came out and the book, The Purpose-Driven Life was chosen as a church-wide Bible study topic. Shortly thereafter, our former church tried to copy the methods and techniques of the "Purpose" book author's church. As a result, they made some unwarranted and drastic changes regarding how a previous land purchase was to be used. It was our "uh oh" moment. It only spiraled downward from there.

I don't want to bash our former church. I have so many great and wonderful cherished memories from there. However, something in each of our spirits was telling us not to stay. Must have been the Holy Spirit's leading.

Back to the essay. The following excerpt briefly explains why the "Emergent church" direction is not the correct way to go and why your "spiritual antenna" should go up if your particular church is showing signs of skewing off in the wrong direction.

One of the main indicators that something has changed can be seen in the way the future is perceived. Rather than urgently proclaiming the gospel according to the Scriptures and believing the time to do so is short, the emphasis has now shifted. No longer are “signs of the times” significant. The battle cry is very different. A major emphasis among evangelicals is the idea that the world can be radically improved through social programs.

This concept, while on the surface may sound very good, has some serious biblical implications. According to the Scriptures, there will be no kingdom of God until the King arrives. All the human effort man can muster up will fall short of bringing utopia. In fact, according to the Scriptures, fallen man will lead us further down the road to a society of despair and lawlessness just like it was in the days of Noah.

Thus, this purpose-driven view of establishing global utopia may be a plan, but it is “driven” by humanistic reasoning and not led by the Holy Spirit. While it is of course good to do good unto others, all the goodness that we can do will not be good enough. Pastors and church leaders who get involved in such man-driven programs can usually be identified by certain characteristics:

* Sound biblical doctrine is dangerous and divisive, and the experiential (i.e.,mystical) is given a greater role than doctrine.
* Bible prophecy is no longer taught and is considered a waste of time
* Israel becomes less and less important and has no biblical significance
* Eventually the promises for Israel are applied to the church and not Israel (Replacement Theology).
* Bible study is replaced by studying someone’s book and his methods
* Church health is evaluated on the quantity of people who attend.
* The truth of God’s Word becomes less and less important
* God’s Word, especially concepts like hell, sin and repentance, is eventually downplayed so the unbeliever is not offended.

Spiritual Formation and Transformation

Much of what I have described provides the formula for a dumbing-down of Christianity that paves the way for an apostasy that will only intensify in the future. This trend away from the authority of God’s Word to the reinvented form of Christianity has overcome all evangelical denominations like an avalanche. Few Bible teachers saw this avalanche coming. Now that it is underway, few realize it has even happened.

(bold mine)

Some may have the attitude, "Ah...it's not so bad." But the following quotes tell us how important proper discernment is today. The closer we get to the end times (which history and Biblical prophecy indicate that it's getting closer and closer each and every day... though, of course, we know not the hour nor day) the more important knowing the absolute truth as revealed in the Scriptures will be to avoid heresy and apostasy.

“A half-truth masquerading as the whole truth becomes a complete untruth.” - J. I. Packer

“Discernment is not a matter of simply telling the difference between right and wrong; rather, it is telling the difference between right and almost right.”

–Charles Spurgeon

I would encourage you to read the entire essay at the link above.

In conclusion, the author shares the warning signs:

Signs the Emerging Church is Emerging

There are specific warning signs that are symptomatic that a church may be headed down the emergent/contemplative road. In some cases a pastor may not be aware that he is on this road nor understand where the road ends up.

Here are some of the warning signs:

* Scripture is no longer the ultimate authority as the basis for the Christian faith.
* The centrality of the gospel of Jesus Christ is being replaced by humanistic methods promoting church growth and a social gospel.
* More and more emphasis is being placed on building the kingdom of God now and less and less on the warnings of Scripture about the imminent return of Jesus Christ and a coming judgment in the future.
* The teaching that Jesus Christ will rule and reign in a literal millennial period is considered unbiblical and heretical.
* The teaching that the church has taken the place of Israel and Israel has no prophetic significance is often embraced.
* The teaching that the Book of Revelation does not refer to the future, but instead has been already fulfilled in the past
* An experiential mystical form of Christianity begins to be promoted as a method to reach the postmodern generation.
* Ideas are promoted teaching that Christianity needs to be reinvented in order to provide meaning for this generation.
* The pastor may implement an idea called “ancient-future” or “vintage Christianity” claiming that in order to take the church forward, we need to go back in church history and find out what experiences were effective to get people to embrace Christianity.
* While the authority of the Word of God is undermined, images and sensual experiences are promoted as the key to experiencing and knowing God.
These experiences include icons, candles, incense, liturgy, labyrinths, prayer stations, contemplative prayer, experiencing the sacraments, particularly the sacrament of the Eucharist.
* There seems to be a strong emphasis on ecumenism indicating that a bridge is being established that leads in the direction of unity with the Roman Catholic Church.
* Some evangelical Protestant leaders are saying that the Reformation went too far. * They are reexamining the claims of the “church fathers” saying that communion is more than a symbol and that Jesus actually becomes present in the wafer at communion.
* There will be a growing trend towards an ecumenical unity for the cause of world peace claiming the validity of other religions and that there are many ways to God.
* Members of churches who question or resist the new changes that the pastor is implementing are reprimanded and usually asked to leave.

What does the Future Hold?

If the Emerging Church continues unfolding at the present pace, mainstream evangelical Christianity will be reinvented and the gospel of Jesus Christ according to the Scriptures will be considered too narrow and too restrictive. In other words, the narrow way to heaven that Jesus proclaimed will eventually be abandoned for a wider way that embraces pagan experiential practices. I call this reinvented, re-imagined form of Christianity that is unfolding—“Christian Babylonianism”.

This new form of Christianity will replace biblical faith with a faith that says man can establish the kingdom of God here on earth. The Word will continue to become secondary to a system of works driven by experiences.

An ecumenical pattern towards unity with Rome will become more apparent. Those who refuse to embrace this direction will be considered spiritual oddballs that need to be reprimanded. Those who stand up for biblical faith will be considered the obstructions to the one world spirituality that is promoted as the answer for peace.

The best way to be prepared for what is coming is to gain an understanding of what is happening now. While there are not many who seem to discern the trend underway, there are some. Without the Bible and the Holy Spirit as our guide, the darkness that is coming would be overwhelming. However, the light of God’s Word penetrates the darkness and there are those who are being delivered from deception and see what is taking place.

I am convinced we are seeing apostasy underway, exactly as the Scriptures have forewarned. This means that this current trend is not likely to disappear. We must continue to proclaim the truth in the midst of deception with love. As Paul instructed Timothy:

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will (2 Timothy 2: 24-26).

There are still pastors and churches who are dedicated to proclaiming the truth. Find out where they are and support them. If you are in a location where this does not seem to be possible, seek out materials that are available from solid Bible-based Christian ministries and hold Bible studies in your own home.

And keep looking up! Jesus is coming soon.

HT: Understanding the Times.org

What Counts as "Righteous Anger?"

I wasn't going to post this. I thought about it for several days and still felt like I probably shouldn't post it.

Then, at church yesterday the topic was about the fact that as sinners we all possess a blurred image and how important it is to take steps (as born-again believers) to remove the blur in order to reach our true potential for God.

[Added on 9/18/07:

Despite all the evil that is going on around us, God has a plan for each of our lives. We have work to do for the kingdom every moment we are on this earth.

If someone doesn't know Christ and doesn't give their life to Him for His purposes, then they would only see, and remain, in the darkness.

Even as believers, we are still sinners. The difference is that we are no longer under condemnation for our sins. As repentant sinners saved by the forgiveness of our sins by way of Christ's cross, the grace and mercy of God has been bestowed upon us. However, we still have a "blur" regarding how to live in the image of our Lord. This is a lifetime challenge for us. It is known as "sanctification." ]

Pastor Miles McPherson's outline told us:

As sinners we only have a Blurred Image of our supernatural responsibilities and potential. If we do not take the steps necessary to remove the blur, we will never clearly see, understand or reach the true potential of our God IMAGE.

I. Individual Personality

A Blurred Image creates an 'I AM' imposter.
(See Genesis 3:5; Exodus 3:13; John 8:58)

M. Moral Mirror

A Blurred Image becomes a self-appointed morality maker.
(See Genesis 3:5; Proverbs 14:12)

A. Authority to Rule

A Blurred Image leads to a diminished level of authority.
(See Genesis 3:20-24; Isaiah 14:12-15; 1 Timothy 6:6)

G. God's Friend

A Blurred Image will destroy your God relationship.
(See Genesis 3:8-10; James 4:4-5)

E. Eternal Spirit

A Blurred Image can lead to eternal separation from God.
(See Genesis 3:2-3, 16-17, 21-24; Matthew 25:30)

Homework: Bringing it home: Name one change in your attitude and the resulting behavior that you need to make in order to remove a little of the blur in your life.

*******

You can go to The Rock Church website and download an MP3 broadcast of the previous 3 messages. The new one (this week's "A Blurred Image") should be up on the site later this week.

Now, with the information and Bible verses from the "A Blurred Image" outline, I am willing to put myself out there (for criticism, advice, condemnation...whatever) as an example in asking the question, "what counts as "righteous anger"? Is it O.K. with God? Or, because I am a sinner, is such anger due to a "blurred image" instead?

Go ahead and let me have it. Warts and all!! I really want any feedback you wish to give and/or your opinions on how I could have responded better in the following exchange that was posted at another blog:

[Note: Some words posted by commenters there have been "cleaned up" for posting here.]

Wednesday, September 05, 2007


TWO ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF TELEVANGELIST D. JAMES KENNEDY



'Kennedy Caused A Great Deal Of Pain For Gay Americans,' Said Truth Wins Out's Executive Director Wayne Besen

MIAMI BEACH - Televangelist Rev. D. James Kennedy of Coral Ridge Presbyterian was a radical fundamentalist cleric who demonized gay Americans, pioneered fraudulent 'ex-gay' ministries and fought to end the separation of church and state. Truth Wins Out's Executive Director Wayne Besen issued the following statement on Kennedy's passing:

"Truth Wins Out offers its condolences to the Kennedy family in this time of mourning. It is never easy to lose a loved one and those who took comfort in Kennedy's sermons will surely miss him.

However, we must also recognize that Kennedy was a great source of pain for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans. In 1998, Coral Ridge spearheaded a national advertising campaign that featured so-called 'ex-gay' ministries. The campaign ended in shame, after Kennedy's HIV+ ex-gay poster boy, Michael Johnston, resigned after allegedly having unsafe sex with men he met on the Internet. Kennedy never apologized for the suffering this deceptive campaign caused for Johnston's victims or the thousands of people duped by the false hope peddled by Coral Ridge.

Kennedy's theocratic vision of America was divisive, exclusionary, sectarian and dangerous. His aim was "reclaiming America for Christ," at the expense of personal freedom and religious liberty. We respect his commitment to his sincerely held beliefs, but are grateful that his radical plan for America never reached fruition.

We believe that a person should be remembered for the totality of his or her achievements and sins. Kennedy undoubtedly helped many people and inspired them to become better human beings. Unfortunately, he also leaves an ignoble legacy of intolerance that divided South Florida, destroyed families in the name of family values and relentlessly assaulted the U.S. Constitution."

Truth Wins OUT is a non-profit organization that counters right wing propaganda, exposes the "ex-gay" myth and educates America about gay life. For more information, visit TruthWinsOut. (live link deleted)

- 30 -

7 Comments:

Thank you to Wayne for a fair and accurate eulogy. D James Kennedy was a monster in his physical life and he built his career off bashing gays.

The Obit in one newspaper mentions that "he dropped out of college to become an Arthur Murray Dance Instructor..." Hmmmmmm... Sounds kinda like a Senator Craig kinda guy to me.

http://www.daytondailynews.com/n/content/
shared-gen/ap/National/Obit_Kennedy.htm
l
posted by Anonymous,

at 9/05/2007 8:36 PM

Good riddance to white trash, may he rot in whatever place is called hell if it exists. He can keep that fat ugly f--k Fallwell company.
posted by Robert, NYC.,

at 9/06/2007 8:54 AM

Right on Robert! With that hair and makeup, he looked as plastic on the outside as he was on the inside; and I agree with the first poster, he was probably Gary (NJ)
posted by Anonymous,

at 9/06/2007 9:28 AM

An uncanny resemblance to our dearly beloved Liberace! Except Lee would hate me for saying that.
posted by richard schillen,

at 9/06/2007 11:11 AM

I just read that this f***wad was a co-writer of a letter to bush in 2002 encouraging him to attack Iraq!!! Under what possible definition of Christianity did this miserable bag of venom consider himself a vicar of Christ. He died peacefully in bed with his wife and daughter at his side--unlike the soldiers and civilians and children in Iraq, alone and mangled, broken, burned, bloody and dismembered! If there is a hell, I hope it does look like a Hieronymus Bosch painting and he and falwell are right in the middle of it!
Red V
posted by Anonymous,

at 9/06/2007 1:39 PM

Gary, the more I look at his face, methinks this sad ass was indeed another Larry Craig in the making. I've said it a hundred times or more, that those who protest too much about our sexuality are the most suspect of all. Everyone of them who has been outed all have that in common, even the socalled straight ones. They are more transparent than they could ever imagine and they are overwhelmingly right wing conservatives,ooops, the new word folks is "civil libertarians".
posted by Robert, NYC.,

at 9/06/2007 2:29 PM

You people are the hateful ones. To deny the right of homosexuals who are unhappy with their behavior and orientation the right to change is despicable and intolerant of you!

Your horrible treatment (and denial that they happily exist) of ex-gay identified people who have found freedom from the sin of homosexuality is evidence of your hypocritical "tolerance" nonsense.

You can't stand the fact that they have been saved through repentance by the power, mercy, love and forgiveness of Christ Jesus, our Lord.

The fact that Dr. Kennedy adhered to uncompromising, biblical Christian faith is to his credit; despite the hateful rhetoric that you and your ilk spew upon him just after his death.

You are all a bunch of hypocrites!

Wayne, your patronizing drivel that you send "condolences to his family and those who loved him" is so transparently contrived it is almost laughable. You don't care a bit about them. Don't pretend that you do.

All of your hateful attitudes here had been prophecied about in the Bible.

How ironic is that. Hateful comments abound here from people who clamor every day for tolerance. What a joke you all are!!

The fact that many here express glee for his death and spew hatred towards someone who did much for the Lord while he lived on this earth is proof of your rebellious, reprobate position towards Holy and Righteous God.

Jesus Christ said that the world would reject His followers because such "worldly people" hate that their evil deeds are exposed through His Word. He also said that they (you!) will hate us (Christians) because you hated Him (Christ) first.

Your stupid book, "Anything but straight" is evidence of your rejection of God and His Word. That will be to your detriment in eternity. So be it.

For me, I'd rather be anything but reprobate towards God like you are.
posted by Christinewjc,
at 9/13/2007 4:24 PM

Jesus Stood the Test

A few days ago, I ran across a post that I thought was rather, well, a bit odd. The question was, "How long should deceased preachers be on the radio? "

I thought to myself, how long is too long? Especially if the preacher was a "giant" of his day (like J. Vernon McGee and the recently deceased D. James Kennedy)? What does it matter if we continue to hear the voices (via radio or cd) of these great preachers and evangelists long after they have gone to be with the Lord?

It's ironic. The author of that article (at twothree.net) provides his own good reason why great preachers should have their work continually available when he stated:

"I began to think of the other deceased guys who are on the radio - like Adrian Rogers, who died this past year, and whom I only recently discovered, and enjoy immensely." (bold mine)

There. We have the perfect reason for Christian radio to continue to broadcast the classic preachers. There will always be a new person and generation who may only "recently discover" them.

This week, I began reading a book called Jesus: Centerpiece of Scripture. It is a compilation gathered by the book's editor (Trude Cutler) of J. Vernon McGee's messages which had been preserved on audio cassettes.

The editor writes:

"May the Holy Spirit push back the clouds and open our minds and hearts to continually grow in the knowledge and appreciation of this wonderful Person--Jesus, the centerpiece of Scripture. ---Trude Cutler, Editor"

Push back the clouds.

Open our minds and hearts.

Continually grow in the knowledge and appreciation of Jesus.

Jesus - the centerpiece of Scripture.

That is surely a great title, for it is true that, as Jesus himself declared in John 5, "the Scriptures... testify of Me."

Jhn 5:36 But I have greater witness than [that] of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.


Jhn 5:37 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape.


Jhn 5:38 And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.


Jhn 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. (bold mine)


Jhn 5:40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.


Jhn 5:41 I receive not honour from men.


Jhn 5:42 But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.


Jhn 5:43 I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.


Jhn 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that [cometh] from God only?

Powerful words from Jesus, himself!

When I first started reading this book, I felt as though I had heard most of it before. I also saw McGee's wording and teaching a bit "old school." But when I got to chapter 4, Why Jesus Was Tempted, I received so much more illumination into the meaning of why Jesus was tempted with those exact temptations than I had learned before; despite the fact that I have attended several previous Bible studies that touched on this very subject..

It is so true. I can never claim to have "arrived" in knowing all there is to know about God's Word! No one can! That is why we have this family of believers, each with their own gifts, to share insight into God's Word with others and illuminate our minds to become more and more in tune with the mind of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As Paul eloquently tells us in 1 Corinthians, [we] have "the mind of Christ."

1Cr 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

McGee:

We are told in 1 Corinthians 15:47 that "the first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Lord from heaven." But out there in the wilderness we find the Lord from heaven down yonder where it's earthy, laying hold of humanity's problems. he is down on the level where we are, and here God the Son won a victory for mankind - for you and for me - in the temptation.

If you saw the movie, "The Passion of the Christ," you would have noticed that Jesus was often surrounded by the powers of darkness and destruction; and, we saw Him grappling with the basic problems of mankind.

The book of Luke 3:23-38 gives Jesus' genealogy that goes all the way back to Adam. Then, the temptation of our Lord is given, for He was a man, and as a man, He "was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15)

McGee:

Note that Jesus was "led of the Spirit" in Luke 4:1 - Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness.

McGee continues to inform us that if Jesus needed to be "filled with the Holy Spirit," then you and I cannot face the temptations of this world in our own strength! Even Paul mentions that when he "wanted to do good, evil is right there."

Can anyone relate to this? I should say, can anyone not relate to this?

In Romans 8:3,4 Paul states, "For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

McGee:

Paul found out that in and of himself he could not live the Christian life at all. He could not meet and grapple with the issues of life, for in his flesh there was nothing good. And even though Paul approved of the Law, he was unable to keep it because of weakness of the flesh. But he found out that by walking in the Spirit of God he was enabled to live for God. That's the reason he could write to the Galatians:

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust [the desire] of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16)

Knowing that our Lord was filled with the Holy Spirit before He entered the wilderness gives us the ultimateclue that we need in order to fight against temptation in our Christian walk so as not to "fulfill the lusts of the flesh."

It is interesting to note that in the Greek, the word "drove" is ekballo,(from Mark 1:12) which means "to throw out." The Holy Spirit threw Jesus out into the wilderness. Jesus did not seek the temptation.

McGee:

His (Jesus') attitude at the time of the temptation was the same as it was yonder in the Garden of Gethsemane when He prayed, "Let this cup pass from Me."

Any person in the flesh today, in the battles of life, is foolish to say that he can meet temptation and come off the victor. Even our Lord prayed, "Let this cup pass from Me." But He also hastened to add, "Nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39).

Because the chapter is long, I will need to skip over some of what is written. However, in the subtitled section called, "Satanic Purpose," McGee points out that Luke 4:2 tells us that Jesus was tempted in every way (Luke 4:13) and when the devil had departed from Him, it was until an opportune time. The theme, so to speak, of the temptation was to offer Jesus "the crown without the cross." And, when Jesus asked the Father, "take this cup away from Me" the "cup" was to be that of His suffering when He was to be made sin for us.

McGee:

He committed Himself to His Father's will, although bearing your sin and mine was so repulsive to Him.

McGee goes on to describe that the three temptations described in Luke 4 are:
1. Physical temptation
2. An appeal to the mind
3. And in the realm of the spirit

In Luke 4:3, where Satan tempts Jesus to "command this stone to become bread," McGee states:

What's wrong with our Lord making the stones into bread? Well, my beloved, the wrong thing was that it exemplified Satan's philosophy, which is still in existence today and by which most men live. It's simply this: A man must live, and in order to live he must eat.

McGee goes on to stress that we live in a satanic society where people would do just about anything for a dollar because they've got to eat. Sell drugs, participate in illicit sex, steal, gamble, rape, murder...you name it.

McGee:

And, what's worse, this is Satan's low estimate of the human family. He has nothing but utter contempt for us today! Why in the world would we serve him when he absolutely despises us? He said in Job 2:4, "All that a man has he will give for his life." The inference is that man is physical, only an animal, that's all. But Satan was wrong about Job. Now listen to our Lord as He answers him.

But Jesus answered him, saying, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God." (Luke 4:4)

Our Lord uses the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. Then He makes this statement, that man is more than physical. After man has satisfied his hunger and he's slaked his thirst and he's dressed up like a peacock; down deep underneath there's still that which needs to be satisfied. He is more than physical. He's more than an animal.

How many people do you think are distracted today by all things physical, simply ignoring the fact that they are, more importantly, spiritual beings in need of The Savior? Could they be missing the fact that in all their running "to and fro," their restless hearts still need to be reconciled back to God?

Just this morning, I heard about how many women are addicted to shopping. They get themselves into so much debt (one racked up over $50,000 worth of credit card debt!!) that they can't even pay the minimum charges each month. Just how many clothes does one need, anyway? Could it be that they are substituting that "thrill" of buying new clothes for that deep, nagging desire of the soul that only God can fill? You could apply any type of addiction here. Most of the time, you will find that they are obsessed because of that hole in their heart which can only be mended and made whole through Jesus Christ!

McGee:

Nothing in the world can satisfy the human heart except the Word of God. [He emphasizes "restless mulititudes rush to and fro in this world, traveling everywhere.] If I could only get somewhere else, maybe I'd be satisfied." My friend, you will never be satisfied except with the Word of God. Nothing else will satisfy you.

McGee:

Will you notice the second temptation. It's psychological. Its appeal is to the mind.

Luk 4:5 Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him[fn4] all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

Luk 4:6 And the devil said to Him, "All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.

Luk 4:7 "Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours."

What is Satan really saying to our Lord? His implication is this: "You are on the way to the throne, and I know You are going by way of the Cross. I have a detour for You. You can miss the horror of the Cross and come to the throne without the Cross." May I say to you, that is without doubt the most satanic insinuation in the world. This same appeal to the mind has gotten into the pulpits of America today, that we should be intellectual, that we should not preach the death of Christ, that the cross of Christ should not be held up. Yet the most brilliant of them all came yonder to Corinth, the city that boasted of its Greek philosophy. This man Paul, who knew their philosophy better than they knew it, came and said to them:

For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. (1 Corinthians 2:2)

And he said:

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing. (1 Corinthians 1:18)

Paul preaches the Cross because it is necessary for your salvation and mine. There's no other way. No other way.

McGee mentions a missionary named Dr. Edward Judson who observed, "My father suffered greatly in Burma, and as a result there has come into existence all these great missionary agencies of this day." And then he made this remarkable statement: "If you get anything without suffering, it's because somebody else suffered for you. And if you suffer and do not succeed, somebody else will get something because you suffered."

McGee:

Oh, what a glorious, wonderful truth that is. It contradicts the philosophy of Satan: "Miss the Cross; You don't need the Cross - its not essential. You can come to the throne without the Cross." Our Lord said, and will you notice this:

And Jesus answered and said to him, "Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.'" (Luke 4:8)

Oh, Satan left out something. Satan said, "If You will worship me only for a moment, I'll give You the kingdom." Our Lord said in effect, "You left out something. You cannot worship without serving. If I worship you, I'll serve you. And we are to worship God only, and Him only are we to serve."

Oh man, is that some good word or what?? Sent chills down my spine to see the subtlety, yet enormously negative results, that would occur through Satan's twisting of Scripture in order to make us fall for his deceptions! But wait...it gets even better...

McGee:

May I say to you, this is a mistake that even some Christians are making today. They think they can serve God on Sunday, and maybe through certain Christian agencies, but that they can live their own lives to suit themselves. My friend, you cannot do that. It's impossible. Listen to Paul in Romans 6:16:

Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?

Don't you know, my friend, that whomever you obey, whatever livery or uniform you ward, you are the servant of that one? If you are serving sin, then sin is your master. Don't fool yourself.

Ahhh!!! That's an awesome "the truth will set you free" piece of Christian apologetics for you right there!!

McGee:

My friend, today when you serve sin, sin is your master. Our Lord says you are to worship only God, and Him only are you to serve. You can't worship Him without serving Him. And if you're serving sin you cannot worship God.

The third area of Satan's attack is spiritual. Notice verse 9 in Luke 4:

Then he [Satan] brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here."

And now listen to the old rascal. He becomes pious; he knows a verse or two of Scripture also.

"For it is written:

'He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you,'
and,
'In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.'"
(Luke 4:10,11)

Satan moves not in the realm of the spirit - actually the realm of faith. "Do the spectacular! Demonstrate that You are the Son of God. Show them! Prove it to them, then they'll accept You, they'll believe You."

Eve looked at the forbidden tree, and the third thing she noticed was that it was designed to make one wise. Apparently she thought, "I'll be a little smarter than I am today by eating the fruit of that tree" - esoteric! "I'll get something that will lift me up" -the pride of life.

May I say to you that Satan can quote Scripture, and it was Shakespeare who said that the devil can quote Scripture for his own purpose. I ordinarily agree with Shakespeare, but he's wrong there. The devil can never quote Scripture for his purpose, but he certainly can misquote it for his purpose, and he did misquote it here. He left out that which was all-important--that is, he didn't fully quote the verse: "He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways" (Psalm 91:11, italics added). He left out the final four words. God the Father had a way for His Son, and it was not God's way for Him to throw Himself down from the temple. Oh, one of these days Christ will come in the clouds of glory, but it will be in accordance with the Father's will. Now it is not God's will. Faith is our quietly waiting upon God, doing His will.

You know, friend, for you and for me there are two great dangers today. We always think of unbelief being the great danger. Actually, that's not the only danger. The danger on the other side is presumption. Anyone today who will stick his hand in a sack of rattlesnakes and say "God can keep me from harm" is a fool. He is presuming upon God. Couldn't our Lord Jesus cast Himself down from the temple without harm? He certainly could! Why didn't He? Because He was moving by faith. In other words, Satan was saying, "No longer trust Him. Don't go in all His ways, go in Your own way now."

It's an awful thing to see folks moving in these two directions, unbelief on one hand and presuming upon God on the other. It's frightful today.

[W]hat right has little man to presume upon God and command Him to do anything? Our Lord can keep us in all His ways, and we are to walk in faith, but let's not presume on Him, my beloved. Unbelief is a danger, but presumption is a danger also.

Why Was Jesus Tested?

Jesus was tested, first of all, to demonstrate that we have an impeccable Savior. I have One today in whom I can have utmost confidence. He's able to save to the uttermost. All power, He said, was given to Him in heaven and in earth. I have that kind of Savior. He stood the test.

And second, there is a Man in glory today, at this very moment, who knows me and sympathizes with me. And when I go down through the darkness of this life and come to the battles I must fight and to that place where I cannot win in my own strength, Christ Jesus is there for me, and He knows me; He understands.

[H]ow wonderful that I have an Advocate with the Father, wonderful that when I need somebody to understand me and to help me, He's up there for me! My friend, though the whole world would turn against you today, if you are His, He's for you. And it is because He went yonder through the evil darkness of that satanic temptation on our behalf. Out in the wilderness He faced what I face and you face. Then He went to the Cross to die a death that you and I cannot go through!

The King of love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never,
I nothing lack if I am His
And He is mine forever.

Where streams of living water flow
My ransomed soul He leadeth,
And where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love He sought me,
And on His shoulder gently laid,
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

In death’s dark vale I fear no ill
With Thee, dear Lord, beside me;
Thy rod and staff my comfort still,
Thy cross before to guide me.

Thou spread’st a table in my sight;
Thy unction grace bestoweth;
And O what transport of delight
From Thy pure chalice floweth!

And so through all the length of days
Thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing Thy praise
Within Thy house forever.

- Henry W. Baker

*******

Resource: Jesus: Centerpiece of Scripture, by J. Vernon McGee, Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers, 1996 pp. 46-70