Over the past few weeks it has become obvious that some in my corps don't view holiness the same way I (or the Salvation Army) understand it so I thought I'd use this article to stir up some discussion.
This article was written by Chris Bounds and Keith Drury in a blog from September 2003, both professors at Indiana Wesleyan University. Please feel free to comment - I'd love your thoughts.
Can You Become a “Fully Devoted Follower of Christ?
John Wesley, like many of the early church fathers before him, preached that it is possible in this life to experience God’s power in such a way that we are actually able to live a love-filled obedient life. He taught that through God’s power we could be enabled to actually obey the two greatest commandments—loving God completely and loving neighbor as ourselves. The term for this experience has shifted through the years and has included Perfect love, the Upper Room Experience, being filled with the Spirit, baptism with the Holy Ghost, the deeper life, the higher way, Entire Sanctification, and Holiness. The current edition of this ageless notion is probably best represented in the term, “Fully devoted follower of Christ.” So what do you think? Can a person become a fully devoted follower of Christ? In this life? Is it possible? If so, how? The following are the seven answers most common in today’s church.
1. Seek now and receive by faith. Becoming a fully devoted follower of Christ is possible right now for you and you are urged to seek this life now by consecrating your all to God and receiving this second work of grace now by faith. (Historically, this has been the view of the Holiness Movement as associated with Pheobe Palmer and The Wesleyan Church.)
2. Keep seeking until you receive. a fully devoted follower of Christ is possible before death or old age, but you cannot experience it just by asking and believing—God can cleanse and fill you in His own good timing and thus you should keep on seeking until God responds with a second work of grace enabling this life of power and purity. (Although John Wesley’s teaching here is greatly debated, many scholars would contend this was Wesley’s view.)
3. Gradual growth process. While it is possible to become a fully devoted follower of Christ in this life, it can be achieved only after many years of a gradual process of spiritual growth—putting off sin and putting on deeds of righteousness through Christ’s power. By putting sins to death and moving gradually closer to Christ you can eventually—usually after many years—become a fully devoted follower of Christ. Your job now is to follow the Spirit’s leading in one area at a time. (This is the generally held position of The United Methodist Church, at least those who take seriously their Methodism, such as Thomas C. Oden.)
4. A sustainable experience with momentary lapses. Becoming a fully devoted follower of Christ can be the normative experience in a believer’s life. The Holy Spirit enables a believer to suppress the sin nature and live in sustained victory over it. However, because the root of sin remains until death, there will be moments in which sin will cloud or diminish victory. Sin or disobedience is seen as an exception, rather than the rule of Christian living. (This is the classic understanding of holiness in Keswick theology.)
5. A momentary but unsustainable experience. Becoming a fully devoted follower of Christ can be experienced in moments or short periods of life, but can’t be sustained for the long haul. There are times when a believer can truly act out of the complete love of God and the love of neighbor, untainted by selfishness and pride, but the “old man” is too strong to be completely vanquished in life. (This would represent a modern evangelical Lutheran perspective, as seen in the work of Gerhard Forde. Some scholars would argue this was Martin Luther’s position.)
6. Worthy goal but impossible dream. While it is clearly impossible in this life to ever actually become a fully devoted follower of Christ you should head that direction anyway, trusting God to deliver you increasingly from sinful thoughts, words and deeds, and gradually to empower you in love—but you will never get there: you will never become fully devoted. Holiness is a journey of devotion—not a destination you ever actually achieve. (This view represents well the position of Reformed theology and can be seen in the work of John Calvin, Reinhold Niebuhr, J. I. Packer, and Sinclair Ferguson.)
7. Holiness of Christ. All humans—including Christians—are so sinful at the core that even becoming a partially devoted follower to Christ can’t even be achieved in this life—rather true Christians should confess our sinfulness and realize that God has imputed Christ’s righteousness to us—God can’t see my sinfulness, but sees only the holiness of Christ; holiness is about Christ, not me. (While this view enjoys some degree of popularity in contemporary evangelicalism, it has not been held historically by credible and respected orthodox theologians. Some have placed Martin Luther and/or John Calvin in this camp by focusing on their understanding of imputed righteousness. It may be that because Luther, and to a much lesser degree Calvin, focused so much attention on our objective standing before God, and he was preoccupied with it, his understanding of imparted righteousness has been missed or inadvertently dismissed by his theological heirs, leading to this perspective today. Luther’s primary focus was on justification, but he does address sanctification.)
-----------------------------
Which do you believe? What you believe will affect how you live so think about.
I look forward to your comments.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Straight talk from Proverbs 21:3
Hello soldiers & friends,
Mark Twain said something like, "it's not the parts of the bible I don't understand that I have a problem with... it's the parts I do"
So here is just a quick word from Proverbs 21:3 which reads, "To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
More than all the "stuff" you could give God (like He needs our stuff?), God would most appreciate you simply doing what is right, just, and obedient to His Word.
Have you done everything you know God has asked you to? If not, give God the gift of your obedience today.
Live holy, Preach Jesus!
Mark Twain said something like, "it's not the parts of the bible I don't understand that I have a problem with... it's the parts I do"
So here is just a quick word from Proverbs 21:3 which reads, "To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
More than all the "stuff" you could give God (like He needs our stuff?), God would most appreciate you simply doing what is right, just, and obedient to His Word.
Have you done everything you know God has asked you to? If not, give God the gift of your obedience today.
Live holy, Preach Jesus!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Sunday's Sermon - Preparing for Resurrection Sunday
Hello all & and blessed Palm Sunday to all of you in the "salvosphere",
Due to a recording error my sermon wasn't recorded. For a manuscript of the teaching and a notes page simply go to the sermonplayer at the far bottom of this blog site. Next to the sermon title you will find a button for a downloadable pdf.
I ought to have an audio of my sermon working again next week.
----
Here are just some thoughts on my heart today...
Make sure you prepare your hearts and minds for this Holy week as we remember all that Christ did on our behalf so that we might have abundant life.
One praise from the church today was a young person testifying, "I praise God I am extremely saved!" - May we who have been touched by the Holy Spirit not only testify to our salvation, but to our sanctification. We serve a God who died and rose again to save us to the uttermost.
As Jesus made His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, some "religious leaders" told Jesus to have His disciples be quiet. Jesus' response was that if they were quiet, the rocks would cry out. God has designed us as the vessels by which the good news of Jesus is proclaimed, so be about your duty this week... tell someone that Jesus lived, died, and rose again as to make a way for us to be forgiven, only by faith (trusting in Jesus alone) can we know God, be acceptable for heaven, and be equipped to live Holy NOW.
Make sure you don't prepare to just see an "easter bunny bringing colored eggs and chocolate". Instead let's prepare to meet our Lord and Savior. If you really expected God Himself to show up at your Corps (or church) this next Sunday morning would it effect how you went to church? Here is the truth, God Himself does plan to meet you at church next Sunday, He is Risen, until we see Him physically we have His Holy Spirit to meet with us in a real and personal way. Prepare to meet with Jesus every day this week.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Due to a recording error my sermon wasn't recorded. For a manuscript of the teaching and a notes page simply go to the sermonplayer at the far bottom of this blog site. Next to the sermon title you will find a button for a downloadable pdf.
I ought to have an audio of my sermon working again next week.
----
Here are just some thoughts on my heart today...
Make sure you prepare your hearts and minds for this Holy week as we remember all that Christ did on our behalf so that we might have abundant life.
One praise from the church today was a young person testifying, "I praise God I am extremely saved!" - May we who have been touched by the Holy Spirit not only testify to our salvation, but to our sanctification. We serve a God who died and rose again to save us to the uttermost.
As Jesus made His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, some "religious leaders" told Jesus to have His disciples be quiet. Jesus' response was that if they were quiet, the rocks would cry out. God has designed us as the vessels by which the good news of Jesus is proclaimed, so be about your duty this week... tell someone that Jesus lived, died, and rose again as to make a way for us to be forgiven, only by faith (trusting in Jesus alone) can we know God, be acceptable for heaven, and be equipped to live Holy NOW.
Make sure you don't prepare to just see an "easter bunny bringing colored eggs and chocolate". Instead let's prepare to meet our Lord and Savior. If you really expected God Himself to show up at your Corps (or church) this next Sunday morning would it effect how you went to church? Here is the truth, God Himself does plan to meet you at church next Sunday, He is Risen, until we see Him physically we have His Holy Spirit to meet with us in a real and personal way. Prepare to meet with Jesus every day this week.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Palm Sunday - If you're a donkey, Jesus makes all the difference.
Hello sodiers and friends,
Just in case you missed church today "Palm Sunday", for whatever reason from your health to the volcanic ash, here is a Palm Sunday thought from a few years back. (don't forget to check out today's sermon posted tomorrow)
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday is such an important event in the life of Jesus, and for us as believers, that it is recorded in all 4 of the Gospels, but today to look at Luke 19:28-40 (take time to read it).
Let's think about the donkey a minute.
Donkeys play an important part in Scripture. A donkey that taught Balaam a valuable lesson. A donkey carried Mary from Nazareth to Bethlehem. A donkey that carried the baby Jesus into Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod. Now in the last part of Jesus life we see a donkey carrying Him in His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
Horses are beautiful animals with coats that shine in the sun. They have flowing manes that ripple in the breeze, and long graceful legs that eat up the miles. They have soft eyes, and even their breath make a sound that radiates power & strength. They walk with a dignity and are a picture of power, but not a donkey…
A donkey’s hair looks like ours does when we get up in the morning, their tail is unkempt and the mane is nothing beautiful to behold. Donkey ears are big and floppy and his braying sound is more like laughing than a huff of power, yet on the road to Jerusalem this little donkey hears the people shouting, "Hosanna!" and sees the crowds of people spreading their cloaks on the road before him.
I read someone’s writing that said, “I wonder if the donkey thought the parade was for him.”
Donkey’s aren’t supposed to be in parades…, even today in parades we see people on horseback, not donkeys. Here though this donkey appears to be the focal point of attention. Why? Because he is carrying the King of Kings, & the Lord of Lords.
Tomorrow the donkey will be in the corral again. But today he is the head of a parade of vicotory, because of Jesus. Today he is where the horse would usually be. Today he is the prancing stallion carrying the victor to his throne. Jesus made all the difference!
Jesus does make all the difference.
Do you ever have any donkey like attributes? (yes you do) Most of us aren’t the most amazing looking symbols of power and dignity. More often than not I feel smaller, less significant, and sometimes even more stubborn than others around me. If you feel like me then you should get this point.... Jesus makes all the difference.
Just like the donkey, we don’t deserve a parade for how great we are, when you let Jesus come into your life and rule the throne of your heart, He makes all the difference.
Today as you spend some time in worship of Jesus, and as you reflect on the upcoming rememberance of Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, remember that we don't live our lives to have crowds cheer for us, we must live to walk with Jesus, ever pointing others to the fact that He is our Lord and Savior.
Don't just be a donkey today, use every opportunity to show Jesus to the world.
Only Jesus saves from sin, sinning, and hell TO holiness, abundant life, and heaven. Don't be a donkey, give your life to Jesus and live every moment for His glory. Jesus makes all the difference.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Just in case you missed church today "Palm Sunday", for whatever reason from your health to the volcanic ash, here is a Palm Sunday thought from a few years back. (don't forget to check out today's sermon posted tomorrow)
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday is such an important event in the life of Jesus, and for us as believers, that it is recorded in all 4 of the Gospels, but today to look at Luke 19:28-40 (take time to read it).
Let's think about the donkey a minute.
Donkeys play an important part in Scripture. A donkey that taught Balaam a valuable lesson. A donkey carried Mary from Nazareth to Bethlehem. A donkey that carried the baby Jesus into Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod. Now in the last part of Jesus life we see a donkey carrying Him in His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
Horses are beautiful animals with coats that shine in the sun. They have flowing manes that ripple in the breeze, and long graceful legs that eat up the miles. They have soft eyes, and even their breath make a sound that radiates power & strength. They walk with a dignity and are a picture of power, but not a donkey…
A donkey’s hair looks like ours does when we get up in the morning, their tail is unkempt and the mane is nothing beautiful to behold. Donkey ears are big and floppy and his braying sound is more like laughing than a huff of power, yet on the road to Jerusalem this little donkey hears the people shouting, "Hosanna!" and sees the crowds of people spreading their cloaks on the road before him.
I read someone’s writing that said, “I wonder if the donkey thought the parade was for him.”
Donkey’s aren’t supposed to be in parades…, even today in parades we see people on horseback, not donkeys. Here though this donkey appears to be the focal point of attention. Why? Because he is carrying the King of Kings, & the Lord of Lords.
Tomorrow the donkey will be in the corral again. But today he is the head of a parade of vicotory, because of Jesus. Today he is where the horse would usually be. Today he is the prancing stallion carrying the victor to his throne. Jesus made all the difference!
Jesus does make all the difference.
Do you ever have any donkey like attributes? (yes you do) Most of us aren’t the most amazing looking symbols of power and dignity. More often than not I feel smaller, less significant, and sometimes even more stubborn than others around me. If you feel like me then you should get this point.... Jesus makes all the difference.
Just like the donkey, we don’t deserve a parade for how great we are, when you let Jesus come into your life and rule the throne of your heart, He makes all the difference.
Today as you spend some time in worship of Jesus, and as you reflect on the upcoming rememberance of Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, remember that we don't live our lives to have crowds cheer for us, we must live to walk with Jesus, ever pointing others to the fact that He is our Lord and Savior.
Don't just be a donkey today, use every opportunity to show Jesus to the world.
Only Jesus saves from sin, sinning, and hell TO holiness, abundant life, and heaven. Don't be a donkey, give your life to Jesus and live every moment for His glory. Jesus makes all the difference.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Volcanic Ash Warning for Homer
Hello Soldiers, friends, and family,Just an update on this morning's volcanic ash from the last erruption. We have closed the thrift store (most likely for the entire day).
As always we will have church to celebrate Palm Sunday - NO MATTER WHAT. Do remember that if you must drive you should cover your vehicles air intake with panty hose, clean your wipers with water and a cloth befor you use them or you will scratch your windshield, and if you must be out in the ash like it is, even with this small amount so far, make sure you wear your mask to keep from inhaling the particles.
For the latest official ash and weather warnings go to this link and make sure to scroll through the entire page as they are sometimes out of order.
http://pafc.arh.noaa.gov/volcano.php
Live holy, preach Jesus!
A “non-Salvationists” message on "silly putty & soldiership". 8 minutes
The video link is not posting right, to see the video just follow the link. Sorry for the extra step.
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Teaching/Default.aspx?id=121080
Live holy, preach Jesus!
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Teaching/Default.aspx?id=121080
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Friday, April 3, 2009
Did the devil invent my video game?
Just a thought...
I just wasted a bit of time with a simple video game. A simple "breakout" style, bounce the ball with a paddle game. It was free and nothing gross or impure, but a couple thoughts bounced into my mind as I played and I thought how much the devil did some of the same tricks.
1. I wasted too much time on something that was meaningless - don't get me wrong there is a time for "down time" and rest (I think even some mindless activitiy is o.k.), but I did spend too much time when you stop and think there is a battle waging in my town with eternal consequences.
2. The game kept offering changes to catch falling coins (of course you often lost your life "the ball" while off in their pursuit not keeping your eye on the ball). What good is it to gain the whole world chasing after material things and loose your soul?
3. At times the game surprised me with multiple "balls", of course I could clear my screen faster, but the most likely result was that in my trying to juggle too many "balls in the air" I would again loose sight of all of them quickly and again loose my life in the midst of all the busyness.
Perhaps in the midst of "playing the game" I am reminded that I, like many believers, face some of the devils favorite schemes...
*living for Jesus is not a game - let's soldier up and get fighting.
*there are times to rest and refresh, but don't be lazy, or waste time on things unimportant to your Commanders orders.
*don't get caught up in the pursuit of chasing things, in the chasing after falling coins you may loose your very life.
*don't juggle too many things and loose sight of what's really important to your mission - don't get lost in the "busyness" or the "business" - our job is to live holy and preach the saving gospel of Jesus Christ to all creation.
If you have fallen into any of these areas (like I confess I have before) confess, repent and turn from them, and jump back into the fray.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
I just wasted a bit of time with a simple video game. A simple "breakout" style, bounce the ball with a paddle game. It was free and nothing gross or impure, but a couple thoughts bounced into my mind as I played and I thought how much the devil did some of the same tricks.
1. I wasted too much time on something that was meaningless - don't get me wrong there is a time for "down time" and rest (I think even some mindless activitiy is o.k.), but I did spend too much time when you stop and think there is a battle waging in my town with eternal consequences.
2. The game kept offering changes to catch falling coins (of course you often lost your life "the ball" while off in their pursuit not keeping your eye on the ball). What good is it to gain the whole world chasing after material things and loose your soul?
3. At times the game surprised me with multiple "balls", of course I could clear my screen faster, but the most likely result was that in my trying to juggle too many "balls in the air" I would again loose sight of all of them quickly and again loose my life in the midst of all the busyness.
Perhaps in the midst of "playing the game" I am reminded that I, like many believers, face some of the devils favorite schemes...
*living for Jesus is not a game - let's soldier up and get fighting.
*there are times to rest and refresh, but don't be lazy, or waste time on things unimportant to your Commanders orders.
*don't get caught up in the pursuit of chasing things, in the chasing after falling coins you may loose your very life.
*don't juggle too many things and loose sight of what's really important to your mission - don't get lost in the "busyness" or the "business" - our job is to live holy and preach the saving gospel of Jesus Christ to all creation.
If you have fallen into any of these areas (like I confess I have before) confess, repent and turn from them, and jump back into the fray.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
A letter from General Willaim Booth April 1, 1869
To the Brethren and Sisters Labouring for JESUS - by General William Booth
letter, published in The East London Evangelist , 1 April 1869
in connection with the Dunedin Hall Christian Mission, Edinburgh
BELOVED FRIENDS Though I have not been privileged to see you in the flesh, yet I have heard with great thankfulness from time to time of your work of faith and labour of love: and I rejoice greatly in the abundant blessing granted to your labours, and bless God for every brand plucked from the everlasting through your instrumentality. I earnestly pray that you may be made a hundredfold more useful in the future than you have been in the past. The work in which you are engaged is the most important that can engage the attention or call forth the energies of any being...
Success in soulwinning, like all other work, both human and divine, depends on certain conditions...
If you want to succeed you must be careful to comply with these conditions...
I desire to give a few brief practical hints...And, first and foremost, I commend one qualification which seems to involve all others. That is, the Pentecostal baptism of the Holy Ghost. I would have you settle it in your souls for ever this one great immutable principle in the economy of grace, that spiritual work can only be done by those who possess spiritual power. No matter what else you may lack, or what may be against you, with the Holy Ghost you will succeed; but without the Holy Spirit, no matter what else you may possess, you will utterly and eternally fail.
Many make mistakes here. Aroused by the inward urgings of the Holy Spirit, they endeavour to comply with the call which comes from the word and the necessities of their fellow men; but being destitute of this power, they fail, and instead of going to the Strong for strength, they give up in despair. Again aroused, again they resolve and venture forth, but having no more power than before, they are as impotent as ever. And fail they must, until baptised with power from on high.
This I am convinced, is the one great need of the Church. We want no new truths, agencies, means, or appliances. We only want more of the fire of the Holy Ghost. ...
O what zeal, what selfdenial, what meekness, what boldness, what holiness, what love, would there not be? And with all this, what power for your great work? The whole city would feel it. God's people in every direction would catch the fire, and sinners would fall on every side. Difficulties would vanish, devils be conquered, infidels believe, and the glory of God be displayed...
You do desire to see signs and wonders wrought in the name of Jesus. To see a great awakening among the careless crowds around you....
This baptism then, is your first great need. If you think with me, will you not tarry for it? Offer yourselves to God for the fullness. Lay aside every weight...
Hold on! Though your feelings are barren, your way dark, and your difficulties be multiplied,steadily hang on the word of God.
Expect the baptism every hour; wait if he tarry. 'This kind goeth not forth but by prayer and fasting'; and the Lord whom you seek shall suddenly come to his temple.
I have more to say to you, but must wait another opportunity. Yours in the fellowship of the Gospel. WILLIAM BOOTH
Live holy, preach Jesus!
letter, published in The East London Evangelist , 1 April 1869
in connection with the Dunedin Hall Christian Mission, Edinburgh
BELOVED FRIENDS Though I have not been privileged to see you in the flesh, yet I have heard with great thankfulness from time to time of your work of faith and labour of love: and I rejoice greatly in the abundant blessing granted to your labours, and bless God for every brand plucked from the everlasting through your instrumentality. I earnestly pray that you may be made a hundredfold more useful in the future than you have been in the past. The work in which you are engaged is the most important that can engage the attention or call forth the energies of any being...
Success in soulwinning, like all other work, both human and divine, depends on certain conditions...
If you want to succeed you must be careful to comply with these conditions...
I desire to give a few brief practical hints...And, first and foremost, I commend one qualification which seems to involve all others. That is, the Pentecostal baptism of the Holy Ghost. I would have you settle it in your souls for ever this one great immutable principle in the economy of grace, that spiritual work can only be done by those who possess spiritual power. No matter what else you may lack, or what may be against you, with the Holy Ghost you will succeed; but without the Holy Spirit, no matter what else you may possess, you will utterly and eternally fail.
Many make mistakes here. Aroused by the inward urgings of the Holy Spirit, they endeavour to comply with the call which comes from the word and the necessities of their fellow men; but being destitute of this power, they fail, and instead of going to the Strong for strength, they give up in despair. Again aroused, again they resolve and venture forth, but having no more power than before, they are as impotent as ever. And fail they must, until baptised with power from on high.
This I am convinced, is the one great need of the Church. We want no new truths, agencies, means, or appliances. We only want more of the fire of the Holy Ghost. ...
O what zeal, what selfdenial, what meekness, what boldness, what holiness, what love, would there not be? And with all this, what power for your great work? The whole city would feel it. God's people in every direction would catch the fire, and sinners would fall on every side. Difficulties would vanish, devils be conquered, infidels believe, and the glory of God be displayed...
You do desire to see signs and wonders wrought in the name of Jesus. To see a great awakening among the careless crowds around you....
This baptism then, is your first great need. If you think with me, will you not tarry for it? Offer yourselves to God for the fullness. Lay aside every weight...
Hold on! Though your feelings are barren, your way dark, and your difficulties be multiplied,steadily hang on the word of God.
Expect the baptism every hour; wait if he tarry. 'This kind goeth not forth but by prayer and fasting'; and the Lord whom you seek shall suddenly come to his temple.
I have more to say to you, but must wait another opportunity. Yours in the fellowship of the Gospel. WILLIAM BOOTH
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Captain's meditation on Joshua 5, who is on the Lord's side?
If you read Joshua chapter 5:13-15 you will read the story of Joshua just prior to the battle of Jericho. Before the famous march around the city and the victory given by God we read Joshau finding "a man" (actually an angel) with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, "Are you for us or for our enemies?" "Neither," he replied, "but as commander of the army of the LORD I have now come." Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, "What message does my Lord have for his servant?" The commander of the LORD's army replied, "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy." And Joshua did so.
If you have something to face in your life for God, whether it be a holiness issue, a habit, sin, addiction, or an actual physical enemy - the question isn't is God for us or against us, the question is "are we on the Lord's side". Let's make sure before we go off to battle today, that we have met with God, bowinging in humble obedience and reverence, ready to hear the battle strategy from our Lord. It is no little matter that before hearing the word of God for a specific victory, first Joshua was told to approach in a manner of holiness.
Let's make sure in our prayers and planning today, we aren't telling God what we are doing and inviting His blessings on our plans, but rather that we have positioned ourselves for His plans.
As I mentioned in my sermon this past week - my 5 year old (soon to be 6 year old daughter) sang these words in the van on the way to school, and I pray that it is our honest proclamation today…
707 Who is on the Lord's side? Who will
1. Who is on the Lord's side? Who will serve the King? Who will be His helpers other lives to bring? Who will leave the world's side? Who will face the foe? Who is on the Lord's side? Who for Him will go?
By thy grand redemption, By thy grace divine, We are on the Lord's side; Savior, we are thine.
3. Jesus, thou hast bought us, Not with gold or gem, But with thine own life-blood for thy diadem. With thy blessing filling each who comes to thee, Thou hast made us willing, Thou hast made us free.
4. Fierce may be the conflict, Strong may be the foe, But the King's own army none can overthrow. Round His standard ranging, victory is secure, For His truth unchanging Makes the triumph sure.
Master, thou wilt keep us, By thy grace divine. Always on the Lord's side, Savior, always thine.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
If you have something to face in your life for God, whether it be a holiness issue, a habit, sin, addiction, or an actual physical enemy - the question isn't is God for us or against us, the question is "are we on the Lord's side". Let's make sure before we go off to battle today, that we have met with God, bowinging in humble obedience and reverence, ready to hear the battle strategy from our Lord. It is no little matter that before hearing the word of God for a specific victory, first Joshua was told to approach in a manner of holiness.
Let's make sure in our prayers and planning today, we aren't telling God what we are doing and inviting His blessings on our plans, but rather that we have positioned ourselves for His plans.
As I mentioned in my sermon this past week - my 5 year old (soon to be 6 year old daughter) sang these words in the van on the way to school, and I pray that it is our honest proclamation today…
707 Who is on the Lord's side? Who will
1. Who is on the Lord's side? Who will serve the King? Who will be His helpers other lives to bring? Who will leave the world's side? Who will face the foe? Who is on the Lord's side? Who for Him will go?
By thy grand redemption, By thy grace divine, We are on the Lord's side; Savior, we are thine.
3. Jesus, thou hast bought us, Not with gold or gem, But with thine own life-blood for thy diadem. With thy blessing filling each who comes to thee, Thou hast made us willing, Thou hast made us free.
4. Fierce may be the conflict, Strong may be the foe, But the King's own army none can overthrow. Round His standard ranging, victory is secure, For His truth unchanging Makes the triumph sure.
Master, thou wilt keep us, By thy grace divine. Always on the Lord's side, Savior, always thine.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
ArmyBarmy blog
In case you've never checked it out you can find a link on the left of my blog. Captain Stephen Court and the Salvos (Salvationists in Australia) like many places around the world, are still fired up to win the world for Jesus.
This is a partial re-post from his blog from March 28th...
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We want to win the world for Jesus.
a. That sounds really hard!
To win the world for Jesus takes evangelism and discipleship. But the thing is, it is really hard to get people saved and discipled. And it is deceitfully easier to do other things, like feeding them and clothing them. It is easier to sleep at night when you haven’t seen anyone saved for awhile and that you are not discipling anyone knowing that you have fed a family or clothed a poor beggar. And that isn’t true of individuals only. It goes for denominations, too.
b. It sounds pretty narrow-minded.
To win the world for Jesus suggests that other means aren’t don’t work. And that sounds so judgemental of other religions and other philosophies and other means of seeking God. And yet no other thing works. None of them deals with the cry that births every sincere religion: a. how to connect with God; and, b. how to deal with our problem of sin. Rituals and self-abasement, or a series of works and attempts to earn an audience with God have proved futile for centuries in various religious guises. And every attempt to deal with sin aside from Jesus is equally futile. Jesus is the only name under heaven by which we must be saved.
c. It sounds sort of arrogant.
To win the world for Jesus indicates that other things aren’t worthy. Surely there are other fantastic things to which to devote your lives. You could invest yourself in feeding hungry people. Or you could throw away your life in ending human trafficking. Or you could fight to save all of the AIDS orphans. Or you could try to find homes for homeless people. Or you could … The list goes on ad infinitum. The point is, these are all important things to do. Hungry people need food. Traffic victims need freedom. Orphans need parenting. Homeless people need homes. But if any or all of these alternatives become more important than winning the world for Jesus then the result is more than likely to be well-fed, rescued and freed, adopted and parented, and bedded people populating hell. On the other hand, if you throw your life away to win the world for Jesus then a bunch of people will get saved and go to heaven, and a bunch more people will be on the receiving end of God’s mercy as you and those converts feed and free and adopt and construct, both as a supernatural overflow of God’s love in your lives and as a means to win the world for Jesus.
d. It sounds to much.
To win the world for Jesus seems condemnatory of anything less. Some would aim for authentic Christian community. Others pine for the ‘good old days’, an era that almost inevitably has grown better by the year. And more than a few look for modest success. But who sets these as life purposes? Authentic Christian community is a means, not an end. The good old days are meant to spur us on to love and good deeds, not stall us in mission. Modest success puts limits on God by aiming subjectively at relative comparison, rather than global mandate. Don’t confuse means for ends. Don’t misuse the lessons of the past. Don’t settle for the world’s perspective on success. Win the world for Jesus.
--------
After hearing the good news of Jesus and the commands He has has given us as His followers, it sounds like our Savior deserves nothing less.
I don't recall which of the Booth's said it, but I read once the phrase, "let's win the whole world for Jesus, there is no reason He shouldn't have it"!
Live holy, Preach Jesus!
This is a partial re-post from his blog from March 28th...
--------
We want to win the world for Jesus.
a. That sounds really hard!
To win the world for Jesus takes evangelism and discipleship. But the thing is, it is really hard to get people saved and discipled. And it is deceitfully easier to do other things, like feeding them and clothing them. It is easier to sleep at night when you haven’t seen anyone saved for awhile and that you are not discipling anyone knowing that you have fed a family or clothed a poor beggar. And that isn’t true of individuals only. It goes for denominations, too.
b. It sounds pretty narrow-minded.
To win the world for Jesus suggests that other means aren’t don’t work. And that sounds so judgemental of other religions and other philosophies and other means of seeking God. And yet no other thing works. None of them deals with the cry that births every sincere religion: a. how to connect with God; and, b. how to deal with our problem of sin. Rituals and self-abasement, or a series of works and attempts to earn an audience with God have proved futile for centuries in various religious guises. And every attempt to deal with sin aside from Jesus is equally futile. Jesus is the only name under heaven by which we must be saved.
c. It sounds sort of arrogant.
To win the world for Jesus indicates that other things aren’t worthy. Surely there are other fantastic things to which to devote your lives. You could invest yourself in feeding hungry people. Or you could throw away your life in ending human trafficking. Or you could fight to save all of the AIDS orphans. Or you could try to find homes for homeless people. Or you could … The list goes on ad infinitum. The point is, these are all important things to do. Hungry people need food. Traffic victims need freedom. Orphans need parenting. Homeless people need homes. But if any or all of these alternatives become more important than winning the world for Jesus then the result is more than likely to be well-fed, rescued and freed, adopted and parented, and bedded people populating hell. On the other hand, if you throw your life away to win the world for Jesus then a bunch of people will get saved and go to heaven, and a bunch more people will be on the receiving end of God’s mercy as you and those converts feed and free and adopt and construct, both as a supernatural overflow of God’s love in your lives and as a means to win the world for Jesus.
d. It sounds to much.
To win the world for Jesus seems condemnatory of anything less. Some would aim for authentic Christian community. Others pine for the ‘good old days’, an era that almost inevitably has grown better by the year. And more than a few look for modest success. But who sets these as life purposes? Authentic Christian community is a means, not an end. The good old days are meant to spur us on to love and good deeds, not stall us in mission. Modest success puts limits on God by aiming subjectively at relative comparison, rather than global mandate. Don’t confuse means for ends. Don’t misuse the lessons of the past. Don’t settle for the world’s perspective on success. Win the world for Jesus.
--------
After hearing the good news of Jesus and the commands He has has given us as His followers, it sounds like our Savior deserves nothing less.
I don't recall which of the Booth's said it, but I read once the phrase, "let's win the whole world for Jesus, there is no reason He shouldn't have it"!
Live holy, Preach Jesus!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sunday's Sermon - Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
To listen to this past Sunday's sermon now, just click the play arrow here for audio or download options.
For sermon notes see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF for notes. Today's notes have a fill in section and then a full manuscript outline of my study for today's sermon.
For past sermons or podcasting see the full size sermon player at the very bottom of this blog page. Choose a message by title OR click the podcasting icon at the bottom of the sermon player.
You can also access my sermon player (and countless other preachers) at Sermon.net
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
For sermon notes see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF for notes. Today's notes have a fill in section and then a full manuscript outline of my study for today's sermon.
For past sermons or podcasting see the full size sermon player at the very bottom of this blog page. Choose a message by title OR click the podcasting icon at the bottom of the sermon player.
You can also access my sermon player (and countless other preachers) at Sermon.net
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
10 Excuses Not to Attend Church
—InHis.com humor archive; submitted by Mike Herman, Glen Ellyn, Illinois
If you took the excuses people use for not going to church and applied them to other important areas of life, you'd realize how inconsistent we can be in our logic. For example:
10 Reasons Not to Wash
1. I was forced to as a child.
2. People who make soap are only after your money.
3. I wash on special occasions like Christmas and Easter.
4. People who wash are hypocrites—they think they are cleaner than everyone else.
5. There are so many different kinds of soap, I can't decide which one is best.
6. I used to wash. It got boring though, so I stopped.
7. None of my friends wash.
8. The bathroom is never warm enough in the winter or cool enough in the summer.
9. I'll start washing when I get older and dirtier.
10. I can't spare the time.
In all seriousness, going to church and religion will not get you saved, but once saved why wouldn't you want to coporately worship with others who are part of the Body of Christ that He has set up on this earth.
If your corps (or church) is not all it should be, or is missing a program or group you'd prefer, offer to help get it going.
Remember that you shouldn't go just to "get blessed", simply go to "bless God" and see how your expereince changes.
Whether you make it to a corps, a church, a cell group, or otherwise, spend some time with God today. Jesus, and Jesus alone, saves from sin and hell, for heaven and holiness.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
If you took the excuses people use for not going to church and applied them to other important areas of life, you'd realize how inconsistent we can be in our logic. For example:
10 Reasons Not to Wash
1. I was forced to as a child.
2. People who make soap are only after your money.
3. I wash on special occasions like Christmas and Easter.
4. People who wash are hypocrites—they think they are cleaner than everyone else.
5. There are so many different kinds of soap, I can't decide which one is best.
6. I used to wash. It got boring though, so I stopped.
7. None of my friends wash.
8. The bathroom is never warm enough in the winter or cool enough in the summer.
9. I'll start washing when I get older and dirtier.
10. I can't spare the time.
In all seriousness, going to church and religion will not get you saved, but once saved why wouldn't you want to coporately worship with others who are part of the Body of Christ that He has set up on this earth.
If your corps (or church) is not all it should be, or is missing a program or group you'd prefer, offer to help get it going.
Remember that you shouldn't go just to "get blessed", simply go to "bless God" and see how your expereince changes.
Whether you make it to a corps, a church, a cell group, or otherwise, spend some time with God today. Jesus, and Jesus alone, saves from sin and hell, for heaven and holiness.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
6 Resolutions by Willaim Booth (at age 20)
1. That I will rise every morning sufficiently early to wash, dress, and
have a few minutes, not less than 5, in private prayer.
2. That I will, as much as possible, avoid all that babbling and idle talk
in which I have lately so sinfully indulged.
3. That I will endeavor in my conduct and deportment before the
world and my fellow servants especially to conduct myself as a
humble, meek and zealous follower of Christ, and by serious
conversation and warning endeavor to lead them to think of their
immortal souls.
4. That I will read no less than four chapters in God’s Word every
day.
5. That I will strive to live closer to God, and to seek after holiness of
heart and leave providential events with God.
6. That I will read over this every day or at least twice a week.
“God help me, enable me to cultivate a spirit of self-denial and to
yield myself a prisoner of love to the redeemer of the world.”
“I feel my own weakness, and without God’s help I shall not keep
these resolutions. The Lord have mercy upon my guilty soul.”
Soldiers - live resolved to live holy, preach Jesus!
have a few minutes, not less than 5, in private prayer.
2. That I will, as much as possible, avoid all that babbling and idle talk
in which I have lately so sinfully indulged.
3. That I will endeavor in my conduct and deportment before the
world and my fellow servants especially to conduct myself as a
humble, meek and zealous follower of Christ, and by serious
conversation and warning endeavor to lead them to think of their
immortal souls.
4. That I will read no less than four chapters in God’s Word every
day.
5. That I will strive to live closer to God, and to seek after holiness of
heart and leave providential events with God.
6. That I will read over this every day or at least twice a week.
“God help me, enable me to cultivate a spirit of self-denial and to
yield myself a prisoner of love to the redeemer of the world.”
“I feel my own weakness, and without God’s help I shall not keep
these resolutions. The Lord have mercy upon my guilty soul.”
Soldiers - live resolved to live holy, preach Jesus!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Captain's meditation on John 11:38-44
Take a minute to read this passage of scripture...
Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. "Take away the stone," he said. "But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me." When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go."
Some thoughts I pondered again as I read this fantastic scripture were these...
1. Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, but before granting this miracle of a resurrected life, He had others remove the stone.
2. After raising Lazarus from the dead He had others help Lazarus to remove the grave clothes.
3. If Jesus gives you new life (or involves you in the privilege of bringing someone to Christ) remember to take of your old dead grave clothes.
Being resurrected to new life if a blessing indeed, but don't settle for being bound by "dead stuff". Live holy and take off the old garments, sins, and dead habits that will stink up and restrict your new resurrected life!
Dearest salvationists (and follower of Jesus) let's press on to FULL-salvation, not just salvation from hell to heaven the day we die, but from hellish living to an abundant, holy, heavenly living NOW!
Jesus saves from sin and sinning. Let's through off every sin that entangles and start living a life fully devoted to God and completely abandoned to the Holy Spirit's leading.
Why not take of your grave clothes today and then remind someone today that Jesus saves to the uttermost.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. "Take away the stone," he said. "But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me." When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go."
Some thoughts I pondered again as I read this fantastic scripture were these...
1. Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, but before granting this miracle of a resurrected life, He had others remove the stone.
2. After raising Lazarus from the dead He had others help Lazarus to remove the grave clothes.
3. If Jesus gives you new life (or involves you in the privilege of bringing someone to Christ) remember to take of your old dead grave clothes.
Being resurrected to new life if a blessing indeed, but don't settle for being bound by "dead stuff". Live holy and take off the old garments, sins, and dead habits that will stink up and restrict your new resurrected life!
Dearest salvationists (and follower of Jesus) let's press on to FULL-salvation, not just salvation from hell to heaven the day we die, but from hellish living to an abundant, holy, heavenly living NOW!
Jesus saves from sin and sinning. Let's through off every sin that entangles and start living a life fully devoted to God and completely abandoned to the Holy Spirit's leading.
Why not take of your grave clothes today and then remind someone today that Jesus saves to the uttermost.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Non-threatening evangelism? John 14:27
Here is a thought for those of you trying to overcome your fear about witnessing... how about trying to share a tract or a word with your local Wal-mart employee or the waitress at your local restaurant? They are paid to be nice, they can't call you crazy, they might even be wearing a giant happy face that says "how can I help you".
We just did this again as our family got away to Anchorage this past week (where we ate at a real restaurant - which we don't do often). We have done this before with a wide range of results, but never a bad one.
We simply asked the waitress when she brought the food and said "was there anything else", we told her we always prayed before our meals and was there anything we could pray for her about. Some people have been very moved, some surprised, some have shared deep things, but never a negative response.
This waitress (obviously taken back and not a 'prayer') said "how about peace". After the meal we simply left her a gosepl tract and left a note along with the tip that said, "may you know the peace that only Jesus can give" and "here is your verse for today" John 14:27 Jesus said - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
As I said, we've never had a bad response, and most have been great. If you need to get your feet wet telling others about Jesus, why not try talking to someone who has to be nice to you.
Let me know how it goes.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
We just did this again as our family got away to Anchorage this past week (where we ate at a real restaurant - which we don't do often). We have done this before with a wide range of results, but never a bad one.
We simply asked the waitress when she brought the food and said "was there anything else", we told her we always prayed before our meals and was there anything we could pray for her about. Some people have been very moved, some surprised, some have shared deep things, but never a negative response.
This waitress (obviously taken back and not a 'prayer') said "how about peace". After the meal we simply left her a gosepl tract and left a note along with the tip that said, "may you know the peace that only Jesus can give" and "here is your verse for today" John 14:27 Jesus said - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
As I said, we've never had a bad response, and most have been great. If you need to get your feet wet telling others about Jesus, why not try talking to someone who has to be nice to you.
Let me know how it goes.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Founder William Booth speaks on First Principles and Dangers
This article first appeared in The Officer magazine in January 1893; reprinted in The Officer magazine in March/April 2003
The following is a summary of the General’s opening address at the last British Staff Council, which is likely to prove a turning point in the Army history. The notes were roughly jotted down at the time and only give a bird’s-eye view of what he said. The following are exerpts from among his introductory remarks:
‘Progress is tidal. There is a settling down tendency in human nature. If there is not a tide, we must make one.
‘In the Church there is a flowing tide of worldliness. We must stem it. Our business is not to interest or to amuse the world, but to save it.
‘There are other dangers of our own which must be looked into and remedied. By spreading out too rapidly, we have made some hard goes and have suffered losses. Again, we have weakened the Field to strengthen the Staff. There are many officers now on the Staff who should be in the Field.
‘The foundation principles of the Army’s teaching remain the same, and will do so to the end. They are in brief —
1. We can be forgiven.
2. We can be holy.
3. We must live to save others.
‘These truths can only be worked out by means of —
1. Faith in God.
2. Hard work.
3. Sacrifice.
4. Discipline.
‘The new plans I lay before you will not dispense with these essentials. There may be an easier way, but none better. These principles run through the Army like the veins through the body. ...
‘I speak to you as your father, and want to warn you faithfully as to the dangers to which I see you to be exposed — the dangers which threaten to hinder the success and progress of our Army.
‘I. The first great danger is Secularisation. We are in danger of becoming earth-worms, of being swallowed up in figures and business and returns. No hours with God, no flights of prayer, no going to Heaven over sinners saved.
‘II. The second great danger is Stagnation. We are continually exposed to this danger of formality, and of sleeping with our eyes open.
‘III. There is also the danger of Pride and Self-satisfaction. Few can stand promotion without being hurt by it, and losing the spirit of willingness to learn. A story is told of Lord Coleridge when a young man. The Master said to him, “Mr Coleridge, I have a high opinion of you, so has your tutor, so have we all; but none of us have so high an opinion of you as you have of yourself.” I fear it might be said of some of us. It is a tendency against which we must guard ourselves.
‘Dealing with root principles. I am going to deal with root principles. This has been largely the secret of my success in the past. I have laid them down and stuck to them. They are not many in number, and yet it is impossible to exaggerate their importance. There are only seven notes in music, and yet by a combination of them we are able to produce an infinite variety of exquisite harmonies. ...
‘There is not one of you in whose personal sorrows and struggles I do not feel an interest. I would like to go into them myself if I only had the time. I would like to go home to tea with each one of you, and help you mothers nurse the baby and share your troubles. I cannot bear to see you suffer, but I am unable to avoid it. I am determined to use you all to the utmost of God’s work. I am going to get out of you all I can. A general is no good for his post who is not willing to see his soldiers suffer. And however good my plans may be, they will involve not less but more hard work, sacrifice, and discipline than in the past; but they will ensure, I believe, with your hearty cooperation, an abundant harvest of success.’
The above remarks occupied the first sitting of the Council. Needless to say that the stirring words of our beloved General moved us to tears, and to a fresh consecration of ourselves to God and the war.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
The following is a summary of the General’s opening address at the last British Staff Council, which is likely to prove a turning point in the Army history. The notes were roughly jotted down at the time and only give a bird’s-eye view of what he said. The following are exerpts from among his introductory remarks:
‘Progress is tidal. There is a settling down tendency in human nature. If there is not a tide, we must make one.
‘In the Church there is a flowing tide of worldliness. We must stem it. Our business is not to interest or to amuse the world, but to save it.
‘There are other dangers of our own which must be looked into and remedied. By spreading out too rapidly, we have made some hard goes and have suffered losses. Again, we have weakened the Field to strengthen the Staff. There are many officers now on the Staff who should be in the Field.
‘The foundation principles of the Army’s teaching remain the same, and will do so to the end. They are in brief —
1. We can be forgiven.
2. We can be holy.
3. We must live to save others.
‘These truths can only be worked out by means of —
1. Faith in God.
2. Hard work.
3. Sacrifice.
4. Discipline.
‘The new plans I lay before you will not dispense with these essentials. There may be an easier way, but none better. These principles run through the Army like the veins through the body. ...
‘I speak to you as your father, and want to warn you faithfully as to the dangers to which I see you to be exposed — the dangers which threaten to hinder the success and progress of our Army.
‘I. The first great danger is Secularisation. We are in danger of becoming earth-worms, of being swallowed up in figures and business and returns. No hours with God, no flights of prayer, no going to Heaven over sinners saved.
‘II. The second great danger is Stagnation. We are continually exposed to this danger of formality, and of sleeping with our eyes open.
‘III. There is also the danger of Pride and Self-satisfaction. Few can stand promotion without being hurt by it, and losing the spirit of willingness to learn. A story is told of Lord Coleridge when a young man. The Master said to him, “Mr Coleridge, I have a high opinion of you, so has your tutor, so have we all; but none of us have so high an opinion of you as you have of yourself.” I fear it might be said of some of us. It is a tendency against which we must guard ourselves.
‘Dealing with root principles. I am going to deal with root principles. This has been largely the secret of my success in the past. I have laid them down and stuck to them. They are not many in number, and yet it is impossible to exaggerate their importance. There are only seven notes in music, and yet by a combination of them we are able to produce an infinite variety of exquisite harmonies. ...
‘There is not one of you in whose personal sorrows and struggles I do not feel an interest. I would like to go into them myself if I only had the time. I would like to go home to tea with each one of you, and help you mothers nurse the baby and share your troubles. I cannot bear to see you suffer, but I am unable to avoid it. I am determined to use you all to the utmost of God’s work. I am going to get out of you all I can. A general is no good for his post who is not willing to see his soldiers suffer. And however good my plans may be, they will involve not less but more hard work, sacrifice, and discipline than in the past; but they will ensure, I believe, with your hearty cooperation, an abundant harvest of success.’
The above remarks occupied the first sitting of the Council. Needless to say that the stirring words of our beloved General moved us to tears, and to a fresh consecration of ourselves to God and the war.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Homer Update on the Redoubt Volcano Erruption
Just a quick FYI for friends, family, and soldiers checking in...
Here is the report from KTUU - it also has a link to the volcano observatory.
http://www.ktuu.com/Global/story.asp?S=10051900
Everything in Homer is fine. We did have power outages this morning (not sure yet if they were related) and it reduced us to cell phones (no phone or internet). Just because you can't reach us doesn't mean anything is wrong. Everything is fine.
All corps programs are still a go, and if "the big one" ever hits, or even if people are concerned about the "what if's" of life, we know that God is in control. Use these opportunities to tell everyone to be prepared to meet Jesus, not just for a natural disaster.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Here is the report from KTUU - it also has a link to the volcano observatory.
http://www.ktuu.com/Global/story.asp?S=10051900
Everything in Homer is fine. We did have power outages this morning (not sure yet if they were related) and it reduced us to cell phones (no phone or internet). Just because you can't reach us doesn't mean anything is wrong. Everything is fine.
All corps programs are still a go, and if "the big one" ever hits, or even if people are concerned about the "what if's" of life, we know that God is in control. Use these opportunities to tell everyone to be prepared to meet Jesus, not just for a natural disaster.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Sunday's Sermon - Tetelestai, "It is finished"
To listen to this past Sunday's sermon now, just click the play arrow here for audio or download options.
For sermon notes see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF for notes.
For past sermons or podcasting see the full size sermon player at the very bottom of this blog page. Choose a message by title OR click the podcasting icon at the bottom of the sermon player.
You can also access my sermon player (and countless other preachers) at Sermon.net
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
For sermon notes see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF for notes.
For past sermons or podcasting see the full size sermon player at the very bottom of this blog page. Choose a message by title OR click the podcasting icon at the bottom of the sermon player.
You can also access my sermon player (and countless other preachers) at Sermon.net
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
A devotional thought for this Sunday
May God bless your Sunday - I pray you take some time today to seek a closer relationship with Jesus. He alone saves from sin and hell, for holy living and heaven!
I was gone for the last several days on a brief vacation out of Homer to the "big city" of Anchorage. Until I'm back on track with a new meditational thought on a scripture I am currently reading, please enjoy this thought from Os Hillman in an email I received.
Receiving Bad News - Written by Os Hillman 03-17-2009
"A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the sea. . . Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD. . ." (2 Chron 20:2-3).
Have you ever had someone bring you really bad news? It was so bad that when you heard it your stomach immediately became upset. You went into a crisis mode. I once received a letter that brought such fear upon me I could hardly stand up.
This was the situation for King Jehoshaphat. He had just been informed that his country was going to be attacked by an army much larger than his. However, instead of panicking, he immediately turned to the Lord by calling for a time of a fasting and prayer. The people from every town in Judah responded.
King Jehoshaphat prayed and reminded God of His promise to Israel. Then he asked God for strategy. "For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." At the end of his prayer it says they waited on God's answer. It came through the prophet, Jahaziel son of Zechariah. He said, "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's'" (2 Chron 20:15-16).
God supernaturally wiped out their enemies that day. They didn't even have to fight. God caused the enemy to fight themselves. However, the one thing they did do that began the ambush was when they began to praise God on the battlefield. "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chron 20:22-23).
Jehoshaphat immediately did four things in response to bad news. He called for prayer, he called for fasting, he asked for God's strategy, and he began his battle by praising God in the midst of the battle.
Maybe you've just gotten some bad news. If so, follow the example of Jehoshaphat. Pray. Fast. Ask. Praise.
This article came from "Prime Time with God" devotional email, to sign up you visit - http://msg1svc.net/servlet/FormListener?Y2dpOjE6TE4=
I was gone for the last several days on a brief vacation out of Homer to the "big city" of Anchorage. Until I'm back on track with a new meditational thought on a scripture I am currently reading, please enjoy this thought from Os Hillman in an email I received.
Receiving Bad News - Written by Os Hillman 03-17-2009
"A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the sea. . . Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD. . ." (2 Chron 20:2-3).
Have you ever had someone bring you really bad news? It was so bad that when you heard it your stomach immediately became upset. You went into a crisis mode. I once received a letter that brought such fear upon me I could hardly stand up.
This was the situation for King Jehoshaphat. He had just been informed that his country was going to be attacked by an army much larger than his. However, instead of panicking, he immediately turned to the Lord by calling for a time of a fasting and prayer. The people from every town in Judah responded.
King Jehoshaphat prayed and reminded God of His promise to Israel. Then he asked God for strategy. "For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." At the end of his prayer it says they waited on God's answer. It came through the prophet, Jahaziel son of Zechariah. He said, "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's'" (2 Chron 20:15-16).
God supernaturally wiped out their enemies that day. They didn't even have to fight. God caused the enemy to fight themselves. However, the one thing they did do that began the ambush was when they began to praise God on the battlefield. "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chron 20:22-23).
Jehoshaphat immediately did four things in response to bad news. He called for prayer, he called for fasting, he asked for God's strategy, and he began his battle by praising God in the midst of the battle.
Maybe you've just gotten some bad news. If so, follow the example of Jehoshaphat. Pray. Fast. Ask. Praise.
This article came from "Prime Time with God" devotional email, to sign up you visit - http://msg1svc.net/servlet/FormListener?Y2dpOjE6TE4=
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