Qorbanot (Giving)
"to draw near," and indicates the primary purpose of offerings: to draw us near to G-d.
And the remnant of the meat offering shall be Aaron's and his sons': Leviticus 2:3
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Frequently the pattern of sacrifices and offerings made in the Temple at Jerusalem is used as a model for contemporary Christian giving. Recently a pastor used the passage from Leviticus 2:3 for exactly that purpose – to provide Biblical support for the practice of modern-day "giving." If we are going to use Jewish traditions as a foundation for our practices, it seems we should know something about them don’t you think? Going straight to the source, Judaism, we learn the following: 1) "We stopped offering sacrifices because we do not have a proper place to offer them. The Torah specifically commands us not to offer sacrifices wherever we feel like it; we are only permitted to offer sacrifices in the place that G-d has chosen for that purpose (Deuteronomy. 12:13-14). It would be a sin to offer sacrifices in any other place, akin to stealing candles and wine to observe Shabbat." 2) "The word "qorbanot" is usually translated as "sacrifices" or "offerings"; however, both of these terms suggest a loss of something or a giving up of something, and although that is certainly a part of the ritual, that is not at all the literal meaning of the Hebrew word. The word qorbanot comes from the root Qof-Resh-Bet, which means "to draw near," and indicates the primary purpose of offerings: to draw us near to G-d." (3) there were innumerable offerings. Chief among them were Olah: the Burnt Offering, Zebach Sh’ lamim the Peace Offering, Chatat the Sin Offering, Asham the Guilt Offering as well as Food and Drink Offerings.

Aside from the fact that in Judaism these offerings had to be made in the Temple, they were indeed used to support and sustain the Levitical priesthood (Kohein). The Tribe of Levi was not given an allotment of land, as were the other 11 tribes. This essentially left them destitute since land was the source of wealth in Israel. As compensation, they were given 48 towns and the "landed" tribes were expected to give "tithes" to the Levites for their support. Any attempt to provide a Scriptural foundation from the Old Testament practices for modern-day "giving" seems to falter. It cannot be propped up on the assertion that it stems from the people "supporting" the "clergy" in ancient Israel unless the modern-day clerics in question are Lievites. That wouldn’t do either because such "giving" was only "legal" within the Temple at Jerusalem.

Is there no basis, no reason for giving? Yes, it is found within the very word qroban or Minchah found in modern lexicons. Rather the secret of giving is at the heart of qorbanot, "to draw closer, nearer to God." Precluded from such an understanding of the gift we offer is a "reward" in any sense of the word. Certainly we do not expect a reward in stature or recognition from those around us who observe our generosity (or whom we tell.) Nor should there be any expectation of any heavenly rewards. Those who push giving from the pulpit with the cute little statement that, "you can’t take it with you, but you can send it on ahead" may be deceived by their own understanding. The suggestion is vulgar.

Someone is hurting or in need. That’s the time to give of that, which will lessen the pain and suffering. Isn’t that the lesson of the Good Samaritan? Isn’t that Jesus’ intent when He said, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. And, when we do as He directs, aren’t we drawing nearer to Him? On that day of His Crucifixion, as He was about to die, He said to his mother, Woman, behold thy son speaking of a disciple standing there. We are all "ministers." There are several translations of the word, one "Diakonos" translates as "one who executes the commands of another, esp. of a master, the servant of a king, a deacon, one who cares for the poor." Although most of these translations seem foreign to us, what better way to be "ministers of the Word" than in service to others?

Of course there is a need for us to provide for the "upkeep and maintenance" of the "facilities" we use for worship and praise. (Remember, however, for around 300 years such "facilities" were people’s homes, e.g. Acts 12:12, Romans 16:5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, Colossians 4:15 and Philemon 1:2. This is the Scriptural church.) But such provisions are a secondary consideration that should be taken care of because we have the desire and see the need for corporate worship. The Scriptural focus for our giving, however, is ministry to the needy (strangers, orphans and widows) rather than to the "temple" in which we worship.

But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

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What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two,
saith he, shall be one flesh. 1 Corinthians 6:16
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Pretty strong words Paul is using to refute what some of the Christians in Corinth seemed to believe that all things were lawful for them including prostitution – because they were saved. Commentators may rightly focus their comments on the evils of extra-marital relationships and other "lusts of the flesh" as driving a wedge between them and the Lord. However, there are just as many and as serious things which are not physical, but spiritual "harlots" that, when we believe in them we "become as one body with such harlots" clearly separating us from Him and His Word.

You’ve heard it said that money is the most mentioned topic in the New Testament. Well, in the King James Version of the Bible, it is mentioned 22 times. That’s a few times. Love is only mentioned 157 times. Is someone mistaken or intending to deceive? Pastor "R" told his congregation he knew Paul was married and that’s why his advice on marriage is so valuable. There is no Biblical foundation for such a statement. But, how would we know that unless we study the word? Incidentally, the word "tithe," or the phrases to pay tithes, receive tithes, give or take tithes, anything to do with tithes appear exactly four times in the Book of Hebrews, once in Matthew and twice in Luke. See for yourself, in none of these references are Christians told to tithe. All of these passages talk about Old Testament customs and the contemporary Jewish practices in Jesus’ day. None tell Christians to tithe. How often are we told from the pulpit about our Biblical requirement to tithe? Then the matter is further confused with the promise that, "we can’t outspend God" and by the use of Luke 6:38, Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over. We never quite finish that verse because it would reveal what Jesus is really saying. Its about "charity" not tithing.

Didn’t Jesus say He came to fulfill the Law of rather than destroy it? First, we’d have to know that Jesus made such a statement. Second we’d have to know what He meant by the "Law." Then we could know for ourselves whether those telling us about tithing, the Sabbath and the like are correct. Preachers cannot pick and choose from the Bible those passages with which they agree, that suit their purposes, and ignore those that do not. We can’t either simply because they interfere with our living the way we see fit.

Unfortunately, not only is the one who is mistaken separated from the Lord but the listener is separated as well. Paul had to contend with what has become known as "Judaizers," (Jewish converts to Christianity) who were insisting that Gentile converts had to conform to Jewish laws. They were well versed in the Law. Lamentably, they weren’t so well versed in the Gospel message Jesus proclaimed. Paul, in contrast, spent no time with Jesus during His earthly ministry, but received instruction directly from Him. (Please read Galatians 2). We aren’t like the disciples who sat at His feet and Paul who received direct revelation from Christ. However, we have the tools to learn of God’s Word – the Bible. We all have a tutor to assist us in our study – the Holy Spirit. We all are responsible as good stewards of God’s precious gifts. It is simply not enough to sit in a pew and carelessly take the word of another. Like the Judaizers Paul confronted, we will be mistaken and confuse those to whom we try to explain the Gospel.

So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Romans14:12

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A FALSE FACE

Thou shalt not bear false witness,
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Having discovered one another on “E-Harmony,” a young couple agrees on a first date. Their individual preparations for the great event were close to hysterical. He took a bath when he usually did not; brushed his teeth which he usually didn’t; combed his hair and put on clean clothes. She layered on the make up, applied appropriate padding and selected a seductively alluring dress. Needless to say each was enthralled by the other. After their date, she raved to her friends about how neat and polite he was while his friends knew him as a boorish slob. In turn, he commented to his friends how “hot” and elegant she was while actually her friends regarded her as unkempt and coarse. Date, followed date with each in its turn preceded by the same preparations on the part of both.

If all of this false image each has so carefully created eventually leads to marriage the illusions they created and maintained while dating will collapse under the pressure of being in one another’s company day and night, month after month, year after year. His true unkempt rude real character will rapidly emerge as will the one she so carefully manicured. Divorced so often ensues. First impressions may be the most important but only for short term, superficial relationships. Because they are so artificial and the emotional costs of maintaining them are so high, over a long-term and serious relationship they simply crumble.

When do we take off the façade we have so carefully crafted and let the other person really see who we are? Only when fatigue and circumstances compel us to do so. We are anxious that he/she, once they see what we really look like won’t like us. It is as if we were saying, “If they really knew what I was like they wouldn’t be interested in me.” Why would we take measures to improve our image, cover it up, if not because we think of our real selves as woefully inadequate? Someone with confident assurance does not need to pretend to be other than who they really are – they don’t need a false-face. They don’t want someone falling in love with anything other than their genuine selves.

Mustn’t we ask the same questions and expect the same results when we “water down” the Gospel so as to make it less threatening to non-believers? If we are not telling the Truth about Christianity and someone embraces what is essentially flying under a false flag, when, if ever will they learn the Truth? Isn’t it interesting that those churches who do so, to make themselves “seeker-friendly,” are really second-guessing the Master Teacher of all eternity. That is unmitigated arrogance. That is “devilish.” They are second guessing the Apostle Paul when he wrote, All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. Those who “mess” with the Bible, with Scripture, are messing with not only Paul, unless we choose to call him a liar and a false-prophet, we are really messing with God. That is foolhardy. We are putting ourselves in the position of claiming to know more than the God of the universe.

Jesus gave warning to such foolishness, He said, Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. The meaning of this passage does not paint a pretty picture for Chorazin or Bethsaida. Maybe we should take care lest we be counted likewise. The “Tyrians and Sidonians; [were a] Heathenish and idolatrous people, who lived very profligate and dissolute lives, in all intemperance, luxury, and impiety” because they had not been taught the True Word of God.

Becoming a Christian is only the beginning of our real journey on this earth, not its final destination. Coming up out of the waters of baptism, we instantly become His disciples – doers of the Word. And, our “doing” entails infinitely more than being regularly-attending-Sunday-morning-bench-warmers and bill-paying-“tithers.” Notice, Scripture teaches us, He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; Notice the purpose of His gifting, For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: That’s a long way from bench-warming tithe payers. There is something dreadfully wrong with a pastor telling his small group leaders that all they have to know/do is to turn on the TV and the VCR just as much as those who keep their “flocks” dormant and docile or those who preach “prosperity Christianity.”
 

For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven,
the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.

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GIDEON’S ROBES
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 And Gideon said unto them, I would desire a request of you, that ye would give me every man the earrings of his prey.  (For they had golden earrings, because they were Ishmaelites.) Judges 8:24

Most of us are familiar with Gideon if in no other way than those ubiquitous hotel room Bibles the Gideon’s International ministry distributes. We didn’t know until we checked that Gideon was “one of the Greater Judges of Israel. He belonged to the tribe of Manasses, and to the family of Abiezer and his father was Joas, and lived in Ephra” – probably more information about him than we want or need to know. He lived in “Israel” before the Kings and ruled over the Nation as one of the “Judges.” He “governed” during the Midianites invasion and after his victory over them, he refused to be anointed king.

Some of us may remember from Sunday school class the circumstances of his calling to lead Israel against its enemy, the difficulty he had accepting the assignment. He did not trust the Angel of the Lord. Instead, he wanted objective evidence that the calling was from God. But first, in typical fashion Gideon said to God, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? So he tested God, “show me a sign” he said – unaware how his total lack of faith in the Angel could have rendered him an instant cinder. He was finally convinced with the “sign of the fleece” – also unaware that the devil is just as capable of conjuring up answers for objective proofs. Finally, he went to war, First with an army of over 32,000 soldiers and how God “whittled down that number to 300 men so that no one in Israel, including Gideon could claim the victory. After the victory, the people wanted to make him king. Gideon, to his everlasting credit, refused the offer to rule over Israel. Instead, he asked for all the golden earrings taken as plunder from the defeated Ishmaelites. He collected around 42 pound of pure gold. With that gold and ornaments, and collars, and purple raiment that was on the kings of Midian, and beside the chains that were about their camels' necks he fashioned an ephod, a garment worn by the high priests and an important part of Tabernacle/Temple worship. He set it up in the city of Ophrah thus encouraging idolatry among the people. The Scriptures reports it this way, And Gideon made an ephod thereof, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and all Israel went thither a whoring after it: which thing became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house.

It isn’t too much of a stretch of the imagination to see the corollary between his day and modern times. Here, in the book of Judges is the story of the contemporary “church.” Historically, things start out well for those bent upon “following the Lord” only to wind up in one idolatrous form of worship or another. Generally those entering the “ministry” like Gideon, are well intentioned, sincerely bent upon saving the world (or some part thereof) through their ministry even if it is one soul at a time – even if it is one soul. They, like Gideon, probably tested their “call to ministry” with their own versions of the fleece test. Convinced of the truth of the calling, they assume the “collar,” today’s version of an ephod. The vestments of the Roman Catholic Church are an elaboration on this simple theme: A theme, not forsaken by the churches of the Reformation involving considerably more than the proverbial “clerical collar.”

NOTHING TO DO
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Romans 3:23
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Well, we’ve heard it all from outright denials of God’s very existence to His “multiple personality” and most recently of His untimely demise. No, we haven’t heard it all. There is more. God is alive and well. He is the Sovereign Lord over all. He is just simply “bored to death.” He has nothing to do. Well, virtually nothing to do. One of His most favorite tasks was listening to and answering our prayers. He just loved to look after us, to give us strength, joy and, most importantly, to give us reassurance that He loves each and every one of us and that is why He chose us to be one of His children. He wants us to know that reassurance is not and forever. That is why He loved to answer our prayers even if it meant telling us we couldn’t have what we were praying for.

Now evidently that has all but stopped. Not His desire nor His interest, but our prayers. And it isn’t that we have stopped praying but, according to one nationally known preacher, our prayers aren’t reaching God. In a recent episode of his syndicated radio program, this pastor said (in effect), “Anyone can pray, even non-Christians, but if there is still sin in your life, your prayers aren’t getting any further than the top of your head.” If that is the case, most of us will have to agree our prayers aren’t getting anywhere because we all sin every hour of every day and we certainly have fallen short of His Glory. That leaves God with nothing to do but answer the prayers of another nationally known preacher who confessed to a world wide television program that he was perfect, that he had never broken any of God’s Commandments. Of course, by implication, this radio preacher is saying he is without sin also. WoW, just when the world looked so grim a glimmer of hope – two perfect people.

What a “downer!” God only hears the prayers of two pastors. Just when we are beginning to absorb the words of an old hymn, “Just As I Am” and it begins to melt away some of the shame and guilt of our sinful lives we are told God won’t even hear the prayers of sinners. About the time we begin to feel some ray of “heavenly sunshine,” it is taken away from us. Feeling horrible for oneself is as bad as wondering what a neighbor must have thought who feels so worthless that she believes she is not even worthy to go to church. Now she finds out from this pastor that sin has shut down her “prayer line.” She, we, at least had the hope that even in our sinful conditions God would hear our prayers. Evidently not. There sits God twiddling His thumbs with little or nothing to do.

Lives are to change when we acknowledge Jesus the Christ as our Lord and Savior. Yes we are to “grow in our Christian walk.” But no where in Scripture is perfection demanded of His followers Who among us (other than these two preachers) is bold enough to stand up and proclaim we are free of sin? The world has evidently changed for the better since Jesus’ day. Remember when He came upon a bunch of Rabbis about to stone a woman to death for prostitution and when He said, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her, they all faded away. Now, we have two rabbis (preachers) one professed perfect and the other implying either he is or else his prayers are just as useless as ours. He ended his radio talk with a closing prayer.

Scripture, does say, Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; and, at a first glance this would appear to support perfection as an indication of our regeneration. At the same time, it would imply that the smallest, most trivial sin would speak strongly against such a rebirth – if this is the measure, we would have to be perfect indeed. Besides, who needs prayer more than those of us who are still deeply steeped in sin? For those of such a sinless nature as to rival that of Jesus, shouldn’t they be raptured, caught up, immediately? When Jesus said to the adulteress He save from a stoning, go and sin no more, did He really expect her never to sin again? It is one thing to have the aspiration, the goal, of sinlessness, or at least reducing its significance in our lives, it is quite another to assert we are without sin. To the saved, prayerfully, sinfulness is increasingly something “out of character for us – something we’d rather not do even though, we continue to do so in spite of ourselves. God has plenty to do. He hears and answers the prayers of His imperfect children.
 
 

Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men,
but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Matthew 23:28

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The Christ Plan
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Acts 4:13
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At long last the “church” has discovered the necessity of being purpose driven again. If we are to believe the pundits, two of Rick Warren’s books The Purpose Driven Church and The Purposed Driven Life have had a phenomenal impact on the Christian community. Well, if one is “purpose driven,” it necessarily follows there must be a plan for the purpose. All well and good as long as we remember that Biblical principles must be the purpose and Jesus the Christ author of the “plan.” Otherwise we might have a purpose, a plan and be focused on secular matters rather than Spiritual.

Church recruiting (evangelism) tactics in recent years seem to have taken such a misdirected course. The interest appears more aimed toward increasing the size of the church rather than saving individual souls. One often wonders what “seekers” will learn about The Christ Plan when all they hear is a message intentionally designed to “tickle their ears.” That’s essentially the concern the Apostle Paul had in one of his letters to Timothy. The Message makes that concern perfectly clear. It says there will come a time when churches will, “have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food - catchy opinions that tickle their fancy.” Our “purpose/plan” should not dilute the Biblical purposes that are supposed “to drive us” just to make His message appealing to the unbelieving. One of the unanticipated side effects is that a message from the pulpit, and even the curriculum for small groups composed of “junk food” and catchy phrases does nothing to help the congregation graduate from “milk” to the “meat” of the Gospel. They’ll likely remain “Gospel ignoramuses” all their lives.

We must remember that our “Rabbi” chose death rather than compromise His Father’s principles. He could have so easily catered to their misconceptions of the purpose of the Messiah. He could have denied His deity. He probably could have become enormously popular, rich and famous. Had He catered to the crowd, more directly the Sanhedrin, He could have attracted the attention of someone like Saul who might have sponsored Him at a prestigious seminary and He could have become a Rabbi of a synagogue in Judea or Israel. He could have become a High Priest! Instead, He stayed with His plan and went to the cross for us.

He did not attempt to enroll politicians in his campaign anymore than He tried to influence the political process. This was the model of separation of “church” and “state” regardless of what our “Forefathers” did or did not do. His statement to give to Cesar those things that belong to him was not commanding the disciples to make governance or political issues their focus. In fact, the inference is very strong in this passage that any such “rendering” must be done without taking away anything from worshiping, glorifying and honoring God. We are to love our neighbor, but concern for his mortal well being at the expense of his eternal soul is doing an eternal disservice to him. If the price for putting food on his table and a roof over his head is at the expense of sharing the good news of the Gospel with him, the price is too great. To have extreme and relentless concern over abortion issues may be our obsession, but it is not Christ’s plan. Here is a sample of what His plan really involves, But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. First, not as an afterthought and then everything else will be taken care of. In this regard, we should concern ourselves with government and worldly affairs only when it interferes with our sharing the Gospel that we should become involved with direct and immediate confrontation. To acquiesce to any governments persecution of Christians (including China) to say nothing about condoning such behavior is totally unacceptable under any circumstances.

Money is spoken of around 40 times and government about 5 times. Salvation is just over 43 times and redemption is around 13 times. Almost the same emphasis, but who would dispute that the latter two are central to the Gospel message? Redemption is paying the price – which Jesus paid COD (Christ On Delivery). Our salvation is the consequence of His redemptive sacrifice. Christian Heritage is Redemption In His Service Triumphant. This is the Gospel purpose that should be our driving ambition, our champion.
 

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.

The original "Christ Plan"
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Pick And Choose (What are the rules?)
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This is a fairly well known passage used by pastors to justify the clerical hierarchy in today’s official church structure. Yet, if we look again there are a few things amiss in need of explanation. Few churches today claim to have prophets (outside of the Mormons) and fewer still practice the "gifts of healings," "helps" and "diversity of tongues." "Governments" may be an exception. If this passages justifies the clergy, where does it mention "pastors," "preachers" and "ministers?" Not that picking and choosing passages to fit our particular purposes of the moment is unusual. After all, the U.S. Episcopal Church recently elected one Right Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori as its Presiding Bishop. To say nothing of a woman "pastor," elevating one to a position comparable to the Roman Catholic Pope (Bishop of Rome) is an extraordinary sidestepping Scripture. Unless we want to discount the writings of the man responsible for something like two-thirds of the New Testament, we must come to an understanding of how this is all possible. Paul plainly says women are to keep silent in church. He continues on in this verse saying it is not permitted. In the very next verse he states it is a shame for them to speak in church.

Isn’t that pretty emphatic? Doesn’t ignoring something this dramatically clearly open the door to excluding whatever it is we happen not to like or disagree with at any given time? All we need to do is to declare this is a new dispensation or (Heaven forbid) a "new age" and go on our merry way. The U.S. Episcopal Church does subscribe to the idea that the Bible contains "all things necessary to salvation; so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man," yet they are in the practice of regularly ignoring it. We must have to figure out for ourselves what is necessary and what is superfluous. It would be nice to know the rules that would tell us what to disregard and what to heed.

Clearly acting and preaching in opposition to Scripture is not restricted to the role of women in the church or sexual conduct in general as testified to by the acceptance of divorce even among the clerics. The absence of most of those things Paul said were given to the "church" for a reason is ample evidence we pick and choose. Most "churches" simply do not have "prophets" on their staff – everything else, but not prophets. Yet, such seem rather important to the scheme of things according to the Bible. We find "prophets" referred to 86 times in the Gospels. Jesus, for example, said I will send them prophets and apostles (see also Matthew 23:34). We know the Jews were in a state of apostasy and most of these references were from Malachi and before. However, there were prophets at the "church" in Antioch. Paul makes an interesting comparison between those who prophesy and those who speak in tongues saying, he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. It seems the "churches" at Antioch and Corinth were quite familiar with both the gift of tongues and prophecy. So where did they go? Are we so super sophisticated in our "spiritual maturity" over the "first century church" that we don’t need such gifts in our congregations? Maybe Jesus had the answer, when He said a prophet has no honor in His own home.

And should we be brazen enough to ask why not, there is a pat answer ready and waiting, "Well, those were in the times before Jesus went to heaven and we were blessed with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We don’t need them in today’s church." As if Jesus didn’t know this was going to happen. The condition of the "church" today doesn’t support the notion prophets aren’t needed. But what we are looking at is not the absence of prophets anymore than that of apostles. We are looking at picking and choosing what we accept from the Bible. Christ said call no man "father," yet we do. No where in New Covenant Scripture is there a reference to a distinct and separate priesthood apart from the body of believers, not withstanding special gifts, yet we have such. No where is there entreaty to establish such. Every where the infusion of the Holy Spirit into all is spoken yet we have not. Christianity is not an "I-It" or a "we-they" but a "We" relationship – a brotherhood of believers each carrying his share of the load; each concerned and responsible for the burdens of his brothers and sisters in Christ a spiritual house that shares with one another

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9
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TRUTH

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11
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Most Christians are aware of Paul’s warnings against what is known today as "Spiritual Warfare." Just as many would prefer to shy away from the matter all together and a good number deny that such a thing exists at all. But looking about the world today who can deny that what he said then is just as true today, For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places? If nothing else, can’t we agree that so many of us wrestle with addictions – alcohol/drug, food, gambling and sexual addictions ranging from pornography to pedophilia? In our own Country, isn’t corruption in government and business is rampant? And, we haven’t even touched the "crimes of violence" that are constant companions. We haven’t even mentioned anything about lies from the pulpit yet. If it is bothersome, forget the label we have attached to all of this and ask what is to be done to better the situation – unless each of us believes life couldn’t be better.

When pastors preach on the "full armor of God" they usually list each and explain to us their significance. In such an exposition by Greg Lori, something he pointed out is striking. The first thing we are to use against the "rulers of darkness" and "spiritual wickedness" is truth. The plain and simple truth is a defense against evil. If Enron investors knew the truth about the condition of that company, how much less pain would they have had to suffer? If we understood the truth about addiction, wouldn’t we be in a better position to avoid those consequences? What if we fully understood that life is a "walking shadow," "a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing," would we be more inclined to dismiss so much that seems important – less inclined to strut and fret in our "hour" on the stage? (Shakespeare) How close to Christian truth is this passage from Macbeth?

Instead of having your loins girt about with truth as the in the KJV, some other translations tell us to Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist. Whether our loins are girth about with truth" or we have the belt of truth buckled around our waist, the truth of the matter is that Paul was telling us to make the Gospel, the Scriptures, the focus of our lives – to rely upon them as a guide for living. Earlier, Jesus told us that the truth would set us free. All agree the "truth" is the Gospel, but free from what? Perhaps free from our stupidity, free from our prejudices and addictions, from our greed, free from the entangling clutches of this world, from what Paul describes as filthy lucre. The "Truth" Sure would have helped Ken Lay. As a "church member," he probably heard sermon upon sermon found in Mark 7:20 that clearly warns, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. But to be acquainted with something is not the same as understanding it. It is one thing to recite a Biblical passage, another to discern its truth, and another to apply its principles. Once can memorize the entire Bible, cover to cover, and know nothing of it. Satan quotes Scripture. But if he knew it – well, he probably wouldn’t be the devil.

The "truth" that is the "belt" of our "armor of God" is perceiving, discerning His Word and that can only come from prayerfully studying the Word. Discernment (Dokimazo) means, "to test, examine, prove, scrutinise, to recognise as genuine after examination, to approve, deem worthy." None of this, however, from the studying to the scrutinizing is sufficient without the intervention of the Holy Spirit. And it involves more that mechanically uttering a prayer as if we were hurriedly blessing the evening meal. It is difficult to find the right word; perhaps "receptivity" comes closer than prayer. Maybe we must be both receptive and prayerful in our study of His Word. Jesus calls this the Spirit of truth. And, in the same passage refers to that spirit the world cannot receive as him three times. However, if we don’t open the Book and study it He cannot/will not work with us. There is a word for the type of study required – devotions. Sound antiquated?

We know, first hand about the immorality, and addictions, the lust for power and money that surround us. Jesus warns us about false Christ’s and false prophets intent upon deceiving us. In His Word He plainly tells us how to combat them. Not with ballot or petition, demonstrations or boycotts as tempting as they are. Instead He tells us: (1) to know the truth and (2) preach the Gospel to the whole world. And, Paul added,  And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

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Saved!
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Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41

How many times have we heard claims such as, 4,000 people a day have been saved by our Television ministry or by our Crusade program or even the internet? How often have we heard someone proclaim, "this church (etc) is being used by God to bring people to Christ?" The number of those so saved is usually astronomical to justify the equally expense of such programs. Not to discredit the winning of souls by whatever means, but whatever "miracle of modern technology" is touted, there are several things they will have in common. First, the technology will focus on the preacher of the "church" that’s supporting the activity. Second, the convert is frequently alone when "the decision" is made and, finally, there is rarely follow-up. In short, what happens to these people?

There’s nothing wrong with pastors taking the lead, being in the forefront of evangelical efforts. After all, they are "shepherds of their flock." They should be in the forefront, just not alone in such endeavors. Jesus said to His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. What He did not follow up saying was, "So, I’ve got to cut this meeting short. I’m due at the TV studio." He didn’t say, "I’ve got to go. I have a flight to catch to Singapore." Instead He said, Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Was He telling them to pray for more "pastors" or for more disciples? Please remember that in short order after Jesus’ crucifixion, the disciples determined they were too important to be spending their precious time to take care of the poor. This just shortly after they had "cast lots" to determine Matthias would replace Judas. They evidently saw their roles as something special that just ordinary Christians could not fulfill.

By best accounts, the number of those who were Christian at that time was 120. Not exactly a "mega-church" even by standards of the day – remember what happened at Pentecost when 3,000 were moved by the force of Peter’s first "sermon." Now, that's was a "mega-church." This number included the twelve, the seventy (or 72) and thirty-eight (or 36) unidentified others. Yet none appeared willing or "qualified" to assume some of the responsibilities of leadership. Then, as now, the "burden of leadership" fell upon the few. We do know that all of these people had been close to Jesus during His earthly ministry - one of the qualifications for the selection of a replacement for Judas. If we "buy into" the reasoning, that evangelism and other duties and responsibilities of the "church" is left to the elect, are we exonerated when we sit on our hand and do nothing?

Those who have experience as shepherds of real sheep agree they are really stupid and in serious need of a shepherd. Is the comparison with Christian congregations 100% accurate – even if some pastors are convinced it is so? Prayerfully, our conversion to the faith is followed by study and instruction allowing us to "stand on our own two feet." To be come, not one in a flock of sheep, but a disciple of our Lord Jesus the Christ. The model established by Jesus was for the students to become teachers in an ever-increasing number until, by such a process the Gospel will be "preached" in the entire world. Yet, even in this early "church" we find such a difference in how people responded to His call. Maybe we can excuse the 38 who are not named in Scriptures. But the seventy had been selected by Jesus Himself and sent out on "missionary" journeys. Why did they seem to disappear into the tapestry?

Speaking of disappearing, why do we ordinary Christians seem to do the same disappearing act when it comes to evangelism? By the way, only the Holman Christian Standard Bible uses the word "evangelize" in just two passages. For those two, the KJV uses the phrase, "preach the Gospel" instead. Maybe that accounts for our vanishing act. Having been taught we are unqualified to "preach" and probably with no interest in such, we are inclined to leave "evangelism" to the pros. Yet, if we look at an evangelist (euaggelistes) as a "bringer of good tidings" who better to evangelize family members, loved ones, friends and neighbors, colleagues at work? Not as a formal presentation, certainly not "Bible thumping," but as a normal part of our relationship with them. Not in contrived situations, but as part of our ordinary conversations. Unless the subject of religion never comes up (HA!) When it does, shouldn’t we take the opportunity handed to us to talk to them about the "glad tidings" that have brought such joy into our lives?

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BAPTISM: A Question
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I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Matthew 3:11

Baptism could well be described as the door to Christian fellowship. Unfortunately for many it has become a stumbling block because of the controversy surrounding this divisive topic. John the Baptist had no what strife his simple acts would produce. Instead of a door, it has become a blind alley. One of the earliest and most colorful figures in this continuing dispute is found in the history of the Baptist Denomination. It was in the person of a gentleman with the unusual name of John Smyth who, in 1608 or 9 baptized himself by pouring water over his head. Imagine a Baptist baptizing himself in such a nondunking manner. John and his breakaway congregation didn’t believe their infant baptisms were valid, so they had to start all over again. Since there was no one they considered "legitimately" baptized (all being baptized as infants) he baptized himself and then the rest of the congregation.

Jesus baptized. In John 3:22 it is reported that after He had gone to Jerusalem during which visit He drove the money-changers from the temple, He baptized some of His believers while there. After His Resurrection, Jesus commanded the eleven to baptize. He said, Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: (Matthew 28:19). The verb used in the KJV for baptized in these instances is baptizo translated as "to immerse, submerge; to make overwhelmed (i.e. fully wet)" according to some interpretations. Yet others define exactly the same Greek (907) word with more latitude "to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk) to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one's self, bathe." So, accordingly, Jesus either repeatedly dipped His followers or submerged them. The distinction is of monumental importance.

Now, Paul’s trip to Ephesus recorded in Acts 19:1-6 comes onto the scene to (excuse the intended pun) muddy the waters even more. He asks the disciples he found there, Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? Nope, they hadn’t. Then, he asks, with what baptism were you baptized? Turns out, as reading the passage will show, they were baptized with "John’s baptism." Oops, more than one baptism? Whereupon Paul proceeds to baptize them with "Jesus’ baptism." What was (is) the difference? Well, the passage says, John’s was of repentance and what Paul alluded to was a baptism of the Spirit as well as repentance. It is made clear in the commentaries that these disciples were not baptized twice. John’s was not a "Christian" baptism – perhaps one a more or less traditional Jewish practice; the other deeper and more meaningful consistent with Jesus’ treatment of the Law.

Jesus, repeatedly rebuked the scribes and Pharisees for adhering to the letter of the Law while ignoring its deeper meaning (e.g. Matt 5:20, 23:23, Luke 11:39, 11:44). It is almost as if they were doing things superficially, for show, either not caring about or ignorant of its substance. Perhaps, centuries later, all that remained of Judaism and the Law was the exterior, superficial manifestations of what was once meaningful. Judaism had mutated into a meaningless religion. Not that John the Baptist had, but those who saw and heard him were blind and deaf to the deeper significance of what he did. So many had the same reaction to Jesus the Christ. Remember that He lived and died in the center of Jewish traditions and culture.

If we separated sheep from the goats based on the divisive issue of baptism, who would enter the Kingdom of Heaven? Would it be those whose form of baptism was proper or those who truly repented and who strove to make Jesus the Lord and Master of their lives? John Smyth baptized himself by pouring water from a pitcher over his head because he felt infant baptism was wrong. Was he less in God’s eyes for not jumping into the nearest river than one properly immersed by a duly appointed clergyman of the right denomination? Is it the inside of the cup and platter or the outside? Heaven help the Bedouin in the middle of the Sinai upon hearing and believing the Word over his radio repents of his sins and asks Jesus into his life who thinks sprinkling sand over his body in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost constitutes baptism. Best he get a pitcher a preacher - both. Has Christianity disintegrated into a religion? What ever happened to Jesus companion at the cross (Luke 23:43)?

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Matthew 23:27

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PERSECUTION IN AMERICA
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Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles,
and some of them they shall slay and persecute: Luke 11:49

In the King James Version of the New Testament, the word "persecute" Ekdioko occurs just twice, once in the passage quoted from Luke and again in 1 Thessalonians 2:15. However the warnings about persecution and the incidences of persecution are many. We are told of persecution and we are advised that it is to be expected. Invariably Jesus and his disciples are the objects of such scorn by groups and individuals opposed to His teachings. It involves violence toward and frequently the death those persecuted.

When we speak of persecution today, we think of the horrible instances of Christians in other lands being massacred and driven from their countries because of their faith. We don’t usually associate persecution with life in these United States and it rarely takes the form of the death and destruction we saw in Biblical times and that we see in other countries today. However, if we look carefully, Christianity is under attack in America. As one commentator put it, we have been driven out of government, we have been driven out of schools and our most sacred beliefs are under constant assault. The family has been for all intents and purposes, destroyed. We are no longer a significant influence in the daily decisions people make or what they do – we have been rendered ineffective. Evidence of that statement is no further away than the streets and sidewalks in our towns and cities. For further proof, turn on the television or go to the movies.

Usually when we think of persecution we think of violence coming from outside groups and organizations but today, for the most part, the most effective and insidious persecution comes from within the Christian community itself. The so-called "blue laws" weren’t eliminated by outside malevolent forces of evil without the consent and active participation of the majority Christian community. The same can be said for divorce, abortion, moral, ethical and criminal misconduct in business dealings and sexual promiscuity rampant/characteristic of the social order in which we live. Yet each is an egregious, outrageous assault on the Word perpetrated by the self-proclaimed majority of Christian believers in this country. As one conservative radio commentator is fond of saying (as the occasion suits him) "let the market decide." The market does decide and rest assured none of what we observe going on in this society could survive without the solid, active participation of the reported 84-85% "self-identified Christians in the American population. Without Christians at the gaming tables, Vegas would be a ghost town – holy cow! Admittedly, many of those claiming to be Christian are actually only nominally so. That, however, does not make the problem go away, it gets to the core of the matter how of they became "nominal Christians."

After His ascension, when Jesus said to His 11 disciples, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature He didn’t tell them to take care not to scare off the "seekers" or offend the non-believers they might encounter. Indeed, at another time, Jesus told the 12 to leave those who treat the Gospel with contempt and shake the dust of the place off their feet. This was "to show that they did not come to them with worldly views, with any design to amass riches and wealth to themselves" contrary to so much of what is happening in today’s pulpit. It was to serve as a testimony against them. That doesn’t sound very compromising or conciliatory. Later, Paul tells Timothy to fight the good fight of faith and not to get embroiled in worldly concerns – to gain a corruptible crown. Quite a different gospel from those who preach that, "Through faith, we can obtain anything we want -- health, wealth, success, whatever." It must be a different gospel based on what appeals to us. All of which seems to be saying "I’m Ok, You’re Ok."

Today it isn’t Christians that are being persecuted, it is Christianity itself and that by its own adherents. It has become relativistic, materialistic and "me-centered." It has to such a degree that were the lord of today’s Christianity to be tempted his response to Satan’s first temptation would be, It is written, Man shall not only live by bread alone, but by every good thing the world offers. To the second, God will heal me now – as he healed Jesus 2,000 years ago. All I have to do today is receive my healing by faith. To the third he would say It is written again that I shalt saith it, doeth it, receiveth it, and telleth it. Yet the Jesus of the Bible, the very Son of God, on the eve of His crucifixion prayed, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. What more vile persecution could be imagined than to prostitute God’s very Word?

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The Secularization of Christianity
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The thought to be site of the Holy of Holies
The Empty Room
Let no man deceive you with vain words:
for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience Ephesians 5:6
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Agreed that an empty room is not lived in? Did you know in Jesus’ day the "Holy of Holies," that inner sanctum supposedly containing the Ark of the Covenant was empty? It, the Holy of Holies was not lived in. Its honored guest, God, was among the missing. It, the Ark had been lost centuries before. Imagine that, losing the Ark of the Covenant. Rather careless wouldn’t you say? It wasn’t the Tabernacle or even the Temple(s) that was supposed to be solace to the Nation of Israel, but the Ark. That means in Herod’s "extensive reconstruction" of Zerubbabel’s Temple there was no balm, no "great physician," no healing of the wounds of the people just like in Gilead. Earlier, the Ark had been captured by the Philistine army who found it as a bad omen and had it promptly returned. After that, it was kept in the home of Abinadab where it stayed until David took it to Mount Zion – absolutely fascinating. It was in the Holy of Holies of Solomon’s Temple, but after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC by Nebuchadnezzar it was never seen again. According to the Wikipedia Encyclopedia "the second temple, and therefore Herod’s Temple, was missing the Ark of the Covenant, the Urim and Thummim, the holy oil, the sacred fire, the Ten Commandments, the pot of manna, and Aaron's rod." There was, only an "unhewn" stone in place of the Ark of the Covenant and all the rest. No one knows where it went. Amazing.

At Jesus’ crucifixion when the veil was torn down someone looking in to the Holy of Holies would have seen nothing. You may have heard accounts that only the High Priest with great trepidation was able to enter the Holy of Holies and then only once a year on the Day of Atonement. So great was his fear that he might die, the High Priest, we are told, had a rope tied to him so that should he die within his body could be dragged out. This fearful practice continued even when there was nothing in the room but that bland unhewn stone sitting there instead of the Ark. Was this a sham, a hoax perpetuated upon the people of Israel or are we to believe this solitary stone carried the same awesome power the Ark once possessed? The answer is written in the pages of history. The total and complete destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans took place in AD 70 but a mere 37 or so years after His crucifixion. Judge for yourself.

Doesn’t it seem that the religion practiced in Israel in Jesus’ day was empty, "full of sound and fury, signifying nothing?" The outward signs were there. The Temple was there, High Priest still "visited" the Holy of Holies and the Jewish people dutifully attended "services" and made their "sacrificial offerings," but nothing was there spiritually. They were as much of the subterfuge as those who perform Divine offices for love of gain by selling "sacrificial animals" and the "money changers" Jesus (as His first official duty) drove out of the Court of the Gentiles. It was all good for business, "convenient" for the worshipers and profitable to the priests. Some were playing at being religious while others were paying to be religious.

"Vain," used in the passage quoted above from Ephesians is the Greek kenos meaning in this case, "empty, vain, devoid of truth," the same as Paul said our faith would be without Jesus resurrection. It seems that Jesus encountered a vain temple being used for vain purposes by a vain priesthood and vain people. There is another passage from Paul in which he speaks of vain deceit and warns us away from "false philosophies," the "traditions of men" that opposes the Word of God, and the "rudiments of the world" such as "earthly goods, endowments riches, advantages, pleasures."

How much have things changed? If could step outside of ourselves, say from the span of looking back from 2,000 years into the future, how much would we see different in the practice of Christianity that what Jesus the Christ saw in the practice of Judaism 2,000 years ago? We don’t need a Holy of Holies room because the Holy Spirit is to dwell within each of us and collectively within our congregations. Does He? We don’t need a High Priest (teacher, father, master for that matter) because He is our High Priest. Do we still give homage and high regard those impressed with their own titles? The homage and the envying, coveting and feelings of superiority are the problem, not the authority or the teaching. From that 2,000 years in the future, will our observer note we abandoned the "rudiments of the world" or did we still cling to our "vanities?" Perhaps, instead, He will notice we have elevated such pursuits into sacred principles. Jesus seemed to know the future, For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Matthew 24:24 Say "Amen?"

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Judas daVinci
 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. Luke 22:32
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Has anything generated so much interest recently in Christian circles as the Da Vinci Code. A distant second is the recent "discovery" of the so-called "Gospel of Judas" that, even now only a few weeks after its announcement has faded from most of our memories. The Da Vinci Code has been on the New York Times Best Seller list for months. Dozens of the largest churches, from the Roman Catholics to Rick Warren’s Saddleback Church have study courses on and about the "Code." The Westminster Theological Seminary launched a web-site to respond to the book. Many prominent Christian authors have "thrown their hat into the ring" with an array of multi-media material about it. It’s the subject of Christian talk shows and endless, sometimes heated, debates. It seems to have shaken some to the very core of their faith and raised serious questions in the minds of others. "Could the story be true?"

Less ostentatious, but just as controversial is the recent discovery by a group of "scientists" from the National Geographic Society of what is purported to be The Lost Gospel of Judas written by Judas Iscariot. It is interesting that this "discovery" and the "Code" were released at about the same time and to coincide with Easter. The fictional "Code" claims Jesus married and had children. The presumably scientifically authentic "Lost Gospel" claims Jesus asked Judas to betray him. Both "fiction" and "fact" have the intent to discredit fundamental Christian beliefs. Both strike at His divinity.

Even if we concede the Society has found a manuscript and validated its antiquity, they canot demonstrate that Judas Iscariot actually wrote it. Antiquity, in itself, is not sufficient. Under a misleading heading labeled "Authentication," the Society unabashedly claims to "verify the authenticity of the Gospel of Judas documents" leading the unsuspecting to believe that the National Geographic Society substantiated, verified, the claims of this "gospel." Instead, the authentication provided can only verify the document’s antiquity, not its author – if that. In fact, at the time of its writing, Judas would have been dead. According to the National Geographic, Christ was crucified in AD 30; the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John were written between AD 65 and 95; the "gospel of Judas wasn’t written until AD 180. Like the "Code," the "Lost Gospel" is intended to discredit Jesus. There is nothing new about such attempts. In 1965 the Biblical scholar Hugh J. Schonfeild wrote The Passover Plot? It also was made into a movie. Schonfeild argued that Jesus was a savvy political extremist who planned every step he took based on what ancient Scriptures expected of the Jewish Messiah. It is of interest here simple because it has been pretty much forgotten.

Since the days when Christ was mocked and scorned, there have been attempts to discredit Him. Considering His impact on humanity, such attempts should not be surprising and in a perverse way, they are complementary. What is distressing is how easily the body of believers seems to be thrown by such clamoring. Josh McDowell argues the reason for such ease is that Christians today are taught what to believe and not why they do. If McDowell is right, pastors increasingly "preaching to the choir" as they are today, can only further our lack of preparation to "defend the faith." Bible study is good; fundamental. The need for it shouldn’t be overlooked or neglected. Detractors have been able to market their falsehoods because of our ignorance of the most basic elements of our Christian heritage. Jesus told the Sadducees, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. Can the same be said for us? Paul wrote that the citizens of Berea, unlike those in Thessalonica, searched the scriptures daily. Clearly, the people of Jesus day were admonished to read the scriptures. Actually, the Roman Catholic Church states there were fifty such "gospels." They further state:

It is indeed impossible, at the present day, to describe the precise manner in which out of the numerous works ascribed to some Apostle, or simply bearing the name of gospel only four, two of which are not ascribed to Apostles, came to be considered as sacred and canonical."

Now if it were a matter of our just sitting around with nothing to do until the day we meet our maker, this would matter little if at all. However, we are not just passive recipients of His salvation, The charge He gave to His disciples then Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost applies equally to us.  

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

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Problems: We Got Problems
And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? Luke 12:25
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The world is full of them. American seems swallowed up by them. Problems ranging from abortion-on-demand through obesity drug addition to terrorism. Throw in gay marriages and women in the priesthood just for good measure. On the world stage there is excessive poverty, self-serving governments, starvation, pandemic disease, incapacitating ignorance – a complete Pandora’s Box of problems along with "spiritual emptiness." Is that a surprise? For it is written, cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; Genesis 3:17b-19a.

It isn’t the way things were intended because Adam and Eve were to live in the Garden forever. The world is a problem that is the curse of the ground. He who is fallen rules it and to whom God said upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: Genesis 14b. None of this was to have been. Adam and Eve chose, through their disobedience, for it to be this way. Nor is it that we, their descendants, are being punished for this primeval sin but rather it is because we no longer dwell in Eden – not yet. Like our primordial ancestors we are sin. We are incapable of not sinning.

Realizing, at least the immediate consequence of their transgression, what did Adam and Eve do but attempt to solve the problem, And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons Genesis 3:7. While, we might add, hiding themselves from our Lord God Almighty. We’ve been doing both since. We still do believe in "original sin" don’t we? We still believe in the "fall," being "cast out of the Garden" don’t we? If we do, first of all, why are we so surprised by the God-less nature of this life and the corrupting influence of this world? Have we forgotten how, according to His will, all will finally be resolved?

Some pastors are so convinced that American is being swallowed up by what they consider an "anti-Christian agenda" – a conspiracy which should surprise no one. Yet, they devote huge amounts of their ministry resources to combat this one connivance. The ban on school prayer and the display of Christian artifacts on government property are seen as linch-pins of this demonic conspiracy. Abortion is regarded by some Christians as key to what they see as God’s current disfavor with America (drawing parallels with Israel’s history) and center all of their energies on striking it down – even to the point of murder. Strike this down, they believe, and all will be set right with Him. Some, look at our high levels of immorality as prima fascia evidence that the "end is near" – as it is. Yet these very same preachers, whom some unfairly, and perhaps incorrectly call "Bible thumpers" set themselves to reforming the world – through their own devices. It is interesting and no small coincidence that traditionally when one graduated from a university, the degree conferred was referred to as a "lamb skin" or, if you will, "sheepskin." Hum, when Adam and Eve were unceremoniously ushered out of Eden God had prepared coats of skins (v. 21) to cover their nakedness. Alone, they were just as incapable of changing anything as they were when clothed in the fig leaf aprons of their own construction (v. 7). What of our knowledge and understanding, can it fathom Him?

Yes, there are evil men in this world. There is pain and suffering, ignorance, grinding poverty, injustice – sin. Recognition of this isn’t any great revelation. The revelation is how to combat it. And, just as certainly, the answer does not lie in the "coats of skin" we have prepared for ourselves; our wisdom, our remedies; our answers. Yes, we are to be compassionate, kind, loving and giving to those less fortunate that ourselves, that’s the lesson of the Good Samaritan? Such is the Fruit of the Spirit by which we are to be recognized, not the Great Commission. Rather than a focus of our life’s work these are a byproduct, tools rather than goals – and not of our own doing. If, through our works we solved the entire litany of social problems (This can only be an if, because we are dealing with effects, not causes) would the world or ourselves be any better off? If we can’t through our own effort add one cubit to our stature, (Matthew 6:27) how can we by that same effort save the world? Just what is His plan for solving humanity’s problems?

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. Acts 1:8

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SCRIPTURE
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3:16
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PRACTICING WOMEN
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever Hebrews 13:8 (NKJ)
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Is it possible that one day Christianity will discover the infallible truth that women may ascend to the priestly throne just as long as they are not "practicing women" – that is to say they must be celibate. If you think not, don’t be too sure. "The Church" as we are wont to refer to the Roman Catholic Church has throughout its history thoroughly condemned homosexuality and, "lists those who behave in a homosexual fashion among those who shall not enter the Kingdom of God." "Finally," they continue, "1 Timothy 1, in full continuity with the Biblical position, singles out those who spread wrong doctrine and in verse 10 explicitly names as sinners those who engage in homosexual acts." (ref) What could possibly more emphatic, more clear, more certain?

In the face of this "certainty" it is revealed the "Church" intends to allow gay men to enter the priesthood. One source reports, "A Vatican document expected to be made public soon says the Church will allow gay men who have lived chastely for three years to be candidates for the priesthood." (ref) The article continues, The Italian weekly Panorama said in its Friday editions that Pope Benedict XVI approved the document during the summer." At the same time, the "Church" claims that, "the Church is infallible in her definitions on faith and morals." So is the. "Roman pontiff when he teaches ex cathedra, he "enjoys, by reason of the Divine assistance promised to him in blessed Peter, that infallibility with which the Divine Redeemer wished His Church to be endowed." (ref)

Thus, we are to believe that the hundreds of popes prior to Pope Benedict XVI were infallible in their condemnation of homosexuality, as is he in his endorsement of the same condition. Something does not ring true. How can the thesis and the antithesis both be the revealed word of God? Is He, God, changeable? He said, For I am the LORD, I change not Malachi 3:6a. Are we to accept, believe such an absurdity that now He has changed His mind?

The issue here is not the ordination of gay men or the more general topic of homosexuality. It isn’t even about the Roman Catholic Church. It is about vacillation. Not too many years ago, for a different kind of example, divorce was roundly condemned in Protestant and Roman Catholic circles alike. This position, has rather sound Scriptural foundations. The words of Jesus the Christ recorded in Matthew 5:32, Matthew 19:6, Matthew 19:9, Mark 10:9 Luke 16:18 and reinforced by Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, seem to be self-evident – divorce is not acceptable to Him. It is interesting that the Greek words, and related words, used in many of these passages are ekporneuo, porneia, and porneuo that refer to fornication, not just divorce (see ref.). There are actually 33 such references condemning such behavior throughout the King James Version. Matthew 15:19 lists evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies in one group indicating they are all sins. By the way, the "spokesperson" in this instance is Jesus the Christ.

But, today with increasingly large percentages of divorced people making up congregations as well as within the ranks of the "priesthood," we evidently feel Jesus didn’t mean what He said or that He has changed His mind once more. "Christian" counselors are telling couples who have been married previously how to make their second, third, fourth marriage(s) a success. Such doctrinal flip-flopping is often defended in the name of "compassion" and "reaching out" but as likely is the "fear" of driving away those practicing (fill-in-the-blank) and, consequently emptying the pews on Sunday morning. Following such a trend, should it be shown that increasing numbers of the public are pedophiles, one would expect the pulpit soon to be less strident on that subject. Perhaps there will even an eventual doctrinal shift allowing those who have not practiced child molestation for a designated period of time to become candidates for the priesthood. All in the name of "forgiveness." Yet, we take a few passages from Paul’s letters about the place of women in the "church" as cast in stone. Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak he writes in 1 Corinthians 14:34. Then, in 1 Corinthians 11:36, he also writes that if a woman shows up in "church" with her head uncovered she is to be shaved bald. That’s ignored. Who knows, maybe one day there will be a Papal Bull pronouncing women fit for the pulpit and that they may come to church without their heads being covered. Doesn’t it seem odd that gay men can be ministers/priests and women cant? Surely, this is "Cafeteria Christianity" at its best.

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