Kate's Chosen

It's About the Contradictions,

2007-05-25T18:52:00.001-07:00

Jen's claims about reconciliation with Doug Phillips/BCA are a fraud:"Jen lied may 14th/blog: You didn’t go to Arlington to "reconcile" with DP.Angela said this, "Vengence is mine saith the Lord, I will repay".Jen said, "Angela, how is seeking reconciliation taking vengeance? I went there truly seeking reconciliation."But you said clearly on 3/7/07 this,Question to Jen: "according to the people who used to be in church with you (BCA). The whole premise of your wordpress blog is one of exposing Doug Phillips. This will be done by you until when?" Jen: "Until Doug repents."Question: "You have him groveling at your feet?"Jen: Repentance would include a hug, probably.Jen: I have no desire to bring down Doug Phillips and Vision Forum. I think Doug has a lot to offer the Christian homeschooling community and I wish him nothing but the best in his ministry – after he repents. I pray that God would bless Doug Phillips and all that he does – after he repents.So, you see, she states that she’s calling for reconcilation on one comment, then another comment she states she’s calling Doug to repentence, then her blog is up for the "exposure" of Doug and "warning" others.---"Jen,You'd like to get others to believe that you have been "all about the reconciliation with Doug Phillips" until recently, with your disruption at the Arlington conference. That's a lie."One thing that came to mind the other day about this story:"It must be a difficult thing to have to constantly be at war with someone, for years, always being in a position of having "aught" against someone who, incidentally, is probably living quite well, frankly. He has probably moved on, enjoyed his family, enjoyed fellowship and perhaps he’s even learned some very valuable, spiritually growing lessons. He may come to be much more careful with dealing with angry, embittered individuals. He may even have built up some internal checkpoints to know when to nip something early in the bud, before it becomes a very ugly mess. I’m sure he and his family have learned and grown from these experiences."Read the rest here:

It's About the Contradictions

2007-05-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

Jen's claims about reconciliation with Doug Phillips/BCA are a fraud:

"Jen lied may 14th/blog: You didn’t go to Arlington to "reconcile" with DP.

Angela said this, "Vengence is mine saith the Lord, I will repay".
Jen said, "Angela, how is seeking reconciliation taking vengeance? I went there truly seeking reconciliation."

But you said clearly on 3/7/07 this,

Question to Jen: "according to the people who used to be in church with you (BCA). The whole premise of your wordpress blog is one of exposing Doug Phillips. This will be done by you until when?"
Jen: "Until Doug repents."
Question: "You have him groveling at your feet?"
Jen: Repentance would include a hug, probably.

Jen: I have no desire to bring down Doug Phillips and Vision Forum. I think Doug has a lot to offer the Christian homeschooling community and I wish him nothing but the best in his ministry – after he repents. I pray that God would bless Doug Phillips and all that he does – after he repents.

So, you see, she states that she’s calling for reconcilation on one comment, then another comment she states she’s calling Doug to repentence, then her blog is up for the "exposure" of Doug and "warning" others.

---

"Jen,You'd like to get others to believe that you have been "all about the reconciliation with Doug Phillips" until recently, with your disruption at the Arlington conference. That's a lie."

One thing that came to mind the other day about this story:

"It must be a difficult thing to have to constantly be at war with someone, for years, always being in a position of having "aught" against someone who, incidentally, is probably living quite well, frankly. He has probably moved on, enjoyed his family, enjoyed fellowship and perhaps he’s even learned some very valuable, spiritually growing lessons. He may come to be much more careful with dealing with angry, embittered individuals. He may even have built up some internal checkpoints to know when to nip something early in the bud, before it becomes a very ugly mess. I’m sure he and his family have learned and grown from these experiences."

Read the rest here:

It's About the Contradictions

2007-05-25T13:35:00.000-07:00

Jen's claims about reconciliation with Doug Phillips/BCA are a fraud:

"Jen lied may 14th/blog: You didn’t go to Arlington to "reconcile" with DP.

Angela said this, "Vengence is mine saith the Lord, I will repay".
Jen said, "Angela, how is seeking reconciliation taking vengeance? I went there truly seeking reconciliation.

"But you said clearly on 3/7/07 this,

Question to Jen: "according to the people who used to be in church with you (BCA). The whole premise of your wordpress blog is one of exposing Doug Phillips. This will be done by you until when?"
Jen: "Until Doug repents."
Question: "You have him groveling at your feet?"Jen: Repentance would include a hug, probably.
Jen: I have no desire to bring down Doug Phillips and Vision Forum. I think Doug has a lot to offer the Christian homeschooling community and I wish him nothing but the best in his ministry – after he repents. I pray that God would bless Doug Phillips and all that he does – after he repents.

So, you see, she states that she’s calling for reconcilation on one comment, then another comment she states she’s calling Doug to repentence, then her blog is up for the "exposure" of Doug and "warning" others.

---

"Jen,You'd like to get others to believe that you have been "all about the reconciliation with Doug Phillips" until recently, with your disruption at the Arlington conference. That's a lie."

One thing that came to mind the other day about this story:

"It must be a difficult thing to have to constantly be at war with someone, for years, always being in a position of having "aught" against someone who, incidentally, is probably living quite well, frankly. He has probably moved on, enjoyed his family, enjoyed fellowship and perhaps he’s even learned some very valuable, spiritually growing lessons. He may come to be much more careful with dealing with angry, embittered individuals. He may even have built up some internal checkpoints to know when to nip something early in the bud, before it becomes a very ugly mess. I’m sure he and his family have learned and grown from these experiences."

Read the rest here.

This is really sad.

2007-05-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

For an update on what might be actually going on click ...

Please take a look at my comments at my blog after you've read what's been reported at stillfedup blog to be going on at the Epstein home. It's only fair to know after all of the public outrage she has called for the people she's against (Doug Phillips) for months and months with fine details about his life talked about.

This latest situation in a real family should prompt real prayers of help by the Holy Spirit from the saints. Nobody at our home is taking delight in this. This post is only to show that perhaps there is more going on with that situation than is being said.
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Here is the latest, Jen or her Moderator for the Day, is "holding my comments in moderation mode" [I am commenting to Spunky, too, because she posted a good comment in my comment section in both my **blogs* - (it was only this blog), and in a private email; thanks, Spunky]:

Spunky, everyone,
Jen's comment section still won't allow my comment I posted in the 2pm hour (my time)today
Kate Says: Your comment is awaiting moderation. May 19th, 2007 at 3:58 pm

Why are you not letting my comment through? I’ve let Jen’s go through on my blog today, why the hesitation? Is it because you are looking for a good answer? I asked “Get a Clue” the question too.Your treatment of legimate questions is troubling to many people, and the list of people is getting longer.
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here's another at 7:55pm saturday may 19th my time:

Kate Says: Your comment is awaiting moderation. May 19th, 2007 at 8:55 pm

I am really disappointed that you still haven’t allowed my comments though. Hours have gone by and many other comments have come through but not mine on the question to “Get a Clue”.Spunky sent me an email and even commented on my blogs, and I had to tell her that you wouldn’t let my comments through. Are you sure you want the public to know about this?This is very wrong, since I have allowed Jen’s comments on my blog.
8:00 PM
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Here is my censored comment that hasn't yet posted to her blog in the 2pm hour today:

"To Get a Clue:
Where in the BCA statement does it state or use as justification that her pre-conversion sins that she had repented of as the basis of the excommunication? It says for habitual lying and other things, but it does not use her pre-conversion sins as the justification. If he read her preconversion sins in front of the congregation (do we factually know this to be the case?) and the congregation wasn't already aware of the volatile situation in their home, what was the context? Was he showing a list of behaviors that they had been dealing with and that was part of the hurtful "parable of the bed" situation where Jen wasn't sensitive to Mark's request to get rid of the bed? Was it shown in an effort to be fair and show a pattern of behavior, or because somehow all those people at BCA enjoyed spreading such a sorry story around, especially Doug himself? It doesn't make sense. Most people would have been disgusted to have him read a person's preconversion sin in public and use it to excommunicate a family. That would have produced some sort of congregational reaction to Doug if that were the case.
The excommunication process was done with the consent of the congregation. Not mindless drones, or cowering, fearful christians. They had dealt with the Epsteins for a while, according to BCA statement.
btw, it *is* hypocritical to point out such sin on Ryan's part and not acknowledge her own beam in her eye. This is splitting hairs. Mark has claimed Christ, Ryan never was going around picking fights with teetoetallers and calling himself a Christian, and yet Jen lumped him in with guilt-by-association with R. C. Sproul. It's illogical for you to not recognize the correlation, regardless of whether she is part of some money-receiving ministry. She has placed herself as a judge against Doug and Ligonier and yet you say she shouldn't be equally scrutinized in her family's life? Doesn't Jesus say something about by whatever judgement you measure out, you will also be judged?"

PROOF

2007-05-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

*Drawn and Loved by Him said ... , *Grace abounding said ... , ** and my open rebuke is ...
Go there to read my 3 posts on how Jen lied to me, comments, and especially the Open Rebuke.
Read another Texas Homeschooler's rebuke of the Epsteins here.

*I address by specific points Jen's specific lies that she has told me in this post, and address her questions.

"You want proof of your sin, Jen? You want proof, defenders of Jen? I have shown you her lies. You now have the responsibility to take it before the Lord, because being willingly ignorant will not stand before Him."

Open Rebuke to Jen for Lying to Christ's Bride:
I’ve seen that video you posted on YouTube.

(”Doug Phillips Has Jen Epstein Ejected From Public Sidewalk”)

Me:”Do you, Jen Epstein … or members of your family, have or had in your possession, or ever owned or borrowed or ever held, have you .. in the act of being photographed, a pair of binoculars?”Jen: “Thanks for asking! No.”http://jensgems.wordpress.com/2007/03/21/does-doug-phillips-have-a-mother/#comment-612

Jen: “I have never called you on the phone,”http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:iJvnlkMCACEJ:jensgems.blogspot.com/+Jen’s+gems,+%22I+have+never+called+you+on+the+phone%22,+%22kate%22&hl=en&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=us

JEN admitted to me finally that she does indeed own binoculars.

she said here:

"Do you want to know my whole life story as it regards binoculars? I have owned binoculars for several years." -- Jen Epstein's own words.

Read it here, her own contradicting words to me. This is what I would point out as a specific LIE to me. Yes, it makes me upset, because she said "No" when I asked her before and now she tells me "Yes". Which is it?? The binoculars are hanging around her neck in the video. Now she isn't even letting me defend myself against all her "supporters" on her blog when she has so often told me, if I want to ask her questions, to come to her blog. Then she said I needed to email her. She/her moderator is manipulating the whole conversation over there. There is no fair discussion when I can't bring up these salient points. They are even her own words from her own blogs! That's most likely why she's not letting them though. >>>>>

http://jensgems.wordpress.com/2007/05/14/doug-phillips-constitutional-attorney-tramples-first-amendment/#comment-3622

I am not being treated fairly with my questions. How can I believe her when she has done these kinds of things to people who just question her?

Me: I have heard this voice (Jen’s) in the phone call I blogged about on my blog. I do not know why she would continue to deny it even after I have in GOOD FAITH trusted her to tell me the truth. I feel I have been lied to and manipulated in this situation, even when I have asked very pointed questions. Go ahead, attack my message which is one that is this: EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THIS MESS: QUIT LYING TO THE CHURCH and Bride of Christ.

Remember what happened to Ananias and Sapphira. They were not lying to men, they were lying to the Holy Spirit/God. Do not tell me what I heard on the phone that day, etched in my memory. Do not attack me for my convictions. Do not trample on my good-faith effort to reach out in compassion and in search of TRUTH. I don’t care what has happened to bring you all (everyone on either or both sides) to this point. Do not abuse the Body of Christ any more. We have prayed and hoped for the resolution to this and it will only come when the truth is revealed. It’s shameful to manipulate Christ’s Bride like this. The binoculars in the video, Jen, are a taunt and a slap in the face to those of us who have asked you about this very subject. You do not display concern for Christ and His Bride in this video. This video reminds me of that awful group that shows up at soldier’s funerals to protest.

This doesn’t convince me of your truthfulness when I’ve asked you before about binoculars (caught on SNAGIt!) and when I’ve asked you point blank about the phone call. I caught H**L for that with all those people that dared to question my reasoning on that. You and I both know you did call me, now that I’ve heard your voice on your youtube sidewalk video at the conference. THIS (your voice) is what upsets me (don’t go there), I will not from this day forward defend any more of your exposure of DP, even if he is just as guilty. He doesn’t correspond with me, but you have, and have continued to refute my very questions about a) the phone call and b) the binoculars. I have prayed for you with all my heart, and poured out tears of reconciliation. Does it even matter to you? I’ve been attacked on my own blog and worldmagblog, and another’s blog for believing you called me. Did it even matter to you? You are that woman in the phone call (that had specifically to do with me changing my blog posts about the Ligonier/Epstein/Ministry Watchman and patriarchy topics).

Did you just buy those binoculars for this event? Why do these little details mean that much to me? Because you have tried to show patterns of “problems” with DP, but here I am pointing out some very glaring problems I have with what you’ve told me in the past.

I wanted so much to have “internet” christian woman friends, and you and a few others were in a battle against me for a short time there, but I laid down my warfare and ran to the cross. And now I risk all my friendship, not only with you, but with all those women who have stood by your side. I really value some of the insights each one brings in various discussions, but now, I realize they may all turn against me because I bring these painful, difficult things up openly, like you have done on your blog. I am persuaded, though, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us(me) from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Rom 8:38-39
– Kathleen
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Happily Ever After

2007-05-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

One of our family's favorite movies is Ever After. We all appreciate the determination of young Danielle (cinderella character) and some scenes, such as when her step-sister steals the gown and slippers Danielle's mother left her, are good stuff. We have the soundtrack; you can sample some of the songs here:

Ever After (Main title)

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It's good music to use in ballet recitals. Clicking on these links will bring up a Windows media player.

Are We There Yet?

2007-05-11T21:20:00.000-07:00

Are You a Good Person?

2007-05-10T14:54:00.000-07:00

I'm just so glad that Jesus came to seek and to save sinners like me and Russell and my children. My past life is certainly not one I could boast about, so what God has directed me to do is boast in Christ alone and His salvation. I will lift up the cross, point to the empty tomb, fix my eyes on my King, and be excited about how He heals the brokenhearted and came to seek me with His love.

"They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. .... I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." Matthew 9:12-13
"For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." Luke 19:10

The Sovereignty of God

2007-05-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

"For in him we live, and move, and have our being"

___________

This passage of scripture came to mind this morning. It brought to mind the truth that God is in control of all things, including our faith to believe. His grace is sufficient for me, for His "strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Cor. 12:9) I love and serve an awesome God.

___________

Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, [Ye] men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

Act 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by [that] man whom he hath ordained; [whereof] he hath given assurance unto all [men], in that he hath raised him from the dead. (Acts 17:22-31)

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Literature, Life, Pride and Prejudice Lessons

2007-05-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Elizabeth, has been participating in a small English Literature class and has been learning some wonderful classics. Some of the stories read were Beowulf, Canterbury Tales, Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing", Milton's "Paradise Lost", and one of my favorites, Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress". She is now reading in the Enlightenment period, or the Age of Reason or Neo-Classical period, and is studying Romanticism. She chose to do a character study on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice on the character Lydia Bennet. She received an A+ on her assignment and I thought she had some very interesting insight into this particular character.

As a forethought, I am starting to recognize in modern literature, and especially modern films and television dramas (LOST) examples of the "anti-hero" or the "Noble Savage" which is an element of Romanticism in these plots. The other elements of Romanticism are "Innocence Replaces Wisdom", which will be discussed in another post, but I want to feature the first aspect today, since I have started noticing this "anti-hero" element as being key to most modern literature and film. Post-modernism is slowly replacing Romanticism, but most people are still drawn to the classic form of story telling. Just look at how successful Indiana Jones was for Spielberg, or Disney's Jack Sparrow of the Pirates of the Caribbean. Even Capt. James T. Kirk has been a beloved rule-breaking galactic hero to many.

I am featuring a part of her assignment here to point out some insights my daughter had into Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice character Lydia, with primarily the concept of The Noble Savage, or anti-hero:
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Pride and Prejudice is a romantic novel. Romanticism is “artistic and intellectual movement [which originated] in Europe in the late 18th century. . . [. It spread] after the English romantic revolution of 1798. . .” (Glossary, p. 18).

Since Romanticism had sprung up in all of England’s literature, we will see if Jane Austen’s character, Lydia Bennet, the youngest and most immature of the Bennet sisters, had any of the concepts we find in the romantic literature of Pride and Prejudice’s time. We will then finish the individual concepts with the true biblical principles.

The Noble Savage: the antihero breaks all the rules. Lydia was described as being “self-willed and careless [, and] would scarcely give [her wiser older sisters] a hearing. [She was] ignorant, idle, and vain,” (chapter 37) along as imprudent, “unguarded [,] and often uncivil” (chapter 23). That being said, it is already clear that her personality would be one to break rules.

Lydia was frequently traveling to Meryton with her older sister, Catherine, to peruse the stores and buy the latest fashions that would be sold there. Much to the disapproval and disgust of her older sisters Elizabeth, Jane, and Mary, their main objective into always going to Meryton was that if ever there was an officer of the regiment in Meryton, “they would flirt with him; and while Meryton was within a walk of Longbourn, they [were] going there forever” (chapter 37).

Lydia’s biggest and most shocking “rule breakage” was when she eloped with the regiment officer Mr. Wickham while away from her family and staying with her friend Mrs. Forster in Brighton with the regiment.

Elizabeth was entirely opposed to Lydia’s staying alone with the regiment, and stated to her father that, “If [he was] aware of the very great disadvantage to [all of the sisters] which [had arisen] from the public notice of Lydia’s unguarded and imprudent manner. . . [she was] sure [he] would judge differently in the affair” (chapter 41).

Despite her significant point, her father did not share her view – least of all her mother who encouraged immature and immodest behavior. That however did not prepare them for the shock and mortification of Lydia’s elopement with Mr. Wickham.

The Biblical principle on “The Noble Savage”:

“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king” (1 Samuel 15:23 ~ KJV).

“He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction. He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief” (Proverbs 17:19-20 ~ KJV).
(end of this portion of my daughter's article)
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Another aspect of Romanticism would be "Innocence replaces wisdom", as her paper describes here:
_________________

Innocence replaces wisdom. Was Lydia so “innocent” that the wise seemed foolish?
In romanticism, children are “seen as hapless victims of poverty and exploitation” (Syllabus, Shifting Worldviews, p. 5). As much as we can see that Lydia’s actions were not innocent, some of the characters of Pride and Prejudice thought them only as adolescent fun and games.

Lydia was always encouraged by her mother to continue in immature and reckless behavior, despite Elizabeth’s protesting that Lydia’s irrational actions would ruin the Bennet name and any chance of the older sisters getting decent marriages.
(end of this portion of my daughter's article)
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I'm very pleased with my daughter's attention to her schooling and her critical thinking skills. I'm pleased that her world view is being grounded in scriptural truths.

Permit me to edify my children here: Creative Abilities

Pirates of the Caribbean reenactment

2007-05-02T11:56:00.001-07:00

My children have been blessed with such creativity and humor. They make me laugh all the time. This was a great birthday present. The bloopers at the end are hilarious. One of my friends from my congregation saw this and asked who the other "boy" was (referring to the Jack Sparrow character). I laughed as I told her it was my dear daughter. Thank you for this film, you two.

Okay, I'll say something.

2007-05-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

I've been online all day. My daughter is recouperating from a dental procedure and my teens and I just stayed home instead of our regularly scheduled activities. So, I've been all over the internet, reading blogs and websites. Someone posted something quite shocking in light of recent conflict. I am stunned and I immediately went to see what everyone else was saying about the recent allegation. Surely there would be discussion and facts could be verified or disputed, surely. Nothing. Crickets. Is it just me who wants to know these things? What is going on? Who I am to believe? (The Lord, of course, and His Word.) What immediately came to mind, but not necessarily pointing to anybody in particular at all (I look to myself first), except, perhaps to all of us in total, was this:

Jhn 8:7-12 "So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.

And they which heard [it], being convicted by [their own] conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, [even] unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."

*****

Lord, help me to pray and seek Your face in all things. Make me to be quick to love and eager to share the Hope that You've put in me. Guide me in Your Truth in my inmost parts and wash me by Your Word. Sanctify me in Your Truth, fill me with your Grace, increase my faith, turn my ear towards Your Voice and let me see Your Beautiful, Magnificent Glory. Let Your Name be praised in all the earth. Amen.

Frailty, Sickness, and Pressing in to Christ

2007-05-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

The sickness I've had for at least 1 1/2 months now has begun to really take it's toll on me. Physically, I'm worn out. Spiritually, I'm beat up, but in all of this I have really had to press in to the love and eternal bond with Christ Jesus my King and God the Father, comforted by His Spirit, encouraged by His Word.

“Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Cor. 12:10)

During this time I've been reading some accounts of those who have disputed the teachings of false teachers (Bill Gothard, IBLP) and how even health matters are even prescribed by Gothard and his teachers. Marriage problems can seemingly be fixed by following his advice or steps to marital fulfillment. To be fair, Gothard answers some who criticise his questionable teachings with a weak response. When those around me can't seem to see the fallacy in his or other's humanistic, false-gospel, works-based philosophy on scriptural matters, then I have become discouraged and wondered, "Who can I turn to that just wants to follow God's word, untainted by falseness, and humbly seek His Face?"

I "feel" alone at times, yet my true, cherished comfort is His Holy Presence and His Word. Just the Bible and me, guided by His Holy Spirit. Following a man has become so, so distasteful to me lately that I want to run to my Savior, shut away from the world and its distractions. There are very few men/women that I want to listen to these days, because many seem to have a book to sell, a prescription for living, posturing - among professing Christ-followers - that I want to run to the Mountain of my King and hide.

Possibly the only minister of God's Grace I am encouraged to listen to is Spurgeon. He has such a way in his Morning and Evening devotional that I am so, so drawn to the Majesty and Love of my Savior. His sermons are equally powerful in pointing to the justice and perfect work of God throughout the Bible. However, even Spurgeon probably had reservations about people regarding him as anything, so therefore, I just thank God for using dirty clay pots to present His message of His great Grace that has appeared unto all mankind. This is what encourages me.

*****

**Wonderful, loving Father, thank you for your cross and your everlasting power over sin and death. Thank You for raising me up with Christ at His resurrection and seating me with Him in the heavenlies. Thank You for conquering the fear of judgement by You, by nailing your Son, Jesus, on the cross for my sins. Thank You for healing me of all my infirmities, sickness, and heartache, though I await the manifestion of Your glory. Thank You that You give me glimpses of Your glory through Your Word, by Your Spirit, and gave me hope and peace through Christ. Thank You that You are Faithful and True, and that there is no falseness in You at all. Thank you for showing me that You reign right now, right here, on the earth and in Heaven now and forevermore, for Your Kingdom is an Everlasting Kingdom and Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father. Thank You for putting the Kingdom of God within me, allowing me to go everywhere with You, and someday experience a new Heaven and new earth with You. You are Holy and worthy of my praise forever. Amen, and Amen.**

****

(I don't want to get into too much negative talk of Gothard teaching, because I'd rather point to Christ, my Savior. I'll be referencing some informational Gothard links in my sidebar in the future, with occasional commentary.)

Bill Gothard Preaches Another Gospel

2007-04-29T21:34:00.000-07:00

For those who aren't familiar with Bill Gothard's teaching, I will be submitting today and in the future, various links, references to books and personal testimonies of Gothard's "IBLP" teaching that has so permeated much of the Christian world. Let me state my position up front: I don't believe he teaches just basic principles for living, like Martha Stewart teaches how to keep your pantry organized. I have evaluated his own words and the people who hold to his teachings as being "another gospel" and not part of the teachings of the grace of Jesus Christ. I value the finished work of Jesus on the cross and His powerful resurrection from the dead so much that it grieves me so many of my "christian" brothers and sisters are trying to establish their own righteous patterns of living, in order to be shining lights. Friends, don't be deceived. Our flesh is at war with the work of Christ, and Him crucified and raised from the dead for our victory.

Here is an interesting read about Gothard's unique views on scripture:

"1 Gothard's organization is an educational road show that teaches his unique view of Scripture. His seminars offer self-help, presumably from the Bible, in the form of lists and steps to solving life's problems. He has a subjective and personal interpretive scheme, and finds in God's Word what no one else has. (Source: "A Study in Evolving Fadism: The Dangerous Leanings of Bill Gothard's Teachings," The Quarterly Journal of Personal Freedom Outreach, April-June 1996.)Gothard promises seminar attendees: "Using this Seminar as a foundation, we can now offer you an unprecedented series of further educational, informational, and character development opportunities that will be the best guarantee that your sons and daughters will avoid the destructive pressures of our day ..." (Emphasis added.) [Notice there is no mention of faith in Jesus Christ as a guarantee of anything!] Gothard continues, "you want to break destructive habits; conquer anger, guilt, and bitterness; restore vital relationships with family and others; experience true freedom and happiness; understand why things happen to you; and discover God's purpose for your life ... THIS SEMINAR IS FOR YOU. This Seminar presents seven non-optional, universal principles which every person must follow regardless of culture, race, religion, education, or social status. These principles teach people how to have successful lives, marriages, families, and businesses." (Italics added.) (Source: IBLP Internet web site, 8/97.) It is almost as if Gothard is saying. "With all the promises and guarantees we offer, who needs Jesus Christ!"

Gothard advertises Basic Youth Conflicts Seminar ("The Basic Seminar" -- $75 for an individual; $125 for a married couple) topics as follows: "(1) How can I break habits which I know are wrong?; (2) What are the eight keys to true success and happiness?; (3) How can I resolve major conflicts with parents and others?; (4) How can I have a happy and successful marriage?; (5) What are the three root causes to which all major problems in life can be traced?; (6) How can I overcome guilt from past failures?; (7) How can I have freedom from financial pressures?; (8) How can I resolve anger and bitterness toward others?; (9) How can I conquer boredom and discover purpose in life?; (10) How can I conquer fear and overcome feeling inferior?; (11) How can I establish true friendships? ... PROVEN RESULTS" (Source: IBLP Internet web site, 8/97.) Notice the focus on self and what "I" can get out of this -- where's the focus on Christ and Him crucified?

Amplifying further, Gothard says, "The Basic Seminar addresses seven Biblical principles that apply to every person, regardless of culture, race, religion, age, education, or social status. A sampling of the topics include insights on how to break unhealthy habits; resolve anger, guilt, bitterness, and fear; and discover real purpose for life. ... Designed for alumni of the Basic Seminar, the Advanced Seminar discusses more specific application of how Biblical principles apply to marriage, family, education, financial responsibility, and additional topics. ... In the Financial Freedom Seminar, IBLP board member and real estate developer Jim Sammons shares Biblical perspectives related to debt, business relationships, and stewardship he learned after experiencing an overwhelming financial collapse. Mr. Sammons intersperses Biblical counsel with personal anecdotes and lessons drawn from his own financial woes and successes. ... Each Children's Institute is held in concurrence with a Basic Seminar and uses nature stories, object lessons, and a 'team' approach to encourage children aged 6-12 to understand the importance of Godly character. Its purposes is to turn the hearts of children toward their parents (see Malachi 4:6) and to assist parents in building strong families. [Held in concurrence with the Basic Seminar, it offers 21 hours of instruction and has taught 88,000 children since its inception in 1992.]" (Source: IBLP Internet web site, 10/00.)"
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Please take a look at this site for more understanding on the fallacies of IBLP's teachings:

Midwest Christian Outreach article on Bill Gothard and IBLP

And please remember what the apostle Paul had to rebuke Peter for here:

Gal 2:11-21
But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before [them] all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? We [who are] Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, [is] therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

Gal 2:20-21
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness [come] by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

This Homeschool Mom's Prayer

2007-04-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

Father God, I don't ask that you make my children great in word or deed or anything. I ask that you fill them with Your Greatness, that they would love and glorify You forever. In the Name of Jesus Christ, my Savior, Amen.

And He Shall Be Called ...

2007-04-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

Christian MySpace Graphics

Let The Games Begin! (again)

2007-04-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

This seemed like a fun post to pull up.

Family Games

Here in Oregon it rains alot. In fact we have had record rainfall for the past week. This means that families stay indoors for most of the time. Good news! We have games! Of course, daily responsibilities must come first, such as Bible study, chores and schoolwork. So here are some guidelines when participating in Family Game Time:

Do play games that stimulate the brain, like Cranium or Pictionary
Don't play on an empty stomach
Do laugh loudly when something bad happens to your game character, such as Jumpin' Jim Rivers in ExciteBike (Nintendo 64)
Don't play Mario Kart until the dishes in the sink are done
Do play Mario Kart if you're trying to avoid doing dishes
Don't take your high score too seriously
Do laugh uncontrollably when your 14 -year-old son jumps 4 feet into the air like a rabbit during Charades
Don't make fun of your Husband's/Dad's drawings during a round of Pictionary
Do save your Husband's/Dad's drawings
Don't take the circle game too seriously ..... O

Do play Monopoly, but only if you have a week or two to complete the game
Don't use the word curmudgeon for a word while playing Scrabble
Do play Uno as a family while under a tarp in the pouring rain while camping ... it's fun!

The article Some Still Unplug With Box Games gives some insight into the world of family fun.

Let the Games Begin!

Hail, Gladdening Light

2007-04-06T06:34:00.000-07:00

Phos Hilaron (Φῶς Ἱλαρόν) *Koine Greek

Φώς 'ιλαρόν αγίας δόξης αθανάτου Πατρός, ουρανίου, αγίου, μάκαρος, Ιησού Χριστέ, ελθόντες επί τήν ηλίου δύσιν, ιδόντες φώς εσπερινόν, υμνούμεν Πατέρα, Υιόν, καί άγιον Πνεύμα, Θεόν, Αξιόν σε εν πάσι καιροίς υμνείσθαι φωναίς αισίαις, Υιέ Θεού, ζωήν ο διδούς, διό ο κόσμος σέ δοξάζει.

Hail, gladdening Light, of His pure glory poured

Who is the immortal Father, heavenly, blest,

Holiest of Holies--Jesus Christ our Lord!

Now we are come to the sun's hour of rest;

The lights of evening round us shine;

We hymn the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit divine!

Worthiest art thou at all times to be sung

With undefiled tongue,

Son of our God, giver of life, alone:

Therefore in all the world thy glories, Lord, thy own. Amen.

My family has the cd, Passion: Hymns Ancient and Modern, and every time I listen to this cd version of this hymn, my breath is taken away and I immediately picture the throne room of Heaven, and my Lord God and King being worshipped by all of His people. It is an awesome experience.

You can read about this song here, and its history here.

Have a wonderful Good Friday!

The Value of Women in the Bible According to Jesus, Matthew Henry and Spurgeon

2007-04-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

Gaston: LaFou I'm afraid I've been thinking ..
LaFou: ..a dangerous past time,
Gaston: I know.

(The above from the song, “Gaston”, in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast)

Gaston: "It's not right for a woman to read. Soon she starts getting *ideas*, and *thinking*..."

Some Biblical Perspectives on Women

What Did Jesus Do?

Jhn 4:5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.
Jhn 4:6-8 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with [his] journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour. There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
Jhn 4:9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
Jhn 4:10-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
Jhn 4:15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw. Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither. The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly. The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.
Jhn 4:23-25 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in spirit and in truth. The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.

(Behold His love for her especially, and of the Samaritans):

Jhn 4:26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
Jhn 4:31-35 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat.
But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.
Jhn 4:39-41 ¶ And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did. So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days. And many more believed because of his own word;

Presbyterian minister Matthew Henry (1662-1714) commentary:

When Philip the evangelist preached to the Samaritans (Jews in nationality but shunned by Israel - remember the woman at the well with Jesus)

Act 1:8 "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
Act 8:1 "And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles."
Act 8:5 "Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them."

M. Henry's commentary:
// When they believed, without scruple (though they were Samaritans) and without delay they were baptized, openly professed the Christian faith, promised to adhere to it, and then, by washing them with water, were solemnly admitted into the communion of the Christian church, and owned as brethren by the disciples. Men only were capable of being admitted into the Jewish church by circumcision; but, to show that in Jesus Christ there is neither male nor female (Gal. 3:28), but both are alike welcome to him, the initiating ordinance is such as women are capable of, for they are numbered with God’s spiritual Israel, though not with Israel according to the flesh, Num. 1:2. And hence it is easily gathered that women are to be admitted to the Lord’s supper, though it does not appear that there were any among those to whom it was first administered. [4.] This occasioned great joy; each one rejoiced for himself, as he in the parable who found the treasure hid in the field; and they all rejoiced for the benefit hereby brought to their city, and that it came without opposition, which it would scarcely have done if Samaria had been within the jurisdiction of the chief priests. The gospel of Christ does not make men melancholy, but fills them with joy, if it be received as it should be; for it is glad tidings of great joy to all people, Lu. 2:10.
//(5.) The satisfaction they had in attending on, and attending to, Philip’s preaching, and the success it had with many of them (v. 8): There was great joy in that city; for (v. 12) they believed Philip, and were baptized into the faith of Christ, the generality of them, both men and women. //
// that city of Samaria where Christ was, Jn. 4:5. Many of that city then believed in Christ, though he did no miracle among them (v. 39, 41), and now Philip, three years after, carries on the work then begun. The Jews would have no dealings with the Samaritans; but Christ sent his gospel to slay all enmities, and particularly that between the Jews and the Samaritans, by making them one in his church. //
// (2.) The doctrine he preached was Christ; for he determined to know nothing else. He preached Christ to them; he proclaimed Christ to them (so the word signifies), as a king ... //
// Now Philip tells them that he is come, and that the Samaritans are welcome to him. Ministers’ business is to preach Christ—Christ, and him crucified—Christ, and him glorified. //
// The miracles were undeniable; they heard and saw the miracles which he did. They heard the commanding words he spoke, and saw the amazing effects of them immediately; that he spoke, and it was done. And the nature of the miracles was such as suited the intention of his commission, and gave light and lustre to it. //

My thoughts: The women received this preaching of "Christ" with joy, along with the men. There was no distinction for the message of the message of the Gospel. They equally heard that "Hope had come" to them.

What is Jesus' Heart for the Woman from Canaan in this passage?

C.H. Spurgeon wrote:

// 22. Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

"Have mercy on me." The mother identifies herself with her child. When we pray for our children, that is the right way to pray. Intercessory prayer never prevails until we bear the object of our prayer upon our heart, and ask for the blessing we desire for them as a favor to ourselves.

23. But he answered her not a word.

Answers to prayers may be delayed; but delays are not always denials. Christ's silence must have been a great trial to the poor woman; but our Lord knew with whom he was dealing.

23. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.

Ah, these disciples made a grand mistake! She did not cry after them; she cried after him; but so they understood it: therefore they said, "Get rid of her; she disturbs us; when we are in the street, we can hear her cry. Send her away; for she crieth after us." Ah! Poor disciples, she was not so foolish as to cry after you; she was crying after your Master. If any here have come only to hear the preacher, they have made a great mistake; but if you have come for a word from the Master, I pray that you may be gratified. //

*My Note: Jesus made the trip FOR HER:

// 28, 29. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour. And Jesus departed from thence.

When he had done his business, he was off. Our Lord was a great itinerant; he was always on the move/ He had come all the way to the parts of Tyre and Sidon to help one woman; and when that one woman had been attended to, he goes back again immediately to his old post by the sea of Galilee. //

My thoughts on this passage: Here Jesus hears the cries of the woman, but does not chastise her in anger or rebuke her. His DISCIPLES, on the other hand, treat her less kindly, and even are dismissive. Jesus uses this moment as a teachable moment about her faith, humility in her request, and eagerness to receive of the LORD. She is not even crying out for the help of the disciples. She is not star-struck by them; she knows Jesus has the Authority she seeks.

The Angels at the Tomb and the Different Responses to the Good News:

Mat 28:1-8 ¶ In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first [day] of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead [men]. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

Mat 28:9-10 ¶ And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

My thoughts: Here the guards (men) responded by fainting with fear, but the WOMEN (the 2 Mary's) responded with fear, JOY, and obedience to spread the word of the good news of Jesus' resurrection to the DISCIPLES (men).

Were Women Counted with the Early Church Body of Believers?

Act 1:13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, ...
Act 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
Act 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.
Act 8:6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.
Act 8:8 And there was great joy in that city.
Act 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 5:2:

Gen 5:2 Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.

(my note: As far is in the union of marriage):

M. Henry's commentary here:
// 4. That God created them male and female (v. 2), for their mutual comfort as well as for the preservation and increase of their kind. Adam and Eve were both made immediately by the hand of God, both made in God’s likeness; and therefore between the sexes there is not that great distance and inequality which some imagine.//
(Here is a key statement:) //6. That he called their name Adam. Adam signifies earth, red earth. Now, (1.) God gave him this name. Adam had himself named the rest of the creatures, but he must not choose his own name, lest he should assume some glorious pompous title. But God gave him a name which would be a continual memorandum to him of the meanness of his original, and oblige him to look unto the rock whence he was hewn and the hole of the pit whence he was digged, Isa. 51:1. Those have little reason to be proud who are so near akin to dust. (2.) He gave this name both to the man and to the woman. Being at first one by nature, and afterwards one by marriage, it was fit they should both have the same name, in token of their union. The woman is of the earth earthy as well as the man. //

My Note: because of the Fall in the Garden of Eden, they receive a cursed nature:

Gen. 3:16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire [shall be] to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.

My thoughts: That old nature is death, cursed. Woman was changed forever in her capacity for emotional balance, as well as a very real change in our capacity in conception (I will not study, at this time, the details of this particular part of the passage.) Women will battle the urge to usurp, but men will battle the weakness to abdicate. The result seems to be one of a striving relationship even within the union of marriage. Without the Rule of the Holy Spirit in one's life and in marriage, that striving is always there. We can submit that old, cursed nature to the cross, though.

The Good News about human distinctions:

Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Gal 3:29 And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

How Did Paul address these Women in the Church?

Romans 16

// "1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:
2 That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also." //

My thoughts: It seems that Paul was exhorting the church to assist HER in whatever need, for she has also been faithful in her serving of others, as well as Paul. He at first commends her.

In Conclusion, (well, for now anyway):

I need to be careful in placing distinctions on the roles of men and women in the Body of Christ that the Bible's teaching has not imposed. It seems that it can be easy to place one's hope in the merits of even our obedience to what we think is God's will for everyone, according to our gifting that He has placed on us. I must not elevate some perceived status of position in life (whether because I am a wife and mother of many children or few). Men were given a certain role to fulfill, with heavy responsibilities, but that position in life is one granted by God, and should never be used as a weapon against the very Bride Christ came to seek and save and be wedded to. Certain restrictions were placed on women (becoming an Elder in the Church or usurping a husband's authority, for example), according to the Bible, yes, but as I study it more intently I need to sift out what is taught today in churches that which is merely the teaching of men, and hold very dearly that which pertains to life and godliness, His Living Word.

2007-04-02T18:13:00.000-07:00

Above All That We Ask or Think

God is good, isn't He? He showed us in His Word just how much He loves us, by sending His Son, Jesus, to the earth to pay for our sins. He, in absolute miraculous glory, gave us Hope and victory over sin by resurrecting, or raising from the grave to reign forevermore. He then went above all that we can ask or imagine or think and ascended to His throne and sent us a Comforter, His Spirit to always live in us and guide us into all Truth. His Spirit gives us Life, Liberty, Hope, Peace and Joy and He assures us of this truth. Do you desire this Saviour? Do you desire that your sins be forgiven you? Turn to Jesus who said on the cross, "It is finished" and took your punishment so that you may have eternal, or everlasting Life with Him, and to know the Love that surpasses all knowledge.

2007-04-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

I Was Wrong

After some private emails with Jen, I have come to realize that I'm wrong about a lot of things that I have believed. She reminded me of 1 Cor. 13:7 - "Love believes all things" until proven otherwise. My fleshly desire to be right, or an internet supersleuth ;) is SO wrong, especially in light of that verse. I will say that she has been gracious in her private emails to me, much more than I have been publicly towards her, based on my own sinful, fleshly responses to the controversies. I have apologized privately and I do right now to Jen for all the accusatory words of the past. I'm truly sorry for the grief and I love you. God is not glorified in the constant warring on my part, and that is why I have chosen to reconcile and truly press forward in believing her personally, that she is being truthful with me. My love for the truth and for God's people has to outweigh any personal grievance - that has been thrown into the sea of forgetfulness, it's been lain at the foot of the cross. God has been putting in me a real love for others that has been totally His work. The great and marvellous thing about God is that His Truth prevails and His Love prevails. I want to walk in that today and forever.

Added April 2nd:
I also would like to apologize and ask forgiveness of Lynn at "Indelible Grace" blog, Elizabeth, Corrie, Justice Prima, CJ and any other people (forgive me if I have forgotten any) who have commented on Lynn's, Jen's or any other blog, where I have caused grief with my accusations and words. (Added April 3rd: I was encouraged recently to also ask "PFR" for forgiveness for being so harsh as well, as Luke 6:31-32 came to mind, though I hope that "PFR" and I could very well be friends someday :) I sincerely apologize for speaking so harshly to you.) (Natasha, I sincerely apologize for causing you any more grief. You've been through plenty and my words were not full of grace and love. Please forgive me.) I was wrong, and was not exhibiting the love that God has shown me through His grace and mercy by His Spirit. He has been stirring up in me a love for His Body, the Elect of God, those for whom He died, and even to have compassion on others who have not come to the knowledge of His love for them, even yet. My past words have brought me grief for the way I have represented the One Who bore the reproach of my sin on the cross. This He did willingly, joyfully, expectantly for my salvation and completeness in His good work. He not only did it for me and then rested from His work on the cross, no - He then, by the Father's will and good pleasure arose in ultimate glory and victory over sin and death and now reigns in the heavenlies as well as my heart. The kingdom of God is within me, and He is my King. I humbly acknowledge my utter dependence on God and His grace, as well as reach out in reconcilliation with any and all to invite them to fellowship with me with this wonderful, loving Savior. Will you accept this invitation? I pray you will.

Sincerely,
In Christ,
Kathleen

"Whenever God looks upon thee in Christ, he sees in thee all that ought to be there. Did he look upon thee apart from Christ, he would see in thee nothing he could commend: but thou art "accepted in the Beloved." Even the omniscient eye of God detects nothing for which to condemn the soul which is covered with the righteousness of Christ. "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth." Without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, is the entire church as seen in the person of Christ Jesus, her representative and head. Christ is all for us before the throne of God." C.H. Spurgeon

Lost

2007-03-30T13:02:00.001-07:00

“Cos all of the stars are fading away
Just try not to worry you’ll see them some day
Take what you need and be on your way
And stop crying your heart out” - Oasis

2007-03-29T06:29:00.000-07:00

Desiring God: A Better Way

"But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." - Matthew 23:10-12

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10

"Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth." Psalm 57:11

While listening to my husband read aloud John Piper's sermon about the voice of God, I was struck with conviction again about His Word, the Bible.

John Piper writes:

"There settled over me a wonderful reverence. A palpable peace came down. This was a holy moment and a holy corner of the world in northern Minnesota. God Almighty had come down and was giving me the stillness and the openness and the willingness to hear his very voice. As I marveled at his power to dry the sea and the river, he spoke again. "I keep watch over the nations—let not the rebellious exalt themselves."

This was breathtaking. It was very serious. It was almost a rebuke. At least a warning. He may as well have taken me by the collar of my shirt, lifted me off the ground with one hand, and said, with an incomparable mixture of fierceness and love, 'Never, never, never exalt yourself. Never rebel against me."

He also preached a sermon about God's sovereignty and how He works all thing together for good, to those who love God:

Our Weapon Against Pride and Insecurity

The weapon that God has put into the hands of his people is the promise of Romans 8:28. "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose" (KJV). The heart-felt confidence that God Almighty causes everything that happens to me to be good for me is the sword that severs the root of self-exaltation and self-justification and self-preservation. As verse 31 says, "If God is for us, who is against us?"

If, by the sheer grace of his sovereign will, God has taken your side, and works all the pain and pleasure together for your good, then no opponent can really succeed against you. So why exalt yourself? Why justify yourself? Why fret about preserving yourself? If the Lord of the universe has sworn to work for you, why are you anxious about what others think? Why are you all caught up in seeking comfort and security? Your Father knows what you need and he works everything for your good. Leave your exaltation and justification and preservation in his sovereign hands and live in freedom for others.

May Jesus Christ be exalted.