a new look at at an old verse

"For God so loved the world the He sent His only begotten Son that who so ever believe in Him would not perish but have eternal life."  John 3:16  (Note: that verse is from memory).  This is one verse that makes Calvinism look bad.  This promise is for anyone!  Not just those pre-elect, the elect, the selected, anyone!  This verse is an open invitation.  This verse has no stipulations with it.  Calvinism says that Jesus died for the elect and no one else.  If that is true then why did Jesus bear the sins of the whole world?  (I know I will get flack for this.)  I have read Calvin's "Institutes" and it is a cleaver work.  One can infer from Calvinism that there those predestined for Hell by God.  Calvinism can very easily paint a warped picture of God.    You will find nothing in the Bible that says anyone is pre-destined for Hell.  You will find nothing in the Bible that says God enjoys the death and destruction of anyone.  And yet Calvinism by means of logical outcome, foster this nasty portrayal of God.  Think about it:  If God predestines some  for heaven, then by neglect or decree He supposedly predestines some for Hell?  What is wrong with this picture folks?  Much!  If predestination is true then Billy Graham wasted his time preaching didn't he?  Oh your saying we don't know who is predestined so we must keep preaching to the unsaved!  Well it is God who saves not Billy Graham and it is Calvinist who promote God's control sovereignty.  Maybe I have said too much; so let me get back to the main point:  God is extremely loving, gracious and kind as illustrated by the verse in John 3:16.  Calvinism on the other hand can ultimately undermine Christianity.

note

My Post will stay brief until I get more feedback or proof that there are actual readers.

thoughts

With 2 high maintence children, I have to remember that they are my ministry.  Meanwhile I wear a an ugly looking helmut because I am missing part of my skull.  (No I am not kidding!).  I did want to recommend two books for you to read:  "Return of the Great Depression" by Vox Day and "Crashing of the Dollar" by Craig Smith with Lowell Ponte. 

Should I end it or change it?

No links this time.  With the lack of viewers, the insurgence of outside control, and the lack of time I have; well I may shut this baby down.  I enjoyed expressing myself. 

churches today

Many churches today do not talk about hell and judgement and yet that is mentioned in the Bible more than once- Math.25:41, Math. 25:46, Math. 8:12, Math.23:14, Rev.21:8, II Thes. 1:9, and others.  Want to guess who talked more about Hell, Christ or His followers?  Well I will not tell you, instead you can do the research and tell me.  Why am I taking this approach?  To encourage an active study of the Bible so that it stays burned in  your long term memory.  Also it has been my experience that the biggest critics on what Christianity teaches are those that read the Bible the least, if at all.  Meanwhile back on the topic:  Hell is a topic that is neglected much in the modern church.  I understand why Hell is so unpopular, but it needs to be talked about.  After all, if Christ talked about hell, so shouldn't we?  Don't believe in Hell you say?  Think I'm trying to scare you?  Well your sort of right; I am trying to motivate you to face a certain reality. And that reality is a choice  everyone  makes that determines their final destiny.  Tell me if Hell does not exist, why is it so pervasive as a concept in almost every culture?  Google 'hell in other cultures' and tell me what you come up with OK? 

If Screwtape wrote again? (with apologies to CS Lewis).

My Dear Tempter;  It is Halloween; our holiday!  And do you know why devils loves this day?  Because is builds in the humans a false confidence about facing death.  When they are bombarded with the grizzly images of blood and death they convince themselves that they think that they can face death; when in reality they are just being stimulated and entertained.  Such mental conditioning leaves them woefully unprepared for that certain day. So death becomes twice as frightening with more regrets to send them off to the grave.  To keep the dying persons agony up it is best they disregard all message of Christian hope; for that defeats our purpose.  Give them vain self confidence while they live and they will be a quivering shrivelled mass of flesh when they are dying.  Remember, keep them vain, ignorant, and happy while they live.  What they don't know will destroy their soul.  A soul that is too busy trying to be happy will not conceive of any God that could provide lasting joy.  Oh I love these human!  They will believe anything if it makes them feel good!  They are so east to seduce! 
         Your Fiendish Advisor;  Wormwood

sweet misery

It is good to be informed, since so much is being marketed these days.  I have attached a link to a video called "Sweet Misery".  It is about Aspartame and it's toxic effects on the body.  What prompted me to share this was the fact that Halloween is near. and people need to know what they are eating and the effects that substances have on their body.  Remember folks, they are more interested in making a buck from you rather than watch out for you.  Here is the link:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-6551291488524526735

vaccines and autism-what do you think?

Hey Parents- check out this link about vaccines.  Then check out the related news reports you will see at the bottom.

http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/958.html 

For adults:  Before you get a flu shot ask for a list of ingredients to the shot.  If one of the ingredients is thymerisol , (spelling uncertain) don't take it!!  I have 2 two kids you probably what vigilence is required to raise a child.

update

Much negative stuff has happened to the point where I thought about shutting down completely.  At least now you know why I haven't posted in awhile.  I thought about comment on Hawking's remarks in regards to thinking we actually came from nothing.  The lesson in this is that a PH.D. is no guarantee against foolish behavior or thoughts.

The Bereans report on "Apostasy Today"

A very good and compelling article by Hunt and McMahon of Berean Call.  In this article it shows the slide the magazine "Christianity Today" made from liberalism to blasphemy.  Also it gives you a look at Billy Graham that you are not aware of.  I want to warn you that if you love Billy Graham or "Christianity Today" then the chance are strong that you will be offended.  However shouldn't we be seeking what is true rather than look for material that caters to our feelings and preferences?  If someone objects to my approach I can show how we are to expose the deeds of darkness. (Yes, with love, but with truthfulness also.)  Here is the link below:

http://www.thebereancall.org/node/8671

Just when you thought it was safe tol rebel

When ever we think of jealousy we usually think of it in negative terms, and rightfully so.  Jealousy often involves intense emotions irregardless if it is expressed by God or a human.  However what would you think if told you that jealousy has a positive side to it?  If you have read the Bible enough you will come across passages that describe God as a "jealous God".  (See Exodus 20:5-6.  See also Joel 2:18 and Zec. 1:14).  Let me pull something from a book by Lawrence O. Richards called "Expository Dictionary of Bible Words"-  "The strong emotion represented  by qana (the Hebrew word for jealousy) can be viewed positively as a high level of commitment when it describes the feelings of a person for something that is rightly his or her own.  Here 'jealosy' has the sense of intense love.  When applied to God, "jealousy" communicates the fierce intensity of His commitment to His people, even when they turn from Him".  Did you get all that?  God's love for His own is intense!  Who wouldn't want to be loved that strongly?  I would be remiss if I didn't mention that jealousy also involves an intense desire for what is rightfully that person's. So remember, if you read a passage about God being a jealous God, He is asserting ownership over what is rightfully His; be it the Earth or the people of the Earth.  Yes we are God's rather we admit it or not.   Still that it is your body?  Then tell me how much did you pay for that body of yours and where is the proof of purchase for that body of yours?  Since you paid absolutely nothing for your life or your body and all the blessings that come with it you owe God your very being.  He loves you more than you can comprehend! The only way to enjoy God's intense love for you is to accept Jesus Christ the Son of God as Lord and Savior of your life.    "For God so love the world that He sent His only begotten Son that who so ever believed in Him would not perish, but have eternal life."  John 3:16. 

more on the oil spill (can you say putrid politics again?)

http://www.crossroad.to/News/eco-disaster.html

Follow this link and all it's references and you will be absolutely amazed at how and why the Gulf oil spill is being handled so poorly.  The lengths people in power will go to advance their agenda and goals is unreal, and yet sadly true.  Even if you are not the 'tree hugging' type you'll see that the the Gulf oil disaster will affect you negatively, if it hasn't already.

one look at suffering

    "And we know that all things work together for good to those that love God, to those that are called according to His purpose."-Romans 8:28.  There is good reason why I opened with that beloved verse from Romans.  As I write this, my hip has been in pain, and I am missing a section of my skull due to infection and surgery.  I say that only because I wanted to reassure you that I am no stranger to suffering.  For I myself tend to be turned off by "armchair philosophers" and "ivory tower thinkers" who stay detached from the dirty realities of life.
   With all that said many of us will one day be tempted to utter words such as 'why Lord!', and 'Lord where are you!'.    Life can be tough!  Where do I start?  Well here goes, and let me warn you:  Don't expect 'happy talk'. 
    The first thing that comes to my mind is the fact that certain virtues can only be developed during adversity.  Such character traits such as patience and courage do not come about unless one is tested and tried.  I have never seen courage express itself  while one is entertained, but I have seen courage raise it's head during scary situations.  So I guess one could conclude that adverse situation can become an opportunity for personal growth. 
     Hard times can also be a time of bonding and an opportunity to find out who really loves you.  The visits and cards I got while recently in the hospital provides a personal example of that. 
      There are also those who get angry at God when illness strikes, (like cancer).  I have read blogs where people figuratively shake their fist at God demanding a hearing from Him.  But where is it written that God owes as an explanation?  Where is written or proven that God owes us anything?  God owes us nothing, while we owe Him everything!  The breath you just took is a gift from God.  When people often say 'It's my life and I'll do what I want'.  I often think to myself, 'Oh really?  How much did you pay for your life?  Where is the certificate or receipt for that body of yours?'  I am not trying to be a smart alec; I am only trying to point out that we did not really purchase our lives or our bodies.  And because of that fact, our lives really belong to God, not ourselves.  It has been my observation that some people who get angry at God during a devastating illness generally want nothing to do with God when things are going good. 
That certainly violates rules of fair conduct, doesn't it?  Is it fair that we demand God to fix things when we have ignored Him as much as possible?  Obviously not.  God is not a cosmic bell-boy ready to do our bidding.  God is loving, but He is also just.  Before I go on please read Genesis 3.  It is a classic example of people ignoring God, then blaming Him for their own failure. 
     For those who say that they have been abandoned by God, my first thought is 'Who moved?'.  God is available to anyone who earnestly seeks Him out!  See Jeremiah 29:13, Mathew 7:7, Psalm 34:10 and others.
  I am certain much more could be said.  I know I was brief.  The reason why I am often brief is because I am well aware of our fast pace society and how it makes us act.  By all means if you have suffered please feel free to share it. Suffering can also serve as  a means of fellowship. 
  

putrid politics

Uncertain how to vote the next election?  Follow the link and watch the video on youtube than.  Trust me, it is an eye-opener!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYfGCMORVoY&feature=player_embedded

suffering-an introduction

It has been a month since I have had head surgery that removed a "bone flap". You see I had to contend with epilepsy for at least 20 years.  What put an end to the epilepsy was various trips to the hospital that culminated in some brain surgery that involved having part of my brain removed.  After a particular section of brain was removed they put some 'hardware' in my skull to help protect my brain.  Well fast forward to about 6 months ago when my brain was literally leaking green stuff.  That fact sent me to the Doctor who said that the 'hardware' was infected and had to come out or worse things could and will happen.  Now you know why I had surgery to remove the 'bone flap'.  I was going to to use that incident to talk about suffering and give a perspective to the familiar complaint that 'if God is all powerful and all good why is there suffering'.  I have been reluctant to pursue that question because I know my response will be not what you desire to hear perhaps.  I was also reluctant to go that route because I didn't want it to be about me so much, but more about the good and wonderful God who stood by me.  My head is OK right now even though it is missing some bone.  I am forced to wear an ugly helmet that you might have seen in Special Ed. classes.  It is funky!   The good news is that there is another surgery down the road where they will install a 'prostetic'.  Now that you know that I have "been there" the next post will deal more with suffering rather than my surgery.

  Feel free to share your stories of suffering if you want.  Yes, I would be honored to pray for you too!    

stuff you do not hear about concerning bp

Here is an interesting presentation about the BP oil spill/disaster:

http://radiolibertyarchives.gsradio.net:8080/061710a.mp3

It will proboably inspire strong emotions in you.

300 prophecies

For a long time I knew that there were about 300 prophecies in the Old Testament that Christ fulfilled.  Think a moment what that means:   A validated prophecy fulfillment means God is very much behind the prediction. And if God is behind the prediction, then it is in one's best interest to pay attention.  Here is a real excellent piece by Bob Chapell; it is called "Are the Odds in Your Favor".  Here is link for you to look at:

www.nbapu.com/300.htm

Take your time once you are there.  Read all the Bible references/quotes.  This isn't trivia you are going to read, but matters that have an eternal significance and destiny.  Before I go I want to recommend two great books that deal with the subject of apologetics in greater detail:  "Evidence That Demands a Verdict" by Josh McDowell and "I Don't Have Enough Faith To Be An Atheist" by Geisler and Turek.   Remember, God can be found if you earnestly seek Him with you whole heart.

I'm green, but not from envy

An interesting and fascinating article for those who like the movie "Avatar" or who like to conserve, or for those who consider themselves 'green'.  For the record-I recycle both at home and at work.  What made the article interesting for me had to do with the common charge that all Christians are hypocrites; which is true by the way!  The church is a place of repented sinners; not perfect people.  However if we must hyprocrisy, let us show it everywhere, not just in churches!  Hollywood has a steady history of portraying Christians in a negative fashion, so turn about is fair play.  This article is another case of reality biting where you least expect it.  My thanks to the "Berean Call" (Dave Hunt & T. A. McMahon) for bringing this article to light.  Here is the link again:

http://frontpagemag.com/2010/04/29/hollywood%E2%80%99s-green-hypocrisy/


Perhaps I am a bit of a hypocrite.  I love a good movie, but I have a very low tolerance for many of the ideas Hollywood loves to push.  One conclusion one could draw after reading the article could be 'If Hollywood really wanted to be truly green then they would have to shut down productions big time.'

update on the update

I was back on the surgeons table again and this time I had hardware removed from my skull.  I guess that means that I am more open minded, doesn't it?  Now I must wear a funky helmet to protect my head.  Well I will talk more about the looks I get later.

Money has wings

"If only I was rich then my problems would melt away!"  Really? Get rich and all your relationships change.  Get rich and you will need an unlisted number and perhaps even a  name change just to keep the 'pest' away!  Get a rich and you will be taxed at a very high rate!  Check this link out below and once you get there check out the other related links:

www.associatedcontent.com/article/377486/10_reasons_why_winning_the_lottery.html?cat=9



  Want to guess how many lottery winners are bankrupt after a few years?

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on Earth where thieves can steal your fortune and moth's rust can corrupt your fortune.  Instead lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where no thief can steal and the treasure can not be corrupted."  (Paraphrased words of Christ from the Sermon on the Mount in Mathew's gospel.  Sorry folks I am recovery from head surgery which why I am not more specific!).

Born again in the Democratic Party

Out of fairness to everyone I had asked myself this question:  'Are there true, legitimate born again Christians in the Democratic Party?  Would you believe that the answer is yes?  Here is a link below for you to to investigate:

 www.huffingtonpost.com/zack-exley/born-again-and-democratic_b_87519.html


The source is an interview between Zack Exley and George Barna.  The name of the article is called, Born Again And Democratic? -- An Interview With George Barna.  In the interview Barna gives a strict definition of what a Born Again Christian is; which why you should read this surprising article. 

Again let me state that my reason for posting such articles is my strong aversion to falsehood and how false ideas have a bigger grip on people's thinking than what they 9realize.  It is not to make anyone look stupid or humiliate them; it is to expose concepts and ideas in their true light.  I am not arguing for anyone's liberal agenda ever.  I hope this inspires serious examination with ourselves and our 'leaders'. 

I guess one lesson that we all can learn from this- Don't assume that just because that person who voted Democratic means that person is a fake or an apostate.  

"I get on me knees and pray 'We don't get fooled again!'" no!no!

What is the first thing you think of when you think of the Republican Party? Conservative, fiscally tight, family values, gay? Yes you heard me right, gay.
Check out this link below:

www.ask.com/wiki/Log_Cabin_Republicans


What started this recent string of blogs were questions I had about politics; unanswered questions. The big question that really got me searching was 'Does the Republican Party really represent Biblical values, or is it just a sham to sucker us Christians into voting for them?' I am not bugged by the fact that there are gays in the Republican Party. However I am quite bugged that the Republicans have not been completely 'straight' with the public about this issue. I am even more bugged at Christians who are staunchly supporting the Republican Party without question. I guess this whole hypocrisy of the Republicans portraying themselves as more righteous than Democrats bugs me.  Those 2 parties act so much alike it seems!  Yes I know there are differences but the point of this blog was to point out the similarities of the 2 parties that most are not aware of. 
 I got no clear number as to how many gays are in the Republican party, but put Log Cabin Republicans in your search engine and see what you come up with.

By the way speaking of being suckered in:  Originally I was going to talk about how James Dobson was suckered by the Republican party recently but this seemed more relevant.  Oh, Dobson did nothing wrong, but I am bothered as to how the Republicans use Dobson to garner votes, and then James gets little return for his support. 

everything you learned is incorrect??

Curisosity got the better part of me and I had to find out 'how many pro-life Democrats are there?' By one count there are 35 pro-life Democrats in the house. See this link if you are curious.

www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0404122.htm

This also begged the question, 'How many pro-choice Republicans are there?' One Gallup Poll said that 30% Republicans are pro-choice. Let's see, that is about 1 in 3 Republicans being pro-choice. See this link below:

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_percentage_of_Republican

These sources that I have listed are by no means final. But if this true then it forces us to ask some real hard question come any election such as: Are the Party differences real or just aparent? What is the real agenda of each political party? If the Republican Party is the Conservative Party, then what are they conserving? Most importantly, why are Christians who are usually pro-life stand by the Republican Party so much when it has so many pro-choice canidates?

It is time to trash all assumptions about politics folks. Seriously study the 2 parties, and even seriously consider voting for third party canidates.

update

Get this: I was on the surgeons table with an IV in my arm and muscle relaxer in my system, and the word came that they would not operate because their case load was too heavy and the operation wouldn't happen until evening. So I get sent home and my surgery will be rescheduled.

update

Surgery got postponed due to an over burdened Doctor and a list of complications of the patient before me. That means my head surgery will happen later.

Not tonight, I have a headache!

I used to be an epileptic and suffered alot from partial-complex seizures. However a serious of operations changed that to where I became seizure free in 1991. In the final operation in 1991 some surgerical hardware was installed in my head. Now in 2010 I have to go to the hospital tomorrow to have surgery again because it looks like that hardware is coming loose and I have to deal with head infections. There has even been a hole in my head. I am posting this because I* may not write for awhile. The surgerical outcome can be anything from very good to very bad. I am not exagerating; I'm just being honest. Times like this can really reveal alot about a person like: How much do they really trust God, or how valid is the faith? I do know one thing for sure and that is God capable of taking the most painful, ugly, heart wrenching situation and turn it into something good! (See Romans 8:28. For that matter read all of Romans 8. Oh, why stop there! Read the whole book of Romans!).

Why I am a Christian or Why I love God, part II

The last post I mentioned "the blessed hope". Part of that blessed hope is the idea that alot of Christian, (although not all) believe in what is called the "rapture" or euphemistically the Great Escape. Before I go on let me give a Bible reference or two that justifies the idea of a rapture. IThessalonians 4:13-18. A quick note about that passage: You will not see the word 'rapture', however you will see that concept described in verse 17 where Paul talks about being "caught up". The original Greek for caught up is harpazo. That denotes a very quick snatching. Hard to believe isn't it? But nothing is impossible for God! See also ICorinthians 15:51-58. Anyway the rapture is a legitimate concept in the Bible. See also Revelation 4:1-2
Anyway who wouldn't be thrilled at the idea of one day escaping this world of violence and corruption to be in Christ constantly? Does it matter when it happens; no it matters that it will happen.

Why I am a Christian or Why I love God

This started with a Pastors sermon.  This post may be more for my benefit than the good reader.  Why do I love God?  For starters I know God exist.  Sheer logic screams "Creator" because random events have created nothing!  Random events cannot maintain order either, anywhere! I mention this because you cannot love Someone who doesn't exist, can you?  I love God because He has given us a beautiful world to live in that is pleasurable and bountiful.   Before I go on I will mention a good apologetic to read called "I Don't Have Enough Faith To Be an Atheist" by Geisler and Turek. Some of the reasons I am a Christian include the clasic response that Christ died for my sins so I don't have to take the penality sin which is Hell.  Another reason  includes that Christ has promised that He "would never leave you (me included), nor forsake you" (me too!). Imagine the God of the Universe walking with you through your worst trial!   By the way, if you want Bible references to what I am talking about write me in the comment section.  Otherwise I am leave the Bible references out for two reasons:  1. To save time. and 2. To make you crack open a good Bible and read it yourself.  Another reason I am a Christian is the fact that Christ rose from the dead.  That fact alone is so powerful I could go on a long time extolling that "blessed hope"!   Christ ressurection means many things such as absolutely everything He said is true and will come to pass if it hasn't yet.  Do you you know anyone that is absolutey trust worthy?  God is because He is perfect!  Another reason I am a Christian is quite frankly no other religion offers such certain hope.  Tell me, what other belief takes away the sting, or fear of death?  That is another reason I am a Christian! When you are close to God's will then death becomes more of a curtain or a phase that we must pass through rather than something to be feared!  (Check out "The Last Words of Saints and Sinners" by Herbert Lockyer.).  By the way, part of my skull will be removed soon, I will keep you posted on that. I also enjoy the close fellowship, love and care I receive from fellow Christian unsolicitated!  Christ also promised that He is coming back to make this world right!  You know I have been writing for almost an hour and I could write even longer!  You see when you telling people about Christ, there are many good things to tell, and when you talk about the God of the Universe you can't stop after a few minutes!  No there many good things to tell!  The irony of it is that I have actually been brief!  Perhaps I might continue on another blog? 

Blessed are the rude for you can shut them up!

What does Hank Hanegraaft and Jay Sekulow have in common?  I'll give you a few hints:  It doesn't have to do with the fact that they both have big radio audiences in the Christian Community.  Nor does it have to do with the large amounts of money they take in through donations.  The common thread that I have noticed with both of those men is the fact that if caller disagrees with either men in what they say or believe then both of those men will cut the caller short before the caller finishes their sentence and then assert what they say in a authoritarian way. In a word, they are plain rude to the dissident caller(s). I have heard both men engage in such interupptions personally and I end up turning the radio off.  There is absolutely nothing in the Bible that justifies such behavior towards anyone.  The common retort is usually 'we have to keep calls short because the lines get full'.   Really?  Where is the love of God in such displays of rudeness?  I have tried contacting the Christian Research Institute in the past hoping to "call them to the carpet" for past actions.  (It had to do with the poor treatment of the Walter Martin family and questionable finances that involved Hanegraafts wife Kathy.).  I got nowhere fast!  In fact it has been my experience that if their is a Christian organization that you love and want to support but they are doing things that unbiblical, wrong, or questionable and you want to draw their attention to the problem; well don't expect a response!  In other words they sheild out anything that they pereceived as critical or negative.   I'll give you a real example of they sheild out criticism:  Focus on the Family often promotes and sells contemplative material.  I tried to call them in at their Colorado office and tell them that such material is occultic.  (think of the DVD "Be Still").  They were friendly, but they were only interested in my call if I needed counseling or wanted to buy something.  So there you have it:  Christian organizations that are structured in such a way that they become impervious even to constructive criticism!  And when you have any organization that is not open to correction or rebuke than it cannot grow.  Tell me, if a husband or wife did not make themselves open to correction to their spouses how long do you thing such a marriage would last? 

stuff you do not hear about

Here is an article that is from Autumn of 2007: ...


I want to warn you that there is a photo of Lady Gaga that is less than lady like on that page!
...


www.nypost.com/p/news/.../item_oOs6YT36w63DSEnAMPsNgL
 
It got my attention for a couple of reasons:  It points out the reality of gay-on-gay crimes that you just don't hear about. You will also see a double standard that some people operate by. What motivated me to share this is due to the fact is that I have a low tolerance for political correctness, especially when truth is often sacraficed on it's altar.  I hope I find more stuff that smashes preconceptions and prejudices.  That is all I can think of right now folks.

Random thoughts

At one point I thought this blog was more like a journal- just a avenue of self expression.  With so many web sites out there I was thinking, 'What could I really add that hasn't been heard'?  But my faith in Christ is very real, and very important to me and keeping my faith to myself is shallow and selfish.  Couple that with the reality that both the US and California are out of money brings home the sobering idea that money doesn't guarentee security, but knowing Jesus as He is meant to be know brings peace with God.  If you are a Christian reading this then leave comment as to how God impacted your life for the better.  If you are a non-believing skeptic reading this then bring your strongest objection to Christianity in a question form.  It has been said that Jesus is answer, and I believe that to be true in a very disarming way.  Another thought for the skeptic reader:  Did it ever occur to you that the reason you might be annoyed or angry when a Christian shares the Gospel of Christ with you is because it makes you feel like a sinner? Gee, isn't that an uncomfortable thought?  Wouldn't the reasonable thing to do would be to investigate your feelings about the Bible, and then investigate the Bible itself in open way?  However too often I have seen skeptics claim that they are more enlighten than Christians and yet that claim is nothing more than emotional grand-standing.   
  To close, I suggest read the entire book of IJohn.  It is a wonderful letter/epistle.

Biography...sort ot

Since I have been sick and went to see the Doctor, I thought about being a little personal. When I was young I came down with Pneumonia. My Mom decided to take me to a seance to heal me. Just to let you know something: My Mom was a strong follower of New Age ideals. Some of the Books included in her collection included "Jonathon Livingston Seagull", some stuff by Shirley McLaine, Carlos Casandra stuff, some writings of a women possessed by the spirit 'Seth'. I know the lack of details here does not give me credibility, but rather than get hung up on a tangent just stay with me and you will get the real point of this post. Well to continue: The seance did not heal me, but the direction of a standard Doctor did. Before I became a Christian I was very eager to please my Mom. However being a devout New Age practitioner involves lots of personal introspection with less regard for other family members. In other words, my Mom was very involved in New Age thought or practices to the point where I thought I was raising myself. (My Dad died when I was a young teenager. and I was a brand new Christian, and a real sucker!). During that time, I asked many, many questions about her beliefs in the New Age. (After all they looked very attractive to me.). Some of the common replies included "not now", "I'm tired", and many looks of annoyances. So one day I thought it fair to ask my Mom evidence that the New Age was true and it work. She got mad and very exasperated at me acting like I was asking the impossible! Needless to say I gradually came to the conclusion that the New Age appeals to feelings and has little to do with God, reality, or the Universe. Here is the moral of the story folks: Children will want to follow your beliefs to at least to please you. Don't squander the time you have your kids. Don't let selfish interest keep you from giving your kids what they need the most: YOU! I almost swallowed the New Age philosophy hook, line, and sinker because of the high regard I had for my Mom. Her dour responses galvanized me towards Christianity and to seriously examine the New Age faith for what it really is- a false hope that can even tear the fabric of families apart.

hum

I have posted for March already but is still stuck on a certain date in Feb.. So this is sort of a test to see where this posting goes wants it published.

just a note

I got another series of dots and dashes for commentary. I can't use it or understand it so I scraped it. What is making it hard to post is this cough and the fact I will be getting head surgery in a few weeks. Yup! You heard right, head surgery! No I have a hard time believing it myself and I kind of wish it is nothing more than a mistake. I was going to share this as the time got closer. I guess what I'll share will be based at least partly on the feedback. Some of the content might be hard to stomach for some individuals. We'll see OK? By the way, no swine flu yet, (honest!).

Love Song Challenge

Sometime ago on a Answers web site on Yahoo I had issued a challenge that nobody was able to meet: Find a love song that was truely unselfish in lyric and charactor. I had posted or mentioned Ray Thomas's song "For My Lady" as an example. Ray by the way in case you didn't know is a singer and flutist for The Moody Blues. Before I finish my post here is the link below so you can listen to this beautiful tune yourself!:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEegRlluTOY
If that link doesn't work, go to: http://www.youtube.com/ and put in For My Lady by the Moody Blues.
Why am I being picky about love songs? Because most what I hear on the radio (past and present) are not love songs, but lust songs. Rather than crowd this page with examples I will sumerize a few points: Common in love songs is how that pretty girl makes him feel, rather than considering the welfare of that pretty girl. Alot of songs also view love as an accident, ("I'm falling in love"), or ("I was crashing into love"). In other words love in alot of those songs is not portrayed as a choice but being overwhelmed by a force greater than themselves. Are we really that helpless? Check
out ICorinthians 13 in the New Testament in light of this quote-"We love because He First loved us", (referring to Jesus Christ). Well are you up to the challenge? Can you share wonderful songs about a person that will put their loves interest ahead of their own? This is one time I hope I get a strong response and interaction. I will be waiting to hear from you!

warning

I was going to talk about love and Valentines day- I might still do that later, but right now I want to share an experience that recently happened to me at Face book. As I have said my computer got infected with a couple of nasty viruses; in fact I had to get a new hard drive. Meanwhile someone at Face book pretended to be me and chatted with my friend Ted. Ted who was aware of my where abouts confronted the impostor on this and the impostor fled. I am telling all the good readers about this so they can be alerted to the fact that those social network sites are not flawless or impervious to interruption and hijacking. Be careful folks! Why that fellow pretended to be me, I don't know, but I am paying for his crime since Face book disabled my account.

personal stuff

I have meant to mention this much earlier; but better late than never. The point is I did not get a flue shot this year. In fact I have not gotten a flu shot for at least 5 years, maybe more. The verdict is: I'm not dead yet! The closest thing I had to any sort of flu was a stomach ailment that lasted 24 hours. That doesn't sound like the swine flu does it? i want to make a promise to all that read this: If I do get the swine flu, I will post it! You have my word! There is a reason why I am telling you all of this and that is that I don't think you are being told everything that you need to know about vaccinations. As you read some of the articles on the web site that is listed below, you will see things that will challenge your view on modern medicine- such as the correlation between increased vaccines and increased autism. And conversely how communities that don't vaccinate at all, like the Amish communities, almost have non existent levels of autism. So I am going to leave a web site for to check out yourself:
http://www.thinktwice.com/
Don't let anyone scare you into getting a vaccine; test all things and hold fast to that which is true! If I am even half right, then your precious kids are at risk every time they get a vaccine.

sinking into debt

Here is a link to an article from World Net Daily below:

www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=122416

Our Country is sinking into debt big time and yet America as a country just will not deal with it.
This Country is out of money folks and unless the problem is addressed soon we will have a hard road to face.
In conjunction with that article is a documentary that I viewed recently "In Debt We Trust".
(The DVD documentary I was able to obtain at the public library.). One startling fact that film pointed was the fact if this nation became frugal with it's spending then we as a country would collapse economically! In other words our American economy is built on frivolous spending on none essential items such as entertainment. On the surface it seems hard to believe until realize how much is spent on things like movies, pornography, alcohol, sports events, ect. I know this makes me look prudish. However I wish Americans would try an experiment: For one whole month, buy only what you need-food, clothes, transportation, shelter. Most people have TV and radio for entertainment at home, and you can go to the local library to read a book or watch a movie. Would you be willing to try such an experiment? Or have we as a Country become so accustomed to be entertained in all aspects of our lives that such a experiment is doomed to failure because we would go throw severe physical contraction and withdraw symptoms if it was attempted even for one week? Maybe I should put this one modifier in before closing: Go ahead and amuse yourselves, just don't pay for your amusement for a month. If you have time, check out a book by Neal Postman called "Amusing Ourselves to Death". Thanks for taking the time to read this and have a good day!

another comment

Someone left a comment in pure digital form (binary code and ellipsis). What can I say except 'try again'! It didn't get posted for obvious reasons.

gays are not acting gay.

Originally I wasn't going to post anything due to the fact that I am ill, but this article from World Net Daily reveals facets of the gay life style that many don't think about:

www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=121704

Folks if you love the gay people, you will tell them about the Good News that Christ died for them also! Leaving them alone is not love; it just gives them time to destroy themselves.

comment on commentators

To those of you that commented on my blog, (both the positive and negative commentators), I want to thank you! One person suggested I let the grace of God guide me and they are right! For those that were less than positive- I am glad you commented; you were very civil! What's more it gave me a clearer picture how think and perceive my comments. In retrospect I think I got a little cranky when I brought up James Dobson. I think the reason for that is not the fact that he has made mistakes, but not showing enough valid attempts at correcting himself. A few years ago he was very valiant on radio about being mature enough to accept correction-oh that made my heart soar and want to listen to him! But fast-forward to the last election where he (Dobson)said that he would never vote for McCain, and then all of a sudden the presence of Sarah Palin in the election made McCain acceptable and worth voting for? Couple that with "Focus On The Family" promotion and sale of contemplative material , (contemplative practices are of occult origin) and you will understand my frustration with such an organization. I guess the whole point could be summarized in this fashion: When we promote Christian leaders to such a point where nobody holds them accountable for their mistakes; where such leaders are treated as flawless (even though such ideas would be denied); then I see a strong comparison with how evangelical people treat their leaders and how Catholics treat their Pope. We are all fallible including the Pope. Before I go on, does any reader want to share how they tried to correct a Christian leader? Personally I have attempted to contact "Focus On The Family", Janet Parshal's web site, C.R.I. and Richard Abanes site (in regard to purpose driven Warren) when they promoted things that were inconsistent or unbiblical. For the record: I got no response from "Focus On the Family" C.R.I, or Janet Parshal, and I got a very unfriendly response from Richard Abanes.
Now that I have commentators, I will try to be less vague in my writing. I must go; my children are looking at me!

To those that commented on a previous post: I just reviewed your comments today for the first time about 1 hour ago and they are posted. Please don't jump to any conclusions about me burying your comments; I have very busy life. I will close by asking you a question dear readers: What should a Christian do when their beloved leader makes a wonderful statement of faith and yet does and says things are down right compromising to the faith they profess. For me it makes me sad and forces into prayer and the word of God. We are told to "test all things and hold fast to that which is true"-(see I John); that includes Christian leaders we trust and hold dear in our hearts. Please see the other post below-for it is long, and don't comment until you read everything OK?

Clarity on a previous post

For the first time I got to note some commentators to my blog, and I think I succeeded in getting their comments published. The main gist of their comments seemed to be that I was too hard on Franklin Graham, son of the famed evangelist Billy Graham. I will attempt to address at least some of what they bought up. It is very good that Franklin Graham is helping the poor with the Samaritan's Purse organization; that is nothing short of commendable. It's obvious I didn't make things clear on a few things, but I bet more comments will fly.. Has Franklin Graham ever been set on fire, had a limb chopped off, had gasoline rags stuffed down his throat, or hung up by wires tied around his wrist? The obvious answer is 'no', and that is what I was referring to when I was commenting about what Franklin Graham was going through was trivial when compared to what Christians go through in other parts of the world. I was misunderstood on the faith statement also. I have seen so many leaders make orthodox statements of faith that are right on and yet turn around and do and say things that are unexpected and astounding (in a negative sense). I am going to give you some links on Franklin Graham that should raise concerns if not eye-brows.
If the links below are confusing I would recommend that you go to:
www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=1466
(author is lighthouse trail editors), or go to
http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/
and put 'Franklin Graham' in the search box. Below is a reprint of one artice from that search.
Billy and Franklin Graham Join Emerging Church Leaders and The Shack Author for Catalyst Conference
October 2nd, 2008 Author: Lighthouse Trails Editors
Below are some sections from that article; refer to links for more information.

Billy Graham, and his son Franklin, will be speaking at the upcoming Catalyst Conference on October 8-9. Possibly, the father/son Grahams are not aware of the teachings and the spirituality that the Catalyst Conference represents. Unfortunately, Catalyst will gain respect and audience by many trusting and unaware admirers of the Grahams for including them on their list of speakers.
One of this year’s speakers is Mark Batterson, lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington DC. Batterson joined emerging leader Erwin McManus at McManus’ 2008 Awaken event, and he points readers on his website to Eckhart Tolle, a New Age guru who is currently being heralded by Oprah Winfrey. Batterson says that Tolle’s book, mystic Daniel Goleman (The Meditative Mind), mantra-meditation promoter Gary Thomas (Sacred Marriage, Sacred Pathways), Leonard Sweet, Tony Jones, Brian McLaren, and several others who fall in the New Age and/or emerging/contemplative camp.
The Shack: New Age Similarities, Popularity Continues, and Calvary Chapel Gives Official Statement,” addresses where the book refers to God as “the ground of all being” that “, “Willow Creek Leadership Summit Starts Today – Speaker Promotes New Agewww.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=1281
www.truedsicernment.com/2008/07/08/saudi-arabia-to-host-major-interfaith-conference/
(All links listed are in relationship to the Grahams directly or indirectly).