The Bible does deal with evolution, in fact, the bible is in direct contradiction with it. The first problem with it is, that when people are given the choice between science and the Bible, they think, “oh, well, the Bible doesn't talk about science, and science is always true, right? You can see science.” But that is the problem. Then when they listen to scientific experts that endorse evolution and the theory that Earth is billions of years old, they adopt that as their foundation for knowledge of the world. Therefore when they see something like rock layers they automatically assume that those rock layers were formed over long periods of time. You see, we must found everything we believe on an absolute point of reference, so when we base anything on this absolute, it will be true. John 17:17: Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. The evolutionists have no absolute point of reference, so they have built their house on the shifting sands. Since there is only one absolute point of reference, the Bible, let us go to it in search of something that refers to how old the Earth is. Genesis 1:3-5: 3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. 4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. 5And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day. Most “evolutionary Christians” will try to make the evenings and mornings of the Creation period millions of years long, but that is totally out of context. Whenever the Bible refers to a “day” or “evening” or “morning” they mean a literal consecutive day, evening, or morning. Also, evolution appears to be in contradiction with several scientific laws, such as the laws of thermodynamics and such. Although there are several examples of the contradiction of science and evolution that has been argued, disproved, and proved by several people and in several books, evolutionists will not listen to that. Because of their pride and constant denial of creation, very few non-Creation-believers will be swayed by evidence. Instead you need to argue with their presuppositions. A presupposition is the underlying foundation and origin point of the person's ideas or concepts. For example, when someone claims that evolution is true, their presupposition is that evolution is a fact, and not theory, all evidence supports it, all rational people believe in it, and it is the best explanation of the beginning of the universe. But then you need to point out that evolution contradicts itself, evolution is only put forth by a few scientists, and none of these theory's stand up to rigorous pressure. Creation has evidence, while evolution has only dogmatic faith. If they have trouble believing what you say, you can switch from presuppositionalism to evidentialism. One of my favorite books on evidentialism, if that is a word, is Evidence that Demands a Verdict, and More Evidence that Demands a Verdict, both by Josh McDowell. It takes into detail the historical accuracy of the Bible. I hope this has clarified what you need clarified! Remember to start with the only absolute, when you make an argument, adhere to the Good News, and have a good day.
-The Adherent
Monday, December 15, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Historical favorites of mine
Recently I have had to write some papers on some historical figures, so I picked John Calvin and John Paul Jones. These people both had substantial influence on the founding of America, and I would like to share my papers on them with you. Enjoy!
John Calvin
1509 - 1564
When Jean Cauvin was ten, he moved into the house of a nobleman to study alongside his sons. At the age of eleven he moved to Paris to receive his education from the College de la Marche, and eventually transferred to various colleges, studying mostly the arts and law until the age of twenty-two. John did not grow up a Protestant, but when a friend became a Lutheran he knew he had to face the new ideas squarely. As John studied the Bible he saw that all his life he had been in error, and passages that he had memorized years ago were now full of meaning. Calvin was almost arrested and fled to his friend's house where he started writing a defense of the Protestant Christian faith. He called the book The Institutes of the Christian Religion.
When The Institutes of the Christian Religion was published, it was so popular among Christians, especially Lutherans and Protestants, that by popularity it spread to Scotland, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland, Scandinavia, and eventually the Americas. Dutch Calvinist settlers were also the first successful European colonizers of South Africa.
When the pilgrims and colonists, including the Puritans and French Huguenot and Dutch settlers came to America, the vast majority of them had a Calvinist upbringing and brought with them to America Calvin's writings. No one came empty minded, and as Calvinists they believed in the rule of God over all things including the depravity of humans, biblical law, and limited government. So when they created a government, they created it according to those beliefs.
In addition to the colonists and founding fathers of America, John Calvin inspired people like John Knox, a Scottish reformer, Huldrych Zwingli, Franciscus Gomarus, and even many later figures such as Jonathan Edwards and John Bunyan. Most of his influence came from the writings of his books, his contributions to confessional documents for use in churches, and his massive out-pouring of commentary on the Bible (He wrote a commentary on every book of the Bible except 2 John, 3 John, Revelation, and some Old Testament books). He wanted to present the plain meaning of the text before his readers. But through the academy he founded, many teachers, evangelists, theologians, and preachers have continued the work he began, reforming church denominations and peoples. Calvin's successor, Theodore Beza, said that Calvin was a "Christian Hercules who subdued so many monsters with the mightiest club of all - the Word of God".
John Paul Jones
1747 - 1792
John Paul, named the father of the American navy, was born to John Paul Sr. on the southern coast of Scotland. At age thirteen he had started his career in sailing, and at age twenty-one he was a captain. Later, being charged with "unnecessarily cruel" behavior, he left Scotland and after changing his name to John Paul Jones he joined the American navy to fight against England. At that time the Americans had virtually no navy, and their coasts were unprotected. So thankfully John Paul came and gave his advice on what kind of ships and men were needed. He also showed them that they could not win the nautical battles against the British on they're own, only three nations had the naval ability to do that. So at his suggestion, they began the construction of thirteen ships, and sent him to France for more help.
Jones was the first man to be assigned to the rank of 1st Lieutenant in the Continental Navy, and took the honor of hoisting, and saluting to, the first U.S. ensign over a naval vessel. After defeating a ship called the Drake and sailing to France, Jones took command of a half-rotten ship called the Bon Homme Richard given to him by the French. On his way back to America, he came into contact with the HMS Serapis, A larger, much stronger ship. After a four hour battle, an Indian called Red Jerry managed to throw a grenade right in between the two decks with all the cannons and cannonballs, igniting and causing a chain reaction! The British finally surrendered, and because of this victory the British were so afraid of the Americans (John Paul in particular) that there was an increasing demand on the British Parliament to declare peace with America.
In 1787 Jones was decorated by the king of France and received the title “Chevalier” along with a gold medal and a sword. While in Britain, on the other hand, he was branded as a pirate.
John Calvin
1509 - 1564
When Jean Cauvin was ten, he moved into the house of a nobleman to study alongside his sons. At the age of eleven he moved to Paris to receive his education from the College de la Marche, and eventually transferred to various colleges, studying mostly the arts and law until the age of twenty-two. John did not grow up a Protestant, but when a friend became a Lutheran he knew he had to face the new ideas squarely. As John studied the Bible he saw that all his life he had been in error, and passages that he had memorized years ago were now full of meaning. Calvin was almost arrested and fled to his friend's house where he started writing a defense of the Protestant Christian faith. He called the book The Institutes of the Christian Religion.
When The Institutes of the Christian Religion was published, it was so popular among Christians, especially Lutherans and Protestants, that by popularity it spread to Scotland, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland, Scandinavia, and eventually the Americas. Dutch Calvinist settlers were also the first successful European colonizers of South Africa.
When the pilgrims and colonists, including the Puritans and French Huguenot and Dutch settlers came to America, the vast majority of them had a Calvinist upbringing and brought with them to America Calvin's writings. No one came empty minded, and as Calvinists they believed in the rule of God over all things including the depravity of humans, biblical law, and limited government. So when they created a government, they created it according to those beliefs.
In addition to the colonists and founding fathers of America, John Calvin inspired people like John Knox, a Scottish reformer, Huldrych Zwingli, Franciscus Gomarus, and even many later figures such as Jonathan Edwards and John Bunyan. Most of his influence came from the writings of his books, his contributions to confessional documents for use in churches, and his massive out-pouring of commentary on the Bible (He wrote a commentary on every book of the Bible except 2 John, 3 John, Revelation, and some Old Testament books). He wanted to present the plain meaning of the text before his readers. But through the academy he founded, many teachers, evangelists, theologians, and preachers have continued the work he began, reforming church denominations and peoples. Calvin's successor, Theodore Beza, said that Calvin was a "Christian Hercules who subdued so many monsters with the mightiest club of all - the Word of God".
John Paul Jones
1747 - 1792
John Paul, named the father of the American navy, was born to John Paul Sr. on the southern coast of Scotland. At age thirteen he had started his career in sailing, and at age twenty-one he was a captain. Later, being charged with "unnecessarily cruel" behavior, he left Scotland and after changing his name to John Paul Jones he joined the American navy to fight against England. At that time the Americans had virtually no navy, and their coasts were unprotected. So thankfully John Paul came and gave his advice on what kind of ships and men were needed. He also showed them that they could not win the nautical battles against the British on they're own, only three nations had the naval ability to do that. So at his suggestion, they began the construction of thirteen ships, and sent him to France for more help.
Jones was the first man to be assigned to the rank of 1st Lieutenant in the Continental Navy, and took the honor of hoisting, and saluting to, the first U.S. ensign over a naval vessel. After defeating a ship called the Drake and sailing to France, Jones took command of a half-rotten ship called the Bon Homme Richard given to him by the French. On his way back to America, he came into contact with the HMS Serapis, A larger, much stronger ship. After a four hour battle, an Indian called Red Jerry managed to throw a grenade right in between the two decks with all the cannons and cannonballs, igniting and causing a chain reaction! The British finally surrendered, and because of this victory the British were so afraid of the Americans (John Paul in particular) that there was an increasing demand on the British Parliament to declare peace with America.
In 1787 Jones was decorated by the king of France and received the title “Chevalier” along with a gold medal and a sword. While in Britain, on the other hand, he was branded as a pirate.
What do you think?
Have a good day!
The Adherent
Thursday, November 13, 2008
God's Laws
Hey kids!
Today I would like to bring to your attention a topic I have interest in, God's Moral Laws and how they affect all of life. My main point is that Scripture is applicable to both our inward and outward beings. (Luke 10:26-28) Since this is so, when we read a commandment, we must consider how we can "adhere" to this passage in every way possible. Take for example one of the ten commandments. Exodus 20:4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. (Emphasis added) you can also Check out Deuteronomy 10:11-13. Another point that is equally important is the fact that God's Moral Laws are also in affect at all times and no one is exempt at any point in time. God's laws are perfect and excellent beyond improvement. Now I am giving you an assignment: Go read 1 Thessalonians 5.
If you would like to become a part of "The Adhering team" you are welcome to! (We could use some more writers!)
Today I would like to bring to your attention a topic I have interest in, God's Moral Laws and how they affect all of life. My main point is that Scripture is applicable to both our inward and outward beings. (Luke 10:26-28) Since this is so, when we read a commandment, we must consider how we can "adhere" to this passage in every way possible. Take for example one of the ten commandments. Exodus 20:4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. (Emphasis added) you can also Check out Deuteronomy 10:11-13. Another point that is equally important is the fact that God's Moral Laws are also in affect at all times and no one is exempt at any point in time. God's laws are perfect and excellent beyond improvement. Now I am giving you an assignment: Go read 1 Thessalonians 5.
If you would like to become a part of "The Adhering team" you are welcome to! (We could use some more writers!)
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Adventures of Bob Episode 13
The following is part of an action packed series called “The Adventures of Bob” That I wrote about five years ago. Enjoy!
Location: Restaurant Date: August Third
“Oh Bob, it is so nice of you to bring me to this restaurant for our anniversary!” Said Bob's wife as a waiter gave them their food. Bob, breaking open his fortune cookie, read aloud: “Beware waiter with fortune cookies! I wonder what that means?” Bob looked at the waiter, the waiter looked back, the waiter moved first lunging towards Bob's Throat.
*Intermission*
Continued:
Bob moved fast but not fast enough. The so called “waiter” managed to slip his fingers around Bob's neck. Bob struggled, gasping for air when suddenly there was a CRACK! The attacker slumped to the floor, behind him stood his wife, holding a frying pan. We had better go, said Bob looking at three men who were staring at the waiter. Half a minute later they were on they're way home in the car when something started beeping. “Cell phone?” Asked Bob “No! It's at home!” replied his wife. “Mine too!” said Bob, getting frantic. They looked at each other both thinking the same thought, BOMB!!!!!!!!!
To be continued................
The Four D's
There are four steps in completing an action: (1) desire, (2) decision, (3) determination, and (4) discipline. For example, think of a person who desires to meet with God before going to work. He knows that in order to have enough time to do so, he must get up early, so he makes the decision to get up at 6:30. The next day he oversleeps because his desire and decision alone could not complete the action. He then determines to use an alarm clock to get him up. But the real test comes when the alarm goes off. He must have the discipline to get up and not go back to sleep.
Most of us have trouble with the discipline part. As do do I. But if we work hard we can overcome our laziness, and form good habits. Matthew 20:6-7 (KJV)
And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? [7] They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.
You see in this case the idle men would not work because no one had come to them (or maybe no one would hire them because they were lazy) but Jesus told them to just go to work and stop being a couch potato, and the rest would fall into place.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Scripture Memorization
I mentioned earlier the usefulness of scripture memorization and I would now like to to give you some example of how you can do that. But first why should we memorize? Joshua 1:8 says:
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. (ESV) and likewise 1 Tim. 4:13 says: Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. (KJV) These verses are pretty clear about why and when you should memorize! You can also read Psalm 119:11; Proverbs 2:1-5; Proverbs 3:1-2; Isaiah 55:11; and 2 Tim. 3:15. If you hide the Word in you heart, whenever you are approached by someone you will be able to give them an answer from the scriptures. But some of the ways we can go about this are:
By use of the topical Memory System (TMS). This is excellent for beginners, or people who don't know where to start. This method requires a verse pack to hold all your verses, and the verses themselves which are printed on cards about one and a half inches by two inches. The first five verses in are: Assurance of salvation 1 John 5:11-12, assurance of prayer John 16:24, assurance of victory 1 Corinthians 10:13, assurance of forgiveness 1 John 1:9 and assurance of guidance Proverbs 3:5-6. You will carry your verse pack wherever you go so you can memorize wherever you are.
By memorizing whole books of the Bible. This method can be better because of unlike the TMS, it takes nothing out of context. By memorizing the surrounding verses, you will not misunderstand or misuse single verses. When I first started doing this, every word was etched into my mind by memorization, and it opened my eyes! Even if only a little bit. I would also recommend that you start with a smaller book, such as first John, then go to second John, and then third John doing about two verses a day. I believe that this method is an excellent way to adhere to the Gospel.
Another thing you can do is go through the bible book by book and copy the bible in whole or in part into one of your notebooks.
If you would like to talk to me about this or if you would like an accountability partner, my email address is TheAdherent@gmail.com
Thank you!
The Adherent
Monday, October 13, 2008
Why the Adherent?
Some of you might be wondering why I chose the name "The Adherent" for my blog, a somewhat odd word. But the main reason I chose the name is because the chief purpose of man is to Glorify God and to enjoy Him forever (Westminster catechism Q. #1). And how do we know how to do that? Q. 2. What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him? A. The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him. So we must study God's word, the Holy Bible. Q. 3. What do the Scriptures principally teach? A. The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man. Therefore we must use it for our foundation, the starting point for all our debates. We use it to decide our major decisions, ALL our decisions! We adhere to God, and to His every word.
When I was searching for a name for this blog, I looked up “follow” in the dictionary. I came up with words like accompany, imitate, copy, etc. but my favorites were: pursue, adhere, and consequential. When deciding between these names, I looked them up, and the definition of adhere is:
Adhere v. i.
1.
To stick to, as glutinous substances, or by natural growth
2.
To be joined, or held in contact; to cleave to.
3.
Figuratively, to hold to, be attached, or remain fixed, either by personal union or conformity of faith, principle, or opinion.
Adherent n.
1.
The person who adheres; one who follows a leader, part or profession; a follower, or partisan; a believer in a particular faith or church.
So what happens is, you pursue to adhere, then you are consequential. Now, since no one is perfect, no one can be totally adherent, but this blog is dedicated to the pursuit of adherence, Adherence to the only absolute point of reference. So my friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, I want you to adhere. To glue yourself to the bible. One great way to do this is scripture memorization. And speaking of scripture, my blog verse is Mark 8:34:
"And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." (KJV)
This verse contains the word follow, which is essentially adherence. (Take up his cross and adhere to me.)
Thank you for reading,
The Adherent
TheAdherent@gmail.com
When I was searching for a name for this blog, I looked up “follow” in the dictionary. I came up with words like accompany, imitate, copy, etc. but my favorites were: pursue, adhere, and consequential. When deciding between these names, I looked them up, and the definition of adhere is:
Adhere v. i.
1.
To stick to, as glutinous substances, or by natural growth
2.
To be joined, or held in contact; to cleave to.
3.
Figuratively, to hold to, be attached, or remain fixed, either by personal union or conformity of faith, principle, or opinion.
Adherent n.
1.
The person who adheres; one who follows a leader, part or profession; a follower, or partisan; a believer in a particular faith or church.
So what happens is, you pursue to adhere, then you are consequential. Now, since no one is perfect, no one can be totally adherent, but this blog is dedicated to the pursuit of adherence, Adherence to the only absolute point of reference. So my friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, I want you to adhere. To glue yourself to the bible. One great way to do this is scripture memorization. And speaking of scripture, my blog verse is Mark 8:34:
"And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." (KJV)
This verse contains the word follow, which is essentially adherence. (Take up his cross and adhere to me.)
Thank you for reading,
The Adherent
TheAdherent@gmail.com
What is corn syrup? - A lesson in health
Corn syrup is 55% Fructose and 45% Glucose. This imbalance is not that healthy. For example, Sucrose (table sugar) contains fifty percent fructose however it's fructose is bound to glucose. In high fructose corn syrup, the fructose is unattached from the other forty-five percent of its composition. Having "free" fructose alters the hearts use of important minerals.
Now the most noticeable effects of high fructose corn syrup include problems with the liver disease, heart failure, minerals, osteoporosis, micronutrients, accelerated aging, and copper deficiency. And since high fructose corn syrup changes the balance of nutrients, it also can lead problems with vitamin and mineral deficiency. One of the organs that is most affected by high fructose corn syrup is the liver, and researchers have found that high fructose has the same effect on the liver as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
As fructose is absorbed by the second part of the small intestine, the jejunum, the liver has the task of converting the fructose to triglycerides which is easier than converting glucose into triglycerides. Elevated levels of triglycerides lead to an increased risk of heart disease.
Heart disease is when something obstructs the heart from functioning properly. Damage to the heart can develop from obstructions in the coronary arteries or from a dysfunctional heart. High fructose corn syrup promotes heart disease. In addition, high fructose corn syrup causing an increase in triglycerides also causes a decrease in essential minerals. High fructose corn syrup creates a cascade effect; by altering the intake of magnesium consumers of HFCS are put at risk of another dangerous disease.
"Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break" (National Osteoporosis Foundation). Altered magnesium levels speeds up bone loss that occurs naturally with aging. Calcium helps maintain bone, so when calcium is not as readily available and magnesium levels are not balanced, the risk of osteoporosis rises dramatically. Osteoporosis most commonly affects the bones in the hip, wrist, and spine. If not prevented osteoporosis triggers bone fragility to the point of bone fracture; this can cause permanent damage, deformity or death. Fractures in the spine are especially harmful and result in a loss of height, severe back pain, and deformity.
Hopefully this helpful. By the way, you can now reach me at TheAdherent@gmail.com
Thank you for reading,
The Adherent Team (The Adhering Team)
Now the most noticeable effects of high fructose corn syrup include problems with the liver disease, heart failure, minerals, osteoporosis, micronutrients, accelerated aging, and copper deficiency. And since high fructose corn syrup changes the balance of nutrients, it also can lead problems with vitamin and mineral deficiency. One of the organs that is most affected by high fructose corn syrup is the liver, and researchers have found that high fructose has the same effect on the liver as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
As fructose is absorbed by the second part of the small intestine, the jejunum, the liver has the task of converting the fructose to triglycerides which is easier than converting glucose into triglycerides. Elevated levels of triglycerides lead to an increased risk of heart disease.
Heart disease is when something obstructs the heart from functioning properly. Damage to the heart can develop from obstructions in the coronary arteries or from a dysfunctional heart. High fructose corn syrup promotes heart disease. In addition, high fructose corn syrup causing an increase in triglycerides also causes a decrease in essential minerals. High fructose corn syrup creates a cascade effect; by altering the intake of magnesium consumers of HFCS are put at risk of another dangerous disease.
"Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break" (National Osteoporosis Foundation). Altered magnesium levels speeds up bone loss that occurs naturally with aging. Calcium helps maintain bone, so when calcium is not as readily available and magnesium levels are not balanced, the risk of osteoporosis rises dramatically. Osteoporosis most commonly affects the bones in the hip, wrist, and spine. If not prevented osteoporosis triggers bone fragility to the point of bone fracture; this can cause permanent damage, deformity or death. Fractures in the spine are especially harmful and result in a loss of height, severe back pain, and deformity.
Hopefully this helpful. By the way, you can now reach me at TheAdherent@gmail.com
Thank you for reading,
The Adherent Team (The Adhering Team)
Monday, September 8, 2008
kT – A Lesson in Nanotechnology
Robert Brown first observed “Brownian motion” in June 1827, while looking at some pollen grains – tiny particles that appeared as one five-thousandths of an inch across – when viewed through a microscope. Brown was examining pollen grains of Clarkia pulchella, when something radically new appeared before him in the microscope. “While examining the form of these particles immersed in water, I observed many of them very evidently in motion... these motions were such as to satisfy me, after frequently repeated observation, that they arose neither from currents in the fluid, nor from its gradual evaporation, but belonged to the particle itself.”
Brown's observations were hardly inexplicable: water after all was teeming with living organisms that could be seen only through a microscope. Pollen grains were living things too, why shouldn't they be moving around? Just to make sure that he was seeing some microscopic sign of life, Brown drenched the grains of pollen in alcohol, dried them out, scattered them in water, and put them again under the lens. Whereupon he saw that the things were still moving. This he reports was a “very unexpected fact.” so he decided to try other various pulverized objects sprinkled in water – and found that they all managed to move somehow.
This indeed was a mystery. If only he could figure out the source of the motion. But he couldn't. Here was an observation, but no theory to account for it. Later, in 1908, Jean Perrin used a newly invented instrument called the slit ultramicroscope which could make even the tiniest particles visible (although not the atoms themselves). Perrin applied Gamboge particles to water, and he he saw the same sight that Robert Brown had seen, except that now Perrin could resolve the individual moving particles and photograph them one by one. Using this microscope, Perrin was able to confirm one of Einstein's theory's and prove that atoms existed. But even after atoms were proven to exist, they were still invisible. Many people lamented, “Why must our bodies be so large compared to the atom? Is there an intrinsic reason for it?” The answer is yes. You see, atoms experience about 1,000,000,000,000,000 or 1015 collisions per second.
So you can see that God created us this size so that we would be oblivious to the chaos that lives below, because if our bodies were sensitive enough to feel atoms, or even a few atoms, we would be battered senseless! And although this puts a wide gap between us and atoms, the gap has been closed by high-powered microscopes and such. So, kT is k= a constant (Boltzmann's constant) and T= temperature in degrees kelvin. Thus, heat equals energy. Here we can see the wonderful design of our creator, who has made everything according to His purpose, and where disorder on the nanoscale turns out to be what visible objects are made of!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
A Quote
I found this quote inside a book called The Fight with Rome.
"To men and women who are ready to dare for God's truth, and to do righteousness, that Christ may be glorified, whether protestants or romanists, may be delivered from the thralldom of a crushing despotism, this book is dedicated by the author."
Justin D. Fulton
Thrall
A. One, such as a slave or serf, who is held in bondage.
B. One who is intellectually or morally enslaved.
Despotism
1. The rule of a despot; the exercise of absolute authority.
2. Absolute power or control; tyranny.
3. An absolute or autocratic government.
4. A country ruled by a despot.
Despot
1. A king or other ruler with absolute, unlimited power; autocrat.
2. Any tyrant or oppressor.
This quote is very dramatic, but true!
"To men and women who are ready to dare for God's truth, and to do righteousness, that Christ may be glorified, whether protestants or romanists, may be delivered from the thralldom of a crushing despotism, this book is dedicated by the author."
Justin D. Fulton
Thrall
A. One, such as a slave or serf, who is held in bondage.
B. One who is intellectually or morally enslaved.
Despotism
1. The rule of a despot; the exercise of absolute authority.
2. Absolute power or control; tyranny.
3. An absolute or autocratic government.
4. A country ruled by a despot.
Despot
1. A king or other ruler with absolute, unlimited power; autocrat.
2. Any tyrant or oppressor.
This quote is very dramatic, but true!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Evangelism: Seven Principles
Witnessing is not spouting out verses to a non-believer, it involves everything that we are and therefore do. So the question is not will we witness, but how will we witness?
Let’s look at a few principles for witnessing.
1 Be in contact with non-believers. We hold evangelistic meetings with no non-Christians present, but to catch fish you must go where the fish are. (Luke 5:27-32)
2 Establish a common interest as a bridge of communication. There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” We Christians tend to skip the non-essentials and get right to the point, anything that calls for much preliminary preparation. Our Lord didn’t approach her that way. Here he starts by referring to something in which she is obviously interested in. (she’d come to draw water) gradually he directed the conversation from a known interest to an unknown spiritual reality. As instruments of God’s hands we must work positively and patiently.
3 Arouse interest. As we read in John 4 we can see our Lord arousing the woman’s interest and curiosity through two means: The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you ‘Give me a drink’, you would have asked him, and he would gave given you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that water? Are you greater than Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?” Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.”
It is fascinating to see this woman’s curiosity kindled and beginning to burn as our Lord draws her along. First, he came where she was. Second, He showed an interest in her concerns. Now he is using his actions and words to arouse a positive response to Himself and His message of truth.
4 Don’t go too far Just give a person as much as he is ready for.
5 Don’t condemn. If someone asks you if you want a cigarette and you say, “No thanks, I’m a Christian.” You are both condemning him (one step backward) and saying, “Christians compromise fun to be oddballs” (another step backward) besides many Christians smoke and drink, and they are no less Christians. And if you are at a party and you are offered a beer, you shouldn’t feel bad about refusing, and if you invite someone who smokes to your room in the dorm or your home, you must have the courtesy to put an ash tray out to put him at ease. We don’t thereby endorse smoking, but give the respect he deserves. We also need to learn the art of legitimate compliment. In Taking Men Alive Charles Trumbull tells the story of a man who gets in his car and offers him a swallow from his flask. Mr. Trumbull said, ”No thank you. But I can see that you are a very generous man.” The man’s eyes lit up and that day came to the Savior.
6 Stick with the main issue.
7 Confront him directly. The people to whom we witness will fall into two categories initially. The first group lacks the necessary information to about Jesus Christ. Even if they wanted to, they couldn’t become Christians. With them, we must be alert to all misunderstandings, fill the gaps in their knowledge, and seize every opportunity to explain more of the necessary facts. Those in the second group already know most of the scripture, and haven’t acted on that information yet. Our repeated cramming of the same verses will just alienate them more. With them we must be very patient, pray earnestly, and love him into the kingdom of God.
These, then are our seven principles--see and know non-Christians personally; establish a mutual interest in conversation; arouse a persons interest by life and word; gear explanations to his receptiveness and readiness for more; accept and even compliment rather then condemn; stay on track; and persevere to the destination.
Let’s look at a few principles for witnessing.
1 Be in contact with non-believers. We hold evangelistic meetings with no non-Christians present, but to catch fish you must go where the fish are. (Luke 5:27-32)
2 Establish a common interest as a bridge of communication. There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” We Christians tend to skip the non-essentials and get right to the point, anything that calls for much preliminary preparation. Our Lord didn’t approach her that way. Here he starts by referring to something in which she is obviously interested in. (she’d come to draw water) gradually he directed the conversation from a known interest to an unknown spiritual reality. As instruments of God’s hands we must work positively and patiently.
3 Arouse interest. As we read in John 4 we can see our Lord arousing the woman’s interest and curiosity through two means: The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you ‘Give me a drink’, you would have asked him, and he would gave given you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that water? Are you greater than Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?” Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.”
It is fascinating to see this woman’s curiosity kindled and beginning to burn as our Lord draws her along. First, he came where she was. Second, He showed an interest in her concerns. Now he is using his actions and words to arouse a positive response to Himself and His message of truth.
4 Don’t go too far Just give a person as much as he is ready for.
5 Don’t condemn. If someone asks you if you want a cigarette and you say, “No thanks, I’m a Christian.” You are both condemning him (one step backward) and saying, “Christians compromise fun to be oddballs” (another step backward) besides many Christians smoke and drink, and they are no less Christians. And if you are at a party and you are offered a beer, you shouldn’t feel bad about refusing, and if you invite someone who smokes to your room in the dorm or your home, you must have the courtesy to put an ash tray out to put him at ease. We don’t thereby endorse smoking, but give the respect he deserves. We also need to learn the art of legitimate compliment. In Taking Men Alive Charles Trumbull tells the story of a man who gets in his car and offers him a swallow from his flask. Mr. Trumbull said, ”No thank you. But I can see that you are a very generous man.” The man’s eyes lit up and that day came to the Savior.
6 Stick with the main issue.
7 Confront him directly. The people to whom we witness will fall into two categories initially. The first group lacks the necessary information to about Jesus Christ. Even if they wanted to, they couldn’t become Christians. With them, we must be alert to all misunderstandings, fill the gaps in their knowledge, and seize every opportunity to explain more of the necessary facts. Those in the second group already know most of the scripture, and haven’t acted on that information yet. Our repeated cramming of the same verses will just alienate them more. With them we must be very patient, pray earnestly, and love him into the kingdom of God.
These, then are our seven principles--see and know non-Christians personally; establish a mutual interest in conversation; arouse a persons interest by life and word; gear explanations to his receptiveness and readiness for more; accept and even compliment rather then condemn; stay on track; and persevere to the destination.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Pride
Pride is something we will all struggle with from time to time. Chances are, you have it, but first, let's look at the definition of pride: 1. inordinate self-esteem; an unreasonable conceit of one's own superiority in talents, beauty, wealth, accomplishments, rank, or elevation in office, which manifests itself in lofty airs, distance, reserve, and often in contempt of others. To value one's self; to gratify self-esteem. (American Dictionary of the English Language) As the dictionary said, pride can lead to very selfish and possibly mean things! (Not something to be desired) Now although most of you do not think that you go so far as to distance yourself, or put on airs, most of you will remember some time when you thought of yourself as better than someone else. But whether you know you have pride or not, how do you deal with pride? First of all, humble service. You could go out and mow somebody's lawn for them, do you siblings chore for them, lots of things! But do them for god, and not for yourself, or for glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31) Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Proverbs 29:23 (KJV)
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
Obadiah 1:3 (KJV)
The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee,
1 John 2:16 (KJV)
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Proverbs 29:23 (KJV)
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
Obadiah 1:3 (KJV)
The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee,
1 John 2:16 (KJV)
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Do Hard Things
A few days ago, I read Alex and Brett Harris's book, "Do Hard Things" this book inspired me greatly, motivated me to want to do something with myself, and made me want to manage a campaign! in this book, Alex and Brett give examples of problems most teenagers will deal with, "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man;" (1 Corinthians 10:13) and address them in a way that the common teenager can understand. "but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." (1 Corinthians 10:13b) So, from now on, I will be reading a lot more books, and hoping to grow mentally, and spiritually!
And I recommend, that if you have not already, to buy Do Hard Things, and read continuously
http://biblicalblueprints.org/products/Why_Study_Theology-bkl.pdf I would especially like to encourage the teens to read. Very often young people will have "bookophobia" and stay away from books. But how can these lead their family when they grow up? how will they refute wrong ideas? Studying, and especially God's word, will prepare you for the future, and aid you today.
And I recommend, that if you have not already, to buy Do Hard Things, and read continuously
http://biblicalblueprints.org/products/Why_Study_Theology-bkl.pdf I would especially like to encourage the teens to read. Very often young people will have "bookophobia" and stay away from books. But how can these lead their family when they grow up? how will they refute wrong ideas? Studying, and especially God's word, will prepare you for the future, and aid you today.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
First Post
Hello to my readers, (if there is more than one of you) welcome to my blog, "My Thoughts".
This blog is an attempt to share my musings with the world, and hopefully impact someone for the better, and hopefully someone will help me become a better person.
As for my beliefs, I am a Republican and very Conservative, as well as a Protestant, Reformed Christian. I enjoy listening to, and playing music, and homeschooling enables me to spend as much extra time as I want playing music. I am not yet very experienced at this, so please have patience as I further my areas of expertise.
I blog with anticipation!
-Anonymous Blogger
This blog is an attempt to share my musings with the world, and hopefully impact someone for the better, and hopefully someone will help me become a better person.
As for my beliefs, I am a Republican and very Conservative, as well as a Protestant, Reformed Christian. I enjoy listening to, and playing music, and homeschooling enables me to spend as much extra time as I want playing music. I am not yet very experienced at this, so please have patience as I further my areas of expertise.
I blog with anticipation!
-Anonymous Blogger
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