With all the little kids running around my neighborhood dressed up in anything from Zebra's and Justin Bieber's to Ghosts and Goblins, I decided it was fitting to keep with the Halloween theme.
First off, Jesus spoke more on hell, judgment and damnation than he did about Heaven. It's not a pretty sight. We are told over and over that it's comparable to a fiery furnace, or a lake of fire. There is weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mt. 13:50) If your not understanding the whole imagery, I'll break it down for you. It's hot, very hot. It's a torturous place filled with cries, moans, and groans that will make your ears want to bleed.
Personally, just the thought of hell sends shivers down my spine. Hell is a horrible sight that i'd never want to visit. Not even for a fraction of a second. It's the worst form of misery you could possibly imagine. It's also eternal. Once you are there, you're stay is forever. There is no early checkout, no visitations, no phone calls, and absolutely no "get out of jail free" cards.
Jesus gives us very specific imagery here, not only because hell is a very real place, but to stress how important our actions and decisions in this life are. Our time here is short, and most of the time we decide to waste it chasing the pleasures of this world.
Without question, every man on Earth justly deserves hell. There's only one way out of God's righteous judgment, and that's through the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches us that we've been redeemed through Christ's blood. I hear many people come to me and say, "Different religions are different paths to the same eternal life." How wrong can they be?
There's only one way to eternal life in Heaven, and that's through Jesus. Without Him, it's Hell. Remember, life's short, so use the time you've been blessed with to make the right decisions today!
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Saturday, October 29, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
Problem of Epic Proportions
An issue that's really been tugging at my heart lately is this: The unbliblical generation has arrived. I'm not using the term "unbiblical" to mean anti-Christian. I'm referring to a group of people that weren't raised correctly. People between the ages of 18-29 were raised without a strong bibilical background.
I recently ran across two books by Author and Barna Group President David Kinnaman, with both books having a very strong centralized message: the unbiblical generation has arrived.
In my opinion, if we are going to solve this problem we need to do it right, "Courageous" style! (For those of you who haven't seen the movie Courageous, it's a must see!) If you're part of this generation, and feel the need to dive deeper into God's word then it's time to turn your life around! For the following few weeks, this Blog is going to be dedicated to resolving this issue.
Hopefully with the right tools, and the right decisions, we can change this generation and ensure correct instruction for generations to come!
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." -2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV
Remember, for the following few weeks, we are going to be dedicated to this sole issue alone. If you have any other topics you want to have discussed, then don't hesitate to leave a comment in the form below. Otherwise, I encourage you to take this journey with us!
I recently ran across two books by Author and Barna Group President David Kinnaman, with both books having a very strong centralized message: the unbiblical generation has arrived.
In my opinion, if we are going to solve this problem we need to do it right, "Courageous" style! (For those of you who haven't seen the movie Courageous, it's a must see!) If you're part of this generation, and feel the need to dive deeper into God's word then it's time to turn your life around! For the following few weeks, this Blog is going to be dedicated to resolving this issue.
Hopefully with the right tools, and the right decisions, we can change this generation and ensure correct instruction for generations to come!
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." -2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV
Remember, for the following few weeks, we are going to be dedicated to this sole issue alone. If you have any other topics you want to have discussed, then don't hesitate to leave a comment in the form below. Otherwise, I encourage you to take this journey with us!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Anti-theistic Education
So, I came across a poll from about 2 years ago that really struck me. A Barna Group poll done in 2009 shows that the Bible is being viewed as less and less sacred in the younger generations.
Why is this? I think there are multiple reasons:
The younger generation isn't being raised with a strong Biblical background. The public, and government institutions are pushing more and more to shove God out of the national picture, church attendance is down, and daily Bible readings have gone by the wayside.
Evolution is being taught in schools, but is creationism? Teachers aren't allowed to mention the name of Jesus let alone God. Public institutions are preaching anti-theism. Parents, how would you expect your children to have a solid Biblical foundation when they are a part of a daily anti theistic society?
I want to turn you to a documentary that just recent came out called IndoctriNation. The movie sheds some light on these public schools that are leaning more and more towards anti-theism. A strong Biblical background is very important for the next generation, and they aren't going to get that with our current public education system.
Why is this? I think there are multiple reasons:
The younger generation isn't being raised with a strong Biblical background. The public, and government institutions are pushing more and more to shove God out of the national picture, church attendance is down, and daily Bible readings have gone by the wayside.
Evolution is being taught in schools, but is creationism? Teachers aren't allowed to mention the name of Jesus let alone God. Public institutions are preaching anti-theism. Parents, how would you expect your children to have a solid Biblical foundation when they are a part of a daily anti theistic society?
I want to turn you to a documentary that just recent came out called IndoctriNation. The movie sheds some light on these public schools that are leaning more and more towards anti-theism. A strong Biblical background is very important for the next generation, and they aren't going to get that with our current public education system.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Hearers and Doers
"Christian's" are in trouble. I'm talking about the modern day, go to church on Sundays, read along with the pastor, then go home and continue my life, Christians. The ones that don't let the Word of God change their life!
My favorite verse sums it up nicely:
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." -James 1:22 (NIV)
For many, this is challenging. People don't like change, and especially if it involves changing their personal routine. I have to be honest, that this change is for the better! Stop fooling yourself into thinking that your a Christian when you are merely a hearer and not a doer.
Every time I start reviewing Bible prophecy, the topic that always amazes me is that many "Christians" won't make the cut (referring to the names in the book of life). Could this be the problem? Are we deceiving ourselves?
My challenge this week comes directly from, James 1:22. Don't just be a hearer, but be a doer. Get things done. Practice what you read.
My favorite verse sums it up nicely:
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." -James 1:22 (NIV)
For many, this is challenging. People don't like change, and especially if it involves changing their personal routine. I have to be honest, that this change is for the better! Stop fooling yourself into thinking that your a Christian when you are merely a hearer and not a doer.
Every time I start reviewing Bible prophecy, the topic that always amazes me is that many "Christians" won't make the cut (referring to the names in the book of life). Could this be the problem? Are we deceiving ourselves?
My challenge this week comes directly from, James 1:22. Don't just be a hearer, but be a doer. Get things done. Practice what you read.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
5 Elements of Christianity: Lead
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..." -Matthew 28:19 ESV
Leading others to Christ is the mission of every Christian. If we truly love our neighbor, then we will be that much more willing to lead them to Christ.
This step isn't easy, and it's not something that should be done just because your supposed to. It should just come natural. Once you love, you'll care enough to lead.
Part of leading is setting a good example. When it comes to our business or personal lives, we always need to be following and setting the example of Christ.
Unfortunately, this is one of the hardest parts of being a Christian. This is also what least Christians take part in. The general attitude in today's society is life is all about you. Once you're saved, then that's it. In reality, that's not it. There are millions and millions of people out there who need to hear this. It's time Christians start leading others, just as Christ lead us.
Leading others to Christ is the mission of every Christian. If we truly love our neighbor, then we will be that much more willing to lead them to Christ.
This step isn't easy, and it's not something that should be done just because your supposed to. It should just come natural. Once you love, you'll care enough to lead.
Part of leading is setting a good example. When it comes to our business or personal lives, we always need to be following and setting the example of Christ.
Unfortunately, this is one of the hardest parts of being a Christian. This is also what least Christians take part in. The general attitude in today's society is life is all about you. Once you're saved, then that's it. In reality, that's not it. There are millions and millions of people out there who need to hear this. It's time Christians start leading others, just as Christ lead us.
Friday, October 14, 2011
5 Elements of Christianity: Love
I'm sure it hasn't been long since you've heard that, "Jesus loves you" or "You're a Christian, aren't you supposed to love?"
Christians are called to love. Loving God with everything we have is not an option. Neither is loving our neighbor as ourselves. But, how is that love supposed to look like in the real world? How can our love truly be an example to others?
First, let's look at loving our neighbor. I want you to understand that by "neighbor", we aren't limiting this to the people that live within the homes surrounding yours. We are talking about everyone. We need to love the whole world and everybody in-between as much as we love ourselves!
We also need to love the Lord with everything we have. Not just part of you, but all of you. Not just on Sundays, but on every day of the week. We need a relationship. A loving, working relationship. Loving the Lord means that you find time to enjoy, and love reading His word. We will have more on this topic in the next couple blog posts with my post titled: "Jesus Loves You...So Love Him Back!"
I challenge you to live our this real life love this week!
Christians are called to love. Loving God with everything we have is not an option. Neither is loving our neighbor as ourselves. But, how is that love supposed to look like in the real world? How can our love truly be an example to others?
First, let's look at loving our neighbor. I want you to understand that by "neighbor", we aren't limiting this to the people that live within the homes surrounding yours. We are talking about everyone. We need to love the whole world and everybody in-between as much as we love ourselves!
We also need to love the Lord with everything we have. Not just part of you, but all of you. Not just on Sundays, but on every day of the week. We need a relationship. A loving, working relationship. Loving the Lord means that you find time to enjoy, and love reading His word. We will have more on this topic in the next couple blog posts with my post titled: "Jesus Loves You...So Love Him Back!"
I challenge you to live our this real life love this week!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
5 Elements of Christianity: Fast
Fasting should be considered just as important as the other 4 elements. In several verses, we aren't given the option to fast, but commanded to fast. Just like praying and giving, there are several reasons for it, and there are different ways to go about doing it!
Medical professionals will tell you that fasting is a great way to detox the body. It rids the body of all the poisons and toxins it collects over time. It's great not only for medical reasons, but for spiritual reasons.
My favorite couple of examples of fasting in the Bible are in Matthew 17:21 and Mark 9:29. In this specific incident, Jesus heals a demon-possessed boy after the failed attempts from the disciples. Shortly after, the disciples ask Jesus why they couldn't accomplish the same thing.
Jesus answered "this kind can come out only by prayer and fasting."
Depending on your translation, you might have to read the footnotes. In any case, Jesus stresses the importance of prayer and fasting. Fasting is needed in order to accomplish tasks.
What I've found to be a great idea is some churches are event hosting fasting events at the beginning of every year.
Whatever type of fasting you choose or length of the fast, you need to remember one important thing: fast to God, and not to man!
PS: If you want more info. on fasting please comment below and I can get it to you ASAP!
Medical professionals will tell you that fasting is a great way to detox the body. It rids the body of all the poisons and toxins it collects over time. It's great not only for medical reasons, but for spiritual reasons.
My favorite couple of examples of fasting in the Bible are in Matthew 17:21 and Mark 9:29. In this specific incident, Jesus heals a demon-possessed boy after the failed attempts from the disciples. Shortly after, the disciples ask Jesus why they couldn't accomplish the same thing.
Jesus answered "this kind can come out only by prayer and fasting."
Depending on your translation, you might have to read the footnotes. In any case, Jesus stresses the importance of prayer and fasting. Fasting is needed in order to accomplish tasks.
What I've found to be a great idea is some churches are event hosting fasting events at the beginning of every year.
Whatever type of fasting you choose or length of the fast, you need to remember one important thing: fast to God, and not to man!
PS: If you want more info. on fasting please comment below and I can get it to you ASAP!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
5 Elements of Christianity: Give
One of the most important aspects of every Christian's life revolves around giving. Christians are called to give in several different ways. Giving finances is vital to the Christian. Tithes and offerings are necessary but they are only just a start.
Let me ask you a few basic questions. Do you have a roof over your head? How about some way of transportation? Clothes and food? If so, then your one of the top richest people in the world! Some would even go so far as to say, you and I are filthy rich. We are. It's the truth. Skip out on one meal out this week and give to those who are less fortunate. Spread the love of Christ through giving willingly!
It's also important for every Christian to give their time. Volunteer in your community. Assist your church. Help out at a food bank. Almost all American's in today's society are materialistic. Giving will change that!
Giving is important not only to the receiver but to the giver as well. It's a blessing to learn the joys of giving. I promise you this, your perspective on life will change! Give generously and be blessed!
Let me ask you a few basic questions. Do you have a roof over your head? How about some way of transportation? Clothes and food? If so, then your one of the top richest people in the world! Some would even go so far as to say, you and I are filthy rich. We are. It's the truth. Skip out on one meal out this week and give to those who are less fortunate. Spread the love of Christ through giving willingly!
It's also important for every Christian to give their time. Volunteer in your community. Assist your church. Help out at a food bank. Almost all American's in today's society are materialistic. Giving will change that!
Giving is important not only to the receiver but to the giver as well. It's a blessing to learn the joys of giving. I promise you this, your perspective on life will change! Give generously and be blessed!
5 Elements of Christianity: Pray
Prayer is extremely important in the life of every Christian. In the gospels, Jesus teaches us how to pray and even provides a perfect example for us. In Matthew chapter 6, we are commanded to pray in private. Most importantly, we aren't to boast about our prayers.
Throughout the Bible, we see clear examples of different types of prayer. There are long, detailed prayers and then there are also short and to the point prayers. Reasons for prayer vary as well. You can pray to give thanks, and for healing purposes.
Prayer is a constant reminder that no matter how hard you work, you are not the outlining factor in control of your life, but God is. He's the one that tells us that if we ask, we will receive whatever we ask for in prayer! (Matthew 21:22) This is personally one of my favorite verses.
In my personal prayer life, I have given myself a goal to spend more time praying for others than I do of myself. Over time, people can get into the habit of praying more selfish prayers and not thinking about others.
I challenge you this week to ask God for wisdom. Then pray for those around you who are in desperate need to hear the gospel of Grace through Jesus Christ!
Throughout the Bible, we see clear examples of different types of prayer. There are long, detailed prayers and then there are also short and to the point prayers. Reasons for prayer vary as well. You can pray to give thanks, and for healing purposes.
Prayer is a constant reminder that no matter how hard you work, you are not the outlining factor in control of your life, but God is. He's the one that tells us that if we ask, we will receive whatever we ask for in prayer! (Matthew 21:22) This is personally one of my favorite verses.
In my personal prayer life, I have given myself a goal to spend more time praying for others than I do of myself. Over time, people can get into the habit of praying more selfish prayers and not thinking about others.
I challenge you this week to ask God for wisdom. Then pray for those around you who are in desperate need to hear the gospel of Grace through Jesus Christ!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Monday Update
Just wanted to fill you all in on what's going on this week. Starting tomorrow, we are going to kick off a 5 blog-post event entitled "5 Elements of Christianity" and we'll get to go into some real detail with all 5.
Should be a great week in blogging. Also, I wanted to share with you what's going on in reference to the actual blog: The blog is up and running, but it will be going through a long stretch of remodel, and hopefully we will be able to put together a partner website along with it in order to centralize the ministries and develop better communication.
A lot planned over here! Prayers and support are always encouraged.
Should be a great week in blogging. Also, I wanted to share with you what's going on in reference to the actual blog: The blog is up and running, but it will be going through a long stretch of remodel, and hopefully we will be able to put together a partner website along with it in order to centralize the ministries and develop better communication.
A lot planned over here! Prayers and support are always encouraged.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Personal Relationship with Jesus
Time after time, I'm reminded that the fastest growing religious group in the modern world today is spirituality. I want to start by looking at the difference between religion and spirituality.
Religion is the set of beliefs, where as Spirituality says you can have "religion" without the organization.
More and more people are claiming to be spiritual. Well, what does that mean? It means more and more people want to define their own religious beliefs and values, and include or exclude exactly what fits for them in their personalized system of spirituality. Those spiritual people say, "It's my God, so I define Him how I want to!"
You've heard the saying, "..your personal relationship with Jesus..."
That's what makes Christianity different. It's not a religion. It's a relationship.
Don't let spirituality get in the way. Don't let our personal relationships with Jesus, turn into our private relationship with Jesus.
Religion is the set of beliefs, where as Spirituality says you can have "religion" without the organization.
More and more people are claiming to be spiritual. Well, what does that mean? It means more and more people want to define their own religious beliefs and values, and include or exclude exactly what fits for them in their personalized system of spirituality. Those spiritual people say, "It's my God, so I define Him how I want to!"
You've heard the saying, "..your personal relationship with Jesus..."
That's what makes Christianity different. It's not a religion. It's a relationship.
Don't let spirituality get in the way. Don't let our personal relationships with Jesus, turn into our private relationship with Jesus.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
5 Christian Must-Do's
Following Christ isn't always easy, but it's what every Christian must do! Today, I'm sharing with you how I summarize the life of a Christian...
1. Pray: We need to have a daily prayer routine. Spend time thanking God for all he has given you. Don't forget to pray for others. Personally, I try and spend more time in prayer for others than I do praying for myself. Talk to God. Every relationship needs good communication!
2. Give: Learn the joys of giving! God says that you will reap the yields of the harvest. Time after time, He has proven this to be true. Times get tough, but never stop giving!
3. Fast: In Matthew 6:16 we are told "when you fast..." Fasting isn't a question of 'if' but 'when.' Just make sure you fast for the right reasons!
4. Love: Jesus loves you, so love him back and love others!
5. Lead: The great commission tells us to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. Our jobs as Christians is to lead others to Christ. Leading takes many shapes, but lead nonetheless.
This week, get in the habit of praying, giving, fasting, loving and leading, and you'll be a better Christian!
1. Pray: We need to have a daily prayer routine. Spend time thanking God for all he has given you. Don't forget to pray for others. Personally, I try and spend more time in prayer for others than I do praying for myself. Talk to God. Every relationship needs good communication!
2. Give: Learn the joys of giving! God says that you will reap the yields of the harvest. Time after time, He has proven this to be true. Times get tough, but never stop giving!
3. Fast: In Matthew 6:16 we are told "when you fast..." Fasting isn't a question of 'if' but 'when.' Just make sure you fast for the right reasons!
4. Love: Jesus loves you, so love him back and love others!
5. Lead: The great commission tells us to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. Our jobs as Christians is to lead others to Christ. Leading takes many shapes, but lead nonetheless.
This week, get in the habit of praying, giving, fasting, loving and leading, and you'll be a better Christian!