There is something spiritually and emotionally cathartic with beginning anew...a new job, a new school, a new car, a new city, a new year.
There is a liberating feeling and a fresh perspective that comes with beginning anew. Jeremiah wrote, "His compassions fail not; they are new every morning." (Lam. 3:22-23) The beginning of a new year brings great promise and great anticipation. Whatever 2010 was for you, I pray that 2011 will be a year you will never want to forget. Here is my prayer for you:
- that you draw closer to God
- that you drink deeply from His Word
- that you dwell richly with Him in prayer
- that you speak boldly of His love
- that you work diligently for His Kingdom
- that you serve humbly within His church
- that you worship sacrificially His Son
Happy New Year to you and your family!
Pastor Randy
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Big Question...Answered!
So, finally, I have the time to answer the last Big Question:
What are the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis 6?
Great question! There are two plausible explanations offered by scholars. "Nephilim" = fallen ones, tyrants; they were the offspring of sexual relations between the sons of God and the daughters of men.
Explanation 1: The "sons of God" were the god-fearing descendents of Seth and the "daughters of men" were the unholy descendents of Cain. This union created evil men who were renowned for their tyranny and strength.
Explanation 2: The "sons of God" were fallen angels (demons) who had sexual relations with female humans. The offspring were powerful and evil. Why would demons do such a thing? One answer is that they may have been attempting to pollute the human bloodline in order to prevent the coming Promised One - Jesus Christ (reference God's promise in Genesis 3:15).
Whatever your understanding, it is clear from the immediate context of their mention that God was grieved by the wickedness of that generation and thereby determined to judge the world by sending the flood.
The story of the Nephilim demonstrates both the wickedness of man and the holiness of God. We should not be surprised by God's response to the Nephilim but we should be in awe of His sovereign choice to save those 8 persons from the judgment of the flood! What a picture of God's mercy and grace!
Peace to all of you and your families this Christmas Season!
Pastor Randy
What are the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis 6?
Great question! There are two plausible explanations offered by scholars. "Nephilim" = fallen ones, tyrants; they were the offspring of sexual relations between the sons of God and the daughters of men.
Explanation 1: The "sons of God" were the god-fearing descendents of Seth and the "daughters of men" were the unholy descendents of Cain. This union created evil men who were renowned for their tyranny and strength.
Explanation 2: The "sons of God" were fallen angels (demons) who had sexual relations with female humans. The offspring were powerful and evil. Why would demons do such a thing? One answer is that they may have been attempting to pollute the human bloodline in order to prevent the coming Promised One - Jesus Christ (reference God's promise in Genesis 3:15).
Whatever your understanding, it is clear from the immediate context of their mention that God was grieved by the wickedness of that generation and thereby determined to judge the world by sending the flood.
The story of the Nephilim demonstrates both the wickedness of man and the holiness of God. We should not be surprised by God's response to the Nephilim but we should be in awe of His sovereign choice to save those 8 persons from the judgment of the flood! What a picture of God's mercy and grace!
Peace to all of you and your families this Christmas Season!
Pastor Randy
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Open Your Eyes...
When we honestly assess the message of the Bible, we cannot get around the command to "Tell the Good News to Everyone we meet." In fact, we find the Great Commission from Jesus in all four Gospels and also in the book of Acts. There is no doubt what Jesus' marching orders were and are for the church.
On Sunday, we distributed stalks of wheat to everyone. The wheat is representative of the harvest of believers. Jesus said to His disciples, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest?' I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest."
The Christmas season is the perfect time of year to have spirtiual conversations with those who do not yet follow Jesus. Please take some time, after reading this blog, to jot down the names of 3 people who you know are NOT saved. If you can't think of three people who are not saved, take some steps to meet some new people!
Once you have those three names, do the following: 1) Pray that God would give you the courage to ask that person to meet for a cup of coffee or lunch or whatever; 2) Ask that person to meet you for a cup of coffee or lunch or whatever; and 3) Tell that person, when you meet with them, that you are nervous but want to be obedient to your faith and ask them if they have ever considered the claims of Christ.
I'll admit, there is a lot that happens between the second and third step. Trust that God will guide you if you are willing. Remember that witnessing is not about you. It's about the Holy Spirit living in you to guide you in what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. Just pray before you meet with that person.
Remember to think of the sin condition of your friend, co-worker, neighbor, or classmate is akin to them having cancer. They may not know it, but they are going to die. If you helped them to see that they have cancer but you know who has the cure, then your motivation will be pure and urgent.
Look at the fields. You have a sphere of influence that God has given you. Use it to lead others into the loving arms of Christ!
Randy
On Sunday, we distributed stalks of wheat to everyone. The wheat is representative of the harvest of believers. Jesus said to His disciples, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest?' I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest."
The Christmas season is the perfect time of year to have spirtiual conversations with those who do not yet follow Jesus. Please take some time, after reading this blog, to jot down the names of 3 people who you know are NOT saved. If you can't think of three people who are not saved, take some steps to meet some new people!
Once you have those three names, do the following: 1) Pray that God would give you the courage to ask that person to meet for a cup of coffee or lunch or whatever; 2) Ask that person to meet you for a cup of coffee or lunch or whatever; and 3) Tell that person, when you meet with them, that you are nervous but want to be obedient to your faith and ask them if they have ever considered the claims of Christ.
I'll admit, there is a lot that happens between the second and third step. Trust that God will guide you if you are willing. Remember that witnessing is not about you. It's about the Holy Spirit living in you to guide you in what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. Just pray before you meet with that person.
Remember to think of the sin condition of your friend, co-worker, neighbor, or classmate is akin to them having cancer. They may not know it, but they are going to die. If you helped them to see that they have cancer but you know who has the cure, then your motivation will be pure and urgent.
Look at the fields. You have a sphere of influence that God has given you. Use it to lead others into the loving arms of Christ!
Randy
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Big Questions...Answered!
One question that I did not feel comfortable answering from the pulpit is this one...Is masturbation a sin? Well, it took me a little while to find ANY Scripture that speaks to this taboo topic, but I did!
In Lev. 15:16-18, we read, "When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body in water, and he will be unclean till evening." The passage goes on to say, "When a man lies with a woman and there is an emission of semen, both must bathe with water, and they will be unclean till evening."
The first instance seems to imply the man is alone, especially compared to the second instance, where the passage spells out his being with a woman. This could infer that masturbation is the method the man uses. As far as I have read on this topic, there seems to be no physical health consequences to the person who masturbates; in fact, masturbation can be seen as a natural way for a person to be relieved of pent up sexual energy. Furthermore, there is no prohibition mentioned in this passage, and in fact, the method of cleansing is the same as that prescribed for heterosexual union.
The other side of this discussion, however, cannot be ignored. I must point out that lust and impure thoughts are sins according to Scripture. So, when masturbation includes lustful or impure thoughts, then it is a sin. So, now the obvious question: When does masturbation happen sans lusting? Well, lest you repudiate the OT Levitical Law as outdated and obsolete, we must remember that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not abolish it. Therefore, my mind goes to a possible reconciliation of the Yes/No answer of the question.
Could it be that perhaps God created a way for unmarried men and women to release the natural sexual energy that builds in their hormonal impulses to keep them from having sex outside of marriage? Masturbation does not necessarily have to include lustful thinking or fantasy. As we get older and are exposed to ungodly perceptions of sex, this may become more of an issue.
One final element of this question must be addressed. Obsession with masturbation with or without lustful thoughts is a sin. That is to say, masturbation, if at least not expressly prohibited in Scripture, can become a god to the person and a snare used by the devil. Therefore, keep yourself from any and all pornographic materials, no matter the medium.
I hope this helps you better understand this topic. As always, I encourage you to conduct your own self-study on this or any other topic. Be like the Bereans, who searched the Scriptures diligently to learn the Truth!
Randy
In Lev. 15:16-18, we read, "When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body in water, and he will be unclean till evening." The passage goes on to say, "When a man lies with a woman and there is an emission of semen, both must bathe with water, and they will be unclean till evening."
The first instance seems to imply the man is alone, especially compared to the second instance, where the passage spells out his being with a woman. This could infer that masturbation is the method the man uses. As far as I have read on this topic, there seems to be no physical health consequences to the person who masturbates; in fact, masturbation can be seen as a natural way for a person to be relieved of pent up sexual energy. Furthermore, there is no prohibition mentioned in this passage, and in fact, the method of cleansing is the same as that prescribed for heterosexual union.
The other side of this discussion, however, cannot be ignored. I must point out that lust and impure thoughts are sins according to Scripture. So, when masturbation includes lustful or impure thoughts, then it is a sin. So, now the obvious question: When does masturbation happen sans lusting? Well, lest you repudiate the OT Levitical Law as outdated and obsolete, we must remember that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not abolish it. Therefore, my mind goes to a possible reconciliation of the Yes/No answer of the question.
Could it be that perhaps God created a way for unmarried men and women to release the natural sexual energy that builds in their hormonal impulses to keep them from having sex outside of marriage? Masturbation does not necessarily have to include lustful thinking or fantasy. As we get older and are exposed to ungodly perceptions of sex, this may become more of an issue.
One final element of this question must be addressed. Obsession with masturbation with or without lustful thoughts is a sin. That is to say, masturbation, if at least not expressly prohibited in Scripture, can become a god to the person and a snare used by the devil. Therefore, keep yourself from any and all pornographic materials, no matter the medium.
I hope this helps you better understand this topic. As always, I encourage you to conduct your own self-study on this or any other topic. Be like the Bereans, who searched the Scriptures diligently to learn the Truth!
Randy
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Master in a Manger
This Advent Season, our church will be taking a very unique approach to the First Coming of Jesus Christ. God came into this world as a baby on the straw in a manger, but His purposed destination would become pierced hands and feet with Roman spikes on a cruel, wooden cross.
As we peer into the life of the most influential man ever to be born on this earth, we learn that His hands would touch the leper's wound, His eyes would weep for the consequences of sin, His mouth would proclaim eternal Truth, His feet would walk the dusty road toward Calvary, and His heart would break under the weight of the world's sin as He hung on the cross.
Jesus never intended to stay in the manger, to stay in safety, to stay in obscurity. His mission was established at the foundation of the world, when God the Father chose to create man in His image. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, would become the atonining sacrifice that would satisfy God's wrath for the sin of mankind. Jesus was born into this world to do for man what man could not do for himself - to be reconciled to God.
This is the Good News of all creation. At its core, Christmas is not about gifts, or lights, or cards, or feasts, or snow, or even family. It's about the greatest expression of love - the giving of a sinless life for all other lives. Jesus came into this world for one reason - to die and then to be raised, thereby putting death to death for all who believe on Him!
Join us this Sunday as we kick off the Advent season!
Pastor Randy
As we peer into the life of the most influential man ever to be born on this earth, we learn that His hands would touch the leper's wound, His eyes would weep for the consequences of sin, His mouth would proclaim eternal Truth, His feet would walk the dusty road toward Calvary, and His heart would break under the weight of the world's sin as He hung on the cross.
Jesus never intended to stay in the manger, to stay in safety, to stay in obscurity. His mission was established at the foundation of the world, when God the Father chose to create man in His image. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, would become the atonining sacrifice that would satisfy God's wrath for the sin of mankind. Jesus was born into this world to do for man what man could not do for himself - to be reconciled to God.
This is the Good News of all creation. At its core, Christmas is not about gifts, or lights, or cards, or feasts, or snow, or even family. It's about the greatest expression of love - the giving of a sinless life for all other lives. Jesus came into this world for one reason - to die and then to be raised, thereby putting death to death for all who believe on Him!
Join us this Sunday as we kick off the Advent season!
Pastor Randy
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Money Money Money
Donald Trump's hit TV show, "The Apprentice" kicks off every week with the song, "Money Money Money...Muh-ney!"
Well, the Bible has over 2,300 references to it. So this Sunday we will delve one more time into this all-important and all-provacative topic of Money. This week we will learn what it means to be a cheerful giver. That is not always easy.
But if you ever did NOT want to miss a worship service, this is the Sunday to NOT miss. Why? Well, as they do in the TV medium so well, I am going to have to put you off a bit and let you tune in to find out! Let me just say that you DON'T WANT TO MISS SERVICE THIS SUNDAY!
On another note, please don't think I have forgotten the remaining BIG Questions. The topics include: Satan and masturbation, to name a few. Taboo topics to be sure, but do know that I will address them in this format.
Satan - The question was, "How was Satan able to sin while he was in heaven? My answer is:
Satan was created by God as a free creature, just like Adam and Eve.
Satan became prideful (Isa. 14:14 and Ezek. 28:14-15)
Adam and Eve were in Eden; it appears from Ezekiel that Satan was in Eden as well, when sin might have first occurred.
We don't know when Satan fell, but Jesus saw it. He says in Luke that He "saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." (Luke 10:18)
Next blog, I will answer the question, "Is masturbation a sin?"
See you Sunday! Don't miss it, for it is more blessed to give than to receive!
Pastor Randy
Well, the Bible has over 2,300 references to it. So this Sunday we will delve one more time into this all-important and all-provacative topic of Money. This week we will learn what it means to be a cheerful giver. That is not always easy.
But if you ever did NOT want to miss a worship service, this is the Sunday to NOT miss. Why? Well, as they do in the TV medium so well, I am going to have to put you off a bit and let you tune in to find out! Let me just say that you DON'T WANT TO MISS SERVICE THIS SUNDAY!
On another note, please don't think I have forgotten the remaining BIG Questions. The topics include: Satan and masturbation, to name a few. Taboo topics to be sure, but do know that I will address them in this format.
Satan - The question was, "How was Satan able to sin while he was in heaven? My answer is:
Satan was created by God as a free creature, just like Adam and Eve.
Satan became prideful (Isa. 14:14 and Ezek. 28:14-15)
Adam and Eve were in Eden; it appears from Ezekiel that Satan was in Eden as well, when sin might have first occurred.
We don't know when Satan fell, but Jesus saw it. He says in Luke that He "saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." (Luke 10:18)
Next blog, I will answer the question, "Is masturbation a sin?"
See you Sunday! Don't miss it, for it is more blessed to give than to receive!
Pastor Randy
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Money Matters!
According to the pundits on TV, the election results on Tuesday reflected the collective frustration of the American public regarding our seemingly never-ending economic woes. Whether you have lost your job, foreclosed on your home, had to dicker with collection agents, or just simply had to tighten the belt on discretionary spending, the current economic situation in America has most probably affected you.
Giving in churches has declined by an average 16% in the last year. Many experts agree that the average church member considers the tithe as a discretionary expense on their budgets. If it comes down to paying the electric bill or giving money to the church, the electric bill normally wins out. Oftentimes, church members give to the church a portion of what is left over at the end of each month. Unfortunately, there are many months when there is actually a shortage of money when stacked up against the bills that are owed.
How did America get into such a mess? The politicians, for obvious reasons related to their own job security, will pander to the American public about how they intend to create jobs, crack down on Wall Street, and rein in the lending institutions. That sounds good in theory, but who are they kidding? The government doesn't create jobs - business does. The government can't control Wall Street - investors do. The government can't rein in lenders - consumers do. While it is true that goverment can set policy to facilitate such endeavors, the real culprits in the American economic meltdown are...well, you and me.
The Bible is not silent when it comes to financial stewardship. Over the next three weeks (or should it be twelve weeks?), we will study the time-tested truth of Scripture on the all-important topic of MONEY. Money does matter, and I am diligently preparing for what promises to be a practical application of God's Truth about Money and how you can set a course for you and your family to take control of your financial future!
See you Sunday!
Pastor Randy
Giving in churches has declined by an average 16% in the last year. Many experts agree that the average church member considers the tithe as a discretionary expense on their budgets. If it comes down to paying the electric bill or giving money to the church, the electric bill normally wins out. Oftentimes, church members give to the church a portion of what is left over at the end of each month. Unfortunately, there are many months when there is actually a shortage of money when stacked up against the bills that are owed.
How did America get into such a mess? The politicians, for obvious reasons related to their own job security, will pander to the American public about how they intend to create jobs, crack down on Wall Street, and rein in the lending institutions. That sounds good in theory, but who are they kidding? The government doesn't create jobs - business does. The government can't control Wall Street - investors do. The government can't rein in lenders - consumers do. While it is true that goverment can set policy to facilitate such endeavors, the real culprits in the American economic meltdown are...well, you and me.
The Bible is not silent when it comes to financial stewardship. Over the next three weeks (or should it be twelve weeks?), we will study the time-tested truth of Scripture on the all-important topic of MONEY. Money does matter, and I am diligently preparing for what promises to be a practical application of God's Truth about Money and how you can set a course for you and your family to take control of your financial future!
See you Sunday!
Pastor Randy
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
What is YOUR Big Question?
This Sunday will be very unique at Carolina Christian Church...YOU don't want to miss it!
We will be giving you the chance to text in your Big Question to our church phone and then the team in our sound booth will put the question on the screen for me to answer. We already have a lot of questions, but we will be taking more this week and even during the message. I for one am excited, as I believe this is exactly how Jesus and the apostle Paul dealt with the questions of their day (whether they be the Pharisees or the Sadducees, the gnostics or the judaizers).
When it's all said and done, we will be asking God's question for us: What is keeping YOU from being the FULLY DEVOTED follower of Jesus Christ that He has called you to be?
At the end of the service, we will have an awesome way to tangibly respond to God's question! Again, you don't want to miss this opportunity to worship God if you want to really understand how to grasp the full life promised by the author and perfecter of our faith - Jesus Christ!
Looking forward to seeing ALL of YOU this Sunday!
Pastor Randy
We will be giving you the chance to text in your Big Question to our church phone and then the team in our sound booth will put the question on the screen for me to answer. We already have a lot of questions, but we will be taking more this week and even during the message. I for one am excited, as I believe this is exactly how Jesus and the apostle Paul dealt with the questions of their day (whether they be the Pharisees or the Sadducees, the gnostics or the judaizers).
When it's all said and done, we will be asking God's question for us: What is keeping YOU from being the FULLY DEVOTED follower of Jesus Christ that He has called you to be?
At the end of the service, we will have an awesome way to tangibly respond to God's question! Again, you don't want to miss this opportunity to worship God if you want to really understand how to grasp the full life promised by the author and perfecter of our faith - Jesus Christ!
Looking forward to seeing ALL of YOU this Sunday!
Pastor Randy
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
What will heaven be like?
One of the most misunderstood doctrines of Scritpure is that of heaven. So many misconceptions prevail as to what heaven will be like - everything from humans being transformed into some angelic being, given a harp and sitting on some cloud (maybe cloud 9?) and singing "Hallelujah" forever and ever and ever to meeting St. Peter at the Pearly Gates and once let in, experiencing an immediate floating, blissful existence.
Sometimes I laugh at these ideas, because there is absolutely no biblical support for any of it. Not only do we make Peter so important on earth, but somehow we make him the gatekeeper to heaven too! In fact, if we are not careful, we might even talk ourselves into not looking forward to heaven, since we can't get past the thought of having to sing constantly 24 hours a day for all eternity.
Fortunately, the Bible has a lot to say about heaven - and it's ALL GOOD! There is really no way a person living in this fallen world will fully grasp the awesome experience of heaven until we have been there. Without saying too much, just know that this life on earth is as close to hell as any Christ-follower will ever come and as close to heaven as any non-believer will ever come.
If we have a better understanding of what heaven is like, we will be all the more fueled by the desire to see everyone we know headed that way. The ones who have gone before us are waiting for us, cheering us on, and awaiting the culmination of history with the Second Coming of Christ, when He will once and for all establish His kingdom on new earth, ushering in the eternal heaven where God and man dwell together forever!
I can't wait for that Day!
See you Sunday!
Randy
Sometimes I laugh at these ideas, because there is absolutely no biblical support for any of it. Not only do we make Peter so important on earth, but somehow we make him the gatekeeper to heaven too! In fact, if we are not careful, we might even talk ourselves into not looking forward to heaven, since we can't get past the thought of having to sing constantly 24 hours a day for all eternity.
Fortunately, the Bible has a lot to say about heaven - and it's ALL GOOD! There is really no way a person living in this fallen world will fully grasp the awesome experience of heaven until we have been there. Without saying too much, just know that this life on earth is as close to hell as any Christ-follower will ever come and as close to heaven as any non-believer will ever come.
If we have a better understanding of what heaven is like, we will be all the more fueled by the desire to see everyone we know headed that way. The ones who have gone before us are waiting for us, cheering us on, and awaiting the culmination of history with the Second Coming of Christ, when He will once and for all establish His kingdom on new earth, ushering in the eternal heaven where God and man dwell together forever!
I can't wait for that Day!
See you Sunday!
Randy
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Does Hell Exist?
It sure would be nice to hear the answer "No" to that question. Sadly, the Bible is too clear that a place called "hell" does exist. Furthermore, the Bible graphically portrays hell as separation from God, outer darkness, the place where the worm does not die, a lake of fire and brimstone that is not quenched, and a place of eternal torment and pain. There is no room to dismiss any of these descriptions for hell.
There is also no biblical support for the idea of annihiliation, the immediate or eventual ceasing to exist. This concept flies in the face of the doctrine of justice and judgment so prevalently defined and explained in the Bible.
Even as I type this, I am in anguish over the permanance of people's decisions made in this life. Paul agonized over his people as well: "I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race, the people of Israel." If Christians took more time to contemplate the reality of the fires of hell, our fire for evangelism (telling the Good News to the world) would be both critical and urgent.
We live in a world that would prefer to either put hell away from our thinking altogether or else refuse to believe that an "all-loving" God would condemn any "good" person to an eternity of such unyielding torment. To do either of these is foolishness and speaks to the fact that our world has become so accustomed to man's wickedness that we have lost all sense of God's holiness and justice.
Hell is a topic that no preacher wants to preach but a topic that must be preached in order for revival to happen...
See you this Sunday!
Pastor Randy
There is also no biblical support for the idea of annihiliation, the immediate or eventual ceasing to exist. This concept flies in the face of the doctrine of justice and judgment so prevalently defined and explained in the Bible.
Even as I type this, I am in anguish over the permanance of people's decisions made in this life. Paul agonized over his people as well: "I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race, the people of Israel." If Christians took more time to contemplate the reality of the fires of hell, our fire for evangelism (telling the Good News to the world) would be both critical and urgent.
We live in a world that would prefer to either put hell away from our thinking altogether or else refuse to believe that an "all-loving" God would condemn any "good" person to an eternity of such unyielding torment. To do either of these is foolishness and speaks to the fact that our world has become so accustomed to man's wickedness that we have lost all sense of God's holiness and justice.
Hell is a topic that no preacher wants to preach but a topic that must be preached in order for revival to happen...
See you this Sunday!
Pastor Randy
Thursday, October 7, 2010
What Happens When You Die?
Near death experiences reported over the last few decades have created a fascination with the afterlife. Movies like "Ghost" and "The Flatliners" have spurred the discussion and debate about the destiny of those who die and what they experience once they cross over the threshold from life to death to life again.
Many of the near-death experiences reported include a "bright light" and "floating feeling." Not surprisingly, far fewer reports depict events many would associate with hell and separation from God. Two alternative versions of life after death include reincarnation and "soul sleep," which says that the spirit (or soul) sleeps until the final judgment occurs. This teaching is held by Jehovah's Witnesses and Seventh Day Adventists.
What does the Bible teach? The Bible says that there are two destinies only: heaven or hell. The Bible says that there will be an immediate separation of body and spirit (Eccl. 12:7). The Bible says that we will immediately go to heaven or hell when we die (to be away from the body is to be present with the Lord - 2 Cor. 5:8). The Bible says that we will be conscious in that intermediate state prior to the resurrection bodies (Luke 16:19-31). The Bible says that at the last day, our bodies will be resurrected and be reunited to our spirits (1 Cor. 15:51-58). Finally, the Bible says that the only way to heaven is through faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the only Savior from sin (John 14:6).
This Sunday, we will delve even more deeply into the topic of death and the afterlife!
See you then!
Pastor Randy
Many of the near-death experiences reported include a "bright light" and "floating feeling." Not surprisingly, far fewer reports depict events many would associate with hell and separation from God. Two alternative versions of life after death include reincarnation and "soul sleep," which says that the spirit (or soul) sleeps until the final judgment occurs. This teaching is held by Jehovah's Witnesses and Seventh Day Adventists.
What does the Bible teach? The Bible says that there are two destinies only: heaven or hell. The Bible says that there will be an immediate separation of body and spirit (Eccl. 12:7). The Bible says that we will immediately go to heaven or hell when we die (to be away from the body is to be present with the Lord - 2 Cor. 5:8). The Bible says that we will be conscious in that intermediate state prior to the resurrection bodies (Luke 16:19-31). The Bible says that at the last day, our bodies will be resurrected and be reunited to our spirits (1 Cor. 15:51-58). Finally, the Bible says that the only way to heaven is through faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the only Savior from sin (John 14:6).
This Sunday, we will delve even more deeply into the topic of death and the afterlife!
See you then!
Pastor Randy
Thursday, September 30, 2010
What Happens to Those Who Never Hear the Gospel?
What does happen to those who never heard the Gospel? If Jesus is the only way to heaven, and someone has never heard about Jesus, how can they go to heaven when they die? If they don't go to heaven, then the only other alternative is hell? Is it fair to determine someone's eternity if they never had the chance to choose Jesus?
These are great questions. A few clarifying points are in order.
1. No one deserves to go to heaven. The prevalent opinion of today's culture is that heaven is the default destination for all people. Hell is only reserved for the really bad people. But that is not biblical. The Bible clearly states that no one is good. The Bible also clearly states that few will go to heaven and that many will go to hell.
2. God's fairness cannot be judged based on man's sense of fairness. We tend to be egocentric and we tend to put God in a box. Neither of these tendencies is biblical. In fact, God's way are not our ways. God's thoughts are not our thoughts. His ways are higher than our ways and beyond our full comprehension.
3. God is knowable. He has given everyone the ability to know Him because he has shown Himself to them. Every generation and every culture has sought after God and attempted to learn about Him. The one, true, invisible God has made Himself visible to all of us, if we will only seek after Him.
The person who wants to know God can know Him. "'You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the Lord." (Jeremiah 29:13-14)
We will delve more deeply into this topic this Sunday. See you then!
Randy
These are great questions. A few clarifying points are in order.
1. No one deserves to go to heaven. The prevalent opinion of today's culture is that heaven is the default destination for all people. Hell is only reserved for the really bad people. But that is not biblical. The Bible clearly states that no one is good. The Bible also clearly states that few will go to heaven and that many will go to hell.
2. God's fairness cannot be judged based on man's sense of fairness. We tend to be egocentric and we tend to put God in a box. Neither of these tendencies is biblical. In fact, God's way are not our ways. God's thoughts are not our thoughts. His ways are higher than our ways and beyond our full comprehension.
3. God is knowable. He has given everyone the ability to know Him because he has shown Himself to them. Every generation and every culture has sought after God and attempted to learn about Him. The one, true, invisible God has made Himself visible to all of us, if we will only seek after Him.
The person who wants to know God can know Him. "'You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the Lord." (Jeremiah 29:13-14)
We will delve more deeply into this topic this Sunday. See you then!
Randy
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Why do bad things happen to good people?
One of the most important questions for mankind to wrestle with is, "Why do bad things happen to good people?"
In fact, it is one of those questions that non-Christians pose in their search for meaning and purpose in life. Does the Bible answer that question? Yes it does, in various and sundry ways!
Perhaps the biblical character that comes first to mind when asking this question is Job. He is described as blameless, upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. If ever there were a good man, Job is it! And so, when we read in the pages of Job 1-2 all that happened to Job, we cry out, "Why did all this bad happen to such a good man?"
Forty chapters later, we learn two things. The first is that God is sovereign and His purposes are beyond our understanding. The second is that man is sinful from birth and that good is a very relative term that we throw around too quickly, thus rendering the premise of the question as untrue.
So, is anyone good? The sobering answer is "No." Romans 3:12 declares, "There is no one who does good, not even one." Mankind has always had a difficult time admitting or acknowledging this truth. So, if the premise is flawed, do we still have room to ask such a question?
The answer is "Yes." Come Sunday morning as we delve into purposes of God in allowing bad things to happen to reasonably good people!
Randy
In fact, it is one of those questions that non-Christians pose in their search for meaning and purpose in life. Does the Bible answer that question? Yes it does, in various and sundry ways!
Perhaps the biblical character that comes first to mind when asking this question is Job. He is described as blameless, upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. If ever there were a good man, Job is it! And so, when we read in the pages of Job 1-2 all that happened to Job, we cry out, "Why did all this bad happen to such a good man?"
Forty chapters later, we learn two things. The first is that God is sovereign and His purposes are beyond our understanding. The second is that man is sinful from birth and that good is a very relative term that we throw around too quickly, thus rendering the premise of the question as untrue.
So, is anyone good? The sobering answer is "No." Romans 3:12 declares, "There is no one who does good, not even one." Mankind has always had a difficult time admitting or acknowledging this truth. So, if the premise is flawed, do we still have room to ask such a question?
The answer is "Yes." Come Sunday morning as we delve into purposes of God in allowing bad things to happen to reasonably good people!
Randy
Monday, September 13, 2010
Who is Satan?
The Hebrew word for Satan means "adversary." In the Christian faith, he is real and he is opposed to God and all good. Jesus called him "the father of lies." He epitomizes evil and he desires to destroy all who have or will place their faith in Jesus Christ.
The two challenges that Christians face with regard to Satan are to treat him too lightly or to give him too much credit. A delicate balance between the two is prudent.
Biblically-speaking, Satan (or the devil) is referred to numerous times, either by name or by description, or both. He is the serpent in Genesis and the dragon in Revelation. He is Lucifer in Isaiah and the guardian cherub in Ezekiel. He is the accuser in Zechariah and the tempter in Matthew. He tortured Job and tormented Paul.
Sadly, many believe that Satan is caged up in hell and not active in the world today. They cite Jude 9, where it says that "the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home - these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judment on the great Day."
But we all know that you cannot build a doctrine on one verse. The whole counsel of Scripture must work together to put forth truth. First of all, the verse does not specifically mention Satan. Second, the context would indicate that this is a part of the fallen angels and not all of them, since Sodom and Gomorrah are used as an example of two cities among many that suffer immediate judgment. Third, there are numerous other passages that depict Satan as free and allowed to move throughout the world (Job 1-2; Zech. 3; Matt. 4; 2 Cor. 11; 1 Pet. 5; Rev. 12). Finally, he is described by Christ and Paul as the "prince of this world" (John 12:31) and the ruler of the kingdom of the air." (Eph. 2:2)
We will learn more this Sunday as we answer question #6, "Who is Satan?"
Until then, "resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Pastor Randy
The two challenges that Christians face with regard to Satan are to treat him too lightly or to give him too much credit. A delicate balance between the two is prudent.
Biblically-speaking, Satan (or the devil) is referred to numerous times, either by name or by description, or both. He is the serpent in Genesis and the dragon in Revelation. He is Lucifer in Isaiah and the guardian cherub in Ezekiel. He is the accuser in Zechariah and the tempter in Matthew. He tortured Job and tormented Paul.
Sadly, many believe that Satan is caged up in hell and not active in the world today. They cite Jude 9, where it says that "the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home - these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judment on the great Day."
But we all know that you cannot build a doctrine on one verse. The whole counsel of Scripture must work together to put forth truth. First of all, the verse does not specifically mention Satan. Second, the context would indicate that this is a part of the fallen angels and not all of them, since Sodom and Gomorrah are used as an example of two cities among many that suffer immediate judgment. Third, there are numerous other passages that depict Satan as free and allowed to move throughout the world (Job 1-2; Zech. 3; Matt. 4; 2 Cor. 11; 1 Pet. 5; Rev. 12). Finally, he is described by Christ and Paul as the "prince of this world" (John 12:31) and the ruler of the kingdom of the air." (Eph. 2:2)
We will learn more this Sunday as we answer question #6, "Who is Satan?"
Until then, "resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Pastor Randy
Friday, September 3, 2010
How Do I Know I am Saved?
How do I know I am saved? What a provocative question!
The truth is that most people who have at least professed to be Christian have asked that question at least once or twice in their life. For the Muslim, such a question cannot be answered. For the Christian, however, there is a definite set of proofs that one can apply to get at the answer very quickly.
As we evaluate the answer to that question and the proofs offered us in Scripture, we must be careful not to err on either extreme. For example, it is indeed a sobering thought that Jesus said, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matt. 7:13-14)
It is equally sobering to hear Jesus declare a few verses later, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." (Matt. 7:21)
On the other hand, it is quite disconcerting that the American culture today places a great deal of emphasis on being "good." Most would say, "I am a good person, and since God is good, He will not send me to hell." This is a dangerous statement to make, as it presumes something about the nature of man that is NOT what God's Word teaches. The Bible says that "No one does good, not even one." (Rom. 3:12)
If we say we are good, we are lying. And lying is not good. This is a hard truth, but it is nevertheless the Truth. Many of us can't handle the Truth, and so we continue on in life not wanting to face that Truth. It's like a tough conversation that we know we have to have with someone, but we keep putting it off, wishing the need to have that conversation would somehow just go away.
That, too, is dangerous, because none of us knows when our last day on this earth will be. That is a hard truth as well. We like to think we are good and that we are in control. Neither of these presumptions is correct. God alone is sovereign and God alone is good. That means that you and I must come to grips with that Truth and submit to His pathway toward reconciliation with Him. That path to reconciliation begins and ends with Jesus. What have you done and what are you doing with Jesus?
Is He your Savior? If so, rejoice in the fact that you are saved. Is He your Lord? If so, rejoice that you will bear much fruit in this life, preparing yourself for a glorious life in heaven with Him.
See you Sunday!
Randy
The truth is that most people who have at least professed to be Christian have asked that question at least once or twice in their life. For the Muslim, such a question cannot be answered. For the Christian, however, there is a definite set of proofs that one can apply to get at the answer very quickly.
As we evaluate the answer to that question and the proofs offered us in Scripture, we must be careful not to err on either extreme. For example, it is indeed a sobering thought that Jesus said, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matt. 7:13-14)
It is equally sobering to hear Jesus declare a few verses later, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." (Matt. 7:21)
On the other hand, it is quite disconcerting that the American culture today places a great deal of emphasis on being "good." Most would say, "I am a good person, and since God is good, He will not send me to hell." This is a dangerous statement to make, as it presumes something about the nature of man that is NOT what God's Word teaches. The Bible says that "No one does good, not even one." (Rom. 3:12)
If we say we are good, we are lying. And lying is not good. This is a hard truth, but it is nevertheless the Truth. Many of us can't handle the Truth, and so we continue on in life not wanting to face that Truth. It's like a tough conversation that we know we have to have with someone, but we keep putting it off, wishing the need to have that conversation would somehow just go away.
That, too, is dangerous, because none of us knows when our last day on this earth will be. That is a hard truth as well. We like to think we are good and that we are in control. Neither of these presumptions is correct. God alone is sovereign and God alone is good. That means that you and I must come to grips with that Truth and submit to His pathway toward reconciliation with Him. That path to reconciliation begins and ends with Jesus. What have you done and what are you doing with Jesus?
Is He your Savior? If so, rejoice in the fact that you are saved. Is He your Lord? If so, rejoice that you will bear much fruit in this life, preparing yourself for a glorious life in heaven with Him.
See you Sunday!
Randy
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
What's Your Big Question?
Have you ever said, "When I get to heaven, I am going to ask God..."?
Well, you don't have to wait until you get to heaven to ask the question. And you don't have to wait for God's answer, because all of God's answers are found in His Word.
I have come to the conclusion that we question, debate, express opinion, hypothesize and otherwise discuss all kinds of topics without ever consulting God's Word. There really is a simple answer for why we do that. Most of us have not spent enough time doing a deep-dive search of the Scriptures.
One of the keys to meaningful and fulfilling Bible Study is to latch on to a particular topic that gets your juices flowing. For example,
- what is a woman's role in the church?
- what is hell really like?
- is drinking alcoholic beverages a sin?
- how are we saved by grace yet judged by works?
- what is the unpardonable sin?
- how do we reconcile election with free will?
- is getting a tattoo a violation of God's Law?
All of these topics are hot buttons for many people. If you take a topic and use many Bible Study tools to research the topic, the Word of God will come to life for you. For example, pick your hot topic, use a concordance to search for key words, a Bible Dictionary to search for key topics/terms, and cross-references that connect similar verses/phrases throughout the Bible.
Pretty soon, you will be getting a clearer picture of God's real purposes and plan. I can promise you, too, that a lot of the conventions and traditions you have come to take as "gospel" will be shattered once you seek and hear the heart of God through His Word. I am always fascinated about the rebukes of Jesus against the religious establishment (the Pharisees, Sadducees, etc.).
After some time, perhaps even years, you will have a very healthy view of the world, because it will be God's worldview. How refreshing it is to see the world as God sees it. And get this! Every time I think the picture of God's plan for the world is crystal clear, if I keep searching and seeking Him, the picture gets even clearer! Amazing!!
Join us this Sunday for a worship service that will rock your little Christian world!
Randy
Well, you don't have to wait until you get to heaven to ask the question. And you don't have to wait for God's answer, because all of God's answers are found in His Word.
I have come to the conclusion that we question, debate, express opinion, hypothesize and otherwise discuss all kinds of topics without ever consulting God's Word. There really is a simple answer for why we do that. Most of us have not spent enough time doing a deep-dive search of the Scriptures.
One of the keys to meaningful and fulfilling Bible Study is to latch on to a particular topic that gets your juices flowing. For example,
- what is a woman's role in the church?
- what is hell really like?
- is drinking alcoholic beverages a sin?
- how are we saved by grace yet judged by works?
- what is the unpardonable sin?
- how do we reconcile election with free will?
- is getting a tattoo a violation of God's Law?
All of these topics are hot buttons for many people. If you take a topic and use many Bible Study tools to research the topic, the Word of God will come to life for you. For example, pick your hot topic, use a concordance to search for key words, a Bible Dictionary to search for key topics/terms, and cross-references that connect similar verses/phrases throughout the Bible.
Pretty soon, you will be getting a clearer picture of God's real purposes and plan. I can promise you, too, that a lot of the conventions and traditions you have come to take as "gospel" will be shattered once you seek and hear the heart of God through His Word. I am always fascinated about the rebukes of Jesus against the religious establishment (the Pharisees, Sadducees, etc.).
After some time, perhaps even years, you will have a very healthy view of the world, because it will be God's worldview. How refreshing it is to see the world as God sees it. And get this! Every time I think the picture of God's plan for the world is crystal clear, if I keep searching and seeking Him, the picture gets even clearer! Amazing!!
Join us this Sunday for a worship service that will rock your little Christian world!
Randy
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Big Questions...Real Answers.
First, let me answer the poll question from last week, since there were a variety of answers. The question was: How many temples have existed in Israel's history? The answer is 3 - Solomon's temple, Zerubbabel's temple and Herod's temple.
Now, on to this next blog topic. Every person, at some time in his life, asks any number of questions about origins of life, God, man's relationship to the world around him and others, etc. Some of the questions include:
Does God Exist?
Is Jesus God?
Can I trust the Bible?
How do I know I am saved?
If God is good, why is there Evil in the world?
Who is Satan?
Why do Bad Things happen to Good People?
What happens to those who have never heard the Gospel?
What happens when I die?
Does Hell Exist?
What is Heaven Like?
These questions will be answered in my next sermon series. You don't want to miss it!
In addition, the final week of this series will give you the chance to ask your question during the worship service.
In the meantime, search the Scriptures yourself to learn the answers to these questions. The authority is found in God's Word!
I am so excited about this upcoming series. It starts August 15th! See you this Sunday!
Dish Out
Now, on to this next blog topic. Every person, at some time in his life, asks any number of questions about origins of life, God, man's relationship to the world around him and others, etc. Some of the questions include:
Does God Exist?
Is Jesus God?
Can I trust the Bible?
How do I know I am saved?
If God is good, why is there Evil in the world?
Who is Satan?
Why do Bad Things happen to Good People?
What happens to those who have never heard the Gospel?
What happens when I die?
Does Hell Exist?
What is Heaven Like?
These questions will be answered in my next sermon series. You don't want to miss it!
In addition, the final week of this series will give you the chance to ask your question during the worship service.
In the meantime, search the Scriptures yourself to learn the answers to these questions. The authority is found in God's Word!
I am so excited about this upcoming series. It starts August 15th! See you this Sunday!
Dish Out
Friday, July 9, 2010
Is the end near?
This weekend's message is going to be perhaps one of the more difficult to convey. Why? Because the topic is the answer to Daniel's question. What is Daniel's question?
WHAT IS GOD'S PLAN FOR THE JEWS AND ISRAEL?
In my lifetime, the one global conflict that has never been resolved is the Middle East Peace Talks between the Arab nations and Israel. We find in Genesis 16 these words:
11 The angel of the LORD also said to her:
"You are now with child
and you will have a son.
You shall name him Ishmael,
for the LORD has heard of your misery.
12 He will be a wild donkey of a man;
his hand will be against everyone
and everyone's hand against him,
and he will live in hostility
toward all his brothers.
This is a clear prophecy to the relationship between the descendants of Ishmael and Isaac. The Ishmaelites became the Arab peoples (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Yemen, Oman, and United Arab Emirates).
Isaac, the son of promise, gave birth to Jacob, later named Israel and is the father of the Jewish people.
This prophecy tells us that these two will live in hostility. In 1445 B.C. Moses would be carried by the Holy Spirit to write such an amazingly accurate prediction. Today, looking back, it is unbelievable how accurate this prophecy is.
What should our response be? ONE OF AWE for the ONE who sees the end from the beginning. I have no idea when the end will come, but I have come to trust in the ONE who does! How about you???
Come Sunday to learn of God's answer to Daniel! It just may answer the questions you have as well.
Dish Out
WHAT IS GOD'S PLAN FOR THE JEWS AND ISRAEL?
In my lifetime, the one global conflict that has never been resolved is the Middle East Peace Talks between the Arab nations and Israel. We find in Genesis 16 these words:
11 The angel of the LORD also said to her:
"You are now with child
and you will have a son.
You shall name him Ishmael,
for the LORD has heard of your misery.
12 He will be a wild donkey of a man;
his hand will be against everyone
and everyone's hand against him,
and he will live in hostility
toward all his brothers.
This is a clear prophecy to the relationship between the descendants of Ishmael and Isaac. The Ishmaelites became the Arab peoples (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Yemen, Oman, and United Arab Emirates).
Isaac, the son of promise, gave birth to Jacob, later named Israel and is the father of the Jewish people.
This prophecy tells us that these two will live in hostility. In 1445 B.C. Moses would be carried by the Holy Spirit to write such an amazingly accurate prediction. Today, looking back, it is unbelievable how accurate this prophecy is.
What should our response be? ONE OF AWE for the ONE who sees the end from the beginning. I have no idea when the end will come, but I have come to trust in the ONE who does! How about you???
Come Sunday to learn of God's answer to Daniel! It just may answer the questions you have as well.
Dish Out
Friday, June 25, 2010
Does Prayer Work?
Guess where two of my favorite prayers in the whole Bible are located...
Nope - no where in the New Testament. That narrows it down a smidge, huh?
How about the Old Testament?
Give up??
Okay. Nehemiah 2 and Daniel 9. They are the classic prayers of two of the more godly men in the Scriptures.
As we continue our study in Daniel, and we evaluate the larger theme of our current series entitiled "Culture Clash," we come (God's timing is impeccable!) to studying Daniel 9:1-19 on July 4th. Read that beautiful, repentant prayer and substitute America for Israel. I couldn't even begin to take credit for the orchestration of this particular passage occurring on Independence Day!
Daniel prayed, because it was a reflection of his relationship with God. We, too, must pray, not because it is our duty but because it is our prvilege and our way of relating to our Heavenly Father.
In response to Daniel's prayer, God revealed to him the future. The fact is that when we pray in earnest before our Lord, He shows us a little more of His divine purposes. Prayer opens up the portals of heaven and allows us a glimpse of God's grandeur, holiness, power and plans.
What a joy it is to study Daniel's prayer and know that the Lord is in control!
I can't wait to see all of you!
Randy
Nope - no where in the New Testament. That narrows it down a smidge, huh?
How about the Old Testament?
Give up??
Okay. Nehemiah 2 and Daniel 9. They are the classic prayers of two of the more godly men in the Scriptures.
As we continue our study in Daniel, and we evaluate the larger theme of our current series entitiled "Culture Clash," we come (God's timing is impeccable!) to studying Daniel 9:1-19 on July 4th. Read that beautiful, repentant prayer and substitute America for Israel. I couldn't even begin to take credit for the orchestration of this particular passage occurring on Independence Day!
Daniel prayed, because it was a reflection of his relationship with God. We, too, must pray, not because it is our duty but because it is our prvilege and our way of relating to our Heavenly Father.
In response to Daniel's prayer, God revealed to him the future. The fact is that when we pray in earnest before our Lord, He shows us a little more of His divine purposes. Prayer opens up the portals of heaven and allows us a glimpse of God's grandeur, holiness, power and plans.
What a joy it is to study Daniel's prayer and know that the Lord is in control!
I can't wait to see all of you!
Randy
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
The Power of God
In a world where so many question the very existence of God, not to mention the overwhelming evidence of mounting evil and tragedy, one is left to wonder: How can there be a God if so much evil exists?
Good question. It is the very question asked by every atheist and every agnostic on the planet. Clearly, there is a rationale to suggest that if God is good and God is sovereign, why would or could evil exist? Thought-provoking to say the least. But, as happens many times, we become too intelligent for our own good. We think higher of our own minute understanding of the universe in which we live than the One who stands transcendant of it.
The Bible says, "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" That is to say, if we can even conceive of an all-powerful, supernatural being that presides over the universes that exists, then He must exist. There is no explanation of the origin of this world or man or anything in it outside of some being that started it all..."ex nihilo...created from nothing!
I have explored this postulation. I have pressed against the assumption of some eternal, infinite God. I have tested and tried the claims of the Bible. I have come to one conclusion that is of infinite and eternal significance...That the Lord is God and there is no other...that He created the heavens and the earth and everything in them...that He is above all...and most amazingly, He created me and you in HIS image and desires to have a relationship with us.
That relationship begins with Christ...His eternal Son, the Second Person of the Trinity...the only acceptable sacrifice for the sin of man. There is no other way we can know God except to accept Jesus as the one and only Son of God, that He was crucified, buried and was raised on the third day, to the glory of God the Father.
Imagine a world without God...impossible.
Dish Out
Good question. It is the very question asked by every atheist and every agnostic on the planet. Clearly, there is a rationale to suggest that if God is good and God is sovereign, why would or could evil exist? Thought-provoking to say the least. But, as happens many times, we become too intelligent for our own good. We think higher of our own minute understanding of the universe in which we live than the One who stands transcendant of it.
The Bible says, "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" That is to say, if we can even conceive of an all-powerful, supernatural being that presides over the universes that exists, then He must exist. There is no explanation of the origin of this world or man or anything in it outside of some being that started it all..."ex nihilo...created from nothing!
I have explored this postulation. I have pressed against the assumption of some eternal, infinite God. I have tested and tried the claims of the Bible. I have come to one conclusion that is of infinite and eternal significance...That the Lord is God and there is no other...that He created the heavens and the earth and everything in them...that He is above all...and most amazingly, He created me and you in HIS image and desires to have a relationship with us.
That relationship begins with Christ...His eternal Son, the Second Person of the Trinity...the only acceptable sacrifice for the sin of man. There is no other way we can know God except to accept Jesus as the one and only Son of God, that He was crucified, buried and was raised on the third day, to the glory of God the Father.
Imagine a world without God...impossible.
Dish Out
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Are you Consistent?
There are two kinds of Christians - sprinters and long-distance runners.
Sprinters take off with a bang, run as hard as they can and before you know it, they run out of gas and take a break, sometimes for a long time.
Long-distance runners (marathoners) take off slow, get into stride at a steady pace, and keep going...and going...and going. At some point in the middle of the race, they catch the famous "runner's high."
Daniel was a long-distance runner. He demonstrated consistency in His walk with God. From the time he was a young Jewish exile in the court of the Babylonian Empire to the time he was an 86-year old consultant in the court of the Media-Persia Empire, Daniel lived consistently for God. One could say that he was predictably godly.
What about you? Are you consistent with your faith?
Are you consistent in your prayer life?
Are you consistent in your Bible Study?
Are you consistent in your worship?
Are you consistent in your witness?
Consistency comes with discipline and practice. Doing these disciplines of the faith even when you don't feel like doing them is the key. It's like going to the gym to work out. You and I can always make enough excuses not to go. The ones who don't go don't grow but the ones who do grow and develop into a stronger, healthier servant for God!
Be Consistent! Join us Sunday for a great lesson on Consistency!
Dish Out
Sprinters take off with a bang, run as hard as they can and before you know it, they run out of gas and take a break, sometimes for a long time.
Long-distance runners (marathoners) take off slow, get into stride at a steady pace, and keep going...and going...and going. At some point in the middle of the race, they catch the famous "runner's high."
Daniel was a long-distance runner. He demonstrated consistency in His walk with God. From the time he was a young Jewish exile in the court of the Babylonian Empire to the time he was an 86-year old consultant in the court of the Media-Persia Empire, Daniel lived consistently for God. One could say that he was predictably godly.
What about you? Are you consistent with your faith?
Are you consistent in your prayer life?
Are you consistent in your Bible Study?
Are you consistent in your worship?
Are you consistent in your witness?
Consistency comes with discipline and practice. Doing these disciplines of the faith even when you don't feel like doing them is the key. It's like going to the gym to work out. You and I can always make enough excuses not to go. The ones who don't go don't grow but the ones who do grow and develop into a stronger, healthier servant for God!
Be Consistent! Join us Sunday for a great lesson on Consistency!
Dish Out
Friday, May 14, 2010
Do you Show Concern for Others?
You know the phrase..."People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." Cheesy in some ways but profound in others.
Think for a moment. How often a day or week do you intentionally and proactively show concern for others?
In our study this Sunday in Daniel 4, we are going to learn a very valuable lesson...Daniel showed concern for a man who attacked his people and his hometown, who carried off his people as prisoners, and who robbed them of their right to worship their God. That man was King Nebuchadnezzar. Not only are we to show concern for those we love, but we are to show concern for our enemies as well. Sobering, I know.
This week, be proactive and look for opportunities to show concern for another whom you normally would not even give a second thought to talking to. It just may be the one thing you do that has eternal impact.
Randy
Think for a moment. How often a day or week do you intentionally and proactively show concern for others?
In our study this Sunday in Daniel 4, we are going to learn a very valuable lesson...Daniel showed concern for a man who attacked his people and his hometown, who carried off his people as prisoners, and who robbed them of their right to worship their God. That man was King Nebuchadnezzar. Not only are we to show concern for those we love, but we are to show concern for our enemies as well. Sobering, I know.
This week, be proactive and look for opportunities to show concern for another whom you normally would not even give a second thought to talking to. It just may be the one thing you do that has eternal impact.
Randy
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Courage
Do you have courage? Does your life embrace risk? What measure of faith would you say that you have?
Let's suppose someone came up to you and said, "If you don't renounce Jesus Christ as your Lord, I will torture your entire family." What would you do? Really.
Can you imagine being faced with such a choice? Daniel's three friends were faced with a decision much like that. They were to either bow down and worship a man-made image (a clear violation of the Second Commandment), or be thrown into a blazing furnace.
Their reply? "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." (Daniel 3:17-18)
I am convinced that most American Christians have not been put through the fire to make their faith real. God is not going to use mealy-mouthed christians who live in a bubble and don't take any risks for Him. God is only intent on using those who are FOR HIM! Christ said, "Whoever is not for me is against me." How true that is.
The world needs to see courage from those who claim the power of God in their lives. Don't be the cowardly Lion, who only sang about courage. Stand up and count yourself worthy of the calling of Almighty God to do great things for Him!
Randy
Let's suppose someone came up to you and said, "If you don't renounce Jesus Christ as your Lord, I will torture your entire family." What would you do? Really.
Can you imagine being faced with such a choice? Daniel's three friends were faced with a decision much like that. They were to either bow down and worship a man-made image (a clear violation of the Second Commandment), or be thrown into a blazing furnace.
Their reply? "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." (Daniel 3:17-18)
I am convinced that most American Christians have not been put through the fire to make their faith real. God is not going to use mealy-mouthed christians who live in a bubble and don't take any risks for Him. God is only intent on using those who are FOR HIM! Christ said, "Whoever is not for me is against me." How true that is.
The world needs to see courage from those who claim the power of God in their lives. Don't be the cowardly Lion, who only sang about courage. Stand up and count yourself worthy of the calling of Almighty God to do great things for Him!
Randy
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Confidence
What is confidence? Wikipedia defines it as "a state of being certain either that a hypothesis or prediction is correct or that a chosen course of action is the best or most effective."
This Sunday, we will learn the key to having confidence. Daniel demonstrated no confidence in man (Paul would later warn the Philippian church about placing confidence in the "flesh" - Phil. 3), but instead fully trusted God. After having stood by his convictions in Daniel 1, he then demonstrates confidence in the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe.
As God lays out the scope of human history and the changing of power by world empires, Daniel helps King Nebuchadnezzar to see that only God knows the future:
"27 Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come."
Notice the definition of confidence is "certainty that a prediction is correct." Daniel 2 is one of the most amazing predictions in Scripture, as it accurately predicts the future kingdoms in order throughout world history.
How should we respond to this amazing teaching in Scripture? By applying another Scripture verse to our daily living:
"But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him." (Jer. 17:7)
And another..."Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding..." (Prov. 3:5)
Dish Out
This Sunday, we will learn the key to having confidence. Daniel demonstrated no confidence in man (Paul would later warn the Philippian church about placing confidence in the "flesh" - Phil. 3), but instead fully trusted God. After having stood by his convictions in Daniel 1, he then demonstrates confidence in the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe.
As God lays out the scope of human history and the changing of power by world empires, Daniel helps King Nebuchadnezzar to see that only God knows the future:
"27 Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come."
Notice the definition of confidence is "certainty that a prediction is correct." Daniel 2 is one of the most amazing predictions in Scripture, as it accurately predicts the future kingdoms in order throughout world history.
How should we respond to this amazing teaching in Scripture? By applying another Scripture verse to our daily living:
"But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him." (Jer. 17:7)
And another..."Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding..." (Prov. 3:5)
Dish Out
Monday, April 5, 2010
Now What?
After all the celebration and full houses of worship on the annual Easter Sunday in the modern era, there seems to be a letdown, a return to the norm, a receding of the wave of attendance on the high watermark day of the Christian faith.
The weeks leading up to Easter are like a huge wave rolling onto shore, with great power and force. And when Easter Sunday hits, it's like the wave waters bursting onto the beach and climbing ever higher on the sand, creating a new high water line.
However, each successive week after that big wave of Easter, the waves of weekly worship stop short of that new high water mark. The sand not reached by the waters in the successive weeks soon dries out and is not moved and churned and moistened again for a long while. The grains of sand closest to the water's edge are the grains that are tossed and carried and salted and refined by the force and power of every wave that hits the shore.
It causes one to wonder...what kind of sand am I?
After Jesus Christ's resurrection...after the first ever Easter celebration, what do you suppose happened next? Three events are recorded for us in Scripture:
1. Jesus commissioned His followers (Matt. 28:16-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:44-49; John 20:21; Acts 1:8)
2. Jesus challenged His followers (John 20:24 - 21:25)
3. Jesus counseled His followers (Acts 1:3-5)
So, this Sunday (the Sunday after Easter), my prayer is that the wave rolls further up the beach than last week. My prayer is that the Word of God will commission you, challenge you and counsel you to a deeper faith in the One who came, who died, who was buried, and who was raised!
See you Sunday!
Pastor Randy
The weeks leading up to Easter are like a huge wave rolling onto shore, with great power and force. And when Easter Sunday hits, it's like the wave waters bursting onto the beach and climbing ever higher on the sand, creating a new high water line.
However, each successive week after that big wave of Easter, the waves of weekly worship stop short of that new high water mark. The sand not reached by the waters in the successive weeks soon dries out and is not moved and churned and moistened again for a long while. The grains of sand closest to the water's edge are the grains that are tossed and carried and salted and refined by the force and power of every wave that hits the shore.
It causes one to wonder...what kind of sand am I?
After Jesus Christ's resurrection...after the first ever Easter celebration, what do you suppose happened next? Three events are recorded for us in Scripture:
1. Jesus commissioned His followers (Matt. 28:16-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:44-49; John 20:21; Acts 1:8)
2. Jesus challenged His followers (John 20:24 - 21:25)
3. Jesus counseled His followers (Acts 1:3-5)
So, this Sunday (the Sunday after Easter), my prayer is that the wave rolls further up the beach than last week. My prayer is that the Word of God will commission you, challenge you and counsel you to a deeper faith in the One who came, who died, who was buried, and who was raised!
See you Sunday!
Pastor Randy
Friday, March 26, 2010
Did Jesus Die?
As this Sunday is Palm Sunday, we know that it was on a Sunday that Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey (to fulfill prophecy; see Zechariah 9:9). He was greeted as a king! According to John 12:12-15, the crowds laid palm branches on the road before Him.
He declared Himself to be the Messiah, the Promised One of God. He knew what was ahead of Him. For the next few days, He answered with great authority and power the challenges posed to Him by the religious leaders of the day. He ate the Passover Meal with His disciples Thursday night, fulfilling His role as the perfect Lamb of God. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He agonized over the impending weight of the sins of the world being laid upon Him. He was betrayed into the hands of men. He was questioned, insulted, beaten, spat upon, whipped, scourged, flogged, and made to carry His own death device to Calvary.
As Jesus hung in excruciating pain, suffocating more with every gasp, He uttered some of the most beautiful words of grace...
"Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing."
"I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise."
"Dear woman, here is your son."
When he had given up the Spirit ("No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded."), Jesus died. In fact, His death was so certain that when the Roman centurions, who were experts at execution, came by to break His legs, they did not (another fulfillment of prophecy - "not one of His bones will be broken.").
Jesus laid down His life for the world. This is the ultimate sacrifice.
Jesus took up His life in His resurrection from the dead. This is the ultimate victory!
See you this Palm Sunday to worship the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords."
Randy
He declared Himself to be the Messiah, the Promised One of God. He knew what was ahead of Him. For the next few days, He answered with great authority and power the challenges posed to Him by the religious leaders of the day. He ate the Passover Meal with His disciples Thursday night, fulfilling His role as the perfect Lamb of God. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He agonized over the impending weight of the sins of the world being laid upon Him. He was betrayed into the hands of men. He was questioned, insulted, beaten, spat upon, whipped, scourged, flogged, and made to carry His own death device to Calvary.
As Jesus hung in excruciating pain, suffocating more with every gasp, He uttered some of the most beautiful words of grace...
"Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing."
"I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise."
"Dear woman, here is your son."
When he had given up the Spirit ("No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded."), Jesus died. In fact, His death was so certain that when the Roman centurions, who were experts at execution, came by to break His legs, they did not (another fulfillment of prophecy - "not one of His bones will be broken.").
Jesus laid down His life for the world. This is the ultimate sacrifice.
Jesus took up His life in His resurrection from the dead. This is the ultimate victory!
See you this Palm Sunday to worship the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords."
Randy
Friday, March 12, 2010
Why Pray?
If God already knows what's going to happen, and if God is sovereign enough to control or allow what happens, isn't prayer just an exercise in futility?
Simply put, what is the real purpose of prayer? There are three reasons that come to mind...
First: Prayer acknowledges both the fallenness and the frailty of man. That is, we offer prayers because we are helpless and because we are powerless as it relates to the present and the future.
Second: Prayer demonstrates an active and real faith in God. A person who prays to God believes that God cares and that God will "work all things for the good of those who love Him."
Third: Prayer aligns the praying person's will with the perfect will of God. There is power in studying the prayers of Scripture, specifically those of Jesus. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus emphasizes "Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed:
"My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." (Matt. 26:39)
These two examples emphasize the importance of aligning our will with God's will. Interestingly, the Bible declares that "with God, all things are possible." Even Hezekiah learned that God's possibilities are always beyond our meager capability to understand His grandest purposes. (I will let you look that story up for further study!)
So, prayer matters. Prayer works. Prayer is imperative to the Christian life.
Pray more frequently. Pray more fervently. Pray more faithfully!
Dish Out
Simply put, what is the real purpose of prayer? There are three reasons that come to mind...
First: Prayer acknowledges both the fallenness and the frailty of man. That is, we offer prayers because we are helpless and because we are powerless as it relates to the present and the future.
Second: Prayer demonstrates an active and real faith in God. A person who prays to God believes that God cares and that God will "work all things for the good of those who love Him."
Third: Prayer aligns the praying person's will with the perfect will of God. There is power in studying the prayers of Scripture, specifically those of Jesus. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus emphasizes "Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed:
"My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." (Matt. 26:39)
These two examples emphasize the importance of aligning our will with God's will. Interestingly, the Bible declares that "with God, all things are possible." Even Hezekiah learned that God's possibilities are always beyond our meager capability to understand His grandest purposes. (I will let you look that story up for further study!)
So, prayer matters. Prayer works. Prayer is imperative to the Christian life.
Pray more frequently. Pray more fervently. Pray more faithfully!
Dish Out
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Are You Patient?
When is the last time you were impatient? Months ago? Weeks ago? Days ago? Hours ago? Minutes ago?
The classic quote comes to mind..."patience is a virtue." What does that mean?
Well, God has a lot to say about our being patient - first with Him; second with others.
First of all, we must understand that patience is one of God's attributes:
"The Lord, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin." (Ex. 34:6-7)
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)
As for us, God's Word says that the source of our patience is wisdom (Prov. 19:11). And that a man gains wisdom by "fearing the Lord." (Prov. 9:10)
Patience is also a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22)
God's Word also defines love as patient. (1 Cor. 13:4)
Therefore, we see that patience is developed only to the extent that we are in constant fellowship with God! We get impatient when we fail to see the world or circumstances or people through God's eyes!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Dish Out
The classic quote comes to mind..."patience is a virtue." What does that mean?
Well, God has a lot to say about our being patient - first with Him; second with others.
First of all, we must understand that patience is one of God's attributes:
"The Lord, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin." (Ex. 34:6-7)
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)
As for us, God's Word says that the source of our patience is wisdom (Prov. 19:11). And that a man gains wisdom by "fearing the Lord." (Prov. 9:10)
Patience is also a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22)
God's Word also defines love as patient. (1 Cor. 13:4)
Therefore, we see that patience is developed only to the extent that we are in constant fellowship with God! We get impatient when we fail to see the world or circumstances or people through God's eyes!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Dish Out
Friday, February 26, 2010
What is God's Will?
Moses said to Jethro, "...the people come to me to seek God's will."
So the logical question becomes, "What is God's will?"
Jesus said, "Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."
So the logical question again is..."What is God's will?"
Jesus also said, "If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own."
So the logical question remains: "What is God's will?"
Paul wrote the following: "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Okay. Okay. So..."What is God's will?"
And of course, Paul also said this about God's will - "And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will."
Come on, Man! Tell me pleeeessse! "What is God's will?"
"It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality..." (1 Thess. 4:3)
"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thess. 5:18)
"For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men." (1 Pet. 2:15)
So, to sum up the answer to the question, "What is God's will?" God's Word says:
Be Holy. Be Thankful. Be Good.
Are you in the center of God's will?
Dish Out
So the logical question becomes, "What is God's will?"
Jesus said, "Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."
So the logical question again is..."What is God's will?"
Jesus also said, "If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own."
So the logical question remains: "What is God's will?"
Paul wrote the following: "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Okay. Okay. So..."What is God's will?"
And of course, Paul also said this about God's will - "And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will."
Come on, Man! Tell me pleeeessse! "What is God's will?"
"It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality..." (1 Thess. 4:3)
"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thess. 5:18)
"For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men." (1 Pet. 2:15)
So, to sum up the answer to the question, "What is God's will?" God's Word says:
Be Holy. Be Thankful. Be Good.
Are you in the center of God's will?
Dish Out
Friday, February 19, 2010
Are you Wise?
This Sunday I am going to share an amazing story of God's grace and providence with our church. I cannot wait to share it because most people have never heard the story and most will not believe it when they do hear it, but it is all true!
As most of you know, my life verse (check out our website at www.c3charleston.com to find out) is one that deals with the subject of wisdom, and that verse will become the backbone of the message this Sunday as James teaches us how to receive wisdom and reject pride. I cannot wait!
Many of us have met people who we would consider to be wise. The definition of it is very different depending on the source from which you quote it. The Bible says that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." (Prov. 9:10; Psalm 111:10) This fear literally means having a healthy and continual reverence for the Creator of the universe, the Sustainer of the universe, the Provider of grace and the Eternal Father of the Redeemed. "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty."
Too often, we are thrust away from the throne room of heaven and into our everyday activities of temporal living. Our gaze must remain on the heavenly, the spiritual, the eternal. Once we get in the habit of maintaining that perspective, we approach closer and closer to the realm of true wisdom!
Blessings this week and I look forward to seeing you all Sunday!
Dish Out
As most of you know, my life verse (check out our website at www.c3charleston.com to find out) is one that deals with the subject of wisdom, and that verse will become the backbone of the message this Sunday as James teaches us how to receive wisdom and reject pride. I cannot wait!
Many of us have met people who we would consider to be wise. The definition of it is very different depending on the source from which you quote it. The Bible says that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." (Prov. 9:10; Psalm 111:10) This fear literally means having a healthy and continual reverence for the Creator of the universe, the Sustainer of the universe, the Provider of grace and the Eternal Father of the Redeemed. "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty."
Too often, we are thrust away from the throne room of heaven and into our everyday activities of temporal living. Our gaze must remain on the heavenly, the spiritual, the eternal. Once we get in the habit of maintaining that perspective, we approach closer and closer to the realm of true wisdom!
Blessings this week and I look forward to seeing you all Sunday!
Dish Out
Friday, February 12, 2010
Serving with a Purpose!
My heart was blessed the other night as I sat in my hotel room in Milwaukee, WI watching local news. A blizzard was moving through the area and a news team was dispatched to a local Milwaukee neighborhood. Three teenaged boys, home from school for the day, had decided to do something for their neighbors and not themselves.
So, they got up early that morning, donned their winter gear, grab some snow shovels and went from house to house on their block, shoveling the sidewalks and driveways for all of their neighbors. By the time the news team got to the street to see what was going on, these 3 boys had shoveled the entire block! When asked why they chose to do such a selfless act, one boy said, "It's better than sitting inside playing video games and drinking hot chocolate!"
This is a classic case of serving with a purpose. Our Lord commands us to serve others. In fact, he said that those who serve will be considered the greatest in the Kingdom of God. We can impact Charleston with the Gospel of Jesus Christ when our neighbors see us serving with a purpose.
Think to yourself today...how can I serve someone else with a purpose?
4 Him!
Randy
So, they got up early that morning, donned their winter gear, grab some snow shovels and went from house to house on their block, shoveling the sidewalks and driveways for all of their neighbors. By the time the news team got to the street to see what was going on, these 3 boys had shoveled the entire block! When asked why they chose to do such a selfless act, one boy said, "It's better than sitting inside playing video games and drinking hot chocolate!"
This is a classic case of serving with a purpose. Our Lord commands us to serve others. In fact, he said that those who serve will be considered the greatest in the Kingdom of God. We can impact Charleston with the Gospel of Jesus Christ when our neighbors see us serving with a purpose.
Think to yourself today...how can I serve someone else with a purpose?
4 Him!
Randy
Friday, February 5, 2010
Keep a Tight Rein on Your Tongue!
A wise person once told me, "If someone gossips to you about someone else, chances are they are gossiping to someone else about you!"
We live in a world where everybody loves a juicy story. Why do you think People, the Enquirer and Star magazines are so popular? In fact, every neighborhood has the queen or king of gossip. Every workplace has one too. And sadly, many if not most churches have a gossip ring as well.
Are you the kind of person who leans in on gossip, or leans away? The Bible warns us against using our tongue for tearing others down. Let's face it, we have all said things we wish we could take back. Sometimes, our mouth takes over before our brain has processed the potential damage that could be done. (WWJD?)
As far as people are concerned, there are two kinds...those who fill you up, and those who drain you out. What kind of person are you? No matter the answer today, God has all the tools and resources to turn you into a "filler-upper!"
Join us this Sunday for a little talk called "Get Real" at C3. It's just what the doctor ordered!
Dish Out
We live in a world where everybody loves a juicy story. Why do you think People, the Enquirer and Star magazines are so popular? In fact, every neighborhood has the queen or king of gossip. Every workplace has one too. And sadly, many if not most churches have a gossip ring as well.
Are you the kind of person who leans in on gossip, or leans away? The Bible warns us against using our tongue for tearing others down. Let's face it, we have all said things we wish we could take back. Sometimes, our mouth takes over before our brain has processed the potential damage that could be done. (WWJD?)
As far as people are concerned, there are two kinds...those who fill you up, and those who drain you out. What kind of person are you? No matter the answer today, God has all the tools and resources to turn you into a "filler-upper!"
Join us this Sunday for a little talk called "Get Real" at C3. It's just what the doctor ordered!
Dish Out
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Do you Show Favoritism?
Do you show favoritism? Jesus didn't. He hung out with the sinners, the lepers, the lowly, the crippled, the poor, the tired, the uneducated, the despised, the rejects of society. Why shouldn't we?
I once heard a pastor say that he does not follow up with visitors to his church who don't fit into his target demographic. WHAT????
But another pastor, who made it his mission to knock on EVERY door in his community, came to a house that was little more than a run-down shack. He almost passed by, attempting to convince himself that no one lived there, but the Holy Spirit said, "Knock." (Go out into the highways and byways) An old woman dressed in dirty, worn-out clothes answered the door. She was not a Christian and he shared with her the FACT that Jesus loved her and wants to save her.
He invited her to visit his church. She CAME! She came the next Sunday as well, perhaps because no one ever showed her any attention or unconditional love. In fact, it was clear to all that she could give nothing to the church. The next Sunday, she accepted Christ and told the pastor that she wanted HIM to baptize her. He did that Thursday night with a great celebration. (All of heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents!)
On Saturday she died. On Monday that pastor conducted her funeral, and instead of it being a funeral by which many would wonder what her final destination was, the pastor boldly proclaimed that she was now in the presence of her Savior, and that she would one day be given a white robe, and a new name, and a mansion in the sky!
All because one pastor refused to show favoritism. May the Lord grant all of us eyes to see, ears to hear, hands to touch, and hearts to feel EVERY person's need! What a day of rejoicing it will be...
Dish Out
I once heard a pastor say that he does not follow up with visitors to his church who don't fit into his target demographic. WHAT????
But another pastor, who made it his mission to knock on EVERY door in his community, came to a house that was little more than a run-down shack. He almost passed by, attempting to convince himself that no one lived there, but the Holy Spirit said, "Knock." (Go out into the highways and byways) An old woman dressed in dirty, worn-out clothes answered the door. She was not a Christian and he shared with her the FACT that Jesus loved her and wants to save her.
He invited her to visit his church. She CAME! She came the next Sunday as well, perhaps because no one ever showed her any attention or unconditional love. In fact, it was clear to all that she could give nothing to the church. The next Sunday, she accepted Christ and told the pastor that she wanted HIM to baptize her. He did that Thursday night with a great celebration. (All of heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents!)
On Saturday she died. On Monday that pastor conducted her funeral, and instead of it being a funeral by which many would wonder what her final destination was, the pastor boldly proclaimed that she was now in the presence of her Savior, and that she would one day be given a white robe, and a new name, and a mansion in the sky!
All because one pastor refused to show favoritism. May the Lord grant all of us eyes to see, ears to hear, hands to touch, and hearts to feel EVERY person's need! What a day of rejoicing it will be...
Dish Out
Friday, January 22, 2010
Are YOU a doer of the Word?
It's one thing to know what God's Word says. It's quite another to do it. Paul would say, "What I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do." After he goes through a process of recognizing the inner and outer forces diametrically opposed in his life, he concludes with a cry, "What a wretched man that I am!"
As we continue our study in James this weekend, he reminds us that we are not to "merely listen to the word," but to "do what it says." Thanks James. I wish I could get by with just agreeing with God's Word. Actually doing it is the key.
Come on out this Sunday and examine with us the steps to being a reflector of God's Word!
What a challenge but what a joy sits waiting for those who learn the art of hiding God's Word in their hearts!
Dish Out
As we continue our study in James this weekend, he reminds us that we are not to "merely listen to the word," but to "do what it says." Thanks James. I wish I could get by with just agreeing with God's Word. Actually doing it is the key.
Come on out this Sunday and examine with us the steps to being a reflector of God's Word!
What a challenge but what a joy sits waiting for those who learn the art of hiding God's Word in their hearts!
Dish Out
Friday, January 15, 2010
The Devil Made me do it...
Is that so?
The devil can tempt you. That is true. He can even try to seduce you. He can even pose the opportunity for you to sin. But here is freedom...
The devil can't MAKE you do ANYTHING!
He is powerless to drag you into sin yourself. Only you can drag yourself into sin. But in the depraved mind of the human being, it just feels a lot better blaming it on someone else. And nobody is going to argue with the sinister character of the devil. After all, Jesus called him the "father of lies."
But, if we can't blame the devil, then what can we do? How can one truly resist temptation? The fact is that we all fall from time to time - Governor Sanford, Tiger Woods, Bernie Maddoff, John Gosselin, Charlie Sheen, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Winona Ryder, and Lindsey Lohan can all attest to that!
This week, we explore the topic of temptation and learn from the Word how to resist it and experience the victory that only God can provide. I hope this blog tempts you to visit C3 this weekend!
Dish Out
The devil can tempt you. That is true. He can even try to seduce you. He can even pose the opportunity for you to sin. But here is freedom...
The devil can't MAKE you do ANYTHING!
He is powerless to drag you into sin yourself. Only you can drag yourself into sin. But in the depraved mind of the human being, it just feels a lot better blaming it on someone else. And nobody is going to argue with the sinister character of the devil. After all, Jesus called him the "father of lies."
But, if we can't blame the devil, then what can we do? How can one truly resist temptation? The fact is that we all fall from time to time - Governor Sanford, Tiger Woods, Bernie Maddoff, John Gosselin, Charlie Sheen, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Winona Ryder, and Lindsey Lohan can all attest to that!
This week, we explore the topic of temptation and learn from the Word how to resist it and experience the victory that only God can provide. I hope this blog tempts you to visit C3 this weekend!
Dish Out
Saturday, January 9, 2010
How do You React to Trials
At C3, we are beginning a new series entitled "Get Real...people are watching." In this first message tomorrow, we will see what the Bible has to say about the trials of life.
You know the old saying from Epictetus: "It's not what happens to you but how you react to it that matters."
Jesus said, "The rain falls on the just and the unjust." The point is that trials come to all of us. The key is how you react to those trials, troubles, tribulations, and tests.
So, we turn to the letter written by Jesus' half brother to learn the secret! Join us for what proves to be an eye-opening and fear-conquering message from God's Word tomorrow.
Oh, and if you have that whole reacting to trials down pat, join us next week to learn how to resist temptation. That should prove to be a real learning opportunity!
Dish Out
You know the old saying from Epictetus: "It's not what happens to you but how you react to it that matters."
Jesus said, "The rain falls on the just and the unjust." The point is that trials come to all of us. The key is how you react to those trials, troubles, tribulations, and tests.
So, we turn to the letter written by Jesus' half brother to learn the secret! Join us for what proves to be an eye-opening and fear-conquering message from God's Word tomorrow.
Oh, and if you have that whole reacting to trials down pat, join us next week to learn how to resist temptation. That should prove to be a real learning opportunity!
Dish Out
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