(1) One side of the coin....
"Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake." Psm.115:1.
We are all born with a destiny, determined by God's own sovereign will and His foreknowledge of our own free will choices.
From before my beginning, my Creator knew exactly what my life would consist of and what I would think, say and do ... good or bad. He did not program me to do His will or to do evil, but gave me a mind, a predisposition and a will to choose. I have not always done the perfect will of God, even when I knew it. I cannot even say I always did my best to do the will of God. Nor can I say I always tried to do my best. But I can honestly say, I tried to try to do my best.
I was not the son I could have been if I had simply done my best, but I tried to try to be a son of honor to my parents. Neither was I the husband or father I could and should have been... if I had done my best. I always tried to try to be a good husband and father, but I faltered many times. And more importantly, I was not always the Christian I could have, and absolutely should have been ... God knows that better than I. He also knows, and always has known, that I would never rise to the heights of goodness and faithfulness He set before me, as other, greater men of God have obviously accomplished, walking more closely to Him.
In addition to my great God's foreknowledge of my few successes and many failures, He has always known that my fluctuating commitment to Him was, for me, an effort to even try to try to always do His will with my life.
In these last days of my time on this earth, I am peacefully content, because I know He loves me, to give account of myself to Him. I have His word in my heart that "By grace, through faith, I am saved and that not of myself; it is His gift to me, not of my works, lest I should be vainly boastful."
It is not through humility that I cannot boast of any positive accomplishments, but because I have more often failed than succeeded and have done nothing worth while which God, Himself, did not do through me... a simple by-stander and witness to His greatness and goodness.
(2) The other side of the coin....
"For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice is known by multitude of words." Ecc.5:3.
Only God knows the worth or worthlessness of my busy life. Even I do not know, but He has always known before the beginning of time and I shall give an accounting for all I have done and haven't done ... and so shall we all.
I write these words to be read, by whomever passes by, that nobody who looks upon my life and ministry and the things I may be given credit or blame for, will understand that all the glory belongs to God and all the blame belongs to me. So do not seek to live up to what you may think that I am ...."But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matt.6:33. Seek to be Christlike. Jesus is the standard. His likeness is the goal.
The Apostle Paul wrote a similar avowal and confession in Romans 7. Read it. RB
Romans 7:14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
Romans 7:15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
Romans 7:16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Romans 7:17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but howto perform that which is good I find not.
Romans 7:19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Romans 7:20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
Romans 7:21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
Romans 7:22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
Romans 7:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Romans 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
Romans 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Volunteering For Guilt, Sickness, Pain, Fear And Death
Anyone who thinks they can accept an invitation to dance with the devil and walk away, with impunity, doesn't understand the infectious nature of voluntarily embracing evil. "The wages of sin is death...." (Rom.6:23), is not just referring to the final separation from God in the "second death" (Rom.20:14). It is also alluding to the fact that doing evil drains the physical and spiritual life out of one's mind and body. Sin kills people physically and mentally... even Christians. Whether it is promiscuity, addiction, stealing, drunkenness, hatred, lying and even gluttony, not the worst of sins, but with serious consequences. And, compounding the damage sin does to the body and mind, is the additional damage guilt, regret and worry over it, does to the entirety of a person. Volunteering for sin is volunteering for sickness, pain and death. We all sin, but repentance, to God, is the only remedy for relief and restoration. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9.
What did Jesus do when He was tempted of the devil for 40 days and nights? He fasted, prayed to the Father and quoted scripture to the devil. That is a powerful formula for overcoming temptation. Jesus knows exactly how difficult is the allurement of sin, but He also knows how to overcome its devilish temptations.
"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb.4:15. The Spirit of Christ dwells in us and will help us as we seek an escape from temptation by following Christ's example....
"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." 1 Cor.10:13.
Take the strength and comfort in God's word. With His help you can do it. RB
What did Jesus do when He was tempted of the devil for 40 days and nights? He fasted, prayed to the Father and quoted scripture to the devil. That is a powerful formula for overcoming temptation. Jesus knows exactly how difficult is the allurement of sin, but He also knows how to overcome its devilish temptations.
"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb.4:15. The Spirit of Christ dwells in us and will help us as we seek an escape from temptation by following Christ's example....
"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." 1 Cor.10:13.
Take the strength and comfort in God's word. With His help you can do it. RB
Saturday, February 6, 2016
If There Were No God There Would Be No Atheists
True "faith" in a falsehood is impossible. So remember this ... The evolutionist lives with constant doubt and is vulnerable to your faith and witness.
How strange is the existence of this contradictory category of people who are here, but were not created; Real people whose primary focus is upon a God who does not exist; People whose life has no purpose beyond their own lust, hunger, sleep, success, and survival; If there is no God, there is no justifiable moral standard; And yet they seek to convince others that their unbelief, in an obvious, universal truth, is superior to believing in it.
The Latin, Greek and Hebrew meaning of the word "science" is "true, studied, certainty of knowledge". Biblical faith is derived from reading, hearing and studying the Bible, which imparts its true knowledge and says of itself, "So then faith cometh by hearing .... the word of God." Romans 10:17. Faith, therefore, as is God's science, "true, studied, certainty of knowledge" and thus, an essential element in God's universal creation ... by employment of His "true" science of which He is also Creator. RB
So ... ".... keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called." 1Tim.6:20.
If there were no God, there would be no Atheists.
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
All 50 States Reference Their Alliance With God In Their Constitutional Preambles
Now what does that tell you about the grassroots Citizens and Founding Fathers of the 50 united states of America?
Each and every U.S. State, from the 1776 original ones to Hawaii in 1959, built their State Constitutions squarely upon a "Preamble" confession of faith in the great God of our nation and of our Forefathers. That fact cannot be denied. Here are all 50, first sentence, Preamble Confessions of faith in the God of the Bible.
As a Texan, I call your attention to the fact that Texas is a "Republic". RB
The Preambles Of All 50 States Of The United States
Alabama 1901, Preamble. We the people of the State of Alabama, invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish the following Constitution.
Alaska 1956, Preamble. We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land.
Arizona 1911, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution...
Arkansas 1874, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arkansas, grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of government...
California 1879, Preamble. We, the People of the State of California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.
Colorado 1876, Preamble. We, the people of Colorado, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe.
Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy.
Delaware 1897, Preamble. Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences.
Florida 1885, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Florida, grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this Constitution...
Georgia 1777, Preamble. We, the people of Georgia, relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution...
Hawaii 1959, Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for Divine Guidance Establish this Constitution.
Idaho 1889, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.
Illinois 1870, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
Indiana 1851, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our form of government.
Iowa 1857, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Iowa, grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings establish this Constitution.
Kansas 1859, Preamble. We, the people of Kansas, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution.
Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties...
Louisiana 1921, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy.
Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity . And imploring His aid and direction.
Maryland 1776, Preamble. We, the people of the state of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...
Massachusetts 1780, Preamble. We...the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe ... In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction ..
Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this Constitution.
Minnesota, 1857, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings:
Mississippi 1890, Preamble. We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.
Missouri 1845, Preamble. We, the people of Missouri, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness .. Establish this Constitution
Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution .
Nebraska 1875, Preamble. We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom .. Establish this Constitution.
Nevada 1864, Preamble. We the people of the State of Nevada, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom establish this Constitution ...
New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience.
New Jersey 1844, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
New Mexico 1911, Preamble. We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty
New York 1846, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings.
North Carolina 1868, Preamble. We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those
North Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain...
Ohio 1852, Preamble. We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common
Oklahoma 1907, Preamble. Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty . establish this ..
Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences..
Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble. We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance
Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble. We, the people of he State of South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution.
South Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of South Dakota , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties .
Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their conscience...
Texas 1845, Preamble. We the People of the Republic of Texas, acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God.
Utah 1896, Preamble. Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we establish this Constitution. Vermont 1777, Preamble. Whereas all government ought to .enable the individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man ..
Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI Religion, or the Duty which we owe our Creator can be directed only by Reason and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each other .
Washington 1889, Preamble. We the People of the State of Washington, grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution
West Virginia 1872, Preamble. Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virginia a reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon God ...
Wisconsin 1848, Preamble. We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility
Wyoming 1890, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Wyoming, grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties .. establish this Constitution.
After reviewing acknowledgments of God from all 50 State Constitutions, one is faced with the prospect that maybe, just maybe, the ACLU and the out-of-control federal courts are wrong...
"Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants." - William Penn
"Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions ...." Heb.11:33.
Whereas these State Preambles, written by each state's representatives according to the will of the citizens of their states, make a first sentence confession of their belief in the God of the Bible, they, even as the heros of the faith listed in Heb.11:33, who stopped the mouths of lions, these American heros "stopped the mouths of" Atheists and Agnostics. RB
Each and every U.S. State, from the 1776 original ones to Hawaii in 1959, built their State Constitutions squarely upon a "Preamble" confession of faith in the great God of our nation and of our Forefathers. That fact cannot be denied. Here are all 50, first sentence, Preamble Confessions of faith in the God of the Bible.
As a Texan, I call your attention to the fact that Texas is a "Republic". RB
Alabama 1901, Preamble. We the people of the State of Alabama, invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish the following Constitution.
Alaska 1956, Preamble. We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land.
Arizona 1911, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution...
Arkansas 1874, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arkansas, grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of government...
California 1879, Preamble. We, the People of the State of California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.
Colorado 1876, Preamble. We, the people of Colorado, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe.
Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy.
Delaware 1897, Preamble. Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences.
Florida 1885, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Florida, grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this Constitution...
Georgia 1777, Preamble. We, the people of Georgia, relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution...
Hawaii 1959, Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for Divine Guidance Establish this Constitution.
Idaho 1889, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.
Illinois 1870, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
Indiana 1851, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our form of government.
Iowa 1857, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Iowa, grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings establish this Constitution.
Kansas 1859, Preamble. We, the people of Kansas, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution.
Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties...
Louisiana 1921, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy.
Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity . And imploring His aid and direction.
Maryland 1776, Preamble. We, the people of the state of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...
Massachusetts 1780, Preamble. We...the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe ... In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction ..
Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this Constitution.
Minnesota, 1857, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings:
Mississippi 1890, Preamble. We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.
Missouri 1845, Preamble. We, the people of Missouri, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness .. Establish this Constitution
Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution .
Nebraska 1875, Preamble. We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom .. Establish this Constitution.
Nevada 1864, Preamble. We the people of the State of Nevada, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom establish this Constitution ...
New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience.
New Jersey 1844, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
New Mexico 1911, Preamble. We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty
New York 1846, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings.
North Carolina 1868, Preamble. We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those
North Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain...
Ohio 1852, Preamble. We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common
Oklahoma 1907, Preamble. Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty . establish this ..
Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences..
Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble. We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance
Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble. We, the people of he State of South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution.
South Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of South Dakota , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties .
Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their conscience...
Texas 1845, Preamble. We the People of the Republic of Texas, acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God.
Utah 1896, Preamble. Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we establish this Constitution. Vermont 1777, Preamble. Whereas all government ought to .enable the individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man ..
Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI Religion, or the Duty which we owe our Creator can be directed only by Reason and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each other .
Washington 1889, Preamble. We the People of the State of Washington, grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution
West Virginia 1872, Preamble. Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virginia a reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon God ...
Wisconsin 1848, Preamble. We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility
Wyoming 1890, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Wyoming, grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties .. establish this Constitution.
After reviewing acknowledgments of God from all 50 State Constitutions, one is faced with the prospect that maybe, just maybe, the ACLU and the out-of-control federal courts are wrong...
"Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants." - William Penn
"Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions ...." Heb.11:33.
Whereas these State Preambles, written by each state's representatives according to the will of the citizens of their states, make a first sentence confession of their belief in the God of the Bible, they, even as the heros of the faith listed in Heb.11:33, who stopped the mouths of lions, these American heros "stopped the mouths of" Atheists and Agnostics. RB
Friday, January 29, 2016
Why Is Blasphemy Of The Holy Spirit Unforgivable?
It Leaves No Further Possibility Of Faith.
There are many sins. All are forgivable but one. Even the sin of rejecting Christ is forgivable if the rejection is out of a heart of doubt or unbelief, and if the unbeliever later repents and believes in Jesus Christ as his/her Lord and Savior. Every adult is doubtful and unbelieving ... before they repent and believe. But, it is different, and unforgivable, when it is "Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit", of which Jesus spoke in these two verses....
"Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, (Jesus) it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come." Matt.12:31-32.
Why does Jesus say that speaking against Him (Jesus, "the Son of man"), and other blasphemies will be forgiven ... "but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven"? A person may not be aware of exactly who Jesus is, whether the Bible is true or not, whether God is true or not, and speak against all of it, but later, believe, repent and be forgiven and saved, as was Paul. The same is not true of the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. Here is why. The Holy Spirit's place in the Trinity is to "prove" to human hearts their guilt of sin, their need for righteousness and the certainty of judgement. When the Holy Spirit has "proven" and convinced the lost soul of his need for Christ, forgiveness and redemption, and that soul knows God is real and Jesus came to save him, but he still rejects, with rebellion, what the Holy Spirit has convinced him of .... that is Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit proved God's case, but the guilty sinner not only rejected what he now knew to be true, but took sides against it.
This is what Jesus was alluding to when He said, "And when he (the Holy Spirit) is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment .... Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more." John 16:8 & 10. Whereas no man has ever seen the face of God (Jn.1:18) because God does not personally appear to men, and Jesus came to bring the message of God and the Gospel of salvation, it is the Holy Spirit who "reproves" or proves the truths of God to the hearts of men. What God ordained, Jesus delivered, but it is the Holy Spirit who convicts, convinces, and "proves" to the very souls of humanity that it is all true. So when the Holy Spirit has thoroughly proved and convinced a person that God is real, and they are sinners ripe for judgement, in need of righteousness, and that Jesus died for their sins and will save them, and they know that they know that it is true ... but reject the witness of the Holy Spirit anyway and take sides against Him, that is unforgivable. That is the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, and that is the sin of Lucifer.
Saul of Tarsus blasphemed Christians and Christ Himself, and persecuted them,
("Saul, breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord...." Acts 9:1) but he did not blaspheme the Holy Spirit. He was fanatically religious but sincerely believed he was "doing God a service" Jn.16:2. He did not believe Jesus was the Christ (Messiah) of the Jews until Jesus struck him down with light on the Road to Damascus. That light not only blinded Saul, but opened his spiritual eyes and he said, "Lord who art thou" and Jesus sent him to a Christian, Ananias, to hear the Gospel, be saved and baptized. Saul's name was changed to Paul, when he was saved, and he later testified ..."(I) was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 1 Tim.1:13. If he had not done it "ignorantly", but knowingly, he would not have obtained God's mercy but would have been guilty of blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. This verse signifies the difference between the sin of rejection done "ignorantly in unbelief" and the sin of rejection done "rebelliously with certain knowledge" that you are wrong and Christ right. Unrepented of rejection done "Ignorantly in unbelief" is forgivable if repented of in acceptance of Christ by grace through faith. Not so with the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit when a person already knows the truth of Christ with certainty and still rejects the witness of the Holy Spirit that Jesus is the prophesied Messiah, Son of God, and Savior. You see, believing in Jesus is of no benefit if the believing sinner rejects Christ as his Savior anyway, and refuses to repent and surrender his will and life to the LORD. "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." James 1:17.
Even the Devil "believes in Jesus", but does not submit in sincere repentance and acceptance of Him as his LORD and cannot now do so. It is too late for him. Satan has always known exactly who Jesus was and is, but it didn't save him because he knew the truth about God and Christ before Genesis one, when he was Lucifer, in heaven with God, Christ and the Holy Spirit. But Lucifer rejected the God he knew was God and fought against Him. (Isa.14:12-15). That is Unforgivable and the reason Lucifer can never be saved. He already has known the truth of God and hated it and fought against what he knew to be the truth of God. "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble." James 2:19. You believe there is one God? Good for you ... but the devils believe that much.
Then there was the case of Legion, the Demoniac, demon possessed, lost, miserable, controlled by Satan who himself, recognized and knew who Jesus was. But Legion, when he heard Jesus, did not commit the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. Instead, he accepted Christ, was saved and delivered from Satan. But the devils who already knew exactly who Jesus was, and hated Him anyway, were cast out of Legion into the swine. Mark 5:1-17.
There are few sins so bad as religious heresy and corruption. All of the High Council, Religious Court (Sanhedrin) of the Jews, had strong knowledge of their coming Messiah, and knew Jesus fit the description perfectly, but just one of them resisted the others and came to ask Jesus sincere questions, under cover of darkness.... and was converted. "There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." John 3:1-2. Note Nicodemus said, "we know" referring to the Jewish High Council of which he was a member. That body of Old Testament scholars "knew" who Jesus was, and rejected Him in spite of His fulfillment of all of the Messianic prophecies. It was the Holy Spirit, through the O.T. scriptural prophecies that convinced them Jesus was their Messiah ... But their rejection turned into strong rebellion and they conspired to kill Jesus.... anyway. That mixture of certain knowledge, rejection and rebellion is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit
who convinced them through their own Bible prophecies.
Here is one of the most astounding, unimaginable portions of scripture in the Bible. We see the entire council of these Pharisees, having heard Jesus's message, seen His miracles, and recognized Him as their Messiah ... But now realizing they might lose their position, income, prestige and followers, began plotting a way of doing away with Him. Their High Priest, Caiaphas, steps up before them and says to them, "Do you know who we are dealing with? Don't you realize how this will affect us if we acknowledge who this man is? Our Bible prophets of old foretold his coming in great detail ... He is the Messiah and 'it is expedient for us that he die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not'" And then it says that Caiaphas, the High Priest listed the prophecies of Jesus, "not of himself", but from the scriptures "that Jesus should die for the nation of Israel" and not just for them "but also he would gather together in one the children of God." That certain knowledge is what launched their vicious attack upon their known Messiah, and led to His crucifixion. "Then from that day forth they took counsel together to put him to death." That is
Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.
Here is where it happened in John 11...
"Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation. And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death." John 11:47-53.
They took the killing of Jesus upon themselves, to fulfill the prophecies, and
schemed to have their Roman masters do the vile deed. That, my friend, is The Blaspheme of the Holy Spirit who had "proven" and convinced them that Jesus was the Jewish Christ, Messiah of prophecy, but they rejected Him and sought ways to kill Him anyway.... since it was prophesied.
These religious Pharisees then tried to trick Jesus into saying something which would either anger the other Jews against Him, or the Roman Government, so one or the other would attack Him or execute Him."Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him (Jesus) in his talk. And they sent out unto him their disciples ... saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth .... Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute (taxes) unto Caesar, or not?" Matt.22:15-17. This they said to trip Jesus up with a trick question ... knowing who he was, but caring more for their Judaic religion and their positions in it than for the God and Messiah of their religion ... Judaism.
The blasphemy of the Holy Spirit reveals itself in the impenetrable callousness of the hopelessly lost soul ... "Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness." Eph. 4:19. "Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron." 1 Tim.4:2. "Past feeling" with no conscience" is the definition of the self-centered, sociopathic narcissist of whom we see many in politics and positions of power in today's world.
If you still have a desire to be right with God ... saved from your sins, you have not committed this sin and there is still hope for you. .. But come to Him now.
"...Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on (not just "in") the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." Acts 16:30-31.
There are many sins. All are forgivable but one. Even the sin of rejecting Christ is forgivable if the rejection is out of a heart of doubt or unbelief, and if the unbeliever later repents and believes in Jesus Christ as his/her Lord and Savior. Every adult is doubtful and unbelieving ... before they repent and believe. But, it is different, and unforgivable, when it is "Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit", of which Jesus spoke in these two verses....
"Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, (Jesus) it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come." Matt.12:31-32.
Why does Jesus say that speaking against Him (Jesus, "the Son of man"), and other blasphemies will be forgiven ... "but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven"? A person may not be aware of exactly who Jesus is, whether the Bible is true or not, whether God is true or not, and speak against all of it, but later, believe, repent and be forgiven and saved, as was Paul. The same is not true of the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. Here is why. The Holy Spirit's place in the Trinity is to "prove" to human hearts their guilt of sin, their need for righteousness and the certainty of judgement. When the Holy Spirit has "proven" and convinced the lost soul of his need for Christ, forgiveness and redemption, and that soul knows God is real and Jesus came to save him, but he still rejects, with rebellion, what the Holy Spirit has convinced him of .... that is Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit proved God's case, but the guilty sinner not only rejected what he now knew to be true, but took sides against it.
This is what Jesus was alluding to when He said, "And when he (the Holy Spirit) is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment .... Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more." John 16:8 & 10. Whereas no man has ever seen the face of God (Jn.1:18) because God does not personally appear to men, and Jesus came to bring the message of God and the Gospel of salvation, it is the Holy Spirit who "reproves" or proves the truths of God to the hearts of men. What God ordained, Jesus delivered, but it is the Holy Spirit who convicts, convinces, and "proves" to the very souls of humanity that it is all true. So when the Holy Spirit has thoroughly proved and convinced a person that God is real, and they are sinners ripe for judgement, in need of righteousness, and that Jesus died for their sins and will save them, and they know that they know that it is true ... but reject the witness of the Holy Spirit anyway and take sides against Him, that is unforgivable. That is the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, and that is the sin of Lucifer.
Saul of Tarsus blasphemed Christians and Christ Himself, and persecuted them,
("Saul, breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord...." Acts 9:1) but he did not blaspheme the Holy Spirit. He was fanatically religious but sincerely believed he was "doing God a service" Jn.16:2. He did not believe Jesus was the Christ (Messiah) of the Jews until Jesus struck him down with light on the Road to Damascus. That light not only blinded Saul, but opened his spiritual eyes and he said, "Lord who art thou" and Jesus sent him to a Christian, Ananias, to hear the Gospel, be saved and baptized. Saul's name was changed to Paul, when he was saved, and he later testified ..."(I) was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 1 Tim.1:13. If he had not done it "ignorantly", but knowingly, he would not have obtained God's mercy but would have been guilty of blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. This verse signifies the difference between the sin of rejection done "ignorantly in unbelief" and the sin of rejection done "rebelliously with certain knowledge" that you are wrong and Christ right. Unrepented of rejection done "Ignorantly in unbelief" is forgivable if repented of in acceptance of Christ by grace through faith. Not so with the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit when a person already knows the truth of Christ with certainty and still rejects the witness of the Holy Spirit that Jesus is the prophesied Messiah, Son of God, and Savior. You see, believing in Jesus is of no benefit if the believing sinner rejects Christ as his Savior anyway, and refuses to repent and surrender his will and life to the LORD. "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." James 1:17.
Even the Devil "believes in Jesus", but does not submit in sincere repentance and acceptance of Him as his LORD and cannot now do so. It is too late for him. Satan has always known exactly who Jesus was and is, but it didn't save him because he knew the truth about God and Christ before Genesis one, when he was Lucifer, in heaven with God, Christ and the Holy Spirit. But Lucifer rejected the God he knew was God and fought against Him. (Isa.14:12-15). That is Unforgivable and the reason Lucifer can never be saved. He already has known the truth of God and hated it and fought against what he knew to be the truth of God. "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble." James 2:19. You believe there is one God? Good for you ... but the devils believe that much.
Then there was the case of Legion, the Demoniac, demon possessed, lost, miserable, controlled by Satan who himself, recognized and knew who Jesus was. But Legion, when he heard Jesus, did not commit the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. Instead, he accepted Christ, was saved and delivered from Satan. But the devils who already knew exactly who Jesus was, and hated Him anyway, were cast out of Legion into the swine. Mark 5:1-17.
There are few sins so bad as religious heresy and corruption. All of the High Council, Religious Court (Sanhedrin) of the Jews, had strong knowledge of their coming Messiah, and knew Jesus fit the description perfectly, but just one of them resisted the others and came to ask Jesus sincere questions, under cover of darkness.... and was converted. "There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." John 3:1-2. Note Nicodemus said, "we know" referring to the Jewish High Council of which he was a member. That body of Old Testament scholars "knew" who Jesus was, and rejected Him in spite of His fulfillment of all of the Messianic prophecies. It was the Holy Spirit, through the O.T. scriptural prophecies that convinced them Jesus was their Messiah ... But their rejection turned into strong rebellion and they conspired to kill Jesus.... anyway. That mixture of certain knowledge, rejection and rebellion is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit
who convinced them through their own Bible prophecies.
Here is one of the most astounding, unimaginable portions of scripture in the Bible. We see the entire council of these Pharisees, having heard Jesus's message, seen His miracles, and recognized Him as their Messiah ... But now realizing they might lose their position, income, prestige and followers, began plotting a way of doing away with Him. Their High Priest, Caiaphas, steps up before them and says to them, "Do you know who we are dealing with? Don't you realize how this will affect us if we acknowledge who this man is? Our Bible prophets of old foretold his coming in great detail ... He is the Messiah and 'it is expedient for us that he die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not'" And then it says that Caiaphas, the High Priest listed the prophecies of Jesus, "not of himself", but from the scriptures "that Jesus should die for the nation of Israel" and not just for them "but also he would gather together in one the children of God." That certain knowledge is what launched their vicious attack upon their known Messiah, and led to His crucifixion. "Then from that day forth they took counsel together to put him to death." That is
Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.
Here is where it happened in John 11...
"Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation. And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death." John 11:47-53.
They took the killing of Jesus upon themselves, to fulfill the prophecies, and
schemed to have their Roman masters do the vile deed. That, my friend, is The Blaspheme of the Holy Spirit who had "proven" and convinced them that Jesus was the Jewish Christ, Messiah of prophecy, but they rejected Him and sought ways to kill Him anyway.... since it was prophesied.
The blasphemy of the Holy Spirit reveals itself in the impenetrable callousness of the hopelessly lost soul ... "Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness." Eph. 4:19. "Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron." 1 Tim.4:2. "Past feeling" with no conscience" is the definition of the self-centered, sociopathic narcissist of whom we see many in politics and positions of power in today's world.
If you still have a desire to be right with God ... saved from your sins, you have not committed this sin and there is still hope for you. .. But come to Him now.
"...Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on (not just "in") the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." Acts 16:30-31.
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Who Is This Amazing Carolina Panther's Quarterback Headed For The Super Bowl?
Mrs Blair and I live in Mansfield, Texas, about 10 miles from Cowboy Stadium in Arlington. I have always been a Cowboy's fan, though not quite a fanatic, but I can't watch them play. I tell myself its just a stupid game and doesn't really matter if they win or lose. But, as a died in the wool Texan, with sand in my boots and bow legs, I am a Lone Star Flag waver ... probably more so than Old Glory since Obama came out of the shadowy unknown and was elected by the lame brain majority of U.S. citizens. So since I now feel like an illegal immigrant in a foreign communist country, when I'm switching through the TV channels looking for something that makes sense, and can't stand to watch the Cowboys, I watch the other teams. Since the twilight zone era of Obama, I have written off all those states which elected him and pull for those who didn't, when I watch football. So my teams are all Southern. But, I also pulled for the Arizona Cardinals, until now.
You see, today the Cardinals and the Carolina Panthers were in the playoffs to determine who would play in the Super Bowl. So when I am in a straight betwixt two, I watch for which side cheats, has a bad attitude or if any of their players show signs of being a Christian. Right off the bat ... or, I should say "kick-off", I saw the Panther's Quarter-Back glance up to heaven with what looked like a whispered prayer. Yes, I chose my team based on that sliver of possibility that he, Cam Newton might be a Christian. Later, after he personally ran for a touchdown, he pointed to heaven with both index fingers an instant before the cameraman quickly switched away from him.
As it turned out, Cam Newton proved to be the most adroit, amazing Quarter-Backs I have ever seen. He made two touchdowns himself and they won the game 49 to 15, and will play the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl. I like the Broncos and Peyton Manning, but those Panthers are going to win Super Bowl #50, in my opinion.
After the game, I searched the internet to see if I could find if Cam Newton is a Christian. Here is what I found....
Cam Newton was, of course, a college football star at Auburn before becoming one of the greatest Quarterbacks in pro football history, but he gave the glory to God for his success. At Auburn he said, publicly, "It's just a God thing, I thank God every single day. I'm just His instrument and He's using me on a consistent basis daily. He is using me to extend His word and I'm a prime example of how God could turn something that was bad into something that was very great .... If God is with me who can be against me?" A quote from Romans 8:31.
Newton feels blessed for escaping the serious accident with relatively minor injuries. The Carolina Panthers reported on the team's Twitter account that the quarterback suffered two fractures in his lower back and no internal injuries.
According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department crash report, Newton was driving at the posted speed limit of 35 mph during the time of the accident.
The 25-year-old Atlanta native took to Facebook to post this message:
"I do not know where to begin because by the look of that picture someone is supposed to be dead or severely injured worse than what I am right now!"While I am resting up, the thought that keeps flashing in my mind is that GOD IS GOOD and someone has (their) protective hands on my life shielding me from any danger that may come my way!"
So it appears we have another Christian, or at least a seeker, in a key position, who may become an Ambassador for Christ. We shall see. Somebody in Charlotte see that he gets a witness for Christ. Pray for Cam. RB
Carolina Panther's Quarterback, Cam Newton ... High Potential for Christ. RB
Thursday, January 21, 2016
True Science Has Always, Eventually, Neutralized "Science Falsely So Called"
Truth will survive forever ... Error shall cease to be.
"Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God." 2 Thess.2:4.
The word, "Science", from the Latin "scientia", means "to know". Webster's first definition of the word is, "Knowledge obtained by study and practice". That meaning and definition is exactly the same as the word's use in the Bible. It is only used twice, once in the Old Testament and once in the New Testament. The prophet Daniel used it in Dan.1:4 in reference to a "certain" few of the captured Jews in Babylon who were exceptionally knowledgeable and "skillful" in many areas of "science". The King of Babylon wanted to teach them the Babylonian language so he might use their rare knowledge and "understanding" to strengthen his Babylonian Empire. Daniel lauded those Jewish scholars "Children .... well favoured, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans." Dan.1:4.
The second and last use of the word "science" is found in the New Testament where the Apostle Paul was cautioning young Timothy to be faithful to all he had learned about the holy things of God. And not become caught up in the "profane and vain" claims of the opponents of Christ and Christianity, by use of unscientific and false theories which contradicted true knowledge (science). "O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called." 1 Tim.6:20.
So, there you have it. There is a True Science and a False Science. But, what would you expect of Satan who perverts God's word? Wouldn't he also pervert God's science... knowledge of God's universe? After all, God is the Creator of the universe and therefore of the Geometry of space and time. He is the God and Creator of gravity which bends space and time. He is the God and Creator of those mysterious "Black Holes" swirling around and warping vast beams of light. He is the God and Creator of both limitless infinity and the limitless finite. Each of which is perfectly, intricately organized and accurate to truth and reality.
True science is constantly correcting and realigning false knowledge concepts... "science, falsely so called". It seems an endless process.
So be patient, Christian, truth will win out and error and "false science" will be lost in the lost souls of the vanquished. Even they shall be forced to their knees with a final confession on their tongues that "The Lord, He is God", but to no avail, except that truth is forever justified and error forever banished.
Old Testament:
"I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear." Isa.45:23.
New Testament:
"For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God." Rom.14:11.
"Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God." 2 Thess.2:4.
The word, "Science", from the Latin "scientia", means "to know". Webster's first definition of the word is, "Knowledge obtained by study and practice". That meaning and definition is exactly the same as the word's use in the Bible. It is only used twice, once in the Old Testament and once in the New Testament. The prophet Daniel used it in Dan.1:4 in reference to a "certain" few of the captured Jews in Babylon who were exceptionally knowledgeable and "skillful" in many areas of "science". The King of Babylon wanted to teach them the Babylonian language so he might use their rare knowledge and "understanding" to strengthen his Babylonian Empire. Daniel lauded those Jewish scholars "Children .... well favoured, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans." Dan.1:4.
The second and last use of the word "science" is found in the New Testament where the Apostle Paul was cautioning young Timothy to be faithful to all he had learned about the holy things of God. And not become caught up in the "profane and vain" claims of the opponents of Christ and Christianity, by use of unscientific and false theories which contradicted true knowledge (science). "O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called." 1 Tim.6:20.
So, there you have it. There is a True Science and a False Science. But, what would you expect of Satan who perverts God's word? Wouldn't he also pervert God's science... knowledge of God's universe? After all, God is the Creator of the universe and therefore of the Geometry of space and time. He is the God and Creator of gravity which bends space and time. He is the God and Creator of those mysterious "Black Holes" swirling around and warping vast beams of light. He is the God and Creator of both limitless infinity and the limitless finite. Each of which is perfectly, intricately organized and accurate to truth and reality.
True science is constantly correcting and realigning false knowledge concepts... "science, falsely so called". It seems an endless process.
So be patient, Christian, truth will win out and error and "false science" will be lost in the lost souls of the vanquished. Even they shall be forced to their knees with a final confession on their tongues that "The Lord, He is God", but to no avail, except that truth is forever justified and error forever banished.
Old Testament:
"I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear." Isa.45:23.
New Testament:
"For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God." Rom.14:11.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Every Christian Is In A Life-Time Miraculous Race To The Finish
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith...." Hebrews 12:1-2
The point of the Christian Race is not to run faster than everyone else or to beat all those other Christians to the Finish Line. The point, of being a participant in this God ordained event, is ....
1. We run this lifetime race in service to our God and for His glory. Our race is being witnessed by God, the sponsor and Judge, Jesus his Son, his Holy Spirit, his holy angels and a "great cloud of witnesses". So we must do our very best, obey the rules of the race and not push or trip other runners or turn to the right or left, but stay on track.... to the finish line where Jesus the finisher awaits us.
2. A runner must "lay aside every" unnecessary hindrance and encumbrance which would impede him/her from running the race to our very best ability so as to please the sponsor and judges, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and bless that great crowd of witnesses.
3. A runner must be absolutely certain he or she is running in the right direction, toward the goal and finish line "set before us".
4. A runner must never stop but keep moving in the right direction, "looking unto Jesus the author and finisher" of the race. And, following His example, to "run with patience", pace ourselves until we must slow to a trot and then a walk and then with baby steps and cross the finish line crawling if necessary. RB
Here is an example runner crawling across the finish line in third place.RB
______________________________
The point of the Christian Race is not to run faster than everyone else or to beat all those other Christians to the Finish Line. The point, of being a participant in this God ordained event, is ....
1. We run this lifetime race in service to our God and for His glory. Our race is being witnessed by God, the sponsor and Judge, Jesus his Son, his Holy Spirit, his holy angels and a "great cloud of witnesses". So we must do our very best, obey the rules of the race and not push or trip other runners or turn to the right or left, but stay on track.... to the finish line where Jesus the finisher awaits us.
2. A runner must "lay aside every" unnecessary hindrance and encumbrance which would impede him/her from running the race to our very best ability so as to please the sponsor and judges, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and bless that great crowd of witnesses.
3. A runner must be absolutely certain he or she is running in the right direction, toward the goal and finish line "set before us".
4. A runner must never stop but keep moving in the right direction, "looking unto Jesus the author and finisher" of the race. And, following His example, to "run with patience", pace ourselves until we must slow to a trot and then a walk and then with baby steps and cross the finish line crawling if necessary. RB
Here is an example runner crawling across the finish line in third place.RB
______________________________
(CNN)Lifelong runner and Austin Marathon race director John Conley has been a part of many races, but none of the finishes he's been a part of quite compare to what he saw Sunday in Texas.
"What we saw was a champion," Conley said. "The toughest person on the planet."
Conley's not talking about Cynthia Jerop, the women's winner, who finished the 26.2-mile race in 2:54:21.
He'd expected to see Kenyan runner Hyvon Ngetich. According to reports he'd received from the race course, she had been leading most of the race.
But with just two-tenths of a mile left to run, Ngetich began to wobble and stagger, and eventually fell down. She attempted to get back up and keep running but was unsuccessful, Conley said.
But Ngetich never stopped moving forward.
With members of the race team 's medical staff walking on all sides cheering her on, Ngetich crawled to the finish line.
"As bad as it looks, we knew she was prepared to finish," Conley said.
With just 2 meters left for her to crawl, Ngetich was passed by second place finisher Hannah Steffan. Ngetich placed third, with a time of 3:04:02.
Conley said Ngetich crawled more than 400 meters (1,312 feet) to cross the finish line, leaving her knees and elbows bloodied and her hands stained from the pavement.
She was immediately rushed to a medical tent, where she was treated for dangerously low blood sugar, Conley said.
Ngetich told CNN affiliate KEYE she doesn't remember finishing the race.
Her "exceptional effort," inspired applause from nearly every marathon spectator and inspired Conley to adjust her prize money so she receives the same amount of money as if she'd come in second.
"You ran the bravest race and crawled the bravest crawl I have ever seen in my life," Conley said to Ngetich on Sunday night, "You have earned much honor."
Ngetich said it's just what she does.
"In running, you have to keep going," she said.
Click on the picture below, and be patient, to watch this video of runner crossing the finish line and coming in third... but she finished the race and placed. As a witness to her determination, you can't help but love this champion runner. RB
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