Saturday, July 25, 2009
Michael Jackson's REAL cause of death!
Of course no one but the Lord knows where Michael is right now - if he at the end of his life had complete trust in Jesus Christ alone for his salvation and repented of his sins, then he is saved for eternity, but anything less that true repentance would cause him to miss heaven and earn hell for his sins - JUST LIKE WOULD HAPPEN TO ME!
Make sure you trust in Jesus alone today, repent of your every sin. Salvation is more than just a one time prayer for Jesus to "come into your life" it is about the surrender of your life to now be lived for HIM!
10 out of 10 people will die some day - 100% of all of us will pass into eternity - make sure you are right with God today through Jesus Christ.
In John 14:6 Jesus said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
"Soldier up" and tell everyone you care about (if you know them or not) about how to find Salvation!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Proper Crowns - a copy of an email by evangelist Mark Cahill
I had this in my inbox today and thought I'd pass it on...
Proper Crowns (from Mark Cahill Ministries - I'll note I did changed his verses to NIV from King James)
As I am sitting here watching the memorial for Michael Jackson, many things come to mind. One is how quickly life can pass. Michael Jackson is from my generation. He is just a few years older than me. Back in the day, I used to listen to a lot of his music. Now it seems people want to talk about his music, his legacy, his money; and since he died, I have only had one thing on my mind: where is he now? Where is he spending eternity? Who did he say Jesus was during his lifetime? What Christians took the time to witness to Him? I am also wondering how many Christians who crossed his path in his 50 years on planet earth, are regretting that they did not take the time to boldly proclaim Biblical truths into his life that he so desperately needed.
One of the names given to Michael was the King of Pop. We also had Elvis, who was known as the King of Rock and Roll. Now we know that kings and queens have crowns. Royalty has always liked money, power, and the things that come with it. And if you are a Bible reader, you know that God’s Word talks about crowns as well.
The word crown shows up 82 times in the Bible. You have earthly crowns like the one that is being put on Queen Esther in Esther 2:17, and you have spiritual crowns.
1 Thessalonians 2:19 says, For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?
As a believer, our crown of rejoicing should be in the hope of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ! There is so much hopelessness in this world we live in, and it is probably only going to get worse. We need to give people hope, and that hope is only in the Lord.
2 Timothy 4:8 states, Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Is there anyone out there that is excited about His appearing?!! We should all be striving for the crown of righteousness that He will give out, but that crown will only go to the righteous.
James 1:12 says, Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Keep fighting against temptation. Fight hard against it. Keep loving Jesus above all else in this world. The crown of life awaits those who do.
1 Peter 5:4 states, And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
God’s crowns do not fade away. Make sure you get them when you die.
Revelations 2:10 says, Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Finish well in the race towards death. Don’t give in to the things of the world. Strive to receive the crown of life!
Revelation 4:10 tells us, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne..:
I want to make sure when I die that I have got crowns to lay at the feet of our Lord on His throne. You don’t want to be empty handed on that day.
But of course, the greatest crown of all had nothing to do with gold.
Matthew 27:29 says, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said.
You see the world hates this crown. This is the one they don’t want to wear, and don’t want to live for. Most people in the world today would rather have a crown of gold that will not make it past the grave. This crown shed the blood that can wash the world of its sins. But this world lives for self. It lives for what it sees, and not for what it can’t see.
As this world drifts farther and farther away from Jesus Christ and more and more into sin, hold on very tight to Jesus. The King of Kings; the true King of the universe; the only King that matters; will be showing up pretty soon; and if you are not here for His appearing, you will be there when you appear before Him on judgment day. Make sure you are ready.
Until the nets are full,
Mark Cahill
----------------------
P.S. I love his sign off, "until the nets are full"
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Proper Crowns (from Mark Cahill Ministries - I'll note I did changed his verses to NIV from King James)
As I am sitting here watching the memorial for Michael Jackson, many things come to mind. One is how quickly life can pass. Michael Jackson is from my generation. He is just a few years older than me. Back in the day, I used to listen to a lot of his music. Now it seems people want to talk about his music, his legacy, his money; and since he died, I have only had one thing on my mind: where is he now? Where is he spending eternity? Who did he say Jesus was during his lifetime? What Christians took the time to witness to Him? I am also wondering how many Christians who crossed his path in his 50 years on planet earth, are regretting that they did not take the time to boldly proclaim Biblical truths into his life that he so desperately needed.
One of the names given to Michael was the King of Pop. We also had Elvis, who was known as the King of Rock and Roll. Now we know that kings and queens have crowns. Royalty has always liked money, power, and the things that come with it. And if you are a Bible reader, you know that God’s Word talks about crowns as well.
The word crown shows up 82 times in the Bible. You have earthly crowns like the one that is being put on Queen Esther in Esther 2:17, and you have spiritual crowns.
1 Thessalonians 2:19 says, For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?
As a believer, our crown of rejoicing should be in the hope of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ! There is so much hopelessness in this world we live in, and it is probably only going to get worse. We need to give people hope, and that hope is only in the Lord.
2 Timothy 4:8 states, Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Is there anyone out there that is excited about His appearing?!! We should all be striving for the crown of righteousness that He will give out, but that crown will only go to the righteous.
James 1:12 says, Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Keep fighting against temptation. Fight hard against it. Keep loving Jesus above all else in this world. The crown of life awaits those who do.
1 Peter 5:4 states, And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
God’s crowns do not fade away. Make sure you get them when you die.
Revelations 2:10 says, Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Finish well in the race towards death. Don’t give in to the things of the world. Strive to receive the crown of life!
Revelation 4:10 tells us, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne..:
I want to make sure when I die that I have got crowns to lay at the feet of our Lord on His throne. You don’t want to be empty handed on that day.
But of course, the greatest crown of all had nothing to do with gold.
Matthew 27:29 says, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said.
You see the world hates this crown. This is the one they don’t want to wear, and don’t want to live for. Most people in the world today would rather have a crown of gold that will not make it past the grave. This crown shed the blood that can wash the world of its sins. But this world lives for self. It lives for what it sees, and not for what it can’t see.
As this world drifts farther and farther away from Jesus Christ and more and more into sin, hold on very tight to Jesus. The King of Kings; the true King of the universe; the only King that matters; will be showing up pretty soon; and if you are not here for His appearing, you will be there when you appear before Him on judgment day. Make sure you are ready.
Until the nets are full,
Mark Cahill
----------------------
P.S. I love his sign off, "until the nets are full"
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Captain's meditation on Jeremiah 1:4-10
This scripture passage is the call of God to Jeremiah to be His prophet.
Jeremiah 1:4-10 says... 4 The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." 6 "Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child." 7 But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. 9 Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. 10 See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant."
Just a couple of thoughts... (not original to me, but profound to me)....
The first is proclaim God's Word - the gospel - that salvation is only through trust in Jesus alone who lived, died for our sins, and rose from the dead. Do not be afraid of anyone or anything because He will deliver if necessary - but most of the time it just costs us discomfort and not our lives - so share the message of Jesus.
Listen to Catherine Booths comment on this passage... "I am tired of hearing the words 'I can't'. Jeremiah said, 'I am a child'; but the Lord didn't pat him on the back and say, Jeremiah, that is very good, I like that in you; your humility is beautiful.' Oh no! God didn't want any such mock humility. He reproved and rebuked it. I do not like the humility that is too humble to do as it is bid. When my children are too humble to do as they are bid, I pretty soon find a way to make them. I say, 'Go and do it!' The Lord wants us to 'go and do it'." - Catherine Booth
The second thought is that God will put His Word into our mouths - so when we speak God's Word (although it is with our voice and "sounds" like us - it is actually Him). God has given us His Word, His gospel, and our voices for the furtherment of His Kingdom - get out there and share with the world.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Jeremiah 1:4-10 says... 4 The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." 6 "Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child." 7 But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. 9 Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. 10 See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant."
Just a couple of thoughts... (not original to me, but profound to me)....
The first is proclaim God's Word - the gospel - that salvation is only through trust in Jesus alone who lived, died for our sins, and rose from the dead. Do not be afraid of anyone or anything because He will deliver if necessary - but most of the time it just costs us discomfort and not our lives - so share the message of Jesus.
Listen to Catherine Booths comment on this passage... "I am tired of hearing the words 'I can't'. Jeremiah said, 'I am a child'; but the Lord didn't pat him on the back and say, Jeremiah, that is very good, I like that in you; your humility is beautiful.' Oh no! God didn't want any such mock humility. He reproved and rebuked it. I do not like the humility that is too humble to do as it is bid. When my children are too humble to do as they are bid, I pretty soon find a way to make them. I say, 'Go and do it!' The Lord wants us to 'go and do it'." - Catherine Booth
The second thought is that God will put His Word into our mouths - so when we speak God's Word (although it is with our voice and "sounds" like us - it is actually Him). God has given us His Word, His gospel, and our voices for the furtherment of His Kingdom - get out there and share with the world.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
a phrophetic word
Hello soldiers, Friends and fellow followers of Jesus,
I just wanted to pass on this prophetic word given to me at camp this past week. Another salvationist (a new friend) prayed over me while feeling ill and I felt the best I had in weeks (praise be to God). In addition to that amazing relief from my illness he told me of a dream in which we had over 100 people coming to our corps. He then said, "are you ready?" and that it was to happen within a year! AMEN and "Let it be so Lord Jesus". May God by His power at work within His church and His saints accomplish this.
Just wanted to pass on the encouraging word - do you have doubts about this fellow saints of Homer? Remember that with God all things are possible - nothing is impossible with God - He can do immeasurable more than all we ask, dare, hope or imagine - if we abide in Him we will bear much fruit (because we are connected to the vine).
May God completely shatter what we have come to believe is "rational" growth. Lord give us a supernatural increase not because of us, but for YOUR GREAT NAME.
Now - to my soldiers and friends abroad we covet your prayers.
To my soldiers and fellow saints in Homer - preach the good news that Jesus died for the sins of the world, He rose again, and offers salvation to all who will repent of their sins, turn to Him alone and believe. Go live a transformed life of pure holiness unto the Lord. Then keep your eyes wide open looking for both opportunities and GROWTH for HIS KINGDOM.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
I just wanted to pass on this prophetic word given to me at camp this past week. Another salvationist (a new friend) prayed over me while feeling ill and I felt the best I had in weeks (praise be to God). In addition to that amazing relief from my illness he told me of a dream in which we had over 100 people coming to our corps. He then said, "are you ready?" and that it was to happen within a year! AMEN and "Let it be so Lord Jesus". May God by His power at work within His church and His saints accomplish this.
Just wanted to pass on the encouraging word - do you have doubts about this fellow saints of Homer? Remember that with God all things are possible - nothing is impossible with God - He can do immeasurable more than all we ask, dare, hope or imagine - if we abide in Him we will bear much fruit (because we are connected to the vine).
May God completely shatter what we have come to believe is "rational" growth. Lord give us a supernatural increase not because of us, but for YOUR GREAT NAME.
Now - to my soldiers and friends abroad we covet your prayers.
To my soldiers and fellow saints in Homer - preach the good news that Jesus died for the sins of the world, He rose again, and offers salvation to all who will repent of their sins, turn to Him alone and believe. Go live a transformed life of pure holiness unto the Lord. Then keep your eyes wide open looking for both opportunities and GROWTH for HIS KINGDOM.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Captain's meditation on Revelation 3:14-22
I have preached on, and heard many sermons and studies on the Laodicean church, but a comment in a sermon called "lukewarm no more" by Mark Cahill really touched me yesterday.
Go ahead and look up Revelation 3:14-22 and read God's Word for yourself.
After mentioning the words of Jesus, that because He knows their deeds and that they are neither hot nor cold he is going to spit (or vomit) them out of His mouth, we are reminded that this rebuke is because Jesus says I LOVE YOU.
I won't preach the whole passage now - but you really should read it.
After mentioning to this lukewarm church about how they make Jesus sick we read these lines...
verse 17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. 21 To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."
Even when I make Christ sick with my "lukewarm" living - He still loves me. I know this through and through, but as I considered the aspects of my life that are lukewarm and was convicted that He deserves so much more (and hotter) from my life - again I hear the reassuring words of God's love to me.
Today, if you are truly saved by trusting alone in Christ as your Savior, and have proof of your salvation seen in a life change and words and deeds to reflect what He has done for you,... and if you know you are lukewarm (perhaps in personal out-loud hot evangelism - or on fire holy living seeking only His glory in all things)... and if you feel conviction for it - know this - God's conviction, even rebuke, is a call from a Loving God who is calling you back to higher and "hotter" living.
Receive the loving call of Christ to return to being "fired up" for Him.
Let's live on fire for Christ today.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Go ahead and look up Revelation 3:14-22 and read God's Word for yourself.
After mentioning the words of Jesus, that because He knows their deeds and that they are neither hot nor cold he is going to spit (or vomit) them out of His mouth, we are reminded that this rebuke is because Jesus says I LOVE YOU.
I won't preach the whole passage now - but you really should read it.
After mentioning to this lukewarm church about how they make Jesus sick we read these lines...
verse 17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. 21 To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."
Even when I make Christ sick with my "lukewarm" living - He still loves me. I know this through and through, but as I considered the aspects of my life that are lukewarm and was convicted that He deserves so much more (and hotter) from my life - again I hear the reassuring words of God's love to me.
Today, if you are truly saved by trusting alone in Christ as your Savior, and have proof of your salvation seen in a life change and words and deeds to reflect what He has done for you,... and if you know you are lukewarm (perhaps in personal out-loud hot evangelism - or on fire holy living seeking only His glory in all things)... and if you feel conviction for it - know this - God's conviction, even rebuke, is a call from a Loving God who is calling you back to higher and "hotter" living.
Receive the loving call of Christ to return to being "fired up" for Him.
Let's live on fire for Christ today.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Sunday's Sermon - live and die with joy
Sorry that the audio is a little poor this week because of a recording error - it should be back to normal next week.
To listen to Sunday's sermon now, just click the play arrow here for audio or download options.
For a simple fill in the blank page and a written outline of this message see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF of my preaching 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 http://sermon.net/The_Salvation_Army_Homer
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
To listen to Sunday's sermon now, just click the play arrow here for audio or download options.
For a simple fill in the blank page and a written outline of this message see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF of my preaching 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 http://sermon.net/The_Salvation_Army_Homer
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Have a blessed Sunday! - A Camp Report
Hello soldiers, Friends, and fellow followers of Jesus Christ,
A great report having returned from camp. We had 90 kids between S.A.Y. (7-12 year olds) and Teen camp (13-18). Some interesting challenges - yes. Many troubled kids - yes. (This was not just for Salvation Army youth, but open to all the communities of Alaska).
I was only really a part of Teen Camp, but saw many make recommitments, heard many truly considering the things of Christ, saw an acquaintance from long ago (who has been away from "the church") come back with her family and even have the chance to minister to a young person. Her quote was "that young 13 year old girl has no idea how much she blessed me". What an amazing thing when God restores us both to Him and also to His service. I also got to see someone who Michelle and I have invested a lot into over the years serving beyond her comfort zone (after some time away from "the work").
Although physically and emotionally draining being right with the teens 24 hours a day - there were great opportunities and victories. One of my favorite quotes from camp was from a young man in my cabin asking if I was going to read again from the Bible before they went to sleep.
God is so good, the ministry of The Salvation Army King's Lake Camp was great, and the standard at how safe the camp was for everyone involved (on a child safety level) was extraordinary.
May God continue to bless the "camp" experience and produce fruit from all the seeds planted.
For your Sunday today - make sure you take time to read from His Holy Word, to seek Him in prayer, to lift up your voice in a time of Praise and Thanksgiving, and share His gospel with someone you care about (friend, family, or stranger) today.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
A great report having returned from camp. We had 90 kids between S.A.Y. (7-12 year olds) and Teen camp (13-18). Some interesting challenges - yes. Many troubled kids - yes. (This was not just for Salvation Army youth, but open to all the communities of Alaska).
I was only really a part of Teen Camp, but saw many make recommitments, heard many truly considering the things of Christ, saw an acquaintance from long ago (who has been away from "the church") come back with her family and even have the chance to minister to a young person. Her quote was "that young 13 year old girl has no idea how much she blessed me". What an amazing thing when God restores us both to Him and also to His service. I also got to see someone who Michelle and I have invested a lot into over the years serving beyond her comfort zone (after some time away from "the work").
Although physically and emotionally draining being right with the teens 24 hours a day - there were great opportunities and victories. One of my favorite quotes from camp was from a young man in my cabin asking if I was going to read again from the Bible before they went to sleep.
God is so good, the ministry of The Salvation Army King's Lake Camp was great, and the standard at how safe the camp was for everyone involved (on a child safety level) was extraordinary.
May God continue to bless the "camp" experience and produce fruit from all the seeds planted.
For your Sunday today - make sure you take time to read from His Holy Word, to seek Him in prayer, to lift up your voice in a time of Praise and Thanksgiving, and share His gospel with someone you care about (friend, family, or stranger) today.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
Captain Mark gone at camp
While I'm out, here are some verses I was meditating on recently.
Isaiah 8:9-13
9 Raise the war cry, you nations, and be shattered! Listen, all you distant lands. Prepare for battle, and be shattered! Prepare for battle, and be shattered! 10 Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us. Fear God 11 The LORD spoke to me with his strong hand upon me, warning me not to follow the way of this people. He said: 12 "Do not call conspiracy everything that these people call conspiracy; do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. 13 The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread, ...
Raise the war cry, God is with us, do not fear, The Lord Almighty is holy...
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Isaiah 8:9-13
9 Raise the war cry, you nations, and be shattered! Listen, all you distant lands. Prepare for battle, and be shattered! Prepare for battle, and be shattered! 10 Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us. Fear God 11 The LORD spoke to me with his strong hand upon me, warning me not to follow the way of this people. He said: 12 "Do not call conspiracy everything that these people call conspiracy; do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. 13 The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread, ...
Raise the war cry, God is with us, do not fear, The Lord Almighty is holy...
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Captain Mark gone to camp
While I'm out here are some verses I was meditating on recently.
Psalm 91
1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. 9 If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge- 10 then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. 14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. 15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation."
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Psalm 91
1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. 9 If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge- 10 then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. 14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. 15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation."
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Captain Mark gone to camp
While I'm out - here are some verses I've meditated on recently.
Psalm 84
1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. 3 Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young— a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God. 4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. Selah 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. 6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion. 8 Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob. Selah 9 Look upon our shield, O God; look with favor on your anointed one. 10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. 11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. 12 O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.
Live holy, Preach Jesus!
Psalm 84
1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. 3 Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young— a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God. 4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. Selah 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. 6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion. 8 Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob. Selah 9 Look upon our shield, O God; look with favor on your anointed one. 10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. 11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. 12 O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.
Live holy, Preach Jesus!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Captain Mark gone to camp
While I'm out - here are some verses I've meditated on recently.
Isaiah 30 Woe to the Obstinate Nation
1 "Woe to the obstinate children," declares the LORD, "to those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; 2 who go down to Egypt without consulting me; who look for help to Pharaoh's protection, to Egypt's shade for refuge. 3 But Pharaoh's protection will be to your shame, Egypt's shade will bring you disgrace. 4 Though they have officials in Zoan and their envoys have arrived in Hanes, 5 everyone will be put to shame because of a people useless to them, who bring neither help nor advantage, but only shame and disgrace." 6 An oracle concerning the animals of the Negev: Through a land of hardship and distress, of lions and lionesses, of adders and darting snakes, the envoys carry their riches on donkeys' backs, their treasures on the humps of camels, to that unprofitable nation, 7 to Egypt, whose help is utterly useless. Therefore I call her Rahab the Do-Nothing. 8 Go now, write it on a tablet for them, inscribe it on a scroll, that for the days to come it may be an everlasting witness. 9 These are rebellious people, deceitful children, children unwilling to listen to the LORD's instruction. 10 They say to the seers, "See no more visions!" and to the prophets, "Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things, prophesy illusions. 11 Leave this way, get off this path, and stop confronting us with the Holy One of Israel!" 12 Therefore, this is what the Holy One of Israel says: "Because you have rejected this message, relied on oppression and depended on deceit, 13 this sin will become for you like a high wall, cracked and bulging, that collapses suddenly, in an instant. 14 It will break in pieces like pottery, shattered so mercilessly that among its pieces not a fragment will be found for taking coals from a hearth or scooping water out of a cistern." 15 This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it. 16 You said, 'No, we will flee on horses.' Therefore you will flee! You said, 'We will ride off on swift horses.' Therefore your pursuers will be swift! 17 A thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will all flee away, till you are left like a flagstaff on a mountaintop, like a banner on a hill." 18 Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! 19 O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. 20 Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. 21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." 22 Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!" 23 He will also send you rain for the seed you sow in the ground, and the food that comes from the land will be rich and plentiful. In that day your cattle will graze in broad meadows. 24 The oxen and donkeys that work the soil will eat fodder and mash, spread out with fork and shovel. 25 In the day of great slaughter, when the towers fall, streams of water will flow on every high mountain and every lofty hill. 26 The moon will shine like the sun, and the sunlight will be seven times brighter, like the light of seven full days, when the LORD binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Isaiah 30 Woe to the Obstinate Nation
1 "Woe to the obstinate children," declares the LORD, "to those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; 2 who go down to Egypt without consulting me; who look for help to Pharaoh's protection, to Egypt's shade for refuge. 3 But Pharaoh's protection will be to your shame, Egypt's shade will bring you disgrace. 4 Though they have officials in Zoan and their envoys have arrived in Hanes, 5 everyone will be put to shame because of a people useless to them, who bring neither help nor advantage, but only shame and disgrace." 6 An oracle concerning the animals of the Negev: Through a land of hardship and distress, of lions and lionesses, of adders and darting snakes, the envoys carry their riches on donkeys' backs, their treasures on the humps of camels, to that unprofitable nation, 7 to Egypt, whose help is utterly useless. Therefore I call her Rahab the Do-Nothing. 8 Go now, write it on a tablet for them, inscribe it on a scroll, that for the days to come it may be an everlasting witness. 9 These are rebellious people, deceitful children, children unwilling to listen to the LORD's instruction. 10 They say to the seers, "See no more visions!" and to the prophets, "Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things, prophesy illusions. 11 Leave this way, get off this path, and stop confronting us with the Holy One of Israel!" 12 Therefore, this is what the Holy One of Israel says: "Because you have rejected this message, relied on oppression and depended on deceit, 13 this sin will become for you like a high wall, cracked and bulging, that collapses suddenly, in an instant. 14 It will break in pieces like pottery, shattered so mercilessly that among its pieces not a fragment will be found for taking coals from a hearth or scooping water out of a cistern." 15 This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it. 16 You said, 'No, we will flee on horses.' Therefore you will flee! You said, 'We will ride off on swift horses.' Therefore your pursuers will be swift! 17 A thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will all flee away, till you are left like a flagstaff on a mountaintop, like a banner on a hill." 18 Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! 19 O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. 20 Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. 21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." 22 Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!" 23 He will also send you rain for the seed you sow in the ground, and the food that comes from the land will be rich and plentiful. In that day your cattle will graze in broad meadows. 24 The oxen and donkeys that work the soil will eat fodder and mash, spread out with fork and shovel. 25 In the day of great slaughter, when the towers fall, streams of water will flow on every high mountain and every lofty hill. 26 The moon will shine like the sun, and the sunlight will be seven times brighter, like the light of seven full days, when the LORD binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Sunday's Sermon - Looking inward with Joy - a series in Philippians
To listen to Sunday's sermon now, just click the play arrow here for audio or download options.
For a simple notes outline this week see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF of my preaching 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 http://sermon.net/The_Salvation_Army_Homer
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
For a simple notes outline this week see the full size sermon player at the bottom of this page - next to today's title is a PDF of my preaching 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 http://sermon.net/The_Salvation_Army_Homer
God bless your study!
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Off to camp
Hello Soldiers, Friends, and fellow followers of Jesus,
Today I am leaving to take 5 kids to our camp in Palmer / Wasilla area. Please pray for the two camps that are happening Salvation Army Youth (S.A.Y. Camp) and Teen Camp. I've heard there will be a great turn out this year.
I will be leading some of the teen courses.
Please pray first and foremost that God is glorified in all we do, ask for a blessing that we will all have a great week, that young people will come to know Jesus, and for safe travel and camp times for all those coming from across the state.
Since I'll be away, I have set the blog to automatically post some scriptures I have looked at recently. I'll highlight some that I have meditated on, but will leave you to your own to meditate on the scripture itself. Lord willing I will write more upon a safe return, hoping to bring news of a God glorifying week.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Today I am leaving to take 5 kids to our camp in Palmer / Wasilla area. Please pray for the two camps that are happening Salvation Army Youth (S.A.Y. Camp) and Teen Camp. I've heard there will be a great turn out this year.
I will be leading some of the teen courses.
Please pray first and foremost that God is glorified in all we do, ask for a blessing that we will all have a great week, that young people will come to know Jesus, and for safe travel and camp times for all those coming from across the state.
Since I'll be away, I have set the blog to automatically post some scriptures I have looked at recently. I'll highlight some that I have meditated on, but will leave you to your own to meditate on the scripture itself. Lord willing I will write more upon a safe return, hoping to bring news of a God glorifying week.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Have a Blessed Sunday - take up thy cross and follow
Consider these words by Alfred Ackly (1887-1960)
From our Songbook #978
I walked one day along a country road
1. I walked one day along a country road,
And there a stranger journeyed too;
Bent low beneath the burden of his load;
It was a cross, a cross I knew.
Take up thy cross and follow me,
I hear the blessed Saviour call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave his all?
2. I cried: Lord Jesus! and he spoke my name;
I saw his hands all bruised and torn;
I stooped to kiss away the marks of shame,
The shame for me that he had borne.
3. O let me bear thy cross dear Lord, I cried,
And lo, a cross for me appeared;
The one, forgotten, I had cast aside,
The one so long that I had feared.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
From our Songbook #978
I walked one day along a country road
1. I walked one day along a country road,
And there a stranger journeyed too;
Bent low beneath the burden of his load;
It was a cross, a cross I knew.
Take up thy cross and follow me,
I hear the blessed Saviour call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave his all?
2. I cried: Lord Jesus! and he spoke my name;
I saw his hands all bruised and torn;
I stooped to kiss away the marks of shame,
The shame for me that he had borne.
3. O let me bear thy cross dear Lord, I cried,
And lo, a cross for me appeared;
The one, forgotten, I had cast aside,
The one so long that I had feared.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Know the law and you could win $20,000 Free!
Watch this first - Check out this 6 minute video that explains the whole thing...
Make sure to sign up (it's free)- it takes about 5 minutes to watch the 3 steps before the "sign up page".
In case the "learn the law" video is slow on their website - you can view this you-tube version.
Friday, July 10, 2009
No strange place for the gospel (article from christianitytoday.com)
Passing on this article from Christianity today - click here for the original article
http://www.christianitytoday.com/outreach/articles/nostrangeplaceforthegospel.html
No Strange Place for the Gospel
We must be willing to share the Good News to anyone anywhere. by Diane R. Kinney
Thud-thud-thud. The rhythmic sound bounced off the empty Army barracks in the misty, predawn Kansas morning. The men and women of the 49th Ordnance company were out for a morning run.
"Listen up, people," rang out the sergeant's baritone voice. Whenever he started a cadence in that way, we knew that we would be having some fun.
The sergeant started us singing the "Amen" chorus from the movie "Lilies of the Field."
(I put the you-tube below in case you haven't heard it)
We hesitated for a second, as we had the battalion chaplain running with us this morning. We did not want to seem disrespectful. We were a well-disciplined team, however, so we sang the cadence.
As we finished, from the back of the formation came a voice: "Keep on singing!" It was the chaplain. So we sang another round. Then he told us to sing a little softer. We did. He told us to continue singing. To a quiet background of "Amen, amen, amen … " the chaplain began to preach. For the next three miles he told of Jesus. I remember thinking that it was a strange place for the gospel.
But as I have come to a greater understanding of Jesus' ministry, I now realize that there is no strange place for the gospel. The Good News of Jesus Christ does not belong just inside the four walls of a church.
The chaplain knew that the gospel needs to be brought to where the people are.
Jesus did the same thing. He brought the Good News of salvation to the people, to the marketplace, to the world. He preached on a boat, on a mountaintop, in fields and houses, hilltops and synagogues. Everywhere that Jesus went, he proclaimed the kingdom of heaven.
With those examples, I have learned to take the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people. I have spoken about the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ to a biker outside a strip club. I have told people about God's love on a merry-go-round, in a grocery store, on airplanes; in Minneapolis, in Amsterdam, in Jerusalem, in New York City. Wherever the people are, I tell them that God loves them. Evangelism is a lifestyle and the gospel has no boundaries.
Diane R. Kinney is staff artist for Decision magazine, and a co-leader for a street-witnessing ministry. She lives in Minneapolis, Minn., and attends Bethany Missionary Church (nondenominational), in Bloomington.
© 2002 Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. This article first appeared in Decision magazine.
-------------
Live holy, preach Jesus!
http://www.christianitytoday.com/outreach/articles/nostrangeplaceforthegospel.html
No Strange Place for the Gospel
We must be willing to share the Good News to anyone anywhere. by Diane R. Kinney
Thud-thud-thud. The rhythmic sound bounced off the empty Army barracks in the misty, predawn Kansas morning. The men and women of the 49th Ordnance company were out for a morning run.
"Listen up, people," rang out the sergeant's baritone voice. Whenever he started a cadence in that way, we knew that we would be having some fun.
The sergeant started us singing the "Amen" chorus from the movie "Lilies of the Field."
(I put the you-tube below in case you haven't heard it)
We hesitated for a second, as we had the battalion chaplain running with us this morning. We did not want to seem disrespectful. We were a well-disciplined team, however, so we sang the cadence.
As we finished, from the back of the formation came a voice: "Keep on singing!" It was the chaplain. So we sang another round. Then he told us to sing a little softer. We did. He told us to continue singing. To a quiet background of "Amen, amen, amen … " the chaplain began to preach. For the next three miles he told of Jesus. I remember thinking that it was a strange place for the gospel.
But as I have come to a greater understanding of Jesus' ministry, I now realize that there is no strange place for the gospel. The Good News of Jesus Christ does not belong just inside the four walls of a church.
The chaplain knew that the gospel needs to be brought to where the people are.
Jesus did the same thing. He brought the Good News of salvation to the people, to the marketplace, to the world. He preached on a boat, on a mountaintop, in fields and houses, hilltops and synagogues. Everywhere that Jesus went, he proclaimed the kingdom of heaven.
With those examples, I have learned to take the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people. I have spoken about the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ to a biker outside a strip club. I have told people about God's love on a merry-go-round, in a grocery store, on airplanes; in Minneapolis, in Amsterdam, in Jerusalem, in New York City. Wherever the people are, I tell them that God loves them. Evangelism is a lifestyle and the gospel has no boundaries.
Diane R. Kinney is staff artist for Decision magazine, and a co-leader for a street-witnessing ministry. She lives in Minneapolis, Minn., and attends Bethany Missionary Church (nondenominational), in Bloomington.
© 2002 Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. This article first appeared in Decision magazine.
-------------
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Praise report from last night
Hello soldiers, friends, and fellow followers of Jesus,
Just a quick update - if you live in Homer, or go to the corps, but are missing out on Wednesday night meal and bible study, you are really missing out on a great time of fellowship and time focusing on the things of God.
We are currently going through a book by Mark Cahill "one thing you can't do in heaven".
Of the praise reports and highlights we had a corps member return from hip surgery, with a walker, a little slower than usual, but didn't want to miss out on the food, fellowship, and time in the word.
We also had one corps member admit that he finally realizes that the only time we loose when sharing our faith is when we say nothing - otherwise it's a win, win, win situation (we either plant a seed, see someone saved, or are rejected for the cause of Christ - 1 Peter 4:14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.)
My 10 year old daughter realized that when we share the gospel and are mistreated we are in the company of the prophets of God!
Luke 6:22-23 Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. "Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets.
Another corps member began to realize that it's not that we "got" to witness, but that we "get" to witness.
As I will be out next week we had a young man offer to lead in my absence (his first time stepping out in faith to "lead" a study) -God is really moving in his life.
All in all a great night, we ended sharing prayer for one another around the table and talking about opportunities to share our faith.
If you live in the Homer area - or are a church member missing out - make time to come by for a meal and study.
God is good all the time.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Just a quick update - if you live in Homer, or go to the corps, but are missing out on Wednesday night meal and bible study, you are really missing out on a great time of fellowship and time focusing on the things of God.
We are currently going through a book by Mark Cahill "one thing you can't do in heaven".
Of the praise reports and highlights we had a corps member return from hip surgery, with a walker, a little slower than usual, but didn't want to miss out on the food, fellowship, and time in the word.
We also had one corps member admit that he finally realizes that the only time we loose when sharing our faith is when we say nothing - otherwise it's a win, win, win situation (we either plant a seed, see someone saved, or are rejected for the cause of Christ - 1 Peter 4:14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.)
My 10 year old daughter realized that when we share the gospel and are mistreated we are in the company of the prophets of God!
Luke 6:22-23 Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. "Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets.
Another corps member began to realize that it's not that we "got" to witness, but that we "get" to witness.
As I will be out next week we had a young man offer to lead in my absence (his first time stepping out in faith to "lead" a study) -God is really moving in his life.
All in all a great night, we ended sharing prayer for one another around the table and talking about opportunities to share our faith.
If you live in the Homer area - or are a church member missing out - make time to come by for a meal and study.
God is good all the time.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Poorly placed trust?
The story is told that a national magazine assigned a photographer to take pictures of a forest fire. They told him a small plane would be waiting at the airport to fly him over the fire.
The photographer arrived at the airstrip just an hour before sundown. Sure enough, a small Cessna airplane stood waiting.
He jumped in with his equipment and shouted, "Let's go!" The pilot, a tense-looking man, turned the plane into the wind, and soon they were in the air, though flying erratically.
"Fly over the north side of the fire," said the photographer, "and make several low-level passes."
"Why?" asked the nervous pilot.
"Because I'm going to take pictures!" yelled the photographer. "I'm a photographer, and photographers take pictures."
The pilot replied, "You mean you're not the flight instructor?"
—Source unknown; submitted by Brett Kays to churchlaughs.com
Make sure you trust in no one else than Jesus for your Salvation. Jesus alone saves.
Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Sharing your faith - online and off
Hello soldiers and fellow followers of Jesus,
I just wanted to brag on a young adult who is really striving to share his faith on a new level. He is currently doing some on-line witnessing. Towards the end of our talk he expressed he hoped the conversation of spiritual things wouldn't hurt the friendship, and we agreed (after some honest thought) that a true friend would risk anything to keep another friend out of hell. We also said that although we should try not to be offensive, we must be true to what we believe, and the gospel.
Why don't you risk sharing your faith today, speak to those around you about sin, hell, judgment, heaven, Christ, and salvation. One scenario is you share your faith and then leave it at you are always open to talk if they have questions, until then they are in your prayers, and stay friends. Another scenario is somehow they quit being your friend, but you have told them about the things of eternity and they may someday escape hell and find heaven through Jesus (trust me, they will be your friends there!) One other option is to keep your "surface" level friendship and keep the gospel to yourself - not only will you be disobeying your Lord's command to share the gospel - but your friend may spend eternity in hell (trust me, they will not be your friend if they end up there because you never spoke to them about how Jesus can save them for eternity).
Praise be to God! Soldiers and salvationists are getting motivated to share their faith with their actions and a matching message with their mouth. How are you doing? What friend do you know that you still haven't told about Jesus! Why not talk to them today - online or off.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
I just wanted to brag on a young adult who is really striving to share his faith on a new level. He is currently doing some on-line witnessing. Towards the end of our talk he expressed he hoped the conversation of spiritual things wouldn't hurt the friendship, and we agreed (after some honest thought) that a true friend would risk anything to keep another friend out of hell. We also said that although we should try not to be offensive, we must be true to what we believe, and the gospel.
Why don't you risk sharing your faith today, speak to those around you about sin, hell, judgment, heaven, Christ, and salvation. One scenario is you share your faith and then leave it at you are always open to talk if they have questions, until then they are in your prayers, and stay friends. Another scenario is somehow they quit being your friend, but you have told them about the things of eternity and they may someday escape hell and find heaven through Jesus (trust me, they will be your friends there!) One other option is to keep your "surface" level friendship and keep the gospel to yourself - not only will you be disobeying your Lord's command to share the gospel - but your friend may spend eternity in hell (trust me, they will not be your friend if they end up there because you never spoke to them about how Jesus can save them for eternity).
Praise be to God! Soldiers and salvationists are getting motivated to share their faith with their actions and a matching message with their mouth. How are you doing? What friend do you know that you still haven't told about Jesus! Why not talk to them today - online or off.
Live holy, preach Jesus!
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