Deception Series: Dating

I wrote this Blog several "YEARS" ago but forgot to finish it and post it, so here it is.

To continue with the Deception Series, I picked a topic close to home for most if not all at some point, dating.  I dated, you dated, we all dated at some point.  My premiss though is that "Dating" is NOT God's plan and never was.  I can hear you already: Well, what are we suppose to do then?  The purpose of dating has been to lead towards marriage, now it is to find personal fulfillment from whomever you can get it from without marriage or to "have fun" which usually ends up being one and the same.  You simply have to look at out of marriage pregnancies to show this true.

How many relationships (yours or those you know about) has one or both parties tried to "make" work when outsiders (your family and friends) recognized is wrong.  I don't care how much you pray or fast. It is really simple, if you have compromised ANYTHING while dating, you are in the wrong relationship.  Obviously I am talking about Believers (Christians).  God has only one requirement for marriage and that is that a Christian marries a Christian (2 Corinthians 6:14).  This is not a wish or some good advice, it is a commandment.

2 Corinthians 6:14 HRB  Do not unite in marriage with unbelievers. For what partnership does righteousness have with lawlessness? And what fellowship does light have with darkness?

The Message Bible says that "this is not a partnership (marriage), but war."  If this is the case why, WHY would you even think about dating an unbeliever.  As I say; If you marry an unbeliever, your father-in-law is the devil!  

When a woman says "I love you", she is saying I am committed and will marry you.  That is not what a man is saying when he says it.  Men say I love you like I love pizza and most women don't know that or want to know that.  This is why women will sleep with a man and then can't figure out why he won't want to tie the knot as they say.  Of course we are in an age of more aggressive women and mealy mouse men.  You want to see the curse proclaimed in Genesis 3:16 coming true?  Look at all the women who wear the pants or are trying to wear the pants in the family, and the husbands might as well be wearing dresses!

Violent Take it By Force!

Each day I am inundated with news of violence, crime and use of force issues.  This brings to mind an unusual verse in the bible that seems to be very difficult to interpret.  Now some verses are straight forward and some are not.  It is not to say that reading the Bible is without profit unless you are saved.  As a matter of fact, just reading the Bible and what it "simply" says about man's sinful condition and God's redeeming plan of Salvation, can be easily understood by all!  The Bible is both a book of Information and Transformation.  If you are already saved (Thank God), then reading the Bible and not quite fully understanding it is still ok because the Word of God speaks to your Spirit to bring Transformation.  It is done by not conforming or submitting to your sinful nature.  God's righteousness, holiness, and ULTIMATE sacrifice can bring someone to salvation!
Romans 12:2 NKJV  And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Bible says what it says and means what it means:
Several people say, "The Bible says what it means and means what it says."  Although that sounds good - it's no good!  It simply is not true.  The Bible says what it says and means what it means!  Although there are many things God says to us that are just as He speaks or writes them, such as sin, redemption, holiness, grace, and mercy, there are deeper things.  There are "hidden" things (knowledge) according to scripture: Deuteronomy 29:29 (CSB) The hidden things belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our children forever, so that we may follow all the words of this law.  

God says His word and ways are foolishness to the "natural" (sinful) man.

1 Corinthians 1:27 (ESV)  But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;  

God reveals these things and gives understanding through His Spirit.

1 Corinthians 2:10-14 (ESV)

10 these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.

11 For who knows a person's thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.

12 Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God.

13 And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.

14 The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.

I wrote all that to write this.  The verse I am talking about is Mat 11:12 which talks about God's kingdom, violence, and force?

Matthew 11:12 NKJV

(12)  And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence and the violent take it by force.

Many well known and respected men of God will say that they are not sure what this passage means.  There are three common interpretations.  By The Way, just because there are different interpretations of this verse doesn't negate God's Word in any way.  There are many, many things about scripture we will never know this side of heaven, and just because we don't know doesn't diminish God in any way - it only proves to exalt Him more.  With that said, here is my perspective.

Violence is a word that you can't get away from in society.  Its use is almost always in the negative and so are most of its definitions.  In Law Enforcement, we say: Violence is neither bad nor good, it just is!  Police use greater violence to control violence.  Force is a word that can be used in place of violence.  We might agree that all violence involves force but not all force is violent.  Granted the force used by police is controlled, lawful, and extremely scrutinized but it is violent and violence none the same.

Now you might say violence in any form is bad.  Football is a very violent sport and yet we don't call it bad.  The more you understand about the game the more violence plays into the game.  We can agree or disagree on the use of the word, however, it is this perspective I want to use to address this scripture.  

"From the days of John the Baptist" (not a denomination here), his days are about one proclaiming for all to repent.

Matthew 3:1-2 NKJV

(1)  In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea,

(2)  and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!"

People didn't like that message then and they don't like it today.  They didn't like John proclaiming about it and Jesus fulfilling it!  Why?  Great question, because it means that "I" just can't do whatever I want, that there are consequences to my actions and choices, that some things are JUST PLAIN WRONG, and that I will have to give an account for what I do?  OUUUUCH!  I know that hurt but it is true.

"Kingdom of heaven suffers violence".  We must always be careful about translating English words into our current times.  This can mean to rush into or press ahead foolishly without counting the cost.  Rush into what?  Salvation.  Counting what cost?  Christian life or more accurately, repentance, and faith.  When someone rushes into salvation they usually end up with a false conversion and a false view of Christ.  This not only hurts them but Christianity also.  Think of how many marriages in our country that were, rushed into, without or against Godly counsel, and how did they turn out?

"And the violent take it by force", I believe has a two-fold application.

1.  Forceful persistence and tenacious behavior can yield results.  The question is what type of results are you looking for?  God's or your own?

2.  One of the words translated in Greek here is "harpazo" which means to snatch away.  This is the word used in "rapture", a catching away.  Another word here is translated "autos" which means "self".  Used here I see the meaning to be, God will forcefully take me home, He will grab me outta here!  I know it is bad English but ya know what I mean?

There is a war going on in the spirit world and it is violent.  We may not see it or even realize the effects it is having on or around us - but it is forcefully going on none the less.  Ask God to use whatever force is necessary to accomplish His plans and purposes for your life.  For those loved ones who are not saved, ask God to forcefully call them to Himself.

Be tenacious in your prayers because the violent take them by force...

ernie

Who's Hands?

Back in the mid 1990's I was introduced to Pastor Robert Volpe during a training class for the Sheriff's Office.  Pastor "Rob" was a Reserve Officer with the PBSO.  He became a Reserve to try and reach out to the other cops which he had a heart for and a desire to be.

I immediately took to him and over the years that followed we became very good friends.  Pastor Bob loved me unconditionally and discipled me in the years to follow.

In the late 1990's I was going through some very difficult times (who doesn't) with a relationship.  Since I am a hands-on, take charge and make things happen kind of guy, Pastor Bob was always trying to get me to stop handling things and allow God to work on my behalf.  I struggled with this until one day when he told me; Ern, the more you put your hands on this situation, the more God removes His hands from it.  Now who's hands do you want to be on it, yours or His?

From that moment on, I often think of what Pastor Rob said when I encounter a problem I "need" to fix!  I am indebted to him for not only this but for all the time he took pointing and pushing me in the right direction.

Today, Officer Robert Volpe works for the Jupiter Police Dept. and is a Traffic Homicide Investigator and Chaplin for that agency.

UPDATE 2024: Pastor Rob is BACK!!!!  He is Pastoring again (Thank the Lord) at the Nettles Island Church in Florida.  I actually got an opportunity to Preach at his church about a month ago.  What a blessing to be discipled by him then follow in his footsteps and preach for his congregation.

The Two Best and Worst Places To Be?

The two best and worst places to be, happen to be the same places!?  Now I know when I mention these two places you will say; I know a better place or places than those.  What makes these places the best, is circumstances and understanding of their importance.  What makes them the worst is circumstances and your lack of understanding of their importance.  With that, let's get started.

Two days ago I spoke with a very close friend who had been taken to the hospital with pneumonia.  It made me glad that he was getting help (which he recovered) but I then felt an overwhelming sense of concern.  My bride has been in the health care industry for about fifteen years and has told me horror stories.  Forbes magazine did an article in April entitled; The Most Dangerous Place in The World.  There are many documented articles of hospital incompetence, but we can say that about any field.  The problem is that when you are taken to the hospital people expect perfection or at least extra precautions, however, there is a greater threat to patients, it is germs and disease.  Especially in very populated cities, these super germs are resilient to most and possibly all forms of penicillin.  That is one reason why hospitals try to get you out as soon as they can, why outpatient surgery has become more popular.  

I just want to say, before we get to the next best and worst place, that I respect and have a strong affinity for health care professionals.  As a retired Law Enforcement Officer, we closely interacted with them from paramedics (thank the Lord for them) to ER Staff.  I went to the ER as a patient several times because of work.  Again, when you are hurt or need serious medical procedures, there is not a better place to be!

That brings us to the second, or should I say other best and worst place and you guessed it (if you know me at all) and that is the Church!  Now as the best place, that SHOULD be obvious, but let me address a  major misconception - IT IS NOT GOD's HOUSE!  Oh, we call it that, but God doesn't dwell there and wait for us to come in.  In the Old Testament, God dwelt in the Tabernacle (Exodus 15:17) which He had very specific instructions to its construction (Exodus 36:8-38).

The New Testament dwelling place of God was His Son Jesus (John 14:10) (Revelation 21:22).  God now dwells with His people by treating them as the temple and dwelling in them directly.   God dwells in His church (corporately) (I Cor. 3.16) and in each individual Christian (I Cor. 6.19).  The question you should be asking is what makes this a "worst' place?  There are three types of people in any church congregation;

1.) BELIEVERS

2.) UNBELIEVERS

3,) MAKE-BELIEVERS

To be in the presence of God, via His Holy Spirit and not be moved to repent or changed by the Cross of Christ and Jesus' spilled blood for the remission of your sins, quite frankly is scary!  I remember an Old Pastor of mine told me about a major revival in the early 20th Century which lasted several weeks.  God was moving dynamically, yet there were people sitting in the pews that fell asleep of boredom.  The real danger is two-fold; the first thinking I am now Saved and have made it.  Salvation is not an end, it is just the beginning!  My favorite Bible teacher asks; How many of you are saved?  Ok, what have you done with it?  What a question!  How convicting!  The second part is the make-believer.  This is typically someone who thinks they are saved but is a false convert.  Read the Six Signs of a False Conversion.

"When considering the possibility of a false conversion it is important to understand that there are hundreds of millions of people who sincerely believe that they are true followers of God and many of these same people have dedicated their lives to doing good works. However, sincerity in a belief system and doing good works does not equate to conversion, because true conversion is a process through which a person enters the Sovereign Father's holy family and nation."

There is, of course, another reason for make-believers and that is they are enemies of Jesus.  You figure out who or whom that might be...

Blessings

ernie

Santa Exposed: Part I

You're not going to like me for this one, BUT, I don't write these for you to like me.   Well, let's get to it.

You can find him in any mall prior to Christmas, sitting on his throne while lines of children wait just to sit on his lap and be judged; "have you been a good little boy..."  This jolly old man, his head and beard as white as snow, that rides in a sleigh, pulled by reindeer, giving presents to good little boys and girls if their name is in his book.  All with the help of Santa's elves.  Just fun fantasy you say?  

Before we dive into the above paragraph, let's look at the two most common responses from "Christians".


First:  That Santa comes from the Catholic Bishop Saint Nicholas.  By the 1500s, the St Nicholas legend had grown in France and Germany.  The Christmas Almanack writes:  "By the height of the Middle Ages, St. Nicholas was probably invoked in prayer more than any other figure except the Virgin Mary and Christ Himself."

The St. Nicholas legend has many miraculous stories to include resurrections of dead children, rescues of poverty-stricken girls, and giving gifts to poor children which is why he is called the Patron Saint of Children.

There is little to no evidence of the actual existence of a person named St Nicholas.  99 Encyclopedia Britannica:  Nicholas' existence is not attested by any historical document, so nothing certain is known of his life except that he was probably bishop of Myra in the fourth century. . .

The Christmas Almanack records;  Unfortunately, very little is known about the real St. Nicholas. Countless legends have grown up around this very popular saint, but very little historical evidence is available.

Encarta Encyclopedia;  Nicholas, Saint (lived the 4th century), Christian prelate, patron saint of Russia, traditionally associated with Christmas celebrations. The accounts of his life are confusing and historically unconfirmed.

Finally, in 1969 Pope Paul VI, "because the saint's life is so unreliably documented", had the feast of Saint Nicholas dropped from the official Roman Catholic!  Even if there was a St Nicholas, God is a jealous God; Exodus 34:14 NLT; "You must worship no other gods, for the LORD, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about His relationship with you.  He shares himself with no one!

Second:  That the real name of Santa is Kriss Kringle?  Kriss Kringle means "Little Christ Child" in German?  This means that Santa is a COUNTERFEIT!  Kriss Kringle is not The Christ Child and Jesus is not a baby, but the King of Kings!


Ernie, please don't let the truth interfere with my presuppositions, you Scrooge!
Stay tuned for Santa Exposed: Part II, where we will attack that first paragraph...

Blessings

ernie

Santa Exposed: Part III

Here we are again for our third segment of Santa Exposed.  In review we looked at St Nicholas, Kriss Kringle and Santa's Throne.  Now we will look at Santa himself!  We were operating on our original paragraph:

You can find him in any mall prior to Christmas, sitting on his throne while lines of children wait just to sit on his lap and be judged; "have you been a good little boy..."  This jolly old man, his head and beard as white as snow, that rides in a sleigh, pulled by reindeer, giving presents to good little boys and girls if their name is in his book.  All with the help of Santa's elves.  Just fun fantasy you say?

So we start this segment with:  This jolly old man, his head and beard as white as snow.

Revelation 1:13-14 NIV and among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man," dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest.
His head and hair (beard were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire.


Santa is referred to as "Father Christmas" which ties him to the very beginning or "Ancient of Days":

Daniel 7:9 NIV As I looked, thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze.

The term "Father" is reserved for the Most High:

Matthew 23:9 NIV  And do not call anyone on earth 'father,' for you have one Father, and he is in heaven.

Mere coincidence you say?  
The Jewish Rabbi's have a saying; Coincidence is not Kosher.  
I say "Coincidence" is God's middle name!?  
Could there actually be something to what I am writing about?  
Why such a need to make Santa have the attributes and likeness of Christ?  
Is that not a good thing Ernie?

We will answer these and finish in the next segment...

Santa Exposed: Part II

Previously, we began to look into the mystical person of Santa Clause and his beginnings, or what we think they are?  We learned that St Nicholas as we know him didn't exist and that Kriss Kringle is an imposter of The "Little Christ Child".  Remember the great imposter wants to deceive by being like the real thing but with an ulterior motive.  

Isaiah 14:12-14 NLT  "How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world.
For you said to yourself, 'I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God's stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north.
I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.'

Now we are going to dissect our original paragraph which is reprinted below:

You can find him in any mall prior to Christmas, sitting on his throne while lines of children wait just to sit on his lap and be judged; "have you been a good little boy..."  This jolly old man, his head and beard as white as snow, that rides in a sleigh, pulled by reindeer, giving presents to good little boys and girls if their name is in his book.  All with the help of Santa's elves.  Just fun fantasy you say?

First: "You can find him in any mall prior to Christmas, sitting on his throne while lines of children wait to sit on his lap and be judged; "have you been a good little boy..."  

Mark 10:13-16 NLT One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so He could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering Him.
When Jesus saw what was happening, He was angry with His disciples. He said to them, "Let the children come to Me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.
I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."
Then He took the children in His arms and placed His hands on their heads and blessed them.

Kids love Santa, why, because he first loved them and provide for them.  They feel safe with him and tell him all sorts of stuff to include problems and secrets?  Just check with the post office to see how many letters are addressed to Santa each year.

1 John 4:19 MKJV We love Him because He first loved us.

Santa sits in judgment over the children by asking if they have been bad or good.

Acts 10:42 NLT And He ordered us to preach everywhere and to testify that Jesus is the One appointed by God to be the Judge of all—the living and the dead.

Next Time in our Santa series, we will look at: "This jolly old man, his head and beard as white as snow,"?

Stay tuned for Santa Exposed: Part III

Cry For The UnBorn

Great, Good and Gracious God, we your body of believers here, come before you on behalf of our Nation which is seemingly running away from You Lord God. Your word says “where two or more are gathered in Your Name, You are in the Midst of them”.You have already been in the midst of this atrocity, this ritualistic sacrifice of the unborn called ABORTION and have been waiting for Your Bride to gather around You!

As we pray unto our God Jehovah, may there be nothing, no sin in our lives between us to hinder our prayers. And so I ask for forgiveness of my sins which are many, my families sins, the sins of our church body, specifically the Sin of Omission – doing NOTHING why your Babies cry out to us for help and to be rescued. 

The Church is called Your Bride (female)and Your Son, our Savior, The Bridegroom(male). It should be our nature to nurture and our purpose to protect, the unborn. Lord we ask forgiveness now on our complacency, our apathy, our turning and looking away, our quiet voices and pulpits. For those in the Body of Christ Jesus, that have had, or taken part in an abortion, we plead the Blood of The Lamb of Christ Jesus over them, for it is the ONLY thing that can wash away their sin and ours. 

Our Lord, My LORD GOD who sits on high and watches over His Word to perform, we ask You to take control of this sin that plagues our hearts, our nation and our Souls. Hear the cries of not only those Babies, but your Church.

Your Word says in 2 Chronicles 7 that “Solomon finished the house of the Lord”and“successfully accomplished all that came into his heart to make in the house of the LORD and in his own house”, “Then the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said to him: "I have heard your prayer, and have chosen this place for Myself.”

Father God, you know the plans we have for Your Name at our new property and that we successfully accomplish them there and in our own homes also, in Jesus Name. Then your word says; “When I shut up heaven and there is no rain,”(Lord there is no rain of prayers from your people on behalf of the unborn)“or command the locusts to devour the land,”(Lord this Sin of Abortion is devouring our land), “or send pestilence among My people”,(the Churches apathy and complacency has been a stench to Your Nostrils). BUT You Oh Gracious God have given us a remedy of hope; for “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

Today we humbly bow our knees and hearts before The Creator of all things, we Your people, the called, men and women who can discern the times, chosen by You for such a time as this. We are praying and seeking Your Face and not Your Hand today. Help us by the power of the Holy Spirit to turn from our wicked ways. Show us in our lives what we need to get rid of so that You will hear our prayers in heaven! Lord, hear us now as Your people cry out, and forgive our sin Oh God, and heal Your Church, our families, and our land.

In JESUS NAME

ernie

Time for Team America

First things first; no one forces anyone to "pledge" their allegiance to anything in our country, but I Pledge Allegiance To The Flag of this country.  When you have pledged yourself Of United States of America, there are and should be many benefits to this allegiance.  Most notably the Freedom's and Right's granted to us by OUR Constitution to which our sacred right is the VOTE in this land.

We do extend the Freedom's and Right's of OUR Constitution to visitors and guests of OUR Nation, HOWEVER, when you withdraw your allegiance and or perform an act deliberately disrespecting our great land And To The Republic For Which It Stands, for, then those Freedom's and Right's should be removed and so should you!

This Country was NOT founded on "rebellion" (which the Bible calls the same as witchcraft-evil) but on Revolution.  We are One Nation Under GOD and when it's own citizens don't understand this great blessing and responsibility given to us by our Creator for not only the good of us and Israel, but the World, it takes us from Indivisible, With Liberty And Justice For All., to divided and weak, a help for no one including ourselves.

One great thing about teams is that they are united, putting the team above self or personal interests, not caring about the race or color of your teammates.  Being able to celebrate with those different from ourselves, to hug and legitimately care and be concerned for other players, especially injured ones and their families.  Knowing your position on the team and the part it plays for a successful outcome.

Last night, two college football teams played in the largest recorded venue, 156,990 attendees!  It was more than the 22 players on the field, the ones on the side lines, the coaches and staff, the sportscasters, cameramen, writers, security, vendors, ticket takers, construction crew, field maintenance people, janitors and of course the Dr Pepper man.  You getting what I'm putting down yet?  When we are like minded, not alike in looks, color or thought, but like minded in Spirit, Our Nation Under God has accomplished more than any other!

With sports and entertainment "stars" not standing for OUR "National Anthem" and people regularly burning or desecrating OUR FLAG, it is time to call on OUR team to return to the field, Team America!

Blessings this 911 America
ernie

Redistributing The Wealth

A little over five years ago I wrote a blog on Socialism v. Capitalism, entitled Socialism is a Pie, Capitalism is a Cake!  I make it a habit not to comment on comments, especially if the comments are disagreeable.  I do welcome counterpoints, however, when a counterpoint, in my opinion, twists or shows a lack of understanding of Scripture, the urge to respond is great.  Well I let it pass, obviously, but a statement was made (by the same acquaintance) that although they did not believe in socialism, they did think there should be a "redistribution of wealth".  Now I paraphrased the last sentence except the quoted remarks.  It is not my friend I want to attack, but the thinking that they and many many many others have been indoctrinated into in our nation, through our school system no less!

Today my Bride told me that she read that the Democratic party is now the Socialist Party and the

Republican Party is the New Democratic Party.  It is a shame that it took me four elections ago to realize neither party has my interest at all.  Both serve for one reason - TO GAIN POWER!  Although the DEMONcrats have sold out our nation years ago, the Republicans sell me and my Christian Conservative values out personally.  Think about how wishy-washy republican candidates are?  I don't even have to name names if you pay attention to how they vote.  To democrats defense, although they are destroying this nations foundation, they are at least consistent with there views.  (I never thought I could give democrats a compliment, that's as close as I can get)

Sorry for ranting.  What I wanted to let those people who have been indoctrinated into socialism, YOU HAVE ALWAYS HAD THE POWER TO REDISTRIBUTE THE WEALTH - as an American and not a socialist.  How you say?  If you think a certain "big business" or its representatives are getting to much money - DON'T PATRONIZE THEM!  Same with overpaid sports players; don't buy tickets, paraphernalia, or watch them on TV or attend sports bars or buy beer that is advertised during their events!  That's right - you do your work with your money, NOT THE GOVERNMENT.  No one is stopping you from redistributing your wealth - so stop complaining and go ahead and do it.

When the government "takes" my money and gives it to whom they wish, there is nothing Biblical about that.  Socialism has little to do with me choosing where my money should go but where the group thinks it should go.  There is NOTHING in the Bible that remotely represents socialism.  God does desire us to desire to give (willfully, on our own) to the work of the church.  By the way, we do not give to "The Kingdom".  If God's Kingdom needed our funding, it would never get built.  The reality is, God Built His Kingdom already!  His Kingdom is finished.  Jesus went ahead to prepare a place for us.

NOTE: No poor person ever hired another to work.  No poor person has ever lifted another poor person out of poverty and finally no socalistic country works for the benefit of all, just the elite few!

Is your place prepared?
Blessings
ernie

Faith, Thought and You

Recently and very good friend of mine sent me an article titled; "Thinking can undermine religious faith, study finds".  After reading the article I responded to him this way:

1Co 1:25-27 NKJV Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. (26) For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. (27) But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;

What I found interesting is that God already knew this and further stated that because of this "handicap", not many noble (intellectually challenged) are called?  How sad that those who think themselves "smarter" actually will be found to be "Spiritual Fools" in the end.

The article talked about analytical thinkers.  I have taken several test which confirmed that I too am analytical to the point of being hemorrhoidal!  The article ended by saying even the most "religious" (I hate that term) have moments of doubt.  DUHH!  I never doubt God and who He is, just what He is doing.

Lady Huntington, a friend of Whitfield and the Wesleys: She was “saved by an ‘m’:” It says “not many,” not “not any.”

Finally, I am glad that I am not hindered by to much intelligence (did I spell that write) (I mean right).  This I do know: I am a Fool for Christ.  Who's Fool are you?

Blessings

ernie

Mike's Question About Commandment "10"

WOO HOO last one!

Mike asks;
10. Do not covet. Who among us has never wished for something that someone else has. Or wished they went on that trip that their friend went on. This one is also way too vague for me.

Scripture says;

Exodus 20:17 NKJV    You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor's.

The biblical definition of covet is to wish to have the possessions of others.  This goes beyond simply admiring someone else's possessions or thinking, "I'd like to have that."  Coveting includes envy which is resenting the fact that others have what you don't.  God knows, that possessions never make anyone happy for long.  Since only God can supply all our needs, true contentment can only be found in him.

My Pastor says; "I have a wanter and it wants."  The constant bombardment of things doesn't help me watch what my "wanter" wants, however, envying is crossing a completely different gulf as opposed to  buying something I shouldn't.

I agree with Dr Missler in that "Perspective" is one of the most valuable things we can get.  When you gain perspective on God's plan, not just the one for your life but His eternal plan, decisions on what I thought I wanted verses what I really want become much clearer.  When I was in South Africa I got an overdose of perspective which has been haunting me ever since.

After 911, I heard author Max Lucado say; Now there are only two things that matter, those that do and those that don't.  Funny how small those that do went to after 911!?

Maybe you should be asking yourself what you really want?

I wanted to comment on Mike's closing remarks from his questions;
So yes, I'm sure all the good Christians can justify whatever they've done that go against the way the 10 commandments are written. But it's just a little much for me. And these are only my questions on the commandments. The bible is filled with contradictions. So you keep living your Christian lifestyle. I'm going to keep living by the golden rule and I'll bet that I have higher values that some people that go to your church.

First: Mike is right!  There is no justification for going against the Ten Commandments.  The commandments where given to us to show our need for a Savior - because we couldn't possibly measure up.

Second: Mike says he would rather live by the golden rule (than be a hypocrite) and have higher values than those that go to church.  He is probably right!  What is the golden rule and where did it come from?  Jesus said;
Matthew 5:17 NKJV   Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.

And if you were to finish reading the rest of that chapter Jesus even makes the Ten Commandments harder!  However;

James 2:8 NKJV   If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF," you do well;

Do well Brother

ernie

Mike's Question About Commandment "9"

Mike asks;
9. Do not lie. But little lies are ok? The police officer that tells a child that the doctors are doing all they can for mommy when he knows she was dead on arrival? Telling a friend that you just need them to come over to "help" with something while a surprise party is being set up? Telling your significant other that she looks good when you know dam well she doesn't?

Scripture says;
Exodus 20:16 NKJV   You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

To "bear false witness against" others is to lie about them, typically for personal gain or out of fear (two most common reasons).  The Hebrew word translated “neighbor” in this commandment means an associate, a brother, companion, fellow, friend, husband, lover, or neighbor.   The terminology indicates the focus is on slander and libelous accusations, primarily within a legal setting.  The preservation of justice is dependent on the reliability of the witness.  Character assassination in any form, would constitute false witness and would be a violation of this commandment.

The Israelites were commanded to be truthful in all things, especially when speaking about another person.  God's people were not to lie publicly, as in a court of law by any false charge against another.  God is perfection and requires it of us.  There are many scriptures that indicate that God cannot lie.

Tit 1:2 NKJV  in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began,

Our ignorance says; He is God, He can do anything right?  The god of the koran is allah, he is not the same as God like people are lead to believe.  Jehovah is immutable, unchanging which gives us security  in knowing He is who He said He is and will do and be what He said He will be.  Where as allah is capricious and the koran flaunts this, he can change is mind whenever he wants - that is not security but fear.

The Bible says that God chose us before the foundations of the world.  Spurgeon writes: “I’m glad He did it then; if he saw me now, he might have changed his mind.”  We can rest in the fact that God is unchanging and so is His love for Mike and me.

There is a thing called Compulsory Honesty which is a very dangerous thing.  I have "friends" like this who brag (pride) about being honest.  Their honesty is unwanted (not asked for), unhealthy and is based on skin deep reactions (superficial responses from an untamed tongue).  The Bible tells us to tell the truth in love.  I will admit that telling the truth in love doesn't always have to sound lovely, but still must be out of a loving heart.

Again we lie when it is to our benefit - You look great baby!  We lie when we are afraid - I don't want to be the one to tell that kid their mommy is dead.  

Have I lied?  Yes.  Will I lie again?  Unfortunately...

ernie

Mike's Question About Commandment "8"

Mike asks;
8. Do not steal. OK, steal what? Items? Time? a kiss? plagiarism? cheating on a test (stealing an answer). Where is the line drawn on this one?

Scripture says;

Exodus 20:15 NKJV  You shall not steal.
Stealing / theft is the unlawful acquiring of another's goods or assets, monetary value is of no consequence unto God.  Theft disturbs the right to ownership of property.  The legal acquisition and protection of personal property is a fundamental  principle for societal stability.  Commandments five to nine all deal with issues of community, respect and personal standing (position).  While God doesn't want us to steal "stuff", the urge and quest to obtain "stuff" is another problem altogether.

As usual, my Brother Mike is more in tune with God's meaning than most.  "Steal what" he says and then lists several things - which God would say to Mike; You are correct!  This commandment forbids us to rob ourselves.  How?  By sinful (over) spending, or of the excessive need of comfort at my neighbors expense.  Not only robbing others by invading our neighbor's rights, taking of their goods, or house, or land, forcibly or clandestinely, but also over - reaching in bargains, not restoring what is borrowed or found, with - holding just debts, rents or wages; and, which is worst of all, to rob the public of taxes.  JUST GREAT ERNIE - I was fine until you mentioned taxes!  You are such a fun-sucker.

God's view of theft is cut and dry.  I am going to add just a few scriptures from the book of 1 Corinthians.  I preface it by saying that he (Paul) is writing to believers!?  (Mike, you might find this refreshing Brother)

1Corinthians 6:5-6 NLT
(5) I am saying this to shame you. Isn't there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues? (he is talking about law suites)
(6) But instead, one believer sues another—right in front of unbelievers!  (ouch, that smarts!)

(8) Instead, you yourselves are the ones who do wrong and cheat even your fellow believers. (DOUBLE WHAMMY)

(9) Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality,
(10)  or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.

Paul just got through verbally spanking these ignorant, worldly, finger-pointing, backstabbing believers!  Uh, wait a minute, I think he was talking about me...

But he is not done;

1Corinthians 6:11 NLT     Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Thank God for His Grace towards me.  Those verses were to bring correction to the believer and HOPE to the unbeliever not condemnation!

Mike, I am truly sorry for those of us (myself included) that have misused the precious Grace God has given us towards people who don't believe - SHAME ON ME!  However, God's Grace still Saves and is great.  I hope you receive it one day Brother.

GRACE is; God's Riches at Christ's Expense!

Only two more.
Blessings
ernie

Mike's Question About Commandment "7"

Mike asks;
7. Do not commit adultery. Fine, but again, this is different for all religions. What about the Mormon man who has 5 wives? What about that tribe in Africa where the more wives you have the more respected you are?

Scripture says;

Exodus 20:14 NKJV  You shall not commit adultery.

You say that this is different for all religions?  As far as Christianity goes, it is rather straight forward as you eluded to "Fine".  As for Mormonism, it is a cult and not Christianity!  Refer to; Mormonism by GotQuestions.org.  Jesus said;

John 14:6-9 NLT
(6) Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me.
(7) If you had really known Me, you would know who My Father is. From now on, you do know Him and have seen Him!"
(8) Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied."
(9) Jesus replied, "Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don't know who I am? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father! So why are you asking Me to show Him to you?

Many "religions" use the same lingo (names, words, terms) as Christianity but use a different dictionary?  If they have a false view of Jesus then the have a false father - satan is that impostor and loves false religions!

I came back from South Africa a few weeks ago (small country inside a LARGE Continent) and didn't come in contact with any "African" that had multiple wives.  Who wants multiple mother-in-laws?  Sorry Kathy, I love you very much!!!  (I'm in trouble)

Blessings
ernie

Mike's Question About Commandment "6"

Mike asks;
6. Do not murder. Well, most can say they've never done this. But this is one of the ones I have the biggest problems with. How many stories of war are there in the bible? And is murder only restricted to people? What about animals that are eaten? What about killing the plants that you eat? What about swatting that mosquito that is biting you? Does the bible specify what, if anything, is ok to kill?

Well as usual Brother, you ask some deeeeeep questions and start with some truth that a lot of Christians miss.  Let us see what scripture says first;

Exodus 20:13 KJV   Thou shalt not kill.

The above scripture is the King James Translation (I can hear the other questions already, Brother) and when we use a "concordance" for the word "kill" it tells the word is;

"raw-tsakh'"

A primitive root; properly to dash in pieces, that is, kill (a human being), especially to murder: - put to death, kill, (man-) slay (-er), murder (-er).

Simply, it is murder which is limited to humans only - as is most law around the world.  Not sure for Hindu's which hold animals (cows) sacred?  For all the law we know or have known it has always been limited to people.  God does however address animal abuse though.  I am impressed that you got the most important part right Brother!  Now some are saying is there really a big difference between the two - YES!

Since both Mike and myself are retired Law Enforcement we know there is a difference between murder and justifiable homicide (killing).   Although war crimes do occur which can be charged as murder, as a whole war is killing.

There are several cases of war in the Bible, as a matter of fact the Bible is all about "war" you could say.  The Bible outlines the war for our souls and His plan to Redeem (save) us from it!  We as the "creation" often don't understand the Creator - which, think about it, how could we?

Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT
(8) "My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. "And My ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.
(9) For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts.

Think about it for a minute, this has to be true, if you believe in God of course.  He doesn't just know history, He writes it!  That is His unique only to Him.

Isa 46:9-10 NKJV
(9) Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me,
(10) Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, 'My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure,'

As far as food goes, prior to the "fall" (Adam sinning), Adam and Eve ate from the garden, but there was no death (animal food) until Adam sinned.  Which brings us to a boat load of cool questions about a pre-flood earth.

Lastly, the Bible does talk a lot about food and by the way, there will be food in Heaven (thank God), not that we will need it though!?  Mosquitos and wasps are dead meat around me - I can't stand either one...

Blessings
ernie

Mike's Question About Commandment "5"

Mike asks;
5. Honor thy mother and thy father. Another pretty easy one to follow. But how many of you have ever talked back? And was this brought up in confession if you ever did? And to what extent does the honor go? If you've ever done something and said to yourself "my mother would kill me if she knew I was doing this", then isn't this one broken?

Scripture says;

Deuteronomy 5:16 KJV
(16)  Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Although this "SHOULD" be an easy one to follow, often it is not.  Instead of Honouring our parents for their sacrifices, care, guidance and love towards us, we look at their mistakes, wrong choices in both our and their lives, quirks, et., and dishonour them with back talk, murmuring, rudeness or just plain shut them out of our lives and their grand children's lives too.  Honouring them is the  key to societal stability.  It is reverence and respect for not just our parents and their authority, but seniors as a whole.  This is the first commandment with a promise which was primarily related the command to life in the Promised Land.  This was designed to remind the Israelite's of the program God had set up for his people.

Now as these people are going into the land promised to them, they are to honor their father and their mother.  Although I realize that not all fathers and mothers are worthy of this respect, a nation that does not observe this commandment will not be blessed.  This very thing is a bigger problem in America right now than we even realize.  Most Christians and non-Christians would agree, as a whole we do not treat our elders with reverence as in the past or as other cultures have done.  Our emphasis is on "youth" and all the ignorance, stupidity, selfishness and self-centeredness it brings.  [I can hear some of you right now; My kid(s) are great...blah blah blah.  Well so are mine, HOWEVER it is our nature to act like I have indicated.]  Without proper "PARENTAL" (that's should be Father & Mother, sometimes Grandparents or just plain older folks who care) leading, guiding and directing (they are all different) you get BRAT's and even with the best up-bringing you get them.  (I wanted to write gettem but the computer kept correcting me) Heck, I am a brat!

Media bombards children to question authority does it not?  Well is that not some times a good idea Ernie?  Well is that not sometimes such a good idea ernie (whiny voice) - you make me sick!  Don't you get it???  It is your authority and it's responsibility that is being questioned - not the "things" that should be questioned.  Besides that, if my children are raised to honour me they will honour you also and will be able to identify when a lack of honouring is occurring and question that!  But now we have a health care system that will limit care to elderly - and if you think otherwise you are a fool!  Sorry about that, I got carried away, but it is still true.  Folks, this didn't occur overnight.  First "he" (who is he?) starts by stating the unborn are not life, then we get Dr Kevorkians (history will eventually show him for what he was - a serial killer) and now we don't need Kevorkian to do it, our government will.  

Mike is right about us all doing things our parents would not approved of.  Oh and by the way, why did you do them then, knowing your parents would not approve?  It is because your a "good person"?  Take the Good Person Test, Mike had the guts too, how about you?  As far as "confession", I only need to ask the Lord Jesus for forgiveness, not a priest.  I could ask my parents though, that certainly wouldn't hurt.

Last thought, did you notice that God said to honour thy Father and Mother, not my Father and his husband???

Blessings
ernie

Mike's Question: Commandment "4"

Mike asks;
4. Keep the Sabbath holy. So if you do anything after you leave church, aren't you violating this one too? I don't see how watching a violent football game, going to a rodeo, seeing a car race (and waiting for the exciting crash) is keeping the intent of this one.

What does the Word say;

Exodus 20:8-11 NKJV
(8) "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
(9) Six days you shall labor and do all your work,
(10) but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates.
(11) For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.

I couldn't wait to get to this one!  This is so misunderstood by Christians let alone the world, and also used by "Cult" Christians (in other words they are not Christians) to justify a "work righteousness" religion.  Probably won't tackle that this time though.

What is the Sabbath day?  The Sabbath is the seventh day of the week (Saturday not Sunday), on which we are suppose to "rest", in remembrance that God created the universe (with speech) in six days and then “rested” on the seventh day.  However, the meaning of the Sabbath day rest has been confused.  Some also use the Sabbath day as a day of worship - nothing wrong with this but it is not commanded.

Looking at the above scriptures, lets work backwards; (V11)  God "rested" - was He tired?  Of course not, God created the Sabbath for man - a day of rest for man.  

Mar 2:27-28 NLT

(27) Then Jesus said to them, "The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.

(28) So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!"

Many people work everyday, some to get ahead, others to make ends meet.  We all need rest and not just physical rest.  (V10) God is also telling us that our employees and working animals, even strangers also need rest.  In other words - WE ALL NEED REST!  The word "rest" not only means to desist from exertion but, to celebrate, get rid of, put away, be still and to lack nothing.  (V9) God gives us the work schedule for the week.  (V8) "Remember" and "holy"?  Remember what God has done for us and what He wants for us.  Holy means to dedicate or consecrate this day for rest.

Jesus didn't come to get rid of "The Law" (Commandments) but to fulfill The Law.

Mat 5:17 NKJV

(17) "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.

Mat 11:28-30 NLT

(28) Then Jesus said, "Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.

(29) Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

(30) For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."

Bottom line;  Jesus is the fulfillment of "The Law", so now rest is not found in a day (Sabbath) but in a person - The Christ!  As a result we have "rest" (or should have it) every day.  God is our rest!  As far as "doing" anything after church - thats on Sunday, not the Sabbath.  Besides I would rather rest in The Lord than on a day - any day of the week - no pun intended - really, it wasn't me?

Do you need rest?

Blessings

ernie

Back to Mike's Questions: Commandment Number "3"

Let us get started.  Mike asks;

3. Do not misuse the name of god. Again, pretty cut and dry and I would guess this one is generally followed.

I would disagree that this one is cut and dry and I believe it is not generally followed at all since you can swear using God's name on National Television everyday.

Exodus 20:7 NKJV

"You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.

This is more than using His name as a swear word, it is about Ambassadorship.   To use God's name in such a way as to bring disgrace, shame or dishonor (not just as a swear word) upon His character or deeds was to irreverently misuse His Holy name.  In other words, if I am "called by His name" (one of His, a child of The King, A Christian) and I not only speak like I am of the world but act like it also - then I am using God's name in vain.  Sadly, I do this more often than I realize and it is people like me that Mike sees not being what I say I represent, that sickens him and supports Mike's standing that Christians are fake, two faced and hypocrites!  The only answer I can give is that I really don't want to be a hypocrite, even when I am.  I can at least be forgiven for my poor behavior and example.

Now Mike has not said this to me, but I have heard it from others; I don't want to go to church with a bunch of hypocrites.  My response is; I would rather go to church with some hypocrites than go to hell with the rest of them!

Lastly on this issue, I find it interesting that people are not swearing using my name or Mike's name? Why is that?  Probably because there is no power in either of our names.  We didn't leave Heaven to become part of His creation so He could pay the sin debt on our behalf.   Jesus wrote us into His will, then died so that the will would be in force.  Then He rose again that He might become our heavenly advocate to make sure the terms of the will were correctly followed!  He is our Executor! (khouse.org)

Blessings
ernie

Mike's Question Commandment "2"

Mike asks;
2. Do not make any idols. Well for Catholics that wear a cross around their necks, isn't that the definition of an idol? I know what it represents, but isn't this still a violation? What makes it different?

OK, this question is a little easier to answer than the last and will be much shorter - everyone including Mike said; AMEN To Shorter Blogs!!!  There is however a "read into it" question I will answer also, just in case Mike or anybody else was thinking it.

Lets take a look at the Second Commandment along with the First;

Deu 5:6-10 AMP
(6)  I am the Lord your God, Who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.
(7)  You shall have no other gods before Me or besides Me.
(8)  You shall not make for yourself [to worship] a graven image or any likeness of anything that is in the heavens above or that is in the earth beneath or that is in the water under the earth.
(9)  You shall not bow down to them or serve them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me,
(10)  And showing mercy and steadfast love to thousands and to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments.

The Mosaic Law is built upon the Ten Commandments, and the law was built upon the first commandment in verses 6 & 7.  The first four commandments tell us how to properly worship the One True God (which we discussed last time).  Verses 8-10 are the Second Commandment.  Here we see not only God’s prohibition against idolatry, but His reasons for that prohibition.  It was the Lord God who had and still has the power to bring His people (whom ever they are) out of bondage (wherever they are) in Egypt.  He alone cared enough for them to choose them (and you) to be His own, and He alone delivered and protected them (as He desires to do for you).  For all this, He declares that He alone deserves to be worshipped and reverenced.  Isaiah 44:18 (paraphrased) Idols are powerless, blind, deaf and dumb.

OK, we have defined the commandment, now Mike specifically asks about "Catholics" and "crosses worn around the neck".  The Catholics will be part of the "read into it" question for later, however the cross necklaces we will do first.  The dictionary defines "idol" as; "an image or representation of a god used as an object of worship."  Are these crosses worn around the neck idols?  Quite possibly yes, however, some are worn either as just jewelry (sad) or paraded to mock Christians.  I personally believe most are worn as a "symbol" of the persons Faith in Christ Jesus.  A symbol is not the same as an idol.  If you are wearing a wedding ring, that is a symbol of your bond with your spouse - not idolatry.  The dictionary defines "symbol" as; "a thing that represents or stands for something else."  In the context of what we just wrote about, the wearing of a cross as a symbol would not make it an idol nor a violation.  What makes it different is the intent of the wearer.

The "read into it" question is about Catholics.  Mike, if I am reading into it to much, forgive me.  I won't go deep or long here.  We must always be careful not to interchange people (Catholics) with either religions (Catholicism, Mormonism, Jehovah Witnesses) or denominations (Baptist, Lutheran, AOG, COG, and so on).  Without going to far, I think we both (Mike & Ernie) would agree most people are extremely ignorant of their Faith and Beliefs, which makes for terrible witness for Christ and His Kingdom and creates much confusion for unbelievers looking at us.  Further, lumping all people into groups (although convenient) including "religious" groups (that word turns my stomach) can be considered prejudice.  In other words, not all Blacks are..... just as not all Catholics are.....  See what I mean?  Finally, there is a difference between religion(s) and denominations - that is for another study.

Blessings Brother Mike

ernie