False Teachers And Shepherds: Hiding Out in Conservative Venues

I read "Seven Characteristics of False Teachers" by Thomas Brooks recently. I originally read excerpts from his sermon at a website where the issue of false teachers/shepherds was being discussed. I want take slightly different angle.

As I see it, the dangerous teachers and shepherds are not necssarily the wacky ones like Benny Hinn. They are dangerous of course. They spew lies from the pit of Hell, no doubt. But they are obvious and most "conservative Christians" already understand that.

The ones I'm far more worried about are those that are hiding out in "solid" churches and seminaries. These are the ones that everyone follows, are considered "godly" (please, someone, explain to me exactly what that means), and weild a great amount of authority and respect both in the local church and for some also nationally or internationally.

These are men who "secretly sneak in among you" Jude 4. That means they profess a great amount of truth, yet hold to grevious error, either morally or doctrinally, or both.

Degrees, blogs, books, articles, theological soceities, seminaries, colleges, and speaking engagements are these men's arena. They are devious fellows; smart, politically suave, and they know just what to stay to stay under the radar....and to keep their position.

Ironically, however, they are arrogant enough to speak what they believe without shame. It may be because they feel safe in their supposed authority or influence that they believe they are untouchable, therefore to some, they express their beliefs, but to others they play the symantics game, blowing around smoke and playing with mirrors just enough to confuse most people....

Except God isn't confused. Nor is He blind. And He has equipped His churches with Christians with gifts from the Holy Spirit, for the common good and His glory. The gift of discerning of spirits is one gift that, along with the gift of knowledge, will detect the false teachers no matter their subtlety. They are found out because God demands us to use our gifts, protect His sheep, and wants His church to be pure in doctrine as well as practice.

False shepherds don't care about that. They are hirelings with a resume to fill and then move on to greener pastures when they've "out grown the ministry" (truly an anti-biblical notion) or run out of recylced sermons. All of course, "for the glory of God" and because "it's God's will".

Sound familiar?

Hierlings/false shepherds are notorious for being worse church-hoppers than most of the flock they ravage.

The issue of false teachers usually is brought up in relation to a "feel good" gospel. While I agree that often happens, my focus here is on those who seem solid. The gospel they proclaim isn't full of health and wealth Schullerisms or Osteenisms. On the surface, they appear at least, to be O.K.

The subtlety of error here, is that their gospel still will be man-centered. At some point, their gospel isn't ALL of grace nor is it ALL of Christ Jesus; their gospel is missing either: the resurrection of Christ Jesus, His Lordship, man's sin, or God's wrath. Often their gospel is an offer to a God-hater to "make a decision for Christ", to believe God "has a wonderful plan for your life", is "begging you to say "yes" to His offer while He is on bended knee". They will also use pragmatism in evangelism which is a reflection of their distrust in the Holy Spirit to move as He wills with whom He wishes, not to mention the power of the Scriptures.

Even more subtle is their view of other people's god. Everything these heretics proclaim to believe personally would most likely pass The Smell Test of "evangelicals" (a word that hardly means anything today). Most Christians are happy with something that sounds relatively sound and are unwilling to ask hard questions of a leader's beliefs in specifics. In reality, what they believe about what other people believe actually reflects what their own true beliefs about God.

The problem is, while espousing doctrines like the Trinity or the omnicience of God, they quietly will say things like:

"Just because someone doesn't believe in the Trinity, doesn't mean they have a different God."

"I'm so tired of Christians saying if someone doesn't believe in the Trinity, they don't have God."

"Mormons worship the same God as us, at least he has the same name..."

"Some Muslims have the same God as we do, but its sameness in part, not whole."

"My dear friend is an Open Theist but I KNOW he's a Christian because he has proclaimed salvation in faith alone in Christ alone."

"When Christians and Muslims speak of God, they are speaking of the same Being."

"Do Muslims worship/have the same God as Christians? Yes and no."

"Is the Father of Jesus the God of Mohammad? The answer is surely yes and no."

"Christians and Muslims can together affirm many important truths about this great God."

"However, while Islam today has much in common with Christianity on the essential attributes of God, there is a wide diverdence on His moral and relationship attributes."

"So while Christians and Muslims believe in the same God, they conceive of His nature differently."

"Though Muslims and Christians may believe in the same God as subject..."

"Allah is a perfectly legitimate name for God."

Every person quoted here is considered as Evangelical and Christian. All but one speaks publically and teaches at seminaries. But when asked, they play word games, use smoke and mirrors, but ultimately they reveal what they truly believe. One has to be a skilled swordsman to fight such heinous deception.

Scripture says there is but ONE God and HE has revealed His name and Himself already: Allah is not Him, nor is the god of the Mormons. If a person denies Jesus Christ the Lord, as do all religions but biblical Christianity, Scripture says they have not the Father either.

1Jn 2:21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth.

1Jn 2:22 Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son.

1Jn 2:23 No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also.

2Co 6:15 What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?

2Co 6:16 What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, "I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Isa 40:25 To whom then will you compare Me, that I should be like him? says the Holy One.

Psa 147:5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; His understanding is beyond measure.

Clarity in Scripture: Post-Modern/World-Relevant "Christians" Deny It

I've been thinking about how so many "Christian theologians" and "apologists" are rejecting the declaration of the clarity of Truth in Scripture. I came across a passage that spoke of the clarity of proclaiming the Gospel, which made me look at some other verses, too.

Post-modernism/liberalism says we can't dare to be dogmatic on anything because truth can't be really known (except when it comes to being dogmatically against the dogmatics, lol). It's from this mind-set that also says no one can make any judgements (except of course, for juding others to be judgmental).

If a truth is not bodly declared by a teacher, its because they are not convinced that it is Truth. Biblical truth is true forever and will never change because God is Truth and God doesn't change. We can stake our very lives upon it. But if someone doesn't think it really is clear or clearly true, they will never be bold about it. That's why so many teachers today won't "dogmatically" declare Scripture to be all-sufficient for all things in life and godliness. They pretend things aren't clear, that none of us can really know Truth. How convenient, because now they can behave like the world and claim no one can judge their behavior or hearts; they can slap on slogans like, "for God's glory" or "to reach the lost" and sear their conscience to their sin.


Clarity:

Col 4:2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
Col 4:3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison--
Col 4:4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Col 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.
Col 4:6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

"clear":

phaneroō

Thayer Definition:1) to make manifest or visible or known what has been hidden or unknown, to manifest, whether by words, or deeds, or in any other way1a) make actual and visible, realised1b) to make known by teaching1c) to become manifest, be made known1d) of a person1d1) expose to view, make manifest, to show one’s self, appear1e) to become known, to be plainly recognised, thoroughly understood1e1) who and what one is

Other verses with the same word:

Joh 1:31 I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel."

Joh 3:20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God."

Rom 16:25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages Rom 16:26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith--
Rom 16:27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.

2Co 2:14 Now1161 thanks5485 be unto God,2316 which always causeth us to triumph2358, 3842, 2248 in1722 Christ,5547 and2532 maketh manifest5319 the3588 savor3744 of his848 knowledge1108 by1223 us2257 in1722 every3956 place.5117 [KJV w/ Strong's numbers]

Eph 5:12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret.
Eph 5:13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible,
Eph 5:14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."
Eph 5:15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,
Eph 5:16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
Eph 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

I like the Eph. 5 passage because it states that one's deeds are made clear by the light of God exposing it as evil, and therefore we should walk wisely (not worldly), and that to NOT understand the will of God IS to be foolish. How many times do Post-modern /Emergent /liberals say we can't judge one's actions nor can we really know God's will? God condemns such foolishness.

A similar word used:

Col 1:25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known,
Col 1:26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.
Col 1:27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Col 1:28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.

"made known":

gnōrizōThayer Definition:1) to make known1a) to become known, be recognised2) to know, to gain knowledge of, have thorough knowledge of2a) in earlier Greek it means “to gain a knowledge of” or “have thorough knowledge of”

More of phaneroō:

2Ti 1:8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
2Ti 1:9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,
2Ti 1:10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,
2Ti 1:11 for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher,
2Ti 1:12 which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.

1Jn 2:19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us. 1Jn 2:20 But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.
1Jn 2:21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth.

***
Another similar word used:

Luk 8:17 For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.

G5318φανερός phaneros Thayer Definition:1) apparent, manifest, evident, known2) manifest i.e to be plainly recognised or knownPart of Speech: adjective

Rom 1:19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. Rom 1:20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
Rom 1:21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

1Co 11:19 for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized.

The next two verses, again, show that we can know clearly what the works of the flesh are and who is and is not of God:

Gal 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, Gal 5:20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, Gal 5:21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

1Jn 3:10 By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.

Can we know Truth? Is it clear? Absolutely!

1Jn 2:21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth.

"Evangelicals" Fear Man Rather Than The God They SAY They Worship: Daniel would roll over in his grave if he saw this cowardly fear of mere man

"Evangelicals" cave out of fear of the opposition again, according to a news report by Worldnetdaily:

Dozens of Christian leaders meeting in Denver have concluded they should "get behind Sen. John McCain even if they didn't like everything about him" because the alternative, presumptive Democratic candidate Sen. Barack Obama, actually could oversee the criminalization of Christianity, according to a report.


"The alternative is so bad we must support John McCain," Phyllis Schlafly, founder and president of Eagle Forum, told the group, according to the bulletin.

Jeremiah 17:5, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord.’”

Mathew Staver, president of Liberty Counsel and dean of the law school at Liberty University..."Our shared conservative evangelical values and our concern about judicial activism compelled us to unite around the presidential candidate who most closely aligns with us," Staver said. "That candidate is obviously Sen. John McCain. United we will move forward to advance our values in the short- and long-term. We are committed to a transgenerational, multiethnic and multiracial conservative movement."

Conservative? Evangelical? HOW? See how he has admitted to being an adulterous flanderer.

Joseph Farrar of WND reminds us, "McCain voted to confirm Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Steven Breyer to the Supreme Court. He also, as is his nature, conspired with Democrats in the Senate to block approval of Bush's most conservative jurists."

Back to the Worldnetdaily article:

In his own commentary, Strang, whose publishing empire includes Charisma magazine and others, noted he supported Gov. Mike Huckabee in the primaries."From my perspective as a conservative Christian he was the perfect candidate – strong on the issues important to me yet an effective leader in Arkansas who is articulate, passionate and caring for those less fortunate.

"But now I'm supporting Sen. John McCain. I've long admired him as a great American hero. On the important issues I believe he's right on. However, he hasn't cozied up to the so-called religious right. But that's not a problem to me. Too many leaders in the Christian conservative movement wait to see who asks for their support instead of being principled. At least McCain is principled," he wrote.

"The fact is that most Christians will vote for McCain because of his stand against abortion and his support of traditional marriage," he said.

Traditional marriage? Principles? According to Arizona Central:

He had an affair while married to his wife, Carol, who not only saw him through his five years as an POW, but sustained massive injuries from a car accident while he was in Viet Nam, with his current second wife, Cindy. He's admitted to having various affairs over the years.

But already the McCains’ marriage had begun to fray. ‘John started carousing and running around with women,’ said Robert Timberg [Annapolis graduate, Robert Timberg, who wrote The Nightingale’s Song, a bestselling biography of McCain and four other graduates of the academy].

"In February 1980, less than a year after he met Cindy, McCain petitioned a Florida court to dissolve his marriage to Carol, calling the union "irretrievably broken."

McCain has acknowledged that he had girlfriends during this time, without going into details.

Some friends blame his dissatisfaction with Carol, but others give some credence to her theory of a mid-life crisis.

Joseph Farrar of Worldnetdaily, in his commentary on what's wrong with McCain, says in part"

For starters, McCain has been, for a very long time, dead wrong on immigration and border policy. He is still dead wrong.

In 2004, voters in his own state passed Proposition 200, requiring proof of citizenship before someone can vote or participate in state giveaway programs. Despite opposition led by McCain, the measure was approved by 56 percent of the vote, with close to 50 percent of Hispanics approving it.

He's not only out of step with Americans on this issue, he's out of step even with his own constituency in Arizona.

He has been a leader in the amnesty cause in the Senate, partnering with Ted Kennedy on the bill's language and sponsorship.

He also led opposition to building the border fence.


But what about judges, you ask? Won't a McCain presidency give Americans a chance to reclaim the Supreme Court in the name of the Constitution and original intent?

The evidence is far from conclusive, given that McCain voted to confirm Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Steven Breyer to the Supreme Court. He also, as is his nature, conspired with Democrats in the Senate to block approval of Bush's most conservative jurists.

He gave us McCain-Feingold – the worst legislative attack on the First Amendment in decades. This law actually restricts political speech prior to elections – a clearly unconstitutional approach to so-called "campaign finance reform."

He's a globalist – standing strong even today behind agreements like NAFTA that are ravaging Third World economies, eliminating jobs in the U.S. and chipping away at U.S. sovereignty and the power of the people.

Need I remind everyone it was John McCain who nearly single-handedly stripped our troops of the interrogation tools they needed to defeat the enemy and prevent attacks on innocent Iraqis and our own soldiers? More than anyone else in American politics, McCain led the fight to stop coercive interrogations, an absolutely essential weapon in our arsenal in the conduct of this war and future wars.

McCain calls it torture. But it is not. Coercive interrogations are a necessity of any successful war campaign. When he stopped them with his legislative campaign, his actions not only prolonged the war and led to higher casualties for American troops and innocent Iraqis, he also ensured any future war will be far most costly in U.S. lives.

The question is in either case, what principles does McCain have or not have for the Dems to consider him an option? He's a RINO and has been for years now. NY Times says:

What Mr. McCain almost never mentions are two extraordinary moments in his political past that are at odds with the candidate of the present: His discussions in 2001 with Democrats about leaving the Republican Party, and his conversations in 2004 with Senator John Kerry about becoming Mr. Kerry’s running mate on the Democratic presidential ticket.

There are wildly divergent versions of both episodes, depending on whether Democrats or Mr. McCain and his advisers are telling the story. The Democrats, including Mr. Kerry, say that not only did Mr. McCain express interest but that it was his camp that initially reached out to them. Mr. McCain and his aides counter that in both cases the Democrats were the suitors and Mr. McCain the unwilling bride.

So McCain:

Is an adulter

Voted FOR two liberal US Supreme Court justices

Tried to BLOCK the conservative justices from being voted IN

Sides with Kennedy, Feingold, and other big DNC leaders

Has considered leaving the GOP for the DNC

Softens coercive interrogations to get information out of our enemies

Is chipping away at the sovereignty of the US

Believes in amnesty for illegal aliens

Opposes building a fence on our borders to deal with the millions of illegals aliens

Opposed requiring proof of citizenship before doleing out citizens' hard earned money--against his own constituants in AZ

So, WHAT principles does his man have? HOW does he support "traditional marriage" when he's got a track record, by his OWN admission, to being an ADULTERER? Is Strang serious? Is this the "values" that runs "Charisma Magazine" etc?

Americans Losing Hope, Become Fearful-Its a Good thing

Ecc 1:2 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity.
Ecc 1:3 What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?

Ecc 1:8 All things are full of weariness; a man cannot utter it; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.

Ecc 1:14 I have seen everything that is done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and a striving after wind.

Ecc 2:11 Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun.

Ecc 2:22 What has a man from all the toil and striving of heart with which he toils beneath the sun?

Ecc 12:13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecc 12:14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.

Perhaps some Americans are now forced out of their comfort zone to realize, things aren't getting better and they are not in control. Perhaps some might come to the end of themselves and cry out to God. Now's a good time to proclaim God's Sovereignty!

Here are excerpts from a news story By ALAN FRAM and EILEEN PUTMAN, Associated Press Writers Sat Jun 21, 3:14 PM ET. I emphasized in bold.


WASHINGTON - Is everything spinning out of control?

Midwestern levees are bursting. Polar bears are adrift. Gas prices are skyrocketing. Home values are abysmal. Air fares, college tuition and health care border on unaffordable. Wars without end rage in Iraq, Afghanistan and against terrorism.

Horatio Alger, twist in your grave.

The can-do, bootstrap approach embedded in the American psyche is under assault. Eroding it is a dour powerlessness that is chipping away at the country's sturdy conviction that destiny can be commanded with sheer courage and perseverance.

The sense of helplessness is even reflected in this year's presidential election. Each contender offers a sense of order — and hope.

Even so, a battered public seems discouraged by the onslaught of dispiriting things.


"It is pretty scary," said Charles Truxal, 64, a retired corporate manager in Rochester, Minn. "People are thinking things are going to get better, and they haven't been. And then you go hide in your basement because tornadoes are coming through. If you think about things, you have very little power to make it change."

Recent natural disasters around the world dwarf anything afflicting the U.S. Consider that more than 69,000 people died in the China earthquake, and that 78,000 were killed and 56,000 missing from the Myanmar cyclone.

Americans need do no more than check the weather, look in their wallets or turn on the news for their daily reality check on a world gone haywire.

Floods engulf Midwestern river towns. Is it global warming, the gradual degradation of a planet's weather that man seems powerless to stop or just a freakish late-spring deluge?

It hardly matters to those in the path. Just ask the people of New Orleans who survived Hurricane Katrina. They are living in a city where, 1,000 days after the storm, entire neighborhoods remain abandoned, a national embarrassment that evokes disbelief from visitors.

Food is becoming scarcer and more expensive on a worldwide scale, due to increased consumption in growing countries such as China and India and rising fuel costs. That can-do solution to energy needs — turning corn into fuel — is sapping fields of plenty once devoted to crops that people need to eat. Shortages have sparked riots. In the U.S., rice prices tripled and some stores rationed the staple.

It's not the first time Americans have felt a loss of control.

American University historian Allan J. Lichtman notes that the U.S. has endured comparable periods and worse, including the economic stagflation (stagnant growth combined with inflation) and Iran hostage crisis of 1980; the dawn of the Cold War, the Korean War and the hysterical hunts for domestic Communists in the late 1940s and early 1950s; and the Depression of the 1930s.

"All those periods were followed by much more optimistic periods in which the American people had their confidence restored," he said. "Of course, that doesn't mean it will happen again."

Each period also was followed by a change in the party controlling the White House.

Why the vulnerability? After all, this is the 21st century, not a more primitive past when little in life was assured. Surely people know how to fix problems now.

Maybe. And maybe this is what the 21st century will be about — a great unraveling of some things long taken for granted.

Endquote.

Jeremiah 17:5, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord.’”

Man cannot give true comfort, answers, and peace to the increasing unrest, failures, and spiritual darkness clouding over our country. But I can see how a world ruler could easily step in and "save the day". People are getting desperate and they will continue to do so, as God moves history according to His plan and will. They will look for answers in politics, the economy, and religion (anything but the Truth of Scripture). Folks, this includes professing "evangelical Christians". The junk in the world is the junk in the "Christian" bookstores.

I'm so glad we know what's ahead, for HE is faithful to Himself and His children, and we know Jesus Christ the Lord will return as King, Judge, and Warrior! Do NOT put your hope in man, whether its a politican, government, schools, even your church leaders or friends and family. Put your trust in He who is faithful and True:

Rev 19:11 Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.

Rev 19:12 His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and He has a name written that no one knows but Himself.
Rev 19:13 He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which He is called is The Word of God.
Rev 19:14 And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following Him on white horses.
Rev 19:15 From His mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.
Rev 19:16 On His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.

John MacArthur: Expository Preaching Cuts All Cultural Worldviews Because Scripture Is Authoritatively Proclaimed

Pro 30:5 Every word of God proves true; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.

Mat 5:18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.

Below is an excerpt of an interview with John MacArthur from the Pulpit Magazine. John explains why expository preaching is best way to preach:

"Well first, because it is a biblical mandate. It doesn’t fluctuate with culture, with expectations, with times or seasons. Expository preaching is the best way to preach the Bible. If every word of God is pure, if every word of God is true, then every word needs to be dealt with. And expository preaching is only way you actually come to grips with every word in the Scriptures."

In dealing with the Post-Modern culture, does a faithful pastor change the method Scripture has given, to relate to the current thinking or to prime the pump so they are less resistant to the Gospel? No. There is but one Gospel, one Message, and we see that throughout Scripture. Contrary to Tim Keller's multiple gospels and presentations (he has to first figure whether he's talking to the "circumsized" (religious people) or "the uncircumcised" (Post-modernists--which leads me to wonder, what unregenerate person today is not Post-Modern anyway?).

The article continues:

QUESTION: What are the unique challenges or difficulties of preaching to a postmodern culture?

First of all, you have to understand that when you talk about a postmodern culture, that’s an academic assessment of the culture. The average Joe doesn’t have any idea what that means. All he knows is he’s pretty much free to think and do whatever he wants. That’s how postmodernism filters down to the guy in the pew. It’s not a philosophy—it’s a lifestyle. The average guy just knows that the culture doesn’t care what he does. The movies he sees don’t make a moral judgment on anything except racism or somebody’s intolerance. So he’s free to do whatever he wants in the society, and nobody can tell him what to be or what to do, and the bottom line is that he should feel good about himself. That’s what filters down.

But all this goes completely against the grain of his conscience and his reason, and ultimately what he knows to be true. The unbeliever’s conscience is a reality, and even reason tells him that there have to be some absolutes.

The bottom line is that expository preaching confronts the amorality of postmodernism with an authoritative message of absolute truth. It’s not a question of debating. It’s not a question of trying to find some way to sneak that in. It’s an issue of confronting this kind of thinking with the absolute authority of Scripture and then letting the Spirit of God make the application to the heart.

QUESTION: What are the advantages of expository preaching in a postmodern culture?

Expository preaching is the only thing that is going to change anything. There isn’t any other way to affect people positively aside from hitting them with that kind of authority. In my own preaching, my objective is not to court the postmodern mind. My objective is to confront it—to hit it stone cold in the face with truth. It’s irrelevant to me how the person thinks. It’s only relevant to me how they need to think. So I’m not going to play around with their sensitivities to postmodernism.

At a recent Bible conference, I spoke on the exclusivity of the gospel, and I set forth the distinctiveness of Christianity. And afterward some guys who were seminary students and philosophy majors came up to me and said, “What’s really interesting about your message is that you gave us a philosophy of thinking, a worldview. But we’ve never heard anyone give that kind of worldview without a very intricate philosophical defense.” And I said I didn’t need to give an intricate philosophical defense, because this is exactly what Scripture says, and there is no need to defend it. You just proclaim it. See these guys were struck by the fact that what they heard was an absolute authoritative statement of a worldview that takes on postmodernism, without having to fuddle around and make all kinds of philosophical and rational arguments, and without having to answer every objection that arises.

So the advantages of preaching expositionally and authoritatively in a postmodern culture are the same as they are in any environment where there is error—you bring an authoritative word to bear upon how people think.

What are these seminarians learning in school? What a disaster!

Scripture is sufficient, it is all powerful, it must be held in the highest place of esteem over all people, thoughts, books, schools, professors, etc.

Ps. 1:2… You have exalted above all things Your name and Your word.

JC Watts & Armstrong Jones Play The Racist Card

Now JC Watts, who I used to like, is playing the race card.

Besides that, apparently he used to be a Southern Baptist Convention pastor before becoming a politician ( didn't realize that before--that in itself is clue #1; anyone who gives us "the call" wasn't called and to be a politician you have to lie--both disqualifiers for being an elder).
He's also playing politics really well, by using the "I didn't say *that*" line, when asked about voting for Obama, when that's all that is left to infer.

Good thing he's not behind a pulpit. Apparently being an undershepherd wasn't good enough for him. Now he can hound the GOP for their "lack of reaching out to the Blacks".

Armstrong Williams also may vote for Obama for the racist issue too. Give me a break.

They're all killing me. Bunch of compromising racists. Glad I left the GOP in the dust.

Fear God.
Vote Biblically.
Don't Compromise.©

Parchment & Pen Offers Sufficiency Of Probability

Websters's: Indubitability:too evident to be doubted : unquestionable. Yes, I had to look up the big fancy word.

Michael Patton : The Sufficiency of Probability

In part he says (after giving an illustration of slapping his kids behind when they are looking then claim he didn't do it, but rather some guy who ran into the room then ran out):

There was celebration at Descartes seeming defeat of the skepticism of his day. His “I think therefore I am” looked as if it provided a bridge to attain the type of certainty to which humans have never been privy. His methodology, which became known as “the Cartesian method,” was adopted in large part by those in the West. And thus began the Age of Reason, where certainty—indubitable certainty—reined supreme.

Christianity was never bound by any sort of indubitability from a human perspective. We have never been required to check the lock on any door. In fact, no one actually can or does live by such a method in the acquisition of truth.

But alas, we often think we are supposed to. We have turned “the evidence that demands a verdict” into “the evidence that produces indubitability.” At least that is what we are pressured into doing.

Once this method does not produce absolute certainty, once we cannot account for the door being unlocked, we find ourselves wondering why we are being forced to check the door in the first place. Yet we do it anyway. When the door is unlocked, those who are epistemically conditioned to find this substantial, either, like my children, enter into a state of suspended belief, doubt, or skepticism or opt for a “leap of faith” that demands no evidence, and then sneer at those who do demand evidence as if it is passé.

Probability is sufficient. We neither need to go into intellectual hibernation and accept our beliefs on blind faith. Nor do we need to suspend our belief until all the objections are answered (we don’t need to check the door).

What I posed to my children was merely a possibility to explain the slap, but possibilities do not create probabilities. We are responsible in this life to act upon the revelation given to us, not to seek absolute indubitability.

We are neither postmodern skeptics nor modern rationalists. We find value in both skepticism, when truly warranted, and rationality, when the probability is conditioned by God to be such.

In other words, our belief in Christ’s resurrection should not be sidetracked simply because someone presents an alternative possibility. Yes, we engage these alternatives, but we don’t give them more credit than they deserve. Those who say that the Christian story borrowed from other religions or that Christ’s body was thrown into a shallow grave have simply presented other possibilities that are often no more sufficient to warrant credibility than my “look, the door is unlocked.” Possibility, yes. Probability, no.

Don’t be shaken by unlikely theories.
Don’t hypocritically require indubitability.
Don’t think that all possibilities are equal.
Don’t opt for a “leap of faith” type of faith.
Don’t become unglued because all we have is probability.

Unquote.

Yet again Patton feeds on doubt and skepticism, rather than the Truth we KNOW. Scripture doesn't deal with probabilities, but knowable Truth.

1Jn 1:1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life--
1Jn 1:2 the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us--
1Jn 1:3 that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.

1Jo 2:21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth.

1Jo 3:19 By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him;

2Pe 1:12 Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have.

1Ti 4:1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

1Ti 4:3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.

Joh 14:17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows Him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.

Act 4:33 And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.

Act 2:23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it....

Act 26:22 To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass:
Act 26:23 that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles."

Probabilities, even possibilities are not part of Truth. Instead they consider falsehoods.

Php 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Are we to think on "what if's" or what is probably true? No. We are to KNOW the Truth and then THINK ON IT.

It is NOT possible that the body of Jesus was thrown into a shallow grave. Why? Because God Himself told us what happened: Jesus rose from the dead by the power of God. Therefore we destroy any argument to the contrary; any "alternate" view, because it slaps the face of Truth given clearly by God.

1Jn 5:9 If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater, for this is the testimony of God that he has borne concerning his Son.

There is a reason we are to have childlike faith.

There is never enough evidence for a skeptic and Scripture is never enough for a "scholar" nor skeptic. That is their condemnation before God.

(It would seem to "be fair" that Patton must also use"sufficiency of probability" to what is false. Just how far is he willing to go? He already admits to giving some veracity to the "possability" that Jesus did NOT resurrect.)

A "Reluctant Vote" Is Still A "Yes Vote" And That's All The GOP Sees

The SBC members sound like they will "reluctantly vote" for womanizing, adulterer, liberal John McCain. I have to ask, what does a "reluctant vote" look like? Is it a shakey "x"? Is it a very tiny "x" next to McCain's name? Does the "X" say, "Hey I may be an X but I really don't want to be here!"? Is there a pile for votes marked "Reluctant Votes" ? I mean, come on. All the whining and complaining means nothing, NOTHING, if you still vote for the ungodly, womanizing, no-integrity, compromising RINO.

The ONLY vote McCain will see is the "x". He doesn't give a rip about how reluctant or supportive the voter is. He just wants that X next to his name.

So all of you guys who will be voting for the liberal RINO while "holding your nose", just remember, he's HAPPY for your vote and doesn't care how hesitant you are. Your reluctance goes unnoticed. As does your "nose-holding" and whining.

Jeremiah 17:5, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord.’”

Fear God, not man.
Vote biblically not pragmatically.
Don't compromise.

Creationism..Intellegent Design...Strengths & Weaknesses: the De-Evolution (Compromise) of the "Creationist" Stand

From the New York Times:

DALLAS — Opponents of teaching evolution, in a natural selection of sorts, have gradually shed those strategies that have not survived the courts. Over the last decade, creationism has given rise to “creation science,” which became “intelligent design,” which in 2005 was banned from the public school curriculum in Pennsylvania by a federal judge.

Now a battle looms in Texas over science textbooks that teach evolution, and the wrestle for control seizes on three words. None of them are “creationism” or “intelligent design” or even “creator.”

The words are “strengths and weaknesses.”

I would call that the de-evolution of anti-evolutionists. Well, actually, they are not Creationists or for Creation; increasingly they are just anti-evolution, since they have dropped "creation" from their terms and they merely want options available regarding how the teaching of evolution is done. The movie "Expelled" is an example of this.

Seriously, they are such compromisers, how can they expect the Lord to bless their movement? They are trying to be sneaky and not mention God nor a literal Six Day Creation and therefore not getting what they want anyway. As one begin label doesn't work, they find one even less so. Now there's no mention of Creation at all. Just question evolution's strengths and weaknesses. Exactly where are the strengths of a false notion like evolution?? Scripture says no lie is of the Truth.

I just wish Christians (I know others are also want Creation--other religious groups) would get guts and put out clearly what they hold to and be done with it. Take the heat, take the insults, take the persecution for holding out bodly that Jesus Christ the Lord is Creator. Instead they are fearing man.

As it is, the Evolutionists are winning because they haven't changed their message or termonology...the "Christians" have. Sort of like with RCC. It didn't change but Christians have slowly been compromising with it.

Richard Mouw's Restless God

In an article posted a few days ago at the Reformed Church of America's website, they report of Richard Mouw's remarks to the General Synod's conference last week.

General Synod vice president Carol Bechtel introduced Richard Mouw, as "a prominent Reformed theologian and president of Fuller Theological Seminary. "

It said:

Mouw spoke to synod delegates Saturday evening on what it means to be both Reformed and missional. "It is so important for us as Reformed Christians who follow a restless Savior, a restless God, to be restless in following God in being missional," he said.

"I love the Reformed confessions," he added. "There is a sovereign God; human beings are incapable of saving themselves; and salvation is by grace alone."

He said Reformed Christians need to guard against the tendency in today's culture to affirm a finite God, to preach a gospel of self-salvation.


Since when is God "restless"? Restless is defined as:

1: lacking or denying rest : uneasy 2: continuously moving : unquiet 3: characterized by or manifesting unrest especially of mind restless pacing

Unquiet: 1 : not quiet : agitated, turbulent

This isn't the God of peace, the God of rest.

Php 4:6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Php 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Php 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Php 4:9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Rom 15:33 May the God of peace be with you all. Amen. Rom 15:33 May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

Rom 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

1Th 5:23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Heb 13:20 Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant,

Heb 4:9 So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, 10 for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. 11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.

Isa 32:17 And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. 18 My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.

2Co 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2Co 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,

The article went on to say, "He referred several times to Heidelberg Catechism Q&A #1: "What is your only comfort in life and in death? That I am not my own, but belong--body and soul, in life and in death--to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. "

This isn't surprising whatsoever to me, as Reformers are very man-centered people who'd much rather quote a catechism or confession or a famous professor rather than Scripture. Its empty words of man's opinion, but it seems that most consider, in the words of a friend, Scripture as the milk and theologians as the meat.

It is no wonder, then, that Mouw has a low view of God and a high view of man. No wonder he thinks its up to men to persuade others to ...well I don't know what. He's infamous for apologizing to the Mormons on behalf of Evangelicals. That was the same meeting Ravi Zacharius preached in the Mormon pulpit and Michael Card sang songs of worship. It was named, "An Evening of Friendship."

There he said: "Indeed, let me state it bluntly to the LDS folks here this evening: we have sinned against you. The God of the Scriptures makes it clear that it is a terrible thing to bear false witness against our neighbors, and we have been guilty of that sort of transgression in things we have said about you. We have told you what you believe without making a sincere effort first of all to ask you what you believe. "

Richard Mouw is an impediment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who, is NOT the brother of Satan, a created being, but rather is Eternally God the Son, the Second Person in the Trinity. There is no common ground between the two camps. It seems Mouw doesn't understand the fundamentals of The Faith.

Increasingly and at a rapid pace, this passage is becoming the war-cry of true believers to men such as Mouw who are false teachers:

2Co 6:14 Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
2Co 6:15 What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?
2Co 6:16 What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, "I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
2Co 6:17 Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you,

Considering his views on Mormons, one must wonder to whom would Mouw advocate being "missional"? If he's not willing to tell the Mormons they are liars and deceivers because they say Jesus is merely a created being, and that they have a false gospel, ie, they have damnable doctrines of demons, then he won't tell anyone their need of the Truth. Then again, he can't give what he doesn't have.

Gal 1:6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--
Gal 1:7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.
Gal 1:8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.
Gal 1:9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.
Gal 1:10 For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

So much for being "missional". And more than that, God is not restless. He is Sovereignly in control of all His creation. He's not behind schedule, impatient, uneasy, or troubled. Such a painting of God is a lie. In fact Scripture says He knows the end from the beginning and He is working all things to the conformity of His will and purpose. His timing is always perfect because HE is perfect. Then again, Mouw's god reflects the gods of false religions, if not at the very least the Open Theist god if not the Mormon one.

What I loved from Robert Morey's " A Few Thoughts On Apostasy"

I read this blog entry today and was struck at how right on Robert Morey is. MAN, I'm loving this guy's boldness! He sees what I see and he's a straight shooter like me. BRING IT ON brother!!!

What I loved from "A Few Thoughts on Apostasy" by Robert Morey

My only hurdle is to choose which parts to post...they're all really GOOD. I suggest you just go read the whole thing. Its short, but loaded with truth and boldness. And we can all use that more as the days grow dark. I've added just a couple of comments in brackets and italics. ~Denise

Quote:

The question of whether we should question the salvation experience of those who teach false doctrine is an important question that is increasingly an issue today. The moment you question the salvation of anyone, you are attacked on every hand as being mean. Yet, those who condemn us for doing so have never dealt with the following questions.

1. Did Jesus question the salvation of the religious leaders and teachers of his day?
2. Did he call them names and heap ridicule on them?
3. Was He right or wrong to do so?
4. Was He mean and unloving?
5. Should we follow his example and walk as he walked?
6. Did Jesus tell us to judge some people to be false prophets, dogs, and pigs?
7. Did Paul follow the example of Jesus and cast doubt on the salvation of people in the church who claimed to be “brothers?”
8. Did he call them names and heap ridicule on them?
9. Did Paul call some professing Christians “false brethren?”
10. Did he tell us to follow him as he followed Christ?
11. Did John, the Apostle of Love, tell us to question the profession of salvation made people? “He that says, “I know him” but ….”
12. Did Peter cast doubt on the conversion of professing Christians in his day?
13. What did he say to Simon in Acts 8?

These questions help us to frame the issue of whether we should, at this time, in the light of their recent teachings, question the salvation of J. P. Moreland, William Craig, and their disciples. Given what they are now teaching, we must put a huge question mark over their head. Frank Beckwith is a good example. He was not thrilled when I cast doubt on his salvation. But now that I have been 100% vindicated by his apostasy to popery, my doubts and warnings were right on target.

When I was Chairman of the membership committee of the ETS, I often doubted the salvation of such men as Gundry, Pinnock, etc. who denied the inerrancy of Scripture. They were offended when I told them that I did NOT accept them as fellow Christians. I have always been open and honest about such things. I told Frankie Schaeffer on a radio program several years ago that he was apostate and on his way to hell. He got all offended that I refused to accept him as a Christian. But now that he openly rejects the gospel and has joined the Orthodox cult, I have been vindicated 100%.

The main problem is that many religious leaders today say one thing and teach another. If you ask Gregory Boyd or the other “Open View of God” heretics if they believe in the “omniscience” of God, they will say, “Yes.” Dumb Christians are satisfied at this point and go their merry way deceived and hoodwinked. But if you force them to define the term “omniscience,” they end up denying that God knows all things! They claim that God does not and cannot know the future.

Just because someone says, “I believe in sola scriptura,” does not mean he really believes in it. If he elsewhere says that the Bible is not the final authority in faith and practice, he has denied in substance what he supposedly affirmed as a slogan. Heretics have always done this. What they affirm with the right hand is what they deny with the left hand. It does not matter what doctrine is at stake.

a. In the early 1980s, those who denied the inerrancy of Scripture did not begin by openly denying it. They redefined it until the term “inerrancy” meant errors! [Sounds like Reclaiming The Mind's Michael Patton to me]

b. Those who deny the ontological deity of Christ try to deceive people at first by pretending they do believe in the deity of Christ. It is only upon careful questioning that the truth comes out. [I've been called an Inquistionist for questioning someone who's sounding very strange in doctrine and gives me red flags all over the place.]They only accept a functional meaning of the deity of Christ in that he functioned as a revelation of God, just as the heavens do. But they deny that Jesus was ontologically GOD as well as man.

c. Those who deny the bodily resurrection of Christ often pretend to believe in it by tricky words and double talk. Believe me; I have heard some slick theologians in my day! [No kidding! I have too...by Matt Slick. His twist is that if a person just doesn't know about the resurrection, then they are still saved, but if the person rejects the resurrection then they are not saved. This is word play and he's been caught red-handed by many people online. He still holds to this view, after all he didn't know Jesus was "physically resurrected for two years after he was saved" Scroll down to Surphing # 3 paragraph C for one instance.]

Apostasy in Scripture is of two kinds: doctrinal and moral.

A heretic can be a good person who is very moral. Yet, he can also be an anti-Christ. The monk Pelagius was according to all a good man, morally speaking. Thus when I point out some teacher as a heretic, evanjellyfish usually respond, “But he is sooo nice! He is a good man. How dare you attack him!”

They assume that heretics are always mean and vile. A nice heretic who says that right phrases and theological clichés cannot be a heretic in their mind.The problem with heretics who are “nice” is that we tend to let them get away with the most outrageous teaching because they seem to be so nice...

I hope these words are not twisted to mean I think I can judge their hearts. That is something only God can do.

But I am bound by the Word of God to judge their theology.

I can do no other.

Robert Morey

End Quote.

AMEN!

Upon reading about the defection of Evangelical Theological Society's president, Dr. Frank Beckwith to Rome, his resume screamed WARNING! Did anyone see this besides Morey?

Reclaiming The Mind's "Converse With A Scholar" ministry (founder is Michael Patton), offered Beckwith on their program online on February 28, 2008. I wonder if this is why Patton was all over the map on the RCC, basically defending it in his unsure, "irenic" yet unbiblical way, in his interview with James White on The Dividing Line:

James White: An RCer rejecting sola fide, as Rome has not only denied but taught works, does that person have eternal life?

Patton: I would say yes they do, but they have a much harder, like the Corinthians. They were polytheist Christians (hear it at time marker 1:15:40). They need the full gospel. They can, though. I'm not saying anybody does.

Unquote.

It has long been my view that those who turn the Narrow Road into the Broad Road do so because they have a loved one or a friend who's lost and they rather have him or her on the way to heaven, so they make the road broader than what Scripture says it is. Indeed, this may be the case here.

I've also realized that those who are huge readers of men's books and are at the higher levels of academia are some of the most liberal-infested minds around, including the Reformed schools. It is because they are exposed to error so much, just to be "fair and balance" that they end up swallowing the lies. Look at the authors Frank Beckwith has cozied up with: W.L. Craig = Open Theist; JP Moreland says some Evangelicals are "over committed to Scripture"; Koukl says Scripture isn't sufficient, we need other things like the wisdom of Pagans and psychology.

Let's not forget it was the Evangelical Theological Society that aided and abetted Open Theists Greg Boyd, Clark Pinnock, and John Sanders. So WISE were the scholars of the ETS that they never could get enough votes to throw them out of their affluent little group. I have NO patience for such garbage as ETS. It needs to be destroyed, never to be heard of again. Truly.

Col 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.

Act 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.

Rom 16:17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

2Co 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 2Co 10:5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, 2Co 10:6 being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.

Tragic Grief and The God Who Comforts

I learned today that Steven Curtis Chapman lost his five year old daughter to a car accident involving his son who was apparently driving. As a parent, I know that is one of the most horrific nightmares one can imagine. My heart is grieved for their loss and I am sure many believers are praying for that family. I pray especially for the son, who must feel great guilt. He is the one who needs God's grace and mercy right now and for the rest of his life. I have no idea if he is saved, but either way he will need the Lord desperately.

Many people are familiar with Is. 40:30-31, but do you know its context? I believe it gives greater meaning to the very last verses. May anyone who reads these passages from Scripture or is facing a trial in their lives, find comfort from the God of ALL comfort and may HE be glorified in your pain and heartach, for HE is our Rock and Shield, our very Help in times of trouble; the God Who Sees; The Healer of broken hearts.


Isa 40:1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
Isa 40:2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the LORD's hand double for all her sins.
Isa 40:3 A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
Isa 40:4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain.
Isa 40:5 And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken."
Isa 40:6 A voice says, "Cry!" And I said, "What shall I cry?" All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field.
Isa 40:7 The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the LORD blows on it; surely the people are grass.
Isa 40:8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.
Isa 40:9 Get you up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news; lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah, "Behold your God!"
Isa 40:10 Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.
Isa 40:11 He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.
Isa 40:12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens with a span, enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance?
Isa 40:13 Who has measured the Spirit of the LORD, or what man shows him his counsel?
Isa 40:14 Whom did he consult, and who made him understand? Who taught him the path of justice, and taught him knowledge, and showed him the way of understanding?
Isa 40:15 Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are accounted as the dust on the scales; behold, he takes up the coastlands like fine dust.
Isa 40:16 Lebanon would not suffice for fuel, nor are its beasts enough for a burnt offering.
Isa 40:17 All the nations are as nothing before him, they are accounted by him as less than nothing and emptiness.
Isa 40:18 To whom then will you liken God, or what likeness compare with him?
Isa 40:19 An idol! A craftsman casts it, and a goldsmith overlays it with gold and casts for it silver chains.
Isa 40:20 He who is too impoverished for an offering chooses wood that will not rot; he seeks out a skillful craftsman to set up an idol that will not move.
Isa 40:21 Do you not know? Do you not hear? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth?
Isa 40:22 It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in;
Isa 40:23 who brings princes to nothing, and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness.
Isa 40:24 Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown, scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth, when he blows on them, and they wither, and the tempest carries them off like stubble.
Isa 40:25 To whom then will you compare me, that I should be like him? says the Holy One.
Isa 40:26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name, by the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power not one is missing.
Isa 40:27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, "My way is hidden from the LORD, and my right is disregarded by my God"?
Isa 40:28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.
Isa 40:29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Isa 40:30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;
Isa 40:31 but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

**************

2Co 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,
2Co 1:4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
2Co 1:5 For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
2Co 1:6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer.
2Co 1:7 Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.
2Co 1:8 For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself.
2Co 1:9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.
2Co 1:10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.

********

Isa 53:3 He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isa 53:4 Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.

*****
Psa 103:8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Psa 103:9 He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever.
Psa 103:10 He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities.
Psa 103:11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
Psa 103:12 as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psa 103:13 As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.
Psa 103:14 For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.

*****

Selling Photos of Scripture To Raise Money

Dan Wallace of Parchment and Pen/Reclaiming The Mind exploits photos of some Scripture manuscripts as a fund rasier:

OK, I admit it: this is shameless of me. It’s tactless, mercenary, and almost despicable. Nevertheless, I’m going forth with it because I believe that, in this case, the ends justify the means. Not that I’ve changed my ethical convictions, but rather than the ends are so vital that a “certain moral flexibility” (as Martin Blank said in his self-description in Grosse Point Blank) is tolerable. And if not tolerable, at least I can always ask for forgiveness (I’ll take that route over asking for permission any day! (;-)).

Here’s my spiel: This past Saturday evening was the annual fundraiser dinner for the Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts. As many of you know, we are trying to raise $500,000 for 15 months’ worth of photographic expeditions, starting next month. After the fundraiser, we now have over $150,000 toward that lofty goal. We are extremely grateful to all who have contributed to the work of digitally preserving ancient copies of the Word of God. We did a new thing at the dinner, and it’s something that I’d like to pass on to you who live in the USA. We had some blow-ups of manuscript photographs for sale. The size was 18” x 24”. Each was laminated and was glued to a stiff backboard. The resolution was outstanding. Each picture is numbered on the back; we will only make 500 copies. Then no more. Each comes with a certificate giving the details of what’s in the image, including the age of the manuscript, the text, etc. (A much briefer description is found below.)

The images are for sale at $150 apiece. Half of that money constitutes a tax-deductible donation to CSNTM; half is the market price of the image. Shipping is extra: $10 for the continental US. Many of you live in the Dallas area and could pick up the picture yourself, thus saving on shipping costs. Some of you may wish to add more to the check as a donation to CSNTM. We’ll note the difference and send you a statement to that effect.

Wallace is right, this is shameless, dispicable, and tactless. He should be ashamed, selling photos of Scripture's manuscripts. Whatever his excuse is, it doesn't pass Scripture's test:

2Co 2:17 For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.

2Co 4:2 But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.

1Th 2:9 For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.

1Ti 6:20 O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called "knowledge," 21 for by professing it some have swerved from the faith. Grace be with you.

We Can't Be Overcommitted to Scripture: We Usually Hold the Word Too Low

Psa 138:2 ... for You have exalted above all things Your name and Your word.

I came across an excellent article by Stephen Macasil that expresses my own views very clearly. In this article Stephen deals with J.P. Moreland's error. Moreland has recently been offered by Reclaiming The Mind's Converse With A Scholar program (this is a ministry arm of Dallas Theological Seminary & Stonebriar Community Church). Here is part of Stephen Macasil's article:



Too many times we have been passé rather than angry! What if Jesus, when he saw those money changers in the temple, acted passively instead of what John tells us he did? What if he nudged one of the other observers with his elbow and said “wow, check out those dudes, no respect for the temple man,” and went about his day shaking his head in disappointment. He didn’t! He saw it, grabbed some cords and braided a whip. Then he stormed in there with whip swinging, turning over heavy granite tables and kicking people out. His actions provoked the question: “What sign do you show for doing these things?” He answered: “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” You all know the story (John 2:14-22).


When a notable philosophy professor at a Christian University speaks to a crowd of conservative Christian leaders and says that Evangelicals are “over-committed to Scripture,” it should make you angry. It should not be simply waved off for what it is: irrational and absurd. It should make us angry to the point that we do something about it. That’s what we will be doing here for at least the next year or ??? If nobody challenges an ideology, it is bound to grow into something bigger. What Moreland has done is create a straw-man (bibliolatry), drawn absurdities from the straw-man, and swooped in with a solution to the very problem he has created with his own hands. What must be challenged is his negative portrayal of the role of Scripture for those who hold a very high view of Scripture. This can be done by demonstrating that the Bible opposes what he teaches and that it can be reasonably believed as the motive for why he has created the fictive bibliolaters in his imagination. Such unbiblical ideas like freewill, natural theology, natural law, man’s Reason, contemplative meditation, pagan philosophy etc., are ideas that are foundational to Moreland’s worldview. Reduce the role of Scripture in theology and practice and these ideas will fly like the eagle! Maintain that the Bible is the final authority and these ideas die!


In his response to his paper’s critics, he mentioned that his intention was to deliver the paper to academics, not laypersons. But as Frank Pastore said, Moreland is a master wordsmith that chooses his words very carefully and knew exactly how he was going to say what he wanted to say. Never did he ever give any examples of who the infamous bibliolaters are. I have waited, searched, waited some more, and he never gave the example of any church, theologian, denomination, movement, etc., that claims that nothing can exist outside of the Bible. Are there even real people out there that believe this? Are there any Christians that really believe cars don’t exist because they’re not in the Bible (except for the accord)?


Thank you Stephen! I'm so tired of professing Christians speaking the lie of Satan, who made the first attack on God's Word with such a low view was Satan himself:Gen 3:1 "Did God actually say...?"


I'm equally tired of professing Christians not getting angry about the attack on God, His authority, and His Word. If that doesn't get us involved in the War on Truth, WHAT WILL? Jude speaks to this very issue--we are to EARNESTLY CONTEND for the faith! Sin, error, deception in HIS name SHOULD anger us. It SHOULD anger us to see His sheep led astray and given a diet of garbage instead of healthy food. Read Jeremiah7, the 11th verse is what Jesus was quoting when clearing out the moneychangers:


Jer 7:8 "Behold, you trust in deceptive words to no avail. Jer 7:9 Will you steal, murder, commit adultery, swear falsely, make offerings to Baal, and go after other gods that you have not known, Jer 7:10 and then come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, 'We are delivered!'--only to go on doing all these abominations? Jer 7:11 Has this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, I myself have seen it, declares the LORD.


The deception done in HIS name and in HIS temple was an abomination to God. He was angry. David also conveyed this idea:


Psa 139:19 Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God! O men of blood, depart from me! 20 They speak against you with malicious intent; your enemies take your name in vain! 21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you? 22 I hate them with complete hatred; I count them my enemies. 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!


Like Moreland and others, when you have a low view of Scripture, you will also have a low view of God and a very high view of man.


To quote Michael Patton (he's a member of the Evangelical Theological Society as is Moreland, and also director of Reclaiming the Mind (minstry of Chuch Swindoll's church and Dallas Theological Seminary):

“The presupposition is this: All writers of Scripture, by virtue ofdivine inspiration and inerrancy, must have recorded everything in a technically precise way. I take issue with this presupposition. I do not believe that inspiration and inerrancy require technical precision."“The Gospel writers were simply telling the story of Christ asenthusiastic reporters of good news who were emotionally committed to the truths upon which they were reporting. This happens every day in ourown news reporting system and we don’t hold their feet to the fire oftechnical precision.”“Did the writers record the very words of Christ or the spirit oftruth that his words represent? I would say any inductive approach to arriving at a hermeneutical method demands the latter.”


More low views of God's Word by Michael Patton defending his friend and Dallas Theological Cemetary (he's written a book for New Testament Greek classes in cemetaries), Dan Wallace :


We believe that the Bible is a product that involves 100% man’s input and 100% God’s, don’t we? If we don’t, then we might as well take man out of the picture all together and admit we hold to mechanical dictation (that God simply used the human authors’ hands in writing the Scripture, not their head—sometimes called biblical docetism). If mechanical dictation is true, then we should not care who the authors were writing to and we certainly should not care why they are writing since their motives do not influence the interpretation. I take it that this is all Dan is doing when he makes such statements. He is trying to help people understand that in order to discover the divine purpose of Scripture, we must first take into account the human purpose. I do understand that people have taken this type of redaction criticism too far. Some have gone to the point of denying the truthfulness of the event based upon the expediency of the moment. But this is not in any way what Dan is doing. He is just giving the authors liberty to write an accurate account of the events, while not having to be technically precise with the wording or structure. Scholars refer to this distinction as the difference between ipsissima verba (the very words) and ipsissima vox (the very voice). Did the writers record the very words of Christ or the spirit of truth that his words represent? I would say any inductive approach to arriving at a hermeneutical method demands the latter.


The Canon of Scripture isn't closed, Patton says.


Spurgeon deals with those who have such a low view of Scripture:


"Find Jesus where you may, He is the antagonist of those who would lessen the authority of Holy Scripture. “It is written” is His weapon against Satan, His argument against wicked men. The learned of this hour scoff at the Book and accuse of Bibliolatry those of us who reverence the Divine Word; but in this they derive no assistance from the teaching or example of Jesus."—Spurgeon


"Not a word derogatory of Scripture ever fell from the lips of Jesus Christ; but evermore He manifested the most reverent regard for every jot and tittle of the inspired Volume. Since our Savior, not only before His death, but after it, took care to commend the Scriptures to us, let us avoid with all our hearts all teaching in which Holy Scripture is put into the background."--Spurgeon


Greg Koukl of Stand To Reason ministry (also a guest of Reclaiming the Mind's Converse With a Scholar) questions "Is the Bible Sufficient?" which Martin Bobgan of Psycho-heresy Awareness Ministry critiques and says:


One of Koukl’s arguments supporting his insufficiency-of-Scripture position is his view of what he calls "Wisdom from the Heathen." Koukl’s position implies that if the Bible contains wisdom taken from heathens, then Christians can use wisdom from psychology heathens or others. Koukl says:


The Wisdom Literature of the Amenomope is a body of work from the Middle East that pre-dates Proverbs. It’s of interest because it contains a section of material almost identical to Proverbs 22:17-24:22. It’s highly probable that the authors of the latter part of Proverbs borrowed this material from the Amenomope and inserted it into the inspired text.

Scripture says:


Psa 119:89 Forever, O LORD, Your word is firmly fixed in the heavens.

Psa 138:2 I bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your steadfast love and your faithfulness, for You have exalted above all things Your name and Your word.

Is. 8: 20 To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.

2Ti 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.

Joh 17:17 Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.

Mat 4:4 But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"

Psa 119:104 Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.

Psa 1:1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

Psa 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;