Articles - Acts II Ministries

The Problem With Firing Your Boss

2008-08-01T12:26:00.000-04:00

Imagine going in to work tomorrow and firing your boss. How would it feel to stand in the midst of your co-workers and let your boss have a piece of your mind. You could read him or her the riot act, look them straight in the eye and say, “You’re fired!”

Of course, your boss wouldn’t leave. In fact, your boss and co-workers would probably all begin to worry about your sanity. They understand that the only way you can stop your boss from being your boss is by ceasing to work for them. I now must state the obvious: If you stop going to work you can sever your relationship with your boss, but, in doing so, you will also sever your source of income. Your ex-boss will still be a boss, just not your boss. You may no longer speak to them, but they are still speaking to many other people. You may no longer obey their commands, but they are still in charge of the person who is now performing the work for which you used to get paid. You may feel good about defying them, but you will be poorer as a result.

This foolish concept is not unlike another unfortunate trend in our society. Angry children can now take measures to divorce their parents. But, although you can sever your relationship with your biological mother or father, they will always be your biological mother or father. Some things just can’t be undone!

Perhaps, like myself, you have identified yet another similar phenomenon. It seems that many segments of our society have chosen to fire their Boss, the one true God. In an effort to avoid the responsibilities imposed on them by God’s Word (the Bible) many people have declared that God is dead or irrelevant. Like an ant yelling at a giant sequoia, they have defiantly stretched to their full height, shook their fist at God, and said, “You’re fired!”

Again, I must state the obvious. The supreme court can fire God from our schools and the marketplace, but God will still be God. Every institution of “higher education” in the world could agree to teach that there is no Creator, but they will never undo His creation. In an act of rebellion, an individual can say in His heart that there is no God, but that would not dissolve God’s being; that would only prove the ignorance or foolishness of the individual. Psalm 14:1 says “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.”

Throughout history this incredible stunt has been pulled repeatedly. Scientists, philosophers, educators, politicians, etc., have attempted to re-define life without God in the picture. Think about it. Mankind still hasn’t found a cure for the common cold. We don’t even know how our own brain works. We are consistently reminded of our frailty and mortality as we watch thousands die in earthquakes, floods, cyclones, tsunamis, etc. Yet some of us have the audacity to say that this complex world just morphed into what it is through a series of mutations! We’ve fired the Creator, even though we can’t even begin to understand His creation.

In essence, when someone dismisses God or comes up with their own version of God, all they are doing is firing God. Sadly, as a result, that person will forfeit all the benefits God wants to give to them while living on this earth as well as the great privilege of being a part of what God is doing on a larger, everlasting scale. Ultimately, when they die, God will be right where He has always been. They will see Him and recognize their mistake, but they will have missed their opportunity to let Him be their God forever.

As for me, I have committed my life to whatever God, the Boss of the universe, asks me to do or be. This is not noble of me – I am simply facing reality and taking advantage of God’s great love for me. My eternal life is completely dependent on Him, and I am already enjoying the benefits of letting Him call the shots in my life. My eyes are wide open and I am doing exactly what I want to do – I am letting the Boss be my Boss. After all, I can’t really fire Him.

The Heavens Are Shocked

2008-07-25T11:24:00.000-04:00

Over twenty-six hundred years ago a great preacher passionately counseled his countrymen that they were drifting into perilous waters. He predicted their political demise should they refuse to make drastic corrections. His words came to pass with amazing accuracy. It seems that his congregation had committed the most devastating and most common offense known to man -- they traded the real God for fake gods. This is a bad habit of mankind, driven by their desire to be religious without really having to obey the living God.

While pleading with his contemporaries to return to the true God, Jeremiah employed some curious language. He said, “the heavens are shocked.” God was shocked that mankind would trade a relationship with the real God for a relationship with powerless, temporal substitutes. Here’s the crux of Jeremiah’s message:

“Has any nation ever traded its gods for new ones, even though they are not gods at all? Yet my people have exchanged their glorious God for worthless idols! The heavens are shocked at such a thing and shrink back in horror and dismay,” says the Lord. “For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me — the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!” (Jeremiah 2:11-13 NLT)

One gets the feeling that God couldn’t believe His eyes. Both then and now, in spite of God’s consistent demonstration of power and love, mankind inevitably drifts into idolatry. Our American culture is on a strikingly similar course. We used to declare God in our pledges, honor His Word, lead children in prayer at school, and gather faithfully to worship Him in our churches. Today it seems that many prefer other gods, such as: materialism, human idols, sports, food, addictions, sex, nature, intellectualism, science and mysticism. I am afraid the heavens are still shocked!

Jeremiah warned his contemporaries that their moral choices were as foolish as choosing cracked cisterns rather than a real well of water. Are we making the same choice? Do we want true worship, intact families, real peace…? If so, we need to shift back to the real God who provides spiritual water for our souls.

Jesus picked up the theme of living water while witnessing to a woman of questionable character as he sat by a well. He explained to her that He could offer her living water. He further promised that, “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.” (John 4:13,14 KJV)

Shortly thereafter he made a speech at a major religious event explaining what he meant by living water: “He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)” (John 7: 37-39 KJV)

The good news is: God is still real and waiting, like a gentleman, for people to choose Him. He still offers living water. Millions of people throughout the world have received this living water (the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit) just as the disciples did in Acts chapter two. More and more people are choosing to let go of rituals, traditions and other pursuits in order to chase after the real God. You should too!

Let Freedom Ring

2008-06-27T18:39:00.001-04:00

Independence Day is a great American celebration. Cookouts, fairs, concerts and fireworks help us express our great appreciation for the freedom we enjoy. But, amazingly, many Americans don’t know many of the facts about America’s independence. A famous media personality once interviewed a family of five, asking each of them from whom America won its independence. Neither the young boy nor his parents could answer the question. The grandfather correctly answered, “The British.” I am wondering how they would answer an even more basic question: “Are you free?” How would you answer that question?

One definition of the word freedom is: “exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc.” (Dictionary.com) We live in a free country, and yet so many Americans are bound by forces like painful memories, bad habits, unhealthy lifestyles, deep hurts and detrimental mindsets. Still others are not free due to external pressures such as: financial stress, peer pressure, performance issues, etc. We are a free country, but are we a free people?

I have had the privilege of watching hundreds of people discover a whole new, free life in the most unexpected place – a tank of water. I’ve watched their countenance changed in a moment’s time. Often they have made statements like: “I feel so much lighter; like a heavy load was taken off my shoulders.” How did they find this freedom? They repented and were baptized, in Jesus name. Yep – they found freedom by being dunked under water. They went into the water bound and came up free. I can’t explain it scientifically, but I have been witness to it hundreds of times. I’ve seen hundreds of miserable people change their lives simply by appropriating God’s plan for being set free. (See Acts 2:38).

Obviously, the key was not in that these people got wet. The key was in that they chose to place their lives in God’s hands. “…the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God’s promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 3:22) Once these people believed in Christ they obeyed His command to be baptized so their sins could be washed away. This act of obedience freed God to do an incomprehensible work in their hearts and minds. The power of sin was broken. Usually, God was then able to fill them with His Spirit and empower them to live life on a higher plain. Their trust and obedience made them free.

My prayer is that thousands more experience this ultimate freedom. This is the kind that makes the eternal soul free. This is the kind of freedom that makes a person forever-free! Free from hatred. Free from addictions. Free from self-deception. Free from all the prisons created by sin. St. Paul said it this way:. “…there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus… the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. (Romans 8:1 NLT) That is true freedom!

I say, “let freedom ring!” That familiar phrase is found in the patriotic song My Country Tis of Thee. It is also the name of a song, the name of a book, and the name of a political organization. But, as we approach another independence day, I offer it as a three-word prayer – Let freedom ring! Let freedom ring in your life – choose to be forever free.

Foul Language Exposes God’s Power

2008-06-13T12:28:00.001-04:00

The words grated on my ears. Embarrassed for the speaker and hearers alike, I was hoping the tirade would soon be over. In a fit of rage one family member had begun to unload a string of expletives on another. Nothing positive was being accomplished. The words didn’t even have any logical point; they were simply the strongest words the speaker could rouse. I was witnessing an explosion of emotions expressed through foul language. The entire exchange was unnecessary and unfruitful. Everyone was left poorer for it.

In my humble opinion cursing is all too common today. It seems there are few ladies and gentlemen left who still have enough respect and self control to use wholesome language. It can even be argued that cuss words have been so overused that they have lost their impact. Ironically much of the cursing which is rudely imposed upon decent people ends up proving something that many of the speakers have no intention of proving; their foul language is really a testimony that God is the most powerful force in the universe. Unrestrained tempers and tongues prove that God is real, powerful and good.

Think about it for a spell. No one says “Oh, Sally Marie” when they smash their thumb; they use the name of our Savior. No one asks Santa Clause to damn people; they appeal to God. No one calls someone an ear or a nose when they want to express their disdain; they refer to them with sexual innuendos. No one tells someone to go to Mars when they are disapproving; they send them to Hell, God’s place of judgment. Have you ever wondered why so many curse words are derivatives of God or Jesus? Have you ever wondered why so many words related to sex have become “dirty words?” Have you ever wondered why many angry people express their faith in God and Hell?

I have a theory. Cursing is man’s way of trying to express himself in the most powerful language available. Many times such words are fueled by anger and hatred. Frankly, when we are angry, it feels good to speak evil of something or someone else – especially those powers and subjects we know that we should honor and respect. When reaching for the most powerful expressions available, many people speak of God or of his most powerful creations. When someone curses God, he or she is proving that on a subconscious level they know that God is the most powerful entity against whom they could speak. Their very abuse of God, his name, and his most powerful creations, are an admission that He is the supreme power of the universe. In the ears of a perceptive listener, the “curser” is testifying of their own weakness and of God’s glory and power.

My heart is saddened every time I hear such unrestrained speech “Why would people take the name of someone who died for them, Jesus Christ, and turn it into a curse word?” There are two possible answers to that question: Either they don’t have any idea as to just how much Christ loves them, or they are proving that He is powerful but they are too proud or stubborn to let Him be their Savior. If Jesus is truly your Savior, you will love and respect Him too much to misuse His name or speak ill of His creation. If you obey the God who gave the ten commandments, will find more productive ways to express your feelings.

I appreciate the ladies and gentlemen among us who still guard their tongue, and I wonder if those who are given to foul language ever stop to realize how much their expletives really prove their indiscretion while also proving God’s glory and power.

Extraordinary Mothers’ Day For Local Woman

2008-04-24T15:38:00.001-04:00

I was staring at a miracle. Through the plastic window of the incubator I admired Jeremiah as he slept. Weighing in at two pounds, three ounces, and measuring fourteen inches long, he was the smallest human being I had ever laid eyes on. He could have rested comfortably in the palm of my hand. As my wife and I stood with his mother, we expressed our amazement. We all knew that Jeremiah was alive only because of a series of genuine miracles and the hard work of many diligent people in the medical profession. God and mankind, working together, saved the life of an eternal soul.
Several weeks earlier Jeremiah’s identical twin had died in his mother’s womb. Because the twins shared one umbilical cord, and since his brain, heart and lungs had been in great duress, the doctors had warned his parents that he would most likely die within a few days of his sibling. The situation was serious. The only reasonable thing to do was to pray for a miracle. His parents and their friends and acquaintances asked God to intervene. As a result, over the next few months, God did a series of medical miracles for which He was now receiving all the glory. After only 25 weeks in the womb, Jeremiah had dropped into position and slipped bravely out into a dangerous world.
With much diligent parenting and many more prayers, Jeremiah, his parents, and his three sisters have pushed through to a life of normalcy. Jeremiah passed a major milestone a couple of weeks ago - he was taken off the last of his medications. Soon he will be ready to leave his home and venture out into the real world. All of this, just in time for Mothers’ Day.
Many families will be celebrating Mother’s day on May 11th, but few will have such a story to tell as Jeremiah’s parents. He will attend church for the first time in his life this Mothers’ Day, and his mother and father will be publicly sharing the details of their extraordinary journey. They will be celebrating the many challenging events they encountered and the obvious divine interventions they witnessed. It will be a time when many friends and family will once again stand in awe at the God who makes all births possible. It will be a time when they will pause to consider the power of a praying mother and father. Many prayers of thanksgiving will be offered up to the God who still does the impossible.
Perhaps you and your family are facing circumstances that are beyond your control. Maybe you need a miracle. God is still in the miracle business. Prayer still works. Jeremiah is living proof.

The Apple of His Eye

2008-04-24T15:34:00.000-04:00

Nestled between Boston and Springfield, on the Southern border of Massachusetts, is the quaint, New England town of Southbridge. Because for many years American Optical (once the largest company of its kind) based its operations out of Southbridge, the town earned the nickname: “The Eye of the Commonweath.” American Optical has since taken its business elsewhere, but Southbridge has continued to make history in the area of optics – fiber optics. There are several fiber optic companies in town. Some have dubbed Southbridge the birthplace of fiber optics. But the nickname, “eye of the common wealth,” still stands.

Southbridge’s nickname reminds me of another -- God’s nickname for His people. Several times in Scripture those who believed in God as “the one and only God” were referred to as “The Apple of His Eye.” One psalmist prayed, “Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,” (Psalms 17:8) This endearing term made reference to the most important and most carefully guarded portion of the eye – the pupil.

God watches over his own as carefully as a person guards his very eyesight. Like a mother hen or a she-bear protects her young, God protects those who put their trust in Him. The Living Bible says it like this: "The Lord of Glory has sent me against the nations that oppressed you, for he who harms you sticks his finger in Jehovah's eye! I will smash them with my fist and their slaves will be their rulers! Then you will know it was the Lord Almighty who sent me.” (Zechariah 2:8-9) Throughout history God’s careful watch over His own was demonstrated:

He took care of the Israelites in the wilderness
He saved David from Giolath
He saved Daniel from the lions
He saved Jesus from the sword of Herod.

That is just a sampling of the many historically-proven Bible stories which illustrate His protective care.

Secular history, as well as other portions of Scripture, help us understand that even though God protects his own, He does not completely shield them from hurt and pain. Rather, ultimately, God keeps score. Sometimes He evens the score in “time”; other scores will be settled in “eternity.” The beauty of this truth is that those of us who trust Him can relax. Vengeance belongs to God, (Romans 12:19) so His children are free to let go of the offenses that people and life bring our way. People may mistreat us, but God will not fail us.

It is impossible to fathom just how much He loves His own! The Good News is that if you can truly believe in Jesus Christ and follow His plan for living, you will free Him to guard you like you were his very own eyesight. No one could be safer than the apple of His eye.

If you are wondering how God’s protection plays out in real life, there’s a great historical account of that in the Bible. The book of Acts tells the story of the disciples and other first-century Christians who put their trust in Christ. Their faith led them to repentance, baptism and the infilling of the Holy Spirit. They encountered life’s challenges knowing that God was on their side. Great miracles took place on their behalf. They became known as Christians.

We live in troubled times. The world economy is uncertain, world governments and world religions are volatile. How comforting it is to have the Creator of the universe watching over you in times like these. I am wondering if there might be some folks who live in the “eye of the commonwealth” who would be interested in trusting God more completely so they can be “the apple of His eye.”

Abstain? Preposterous!

2008-04-14T14:21:00.001-04:00

I genuinely appreciate the many dedicated professionals who speak reasonable caution into my life. Please allow me to thank a few of the professions which, because of their real-world experience, encourage me to abstain from things that would be harmful. Forgive me as I also mention a few tongue-in-cheek observations and then pose a few questions to some who are giving bad advice.

Let me start with you, Dr. Dentist. Thank you for reminding me to brush, floss and chew sugar free gum. I must note, however, that if I chose the lazy way you could just fill my cavities or pull my teeth. You could fix it, couldn't you?

Thank you, Dr. Psychiatrist, for recommending that I avoid caffeine, read good books, and find time to relax in order to calm my nerves. Although, I could just keep doing my own thing and you could give me a barbiturate instead. You could fix my nerves, couldn't you?

Thank you, Dr. Physician, for encouraging me to try salt-less popcorn, say “no” to smoking, and jog a little every day; you tell me to abstain so I can avoid cancer or a heart attack. But, doctor, even if I ignored your advice, you could cut out the cancer or fix my heart. You could probably fix me, couldn't you?

Thank you, Dr. Environmentalist, for insisting that I ban the Freon, burn cleaner fuels, and stop acid rain so as to preserve the health and beauty of our earth. But, honestly, couldn’t we blow it all off for now and worry about fixing it all later? It would be painful, but we could fix it later, couldn't we?

So many specialists seem to be telling me it is a noble thing to curb my appetite and to abstain. They say it is noble to show restraint and self-control so I can be healthy and save the planet. They wisely counsel: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." They so often recommend self-control and abstinence.

Ironically I am hearing very different advice concerning two of America's most destructive behaviors – sex outside of marriage, and alcohol abuse. This brings me to you, Dr. Social Engineer. In the name of courage and individualism you stand up and tell me that responsibility and abstinence are unrealistic, dirty words when it comes to these huge issues? Here’s the logic:

Why abstain from alcohol, when I can wait until I've cause a terrible car accident or misused a loved one? Then you can put me in jail and enroll me, my family and the families of those I hurt in programs that will assure us all that America is trying to solve this alcohol problem.
Why curb my sexual appetite when adoption or abortion can “fix” the problems caused by my irresponsible behavior? I know there will be physical and emotional scars. I know that it messes with my psyche and that it could devastate my loved ones, but abstain - preposterous!

Did I hear you right Dr Social Engineer? Are you counseling our kids to be promiscuous (being sure to use “protection” of course) pretending that “safe sex” will protect them against deadly viruses and soul-sickness? Are you looking the other way when major alcohol companies lure our youth to their product and then expecting that powerful drug to not have a negative impact on their lives? Are you thinking that, when they are ravaged by disease and emotional distress, someone may be ingenious enough to come up with a “cure” so we can put the abstinence crowd to silence once and for all? Should we really be making more noise about the ozone, red meat and junk food than we make about promiscuity and alcohol abuse? Dear Dr. Politically Correct Social Engineer, you may think it courageous to take a stand and tell us that responsible decisions and abstinence are too much to ask, but can we really fix it later?

Floating Lighthouses

2008-03-28T13:07:00.003-04:00

After a storm in late January of this year, a 19th-century schooner washed up on a beach in Wellfeet MA. Being one of the larger wrecks to appear in the past 10 years it serves as a gruesome reminder of the dangerous waters surrounding Cape Cod. According to the several Boston news programs, between 1850 and 1980, there were more than 3,500 shipwrecks in the waters off Cape Cod. In fact, so many ships have piled up on the hidden sand bars off the coast between Chatham and Provincetown that those fifty miles of sea have been called an "ocean graveyard."

A well-proven deterrent to shipwrecks is the simple, but effective, lighthouse. The oldest lighthouse in America is on Brewster Island in Boston Harbor. It has doubtless saved thousands of lives. Since 1716 Boston Light has never moved and has done one very simple thing – declared the shoreline. Still “today, Boston Light's 98 foot tower flashes its 1.75 million candlepower beacon every ten seconds, visible for 27 miles. The lighthouse is the last remaining manned station in the United States.” (www.lighthousegetaway.com/lights/boston.html)

Lighthouses are points of references. They are life savers. Their authority is powerfully validated when they are foolishly ignored. In other words, they are respected because they tell the truth about where the shoreline is. They don’t make the shoreline, they just declare the boundary to the sailor.

One of the cruelest deeds one could perpetrate on a sailor is to move the lighthouse. Worse yet, would be to set the lighthouse afloat, creating a beacon that moved with the tides or relocated at the whim of an ocean current. An un-anchored floating lighthouse would be a weapon of mass destruction.

There are some great, immovable, moral shorelines created by God. These are moral laws that cannot be ignored without serious repercussions. Nobody can change them. Millions have arrogantly ignored God’s moral laws only to crash against the natural consequences of such laws. In His love, God has appointed lighthouses, designed to spare the average sailor such demise. His lighthouses include: the Bible, governments, parents and churches.

One of the cruelest deeds that could be perpetrated upon our culture (especially on our children) would be to move the moral lighthouses; to change our morals and values according to the latest trends or currents. You will notice that the consistent “dumbing down” of American morals has resulted in thousands of tragic and bizarre headlines describing shipwrecks that include mass shootings, baby killings, cannibalism, teacher/student scandals, abuse, and the rampant meltdowns of the rich and the famous.

Where are our lighthouses? Have they been extinguished by the fear of not being politically correct? Do we actually believe that if we say the dangerous rocks are no longer there that they will not cause any more ships to wreck? Does moving the lighthouse move the shoreline? Of course not! Saying something is right does not make it right.

For the record, the shoreline has not moved. Please be advised:

It has been, and will always be, wrong to murder, to have sex outside of marriage, to lie, to abuse your body and to dishonor your parents.
True love, faithfulness to your spouse and children, and hard work have always been and will continue to be the real keys to a good family life.
Selflessness, righteousness and gentleness are still better friends than selfishness, sin and hatred.

Our “enlightened world” thinks it has invented new morals. The problem is they don’t have the authority to do so. “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,” (Romans 1:22) Their “enlightenment” is nothing more than a floating lighthouse. It is worse than no lighthouse at all because their floating light is often trusted - directing more unsuspecting sailors to their inevitable destruction.

Thank God for all you teachers, parents, pastors, bosses, neighbors, and other influencers who have refused to move your lighthouses in response to the intimidation of the politically-correct crowd. You may tire of holding fast in the storm, but that is when you are needed most. Don’t move. Stay bright. The coastline can be brutal, but your consistent moral beacon will make all the difference in the life of some young sailor.

A Snapshot of God

2008-03-28T13:04:00.000-04:00

My wife has tastefully displayed numerous photos throughout our home. Some of them are of relatives I never met; I know them only by their picture. Several snapshots are of my mother. Because she died over twenty years ago, just a few months before my one and only son was born, the only way my son can know my mother is by looking at her photo. Without the snapshot he would have no idea what she looked like.
Each spring as believers celebrate Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday (Easter) one might ask the question: “Who was Jesus, and why do so many people around the world hold His life and teachings in such high regard?” The short answer to that question is: Jesus is a snapshot of God.

At first such a statement might strike the reader as being irreverent, but my meaning is quite the opposite. Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He was God made understandable to mankind. He was the end result of the brilliant idea of God, Himself. God wanted to introduce Himself to His creation, so he lived in a human body and gave the world a glimpse of how loving, powerful and gentle He really is.

This concept is made clear in the Bible. One scripture says that Jesus “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (Colossians 1: 15,16) Did you catch that? He is the image of God – a snapshot. Another scripture describes Jesus as “the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person.” (Hebrews 1:3)

This explains why the Bible sometimes seems to speak of Jesus as separate from the Father and then at other times as one with the father. The Father was in the Son. (John 17) Jesus was God in a human body. When the prophet Isaiah predicted Jesus’ coming, he called Him “the mighty God… the everlasting Father.” (Isaiah 9:6) Jesus was the Creator who robed Himself in flesh so we could get to know Him and so He could reconcile us unto Himself. (Colossians 1:20) What an awesome idea! What a graceful thing to do!

People around the world worship Jesus because they recognize that God lowered himself, became a man and died for sinners. (Philippians 2). As God, His plan was always to be born in a manger as a God-man, demonstrate His character as a teacher and miracle worker, and then lay down His life for His friends. That’s what God looks like.

The Easter season is a celebration of the culmination of Jesus’ life. He laid down His life, and three days later he took it up again. He overcame death and hell. Later he would walk through walls and then defy gravity. All this was a beautiful snapshot of God’s divine love and power. Because we have this snapshot – this historical evidence - we can have confidence that the Bible is accurate when it speaks of a time when Christ will return and take both living and dead Christians out of this world. His resurrection reassures us of ours.

It’s no wonder people gather in churches to celebrate Easter. It’s no wonder they gather every Sunday to celebrate the day Jesus rose from the dead. If you’ve lost sight of God, perhaps this Sunday would be a good day to stop by a church and have a fresh look at Jesus – He was the image of the invisible God.

Christianity Like It Was Meant To Be

2008-02-19T17:02:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time, deep in the heart of New England, lived a family of squirrels. Sheltered in the strong branches of a giant oak tree, they enjoyed the “good life”, gladly sharing a plentiful supply of acorns and a fresh- water spring. Although gathering food took a great deal of work and enduring the winters was difficult, these happy critters had a sense that this was how things ought to be.

One spring morning these country squirrels were awakened by the screaming of chain saws and the rumblings of a bulldozer. It seems a visionary developer had devised a plan that would bring "improvements" to the area. Architects had designed a huge mall that would surround the great oak, incorporating it into a beautiful courtyard which would be covered with enormous skylights.

The building process was unsettling at first, but soon they became accustomed to commotion and, eventually, adjusted to the many changes. Now the climate was milder, the food was different, and they had much less interaction with nature. Their beloved acorns were regularly swept up and disposed of, but now there was caramel corn, salted peanuts and milkshakes a-plenty. And, the trash bins were gold mines!

Years passed. Now, younger squirrels rolled their eyes as grandma and grandpa squirrel chattered about the good old days. They talked about acorns, fresh water, and warm sunlight, but everyone knew they had over-active memories. Two generations lived and died in this new man-made environment. Due to the mild climate and unhealthy food many of squirrels were sickly. Because of their confinement, they were always on each other's nerves. They often wondered about the meaning of life; what was the purpose of waking up, eating garbage, and watching frenzied shoppers rush by?

Then, one glorious day a daring squirrel escaped. Curious about the bright skylights, he jumped from an upper branch of the tree to a pole. Climbing the pole he came to a ceiling beam which took him to an air vent. Slipping through the vent he plopped out onto the roof. What sensations accosted him! Dazzling sunlight, warm, fresh air and new vistas overwhelmed his senses. Scurrying down a rain gutter to a parking lot, he dodged traffic and darted into the undeveloped woods nearby. For hours he roamed, discovering nuts, acorns, fresh water and healthy squirrels.

Thrilled with his new life, he retraced his steps and breathlessly told his peers of the wonderful “real” world outside. They laughed, declaring, “That kind of world doesn’t exist any more!” Disappointed that they would not believe, the squirrel quietly slipped back out into life - as it was meant to be.

Once upon a time not long after the Day of Pentecost, some Christians were having church like it was meant to be. But then developers came along. “Progress” was made. Creeds were written, rituals were developed, and soon the climate seemed to be a little more controlled. Eventually services were planned to the smallest detail, politically incorrect doctrines were carefully altered, action was taken to make the church more culturally sensitive, and institutions and procedures were established to insure that all interaction with the real spiritual world was carefully buffered by "the church". No longer were people challenged to pick up their crosses. Money or good works became the means to forgiveness rather than godly sorrow and repentance. Baptism was redefined and speaking in tongues was considered a thing of the past. Soon, nothing more than obscure references to real Christianity survived. Christians became emaciated and sickly.

But occasionally some brave soul will escape back to the original. (see the book of Acts) Upon doing so, their spiritual senses are overwhelmed with God’s love and power. Their lives are drastically changed. Of course, others often laugh or persecute them. Nevertheless, Christianity - like it was meant to be - can still be a reality. Maybe you should slip out and take a peek.

Jesus; In A Class Of His Own

2008-01-25T15:26:00.000-05:00

A ton of granite pebbles is sold for ten dollars. The Hope Diamond, could be sold for two hundred fifty million dollars - more than most of us will earn in a lifetime. What’s the difference? Aren’t they all hard rocks? Yes, but the 45.52 carat Hope Diamond is many times harder, infinitely more transparent, much more beautiful, and extremely rare; it is in a class of its own.

The same is true of people. Throughout history, there have been millions of important religious leaders, prophets and teachers. But none of them have affected mankind as powerfully and positively as Jesus Christ. Someone might ask, “What makes Jesus different?” He is in a class of His own. He is one of a kind.

Perhaps, like me, you have often been surprised at the intellectual dishonesty of many people who are attempting to be politically correct and refer to Jesus as just one of the great prophets or teachers. Jesus was not like other great religious leaders. He is in a league of His own. Consider a short list of exceptional qualities that set Jesus Christ far apart from any other historical, religious leader:

His birth, ministry, death, and resurrection were accurately predicted by hundreds of scriptures, which were written by multiple prophets, who lived in varied times and places.
He was virgin-born.
Angels declared His birth and a star marked His birthplace.
He healed many diseases and performed many miracles.
He raised three people from the dead – one of them had been dead for three days.
He claimed to be God.
He predicted his own death and resurrection.
He rose from the dead.
He ascended into heaven with a promise to return.
He left with a promise to fill believers with His Spirit, which took place 10 days later and continues to take place until this day.

In addition to the distinctive qualities mentioned above, it must be noted that Jesus didn’t claim to be a prophet -- He claimed to be God in flesh. That is why the Jews considered Him to be a blasphemer. (John 8) Jesus’ contemporaries didn’t object to His good teaching; they objected to His claim to be God. In fact, the primary doctrine that still sets true Christianity apart from other religions is the claim that Jesus is God and that “there is none other name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

If Jesus were just a good man, the greatest doctrine of Christianity would not be possible. Christianity is all about the redemptive death of Jesus Christ. The death of a great man would not have been valuable enough to pay for the sins of mankind. Only the blood of a spotless Lamb could do that. Jesus was not simply a prophet, a great teacher, or the founder of a great religion. Jesus was God manifested in flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He was God in Christ, reconciling the world to himself. (2 Corinthians 5:19) He was “the image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15) He was, and is, “the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace...”(Isaiah 9:6)

The uniqueness and divinity of Christ may not be evident to everyone quite yet, but one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord.” (Philippians 2:10-11) And, because Jesus is so rare… so special… so priceless, true believers commit every aspect of their lives to Him. They do not lump Him in with other prophets and teachers. They recognize that He is in a class of His own. He is one of a kind.

Thank You Ladies and Gentlemen

2008-01-04T17:59:00.000-05:00

A man and a woman were approaching the entryway of a public building. Recognizing they would arrive at the door simultaneously, the man quickened his step, opened the door, and stood aside so the woman could enter the building. The woman, obviously offended, stopped and said, “You don’t need to hold the door for me just because I’m a woman.” To which the man aptly replied, “Ma’am, I am not holding the door for you because you’re a woman, I am holding the door for you because I am a gentleman.”

I love that story because it capsulizes a whole philosophy of life – the philosophy that good character should trump outside influences. How refreshing it is to meet people who are doing the right thing because it is in their character, not because a law, a politically-correct pressure group, or a peer has forced them to do so. What a blessing it is to encounter a real lady or a real gentleman.

I would like to thank all the:

Gentlemen who still hold doors -- because they respect other people.
Ladies who dress modestly rather than scantily or suggestively -- because they are civilized and tasteful.
Gentlemen who still avoid cussing and obscene gestures -- because they still exercise self-control.
Ladies who don’t paint, puncture, overfeed or underfeed their body -- because they have self respect and will not let trends or peer pressure dictate how they care for or present themselves.
Gentlemen who do not steal or lie -- because they are honest.
Ladies who do not put themselves in situations where drugs or alcohol cause them to hurt others or themselves -- because they are responsible.
The gentlemen who are faithful to one wife and who take care of their children -- because God designed families to be safe that way.
Ladies who selflessly nurture their children – because it is one of the greatest privileges in life.

Such people make for a great society and for great families. I have often heard people argue that there is no such thing as “Leave it to Beaver families” any more. Such families are considered nerdy, dorky or boring. I would contend that safe, kind, self-respecting families are not only possible, but they are the only hope for a faltering society. Politicians, programs, laws, or even dictators are powerless to give this kind of life to anyone. This kind of life must be laid hold of individual by individual…. day by day… choice by choice. People who develop these qualities are rare and valuable, indeed.

I was born to a lady and a gentlemen. They were not afraid to instill character into me even though I was a toddler in the 60s. Later, in high school, I took a good deal of flack because I chose not to drink, sleep around or do drugs. I am not as proud of that as I am thankful for those who prompted me to make choices that would serve me well. The most valuable things my parents gave me were imposed discipline, morals and values. I have since researched, tested and accepted them for my own. I don’t live the way I do because a church, government, peer group or society force me to; I live the way I do because it is who I am.

When God came up with the idea of people, His goal was to give everyone a life that was “rich and satisfying.” (see John 10:10 NLT) That kind of life starts with character. Are you truly your own person? Are you brave enough to buck culture, trends, talking heads, and peer pressure in order to be someone you can respect? Being a genuine lady or gentleman is nothing to be ashamed of… everybody wins when you exhibit good character without apology.

Ladies and Gentlemen: thank you for seasoning our society with goodness. I, for one, would like to make your acquaintance.

A Supernatural Season

2007-12-24T13:11:00.000-05:00

Consider just how supernatural the first Christmas was:
o Joseph decided to marry Mary because of a dream.
o Mary talked with an angel who predicted two extraordinary births.
o Shepherds told people they saw a host of angels in the sky.
o Wise men were led by a star and later by a dream.
o Joseph moved to Egypt on account of another dream.
o Anna and Simeon heard promises from God and then prophesied.

And all of this so that a Savior could be born, and many souls could be brought into His kingdom.

Then came the early church - operating in the same Spirit:
o Peter dreamed a dream and talked with an angel.
o The disciples cast out devils, healed the sick and raised the dead.
o First century Christians were healed of snake bites, saved from accidents, released from prison, raised from the dead, and even translated.
o These believers were led to cities and away from cities - by the Spirit.

And all of this so that many souls could be added to the kingdom.

The Bible predicts that in the “last days” that same Spirit will move on and through believers. It predicts that:
o God will pour out His Spirit on all flesh - He will do a quick work.
o Believers will be used to heal people and cast out devils.
o There will be visions and dreams and a demonstration of supernatural “gifts.”
o All of this is going to happen where God’s people believe he is the same yesterday today and forever.
o All of this will happen where people pray and obey.

And all of this so that many souls can be added to the kingdom.

Dare to believe God for the supernatural this Christmas!

Christianity's First Sermon

2007-12-14T15:43:00.000-05:00

Have you ever probed the teachings of Christianity only to become confused at the diversity of thought and doctrine? Have you wondered why there are so many different kinds of churches? Who is right and how can anyone be sure? This line of questioning is especially important with regards to salvation; how can an honest and sincere believer be sure they are bound for heaven?

Allow me to propose a very logical, simple and sure way to settle these questions: Do your own investigation. Go back to the original documents. Find out what Jesus and His disciples taught. Read what the founding fathers of Christianity had to say.

Providentially, the account of the first Christian meeting ever held was documented in great detail and went something like this: The audience was engaged. Thousands of people were attempting to get a better view of the phenomenon everyone was talking about – people were praying, acting drunk and speaking in languages they had never learned. Simon Bar Jonah was addressing the crowd and explaining how Jesus Christ, the man who had recently been crucified, was really their Messiah. Simon, who most people would later call St. Peter, was giving the very first sermon ever preached in a Christian meeting. This was the “Day of Pentecost.” This was the day God chose to pour out His Spirit. Jesus had instructed His followers to go to Jerusalem and wait for “power from on high.” (Luke 24:49) These people were experiencing the grand opening of the Christian church.

For people who are interested in getting “to the bottom of things” or back to the original Gospel, the above story is a gold mine. It is preserved in the historical book of Acts (chapter two). St. Luke, a physician, transcribed the original message that was preached by St. Peter on the day the church was started. The crux of Peter’s sermon came when his deeply convicted audience asked what they should do to be saved. Peter gave profound and concise instructions on how to be saved. He had already explained God’s role in salvation, but then he clearly outlined what someone should do if they want to be saved (born again). In addition, he promised them that God would respond to their obedience in a spectacular fashion by filling them with His Spirit.

These are the original instructions for salvation which St. Peter outlined in the first Christian sermon ever preached:

“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” (Acts 2:38-39)

The first altar call was truly spectacular. After that first sermon, preached by St. Peter on the day that the church was born, 3000 people responded and were baptized in Jesus’ name. In the coming days thousands more would obey and be filled with the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in “other tongues.” Two thousand years later, after much politics, many doctrinal statements and revisions, there are many people who prefer the original salvation message - a message that has not been tampered with or complicated. Many people still baptize in Jesus’ name and receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, just like Peter and the disciples did. It’s original, and it is powerful!

Are You a Fan of God?

2007-11-17T12:06:00.001-05:00

You’ve seen the reports. They bring sleeping bags and snacks so they can spend the night in line. The fact that it is raining or the thermometer registers below freezing doesn’t phase them. They gladly pay a week’s wages for a chance to sit in on a hard chair, eat unhealthy food, and scream for hours on behalf of some overpaid people they have never met. Millions of them show up to parades and lavish praise on guys who may even be playing against their team next year. They charter planes, buy expensive, team clothing, and arrange their entire life around game times and locations. A signed pigskin is more valuable to them than anything else they own. It sounds drastic, but that’s what dedicated ball-club fans do!

The commitment, intensity and clamor of fans is always a bit startling. Many impassioned fans unashamedly express extreme emotions by screaming, stomping their feet, raising their hands, exposing or painting their bodies, or even crying. This is true whether the fans are swooning at the voice of a popular vocalist, giving a standing ovation to a politician, scrambling for the autograph of a movie star or spending their life’s savings to sit at the feet of a guru.

By-in-large most of us fully embrace, or at least tolerate, this kind of behavior. At times we may chuckle that someone could get so excited over so little, but there are few who have not participated in the same kind of hero worship. In most societies such behavior is considered normal; some might go so far as to call it healthy. After all, what is wrong with acknowledging someone’s talents and accomplishments? Isn’t it only natural to admire and demonstrate approval toward those who have distinguished themselves in some manner?

I am puzzled, however, at the one exception to this rule that some, appear to take – many people express strong disapproval when they witness others who are openly expressing their feelings toward God. I find it incredible that the One who deserves the most exuberant fans must often settle for quiet, subdued acknowledgments for what He has done. Isn’t it odd that some folks express great passion in the sports arena or music hall, then hypocritically cluck their tongues at those who respond to The Most Famous Hero with any measure of emotion or public expression? That’s not what real fans do!

Considering that man has always openly and demonstratively expressed approval and adoration of other men in a public manner, doesn’t it only seem natural that people who adore God would do the same? Somehow a standing ovation seems appropriate for a “Creator.” When one is in the presence of the “King of kings” it is no wonder they feel compelled to bow down or raise their hands in praise. An encounter with the “Prince of peace” is bound to bring a profound emotional response. Shouting accolades to the one who is responsible for every good thing in one’s life seems like the proper thing to do. In fact, God, Himself, directs His people to worship Him demonstratively. Here is a solitary example of His many such sovereign mandates:

Come, everyone! Clap your hands!

Shout to God with joyful praise!

For the Lord Most High is awesome.

He is the great King of all the earth.
Psalm 47:1-2 (NLT)

Are you a fan of God? Do you express your approval of God as passionately and unashamedly as you express your approval of your team… your band… or your favorite star? If you’ve never sung, shouted, or clapped you adoration to the Most High, you’ve missed a great privilege. Such behavior is not out of order; it is very biblical and very powerful. If you are a fan of God, don’t be afraid to act like it – that’s what fans do!

Call Me Anything You Please?

2007-10-15T14:17:00.000-04:00

Just how important is a name? How important is your name -- to you? Would it bother you if people used your name to express disgust (e.g. “Oh, Randy! I smashed my thumb.”)? How about if people began calling you by your neighbor’s name? Would you have a problem with your employer making out your paycheck in someone else’s name? These ideas may sound ridiculous, but, sadly, this very concept was recently proposed by a prominent religious leader.

On August 15, 2007 MSNBC reported that “Bishop Tiny Muskens, from the southern diocese of Breda, told Dutch television on Monday that God did not mind what he was named and that in Indonesia, where Muskens spent eight years, priests used the word ‘Allah’ while celebrating Mass.” http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20279326/

This may be a creative approach to appeasing the Muslim community, but I see two problems:
1. Radical Muslims will not be satisfied.
2. God will be furious.

The same MSNBC article reports that Mr. Muskens went on to ask, “What does God care what we call him?” This is a shocking question for anyone who is even remotely familiar with the Holy Scripture. The Bible repeatedly declares that God will defend His name, and the following scriptures are only a sampling of the many Bible verses that tell us that the name of Jesus has been given the highest honor.

Colossians 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
Philippians 2:9-10 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

The name “Jesus” means “Jehovah is become our salvation.” Matthew 1:23 explains that Jesus was “God with us.” That makes His name extremely important. A simple reading of “The Book of Acts” (the fourth book of the New Testament) will clearly reveal how important Jesus’ name was to the early Christians who were “called by His name.” First-century believers baptized in Jesus name, healed people in Jesus name, cast out devils in Jesus name and, ultimately, died because they would not deny Jesus’ name. The disciples and company were not persecuted because they were religious, nor because they performed miracles-- they were persecuted because they stood by the name of Jesus and declared Him to be their Lord.

Millions of Christians throughout the ages, and throughout the world, have literally given their lives because they refused to deny Jesus’ name. It may be that our world culture will soon ask believers in all nations to deny His name. Staying true to His name may soon be politically incorrect -- even in “God blessed” America. If so, true followers of Christ will have the opportunity to underscore the significance, the beauty, and the power of His name, by holding to Scripture rather than scrambling to make a religious or political group happy. Let me invite you to join the many believers who have discovered the power in Jesus name.

Pray in His name and you will see results. Baptize in His name and He will claim you as one of His. Defend His name, and, because it will cost you, you will discover just how much Jesus means to you. One day every tongue will confess, but today you can be numbered among those who honor Jesus’ name out of a love and respect for their God and Savior.

A word to the wise: Call Him “Jesus,” because, according to Scripture, it just won’t work to call Him anything you please.

Saving Lives

2007-09-28T10:49:00.000-04:00

A small group of grade-school children gawked as lawmen swarmed over the neighbor’s house and property. An ambulance was summoned. We sixth-graders were shocked and dismayed to discover that our schoolmates’ 21-year-old brother had taken his own life. Yesterday he was alive; today he was gone… forever. In my Montana town, in the late 60s, we were not accustomed to such loss. Even today, few things are as difficult to deal with as the suicide of a loved one.

Suicide has become a significant problem in our society. ABC News recently reported that, according to The World Health Organization, suicide claims more lives each year than war and homicide combined. Worldwide, almost 1 million people take their own lives each year -- a figure which exceeds the annual death toll from war and murder. Furthermore, for every suicide, there are also 10 to 20 failed attempts, resulting in injury and emotional trauma. (www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/ 200409/s1195536.htm)

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in the United States roughly one individual commits suicide every 17 minutes, and the total number of suicide deaths exceeds 30,000 annually. The CDC goes on to point out that the strongest risk factors for attempted suicide in youth are depression, alcohol or other drug use disorders, and aggressive or disruptive behaviors. (www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/suifacts.htm)

Our country has recently been embroiled in a vicious debate over America’s involvement in the Iraqi war, because of the many lives that have been lost. Meanwhile, a more serious killer continues taking the lives of the young and old, alike, as if it were a sniper silently picking off his victims – over 80 people every day! What is to be done? How can these lives be saved? How can war be waged against the invisible enemies of depression, abuse, discouragement, hate and despair?

The Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders (www.minddisorders.com/ Py-Z/Suicide.html)
has scientifically concluded that there are some factors that lower a person’s risk of suicide. Five of those factors are as follows:

A significant friendship network outside the workplace
Religious faith and practice
A stable marriage
A close-knit extended family
A strong interest in or commitment to a project or cause that brings people together

It would appear that we all have some home work to do; some home work that could be as significant as stopping a war. As I read those factors it occurred to me that all of those factors can be provided by a strong, Bible-based church. Could it be that as families break up and church attendance deteriorates in our society, suicides increase? If I were the devil I would convince people to leave their homes and their churches. Without those two protections we are all easy targets for depression, addictions, despair, etc.

It has been my experience that a healthy church goes a long way toward saving lives. Here are a few blessing a church can provide:

Classes for children and youth.
Trusted friendships.
Planned activities that include the whole family.
Ministry to individuals that make them better spouses, parents and children.
Opportunities to be involved in life-saving projects.

Many churches, such as the church I pastor, are full of people whom God has healed of depression and addictions that could have led to suicide. Many families in our assembly have been restored or strengthened as a result of their involvement in church activities. The truth is that God not only saves eternal souls, but He saves people’s lives by giving them deliverance, peace, joy, and power. Who knows, your involvement with such a church could save your life or the life of someone you love.

There are many lives that need saving right in our own neighborhoods. I would like to extend my commendations to every one who is working to save lives by making their marriage work, by loving their children, or by being faithful to their local church. Thanks for being part of the solution to this grave problem. Thanks for saving lives!

Local Woman Stumbles Onto Treasure

2007-08-24T17:56:00.001-04:00

Buried treasure and unexpected wealth have been the subject of many a daydream and fictional story. Most of us imagine such fortune, but don’t truly expect it to come our way. It can happen. I recently had the privilege of meeting a real person, who lives just a few miles from us, who stumbled on a real treasure a few years ago. My heart was warmed as this successful business-woman described her life-changing experience.

She began by telling me that her personal journey began in a good home and included a close relationship with God at a young age. She attended a very formal church and later married and joined another church that placed great emphasis on religious services, but little emphasis on Bible reading and personal prayer. She lived what others perceived to be a happy and successful life.

Then came the storms. Personal situations taxed her heart and emotions. People let her down. Although she had been faithful to God and her church, she felt like she was lacking the power and strength to face her situation. While alone one evening she began pouring out her heart to God; for hours she opened her soul and cried out to God for help. That is when she stumbled on the treasure. While praying she suddenly heard herself speaking in a language she did not understand. At first she thought she was dreaming. She had never seen this happen before and immediately she began to question the experience. In days to come this experience reoccurred, peaking her curiosity.

Taken back and wanting to be cautious about getting into something “weird”, she began seeking answers in the Bible. Her research revealed that “speaking in tongues” was a very valid and Biblical experience. She discovered that she had received the baptism of the Holy Spirit! The Book of Acts records that this experience took place in the lives of thousands of first century Christians, including the twelve disciples and Mary, the mother of Jesus. When Saint Peter explained the experience to inquisitive observers, he quoted an Old Testament prophet and reassured everyone that the experience was for them, their children, and everyone that God would call to Him. (Acts 2:16-17,38-39)

So, there you have it: This New England native, who attended a church that didn’t even mention this Biblical phenomenon, asked for the strength or power to face her troubles and God gave her an experience she didn’t understand. She has since continued to enjoy a deeper and more powerful relationship with God. She has come to realize that she stumbled on a treasure. When Saint Paul talked about someone having the Holy Spirit in them he described it as a “treasure in earthen vessels.” (II Corinthians 4:7) In another letter Saint Paul wrote: “A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally… I thank God that I speak in tongues more than any of you.” (I Corinthians 14:4,18 NLT) This woman had stumbled on the greatest treasure a person can find – God’s power within them.

Throughout history many Christians like the Waldenses, participants in the Great Awakenings (including many in New England), and the Shakers rediscovered this power that was made available to all believers just a few days after Jesus ascended into heaven. Today there are millions of Christians from almost every denomination who have experienced the joy of this great treasure. Maybe this is the kind of treasure for which your soul is longing.

Stairway to Heaven

2007-08-24T17:54:00.001-04:00

In 1971 Led Zeppelin IV released a song written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. The song became one of the most well-known and popular rock songs ever, in spite of the fact that it was never released as a single. It is still thought to be the biggest-selling single piece of sheet music in the world. To this day, it continues to top radio lists of the greatest rock songs, including Rolling Stones, 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song is Stairway To Heaven.

Many readers may be familiar with the song Stairway to Heaven, but few may be aware that the Bible spoke of The Stairway to Heaven thousands of years ago -- the real Stairway to Heaven. The Stairway mentioned in Scripture is far more beautiful and powerful than the stairway Led sang about. Millions of people, worldwide, have sung about the Stairway to which I refer. Perhaps it’s time you joined the chorus.

Jesus, Himself, told us He was the “Stairway to Heaven.” When choosing His disciples He invited Nathaniel to join His team, and told him that he (supernaturally) saw him under a fig tree. When Nathaniel expressed his awe at Jesus’ supernatural power, Jesus said:

“Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” Then he said, “I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth.” (John 1:50-51 NLT)

Just as Jacob’s ladder (a type of Christ - Genesis 28) provided a way for angels to go between heaven and earth, the life of Jesus bridged the gap between heaven and earth. He came here so we could go there! He broke a barrier so we could pass from death to life John 5:24). By His incarnation (becoming a man), He became “The Stairway to Heaven.”

Below is a short list of scriptural references that teach this concept:

· He was the one-and-only God-man; He was virgin-born (Matthew 1:23).

· In Scripture Jesus is referred to many times as the Son of God and many other times as the Son of Man.

· God took on the form of man (Philippians 2:7), manifested Himself in flesh (I Timothy 3:16), and became the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15).

· He is called “The Way, the Truth and the Life,” (John 14:6) and He referred to Himself as the only door to eternal life (John 10:9).

· First century Christians were saved by calling on the name of the Lord (i.e. being baptized, calling on the name of Jesus – Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16).

· He promised to live in us (John 14:17-18) and Scripture declares that His Spirit in us will make it possible for us to be caught up to heaven when Christ returns (Romans 8:11).

Most people will admit their desire to go to heaven. Heaven is not earned; it is an awesome gift. God went out of His way to make it available to everyone. You have been invited to take that Stairway to Heaven. If you don’t know how there’s a great, self-guided online Bible study and a short video presentation available at www.ActsII.org. Jesus Christ is the only one Stairway to Heaven, but He is accessible to anyone humble enough to do life God’s way. Go ahead, take the first step!

Everybody Is Spiritual

2007-07-06T14:46:00.001-04:00

We are not in control of most things. Wars break out. Health fails. Accidents happen. Jobs terminate. Economies shift. Other people make choices that impact us. Governments and companies effect large populations. So often good or evil appears to intersect our life as a random blessing or misfortune that is, in great measure, beyond our control.

Some may view these realities as reason to dismiss the idea of a good God. Others may choose to give up trying, since so many things seem unchangeable. I see a silver lining. While there are many things out of our immediate jurisdiction, each of us has the power to control the most important thing in our life - our eternal destiny.

We each choose our ultimate future now by deciding what will motivate and control us -- today. Will we be moved and directed by good or by evil? Will we choose faith or fury? Will we choose to live life as God intended or as we see fit? The Good News is that what we call life is only the antechamber to real life. During our brief time on earth we have the privilege of choosing how we will spend eternity. We get to make the most important choice anyone ever makes concerning our life!

Someone might counter, “Well, that’s fine for you, but I’m not a spiritual person.” The fact is that we are all spiritual. Some of us are just more aware of how we are affected by good and evil. Every human being is an eternal personality in a human body. The body will not last, but the person inside will live forever. You are not flesh and bone; you are a spiritual being.

The computer is an interesting analogy of a human being. Electricity gives a computer life. Hardware is the body that houses the computer. All of the activity that happens as a result of the interaction of electricity and hardware constitutes a computer’s purpose or “personality.” For a computer to be a good, healthy and productive tool, a few key questions need to be considered:

What kind of software is influencing the hardware?
What is being stored on the hard drive?
Are viruses corrupting its operation or data?
What kind of firewall is protecting the hardware and software?
Who is at the keyboard or what other computers are interacting with its systems?

Life is a gift given to all of us by God. We live in a body. Our mind, will, and emotions are what make us living souls. Our personality is the result of our spirit living in our body. If we want to be healthy and whole for eternity there are a few key questions that need to be considered:

What spirits, attitudes and ideas are you allowing to influence your mind, will, and emotions?
Has the virus of sin corrupted your software or hardware? If so, have you run the antiviral solution of salvation by grace, through obedient faith?
What morals and values dictate your daily behavior?
Is your spirit (with the help of the Holy Spirit) in charge of your soul and body, or are you running backwards?

Life is so much more positive when we focus on what we can change. We can change our attitudes, our thinking patterns, and our heart - those are spiritual issues that will impact our eternity. People who understand this concept work hard to care for the spiritual well-being of themselves and their loved ones. Spiritually aware people put their trust in God and do their best to take His advice. They pray, read the Bible and attend church services because they realize they are a spiritual being, and they want to make sure their “forever” is in God’s hands. One could pretend they are not spiritual but that wouldn’t make their eternal nature “go away,” it would only cause them to forfeit the only thing that they can really control – where they spend eternity.

Everybody is spiritual. People never die... that’s why we value their birth... that is why we treat them with respect. that is why we encourage them to take so much care as to how they prepare for the biggest part of their existence -- eternity.

Who Are Those Pentecostals?

2007-05-11T11:16:00.000-04:00

Who are those Pentecostals? A better question to start with might be: What is “The Day of Pentecost?” Pentecost is a national Jewish feast day that was established under the Mosaic law. “Pentecost means fiftieth and the feast was named accordingly since it took place fifty days after the Feast of the Passover. The feast was instituted to celebrate the end of the grain harvest; it was a kind of thanksgiving feast.

The Day of Pentecost became significant to Christians because it was the day God chose to pour out His Spirit on His followers. In other words, The Day of Pentecost became the birthday of the church. (See Acts chapters 1 & 2) When Jesus ascended into heaven, He instructed His followers to go to Jerusalem and wait for power. They did as He commanded and were not disappointed. After ten days of prayer and waiting, some astonishing demonstrations of God’s power took place. The Bible tells us there was “a sound as of a rushing might wind”, that there appeared “cloven tongues like as unto fire,” and that “they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4) The church service that ensued was spontaneous, noisy and joyful. The whole town noticed. Some people thought they were drunk. Peter preached a powerful sermon, explaining that this outpouring of the Holy Spirit had been predicted by the prophet Joel. Thousands of people became believers on that day.

Modern day Pentecostals are quick to identify the Day of Pentecost as their roots. More recently, however, the movement was fanned into flame in the early 1900s. People like Charles Parham and his Bible school students began studying the Bible to determine what was the primary evidence of the infilling of the Holy Spirit in the first century Church. These pioneers read the accounts in Acts 2, 8, 10 and 19 which recorded the conversion experience of early believers. They noticed that the Bible almost always clearly stated that these people spoke in “other tongues” when they were baptized with the Holy Spirit.

Inspired by these re-discovered conversion accounts, people from many faiths began seeking to know God in the same measure as Jesus’ disciples, Jesus’ mother, and other first century Christians knew Him. Soon many people began to experience this “infilling.” Powerful meetings broke out in places like Houston, TX, Los Angeles, CA, and Topeka Kansas. A meeting on Asuza Street in Los Angeles became particularly influential in spreading this new “fire”. The Pentecostal/Charismatic movement has since jumped denominational lines and affected all of Christianity.

“Many call Pentecostalism Christianity's most notable development of the last 100 years, and its phenomenal growth could make it the biggest church story of the next century as well… Scholars estimate that there are 10 million Pentecostals in the United States and 400 million to 600 million worldwide, or about one-quarter of the world's Christian population. The movement is far larger outside the United States, in Latin America, Africa and Asia, where Christianity is experiencing its greatest growth.” (www.religionlink.org/tip_060130.php)

Pentecostal churches tend to focus on vibrant singing and worship, anointed preaching, and a whole-hearted response to the “moving” of the Holy Spirit. Their services are often marked by divine healing, sincere commitment, and times of prayer in which people continue to experience the infilling of the Holy Spirit, initially evidenced by speaking in a language they do not know. This dynamic interaction with the Almighty God makes church a powerful and interactive experience. Perhaps that is why it is the fastest growing movement in the Christian community.

Who are those Pentecostals? They are people who want the twenty-first century church to be just as powerful and responsive as the first century church. May 27, 2007 is Pentecost Sunday. You might consider furthering your religious education by visiting a Pentecostal Church on Pentecost Sunday.

There's A Hole In The Sky

2007-05-11T11:15:00.000-04:00

Not to worry… this is not an alarm that the sky is falling, nor is it a warning that the ozone is deteriorating. The hole I refer to is a much more significant and encouraging hole than any hole in the atmosphere could ever be; it is a hole made by the Creator Himself.

Each Easter believers celebrate the fact that Jesus overcame sin, death and the grave when he punched a hole in the ground. First century eyewitnesses told of an earthquake and an angel who moved the stone that covered the tomb where Jesus had been buried. The tomb was revealed to be empty, ergo, there was now just a hole in the ground. That hole testifies that Jesus was who He said He was, and that He now has authority over death and hell.

Forty days after His resurrection Jesus punched another hole – this time it was a hole in the sky. In a dramatic demonstration of His authority over the laws of nature, the risen Savior physically rose through the clouds and into the heavens, with the promise to return in like manner. This is referred to as His ascension, and it stands as evidence that there is life after death. Jesus left the Mount of Olives and entered into an eternal dimension beyond our temporal world. (see Acts 1:9-11)

Jesus, as God in flesh, became our role model. He showed us how to live, die and enter eternal life. He was the first fruits of them that slept. (see I Corinthians 15:20) He then led the way to Heaven. He is The Way. The portal He made from earth to heaven is better than a gateway into time travel, space travel, or some other life-form here on earth. This hole that Jesus made insured that not even the sky is the limit for true believers. When He ascended (with the promise to return) He proved that heaven was more than a theory.

A few weeks before His crucifixion when Jesus predicted His death He also predicted His return to earth. He said, “When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left. So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:37-42 NLT)

Jesus did not foretell His return as a scare tactic for unbelievers. He meant it as a great source of hope and strength to those who believe in a whole new dimension that lies beyond our small world. No other religious leader has ever risen from the dead. No other religious leader has risen into the sky before the eyes of 500 witnesses. Jesus was, in fact, much more than a religious leader. He was the Creator, robed in flesh. He lived among us. Then He punched one hole in the ground and another in the sky! Now He bids us to follow.

That hole in the sky is supposed to give courage to His followers. St. Paul admonished first century Christians like this: “We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words.” (I Thessalonians 4:15-18 NLT)

May I en-courage you: There’s a hole in the sky! It is the portal through which believers will one day travel, as they follow Jesus to the place He has prepared for those who love Him. Can’t wait!

Resurrection Power

2007-04-07T12:26:00.000-04:00

Above the hustle and bustle of mankind, beyond humanity’s frenzied quest for knowledge, and just beyond the reach of the masses, lie the secrets to universal principles established by God Himself. A host of such principles have been revealed (and, at the same time, hidden) in scripture. One of those principles, the principle of resurrection, begs our attention as the calendar declares the approach of another Easter celebration. The first Easter was not only a dramatic validation of many Bible prophecies, but it was also the ultimate proof of God’s resurrection power.

Resurrection power is also on display a little closer to home, in the world of agriculture; every germinated seed declares the power of resurrection. Jesus referred to this principle when he said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.” (John 12:24-25)

According to the Iowa Corn Growers Association each kernel of field corn, if planted, will produce an average of 800 more kernels. If all those kernels were planted, the rate of reproduction would be as follows:

1^st harvest 800
2^nd harvest 640,000
3^rd harvest 512,000,000
4^th harvest 409,600,000,000
5^th harvest 327,680,000,000,000

Theoretically, in just five generations one kernel could produce over 327 trillion kernels of corn. If the cycle continued and each kernel was sacrificed as a seed and allowed to fall into the ground and die, the earth would soon be filled with corn. The power of the seed is remarkable!

Jesus eventually practiced what he preached about dying and about overcoming death. He was rejected by His own, unjustly railroaded, beaten, and brutally murdered. None of it was fair, legal or moral. Politicians and religious leaders used every dirty trick, and the crowds were only too quick to realign their allegiance. Jesus had every disadvantage. He was politically weak, poor, a minority in the empire, and a heretic in the eyes of many religious leaders. To further aggravate the situation He had a short period of great popularity, he helped and healed many people and he won all public debates.

But Jesus was God manifest in flesh (see I Timothy 3:16) and that trumps everything! Jesus died and was planted in the ground. His enemies relaxed. But on the third day He sprang up - victorious over death. Weeks later, on the Day of Pentecost, He sprang up in the hearts of thousands of believers. To date He has come alive in millions of hearts.

Many people still do not “get” or respect Jesus. All evidence of His divinity is conveniently ignored. He and his followers are still not often politically correct, financially powerful, or the majority. He and his followers are still often called heretical and sometimes even persecuted as He was. Many still make it their business to put to death and bury the Christian faith. But, God continues springing up in the hearts of millions of people world-wide. Those who receive Him are filled with His Spirit and empowered, like He was, “to preach the gospel to the poor…to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” (Luke 4:18-19) May His glory fill the earth!

This Easter would be a good day to join with others in a celebration of that resurrection power. Easter Sunday would be a great day to die to old attitudes and habits and let His resurrection power give you new life!

You Are Christ’s Passion

2007-03-24T11:32:00.000-04:00

More than two thousand years ago a politically, economically, and socially weak group of blue-collar believers began proclaiming that Jesus Christ had risen from the dead. Immediately those claims were challenged. Guards were bribed and proponents of the story were aggressively pursued, threatened and even massacred. Yet, in spite of Herculean efforts by the most powerful government on earth to quiet the story, it was not able to produce a body or adequately disprove the claims of Jesus’ followers. To date millions of believers have been willing to defend His story with their own lives.

One can’t help but wonder:

Why the incessant efforts to disprove the death and resurrection of Christ?
If it didn’t happen, why don’t unbelievers just ignore the whole story and treat it like they treat the legends of Paul Bunyan or the Greek gods?
How is it that a group of once-cowering disciples suddenly became willing to die for the story, and how is it that they were able to continue performing the same kinds of supernatural feats that Jesus had done?
Why does every powerful dictatorship, philosophy, or government seem to eventually attempt to disprove Jesus’ story, and why do they always fail to do so?
What has given the story of “Christ’s Passion” so much passion?

The “Passion of Christ” usually refers to the week leading up to, and including, Jesus’ crucifixion. It is a powerful, true story that reminds us of why Jesus came to earth – it was for love. He loved us. In short, “God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT)

It is because of His living passion for mankind that His story will never be quieted. His love is the most powerful force in the universe. Hence, every human being must decide what to do with this great love that God publicly demonstrated when He robed Himself in flesh and dwelt among us. (see John 1:14; Philippians 2:6-8) Some people will embrace it, some will ignore it, and others will try to shake it off by finding some way to disprove it. The fact remains that His life, death and resurrection happened.

The most powerful proof of Christ’s “Passion” is in the lives of those brave enough to embrace the life of faith. “We love him, because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) His passion becomes our passion. He convinces us deep in our hearts; down where critics, pseudo-scientists, producers, authors, politicians, and other religions cannot quench the fire of His love.

Jesus’ life, which culminated in a week of passion, displayed his passion for mankind. “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” (John 1:11-12) He offers to let His passion live in those who receive Him so He can be their source of life – everlasting life. It is an incredible offer. The story is out and no human or spiritual enterprise will ever prove it wrong.

You are the reason Christ endured the unspeakable cruelty of Calvary; He wanted a personal relationship with you. Since it is love He wants, He will not force Himself on anyone. I encourage you to embrace His love story and love Him back. YOU are Christ’s passion.

Bishop Hanson will be conducting a free seminar detailing The Passion of Christ in Thompson CT, on March 27th, at 7p.m. For directions or more information please call (888) 433–9901 or visit www.ActsII.org.