Faith and Family Man

Truth

2011-04-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

"There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death."

- Proverbs 14:12 (NLT)

This seems to be an extreme case of moral relativism, but relativism is now woven into the fabric of our society. There is no way to deny that. We live with terms like....that's your truth, or it doesn't matter what you believe as long as your sincere. Ethics and right vs. wrong are being probed and questioned all the time.

This young man seems to know what he ought to do, but then cannot admit that there is objective truth. He cannot admit that there is a clear plain view of a right and wrong that we all believe. He can tell you he'd fight against all types of evil, but won't tell you why, nor admit that evil exist, let alone right or wrong. Yet how does anyone know evil or good exist? Was it placed in us to know?

How do we know that protecting innocent people is a worthy thing? How do we know that "love is superior to hate?" Why do we treat the sick? Why do we send aid to foreign countries when disaster strikes? Why do we know that criminals deserve appropriate justice? Why do we know what injustice is? Why do we want to stand up for those who can't? Why is it we hear stories of ordinary people who come to the extraordinary rescue of others? Why do governments rescue people when disasters strike? What makes us celebrate a new life, an old life? Why do we mourn in death? Why do we know the good things? What makes us thankful for what we have? Why do we want to avoid bad things or suffering? Why do we strive for a standard of right? Why do we believe in rights? Why freedom? Why do we spill our blood for liberty?

We can claim that there aren't any absolutes , yet we stand up for absolutes all the time! The Bible says that we have God's law on our hearts, even if we've never specifically heard it before. We still act in a way that represents God's standards (or law) much of the time. We seem to still have a remembrance of the type of life God wants us to live. Even if in pride or stubbornness we can't admit it.

So one might ask why aren't we getting it right? Why after all this time that mankind has been around are there still horrible wars, genocide, tragedies, disease, racism, rape, abuse etc. Why can't we live up to what we know is right? A few years ago I read about a homeless man who was stabbed coming to the aid of a woman who was getting mugged. This man eventually died because no one would help him, people just walked by him, some took pictures of him on their cell phone. How does that happen? Don't you agree that no one coming to this man's aid was wrong? Why?

I guess the over simple answer is we can get it right without knowing God. Even those who know God can't get it right all the time. So without God dwelling in the hearts of people we can never get it right. The world at large in a very real sense is an enemy against what God wants. We are stubbornly hostile to His will.

Mankind has a sinful nature, essentially the word "sin" means to "miss the mark." We miss the target completely of what God wants for us, the human race, the only creation made in his image. In our human nature we try to make right what isn't right. We suppress the truth of God by the wrong ways we live. Any recovering addict can tell you about justifying and reasoning with themselves for the wrong things they might have done when entangled in addiction. On a large scale humanity is just like that. (Romans 5 is a great reference for how we got this nature)

We seem to know full well the full good we ought to do, but don't do it. But because of our nature we are addicted to pride, selfishness, our own ways. Without God we are sheep without a shepherd. Be it the addict in the slums or the Warren Buffets of the world in the high hills. Be it the witch doctor in Africa, or the slick televangelist with the great suit. We have an aim but we fall short of accuracy upon the target.

Romans 2:14-15 (HCSB)

¹⁴ So, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, instinctively do what the law demands, they are a law to themselves even though they do not have the law. ¹⁵ They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts. Their consciences testify in support of this, and their competing thoughts either accuse or excuse them

Romans 8:7-8 (NIV)

⁷ the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. ⁸ Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.

Ecclesiastes 7:29 (NIV)

"This only have I found: God made mankind upright, but men have gone in search of many schemes."

Okay so we know man's default, our nature. We've got a divine spark placed within us to "reach out" and attempt to feel for God. (Acts 17) However....just like a magnet can mess up how a compass works, our nature distorts what we ought to know. We can't get due north without the specific knowledge of Christ. It's why ancient religions worshiped the sun as god ( a created thing) and not it's Creator. It's why our ancestors tried to atone for sin or tried to appease a god by sacrificing animals or human beings. It's why in our day and age we know there is a road to a god but then settle for "all ways" lead to that god, divine light, or whatever we allow ourselves to name it. Essentially making a god in our likeness rather than acknowledging that there was a God who made us in his likeness. With his imprint (Genesis 1:27) We are built with a thirst for truth, to know who put this spark in us, and that knowledge can't come from ourselves.

This is the truth mankind either has to accept or reject.....

Jesus said...." I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one can come to the Father except through me." - John 14:6

Mankind without God was roaming in the dark. Accepting it and liking it. Without God even still today we roam in the dark thinking of different shades of dark as if it were the light. We are glad that we aren't a murderer, rapist or criminal , but in the eyes of a Holy (set apart) God does that discount our own sin?

God sent his own son Jesus (God incarnate) to expose us to the light of himself. To buy us back from where our sins had taken us and give us right standing with God again. Our sins from the time of Adam and Eve had separated us from a right standing with God. We tried to reach out for God in other ways knowing something was out there and it expected something from us but we couldn't reach God in full. In our modern day we still try to reach a god through spirituality, new ageism, philosophy, science, humanism which deifies man etc. We still try to please a god by living a loving life, paying our taxes, giving sometimes to charity, etc. Thinking a moral life of our own truths will be the ticket to heaven if there is a god.

God's ticket simply isn't a boarding pass into heaven, or a get of hell free card.....but rather it is an adoption into his family, a changed heart, and a new nature, a new hope.....any judgement that God had against man is gone through Christ....(Romans 8:1-2) it is now a person who stands condemned already for loving their darkness rather than believing in Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross for all mankind. (John 3:16-21)

God has placed in us all a pull towards him. We all have a universal sense of truth. The problem is that we all fall short. (Romans 3:23) But God's truth " can be clearly seen" at the end of our life excuses won't matter.(Rom 1:20)

I'd just start encouraging you to start asking questions. You we're created to know him, your spirit wouldn't look for it's worth in this world if that wasn't the case. It to me is just genuinely a matter of what you are placing your faith in. The false hopes or the ANSWER of hopes. If you look into Jesus you'll have to determine one of three things.... that he was either a "liar, lunatic, or Lord." If he is Lord, then He is the completion of the truth(s) that already exist in your soul. The capstone to complete all truth.

Church is not a country club - Lent Day 16

2011-03-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

Just to add AGAIN there are no prerequisites for God's love. To often the followers of Jesus, myself included, have added preconditions on just who is "lovable" and who isn't. Christ didn't....he sat, ate, had fellowship with people in broken places. ( prostitutes, tax collectors, etc) Why don't we...believers....the "salt and light" follow suit?

To often churches have a country club mentality. Lately I've been convicted on this. If you're a christian and reading this how many non-believing friends do you have? Are you investing your relational time solely in like minded people? Are you shying away from people because they're rough around the edges, hardened, or deemed not worth it? Because they don't believe like you? They may ask you questions and probe into your faith?

Sometimes the church is a place where you have to appear a certain way, pretend like you're perfect, and admit to no failures. You just can't come as you are. If you do there are plenty of people who will "clean you up. " Obviously a church should be where God's truth is upheld, preached, and taught.... but to often it seems like the people in church are worried about absorbing people into church culture rather than letting God change the hearts of people.

It's my growing aim to love anyone for where they are at and let God do the rest. This is not an easy task in my life. I do believe my faith in Christ to be a saving one, I also believe it's not me who saves them but the Grace of God through Christ. That same grace gives the repentant heart a new nature. In the end it's up to the individual to decide to take His grace or not. However I am still commanded to love regardless if a person accepts it or not. I am equally still commanded to not be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, even at the risk of not being liked.

Matthew 5:46-48 (NLT)

46 If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47 If you are kind only to your friends,
how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that.

Romans 1:16 (NIV)
16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

In line for the March of the Unqualified - Lent Day 14

2011-03-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

In a big way I feel unqualified to serve God. I sin, struggle, fall short. I am my own worst critic on just about everything. I doubt and get pessimistic. I am a really hard learner. I have trouble paying attention. I am not a great speaker. I struggle with constructive criticism, I sometimes fail to practice what I preach. I get depressed. I've got "thorns in my side" that seem to never leave. The list could go on, hopefully you get my point.....I don't feel qualified to be loved by God, to serve Him, and tell others about Him.

I am reminded of some of these passages below, they are written by Paul who is the primary author of the New Testament letters.....if he struggled...no doubt I will. Yet his struggles and unqualified feelings didn't stop him from being used in a mighty way by God. It is not the purity of the messenger, but the purity of the message.....The Gospel. So in regards to following and serving the Christian life isn't about being perfect, you don't have to become qualified before serving him, it's about following the perfect Christ even in our weaknesses.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV)

⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 3:5 (NLT)

⁵ It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God.

Romans 7:21-25 (New International Version)

²¹ So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. ²² For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; ²³ but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. ²⁴ What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? ²⁵ Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!

So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.

Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

² Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

*Hebrews not written by Paul, unknown author

Blessings and Trials- Lent Day 12

2011-03-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

This last year especially I've seen many people suffer around me. Suffering like I've never suffered before. Incurable diseases, loss of children, loss of a spouse, people losing jobs, etc. I've admired how many around me who are suffering cling to their faith in Christ. I think it is safe to say storms in life have a way of erasing or refining faith.

I don't know what my life holds, but I can say I know it won't be pain free, it's not always gonna be easy. There will be a day where my faith will have to face a really hard test. It may be sickness, a loss, unemployment, etc.

I can fully expect not to react perfectly in any storm, (nor will I ever claim that, I react so imperfect on a normal day let alone a time of trial) but I think its important at least for me to make a pre-decison to cling to my faith before the hard times come. I am reminded of a few verses.......that at least to me tell me to expect storms and to have a genuine and practiced faith before they come. I know we can't prepare for what the elements bring ..... earthquakes, rains, and winds can be so devastating..... I guess I just believe if I live my faith now, it will be something to cling to when/if everything else is in shambles. A foundation among the rubble. This is what I believe I have witnessed in those around me who've had such trials this last year. Thanks for reading.

Proverbs 10:25 (NLT)

"When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the godly have a lasting foundation."

Matthew 7:24-29 (NIV'84)

The Wise and Foolish Builders 24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

28 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, 29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law

1 Peter 4:1

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin

'Spartan' - Lent Day 11

2011-03-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

This song really resonates how I feel today. It's one of my favorite songs, from my favorite albums, from my favorite band. If that makes sense? Five Iron Frenzy!The lyrics that really get me today are this........"he said love endures all things and it hurts to think its true, if I mark a span of failure is his burden just as light?"

1 Corinthians 13:7 (ESV)
7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)
28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

It's a guess those lyrics were inspired by the above mentioned two Bible verses.I don't want to expand my thoughts to broadly today..... but I am really thinking....man if you love someone you endure for their sake. You drive on. You display patience, kindness, and "speak the truth in love."

I genuinely feel my love for others is being tested. My own sensitivities are being challenged and in regards to caring for people my flesh and spirit are locked in combat.What if I do fail? In the confines of a direction or choice? Will my failures reflect Christ, will they prove Him to be true to his word? That his burdens are light in comparison to what I could ever carry. Will they be light in my failures as well? Will I be failing at all?

I know one thing right now, I never want to close my heart off. I never want to be someone who just folds there arms and says I don't want to play anymore. I want to be a person that can endure. Believe me I can be just as fickle or fair weather as anyone, shame on me if I ever succumb to that.To others I want to display a genuine love despite my circumstances and feelings. Just like Paul did as displayed in the verses below.

2 Corinthians 6:3-6 (NLT)
Paul’s Hardships

3 We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. 4 In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. 5 We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food. 6 We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.

The Gap of Eternity- Lent Day 10

2011-03-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV)

11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

To be cliche....I agree with the statement that there is a God shaped hole in all of us. Mankind is restlessly searching for completion or fulfillment. We chase many things to try to fill the gap. We chase relationships, more things, a better job, the collection of stuff, hobbies, sex, pleasure, education, social status, religion etc. Only to find those pursuits futile or hopeless. Think about it we often think to ourselves....when I get to this point then I'll be set, when I just reach this milestone I'll be happy, when I get this degree or this job then my life will be complete. To me at the end of those things we start searching for a new mission to fulfill us so we can again be "set."

Now don't get me wrong many of those things are good. In my view many of the above mentioned are gifts from God. We ( myself included) just tend to reverse the order. Thinking things will be our joy, rather than knowing God and having him as our joy first.

To sum it up I'll borrow from something I read today. "Just as a square peg cannot fill a round hole, neither can the “God-shaped hole” inside each of us be filled by anyone or anything other than God. Only through a personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ can the “God-shaped hole” be filled and the desire for eternity fulfilled." Thanks for reading.

30 Days to Live - Larry's Story - Lent Day 8

2011-03-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

Don't have much to say other than the below scriptures. Lately I've seen people suffer just like this man. While this reminds to me to wisely invest in my relationship with my wife, children, and forget the meaningless things that I so often chase after. Above all it reminds not to forget God as a young man, as to build a lasting foundation that when not leave me when the bad days come. I'd encourage y'all to read the passages below, to choose to live wisely, and that wisdom I strongly believe begins and ends with knowing the Lord. Thanks for reading.

Psalm 39:4 (King James Version)4LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am.

Psalm 139:16 (New International Version)16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

Ecclesiastes 12
1 Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them”— 2 before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars grow dark, and the clouds return after the rain; 3 when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men stoop, when the grinders cease because they are few, and those looking through the windows grow dim; 4 when the doors to the street are closed and the sound of grinding fades; when men rise up at the sound of birds, but all their songs grow faint; 5 when men are afraid of heights and of dangers in the streets; when the almond tree blossoms and the grasshopper drags himself along and desire no longer is stirred. Then man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets.
6 Remember him—before the silver cord is severed, or the golden bowl is broken; before the pitcher is shattered at the spring, or the wheel broken at the well, 7 and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.
8 “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher.[a] “Everything is meaningless!”
The Conclusion of the Matter 9 Not only was the Teacher wise, but also he imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. 10 The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true.
11 The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one Shepherd. 12 Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.
Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.
13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.

Judged - Lent Day 7

2011-03-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

You know one wrong judgement against someone else can change the whole course of their life. That's what happened in this video clip. If you have a story you'd like to share regarding how someone has judged you feel free to share. How did it alter your life?

I am a firm believer that the hurting and confused don't need our condemnation. I think any of us that have ever being hurting, confused or just in a bad spot feel the gravity of our situation anyway. Pointing a finger, denying someone, or judging as if we are "better" only builds spite, mistrust, and weighs heavily on the heart. Imagine if we ( I speak to Christians on this the most) offered grace? A hug, a cup of coffee and conversation, respect for the doubter, praying with someone, a listening ear, or an invitation to hang out etc. It would go a long long way. Showing grace always does.

I haven't always demostrated this idea. As I grow in my faith I am more aware that I have no choice but to practice this. Even if I will never be perfect at it. If I can leave you with a thought......God loved us first, no pre-requirements. Christians should follow suit.

1 John 4:9-10 (NLT)

9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.

Do I Love Gay People? Lent Day 6

2011-03-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

As a Christian I have to answer this question.....Do I love gay people?

My answer is Yes.

My main point in writing this will be to define what the Bible says about homosexuality. I will not be preaching or lecturing anyone who is a homosexual or who agrees with homosexuality. I am simply showing what the Bible has to say.

My second point will be how I .....as a Christian respond to a homosexual. Plus the wrongs and rights in how the church at wide has treated homosexuals.First let me say that I am not going to point out homosexuals as these "supreme sinners" because all of us....are equal in terms of sin.

Romans 3:23 (NLT)

23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

Let me be very clear in saying that I unapologetically believe the Bible and it's standards on what homosexuality is. What does the Bible have to say about it as far as it being a sin? I'll comment more after each verse is read.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (NLT)

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.
11Some 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.

Scripture is pretty clear that Homosexuality is sin ( along with many other things mentioned in the above passage) but it's also clear that scripture says one can change! Not just from a sexual lifestyle but from sin's grip all together through Christ.

Romans 1:26-27 (NIV)

26Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.

The above verses do not leave it open to suggestion that the Bible says the homosexual lifestyle is not natural. Romans 1 essentially talks about how mankind can plainly see God's qualities, order, and truths but along the way we in the futility of our thinking exchanged God's truth for lies. Paul mentions homosexuality in this chapter because it just is genuinely clear how this doesn't fit naturally for God's creation. Don't get me wrong all sin, which we all do, is not what creation was intended for either. Essentially sin means "missing the mark."

2. How do I as a Christian respond to a person who is homosexual.Well I first ask what would the Bible or Jesus have me do?

Matthew 7:12-13 (NIV)

12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Christians haven't always lived up to this standard. Especially in the face of politics and "culture wars." Some have ungraciously forgotten RESPECT.

Matthew 5:46-48 (NIV)

If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

I have to admit I am really good at loving those like minded with me. While I am imperfect at it I strive to love others who aren't like me even if I disagree with them.

Philippians 4:5 (NIV)

5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

It doesn't say ....let your gentleness be evident to some, or to those who agree w/ you......but to ALL.

Ephesians 4:15 (NLT)

15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

As Christians we do have standards , anyone who knows me knows I stand up for what I believe.However there is a way to present Biblical truths and values.....which often disagree with the secular culture......in grace and love. To often those in the church at large forgets to do that.

3. How the church responds to homosexuality.

1 - Extreme hatred - Fred Phelps leads a congregation in Topeka. He and his band of followers go around the country protesting various things with signs that say "God hates fags", "God Damn America" etc etc. Because of him those that follow the true Gospel of Christ have to explain themselves, the media coverage he gets doesn't help us either. My take on Phelps....he isn't following anything close to what I know is Biblical, he seems very self righteous, and I personally think he will not be in heaven one day. Not just because his life devoted to hate, but his life void of Jesus Christ.

2 - Balanced approach - Augustine I believed coined the phrase " Love the sinner and hate the sin." Many or most churches I think strive for this. Loving homosexuals but not accepting the lifestyle. Homosexuals are human, they have feelings, genuine hurts and cares, as Jesus was friends with many whom the "religious" deemed not worthy (IE. prostitutes, tax collectors, drunkards, the poor,etc). We who are his followers should follow that example. That doesn't mean we dilute the truth of the Gospel and its saving message, Jesus told the plain truth that sinners (all of us) needed Him, but we love others as he did in genuine love.

3 - Siding on the error of grace or totally denying the Bible.

Many liberal denominations have openly embraced homosexuality and ignored anything the Bible has to say on the issue. Anglicans, Episcopals, a branch of Lutheran, and some in the United Methodist Church.

To me that's as equally wrong as # 1. If you look at the above examples in scripture again 1 and 3 aren't right. Genuine love doesn't refuse to tell the truth about sin. If my best friend in the world came up to me telling me he was going to rob a bank because it would benefit him financially you'd better believe I'd warn him how that wasn't good for him. ( No I am not comparing gays with bank robbers, just sin with sin) Or if he came up to me telling me how he still loved his wife but he was going to have an affair you'd better believe I'd warn him just how wrong that was and how the consequences could be devastating.

Thank you for reading. I hope I approached this with gentleness and respect. This is an aspect of faith and a pretty divisive issue in our culture. Again my point was to present the biblical case for its view on homosexuality, but also a biblical case for how homosexuals should be treated. Again I don't zero in on them as these super sinners, but I zero in on the topic because it's a big one in our day and Christians cannot avoid it. Thanks for reading.

* In upcoming blogs I'll address some things politically and culturally but this was not the blog for it.

Cosmogony - Origin of the Universe - Lent Day 3

2011-03-11T07:17:00.000-08:00

Genesis 1:1 " In the begining God created the heavens and the earth."

The basis for our worldview starts with the with our beliefs on the very origins of the universe, earth, and life itself. Randall Niles puts it best...."something did it, or it did itself."

There was either an intention in all that we see in this life and a Creator to be aknowledged which gives us genuine purpose, meaning, and value. Or we have to accept that nothing made us from nothing. Life has no value and no purpose. How we believe this effects the entire course of our lives.

"Something to think about."
- Randall Niles

"You are worthy, Our Lord and God, to recieve glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." -Revelation 4:11

JW's At My Door - Lent Day 2 - authentic faith

2011-03-10T04:16:00.000-08:00

This world doesn't need canned answers, scripted responses, or a prideful mentality from Christians. This world needs Christians to be authentic, willing to make friends rather than seek trophies. Christians who live their faith unaplogetically not only in truth, but in grace towards others as well. I can't say I haven't always met this ideal, but the deeper I get in my walk, the more of a desire I have to live an authentic faith in Christ.

Colossians 4:6-7 ( NLT)

" Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone."

Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven."

Jesus Wants the Rose, Lent Day 1

2011-03-09T04:24:00.000-08:00

Jesus doesn't desire our perfection. He doesn't demand that we "get right" or "cleaned up" before we ever take a look at Him. Jesus loves us if we are washed up, burnt out, wore down, simply confused, addicted, afflicted, or just in a habit of making mistakes, big or small.

He didn't come for those who think they have it all together. He came for those who knew they didn't.

I started believing in Christ at the age 15. At that time I was in Juvenile Detention, very angry, a failing student, a drug user and very confused. At the same time coming to Him doesn't have to be this dramatic thing, it could be a person realized they had a hole in their heart that only He could fill.

Below is a statement Jesus made a long time ago for those to come to Him. The thing I love about this is there are no prerequisites in coming to Jesus. Or at the very least taking a look at Jesus. Wherever you are in life high or low .......Jesus wants you."Something to think about."

Matthew 11:28-30 (New Living Translation)

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

*I am revising and re-posting some old blogs from last years Lent. I'll have some new blogs intertwined in this as well. I don't participate in Lent like my Catholic and Lutheran siblings, but I like to use it as a time to reflect and share my faith on my blog in solidarity.

Encouraging Unity Among the Educational "Camps"

2011-02-03T04:48:00.000-08:00

Joshua Harris is quickly becoming one of my favorite pastors to learn from. I couldn't agree more with what he says in this video regarding the educational choice Christian parents make.

Extra Grace People

2011-01-25T06:50:00.000-08:00

"If we were faultless we should not be so much annoyed by the defects of those with whom we associate."

Author: Francois Fenelon

Extra Grace People are everywhere. Shoot at times we ourselves may be one of them. We all have our moments. You know who they are right? Here's a list....feel free to add if you want....

1. The people who talk to loud.

2. The folks that talk so fast that even when they take a breath they refuse to let you in the conversation.

3. The "know it all", the master generalist willing to add his 2cents into everything.

4. The person who forgets body space.

5. The one who laughs so much or so loud its uncomfortable.

6. A person who brags about anything and everything.

7. The "activist" who lectures you if you don't recycle or "eat organic tofu."

8. The person that doesn't get the hint that you need to be left alone so you can work. Or that your jingling your keys because you really do have to go.

9. A person who tells the most awkward of jokes at the most awkward of times.

10. The overly sensitive types.

11. "The real men of genius."

12. The passive agressive folks.

The list could go on....

These people demand extra grace. At least that's the challenge of being a Christian and interacting with people. Doesn't mean we don't have boundaries , but who are we to deny the "annoying." Did God deny us because we are annoying to Him?

Believe me I struggle with annoying people, that's why I am writing this. I try to avoid the path of an annoying person. I try to exclude them, or find a way to quickly shut a conversation off. Sometimes you have to, but other times how good would it be for us to show grace?To actually invest in those we deem "annoying."

Not saying we need to best friends with all people, but next time you are tempted to ignore someone on purpose, or leave someone out I'd just challenge you to step out of your comfort zone and reach out to the "annoying."Be it a work lunch break, not excluding the person from the "in crowd," asking how are you doing, etc. Food for thought.

James 2:1 (NIV)

¹ My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism

The Choice of Gossip

2011-01-22T08:49:00.000-08:00

"Whoever gossips to you will gossip of you." - unknown

"Gossip often veils itself in acceptable conventions such as "Have you heard..." or "Did you know...?" or "They tell me..." or "Keep this to yourself, but..." or "I do not believe it is true, but I heard that..." or "I wouldn't tell you, except that I know it will go no further." Of course, the most infamous such rationalization in Christian circles is, "I am telling you this so you can pray."- R. Kent Hughes

Again another thing I've been guilty of in the past, often with "good intentions." I have been the gossiper and the one gossiped about. The first is just a sense of pride which really is all about justifying how much "better" you are, the second just really hurts once you find out. I think to myself how much more respectable to go to the person you've assumed something about, rather than tell others what they may or may not be guilty of. How much better to conceal a matter until you can address with with a person who has actually wronged you for sure. While gossip seems innocent enough it eventually turns into slander.

I am encouraged lately to be a man that goes directly to someone, to speak the truth in love, and to find out the truth in a matter. Likewise be willing to listen if I've offended someone knowingly or unknowningly and admit to my faults or explain my sincereness about knowing or not knowing. I'd encourage my readers to do the same. How much more power and peace in an approach that avoids gossip by honoring the other person.

Proverbs 26:20 (HCSB)

20 Without wood, fire goes out; without a gossip, conflict dies down.

Proverbs 17:9 (HCSB)

9 Whoever conceals an offense promotes love, but whoever gossips about it separates friends.

Really good video by Mark Driscoll titled "Don't shoot at other Christians" , really applies to life in general, what happens when we assume and dine on gossip with others.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdmJVL_-hzM

Proverbs 18:8 (NLT)
8 Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.

Leaving the NIV?

2011-01-18T11:50:00.000-08:00

As of now I am fairly certain I'll be leaving the NIV as a my primary translation for reading and studying. The NIV (84) is truly an awesome version making the best of thought and word style translation. I am not a fan of the new 2011 revision of the NIV so I am looking into a "new" number one for my studying.

For a long time I've been reading the NIV. In terms of accuracy and understanding the meaning I think its top notch.

So leading candidates are.....

1. New Living Translation - a freer thought for thought version. I've been reading this as well for a couple years now as a strong supplement text and I really like it for the most part.

2. Holman Christian Standard Bible - an "optimal translation" striving for balance, but really resembles a word for word translation more so. A lot of people leaving the NIV are switching to this translation.

3. New King James Version - which is a word for word translation.

Ones I've essentially ruled out... ( althought I have a lot of likes about them)

1. KJV- I love this translation but I am just not prone to liking 400 year old English as a whole.

2. ESV - I think this is a healthy translation but its very rigid and archaic in language useage and structure. Not to mention I don't like the ESV only crowd, reminds me to much of the KJV only crowd. Some of my favorite teachers use this. (Driscoll, Piper etc)

3. NASB - another very healthy word for word, said to be the most accurate in terms of language of all the English translations. This is even more rigid than the ESV. In my studying of translations word for word doesn't always mean most accurate in terms of meaning.

I hate to leave the NIV, but I think it's just the right thing to do right now.

Santa at our house

2010-12-28T19:05:00.000-08:00

(updated)

To put it my wife's way " Santa isn't a big deal at our house."

This is what I teach my daughter (and my boy when he's old enough) to which she replies....

Me : Selah why do we give and get presents on Christmas?

Her reply " For Jesus' Birthday."

Me: Yes! God gave us the greatest gift when he gave Jesus, so we give gifts remembering His gift to us.

My daughter is now 4, so Santa comes up this time of year, we see him all over the place. We just teach her that Santa is pretend, that he's not real. That's really about it. We don't teach that he's wrong for families to promote, or for parents to tell their children about. We aren't anti-Santa parents. We just don't make him apart of our tradition.

We just think it's a neat thing for our kids to know that they get presents from mom and dad. That when they get presents from grand-parents they know its from them. At a very young age they can with prompting express thanks to them for their gifts. It's my higher aim to teach them to give thanks for the gift of Jesus. That God gave us the gift not because we were good, but because he loved us even when we were sinful.

Don't get me wrong I am not a stoic. All the excitement of the holidays dwells in our home too. The baking of cookies, the Christmas trees, the stockings, the knowledge that presents are coming to enjoy, Christmas music playing, etc. We even have a few Santa things. My kids got some wonderful Santa jamies from their grandparents last year! We love'em. Its not confusing for our kiddo's if they know the truth. The image of Santa which represents giving isn't harmful to children whatsoever. We just choose to not to really incorporate Santa in our home. My wife and I were both raised to believe in Santa, we weren't harmed by it, my wife does have a funny story of when she realized Santa wasn't real. That's not for me to tell.

Our aim isn't to avoid Santa because of possible hurt feelings when the magic of childhood belief wears off for our kids. Our aim is to express the truth of Christ during Christmas, that none of our Christmas traditions matter without Jesus. We try to keep Chirst the center of all seasons in our home.Many good families who incorperate Santa do also strive for the same goal. I also understand some good families would disagree with me all together on the Santa issue, that's perfectly okay, not here to knock your convictions, just expressing mine. Thanks for reading and have a Merry Christmas!

Wedding Ring

2010-12-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Sometimes during the bedtime routine with my daughter she'll want to see my wedding ring. Putting my ring on all her fingers and looking intently at it. Since she was very little and able to communicate I've always told her "this ring means daddy will love mommy forever."

Now at 3 years old at any given time when she see's it I can ask Selah what daddy's ring means. She replies...."Daddy love mommy forever." Then I'll ask her what does mommy's ring mean, she replies..." mommy love daddy forever."

I want my daughter ( and son) to know that daddy's commitment to mommy isn't fickle. That daddy loves mommy. It is my intent to give my daughter a sense of security in knowing that her daddy loves mommy. If she knows that, she'll know that daddy loves her.

I can't ever claim to be perfect father. I mess up a lot. However I do firmly believe a father can set the tone for their children in how we live our lives, loves our wives, and love our children. I think it's self evident that a father can either really bless his children or leave them with horribly wounded hearts.

So next time your daughter or son is curious about your wedding ring.....let'em know what it means to you.

"The righteous man walks in his integrity, blessed are his children after him." - Proverbs 20:7 (NKJV)

Burning the Koran?

2010-09-08T18:31:00.000-07:00

A group of Christians in Florida wants to burn piles of Korans and I have to ask why? What's it going to do except provoke violence in the Muslim world?

I am reminded of this Bible verse....

Romans 12:18 (NIV)
18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

I know these Christians mean well. I know they are really sending out a message to the many radicals in the Islamic world. However I think choosing to have a prayer service for them would be much more powerful, burning their Koran's won't serve any purpose except to ignite anger. Why not fervantly pray for them, ask God that they would one day come to Christ, and why not get involved with a Christian charity ministering and giving in the Islamic world?

Also I think thus far they are showing disregard for our top general in Afghanistan who has asked them not to do this. He firmly believes this will harm our troops and any progress we are making in the Islamic world. Not to mention the missionaries abroad in Islamic countries.

I hope these Christians change their mind. This is not the message we want to send as Christians. Oh don't get me wrong we should defend ourselves and attack when we have to against any terrorist, there is indeed "at time for war," but as Christians we still need to love our enemies and this is not the way to do that. We should "live at peace as much as it depends" on us. Provoking them isn't going to accomplish that.

Romans 12:17-21 (NIV)

17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"says the Lord. 20On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good

False Teacher # 1 - Jon Crowder

2010-09-07T06:53:00.000-07:00

This video speaks for itself. This man is a false teacher and is not from God.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GrmRUtD7LE&feature=related

This dude is "whack!" You know many things are wrong with this man. He claims to be a "mystic," which is nothing new, but he certainly doesn't have sound doctrine, nor does he "test" the spirits. From his fat frier tuck angels whom serve him, his focus on angels, his claim of BEING IN TWO PLACES at once, or embracing God's DRUNKEN GLORY.

Colossians 2:18

Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions.

This is just one verse of many that comes to mind when I hear this false teacher. If you read Colossians it pretty much addresses the issues of mystics and any "secret knowledge" they claim to have.

History and Public School

2010-09-03T08:29:00.000-07:00

Read earlier post and you'll see my wife and I aren't choosing public school upfront. We like our public schools, but sense private school is best for now. One day it's most likely I'll send my kids to public school when they are older.

So when/if my kids go to public school one thing I will be doing is homeschooling them on history. Not because they teach history bad, but because the content is starved of richness. If we go the public school route in later elementary it will mainly be supplementary things in this confines of their history lessons. In middle school it may be history at home all together.

Okay I think I've killed education for a while. Probably won't be blogging about it unless issues come up. I am burnt out. It's been an awesome process looking into this issue and deciding how I will educated my kids.

Homeschool stat number 2, my issue with academics

2010-09-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

It's absolutely clear that homeschool kid's are producing great results. That is something I won't question. The statistic is very true.....

homeschool kids score on average in the 80th percentile
private school kids score on average in the 70th percentile
public school kids score on average in the 50th percentile

I don't question the validity of the above numbers. What I take aim is that you never hear in those studies just how many kids are in the above systems. Which are......

2.5 million kids are involved in some type of homeschool
7 million kids in private school
50 million kids in public school

How can we accurately compare numbers like that in regards to percentiles? Public schools have 50,000,000 million kiddo's. Who come from all sorts of backrounds. From homes of neglect or abuse. To genuinely purposeful and loving homes. With kids who have learning disabilities, special needs, and emotional problems. The control factors are much less. Public schools by law have to take everyone. Private schools can deny or accept whom they want and control population size. Homeschoolers have even more control over the factors. There is no doubt that private or home school systems CAN have an advantage on teacher to student ratio as well.

For example when we compare kids on the same test inside those 3 systems....naturally public school numbers will always be lower.I really want to find a specific study on how students who come from purposeful Christian homes who place a strong emphasis on education do on those same test. To me that would tell me more than generalized comparisons.

Again I am not questioning the results of home or private schooled kids. I am just questioning the validity of how we compare the academic percentiles of students among the 3 systems.

Music Therapy part 2 - "Therapy" by Relient K

2010-08-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

Been thinking about my prayer life. This song just makes me think of just how much I need to pray, get alone with God, and seek time with him in my life. I have a lot on my mind as of late and who better to tell than God???

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4SbZj1tCec

Loneliness and solitude are two things not to get confused 'cause I spend my solitude with you.

Gather all the questions of the things I just can't get straight and I answer them the way I guess you do.

'cause this is my therapy, 'cause you're the only one that's listening to me.

This is my therapy, just call it what it is and what we were with a death grip on this life that's in transition. This is my therapy 'cause you won't hear me out and that makes God the only one who's left here listening.

Homeschool stat # 1 my issue w/ spiritual claims

2010-08-30T05:57:00.000-07:00

First let me be clear....I've been 100% supportive of homeschool in my previous post. To say again I think so highly of that option and this by no means is a rant against homeschool. Kids are so blessed because of it and I'd defend a parents right til I am blue in the face to make that choice. While it's not my choice for now, it's always open for review.

Okay....

Homeschooling blogs and authors ( who are Christians) often use this statistic when advocating for homeschooling. That "75 - 90% of kids lose their faith by the end of their freshmen year in college." Somehow they associate this to the type of schooling a child has gotten. In this case pointing out the folly of sending your kids to public school.

You know I just can't connect the dots inside that conclusion. Studies suggest time and time again that Christian parents are not training their kids in the faith. Parents take their kids to church but that's about it. There isn't spiritual training at home in most Christian homes.......parents aren't opening the Bible with their kids, talking about spiritual matters, training their kids to process things through a Biblical lens, praying with or for their kids, taking head on the myths of the culture ( like evolution, safe sex, tolerance) etc etc etc. That to me speaks volumes and is one of the underlying causes of kids falling away from the faith once they're on their own.

I don't see how schooling has much to do with keeping or losing faith. It's the purposefulness of the parents and the training that has to take place in the home. If we parents fail to do that we should expect to keep losing our young ones. Ultimately though in the end its up to our kids to embrace it or not, but parents are mandated to do everything they can.

There aren't guarantees but Proverbs 22:6 does offer this truistic statement .....

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

The Bible is comfortably silent on school choice. It doesn't say who should teach our kids in the academic arts. It does however command all parents to teach their kids about God, his ways and precepts, God's character, his works and ultimately the salvation of Christ.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (NIV)

⁴ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. ⁵ Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. ⁶ These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. ⁷ Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ⁸ Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. ⁹ Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Ephesians 6:4 (NLT)

⁴ Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

Psalm 78:4-7 (New International Version)

⁴ We will not hide them from their children;
we will tell the next generation
the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD,
his power, and the wonders he has done.

Deuteronomy 11:19 (NLT)

18“So commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. 19Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. 20Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, 21so that as long as the sky remains above the earth, you and your children may flourish in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors.

To me home school or public/private school parents don't hold a spiritual monopoly over the other. Rather our homes have an advantage if we stay true to how the Bible wants us to raise our kids over parents that don't follow God's advice. I would say that the stats between kids that we're raised from strong loving Christian homes are pretty similar when it comes to keeping the faith into young adulthood. Just an educated guess right now because I have yet to find research on that. But general studies do conclude that all kids have a better shot at keeping the faith if they we're taught it at home.

I guess this blog is a response to other bloggers who promote homeschool solely for Christian families. I've heard some pretty bad things......like...."public school is evil" it is the "devil's camp" or it's "prison for kids," or pretty much saying you love your kids less if you send your kids to school. Or the "exodus mandate" which declares it is a sin to send our kids to public school.

A. I think that attitude has killed a witness for Christ.

B. Such a viewpoint is false, seemingly to me being rooted in pride similar to the pharisees. Being in love with a system of man, rather than willingly honoring God with their lives, in this case honoring God in the system of education you use for your kids.

C. Such a view isn't rooted in scripture.

This topic is honestly near and dear to me lately. While we aren't choosing public school upfront for our kids and we aren't choosing to formally homeschool them either, I just have a desire to equip and encourage public school parents. There is a very vocal minority in the homeschool community that slams fellow Christian parents for choosing public school. Why not offer encouragement, listen to concerns, and offer things to equip them? Why limit what God can do in the hearts of their children or in their home? Even in their schools? Aren't we as Christian parents in the same pursuit for raising Godly kids/families? Aren't we in the same fight when it comes to protecting our kids from the toxicities of the world?

Believe me I know there are good and Godly reasons to homeschool your kids. I support your option. I also believe that Christian families can thrive inside the choice of public school as well. All in all the parents have to decide what's best, adjust when necessary, pray and give it all to God. After all God is the beginning of wisdom. (Proverbs 1:7, Psalm 111:10)

These have been my spiritual concerns on the claims of homeschool. Oh I believe homeschool students can and do thrive spiritually in their homes, but it took parents to foster that environment. Just like it takes parents to foster the same thing in homes that don't choose homeschool as the primary way to educate their children. This to me shouldn't even be a divisive issue among parents in the wider church. Thanks for reading.

part of a letter I wrote to a Latter Day Saint friend

2010-08-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

This is a part of a letter I wrote to an old friend of mine who is in the LDS faith. In talking to him I always tried to be very gracious in my speech, as he was to me in a few discussions we had. This is not to bash those in the LDS (or Mormon) faith, but to show the distinction between the LDS and Christian faith. The two are not one and the same. This may be the first in a series of blogs I am planning in comparing Mormonism to Christianity.
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You are well versed in your faith as well. I do remember a conversation you and I had as kids in regards to "Kolob", we talked about it a little bit after you moved to your new room in the basement. I also remember spending the night and asking your dad about what you guys believed. Not to mention I remember when you Dad visited our class to talk about his missionary trip to Denmark. ( I think that is the right country) I say these things because I always recognized in you ( and your family) that religion was important to you guys. It's no wonder you have a strong faith, your parents were very well meaning and purposeful.

We Christians can learn a lot from many LDS families in regards to teaching their faith to their young. I used to work in Independence at a college, there is a huge RLDS population there as you can imagine ( now called Community of Christ). We had a RLDS group use our facilities on Saturday nights, there used to be this boy who would come out and play when he was bored. He was playing with B.O.M. action figures ( nephi and the like) He asked me point blank if I read the BOM, to which I replied I have looked into it but I just read the Bible. He was shocked. Which again is a testimony to the LDS ( and various LDS sects) about how they purposefully teach their young.

There is a whole host of issues I could talk about, but you did ask specifically regarding "grace" so I'll address that. I also address a few other things that have come up in our conversation but won't go into anything else after that.

I know you about grace. That salvation is a gift from God. An undeserved gift. You know that clearly. However from your last email you still have to admit that " in a sense" works is still part of how you view salvation, or of a keeping God's grace. That's where I believe you and I differ. (I know LDS use the title LDS - Christian, for the sake of clarity I'll be using the term Mormon with no disrespect but to show distinction.) That to me is where the Christian scripture the Bible differs from the Mormon Scriptures. ( Book of Mormon, D and C, Pearl, writings of the prophets) Christianity seems to suggest that God's grace is enough, and Mormonism seems to suggest that God's grace is enough only after we've done everything we can do.

It's easy for a Christian to come up to a Mormon and say " well you aren't saved by works" , you yourself know that. That evangelical didn't know how to respond because he's coming at you like you are a non-religious person with no concept of grace yourself. Your faith does teach a concept of grace. So this is my true aim in talking about the subject of grace......I want to show you that after the fact of salvation we don't have to comply with a system of works, rituals, special practices etc. My aim isn't either to "convert" you to the Biblical mode of Christianity. Just to show you the contrast between the Bible and the Mormon Scriptures. Primarily using the Bible only. I will be mentioning a few of the letters of Paul which was really to believers telling them that there are no further requirements for salvation, or after you accepted Christ ( evangelical term = is saved) that Christ fulfilled the requirements.

Paul in Philippians warns us of folks who say that you are saved but here's what you still have to do to be completed. ( reference Philippians 3:2 - 3 ,the issue then was circumcision) Paul essentially is saying the work of Christ on the cross is enough. We can't do anything to surpass that and to think otherwise only takes us back under the law, not grace. ( Galatians 3:10 -11 , Ephesians 2:15) There doesn't seem to be a need for grace to bring a system of works.

There is no need for rituals that make us "better Christians", or for a " your saved after all you can do" type of attitude for the Christian. ( paraphrasing 2nd Nephi 25:23 ) How much more can we do than believe in Jesus the one who paid everything? God's grace is sufficient before and after the fact. It's not that we come to believe and then have to work work work and "then His grace is sufficient for us." ( paraphrasing 2nd Moroni 10:32) There is no cloak or garment we can wear to make us more "righteous" that wearing only the righteousness of Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:30, 2nd Cor 5:21) If we are in Christ what counts in our new creation, and that in Him we bear fruit. ( Galatians 6:15, John 15:5 ) I think its clear in the Bible to add on as system of rituals or works is to tie ourselves back to the law to which Christ fulfilled. ( scripture references Galatians 5:1, Colossians 1:21-22, Romans 4:4-5, Romans 11:6, Galatians 2:19 - 21 ) Paul does warn us that going back to a system of works can ruin our happiness. (Galatians 4: 8 - 15) Even still many are attracted to the idea of works even after a saving faith. ( Colossians 2:23) Not saying specifically this verse refers to Mormons, but it to me refers to the fact that even under saving grace we still try to find a way for earn more grace.

That's where I am coming from (name). You and I believe in many similar concepts, but our scriptures teach very different things. It's hard to communicate because the similarities and the language barrier behind the meaning of our words. Despite our barriers....I'd just ask ( and I have to ask myself this too) it's is possible to be raised on something, believe with a sincere heart, but be sincerely wrong?

On a side note it's kind of funny that we are talking in faith terms, because you believe I have an incomplete gospel and I believe you have an added on one. Anyway....

In terms of revelation, I guess I'd ask in a biblical sense was there really a need for more of it? ( revelation) Wasn't ( as Paul suggest throughout his writings) Christ the mystery that was revealed to us? Christ came down, taught us, rescued us by his death and resurrection and established his church and ordered the great commission. So to me the further revelation was in spreading what was revealed aka the good news to the world. The dual side of that revelation was the word of God itself, it is as Hebrews 4:12 says "living and active." To me what I gather from the Bible, Christ was the completion for what God was planning to reveal to mankind.

I do believe Joseph Smith is sincere, I do think he experienced something supernatural. I don't think he had ill will, but I do firmly believe that he did not "test the spirits. "(1 John 4:1) I also don't think he could of written those things without spiritual guidance. I have already laid out my case biblically for what I believe those angels, or spirits to be. In fact to me Satan and spirits/demons have a primary goal of distorting the gospel. (2nd Corinthians 11:4, Galatians 1:8) these verses were not part of the original letter I wrote.

I mentioned why would there be a need for Christ to "restore" His church when he already said not even the gates of Hades could remove it. Why would Christ send out the great commission and have it spread rapidly, even under great persecution for the first 300 years and then in it's 1,900 year era have to restore it?

( Matthew 16:18, Ephesians 3:3, Hebrews 1:1-4, Colossians 2:2, Romans 16:25-26)

To me the difference in the Bible and Mormons scriptures are so great one would have to conclude that either God changed, or only one view has to be the truth. ( Malachi 3:6, James 1:17) Even in the LDS there are various sects who claim ongoing revelation , with their own prophets, which is true? I don't say that to slam but to make the point.

I just can't reconcile why God would reveal himself to the Jews and Gentiles of Israel , and then to another people in another different way to the ancient Israelites in American or to the people of the 19th century. Again they both can't be right. (Hebrews 13:8)

(name) thanks for reading. I appreciate that you followed my blog. I am sorry for this being really long in response mainly to grace. I took a lot of time putting this together, so the only thing that I ask is that you look into this matter for eternities sake. It isn't my aim to "convert you" , but just to first show you that Mormon scripture and Biblical scripture cannot reconcile together. Would you just investigate? Read into other Mormon testimonies who've embraced Christianity and their reasons. At the very most it will sharpen your LDS faith making you a strong apologist, on the other side it may change your life all together. I say this as a friend, just as you would to me if you were sharing your faith. That concept I know you can understand.

The Education Decision

2010-08-20T08:21:00.000-07:00

Well my wife and I have talked, researched the options, prayed about it and we both genuinely feel the tug for private school. We both really like the idea of sending our kids to school and being very active/supportive parents during their education.

We took a hard glance at homeschool, while we think so highly of that choice it's just not an avenue we feel led to do. That choice is always open for review. We also have a high view of our local public schools and have heard great things from fellow parents who are using them. At some point we most likely we'll use them.

Choosing Christian school is a really exciting thing for us. We've chosen this avenue for several reasons. Generally we just like the idea of sending our kids to school. We think there are a lot of benefits in that decision. As parents we really like the idea of being connected to a school community. Relationally as parents we want to support our kids teachers in various ways. ( even if/when we would choose public school) I personally believe that there are a lot of skills formed in the classroom that translate into the real world.

We also like the idea of sending them to a school that shares our faith and values as a Christian family. We like a strong academic curriculum that includes God inside of it. Keeping in mind I believe if a parent does choose public school God's self evident truths can be found in much of the curriculum, it's up to parents to shed that light all in all.

I don't like the term socialization, I sense that has been abused among those that fight both pro and con in the homeschool versus public school arena. Rather I think school can greatly help a young person form SOCIAL SKILLS. From making friends, experiences that are positive and negative, dealing with good times and let downs, to respecting authority (teachers, parents, admin, etc) and dealing with difficult people. I believe two things ....that all education should be parent directed and that all parents are homeschoolers despite the specific system they choose for their youngsters. In order for kids to learn how to process their world they need their parents to help with the filtering. Kids sooner or later will get eaten up by influences if they don't get "guidance" from their parents. There are no genuine guarantees, but there are proven and consistent principles that generally hold true.

My wife and I can't wait to be a home that supports our kids in their education wholeheartedly. It's our aim to start out with private school and sustain that as long as we can. We don't know if we can sustain that cost all the way through, but it's our goal to stretch it out as long as we can. Especially during the formative years. However we do feel that eventually our local public schools are a safe and healthy place to land should we have to choose them along the way. All in all we are going to trust God the whole way through.

Song Series part 1 - "Spartan" by FIF

2010-08-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUh2CZz4V3E

This song really resonates how I feel today. It's one of my favorite songs, from my favorite albums, from my favorite band. If that makes sense? Five Iron Frenzy!

The lyrics that really get me today are this....

...."he said love endures all things and it hurts to think its true, if I mark a span of failure is his burden just as light?"

1 Corinthians 13:7 (ESV)

⁷ Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)

²⁸"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

It's a pretty firm guess those lyrics were inspired by the above mentioned two Bible verses.

I don't want to expand my thoughts to broadly today..... but I am really thinking....man if you love someone you endure for their sake. You drive on until you can't drive on anymore. You display patience, kindness, and "speak the truth in love." I genuinely feel my love for others is being tested. My own sensitivities are being challenged and in regards to caring for people my flesh and spirit are locked in combat.

What if I do fail? In the confines of a direction or choice? Will my failures reflect Christ, will they prove Him to be true to his word? That his burdens are light in comparison to what I could ever carry. Will they be light in my failures as well? Will I be failing at all?

I know one thing right now, I never want to close my heart off. I never want to be someone who just folds there arms and says I don't want to play anymore. I want to be a person that can endure. Believe me I can be just as fickle or fair weather as anyone, shame on me if I ever succumb to that.

To others I want to display a genuine love despite my circumstances and feelings. Just like Paul did as displayed in the verses below.

2 Corinthians 6:3-6 (NLT)

Paul’s Hardships

³ We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. ⁴ In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. ⁵ We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food. ⁶ We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.

Here are the rest of the lyrics to "Spartan"

Billie Holiday on the radio
My sluggish heart is beating seven beats too slow
Another sad song and another shot of blue
Cold and unconcerned are anything but new
He said love endures all things, and it hurts to think He's right
If I mark the span of failure
Is his burden just as light?

I am, Spartan
Close my heart so tight
Jesus
Save me
From myself tonight

Limping through the world
There's a knowing look or two
Is it just the cripples here
Who understand the truth?
Why is love so painful?
Why do we always lose?
Paving pathways for the lost
The bitter, and recluse?
He said love endures all things, and it hurts to think it's true
Did it nail Him on a cross?
Did it crucify Him too?

I am, Spartan
Close my heart so tight
Jesus
Save me
From myself tonight

The angels are singing over oe'r the plains
The shepherds are quaking, echoing refrains
And all of our slogans, designed to take away the pain
Meant nothing to the Son of God that night in Bethlehem

I am, Spartan
Close my heart so tight
Jesus
Save me
From myself tonight

If moms got paid....

2010-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

If a stay at home mom got paid she'd make about 117,000 a year according to an article I read. A mom that juggles the load of a full time job outside the home and in the home would get paid about 68,500 a year. No it doesn't mean the working mom is less valuable, just that she has to contract some of the services out. ( day care etc) What do the figures tell you? That moms work hard inside the home, be it working mom or full time stay at home mom, y'all do a lot.
http://articles.sfgate.com/2008-05-09/news/17154292_1_stay-at-home-mom-day-care-center-teacher-motherly-duties

Been thinking about this lately because I've been staying home the last couple of weeks with my wife, daughter and new son. Since my wife has been recovering from a c-section I've been doing the laundry, running errands, doing house work etc. I keep telling my wife she is so much better at this than me. That her job is harder than my job(s) outside the home. She really is a great home maker and mama. It has been and always will be my aim to uplift her in just how hard she works for our family. These last couple weeks of being "Mr. Mom" has given me a new appreciation of her. Thankfully she's had grace on me because I don't run as tight a shift as she does, nonetheless she's appreciated the time off I've had and the things I've helped with around the house.

Colossians 3:19 (NLT)
19 Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly

My son is here.

2010-07-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

We we're blessed to have a healthy baby boy on July 21st. 9.2 lbs, 19.5 inches. Mom and baby are great, and big sister is excited.

Psalm 127:3 (ESV)
3Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.

Educational Choice - Where I am at.

2010-07-20T06:06:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a month since I've really been diving deep into the issue on where to send my kids to school. In this last month I've read books, looked up blogs, talked a bit to other parents, have had great talks with my wife, read articles and have been praying about this. In the end it is up to my wife and I to decide given all the information and prayer over this topic. We hope to decide by Christmas time on what direction we'll take.

A month ago I was at this point.... I was 90% leaning towards local public schools, giving a fair 5% and 5% to home/private school. This is where I am at personally. Public school numbers in my mind have shrunk just a tad....probably around 85%. Private school has jumped to 10%,with a growing appeal to me for a lot of reasons. Homeschool has stayed about the same.

I'll keep reporting on my blog where I am at, and ultimately where my wife and I are at on this decision.

Book Review # 3 - "Going Public: Your Child Can Thrive in Public School."

2010-07-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Grade: 99% ( A +)

Review: In a sea of books designed to equip and encourage Christian parents who lovingly choose homeschool , it is nice to see a book that encourages Christian families who lovingly choose public school. The really sad thing is I've only been able to find 2 books that help Christian families navigate the public school option. Nonetheless if you are investigating all the options out there this is a great book to read. Or if you are already in the public schools this is a book you must get.

The authors are Kelli and David Pritchard , really neat Christian parents of 8 kids who are all going through or have gone through public school. They don't target the other choices of private or home school , but rather uplift parents in the choice of public school. They start off with chapters like " Is Public School an Evil Plot?" and "What the Bible says about Education." Throughout the book the concept is repeated that they are their kids first teachers and the most important influence of their lives, worldviews, morals etc.

The book goes a bit into what I believe are some of the myths those in homeschool/private school movements portray on public schools as a whole. Myths like test scores in comparisons to other nations, that public school is evil etc. Regarding test scores many authors demanding we pull Christian kids out don't tell the whole truth. America is really one of the only nations that test everyone. Unlike other systems which weed kids out along the way, America keeps everyone along the way. The poor, the immigrant who doesn't speak English, racially diverse backrounds, socio-economic backrounds, stable and chaotic homes alike. Though they don't devote a huge portion to it , I think it was healthy to address.

The pillars of a successful public school career first start at home. The 3 most important things they instill and teach their kids are this....1. Love God with all your heart, they go into great detail in just how they disciple their kids and teach them about God. They even go into how God is involved in their education. 2. Obey unconditionally, kids who have learned to respect and obey at home thrive much better at school. There is so much truth to that. They firmly believe that teachers are an extension of their authority and they go into how to respectfully bring disagreements with teachers when they do happen. 3. Practicing Self Control, teaching kids to control themselves.

They go into a lot of detail on the teachable moments and how they're building a biblical frame for their family through them and their personal interactions. My personal favorite chapter is "Everybody should homeschool" , It's my firm belief that all parents are homeschoolers. They often tell people when they get asked if they homeschool ....."yes we homeschool, then we send them to public school to learn other things." They don't negate their authority because they choose schooling outside the home. The authors devote a chapter to how public schooling works best for families when their is a parent at home, the wife ( Kelli) goes into great detail regarding that issue and she really enjoys being a stay at home mom. They are also very fair in addressing single moms on this issue and what you ( the reader) can do to help.

I guess what I love most about this book is two things.... first that home should be base for all students and the parents are their number one teachers/impacts. 2nd that you as the parent are the majority stake holder in your child's education, not the teachers, not the administrators.

They write " Think about the sheer number of hours you get with your child compared to the number of classroom hours. If a student spends 6.5 hours in schools multiplied by 180 schooldays per year, that's 1,170 hours over a year's time. Meanwhile, parents have access to the other 9.5 hours of the school day, plus all the weekends, holidays and assorted vacations, including summer - a grand total of 4,670 hours. Do the math: School receives 20 percent of the "time pie" while parents control the others 80%. That is certainly a sizable advantage that cannot be overlooked."

The authors 100% believe that their kids number one job in public school is just to be a great kid in school. Not some "missionary" at 8 years old. However they have taught their kids to stand for what they believe and their kids have rubbed off on some of their non-believing friends. More importantly their kids have learned to respect those who don't believe like they do. The parents go into how they have built relationships with teachers and administrators ( even ones rough around the edges).

All in all they end the book with a "you can do this" to Christian parents. That all parents should follow the calling God gives, in their case public school. They remind the reader that God is very much in public school despite what some in education are doing. That you can have confidence and complete trust in God because he is sovereign, he is bigger than public schools.

The Impact on me: If you've been following the blog you know I am in doing a lot of research on how to best educate my kids. Still undecided.

This book is encouraging, it's the gold standard for really looking into the choice of public school and how your family can thrive inside of that choice. We often here the stat that 75% of Christian kids lose their faith after their freshmen year and this somehow is tied to public school attendance. I wonder what the stat is for kids who have been discipled or trained in the faith by their parents like the authors of this book have done. I have a hunch the majority of those kids weren't taught much by their parents.

Anyway it just encourages me that you don't have to have any guilt for choosing public school and that God is more interested in what's happening at home to support whatever educational method you choose for your children.

* I'll write another blog for where I am at in the decision making process of schooling for my kids.

* my next book I'll review is a book called "So you're thinking about homeschooling" which is a Focus on the Family sponsored book.

Sex Education in Montana for Kids in Kindergarten

2010-07-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2010/07/15/pn.sex.ed.kindergarten.hln?hpt=T2

This is an issue I will never relent to public school should we as parents choose this route. If we decide to go the public school route I will opt my kids out of sex education. Not because I don't think there isn't good information, but it's information without values behind it.

In this particular case the school district is going against the will of parents and teaching material that is not age appropriate. Nor is it moral. What's even sadder is the commentary/analysis by these panelist on this program. Seriously they sound so lukewarm on protecting little ones. The mom on the panel has the attitude of "whatever the experts say I'll do." She doesn't know that she is the expert on her children?

Parents have forgotten their role as protectors in many avenues of society. Shoot adults in general used to protect younger kids in society. Specifically many parents ( not all) are detached from teaching their kids values and morals. Leaving it to the "world" to bring them up.

I believe sending kids to school(s) for formal training is a great thing. But it becomes a bad thing when parents don't have their kids on the radar at all times. ( kudo's to the parents protesting this decision in this Montana school district, I'll keep an eye if this is overturned or not)

The verse below reminds me of the panelist as well as the superintendent of this school. Very well meaning, nothing but good intentions, but very off base.

Ephesians 4:17 - 18 (NIV)

17So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.

flip flopper

2010-07-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

I am yet undecided from which type of schooling to educate my kids. But I was talking with other parents at church the other day who are largely in the same boat my wife are in. One day is public school is a fine option, the next is home school is really looking interesting, the next is private school is what we'll do. This isn't a decision I think parents should take lightly. To often I think we do.

So today I lean towards a private Christian school education. I genuinely like a traditional school setting. Many Christian schools offer teaching methods that work.... things that many public schools have thrown out the window. Not to mention how awesome it is that my kids can openly make Christ a part of their education! I also like that Christian schools aren't beholden to some heartless agency in Washington, D.C.

That's just how I am leaning today. I think public and home school options have some positives but I am not leaning those ways today. Still lots of research to do, more importantly lots of prayer. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog # 3 Why We Homeschool

2010-07-06T11:52:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful blog I ran into via a google search. I often find most of the blogs I follow via google searches. Anyway here is the link if you want to follow or check out their blog.

http://nolongerconforming.blogspot.com

Why We Homeschool

Most of our friends and family know we homeschool, but while on a trip to recently we got asked several times... why? Truthfully, my answer depends on who asks. Sometimes a stranger asks (usually if we happen to be out during school hours). My answer to a complete stranger when we have approximately 15 seconds, while standing in the checkout line, is different than the answer I give a friend or family member who seems genuinely interested. Sometimes people ask only to argue and defend their choice to send their kids to school. I try to avoid these conversations because no amount of polite discussion is going to change minds on either side.

No matter who asks, though, it is always hard to answer. It is similar to the working mom/stay-at-home mom debate. There are emotions tied up in the discussion. I know what is right for my family and hope others are doing what is right for their family. Just because we homeschool doesn't mean we think you should. It isn't right for every family and that's okay. Now, do I think more families could do it and do it successfully? Absolutely.

I found this article awhile ago that listed ten good reasons to homeschool. As I read, I nodded in agreement the whole time. First, the author has different answers to "why" depending on who asks, just like I do. He also tries to avoid discussing it with some people:

I have found that it is often necessary to change the subject quickly, otherwise I’m stuck listening to total strangers defend their decision to place their kids in school, defend their need for two incomes, and then ask me if I’m worried about issues associated with my own children’s socialization experiences. It still amazes me that people I barely know will readily draw me into such intimate and personal discussions. And worse yet, the defensive nature of the conversation inevitably yields to the expression of guilt on behalf of the person who has children in school. Guilt, defense, and the probability that I’m messing up my children – all from somebody I may have just met.

So why do we homeschool? Our favorite short answer is that we don't want peers to be the biggest influence in our children's lives, but our long answer is much more than that. The author (from the above article) summed it all up much better than I ever could. You should really go read the whole article, but just in case you don't, here are a few highlights that hit the nail on the head:

Reason #3: Time. If I had to pick one phrase that summarily communicates why we homeschool, it would simply be "school is a waste of time." This isn’t to say that people don’t learn important things in school, or that school is a total and complete waste of time...

I would rephrase that to: a lot of time is wasted at school. Even parents who send their kids to school admit this. In school, classmates move as one through each grade. Are each of those children really at the exact same level? Are some kids being pushed along? Are some being held back? How much of each day is "busy work" only to have homework with the parents later anyway?

Reasons #4 & #5: Identity and Control... we want our children to develop clear pictures of their own individual intellectual identities, and we want them to know how to take full advantage of the fact that they are always in control of their own learning.

Somewhere along the line, I learned how to LEARN. More than anything I want that for my children. You might not know everything, but you know a way to find out. My most successful, and most enjoyable, educational experiences are the times I have taught myself. Would you rather spend years learning something or hours?

For example, in the last couple years I've learned a little bit (emphasis on little) about HTML codes. The only reason: this blog. If I had been forced to take a class on computer code in high school I know I would have hated it. It probably would have been a semester of pure torture. I was a good student, so I would have passed. I would have learned what I needed to and then I would have promptly forgotten everything. Then when I found out blogs use HTML code I might have said, "No thanks! I hate that stuff!". Thankfully, that didn't happen. I started a blog and then learned just what I needed to, when I was motivated, in a short amount of time.

Everyone is different. That is a good thing. Different children have different abilities. All students are NOT equal. One of our teacher friends mentioned recently how sad it was that students don't have a sense of "rivalry" (between school sports teams) anymore. I can think of several reasons things have shifted in this area, one is partly due to the fact that students are told everyone is the same. You can't say you're better than someone else, even if it's true. People are different though, that is just a fact. Some people are not as bright as others. Some will be sanitation workers while others will be doctors. And you know what? That's okay! We need both!

I often think about people's God-given, innate talents. How many people missed their calling because they had to toe the "school" line and never had the chance to branch out and find their own path. Being taught to be the "same" as everyone else is not what I want for my children. If you're hoping for a classless society where all members are perfectly equal then you're hoping for communism.

Reason #6: Socialization... But it may surprise most people to learn that concerns about socialization are one of the most important reasons why we choose tohomeschool.

I don't want my children to be "socialized" in the way most people mean when they ask about this. Dictionary.com says this about socialization: " a continuing process whereby an individual acquires a personal identity and learns the norms, values, behavior, and social skills...". Socialization is a process that starts at birth and never ends. That process doesn't magically start when a child enters school and it definitely doesn't stop if they stay home!

Reason #7: Shelter. One of the criticisms I get occasionally during discussions about homeschooling is whether or not I’m concerned about the fact that our children are sheltered too much from reality...

Our kids are "sheltered", but isn't that what parents are for? All parents "shelter" their children in some ways whether they go to school or not. Our kids don't see some of the differences that kids in school might see. They don't think that hanging out with your baby brother is lame. They played with a neighbor kid for months before it dawned on them that her skin was a different color. They don't care one bit about what clothes they wear and they don't ever ask for something "because all the kids have one".

Reason #9: Family. Perhaps the most profound reason why we homeschool is our desire to truly appreciate the daily sanctity of family. Time is a precious commodity, and it is much more worthy of family than many of the non-family experiences...

I think it's unfortunate that the mandatory age for schooling just keeps getting younger and pulls kids away from their families earlier. I'm only half kidding when I say that before too long we'll just discharge them from the birthing suite to a learning institution of some sort.

I have absolute confidence that we can properly educate our children within the walls of our own home. Why? Because one on one "tutoring" works. Because we know our children, their strengths and weaknesses, and we love them more than any teacher ever could! No one cares more than we do about whether or not they are successful.

Reason #10: Religion...We homeschool because it is part and parcel of our faith experience. Serving others, praying together, and living lives that are not defined exclusively by the values of our society...

We are not religious nuts. In fact, we aren't part of any "religion". We do, however, have a relationship with Jesus Christ and what we believe, as Christians, has become taboo in the public school system while other religions and lifestyles are freely discussed as part of a "global worldview".

Bonus Reason #11: It's Not All About Fun
My last point wasn't mentioned in the above article but I thought I'd mention it here anyway. I have to chuckle when people say my kids are missing out on all the "fun". Well, since we are talking about school here, I thought the goal was an education!

But don't worry, homeschoolers have plenty of fun. We just took a two week vacation in the middle of the school year! We go on field trips, play sports, and hang out with friends just the same as schooled children. Ourhomeschool group even has their own prom.

Homeschoolers, who feel so led, can do everything their school-attending counterparts do. We definitely aren't missing any fun! We're just having fun (and learning) together as a family. And when it comes down to it... I can't think of anything more important than that. I might regret a lot of things later in my life, but I don't think spending time investing in my children will be one of them.

Good sites for looking into homeschool

2010-07-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

I thought these were good web pages for an overview of homeschooling, different types of homeschooling, curriculum etc.

http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/schooling/effective_home_schooling/choosing_a_home_school_curriculum.aspx

http://www.waymarks.com/homeschool/

http://www.home-school-curriculum-advisor.com/home-schooling-method.html

5 top reasons not to choose public school

2010-07-02T06:07:00.000-07:00

It's my aim to present all sides of the issue on my blog. Again this is just part of my deep look into all the sides of the issue. ( home, public, private school) Eventually deciding what schooling I'll be using for my kids. I am not inclined to agree with everything in this post, but I am inclined to seriously read it and look into its claims. It's written by a Godly man named Voddie Baucham, author of "Family Driven Faith" , a book I reviewed in a previous blog.

Anyone who has kept up with my blog knows that I am no fan of government education. I have made it a point to carry The Continuing Collapse on a regular basis, and I try to make biblical, philosophical and theological arguments in favor of Christian education as often as possible. However, I recognize the obstacles those of us on my side of the street face. As many as eighty-five to ninety percent of professing Christians send their children to the government for their education. That is simply an astonishing figure considering the fact that the Christian community fought mandatory government education tooth-and-nail for it’s first fifty years of existence. Since then we have gone from fighting against government schools to fighting for them and implying that those who fight against them are fundamentalists, anti-intellectuals, and racists.

In the meantime, our schools grow progressively worse. Well, as we begin this summer, I want to appeal to those of you with children in government schools. Please don’t send them back! I beg you to consider what you are doing. As Dave Black has written:

No academic skepticism, no secularist authors, no blatant materialism can so undermine the spiritual life of the country like the completely secularized training of the child under the authority of the state... Bible-based education is mandatory for Christian parents. If we think we can keep our children in a secular school system and escape the dumbed-down, amoral, and immoral results of secular humanism in schools, we are sorely mistaken (emphasis added, see: http://daveblackonline.com/our.htm).

With that, here are the top five reasons not to send your kids back to government school next year:

5. YOU DON’T HAVE TO

This may sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people ask home educators the “authority” questions (i.e., to whom do your report? who approves your curriculum?). These questions are the byproduct of statism. The Gramscian, neo-Marxist influence is so prevalent in our culture that we don’t even recognize it anymore. We actually believe that children are wards of the state when in fact they are not. As a result, some people have a hard time believing that they have the right to educate their children in a manner of their choosing. Well, I’m here to tell you that you are free. Your children are yours. They do not belong to Caesar. You don’t have to take them back to the local government indoctrination center next semester. And in some states (thank God for Texas), you don’t even have to tell them you’re not coming back!

4. AMERICA’S SCHOOLS ARE AMONG THE WORST IN THE INDUSTRIALIZED WORLD

One of the issues that many Christians seem willing to ignore is the fact that sending children to American schools represents extremely poor stewardship. American students continually rank at the bottom in math, science and reading compared to other industrialized nations (see here). That’s right, our educational system is among the world’s worst! Of course everyone says, “Our schools are different.” News flash... that’s a lie!

One of our elders taught honors math at one of the “best schools” in one of the “best school districts” in Texas (you know, one of those schools people lie and cheat to get their children into so that they can get a better education). His advanced geometry class was filled with a bunch of imbeciles who could barely do basic arithmetic. As a result, most of them failed their first major test. You know what happened next. That’s right, the principal called him into the office and told him to make things right. One of the things he was told to employ was a grading technique called “Square root times ten.” Thus, a student who made a 49 on a test ended up with a 70 in the grade book (for those of you who went to government schools like me, that’s the square root of 49 times ten).

This is what’s happening at our “best” schools. Don’t believe me? ask a college admissions worker how many students coming from our “best” schools with grade point averages hovering near 4.0 need remediation when they get to college. It’s an absolute joke. The overwhelming majority of children in our schools have a B average or above (mostly for self esteem reasons), which serves to give them and their parents a false sense of achievement. It also results in people who ‘feel really good’ about their schools.

Please don’t buy the lie. Your child’s school is probably terrible. If you really care about the stewardship of you child’s mind, don’t send them back to the worst schools in the industrialized world next year.

3. AMERICA’S SCHOOLS ARE MORALLY REPUGNANT

The headlines speak for themselves. Student-teacher sex scandals, student-student sex, immodesty, foul language, drugs, alcohol, radical homosexual agendas, teachers taking students for abortions, “sexting” leading to suicide, sexually transmitted diseases, brutal beatings, and school shootings (see here). These are just some of the headlines that have become the norm. And that does not include things like cheating, disrespect for authority, impropriety towards the opposite sex, and other moral behaviors children learn regularly and repeatedly in school. Van Til said it better than I ever could:

“Non-Christian education puts the child in a vacuum…. The result is that child dies. Christian education alone really nurtures personality because it alone gives the child air and food…. Modern educational philosophy gruesomely insults our God and our Christ. How, then, do you expect to build anything positively Christian or theistic upon a foundation which is the negation of Christianity and theism?…. No teaching of any sort is possible except in Christian schools.”

Moreover, the system itself is funded by virtual theft. Homeowners are forced under threat of the loss of their property to pay for the education of other people’s children. How is that appropriate? The government tells everyone that they have to send their children to school, then tells homeowners that they are going to be the ones to foot the bill whether they like it or not. Not only is this a form of welfare, it is also a form of theft.

For those of you ready to read me the riot act and yell and scream about paying for roads and bridges, hold on a minute. Why is it that we get all up-in-arms about our tax dollars being used to fund abortions (while our opponents make the roads and bridges argument), but we don’t see this one? Our schools are morally repugnant. They are also neo-Marxist, secular humanist indoctrination centers. Why should I as a Christian be forced to pay for children to have every vestige of Christianity beaten out of them? Americans are not forced to pay for Mormon schools, or Muslim schools; why should we be forced to pay for neo-Marxist schools (remember, all education is religious in nature)? And why should any Christian contribute to such a system by sending their children to such schools at the expense of others? And before you yell, “I’m just using the tax dollars I spent,” ask yourself if you’re willing to take advantage of all that abortion funding going to Planned Parenthood, or those tax dollars going toward fetal stem cell research.

2.GOVERNMENT EDUCATION IS ANTI-CHRISTIAN

“I am as sure as I am of Christ’s reign that a comprehensive and centralized system of national education, separated from religion, as is now commonly proposed, will prove the most appalling enginery for the propagation of anti-Christian and atheistic unbelief, and of anti-social nihilistic ethics, individual, social and political, which this sin-rent world has ever seen.”

-A.A. Hodge

Jesus made it quite clear when he said, “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” (Matthew 12:30 ESV) I am amazed at how many Christians refuse to acknowledge this fact as it relates to the government school system. Our education is either based on biblical truth, or some other truth. There is no such thing as neutrality in this regard. All education is religious in nature. Since it is illegal for students in our government schools to be taught from a Christian perspective, then it follows that they must be taught from a non (or anti) Christian perspective.

As Hodge pointed out, the result of non-Christian education is anti-Christian education. Government schools must be anti-Christian. They can be nothing else. Therefore, to send a child to a government school is to have them trained in an anti-Christian environment for 14,000 instructional hours. To get that much instruction from church a child would have to attend two hours a week for one hundred and forty years!

1. THE BIBLE COMMANDS CHRIST-CENTERED EDUCATION

“This whole process of education is to be religious, and not only religious, but Christian…. And as Christianity is the only true religion, and God in Christ the only true God, the only possible means of profitable education is the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

-Charles Hodge

I recognize that educational antinomianism is the norm in the modern American church. According to the common refrain, “It doesn’t matter what educational choice you make... you just have to pray about it and do what the Lord leads your family to do.” However, I must confess I find this this concept disturbing on a number of fronts. First, this kind of thinking denies the sufficiency of Scripture. The Bible speaks either directly, or principially to every aspect of life. There are no grey areas. Sure, there are things that are difficult to discern, but education is not one of them. Though you won’t find the word ‘education’ in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, there are a number of passages that speak directly to the issue of training ourselves and our children intellectually, spiritually, philosophically and morally (See Deut. 6:6,7; Prov. 1:7; Eph. 6:4, etc). We also have numerous warnings against allowing others to influence us intellectually, spiritually, philosophically, and morally (Psalm 1; Rom. 12:1,2; 2 Cor. 6:14ff; Col. 2:8, etc.).

Second, this line of reasoning smacks of mysticism. Instead of making an argument with an open Bible we dismiss all opposition with the flippant, trite, overused, and theologically problem-laden phrase, “we prayed about it and this is what the Lord told us to do.” The lord ‘has spoken’. (Heb. 1:1-2) We are not awaiting new revelation. Instead of doing what the Lord ‘told us’, Christians are commanded to do what the Lord ‘has told us’ in his Word. The London Baptist Confession speaks to this matter rather poignantly:

The Holy Scripture is the only sufficient, certain, and infallible rule of all saving Knowledge, faith and obedience; Although the light of Nature, and the works of creation and providence do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom and power of God, as to leave men unexcusable [sic.]; yet are they not sufficient to give that knowledge of God and His will, which is necessary unto salvation. Therefore it pleased the Lord at sundry times, and in divers manners, to reveal himself, and to declare that His will unto his Church; and afterward for the better preserving, and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure establishment, and comfort of the Church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice of Satan, and of the World, to commit the same wholly unto writing; which maketh the Holy Scriptures to be most necessary, those former ways of Gods revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.

The Cambridge Declaration states:

We reaffirm the inerrant Scripture to be the sole source of written divine revelation, which alone can bind the conscience. The Bible alone teaches all that is necessary for our salvation from sin and is the standard by which all Christian behavior must be measured. We deny that any creed, council or individual may bind a Christian's conscience, that the Holy Spirit speaks independently of or contrary to what is set forth in the Bible, or that personal spiritual experience [i.e., “the Lord told me”] can ever be a vehicle of revelation.

There’s enough here for an entire series of posts (so many posts... so little time), but for now let me simply say that the “the Lord told me” line of argumentation has serious theological problems. We must make our educational decisions with an open Bible. “The Lord told me” is no substitute for “the Bible says...” Please don’t make a decision about your child’s education without consulting (and obeying) the Scriptures.

This week the SBC hornet’s nest is being stirred up again over the education issue. The last time this happened I was beyond embarrassed as I listened to my esteemed colleagues make illogical, unscriptural, cowardly arguments for “not giving up on ‘our’ schools.” How I long for voices like Hodge, Van Til, and Machen (who called government education a “soul-killing system”) to be heard among my brethren. However, with over eighty-five percent of our children in the government schools and more government school teachers and administrators than any other “denomination”, it is highly unlikely that our side will prevail on this issue any time soon. One wonders what the schools will have to do to our children before we are willing to acknowledge the folly of our choices. In the meantime, I will continue to watch, fight, and pray, and try to convince as many of you as I can to liberate your children from Caesar’s indoctrination camps.

I have quoted John Wesley on this issue in previous posts. However, his words are far too pertinent for me to ignore on this issue:

“Let it be remembered, that I do not speak to the wild, giddy, thoughtless world, but to those that fear God. I ask, then, for what end do you send you children to school? “Why, that they may be fit to live in the world.” In which world do you mean, — this or the next? Perhaps you thought of this world only; and had forgot that there is a world to come; yea, and one that will last for ever! Pray take this into your account, and send them to such masters as will keep it always before their eyes. Otherwise, to send them to school (permit me to speak plainly) is little better than sending them to the devil. At all events, then, send your boys, if you have any concern for their souls, not to any of the large public schools, (for they are nurseries of all manner of wickedness,) but private school, kept by some pious man, who endeavours to instruct a small number of children in religion and learning together.”

I can’t help but wonder if people called Wesley divisive or extremist for making the aforementioned comments. Perhaps not. Perhaps they simply said, “That may be right for you, but it’s not what the Lord told us to do.”

Guest Blog # 2 Christ vs. Public School Debate

2010-07-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

I genuinely loved the fair look into this issue by this blogger.

The link to this blog is....

http://pastorericsmith.blogspot.com

The Christian School vs. Public School Debate

I recently read an article concerning spiritual reasons why Christian children should be sent to a Christian school vs. a public school. The article heavily cites the book by Diane Dekker, Two Trees of Knowledge: A Biblical Case For the Separation of School and State.

The article makes a good point about being unequally yoked with the world in the education of your child, though it is debatable on how much of a 'yoking' really exists between parents and the public school system in actuality, and it is apparently and falsely assumed that no Christian teachers exist in the public school systems.
The article also brings into question parents who think they are sending their children into the public school system (the "devil's camp") to 'make their faith stronger' or to 'defend their faith' and finishes that point with saying that no where in the Bible are people sent into the enemies camp to receive training to make their faith stronger. Also cited in the article is the statistic that Christian kids who attend public high schools tend to abandon the faith by the end of their first year in college to the tune of 75% - 90%.

I have a fairly unique perspective on this matter. I have attended both Christian and public schools as a student, my children have/are attending both, and though I'm a full time pastor I also have the opportunity to be a part-time substitute teacher in the public school system here in my community. I'm certainly not against a Christian school education whatsoever, and in some cases it may be the best place to send one's child. However I have some concerns with some of the article's assertions.

Here are my observations:

1. I think it is falsely assumed that a public school is automatically the devil’s camp and the Christian school is God’s camp – what determines whose camp it is - a Bible class is offered? Does ungodliness abound in the public school? Without question. But the truth is there are ungodly people everywhere we go (even church) and the dirty little secret in Christian schools is that many of its students are just as ungodly as the students in the public school. The main difference is that in the Christian school it's kept on the down low. The students are often as good as wearing their "God mask" as some of their parents are on Sunday mornings.

The deal is - as Christians living on this planet we are aliens no matter where we go. Every ‘game’ for us is a road game. No where in the Bible are we promised an easy road in following Christ - in fact it is described as narrow and difficult. But nevertheless, as a Kingdom believer everywhere I set my feet is God’s property – I live in the victory and authority of Jesus name and by His Spirit I have the ability dictate atmospheres not be buffeted by them.

2. The article mentions not believing the myth of sending our kids to the public in order for them to be 'strengthened' or 'trained' in their faith by having to frequently defend it. My thought here is - if parents are sending their kids to any school to have them 'trained in their faith' they've already dropped the ball. The primary responsibility of passing the baton of faith onto our children rests firmly and squarely on the shoulders of parents. When I send my kids to which ever school - it's not in hopes that they'd be somehow trained in their faith. In fact while at the Christian school just the opposite began to happen - I found myself praying that they would maintain their faith in the lukewarm, faithless atmosphere that permeated their "Christian" school.

Having witnessed the Christian school firsthand – I found that it was just as tough to ‘defend’ the faith in a Christian school as it is/was in a public school - maybe harder because at the Christian school the attack was subversive. Many of the issues I dealt with were with people who supposedly had a relationship with Christ.

Just in case any doubt remained in me about what is going on with many Christian school students - they've been erased as I've seen their Facebook profiles. It's quite sad to see what is said, posted, with some even blatantly stating that they are agnostics and atheists! It could be easily argued that maintaining an on fire, passionate relationship with Jesus Christ is actually MORE difficult in a deluded, pseudo-Christian atmosphere than it is in a blatantly non-Christian environment.

3. The article cites the statistic that around 75% - 90% of Christians kids reject the faith in secular college. The problem is this statistic is an across the board stat for ALL church going kids - regardless of whether they attend a Christian or public school. Again, check their Facebook pages mom and dad - you may have already lost them and not know it yet. Perhaps after that first year of college is when they finally have the guts to let you know.

This very real (and heart breaking) statistic really may be more of a referendum on parents successfully passing a vibrant faith on to their children and perhaps the value of sending our kids to a Christian college rather than which high school the student attended.

The bottom-line is this: Parent's must never take for granted their child's experience with God. Never assume that just because they go to church with you that all is well. Never underestimate the value of them seeing you live your faith out in front of them in a very real and radical manner and never underestimate the value of frequent spiritual conversations and applications in your home. Finally, never rely on a school OR a church for your child's spiritual training - they should only be supplemental to what they learn from you at home. Their soul depends on it.

Guest Post # 1 - Public School Does Not Equal bad parents

2010-07-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

This is a blogger I found a little bit ago. She has a great blog and is passionate about the Lord and discipling her daughter. In this blog she says why they are choosing public school right now and encourages her readers that on this issue being obedient to God is the key. One quote that I absolutely love from her blog is this......

"But never, at any point, will we be turning over our responsibility to educate our daughter ... to train her up in righteousness, to give her a solid foundation in the Word, and to oversee her education in every area."

This is part of what I am doing in researching the topics of home, private and public school. Finding various bloggers with personal views and insights on why they choose what they choose for their kids. There will be why I homeschool guest blogs and if I can find them why I send my kids to Christian school guest blogs as well.

This is a link to her great blog....

http://www.pleasingtoyou.com/

Public School Does NOT Equal Bad Parents

I have a pretty wide circle of friends ... both online and in real life. And we have lots of differing points of view on lots of different topics. I try to be pretty neutral here at Pleasing to You about many of those topics which can be very divisive.

But there is something I think needs to be said ...

Sending your children to public school is not a sin.

Now, let me add this, if God has led you to do otherwise, you should certainly be obedient to Him ... but, truly, from my heart, I want to encourage the countless people who have CHOSEN or are in situations that require them to place their children into public schools. God is NOT disappointed in you and you are NOT failing your children spiritually!!

Let me share our story ...

Both Scott and I attended public schools ... good public schools where we received quality educations and were blessed to be surrounded by teachers who were Christians and lived out their faith in front of us. We were raised in communities where faith was an integral part of eveything done and we were blessed to attend churches where we received solid foundations in our spiritual lives.

When we had Casiday, we both had some concerns (I more than he) about placing her in public school. Thus, Casiday's educational journey began at Brunswick Christian Academy when she was three and attended their preschool. She continued there through first grade ... and we were blessed by the many amazing teachers she had and the genuine love for the Lord we saw nurtured and encouraged in her life.

Over the course of her year in first grade, we began feeling the Lord leading us in a different direction. We prayed and both felt an absolute peace about transferring her to public school for second grade. We prayed about all our options and discussed homeschooling for that one year as a transition. But, there was just an overhwhelming sense that God wanted us to place her in public school

We took the heat! From parents of children in Christian school and homeschooling families ... and it was hard. These well-intentioned, kind-hearted individuals were not just questioning our decision ... they were, in effect, questioning our judgment, our spiritual faithfulness, and our ability as parents to do what is best for our child.

But lest you think I am being critical of anyone else, realize this ... six years ago ~ I was the same way! I was so sure and certain that "I" had been granted THE wisdom about the best way to provide for a child's education. And in my confidence, I said things to others about which I have since had to extend an apology, acknowledge my arrogance, and humbly trust that the Lord grants wisdom to ALL who seek it (James 1:5).

Did I struggle with the choice to send her to public school? ABSOLUTELY! I cried the whole way home from leaving her that first day of school. But how God ministered to me and granted me encouragement and assurance that we were, indeed, following His instruction. Her teacher that year was a precious woman who loves the Lord and attends another church in our community. Casiday loved her and second grade was wonderful!

In Casiday's three years in public school, she has had opportunities to live out her faith and impact her classroom in amazing ways! Here are a few ...

In 2nd grade ... She was picked on and teased by a little boy who called her "White Christian Barbie." HER response was to ask me to pray for him ... and we did ... every.single.night. He made fun of her all year long but she was kind and continued to pray.

In 3rd grade ... She was student of the week in her class and got to bring a scrapbook to share about her life. Included, was a picture of her baptism ... for 20 minutes, my child was able to share her faith with her fellow students as they asked her questions about why she got baptized and what it meant. As a parent, I have never been so proud of my daughter as I was that day ... she confidently shared her faith with her peers.

In 4th grade ... We've had a rough year. She and her teacher have not "gelled" ... at. all. But she's got a new best friend. A little girl who lives behind us and is in her class. S is a Jehovah's Witness ... and Casiday has learned to be friends with someone who believes differently than we do. She has shared with S what we believe and why ... and showed her Scriptures about Jesus and how to be saved. Casiday prays for S ... and she treats her with such respect and compassion. Through Christmas, Casiday would unplug the tree in her room when S was over ... if only we could all have such a tender witness to others!! {Oh and that boy from 2nd grade that picked on her is in her class this year ... and he's become quite protective of her! Faithful prayers produce results!}

I'm not saying public school is for everyone, in fact, I am absolutely certain that it is not! I'm saying this ...

There is no universal "right" answer!

We pray every year about what the Lord would have us do regarding Casiday's education ... and every year we are committed to being obedient to whatever He leads. We may end up back in Christian school. We could homeschool. Or we may continue in public school. But never, at any point, will we be turning over our responsibility to educate our daughter ... to train her up in righteousness, to give her a solid foundation in the Word, and to oversee her education in every area.

And we will pray for our many friends and family who are daily carrying out the full measure of instructing their children in their homes. We will lift up those whose children attend Christian schools. And we will undergird those who have made the decision to place their children in public schools.

Because the truth is ... we're all on the same team! And we need to remember that no education method or location is the enemy ... but our enemy certainly wins a battle when he can distract and divide us by such things!!

Please, can we all remember that these are personal decisions ... and that God works in each of us through different means to accomplish His plans in our lives?

UNSCHOOLING

2010-06-30T06:02:00.000-07:00

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Parenting/unschooling-homeschooling-book-tests-classes/story?id=10410867&page=2

( above is a link to a report on unschooling)

I've been enjoying the process of looking into how I'll educate my kids. It's a huge process and I feel that I am just at the beginning of this all. I am seriously looking into the pros and cons of home, public, private school and which one I'll end up choosing for my family. I came across the idea of unschooling a while back and wanted to share my thoughts on it.

I am not going to dive deep into my thoughts on the topic of unschooling. Basically the concept is let children direct their education and parents only facilitate that. This is a concept I don't embrace nor will look into much further. I think this is the harsh reaction to dislikes of public education and levels of structure. I see some valid points in their arguments but to crush concepts of structure and discipline all together for the "happiness" or "will" of the children isn't a good idea either.

This isn't how the world works. Imagine if an NFL team instructed players to play how they want, decide their own course, and practice however they want just as long as they show up. You just learn by getting on the field and running around. It would be disastrous. Or if a small business told it's employees to only work on what they like, the end result would be a failed business.

Disorder doesn't create order. Never has never will.

It's my view that all education ( or child rearing in general) has to be parent directed. I think that is the God given role of parents in the wider Biblical mandate. That is what God has done with his children. (mankind) If I study the scriptures correctly bad things happen when man decides his own direction or is wise in his own eyes. Shouldn't we apply that to raising our kids?

Notice the below translations of Proverbs 22:6....look at the mandate to parents with words like...."teach, train, or direct."

Proverbs 22:6 (New International Version)

⁶ Train a child in the way he should go,
and when he is old he will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6 (New Living Translation)

⁶ Direct your children onto the right path,
and when they are older, they will not leave it.

Proverbs 22:6 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)

⁶ Teach a youth about the way he should go;

even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Imagine the course of western civilization if it had been....."let your children direct their own paths" or "children must teach themselves what's right." etc. In the Bible it constantly talks about getting wisdom, seeking wisdom, etc. While curiosity may be built within, wisdom is not. Acquiring wisdom takes direction, instruction, teaching etc.

I am not saying we shouldn't incorporate our children's desires, pursuits and interest within the context of a well rounded education. If my son is interested in history you better believe I am going to facilitate that. If my daughter loves biology or reading I am going to facilitate that desire. However just because a child may hate a subject doesn't mean we should avoid that.

I am just saying that education based on the inclinations of your kids isn't a good idea. Children need structure, guidelines, direction and with that being a base........the freedom to explore creativity, the ability for parents to foster their interest etc. Unschooling seems like an incomplete idea. One that I think would fail most kids at the end when its time for them to fly out of the nest. This is an idea as a whole I don't support.

Homeschool Curriculum

2010-06-29T04:28:00.000-07:00

So my "education blogs" are devoted to honestly investigating all 3 options of educating my kids. Lately I've been researching home school curriculum. Finding a curriculum isn't the problem, it seems like a bigger task to find any authority on these curriculum's. I can find sources for reviews but where is a GOOD PLACE to find valid reviews with any authority? Are there websites that allow you to dig deeper in curriculum's?

An encouraging quote

2010-06-28T05:54:00.000-07:00

"We've educated our three children in virtually every possible setting over the years-- home school, private school, and public schools. My husband and I determined long ago that our family will march to the beat of our own drummer. We refuse to be victims of snobbery by those parents who insist that private schools are the best. We won't allow ourselves to be shamed by well meaning parents who insist that if we don't home school then we are less committed to our kids than they are to theirs. And we absolutely reject both the conventional wisdom that public education is the answer, and the notion that all public schools are failing schools. We have never forced all of our children into one educational mold out of a desire for convenience. It makes life a little more complicated to actually have to evaluate what situations are best for your kids, but it is absolutely worth it." - Rebecca Hagelin ( "30 Ways in 30 Days to Save Your Family")

I think this such a great quote. We have to evaluate and re-evaluate this choice.( How we educate our kids) Just because we choose one system doesn't mean that will be the best down the line for our kids. This quote just encouraged me that this is not an all or nothing issue. I knew that but it's a nice reminder. It is also a reminder that we shouldn't base our families decision solely on the bias of other people who may have negative feelings towards another system.
The particular chapter this quote is from is called "Direct Your Child's Education." I think that is the key.....all education should be parent directed.....part of that parental direction is to make adjustments when necessary. All in all it's my aim to seek the Lord's wisdom in this process and not the overall biases of whichever party. This is not to say people don't have good things to say in regards to their choices but I am saying the end result will not be solely on the merits of human wisdom.

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV)
⁶ For the LORD gives wisdom,
and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

"Helping your Child Succeed in Public School" By Cheri Fuller

2010-06-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

The Grade - B + ( 89%) This is a book I highly recommend for Christian families navigating through public school. Again I got this book from the library but I would buy this book.

The Good: I think this is a must have resource for every Christian family who lovingly chooses public school. I say lovingly because I think public school can be a loving and proper choice. Just like home school and private school. So long as parents are purposeful, and their home is a faith-filled loving Christian home.

The book stresses how important it is to be an involved parent. Properly noting that it's the parents who make all the difference in their child's education. That parents need to take ownership in large part for their kids education. The author offers great tips to help your student develop a great student teacher relationship and for parents to build a great working relationship with their teachers. Great tips are provided for the oversight of your children's education and how to take proper action when their is a problem. I genuinely love the encouragement for Christian parents and how they should relate with school officials.......expressing how much more your concerns are heard when you are actually serving your teachers and kids school. Because you aren't just viewed as a annoying complainer every time there is an issue. The book offers great tips on just about everything....how a parent can be better involved with their kids school, study tips, organizational tips, supplemental educational experiences, how to enrich their public school experience and the like. Not to mention tips for helping the learning style of your kid.

In regards to faith there are two great chapters devoted to helping your kid have strong faith, and that it does start with the home. That is where discipleship takes place. There is another great chapter on praying for your kid. There are also great examples of parents who are raising Godly kids by implementing Godly practices at home. Stories of how God has worked through/for kids at public school.

The in between: It offers some great resources in several Appendix pages in the back. Resources from implementing character education, working with school officials, religious rights of students, supplemental reading at age appropriate levels, video and audio resources, further reading on public school and parents etc. The problem is some of these thing may be outdated or non existent today so you'll have to research a bit.

The bad: While it does address the high school and middle school years and offers some great tips it's fairly silent on the issue of peer pressure. Which is a huge huge issue at those ages. I work at a middle school I see that on a regular basis. In general I think the book is properly geared towards elementary years and setting them off to a great start. However I would've like that topic to be addressed.

The book was written in 1994 and updated in 1999 so it's a bit outdated in regards to modern times. However it's not to far out of the loop in regards tips and strategies. I
would've loved a more in depth look on issues of faith, not that it didn't do a good job, just wanted more detail from the author rather than what felt like summary in some areas.

The Impact: In a sea of books that discourage the choice of public school, its nice to see a Christian author equip and empower parents for this choice. It would definitely be used as a resource should public school be our final choice.

* the next two books I'll be reviewing on this issue are..... "Going Public" By Kelli and David Pritchard and " Two Trees of Knowledge" by Dianne Dekker.

First book review - "Family Driven Faith" By Voddie Baucham

2010-06-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Grade : If I had to grade this book I would give it a strong B. ( 85%) I have a lot more likes than dislikes in this book. I got this from the library but it is a book I would own and use as a reference.

The good : This a is book that if you pick up will sound the alarms and give you a desire to seriously disciple your family. Incorporating family worship, devotions, and the teaching of important christian doctrine. It rightly puts this issue on the family, mainly the father of the family. It offers some great ideas in how to incorporate the above mentioned. Noting that you don't have to be a seminarian to accomplish this just an authentic father who gathers his family around God's word. It rightly breaks down many of the fallacies the world offers on topics like love, spirituality, and the overall secular worldview. It rightly expresses how those views ravage the culture. If parents aren't purposeful about teaching the faith then someone else will fill that gap with other philosophy.

This book highlights the fact that men need to be careful what they invest in at the expense of their family. At the end of the day sports, work, politics aren't lasting but investment in family is. You only get one chance to raise your kids.

The In between : Bauchman supports a concept I have never heard about. Calling it the " Family Integrated Church." In most part I didn't like his ideas. In general I liked some of his concepts though and I think universally the church at large needs to take a look at how exactly it honors/views family. Culture has rubbed off on church families or at least how the American church views family. For example many people cringe if a young married couple has kids, or if there is a family past 2 children. He rightly points out that you don't a lot of times hear anything mentioned on the pulpit about birthrates, multi-generational faithfulness etc Also that the church can be very kid unfriendly sometimes. While much of what he says about youth ministry I disagree with he does point out that parents are hardly involved in their kids youth ministry I would love to see that integrated a bit more. I also think it would be a cool idea to have or encourage younger people ( teens) to have Sunday school classes with older people. I have some agreements in my own church about how the youth seem so separate from the wider church and we do as a church wonder why its hard to plug kids back in once they graduate from high school.

Bauchman does also call for churches to start holding men accountable for how they are leading their family ......if at all. I think this is huge! This needs to be done among men in churches. So I love that idea.

He offers great reasons to homeschool, he makes a very biblical case which does make me want to investigate about school options and seek the Lord's guidance on it. I think he correctly points out that the church should be a friendly place for homeschoolers as well. In some churches they simply aren't.

The bad: He fully supports a church model of family integration. In his book he simply suggest that nursery's in church are just places to drop off our kids and forget about them. I disagree with that whole heartedly. I think nurseries are crucial for a church. I view it as my daughters way to worship Jesus for starters. I talk to her about that just about every Sunday. I think it's a healthy service to offer as a church and for the parents, and for the teaching of God's word in service. In his church there is no youth ministry or nursery. He says that family integration is biblical and I won't really argue with him on that, but he says other models that have a nursery system and youth groups are unbiblical yet he doesn't Biblically make the case for that. I would like to ask him how he could justify his belief against youth ministry but how God calls people into the youth ministry? Or children's ministry. Vacation Bible School for example has brought several youngsters to Christ.

He starts off the book on how family really makes or breaks mulit-generational faithfulness and then kind of switches to the importance of church model to support that idea. I think discipleship among parents is the key for the passing on of faith. We are losing younger generations because Christian parents are failing to equip their youngsters at home and rightly said by Bauchman we are relying on the church to that. I agree it's not the churches job to do that, simply equip the Saints for that.

I don't 100% agree with him on the homeschooling front. As with other authors today he tells a stat that 75% of kids of public school students lose their faith by the end of their freshmen year of college. I think that's a correct stat, however I just cannot yet be convinced it is the public schools fault , but rather it goes back down to the parents fault. They didn't "train their kids in the way." So naturally when kids are out of the nest they fall away, they never learned to fly.
I tend to think of all parents as homeschool teachers, they are their kids primary influence. Now homeschooling I will concede offers a softer ground for a faith filled environment and more influence during the day. Being a public school parent offers more challenges along the course no doubt. But regardless if a child is not being discipled by his or her parents they will lose any bearings come time out of the nest.

I want to see the stat of how kids keep their faith after their freshmen year if prayer, family devotions and worship, talking about the important doctrines and worldview training in general were applied. I think it would be vastly different. That to me should be the churches first mandate to parents. "We're losing them because you aren't training them." Now the flocks reply should be "equip us."

Impact: It gives me greater pause to seriously look at my kids education from a biblical world view. My wife and I are taking this issue very seriously. Even more so it stirs me to rise up and be a Godly man, to train my kids, be a great husband, and the best spiritual leader I can. I recommend any man or woman serious about keeping faith in Christ central for their family should read this.

* my next book review will be over a book called " Helping Your Child Succeed in Public School" By Cheri Fuller

Stupid in America

2010-06-23T05:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx4pN-aiofw&playnext_from=TL&videos=FF282I8gbqA

This was a 40 min report about public schools in America. I can't say this gives a full view of public education in America, but I think this does give an accurate view of many urban schools across the country. It also seems to portray many problems in northeast and west coast schools. It makes little reference to suburban schools other than just making a statement that there not doing good. Yet it doesn't show facts about that claim.

I do think it highlights a great point on just how hard it can be for school districts to fire teachers. As well as how rabid teachers unions can be. I work at a public school and trust me there are some great teachers. However there are teachers who have no business teaching as well. Teachers have been made to feel special by politicians and the like so much that some teachers think they don't have to work really hard anymore. ( note I said some, but that environment paves the way for laziness/entitlement ) The school I work at is more of an urban school. The schools can't reward excellence and there is not merit based pay.

I am critical of some of the parents on this documentary when they are frustrated to know that their kids aren't doing well. Are you kidding me? These parents haven't been monitoring their education? That to me is a cultural disconnect, somehow down the line we've sent our kids to school and have lost any sense of parental oversight. ( not to mention parental involvement) The news report fails to accurately display parental fault.

Stossel I think accurately reports that it's not money that we need to fix many public schools. It does highlight the Kansas City school district and how when money was boosted by 2 billion dollars. They built new facilities, added new computers, bused "white" kids" in and by 2000 they lost their accreditation. I do believe some public school on many fronts could use an EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY change. He also points out how charter schools are popping up, getting kids from problematic homes but producing great results and 1/3 to 2/3rds the cost of traditional public schools. ( again this is in urban communities) To be fair classroom size is smaller in public Charter schools.

Stossel goes on to report that in wealthier neighborhoods the public schools are much better. Which confused me a bit because of the claim from earlier in regards to suburban schools aren't much better than urban schools.

The report highlights the Belgium educational system. I think this is misleading. I mean yes we can learn something from Belgium's strong educational system. However it's hard to compare countries. They have an estimated population at just over 10 million, America is now over 300 million. Our big country has many more social problems than that tiny little country. He opens this up to school choice and how they're is a lack of good public school choice in many school districts. ( To be fair this isn't the case in all states, cities, or districts) I agree that school choice and competition would make public education better. As competition in the private sector drives down cost and boost service quality.

I think Stossel accurately points out that the status quo isn't the best. We need to change many things in our system. Like the idea of summer. It's outdated it was placed there a long time ago so kids could help on the farm. I think year round school with breaks would suit education better. ( 6 weeks on, two weeks off as an example)

At the end of this report my inclination towards my local public school isn't changed to much. Now if I lived in an urban community I would probably home school or send my kid to a proven charter school. I think Charter schools are wonderful things....giving teachers and administrators the ability to choose strong curriculum and teaching methods that work.

Educational Choice

2010-06-22T09:20:00.001-07:00

Lately I've been talking with my wife in regards to our kids education. Actually the last couple years educational choice for my kids has been a huge area of interest with me. At one point I had decided that either home or private school was right. Then I swung the other way that public school is okay for our family. I've read some great encouraging books for Christian families that choose public school. At one point I could tell you that I was 99.9% sure that public school was our best route.

Today I can say I am about 90% inclined toward the public school direction. At least to me this is a huge issue, it's my kid(s) future I am talking about. Within some church circles this is a hot button issue that at times is really divisive. I just really wanted to take an honest look in all directions, even if I am inclined towards public school. My goal will be to read books,blogs, reviews, etc. about the options out there....public,private, homeschool, and even charter. Looking at home school curriculum's. Parental blogs about families who've made one choice or another. Look up stats, state education standards, etc. Most important I will be praying about this decision. I do believe at the end of the day my kids are God's, so I will be praying for wisdom.

I hope to have guest post by Christian families who've chosen one of the options and how they handle it, the blessings, the trials, etc. I want to take honest looks at public vs private, public vs. home school, etc. I even want to do interviews with willing subjects that I can report on. Looking into the "socialization" arguments/myths. Myths about public school and private school. And valid claims of all three systems. Also the gaps in the systems.

I'll be blogging about my experience and at the end of it report what my family will be choosing. I will not be going negative, hateful or insult anything out there but I will blunt towards all angles of this issue.

Simple family devotions

2010-06-11T06:01:00.001-07:00

It's my view that a father and husband is the spiritual leader of his family. ( note I didn't say spiritual dictator) I believe it's my job to foster the spiritual climate of my home. To lead my wife and kid(s) spiritually, specifically this blog I'll be mentioning what we do as a family in regards to our daughter.

Let me first say Family Devotions did seem daunting to me. I never did see or experience them growing up. So naturally I assumed they had to be really complex. A while back I was encouraged when I listened to a sermon series by Chip Ingram about Christian Fathering. He gave me a simple idea....

Do a family devotion once a week, maybe on Wednesday. Read a verse or two, talk about it, pray about it. So literally that's what we as a family do. We either do devotions after dinner or before bedtime.

We've been doing devotions the last couple of months ( I've missed a few weeks as well to demonstrate my imperfection). Here's how they go.

One thing I want to teach my daughter is that "God made everything." So our first devotion was about that.

I read these verses

"Psalm 19:1-5 ( NLT)

¹ The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.
² Day after day they continue to speak;
night after night they make him known.
³ They speak without a sound or word;
their voice is never heard.
⁴ Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,
and their words to all the world.

God has made a home in the heavens for the sun."

So it went alright. I read the verses, all the while my daughter is singing her "ABC's." I talked just shortly to her saying that God made everything we see. The sky, the birds, the grass, the animals etc. Then we prayed about it as a family, just a short prayer acknowledging and thanking God for everything he made. Throughout the week I talk to her about it. During "rocky" time before bed, or on a car ride where we can see tree's, grass, the sky etc. Simple as that.

My second devotion I really wanted to let her know that God made her. So I read this passage.

^{Psalm 139:14-16}

¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.

¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

¹⁶ your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be

So after the verses I simply said God made Selah. We prayed about it. And all week we talk about it. Now one night I asked her this....I said...."Who made Selah?" to which she replied " Poopy." ( all the while giggling) We all laughed about that. However she also responds correctly sometimes with the answer " God."

In short one other verse I went over last week was Exodus 20:3 ³ “You must not have any other god but me." Told her we aren't to have any other God's, nor anything about him. Also told her that there is only one God. So we prayed about it. We still talk about it this week. I asked her...how many Gods are there? She replies....two.

So you see it doesn't have to long or complex. There is room for silliness. With little kids it's not going to be hugely in depth and most likely they won't pay attention for very long. Nonetheless talk about it with your kid, make it normal and not awkward, faith is just a part of our family, not something we pour in. It will stick with your kids.

One thing I always say to my daughter, and I have taught this...... I'll ask her with my Bible in hand when I am reading it...." What's this?" She replies. "Da Biba" ( biba = bible) Then I'll ask "What's the Bible" she replies "Ga Wor" ( God's word). That is something I want to instill in her.

My child knows that the Bible is important to mom and dad. She knows that mom reads her Bible during her nap time, or at night. She see's that it is important to dad. As it's said...."values are caught, not just taught." So it's important to practice what you preach. To your kids most especially.

These are a few verses down below referring to teaching your kids the faith. I love the beginning of Deuteronomy 6:7 where it says....."impress them on your children."

Deuteronomy 6:6-10 (New International Version)

⁶ These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. ⁷ Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ⁸ Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. ⁹ Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates.

Proverbs 22:6 (New International Version)

⁶ Train a child in the way he should go,
and when he is old he will not turn from it.

I have to live my faith in a way that it will make an impression. I know there aren't any guarantees to how your kids turn out. But I want to raise my kids in such a way that I tried my best. To me passing and instilling Christianity ( my faith) is of utmost importance. I want them to have a good home, nice things, a good education, health care,good experiences, and have good character but teaching them about Christ triumphs.

Books I am excited to read

2010-06-08T04:33:00.000-07:00

I've got these on my reading list. I've read one of these books already but think it's worthwhile to re-read it. I'll try to post a review of each book as I get to reading them. As you can tell they have to do a lot with the theme of my blog. Faith, family, and manhood. Some have to do with engaging the culture and apologetics.

Dads don't babysit

2010-05-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

I've seen this attitude among men, young fathers and husbands. Dad's when we are with our kids by ourselves we aren't somehow going the distance, it's not some extra work to drudge, and it's not something to guilt our wives with.

Shame on the husband who "guilts" his wife if he has to spend time with his kids by himself. Men your wives need breaks too. They need to know it's okay to go out and not have to feel worried that they'll have a complainer of a husband to come home to.

Stand up, be men, love your wife and don't view spending time with your kids as "watching" them. Your their dad not their babysitter.

So next time your wife wants to go out with her girlfriends why don't you try telling her to have a great time and to come back as late as she wants. Adopt the attitude of service and thankfulness that you get to hang out with your kids.

To me adopting this attitude is a way to respect my wife. She is a stay at home mom, and a great mom. I am not perfect at this either to be transparent, but for me not to strive for this attitude would mean I purposefully disrespect my wife. So men step up and serve your wives with adopting this attitude.

Now on the flip side marriage takes respect on both sides. So wives (or husband) don't take your spouse for granted.

Galatians 5:13-14 (New International Version)

¹³You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. ¹⁴The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

Integrity can be lonesome

2010-04-28T13:22:00.001-07:00

While I live it imperfectly, (thus my need for a savior) I do strive to live an authentic Christian life. One category includes my work and work ethic. Lately my morale at work has been suffering. For the mere fact that I really try to let my faith influence my work ethic, my work attitude, how I treat others at work, etc.

I am often the positive oddball at work. Some have treated me with a lot of hostility because of that, some really seem to appreciate it. Nonetheless having integrity for the sake of Christ can be a really lonely thing sometimes. I won't lie that can get to me sometimes.

Anyway I just wanted to share some verses that really encouraged me. They remind me that I am to be different, that I am called to stick out, that integrity bears fruit, and that being in Christ is not going to please people nor always be easy.

It's been a hard year for me at work and I think I will just focus on these verses below to help get me through it. Also yesterday I got a really good annual review which has boosted my morale a bit. Praise God.

Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.

1 Thessalonians 2:4 (NLT)

For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts.

John 15:8 ( NLT)
"If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first."

Ephesians 6: 5 - 8 (NIV)

5Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. 6Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. 7Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, 8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.

Matthew 5:13-16 (New International Version)

Salt and Light

¹³"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.

¹⁴"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Reminded of God's grace

2010-03-29T08:52:00.001-07:00

Jeremiah 29:11 (New Living Translation)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

I had a great reminder of just how good God has been to me. I was on a path to nowhere as a young teenager. Rebellious, drug using, failing in school, depressed, angry, and felt worthless. I recently ran into my "old best friend" from back in the day. This person was the friend I started using drugs with in the first place. At one time this person was like a brother.

I just saw the vast differences in our lives. I have seen where the path we used to share in the past took him in the present, and where it would've taken me. Which really is adult mediocrity.
I can't claim nor boast that I am "better", I can only thank God for changing me and taking me off the course I was on. I am not a rich man, nor a very smart man, but I know I am a blessed man. I can say I am on a better path.

I do know that at anytime my old friend can choose to get off the path he's on. That God can soften his heart and chart a new course in his life. But I genuinely don't know if there will ever be a willingness.

Proverbs 27:19 (New International Version)

¹⁹ As water reflects a face,
so a man's heart reflects the man.

Back to regular blog - Faith and Family Man

2010-03-29T04:41:00.000-07:00

Faith and family man is the original name for my blog.My faith in Christ is the central theme in my life. It effects every level of my life. My work ethic, my family life, how I raise my kids, love my wife, treat others, relate to the world, etc etc. So my blog will be devoted to this worldview, it's the filter for how I view things.

Lent Day 40 - It's been 40 days

2010-03-27T22:56:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who have read. It was on my heart to share my faith in Christ. God changed my heart and I can't help but want to share that with my friends and family. While I think I could write forever on who Christ is in my life , I know this blog can come to a sufficient close. I hope that this has made an impact on how you view Christianity. I hope a sense of gentleness has been evident. I hope I have expressed the reasons for the hope I have. The offers I made for the Josh Mcdowell book "More Than A Carpenter" and the Bible is still good to anyone who would like them.

http://www.youtube.com/user/oneminuteapologist#p/u/30/7U8LF5QuviY

John 3:16-17 (New International Version)

¹⁶"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Lent Day 39 - Authentic Faith part 5

2010-03-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

I always admire people who are consistent with their faith. Praising God in the good and bad times. It's a sign of authenticity to me when I see someone going through a storm in life and they can still cling to there faith. Having a "peace that transcends understanding." Thought this was a cool video displaying that. Thanks for reading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUtFV127i-s

Philippians 4:6-7 (New International Version)
6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 94: 17 - 19 ( NIV)

17 Unless the LORD had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death.
18 When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me.
19 When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.

Lent Day 38 - Powerful Questions, Powerless Answers.

2010-03-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhxURmVl0lQ

We live in a time where the popular religious philosophy is to look to ones self for truth. It's a popular thing to say I am not "religious, but spiritual." That spirituality has no other definition than what the individual wants it to be. We celebrate the SEARCH, the UNCERTAINTY, we only find nobility in spirituality but not spiritual truth. We tend to think truth comes from within, or it is made as we go along. We get to make our own truth, our own way, and our own god. All subjective to our own desires.

If you watch this video this man is suffering. He wants answers, he seems to recognize that truth is not from within. The within part only results in endless questions. What I find profound is that forgiveness can't be found inside ourselves. This need of his soul cannot be met by the "new age" religion/philosophy.

The suffering man says...."I need a real chaplain, who believes in a real God, and a real hell." This man has an outside notion of objective truth beyond himself. The nice but misleading chaplain responds .....

" I hear that you are frustrated, but you need to ask yourself." She guides him back to himself. He frustratingly responds...." NO! I don't need to ask myself!!! I need answers, and all your questions and your uncertainties are only making things worse."

He ends with " I need someone to look me in the eye and tell me how to find forgiveness because I am running out of time."

To me this is such a clear cut case that the human soul ultimately has to look on the outside and they'll see OBJECTIVE truth that's been here since creation. In this case this man sees his desperate need for forgiveness and knows it's not found within himself nor in a chaplain who can only ask questions and give no answers.

I think it's in our nature that we know in our hearts that we are subject to a judgment. If we didn't think that even without a religion per say why do we associate "bad people" with going to hell, and "good people" with going to heaven. We seem to know this by nature.

Ephesians 2:3 ......." by NATURE we were subject to God's wrath."

If there is a Creator, then there is order, and His objective truth is a part of that. If we are as the Bible says " made in the image of God" then we know by instinct what right and wrong is. What justice is, love, mercy, peace, injustice, evil, etc. Mankind has a moral law in their hearts that's in our God given design .The Bible puts it this way.

Romans 2:14-15 (New Living Translation)

14 Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. 15 They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.

A simplification of the above. Many of us know the right thing to do, but how many of us ( myself richly included ) can live up to our ideals on a perfect basis?

Therein lies the problem MANKIND can't save himself. The man in this video demonstrates that his CONSCIENCE (or heart) is against him. He can't look to himself for forgiveness. This man knows the ill of what he did by framing someone and murdering them. He's desperate for this debt of his to be paid. He can't fix it. The truth of grace is not within Him, but from without.

Romans 3:23 (NLT)

23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

Since the fall Adam and Eve, the first humans who rejected God. This has been the thorn in our side and the very thing we deny. That we are sinful. We've made philosophies to ask endless questions, religions to give us a brownie point system, and half truths that tell us we are inherently good. We've made gods in our own image that we can control so we can avoid this. However we all have to face this fact. We are doomed because we can't live up to our own standards let alone God's. This man seems to have a reason to fear, and realizes the eternal consequence.

Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death.....

Wages are something we earn.

Even the Dali Lama, Ghandi, the wisest Hindu, and the most holy Buddhist or Billy Graham is subject to this.

But there is another part to this verse....

......but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord."

Why do we need forgiveness for our sins? Forgiveness requires payment. It's easy for us to think this thought....Why couldn't God just forgive and call it good. Let me give an analogy from Josh McDowell.....paraphrasing...."If my daughter breaks a lamp, I will forgive her, but I still have to bear the cost of replacing that lamp."

In the case of us....God's creation....we needed forgiveness, this man needs forgiveness.... God is a perfect God and he demands a cost.....So God came down and paid it Himself on the cross. Dying a spiritual death, bearing the weight of all our sins past present and future, and making us right with Himself.

This man ask is there a possibility for atonement.....I scream from the mountain tops.....YES THERE IS! I know this because I've experienced it. The basic definition for compensation is for a wrong. We broke it, we messed it up, God himself paid for it, because he knew we could never pay for it.

2nd Cor 5:21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Scripture also says the we were " bought at a price."

Romans 5:8 Romans 5:6-9 (New Living Translation)
6 When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. 7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 9 And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation.

We are forgiven from without, from the source of all truth, from God Himself.

What do we have to do on our part?

1. Express our belief and confess our sins..... " Romans 10:9 (New Living Translation)
9 If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

John 3:16 (New Living Translation)
16 “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

1 John 1:9 (New International Version)
9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

If we come to believe those things scripture says we are new creatures. We've been forgiven of our sins, regardless of what the sins are. This is 100% what I believe this man in the video clip was looking for. I think it's what we either all look for, or all ignore. Thanks for reading, and think about these things. As always I hope I present Christianity in a truthful but gracious manner.

Psalm 103:12 (New Century Version)
12 He has taken our sins away from us as far as the east is from west.

This man was like all of us, struggling to find payment for what he did. Christ already paid the ransom ahead of time.

Lent Day 37 - From the goo, or from the God? A look into the culture wars.

2010-03-25T06:04:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faRlFsYmkeY

(if you like the Simpsons, you'll love this clip of Homer Simpson evolving)

I think there is a massive difference between worldviews in our culture. I will not dive into the politics of the culture wars however, only the two truths behind them.

Dr. James Dobson coined the battle that's going on in our country as this....."Nothing short of a great civil war rages today throughout North America. Two sides with vastly differing and incompatible worldviews are locked in a bitter conflict that permeates every level of society."

Keeping the political issues out of it, it all boils down to truth.

One, the Christian view, the foundation of the west, which says that we were all PURPOSELY created by an infinite Creator. Human lives have value, the soul has worth, and God's word is the truth. A truth which we believe is absolute and based behind God. Life has purpose in glorifying God and this life isn't the end of things. Mankind is literally made in the image of God. The tiniest and weakest among us deserve defending and the eldest deserve respect. Values and truth are part of the natural order of creation, established by a Creator.

The other is called post modernism. With modern roots in the enlightenment, the French revolution, and the philosophy of Darwinian thought and even Nietzsche. This says that mankind is essentially god, truth is defined with the times, and value on life is utilitarian at best. It believes that we were created from nothing, for nothing, and the end result is nothing. The tiny and weak are expedient. Really we can boil this down to nihilism - that which argues that life is without objective meaning, purpose or intrinsic value. Mankind essentially makes it up as they go along. There is nothing, and no higher being to be accountable to.

I point out these two theories at their roots, because it's easy to fight over "pro life" or "pro choice" or " traditional marriage" or "gay marriage" , intelligent design or evolution etc. But we get lost in the politics of it so easily. It's harder but much more respectable to bring the fight over truth. The truth of God vs. the truth of Man.

Boiling it down...... we are either a random chance, with nothing behind our start as humans essentially a product from the gooey pits of sludge ......or we are the product of a purposeful and all wonderful Creator. It's up to us to decide which to follow, but in the end only one option is the truth. ( this is not a popular thing to say in a pluralist society)

If a person believes they are a product of nothingness then the result of that is that life is meaningless. If life is meaningless than our behavior will reflect that. Life has little value, we might as well self destruct, and survival of the fittest beings to make more sense when it comes to operating society.

On a moral level decisions come down to an "the ends justify the means " or " the greatest good for the greatest amount of people."

If life does have purpose than our life reflects that. If we acknowledge a Creator, we then have to be accountable to a creator. We recognize the truth established before we were even born. Life is valuable from the unborn to the death bed. We should enjoy the fine things in life, but not as our fulfillment, because our fulfillment comes from the one who designed us.

To paraphrase Ravi Zacharias ( a well known apologist for the Christian faith) there is indeed meaningfulness in the very statement that life is meaningless. If one professes meaninglessness it's obvious that that is meaningful to them.

From philosophy to religion mankind has sought meaning. Even when man has said there was no meaning they still tried to find meaning. So trying to wipe away meaning is meaningless and ineffective. The kicker with post modern thought is it cannot be honest to the most basic desire of the human soul. That's why those who prescribe to such a worldview work so hard to dilute the valuable gift of life itself. If they can wipe the meaning of life by rejecting that it's intrinsically valuable they at least in their minds feel comfort.

So in short the difference behind the culture wars is .....one believes its self to be a product of the sludge filled gooey pool evolving w/ nothing as it's creator or spark, and the other finds it's worth in a very Divine and Purposeful Creator.

Psalm 139: 13 - 18

13 For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

your works are wonderful,

I know that full well.

15My frame was not hidden from you

when I was made in the secret place.

When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

16your eyes saw my unformed body.

All the days ordained for me

were written in your book

before one of them came to be.

17How precious to^b me are your thoughts, O God!

How vast is the sum of them!

18Were I to count them,

they would outnumber the grains of sand.

When I awake,

I am still with you.

Lent Day 36 - Addicting entanglements

2010-03-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZ_UGaV_OPM

( This is a longer video, about 8 mins, it's also got a weird clip in between these movie clips that I didn't think fit to well. However these clips are from the movie "Fireproof", about a broken marriage with multiple problems, one of them being an addiction to pornography. I think this clip will be worth your time.)

John 10:10 (New International Version)

¹⁰The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

To be very transparent I have the tendency to be a very addictive person. To be short there have been separate times in my life where I have almost become addicted to various habits.

As the video clip suggest.....things like drugs, pornography, gambling, spending addictions, food addictions, workaholism, vain conceit, lying etc. are parasites that drain the life out of marriages, families, friendships, good jobs, great blessings etc.

Everything does seem pleasurable at first. Every addict I've encountered, read about, or heard speak has always said at first they had control. But in the end the addictions ( whatever it was) took control over them. They become a slave to it. The slavery cost them their family or health. It cost them their job and brought only poverty. It led them to do things they never ever would do if they weren't in bondage. Awful things to their kids, the stealing of things to pay for their habit, even the use of their body. They turn us into monsters, so we can feed the master of whatever our soul is. The things that entangle us are the very "thieves that come to steal, kill, and destroy." But Jesus didn't leave it there.... he then said....

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.¹¹"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. ¹²The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. ¹³The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.

¹⁴"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— ¹⁵just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep."

Jesus isn't a "cosmic kill joy." The Christian life is not one of boredom. I don't think I ever had more fun outside of being a Christian. But with like the rules we give our kids, we give out of love and knowing what's best for them. The Bible says we have all gone astray, seeking our own way ( paraphrasing). Not just other religions but seeking pleasure to fulfill us. When we roam in those things, seeking pleasure first we reverse the order yet again. Nothing wrong with pleasure, self esteem, a good work ethic and a good time but out of context it's spells ruin, forgetting the source where are good gifts come from which is God. In the end the things we seek that we become slaves to won't be there for us. When the wealth is gone suddenly friends are gone. When you are strung out suddenly you aren't invited to the parties. When you've insulted everyone you have no bridges to cross. However God will be there, and He can free us, and restore the things in our lives that are broken.

John 8:36 (New International Version)

³⁶So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed

Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)

¹Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

( this is another clip below from the same movie)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUNGW-KyKFk

Lent Day 35 - Giving an answer

2010-03-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/user/oneminuteapologist#p/u/33/GMj3sKKn6a4

( please watch 1 min 28 second video clip)

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

Okay guys I have five more blogs. I wanted to devote this blog to any questions you have. This whole blog has been pointed to sharing my faith in Christ, which is the reason for my hope. While I am not a "Jesus freak" where the gospel message is the only thing I can talk about, HOWEVER the Good News of Jesus has dramatically effected my life. It's the center of my life. When I am down I need God, when I celebrate I thank God, in trials I cling to the hope in Christ, its the spark behind how I raise my kids and love my wife. While I am IMPERFECT the hope I place in Jesus certainly is not.

If you would like to ask a quesiton, easy or tough, heavy hearted or light, I would like to at least try to answer your question. I am not the smartest fish in the sea nor the brightest star in the sky, but I will at least try to find an answer to any questions about the Christian faith. If I don't know I will simply tell you.

Colossians 4:6 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)

6 Your speech should always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.

Lent Day 34 - Authentic part 4 - private life matters

2010-03-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

We live in a day where many believe that private life doesn't matter. As long as they're doing a good job in their public life. ( work, political leaders, etc) I think the Bible is consistent on telling us that our conduct matters at all times. Below is a clip of a family getting ready for church and the dad in this story is a little bit of a tyrant. However once he's in church his "church face" comes on. This could translate into many other areas of our public life.

I am imperfect and privately mess up all the time. But if I were like this dad I would be embittering my family. Eventually my private life would come to life spilling into my public.

Getting to the point the secret things we do or the private way we behave effect us. The drugs we're on eventually effect your work, the drinking problem gets found out, the affair crushes your family and then your reputation, the harsh way we treat our kids gets exposed because you lost your temper at the store, etc etc.

Just don't believe for a second that private life doesn't effect our public life. The video clip is about 6 mins but if you have the time it would be worth it. Thanks for reading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oHm7IB8Uxc

Mark 4:22 (New Living Translation)
22 For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light.

Lent day 33 - Victory = Sunday

2010-03-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday a significant day to Christians. While we worship God everyday, for thousands of years we have gathered on Sunday to celebrate the victory of Jesus over the grave. So in a sense every Sunday is Easter to us, because we always celebrate the resurrected Lord. This video describes it perfectly.

( please watch 3 min 30 sec video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naajYZSbWdw&feature=channel

John 11:25-26 (NIV)

25Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

Romans 4:25-26 (NLT)

25 He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.

1 Corinthians 15:54-55 (New International Version)

When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true:

"Death has been swallowed up in victory."

"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"

56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Lent Day 32 - The story and meaning of Christmas

2010-03-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

Matthew 1:23 (New Living Translation)

“Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’”
( this verse is a reference to what was written in the book of Isaiah about 700 years before Christ)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_PAMiyc9-Y

( please watch video)

Mark 10:45 ( NIV)

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Lent Day 31 - What are works?

2010-03-19T15:20:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YG-nDZMH1H4

In short the Bible teaches two things. That we are saved by God's grace alone, but the Bible teaches that faith w/ out works is a dead faith.

First the Bible clearly states that we are saved by God's grace through our faith.

Ephesians 2:8-10 (New International Version)

8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Titus 3:5 (New Living Translation)

5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.

Second

The Bible states that a faith without works is dead.

James 2:17 (New Living Translation)

So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.

So is this a contradiction? Is the right equation that faith + works = salvation?

I think the two harmonize pretty well. The begining verses written by Paul tell us that our deeds won't save us, and the writer James is telling that simple knowledge of the faith is meaningless without our good works. James, goes on to say that even the demons know who Christ is. Good works are an after effect of our salvation, a piece of evidence that God has done something in our lives and hearts.

How would you view a Christian who made claims of faith and a changed life......but treated others with disrespect, was the most selfish person you knew, and wouldn't help you if you were hanging off a cliff. You probably wouldn't believe his claim, even if you didn't believe in the Christian faith whatsoever. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see a hypocrite.

However if your best friend became a Christian and you saw him/her serving others, giving a listening ear, offering a helping hand etc. You'd begin to believe their claims that something has really changed them. Even if you didn't entirely embrace their faith.

Thus the right and Biblical equation is FAITH = SALVATION + WORKS.

A saving faith produces a heart for good works. Good works don't produce a saving faith. Thinking faith and works are the kicker to salvation only ties us back to a merit based system. We can never do enough good works for that. Thanks for reading.

Galatians 5:6 (NLT)

For when we place our faith in Christ Jesus, there is no benefit in being circumcised or being uncircumcised. What is important is faith expressing itself in love.

Lent Day 30 - Being a christian dad - part 1

2010-03-18T19:21:00.000-07:00

while I am addressing my views on being a dad I want to be very clear that I fall short of being the dad I want to be a lot. So I cannot claim perfection on this. Only declare what I am striving for and tell you that I can only lean on God's grace to " be sufficient for my weaknesses."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htgPh3DalmM&NR=1

( please watch 2 min 41 sec video)

I am just starting out in this whole dad thing. But I can tell you that I am ever mindful how I want to TREAT and Raise my kids. I have seen the end results of two type of dads. One the very harsh fathers who disapprove of their kids, who were overly strict, and authoritarian. To say the least it always sparks rebellion. Or the constant need to be a people pleaser or people fixer.

Another one is the absent father. One who abandons their families. I understand things happen like divorce so I am not entirely addressing divorced fathers. However if abandoned or through a divorce there are huge at risk factors for kids who live in a home without a father. ( please keep in mind I know many dad's do the best they can given divorce situations, there are divorced dads who do embitter their kids and that's who I am addressing) Both choices a dad makes can lead to very destructive paths for their children.

Below are some verses that clearly indicate how fathers should not treat their kids. I take those verses to heart because a father has the ability to set the course for their child's lifetime.

The witness of my faith to my kids will be meaningless if I was a harsh father. The lack of my own integrity would set them up for failure if I were to leave them. I want to have a heart for my kids on purpose. Providing them with a father who approves of them and show's them the way in Christ. A father who can support them, laugh with'em, correct and discipline them. All done with love. Loving my kids will be a no brainer, however it's application isn't always easy. That love will be hard sometimes, but I want to love them with the intent that my fathering will impact them the rest of their lives.

Ephesians 6:4 (New Living Translation)
⁴ Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

Colossians 3:21 (New International Version)

²¹Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Lent Day 29 - The end result of pride

2010-03-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

If you watch this less than a minute video you'll understand this verse so much more. Not a huge MMA fan, don't pay attention to the sport at all, but man this is a great example of this verse. Thanks for reading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90_bXmEOTyQ

Proverbs 16:18 (New International Version)

18 Pride goes before destruction,a haughty spirit before a fall.

Lent Day 27 - Evidence for Jesus

2010-03-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7bXLHOC4Hc

At the end of the day one has to decide by faith if Jesus is who he claimed to be. I think the Christian faith is one of reason and offers extremely great evidence to believe in Jesus.

This is a picture of a book called "More Than a Carpenter." By Josh McDowell. It is a great start to looking into the claims of Jesus. The author, who was a former atheist, came faith after an intense investigation of the facts around Jesus.

I can send a few out. If you'd like a book please let me know. I'll send you one. ( justyns35@hotmail.com)

Matthew 7:7 (NIV)

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

Lent Day 26 - The meaning of Easter

2010-03-14T06:48:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wn6BQ0W4K2U

( please watch short video clip)

Matthew 28: 5 - 6 ( NLT)

Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying.

Day 25 - We worship ourselves and material - False religion part 2

2010-03-12T19:39:00.000-08:00

My great grandma used to tell my dad ...."Bobby....don't build sand castles in the wind." Meaning don't chase things that don't mean anything.

Below is a great music video by Casting Crowns called the American Dream.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DumlIIHSrsQ

"When he does not find God, man will fill the void in his heart with anything he can find." A.W. Tozer

There is the old cliche phrase that says " whoever dies with the most toys wins. " No doubt we have the tendency to chase possessions, wealth, social status, that next promotion, that bigger house etc. But in the end the religious pursuit of them will not fill the void. Men especially bury themselves in professional pursuits that they end up all alone because they have neglected God and his true gifts like family for example. Women can also pursue material at the expense of embittering husbands and kids.

That is not to say wealth is bad, nor nice things. However when those are our number one pursuits it shows. We neglect our health, our family, and the God of the universe to build our own castles. When in the end you can't bring anything you've earned or accumulated in this life onto the next. Even if you get buried with them.

Once again mankind, (myself richly included) reverses the order when we celebrate ourselves rather than thanking God for what he's given us.

Matthew 16:25 - 26 ( NIV)

For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?

Luke 16:13 (NLT)

No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."

Mark 10: 17 - 31 ( NIV) this is a bit long, but put it here if you care to read.

The Rich Young Man

17As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
18"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. 19You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother."
20"Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy."
21Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
22At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!"
24The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
26The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?"
27Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."
28Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!"
29"I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel 30will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life. 31But many who are first will be last, and the last first."

Lent Day 24 - We reverse the order - False Religion part 1

2010-03-12T05:07:00.000-08:00

Jonah 2:8(NIV)

Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs.

(please watch video of this religous experince)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElJFYwRtrH4

"It is entirely possible to have a relgious experience without God, and even reject the God of the Bible." - A.W. Tozer

Mankind since the ancient times has looked to the things created and seen something divine in them, but have given credit to the creation rather than the Creator. You can go back to any ancient society and see worship of birds, reptiles, snakes, the stars, the sun, and the moon. Even going so far as to make them "god's or deities" themselves.

While paganism isn't in the same shape it was in ancient times. It can be well argued that todays "environmental movement" is a religious movement itself. With it's roots in paganism or worship of the earth. Closely related to this is the animal rights movements. Placing animals above the Creator, and even placing animals above humans ......who are God's prized creation.

Here is an excerpt from a guy named Michael Crichton in an article he wrote that made some news a while back......( I am fairly certain he isn't a christian, but he makes great points)

Today, one of the most powerful religions in the Western World is environmentalism. Environmentalism seems to be the religion of choice for urban atheists. Why do I say it's a religion? Well, just look at the beliefs. If you look carefully, you see that environmentalism is in fact a perfect 21st century remapping of traditional Judeo-Christian beliefs and myths.

There's an initial Eden, a paradise, a state of grace and unity with nature, there's a fall from grace into a state of pollution as a result of eating from the tree of knowledge, and as a result of our actions there is a judgment day coming for us all. We are all energy sinners, doomed to die, unless we seek salvation, which is now called sustainability. Sustainability is salvation in the church of the environment. Just as organic food is its communion, that pesticide-free wafer that the right people with the right beliefs, imbibe.

http://www.crichton-official.com/speech-environmentalismaseligion.html

( all in all it goes back to a previous blog where it's essentially a religion of works, not grace, for some reason everything created by man has to be a passage by our works)

We as humans recognize the BEAUTY and VALUE of created things. However one form of "false religion" is neglecting the God behind them, and giving glory to creation instead.

Romans 1:25 ( NIV)

25They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.

Lent Day 23 - Our own way

2010-03-11T19:29:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USyIWyhKtc8

The prophet Isaiah wrote this about 680 years before Christ. This is a prophecy referring to Jesus. I thought these were fitting verses given this video clip. Thanks for reading.

Isaiah 53:5-6 (NIV)
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Below is a link to the whole chapter ( NIV or NLT)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2053&version=NIV
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2053&version=NLT

Lent Day 28 - How can a loving God send someone to hell?

2010-03-11T05:25:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7n99WNb87M

( watch video if you'd like)

This is a tough issue, it's tough to understand. It's another hot button issue that makes many people never even look towards the Christian faith. People can think that God is a mean judge, full of hate and intolerance, why would he send his creation to such an awful place?

Let me be clear....I will never preach to anyone that they're going to hell. Rather I'd tell you that heaven is the wonderful consequence for believing in Christ as your savior. I am not in the business of scaring people into heaven. Fear doesn't work, it doesn't stick. Nonetheless the issue of hell is a very real one and as with other tough topics I can't shy away from it. Hell to me is as real as Heaven. Since my purpose was to share my faith this is part of it.

I may lose some readership at this point and I understand. Just know that this is not a radical or mean rant. While I am blunt about what the Bible says, it is my clear aim to speak the truth in love.

First what is hell? hell is essentially what we all deserve. We've all done wrong by God, our sins are something he can't stand.

Who Goes to Hell? Those who don't believe in Christ and trust Him for the forgiveness of their sins.

John 3:36 (New International Version)

³⁶Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him."

Why? Our sin's separate us from God. Just as our crimes separate us from freedom or society.

Isaiah 59:2 (New Living Translation)

² It’s your sins that have cut you off from God.
Because of your sins, he has turned away
and will not listen anymore.

Ephesians 2:1-5 (New International Version)

¹As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, ²in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. ³All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature^a]"> and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. ⁴But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, ⁵made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.

I think scripture is pretty clear that God desires no one to go to hell. Which is eternal separation from Him.

Ezekiel 18:32 (NIV)

³² For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!

Ezekiel 33:11 (New Living Translation)

¹¹ As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?

2 Peter 3:9-10 (New International Version)

⁹The 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.

I was taught by a teacher I had at Boys Town High school in regards to the question...."How can a loving God send someone to hell?" He turned it around and asked us this....."How can a loving God force someone into heaven?" God loves us enough to give us free will, we are his creation, the only ones in all creation with a conscience free will. We all have the right to choose to reject or accept God, the offer he made through Jesus, or we can choose other faiths or lack thereof.

I can't think of a much more loving thing. We aren't robots in God's eyes, God doesn't force us to love Him or accept Him. In order for love to be love it cannot be compulsory.

What Jesus did on the Cross :

1 Peter 2:24-25 (New International Version)

²⁴He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. ²⁵For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Romans 5:8-9 (NIV)

⁸But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

⁹Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!

The Answer: Hell or Heaven is completely up to us. It takes our belief in Him. Let me be clear my faith is not a get out of hell free card. It's an abundant life card from the time I accepted Christ at age 15 to now at 28. Not that I have a perfect life, but whatever I go through I know I have Christ to cling on. He's instilled a hope in me that can't be moved.

Nonetheless the Bible is clear that there are natural and logical consequences for those who CHOOSE to reject Christ. I gently say the Bible because this is what it says I can't claim that this is my teaching.

John 3:16-17 (HCSB)

¹⁶ "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ For God did not send His Son into the world that He might judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.

Other questions : Why are we punished for Adams sin?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAiTeCcU6SE

What about those who've never heard about Jesus?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj4ZTHdHoKs

Lent Day 22 - An ice cream date

2010-03-10T07:10:00.000-08:00

You know I really just wanted to stay home and work a few things tonight. Including this blog. After watching this 4 min video clip I was really inspired that it would be a better use of my time to take my family out for ice cream and come back to this later. Anway Enjoy the video, it's a tear jerker, not because it's hype but because it's true. It just encourageed me to think that my days are a numbered gift from God and to use them wisely. Thanks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvAR-ouCCpo

Psalm 39:4 (King James Version)
4LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am.

Psalm 139:16 (New International Version)
16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

Lent Day 21 - Do all religions teach the same thing?

2010-03-09T04:58:00.000-08:00

What I am about to write sparks some controversary. It's about Jesus being the only way. Please know I won't be bashing your religion or lack thereof. However this is an issue of my faith in Christ and at all cost I can't shy away from discussing it.

C.S. Lewis once said in regards to Jesus that he is either a "liar, lunatic, or Lord." Basically suggesting that because of the claims Jesus made you have to personally come up with that equation.

Jesus does something to the heart. Say the name to yourself and I have no doubt is stirs something in it. Think about it we can talk about religious philosophies, Buddha, Ghandi, Mohammad with out to much controversy. However if Jesus is brought up there seems to automatically be an inner tension.

We live in a pluralistic society. A society that says there are many truths, many ways, and that all religions lead to the same thing. However Jesus made a pretty bold statement and I think we have to deal with it. He said....

John 14:6 (NIV)
6Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

I use the COEXIST emblem because I see it all the time as a bumper sticker on peoples car. I think it has multiple meanings. The first meaning that all "faiths" are the same. The second part being that we should all get along. I agree with the second part of that....Christians are called to live at peace . Romans 12:18 (NLT) Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

However a Christian cannot accept the first half of the meaning that all ways are equal. Please don't get me wrong....other religions have some very nice things in them....regarding social justice, kindness, good morals etc. Those things are nice in and of themselves but miss the complete mark or capital T of Truth.

A follower of Christ however can only accept the very things that Jesus said. That He is the only way to know God, to recieve salvation or rescue from sins. For me as a follower of Christ, the meaning of the cross would be gone if I thought there were others ways. On the cross the Bible says that He died once for all, there wasn't a need for others ways. If there were other ways there would be no need for cross to be sufficient to cover all mankind.

1 Peter 3:18 (NIV)

"For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God........."

Hebrews 9:26 (New Living Translation)

26 If that had been necessary, Christ would have had to die again and again, ever since the world began. But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.

So the claim is very bold, it sparks controversary or discomfort in the soul, it leaves no wiggle room for other ways and at the end of the day...... one has to decide if Jesus was a "liar, lunatic, or Lord."

As always thank you for reading. Below is a link a little over 3 mins.

"Do all religions basically teach the same thing."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5D9AuMsUtc

Lent Day 20 - Do you want a Bible?

2010-03-08T08:38:00.001-08:00

You know we are at the half way point of this blog. At this point I simply just want to put my money where my mouth is. If there is anyone who would like a Bible I would love to get you one. Below is an option of 2 Bibles (one in which is just New Testament) which I think are great for the spiritually curious. I pick these two Bibles because they have notes in them that compliment the text and help explain what you are reading and what the Christian faith is.

If you would like one, I'll send you one. You can give me your address here, my email.... justyns35@hotmail.com or message me on facebook. For the sake of prudence I can only send out 10 to 15 Bibles.

The point of my blog has been to share my faith. Halfway through I can't think of a better way to share it than to offer the source of my faith. What I believe to be God's word. So if you'd like one take me up on the offer. Thanks for reading.

This an awesome New Testament Bible. It's paperback and compact. So it's easy to fit into a bag or purse. Anyway there are notes in it that are kind of geared towards reasons why you should give Christ a serious look. It's also the New Living Translation which is an easier text to read and understand. It reads at about a 6.3 grade level.

This is a full Bible, Old and New Testament. It's a Bible really designed for those who are really in a investigation mode. It's a bit more intense as far as supplement notes and things to think about. It's the New International Version , which is the most popular translation in the U.S. It reads at about an 8th grade reading level.This is not a small Bible like the one up above.

On another note if you just want a plain non-themed Bible I will send you one. It will be a compact Bible in one of the above translations. Sometimes it's just good to discover what the Bible says without a Bible geared towards a point. In this case spiritual curiosity.

Hebrews 4:12 ( NIV)
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Lent Day 19 - Authentic part 3 - Plastic Jesus

2010-03-06T12:15:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Expao2nWdAU

( please watch video)

This video reminds me of the below verses. Even if people disagree with the Christian faith. I think someone can tell if they are genuine or not by how they live and what they value. Even in the hard or dry times of a persons life. Thanks for reading.

John 15:4-6 (New International Version)

4Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
5"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.

Lent Day 18 - The church is not a country club

2010-03-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvillcVbqiU

( please watch 4 min video if you can, it's really a satire of our pre-conditions we church goers can have a people.)

Just to add AGAIN there are no prerequisites for God's love. To often the followers of Jesus, myself included, have added preconditions on just who is "lovable" and who isn't.

To often churches have been a country club. Where you have to appear a certain way, pretend like you're perfect, and admit to no failures. You just can't come as you are. If you do there are plenty of people who will "clean you up. " Or all together they'll shy away from you because you may be rough around the edges. I am not perfect at loving, there are times when I wrongly judge. However it's my aim to love anyone for where they are at and let God do the rest. After all while I believe my faith in Christ to be a saving one, I also believe it's not me who saves them but the Grace of God. In the end it's up to the individual to decide to take His grace or not. However I am still commanded to love regardless if you accept it or not. Thanks for reading.

Matthew 5:46-48 (New Living Translation)

46 If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47 If you are kind only to your friends,

how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that.

* eventually I plan on writing a blog on Christians and boundaries.

Lent Day 17 - Faith Like a child

2010-03-05T04:22:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCdZwitrNoY

( please watch short video)

My daughter often loves to run off the couch or our bed right into daddy's arms. Knowing full well her daddy will catch her. No if's and's or butts. While God isn't asking us to run off physical cliffs he does ask us to place our faith in His hands.

Matthew 18:2-4 (New International Version)

²He called a little child and had him stand among them. ³And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. ⁴Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (New Living Translation)

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
⁶ Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.

Matthew 19:13-16 (New International Version)

The Little Children and Jesus

¹³Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them.

¹⁴Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." ¹⁵When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.

Lent Day 16 - What's so different about Christianity?

2010-03-04T04:39:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFgfBE42a6M

(please watch 3 min video if you can)

What does the Bible say about our works?

Isaiah 64:6 (New Living Translation)
6 We are all infected and impure with sin. When we display our righteous deeds, they are nothing but filthy rags. Like autumn leaves, we wither and fall, and our sins sweep us away like the wind.

To keep this extremely short...." The Buddhist have the eight fold path, the Hindu's have a doctrine of Karma, the Jews have a Covenant, and the Muslim's have a code of Law- each offers a way to earn approval." Christianity has NO WAY or System of works to earn us a spot in heaven. Rather it is by the GRACE of God alone. Our only work is to believe in what Jesus did. To put it another way we are "saved by faith."

I am grateful for grace because I can't live a life where my "good deeds" outweigh my "bad deeds." I'd go nuts with worry always wondering if I have deposited enough good deeds to offset my bad. A system of works never offers any "assurance" of a better reincarnation, after life, etc. Only the constant fear that you didn't do good enough. Jesus on the other hand lived that perfect life I can't ever live, and on the cross he said " it is finished." That's another reason why my hope is in Him and not myself w/ all my merits.

Ephesians 2:8-10 (New International Version)

8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Titus 3:5 (New Living Translation)

5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.

John 3:16 (New International Version)
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

* I will go into another blog of what good works are to a Christian.

Lent Day 15 - The Wrong part of Judgement

2010-03-03T13:06:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HvQ9JLobA0

( please watch short video before reading blog)

You know one wrong judgement against someone else can change the whole course of their life. That's what happened in this video clip. If you have a story you'd like to share regarding how someone has judged you feel free to share. How did it alter your life?

I am a firm believer that the hurting and confused don't need our condemnation. I think any of us that have ever being hurting, confused or just in a bad spot feel the gravity of our situation anyway. Pointing a finger, denying someone, or judging as if we are "better" only builds spite, mistrust, and weighs heavily on the heart. Imagine if we ( I speak to Christians on this the most) offered grace? A hug, a cup of coffee and conversation, praying with someone, a listening ear, or an invitation to hang out etc. It would go a long long way. Showing grace always does.

Haven't always demostrated this idea. As I grow in my faith I am more aware that I have no choice but to practice this. Even if I will never be perfect at it. If I can leave you with a thought......God loved us first, no pre-requirements. Christians should follow suit.

1 John 4:9-10 (New Living Translation)
9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.

Lent Day 14 - When I say I am a Christian

2010-03-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 12:9 (New International Version)

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

Not having the best night. Just really tired and grumpy. AKA short temper and negative. I ran into this poem the other day by accident and really loved it. When I say I am a Christian I certainly don't say that I am strong, go it figured it out, or close to perfect. Rather ....the longer I am a Christian ( now almost 13 years) I know how desperately I need the grace of God in my life. I can build my hope on "nothing less."

When I Say "I Am A Christian"
by Carol Wimmer
When I say..."I am a Christian"I'm not shouting "I am saved"I'm whispering "I get lost!""That is why I chose this way.

"When I say..."I am a Christian"don't speak of this with pride.I'm confessing that I stumbleand need someone to be my guide.

When I say..."I am a Christian"I'm not trying to be strong.I'm professing that I'm weakand pray for strength to carry on.

When I say..."I am a Christian"I'm not bragging of success.I'm admitting I have failedand cannot ever pay the debt.

When I say..."I am a Christian"I'm not claiming to be perfect,my flaws are too visiblebut God believes I'm worth it.

When I say..."I am a Christian"I still feel the sting of painI have my share of heartacheswhich is why I seek His name.

When I say..."I am a Christian"I do not wish to judge.I have no authority.I only know I'm loved.

Lent Day 13 - Nietzsche or Jesus part 2 - Kingdom Reverse

2010-03-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

Christianity has waged a war to the death against this higher type of man. . . . Christianity has taken the side of everything weak, base, ill-constituted, it has made an ideal out of opposition to the instinct of strong life. . . . Christianity is a revolt of everything that crawls along the ground directed against that which is elevated.- Friedrich Nietzsche

To quickly contrast this quote by Nietzsche I would like to offer this passage in the Bible.

1 Corinthians 1:27 - 29 (NIV)

But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.

To expand some thoughts on Nietzsche's philosophy and views on the Christian faith I'll yet again borrow from the book "What's So Amazing About Grace" by Phillip Yancey. "Friedrich Nietzsche accused the Christian church as having "taken the side of everything weak, base, ill-constituted." He scorned a religion of pity that thwarted the law of evolution and its rules favoring power and competition. Nietzsche put his finger on the scandal of grace, a scandal that he traced back to "God on the cross."

It goes on to say....." The Christian knows to serve the weak not because they deserve it but because God extended his love to us when we deserved the opposite. Christ came down from heaven, and whenever his disciples entertained dreams of prestige and power he reminded them that the greatest is the one who served. The ladder of power reaches up, the ladder of grace reaches down." ( pg 266)

Philippians 2:6-11 (New Living Translation)

"Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

This is the fundamental example on what Christians while imperfect .....can love the most "unDarwianian" or weak characters. I can think of nothing or no one that is stronger or has more claim to a throne than Jesus. His demonstration is completely opposite of how we'd think a king would act, let alone the God of the universe. In our culture we honor the strong, envy the beautiful, worship the talented, and imitate our idols.

Yet Jesus demonstrated a "kingdom in reverse." Though He was God he didn't hold onto his rights. Dying for the unlovely in heart, and using the weak for His glory. Dying so that we might be saved. I believe this with all my heart, I don't fully understand it either. It's hard to grasp. The "wise" don't understand it because it's not logical , why would the strongest make themselves nothing? The "religious" don't understand it because it's not a fancy miracle. Why would an all awesome God NOT remain beautiful for His own sake?

1 Corinthians 1:23 (New International Version)
23but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles,

I guess that's "What's So Amazing About Grace." I can think of nothing more in expressing to you that you are worth something. Even if the world says your not, even if you say you're not. God thought otherwise, was beaten brutally, crucified on our behalf. He lived a perfect life to do the work we were to weak to do. It doesn't seem fair that the strongest would save the weakest. That's the "beauty of grace", it's not fair. Christianity only wages war on the worlds rule of strength because Jesus did. This could never be an invention of man.

Isaiah 53:5 (New International Version)
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

John 10:7-11 (New International Version)
7Therefore Jesus said again, "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. 10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
11"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

( below is a link to a song I really like called " The Shepherd is the Lamb." , not required for this blog, but a great addition if you've got 5 mins)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PkclCQOJBE

Lent Day 12 - It's okay to laugh

2010-02-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love the barriers Jesus breaks. Racial, social, economic. That anyone can worship Him. That culture doesn't stop the true worship of Him. Below is a funny clip on the difference between a black and white church. This may be in house humor I don't know. Thought a little humor would lighten the blog a bit. Thanks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XU-0BoLeis

Galatians 3:28 (New Living Translation)
28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Lent Day 11 - Authenticity part 2 - If Christopher Hitchens can recognize you.

2010-02-26T14:40:00.000-08:00

Below is a great short video clip that even those who don't believe in Christ can separate those who truly believe in Christ , from those who claim to be christian but ignore what the Bible says. I think this does point out what "authentic" faith in Jesus is as opposed to unauthentic. Enjoy the short clip, and thank you for reading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B5BemlHdIM

Romans 1:16-17 (New International Version)

16I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."

* the word gospel literally means "good news."

Luke 9:26 (New Living Translation)
26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels.

lent Day 10 - Authenticity part 1

2010-02-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

(please watch short video clip)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GI_7tZg-vI&feature=related

People know when someone is authentic or not. People know if you treat them like a trophy or not. I am not shy about my faith, my friends believers and non know I am a Christian. But what use is my friendship to those who don't believe like me if I simply want to win them to what I believe. That's interest in me not them.

Proverbs 17:17 (New International Version)
17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

I wanna be a friend thick or thin. It is my genuine hope my friends and family will come to the faith I embrace, but even if they don't I want to love'em.

Colossians 4:6-7 (New Living Translation)
6 Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.

I don't want to give canned answers either. Life isn't a script why should my faith be one.

Believe me I have failed so many times at being genuine and have failed at being the type of friend I should be. So don't get me wrong I certainly can't toot my own horn.

Lent Day 9 - Do you love gay people?

2010-02-25T14:14:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRPieL7BeS0

( to get the frame of reference I am coming from, please watch short video)

Do you love gays? That's the question I'll answer. My answer is Yes. Now I know this is a hot button issue. I will not go into the politics on this. My first point will be to define what the Bible thinks of homosexuality. I will not be preaching or lecturing anyone who is a homosexual or who agrees with homosexuality. I am simply showing what the Bible has to say.

My second point will be how I .....as a Christian respond to a homosexual. Plus the wrongs and rights in how the church at wide has treated homosexuals.

First let me say that I am not going to point out homosexuals as these "supreme sinners" because all of us....are equal in terms of sin.

Romans 3:23 (New Living Translation)
23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

Let me be very clear in saying that I do believe the Bible and it's standards on what homosexuality is. What does the Bible have to say about it as far as it being a sin? I'll comment more after each verse is read.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (New Living Translation)
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. 11

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.

Scripture is pretty clear that Homosexuality is sin ( along with many other things mentioned) but it's also clear that scripture says one can change! Not just from a sexual lifestyle but from sin's grip all together.

Romans 1:26-27 (New International Version)
26Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.

The above verses do not leave it open to suggestion that the Bible says the homosexual lifestyle is not natural. Romans chapter 1 is essentially summed up in how we traded God's TRUTH for our own "truth."

2. How do I as a Christian respond to a person who is homosexual.

Well I first ask what would the Bible or Jesus have me do?

Matthew 7:12-13 (New International Version)

12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Christians haven't always lived up to this standard. Especially in the face of politics and "culture wars." Some have ungraciously forgotten RESPECT.

Matthew 5:46-48 (New International Version)
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

I have to admit I am really good at loving those like minded with me. While I am imperfect at it I strive to love others who aren't like me even if I disagree with them.

Philippians 4:5 (New International Version)
5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

It doesn't say ....let your gentleness be evident to some, or to those who agree w/ you......but to ALL.

Ephesians 4:15 (New Living Translation)
15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

As Christians we do have standards , but there is a way to present them.....which often disagree with the secular culture......in grace and love. To often those in the church at large forgets to do that.

3. How the church responds to homosexuality.

1 - Extreme hatred - Fred Phelps is a pastor out of Topeka, KS. He and his followers go around protesting with signs saying things like "Fags burn in hell", "God damn America" , etc. If you look at the above examples this isn't right.

2 - Balanced approach - Augustine I believed coined the phrase " Love the sinner and hate the sin." Many or most churches I think strive for this. Loving homosexuals but not accepting the lifestyle.

In my own life I have a few interactions with people who are gay. We talk a lot and know we have our vast differences, but there is a deep respect between us. Just because someone is gay doesn't mean they don't have genuine hurts and experiences. One person I talk with on a regular basis has all but been shunned by her "christian" family, and i think to myself how could they be like that. Christian or not your kid is your kid. I can't lie it would be difficult for me if I had a kid in a situation like that, but I would never deny my flesh and blood. Anyway even if this person never comes to agreeing with me about Jesus etc. at the very least they know I am genuine about trying to show Jesus through grace.

3 - Siding on the error of grace or totally denying the Bible.

Many liberal denominations have openly embraced homosexuality and ignored anything the Bible has to say on the issue. Anglicans, Episcopals, a branch of Lutheran, and some in the United Methodist Church. To me that's as equally wrong as # 1. If you look at the above examples in scripture again 1 and 3 aren't right.

Thank you for reading. I hope I approached this with gentleness and respect. This is an aspect of faith and a pretty divisive issue in our culture. Again my point was to present the biblical case for its view on homosexuality, but also a biblical case for how homosexuals should be treated. Again I don't zero in on them as these super sinners, but I zero in on the topic because it's a big one in our day.

Lent Day 8 - Life is short

2010-02-24T08:21:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uu8456pVSLI

(The video above is a great example of just how short life is.)

Yeah this blog is a little depressing. Death or lifes shortness is hard to think about. However I think there is wisdom in remembering that we aren't here forever. The verses below really indicate just how short life is, and the wisdom in thinking that we one day won't be here.

Psalm 89:47-48 (New International Version)
47 Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all men!
48 What man can live and not see death, or save himself from the power of the grave. Selah

Ecclesiastes 5:15 (New Living Translation)
15 We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can’t take our riches with us.

Psalm 90:12 (New International Version)
12 Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Ecclesiastes 12:6-7 (New International Version)
6 Remember him—before the silver cord is severed, or the golden bowl is broken;before the pitcher is shattered at the spring, or the wheel broken at the well,
7 and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.

Psalm 39:4-5 (NIV)

4 "Show me, O LORD, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life.
5 You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Each man's life is but a breath.

Selah

Lent Day 7 - An affair, divorce, a new marriage

2010-02-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 147:3 (NIV) He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

I do believe God can heal the broken hearted, situations, and mend shattered pieces.

As always testimony speaks for itself. Thanks for following the blog. Please click on link below.

http://iamsecond.com/#/seconds/The_Scruggs/

Lent Day 6 - Nietzche or Jesus?

2010-02-22T05:45:00.001-08:00

This is an excerpt from Phillip Yancy's book called "What's So Amazing About Grace."

"In his autobiography, the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche told of his ability to "smell" the inmost parts of every soul, especially the "abundant hidden dirt at the bottom of many a character." Nietzsche was a master of ungrace. We (Christians) are called to do the opposite, to smell the residue of hidden worth."

I am not always the best at finding the worth in anyone. I strive to be like that but would be a liar if I told that its easy for me. In short I am reminded of a God who found me a sinner to have worth, so much so that he died for me when I didn't deserve it. I want to reflect that kind of love in my life. This is one reason why Christ is out of this world, because even in our failures we are still of great worth to Him.

Romans 5:6-9 (NIV)

6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Lent Day 5 - Testimony

2010-02-19T20:10:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

The video clip speaks for itself. Have a great day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzzqtO7vGVw

Faith and Family Man

Truth

Romans 8:7-8 (NIV)

7 the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.

Ecclesiastes 7:29 (NIV)

"This only have I found: God made mankind upright, but men have gone in search of many schemes."

Church is not a country club - Lent Day 16

In line for the March of the Unqualified - Lent Day 14

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV)

2 Corinthians 3:5 (NLT)

Romans 7:21-25 (New International Version)

Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

Blessings and Trials- Lent Day 12

'Spartan' - Lent Day 11

The Gap of Eternity- Lent Day 10

30 Days to Live - Larry's Story - Lent Day 8

Judged - Lent Day 7

Do I Love Gay People? Lent Day 6

Cosmogony - Origin of the Universe - Lent Day 3

JW's At My Door - Lent Day 2 - authentic faith

Jesus Wants the Rose, Lent Day 1

Encouraging Unity Among the Educational "Camps"

Extra Grace People

James 2:1 (NIV)

The Choice of Gossip

Leaving the NIV?

Santa at our house

Wedding Ring

Burning the Koran?

False Teacher # 1 - Jon Crowder

History and Public School

Homeschool stat number 2, my issue with academics

Music Therapy part 2 - "Therapy" by Relient K

Homeschool stat # 1 my issue w/ spiritual claims

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (NIV)

Ephesians 6:4 (NLT)

Psalm 78:4-7 (New International Version)

Deuteronomy 11:19 (NLT)

part of a letter I wrote to a Latter Day Saint friend

The Education Decision

Song Series part 1 - "Spartan" by FIF

2 Corinthians 6:3-6 (NLT)

Paul’s Hardships

If moms got paid....

My son is here.

Educational Choice - Where I am at.

Book Review # 3 - "Going Public: Your Child Can Thrive in Public School."

Sex Education in Montana for Kids in Kindergarten

flip flopper

Guest Blog # 3 Why We Homeschool

Why We Homeschool

Good sites for looking into homeschool

5 top reasons not to choose public school

Guest Blog # 2 Christ vs. Public School Debate

I genuinely loved the fair look into this issue by this blogger.

The Christian School vs. Public School Debate

Guest Post # 1 - Public School Does Not Equal bad parents

Public School Does NOT Equal Bad Parents

UNSCHOOLING

Proverbs 22:6 (New International Version)

Proverbs 22:6 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)

6 Teach a youth about the way he should go;

Homeschool Curriculum

An encouraging quote

"Helping your Child Succeed in Public School" By Cheri Fuller

First book review - "Family Driven Faith" By Voddie Baucham

Stupid in America

Educational Choice

Simple family devotions

Deuteronomy 6:6-10 (New International Version)

Proverbs 22:6 (New International Version)

Books I am excited to read

Dads don't babysit

Galatians 5:13-14 (New International Version)

Integrity can be lonesome

Matthew 5:13-16 (New International Version)

Salt and Light

Reminded of God's grace

Proverbs 27:19 (New International Version)

Back to regular blog - Faith and Family Man

⁷ the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. ⁸ Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.

⁶ Teach a youth about the way he should go;

¹Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Ephesians 6:4 (New Living Translation)
⁴ Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.