tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43631283213052567502024-02-20T03:46:01.459-06:00Captive to the Word of GodThoughts and ramblings from one who desires his conscience, like Luther's, to be "captive to the Word of God."TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-28942757317546593302023-01-16T18:14:00.001-06:002023-01-16T18:14:51.261-06:00Judah Going Down<p> <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">As an older American, I often
reflect upon my youth, and I have concluded that growing up in America during
the 1950s was wonderful! Our country was the greatest in the world proven by
our victory in World War II! No one could beat us though we had those school
A-bomb drills!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">No, there was no social media, no
laptops, no wireless communications. Personal computers, laptops, or cell
phones occupied no room in our brains. Our television was small but quite heavy.
Every scene on its screen was in black and white. We had five channels that I
can recall (ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, and a St. Louis local station). Believe it or
not, there was no TV remote control either.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Telephones were connected to the
wall by a cord that always seemed too short. Some phones were on “party lines”
meaning multiple homes used the same line for communicating (yes, you could
listen in to your neighbor’s calls). Furthermore, the only dishwasher available
was human, some individual (usually your mother) standing at the sink scrubbing
the dishes by hand.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">But childhood in the 1950s was a
blast. Most of us attended public school in which we always began our day by
saying the Pledge of Allegiance as we stood and saluted the flag. We studied
arithmetic/math, science, English, writing, reading, spelling, music, and took
physical recreation (i.e., “gym” or “P.E.”). There were kids who bullied others
(I know I was verbally bullied throughout public school) but not to the extreme
as some do today. I never felt physically threatened at school and I don’t
believe my parents were ever concerned about my safety while I was there.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Over the summer, my younger brother
and I were rarely inside the house and often not even at home. We would go
outside and play Wiffle Ball, cowboys and Indians, and war. When we grew older,
we would leave the house in the morning, ride our bikes to a pre-selected ball
field (often just an empty lot), play ball, eat lunch (sometimes that required
a return trip home; other times we took a sandwich), play more ball, get home
for supper, then play outside until dark. Our parents never seemed worried
about our absence (they may have been relieved we weren’t home!).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">For the eighteen years I lived at
home, our house doors were not locked. No one ever stole anything from our
house. We had no outside security system. I don’t believe my father owned a gun
since I never saw one. Yet everyone went to bed at night with little concern
for their well-being.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Girls who were pregnant out of
wedlock were frowned upon but not “thrown away” like trash or told to abort
their child. The boys involved in such cases were also frowned upon. The
message was clear: you don’t have sex until after you are married. That is the
standard. That is what society has deemed to be proper.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Furthermore, there was no talk of same
sex marriage. Any such relationships were condemned. Multiple genders were not
even mentioned when I was a child. Oh, you might have a girl who behaved
somewhat like a boy occasionally. We called them “tomboys.” Tomboys were often
revealed in our town by their love for baseball and how they played the game. But
a tomboy was still a girl. Any form I filled out would require me to check
either the “M” box or the “F” box for my sex/gender. Two genders were all that
had ever existed from the beginning of history.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">They were divorces but they were
not common. A single parent home in those days was usually because of a death
of the other parent. Divorce was also frowned upon.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">But we played with our neighbors
and with our school friends. Sometimes we would celebrate July 4</span><sup style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">
with one another by setting off fireworks in our own yards. And it was always a
thrill to follow the mosquito truck down the street and run in its glorious
spray (likely DDT!).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">What a great country and a fun time
to grow up!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">After seven decades I see the
America that has been left to my children, grandchildren, and great
grandchildren. I want to weep and weep and weep. What a disaster it has become.
It seems every social standard from the beginning of time has been discarded.
Pregnant out of wedlock? No big deal. Living with the opposite sex prior to
marriage? No big deal. You’re a male and want to become a female? No big deal.
In fact, you have at least two options of accomplishing this feat. First,
simply tell everyone you are a woman and then freely use the ladies’ bathroom.
Second, undergo operations and devour medicines to take on the appearance of a
woman. How ridiculous.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">We had immigrants back in the fifties.
However, such immigrants came to our country legally, sought citizenship, and
work to make a living. Today, invade our country by coming here illegally and receive
benefits from the taxpayers without ever becoming a citizen. Why that’s not a big
deal either. One entire political party supports that position even if it means
permitting terrorists to come into our midst.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">As I write, our nation is cursed
with inflation, sexual degradation on all fronts, illegal “immigration”,
district attorneys more interested in prosecuting victims rather than
criminals, increasing taxes, lower and unstable stock market, a Justice system
against parents at school board meetings, transportation systems in chaos,
crime way up especially in major cities run by Democrats, attempts to eliminate
guns, ongoing killing of the unborn and there’s much more. I feel ill merely
typing the words.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Our children were mostly watched
over by us. Rarely did they leave our neighborhood without permission. Our car
doors and house doors are always locked. Most of us (including myself) converse
mainly with our devices. The later generations seem to live their life with the
sole goal of being happy all the time. If, for ANY reason, they do not feel
happy, they find themselves depressed or bored. I can honestly say I was not
happy as a child all the time; no child is. But I had a happy childhood. Was I
ever depressed when unhappy? Not that I can recall. Was I ever truly bored in
life? Again, not that I can recall. We always found something to do. Make
something, read something, play a game, sit around and talk, pester my
siblings. There was always something to do and it didn’t necessarily require
parental supervision or assistance. If you were sitting around and doing
nothing (which was fine too), you would get up and find something to do.
Period. Why there might even be a show to watch that did not contain sex,
nudity, extreme violence, profanity, etc., yet taught a good lesson for life,
especially for children.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">I regret what America is becoming,
not so much for me but for my descendants.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">The prophet Jeremiah knows of what
I write. Israel had been a great nation under David and then Solomon. But, upon
Solomon’s death, the kingdom split into two kingdoms. The Northern Kingdom
remained the Kingdom of Israel. The Bible tells us each of its kings was evil.
They failed to follow the teachings of God. They even followed false gods. They
worshipped idols. After two hundred years, the Assyrians invaded, defeated
them, and scattered them throughout their empire.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">The other Kingdom, the Southern
Kingdom, was known as the Kingdom of Judah. It was also governed by evil kings
but there were also several kings who were obedient to the Lord. Over the
centuries, though, evil began to triumph in Judah. Around 620 B.C., God called
Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah (a priest) to be a prophet to Judah in its waning
days. This great prophet is referred to as the “weeping prophet” for throughout
his book he weeps for his people and what the future held for them. God gave
the Kingdom of Judah to their enemies, the Babylonians, just as He had foretold
to and through Jeremiah.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">So, Judah, once a great kingdom
founded upon and, under some godly leaders, is virtually destroyed and taken
captive. Many of God’s people were driven out of their homeland to other
locations. Oh, the mighty have fallen.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">I see many similarities in America
that compare to those in Jeremiah’s book. We were never a perfect nation nor
was Judah. Judah and the USA have experienced good (perhaps godly) leaders,
good times, strong military, a worship and obedience of the true God, and
freedom. But American is on decline in similar ways that Judah declined. Is our
captivity around the corner? I do not know. As a prophet, my prophesies are
limited to the Word of God as was Jeremiah’s. He received his directly from the
Lord. I receive mine from the Lord through His Word, the Bible, and the Bible
does not mention America.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Recently, my Bible reading brought
me to Jeremiah chapter nine. I would encourage the reader to read the entire
chapter. I will quote only a portion of that entry and will do so in three
parts.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">(1) Jeremiah 9:10-11</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">“I will take up weeping and wailing
for the mountains, and a lamentation for pastures of the wilderness, because
they are laid waste so that no one passes through, and the lowing of the cattle
is not heard; both the birds of the air and the beasts have fled and are gone.
I will make Jerusalem a heap of ruins, a lair of jackals, and I will make the
cities of Judah a desolation, without inhabitant.”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Here we have the promise of the
Lord God concerning the impending doom of the Kingdom. God will do it, and
nothing will stay His hand. One part of this section did strike me, though. God
will make Jerusalem a heap of ruins (remember, Jerusalem is the capital city),
a lair of jackals (no one likes jackals; does our capital city already have a
lair of jackals? I’d prefer to use another “jack” word to describe them but
will hold my tongue!). Now onto part two.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">(2) Jeremiah 9:12</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">“Who is the man so wise that he can
understand this? To whom has the mouth of the LORD spoken, that he may declare
it? Why is the land ruined and laid waste like a wilderness, so that no one
passes through?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">God is speaking directly to
Jeremiah in this verse. Who can understand what He is about to do? Who is the
man who will declare the forthcoming doom to others? Obviously, Jeremiah and
others called to be prophets are the ones God expects to understand the forthcoming
judgment and proclaim it to the inhabitants.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Then comes a key question from the
Lord.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">“WHY is the land ruined and laid
waste like a wilderness, so that no one passes through?” Does Jeremiah
understand why punishment is coming from God upon Judah? What has Judah done
(or not done) that has led to this moment? Before we read God’s answer to His
own question, isn’t this the question we should ask ourselves?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Anyone having lived the past seven
or more decades clearly sees an America on a decline. Will we decline into
oblivion much like Judah? I do not know. But the question on our hearts should
be the same question posed by God. What has caused this great decline in our
great nation in such a brief time. WHY, O God, is this happening? Part three
provides the answer.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">(3) Jeremiah 9:13-14</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">“And the LORD says: ‘Because they
have forsaken my law that I set before them, and have not obeyed my voice or
walked in accord with it, but have stubbornly followed their own hearts and
have gone after the Baals, as their fathers taught them.’”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Judah’s demise was for the
following actions.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">1. They forsook (abandoned) God’s
Law that He gave them. They did not obey His voice or obey His Law.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">I recall the Ten Commandments
posted on the walls of some of my elementary school classrooms. Try to do that
today! People do not follow or even know the law of God. No murder (including
the unborn child), no sexual perversion (LGBTQ+...), no sex outside of marriage
(perversion and adultery), ignorance of what marriage is (one man, one woman,
lifetime commitment to one another) and so forth.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">2. Instead they “stubbornly
followed their own hearts”.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">They did whatever they wanted to
do, whatever would bring “meaning” to their lives, whatever would make them
happy. They have put their desires above the very will of the Almighty. They
must live their own life as they “best see fit.” They do so “stubbornly” for it
is their depraved heart which rejects God that has caused this stubborn
rebellion against their Creator.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">3. Furthermore, they have followed
the Baals, i.e., the false gods.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Their worship and their lives were
not committed to the Lord Yahweh. Instead, they devoted themselves to their
personal gods. Many Americans are behaving in the same way. Their god might be
the LGBTQ+ camp. Their god might be work or money. Their god might be the
environment (“Mother Nature,” i.e., climate change). Perhaps their god is
politics or some union. Far too many Americans worship the god known as “self.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Furthermore, if you attack one of
these idols, the idol worshipper will not listen to you and, most likely,
outright reject not only what you say, but also you personally. The more you
attempt to explain the Lord’s Word concerning their idol, the more hateful (“stubborn”)
is their response.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Despite the doom
and gloom of this Biblical chapter, the Lord has good news for the people. I
quote from chapter nine, verses twenty-three through twenty-six:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">“Thus says the
LORD: ‘Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast
in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast
in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who practices
steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I
delight, declares the Lord.’”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">What are you
boasting in? Do you understand who God is and what He demands? Do you know God
personally? Have you experienced His steadfast love, His justice, His
righteousness? If not your boast is in the wrong god and that god will do you
no good in the future.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">God calls upon you
to repent of your sins. By repent, I mean not merely tell God you are sorry for
them and desire forgiveness, but also that you intend to no longer pursue them
with God’s help. Then God calls on you to believe in the person and work of the
Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. This belief, this faith, is not merely a
belief of facts or knowledge (head faith). It is also a belief in your soul
(heart faith). To believe on Jesus is to put the trust and care of your entire
being in His hands and to follow Him.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">If you are not a
believer, repent and believe today for now is the day of salvation.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">America is on that downward path.
As Christians, we have the responsibility to proclaim the Gospel to all, even
those who stubbornly reject us and to pray for the Lord’s intervention in their
lives.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">May God work a mighty work of
revival in our land and turn our people back to Him so that, once more, our
descendants may find their America to be wonderful!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-85391449860924054492022-12-19T18:37:00.000-06:002022-12-19T18:37:32.705-06:00Wisdom from a Ghost<p> <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">In general, I am not a fan of
Charles Dickens. Most of his works have bored me and, therefore, I did not
finish them. However, this is not the case with the Dickens stories written for
the Christmas season. “The Cricket on the Hearth: A Fairy Tale of Home” is a
fun little Christmas work. But the Dickens’ account which caught my soul early
on is “A Christmas Carol.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">The short story has been turned
into film and television renditions. I’ve watched most of them, enjoyed a few,
but each one deviates from the novel in some way. So, each year as December 25</span><sup style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">
closes in, I pick up one of my copies of the novel and read it. There are only
five chapters (or staves), and the overall story is very brief. Normally, I
read one stave a day. Apart from some of the English vocabulary and terms used
by Dickens, it is an easy story to read.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">SPOILERS AHEAD</span></u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">. If you have NOT read the story, I
suggest you do so first.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Yesterday I finished the opening
stave. That chapter ends with the visit of Marley’s Ghost appearing to Ebenezer
Scrooge. Scrooge reminds the ghost that he was a good man of business. The
ghost then replies with one of the many classic lines from Dickens.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><b><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">“Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business;
charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were, all, my business. The
dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my
business!”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">When I read that brief paragraph, it fits well to describe every
human walking this earth but especially on believers. Mankind is our business.
They need the Gospel and, apart from us sharing it with them, they will remain
lost. Yes, mankind is our business. We, as Christians, are to be about charity
and mercy and longsuffering and benevolence towards others. What we do for a
living, whatever our trade may be, we should perform that task spirit of the goal:
rescuing humanity. Opportunities to share the Gospel arise in every workplace.
Grab those opportunities and share Christ. Use some of your financial gain to
support your church and other ministry organizations for the glory of Christ.
Use the skills you developed in your trade to help others and, in so doing,
minister to them with charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence. In this
way, you may proclaim Christ to a lost soul.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">From what I know of Dickens, he was likely not a true believer.
Also, there is no indication he wrote “A Christmas Carol” to glorify Christ.
However, quotes like the one above certainly have value for the reborn
Christian. Marley’s ghost is right. Mankind is our business.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations...”</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTRQfhPZlQRYc0SaMw7iedQrMg717CgGmf_1MSHdneey7zR3UrkC5pJsEKL10YnVJoZieuvA-NoUVZ8ZfKrJII8tsJOMaNgwBRwhBIgWOgNFxzhgGpJi1X4dCzrT5YhuLes7YijhFhMbgyZ7zGSYOEur0Z2eQsclM_ZMiJUCvTRr4o7apFjqrFvC5/s1280/zzz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1280" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTRQfhPZlQRYc0SaMw7iedQrMg717CgGmf_1MSHdneey7zR3UrkC5pJsEKL10YnVJoZieuvA-NoUVZ8ZfKrJII8tsJOMaNgwBRwhBIgWOgNFxzhgGpJi1X4dCzrT5YhuLes7YijhFhMbgyZ7zGSYOEur0Z2eQsclM_ZMiJUCvTRr4o7apFjqrFvC5/s320/zzz.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><br /></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #292c2e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-55703677014804182942022-12-18T17:33:00.003-06:002022-12-18T17:33:36.713-06:00The Kingdom of God<p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Being Sunday, I have a brief
article today. My thoughts were spurred by a post I saw on Facebook. The entry
contained a quote from R. C. Sproul.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">“The kingdom of God is not of the people, by the
people, or for the people. It is a kingdom ruled by a King, and God does not
rule by the consent of His subjects but by His sovereign authority. His reign
extends over me whether I vote for Him or not.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">What a tremendous statement
teaching the sovereign rule of our great God! With humility I would add just a
few more words to Dr. Sproul’s final sentence.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">“His reign extends over me whether
I vote for Him or not </span><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">or whether I believe in Him or not.</b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">I know some people who were raised
in the church, professed Christ, were baptized, then strayed and now confess
they do not believe God’s Word, nor do they believe there is a God. Obviously,
they were never born again. These are true apostates, always separated from God
and will be forever separated from Him unless they repent and trust Christ.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Learning of such a betrayal causes
me to ponder why. What could have led to this complete denial? Well, it’s their
sinful nature. Though they knew God’s truth, they never surrendered to Him or
His Word. But why do they remain so firmly against God now? They are
comfortable living in their sin, know, from their earlier teaching, it is sin,
but enjoy that sin so much, the only way they can continue to live is to deny it
is sin. And, to accomplish that trick, they must deny the Word and even deny
God’s existence.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Oh, my prayer is that Christ have
mercy on them over this Christmas season. May the Spirit draw them back towards
the Lord and may they finally and completely repent of their sin and turn to
Christ in true saving faith.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">May the Lord Jesus be exalted for
His life, His death, His resurrection, His ascension, His forever reign as a
merciful, gracious, and just King!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7x7BISdMub-JQpIb6SrFO4KgHnmBf2NyP9dh0u89C1RRxE6mUHDX8XpGtvp-NP8YGi3WiT5Z3hkWNqF1Ymh3P2KCmzpyUM1hWNNz3Nj-qJyb4aftDO3Zlhl48-90j1EZkpseX_lVhuReke3jEsFQKD1IYoo0Mx8ED5itRXhb0j_VVptLDDSMp9qK/s768/yyy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="768" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7x7BISdMub-JQpIb6SrFO4KgHnmBf2NyP9dh0u89C1RRxE6mUHDX8XpGtvp-NP8YGi3WiT5Z3hkWNqF1Ymh3P2KCmzpyUM1hWNNz3Nj-qJyb4aftDO3Zlhl48-90j1EZkpseX_lVhuReke3jEsFQKD1IYoo0Mx8ED5itRXhb0j_VVptLDDSMp9qK/s320/yyy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br /></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-40736927593213528032022-12-17T17:20:00.001-06:002022-12-17T17:20:41.787-06:00How Many Does It Take?!<p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Moving on to Matthew 14:33, I find
this verse humorous, interesting, yet also quite profound. Using the English
Standard Version translation, we read:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">“And those in the boat worshiped him,
saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">“Those in the boat” are his disciples of course. I haven’t done any
in-depth research on which of the disciples were present, but my assumption is
that all twelve were there. These closest followers of Jesus perform two
actions: (1) they worship him and (2) they pronounce him to be the Son of God.
Why do I find this to be humorous?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Several events have occurred in
Matthew 14 before this verse. Briefly recapping them, his disciples had seen
Jesus take five loaves of bread and two fish and feed five thousand. When they
picked up the scraps, they filled twelve baskets. The only words recorded in
the Gospels concerning this event are spoken by the crowd. “This is indeed the
Prophet who is to come into the world” (John 6:14). If the disciples had any
response, it was not recorded.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Next, the disciples take the boat
and begin their journey across the Sea of Galilee, battling the wind for
several hours. Jesus suddenly appears walking on the water. Scripture records
the disciples’ response to this sight. They are terrified and they believe
Jesus is a ghost.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Peter requests to walk on the water
with the Lord and the request is granted. So, not only could Christ walk on
water, but he could enable others to do likewise. The eleven in the boat would
have witness this, but, once again, no response from them. Peter does cry out
to the Lord to save him once he begins to sink.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Jesus and Peter finally enter the
boat and the winds immediately cease. Even more miraculous, recall the
disciples were about two-thirds across the lake when Jesus arrived. John 6:21
adds to the ceasing of the wind. “... and immediately the boat was at the land
to which they were going.” IMMEDIATELY!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">A chapter like this one causes me
to briefly chuckle. Miracle after miracle and no response. These men must be
blind and stupid! “Why, if I had been one of the twelve, I would have fallen at
Christ’s feet after He fed the five thousand!” Sure, I would! I am just as
blind and stupid as they were. Why? Because of sin.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">How many miracles must Jesus
perform before the disciples respond to Him? Oh, as sinful beings, our hearts
and minds are hardened by sin. These disciples have been eyewitnesses to these
events and only now do they finally acknowledge Christ’s uniqueness.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Many throughout history have
witnessed miracles in their own lives, attesting to the existence of God and
His Divine Son. But sin has them in bondage. Perhaps they narrowly escaped a
vehicle accident or survived one. Maybe they were overcome by some illness, weren’t
responding to treatment, yet survived. Or they were persecuted by some entity
and almost gave in. But strength came from somewhere to enable them to endure.
There was a time when they had little money with bills overdue and suddenly
they received an anonymous gift of cash. How many of us have experienced
similar incidents and failed to recognize the God who was performing them?
Well, the disciples appear to have missed them as well.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Here in verse thirty-three, the story
changes. NOW they worship Him. NOW they call Him “the Son of God.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">We can’t know another man’s heart. Certainly,
the worship offered by these twelve men was not pure worship for at least some
of them (maybe all). Judas Iscariot is among them. Maybe he sincerely dropped
to his knees and admired this amazing man before Him. But, apart from the
indwelling Spirit of God, there is no true worship (John 4:24). I doubt if any
of the twelve Scripturally worshipped Christ that day.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Again, how many of us do the same?
Our churches are filled with followers of Christ who are not born again and do
not possess the Spirit. They come to church and offer “worship,” but their
worship is not received by the Lord. Furthermore, I fear there are times when true
believers also perform worship out of habit but separated from their heart. Sin
and Satan continue to work against even the believer.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">And, as noted, these twelve also
call Jesus “the Son of God.” Perhaps they sincerely meant what they said. The
things they had witnessed that day convinced them Jesus was unique among men.
The only explanation was He must be God’s Son. But, as with worship, you might genuinely
believe Christ is “the Son of God,” but remain a lost soul. Your head has
accepted that truth. But your heart has not yield, you have not repented, and
you have not turned to Christ with saving faith, trusting Him with your eternal
soul. You are just like the demons. They believe in doctrine, but shudder
before God (James 2:19).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">My call to those who read this post
is to make certain you are a true believer in Christ. Do you truly worship Him?
Is He truly the Lord of your life? To believe in Christ is to trust in Christ
and to trust in Christ is to follow and depend upon Him. Is that you?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do you truly believe He is the Son
of God, God in the flesh? The Creator, the Redeemer, the Intercessor, the
Judge; do you truly believe these things? Have you bowed your knee and put all
your trust in Him? If not, please do so today. Confess your sins to Him. Ask
Him to forgive you. Turn from your sinful ways and trust Him to do so now and
for the rest of your life.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Praise the Almighty, Jesus the Messiah
IS the Son of God!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvG6WSHHtA0HF_4bLdyed5sSB8W_pp6vZ1Dxvgq3TLuZQbWrhzpqmQPjj4JlVnnL4y9DmSNjA8iVWEPWLMEM_zrk0TDiM5fYAjlpDyJ9DC1jJmf8AL7z4e6o3d_mkABkHKL77iltP_bSSPq09yzKXeKZkKgx0jY4nMl7T2A5oTDxucKGd86lJEH8Y/s236/xxx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="236" data-original-width="236" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvG6WSHHtA0HF_4bLdyed5sSB8W_pp6vZ1Dxvgq3TLuZQbWrhzpqmQPjj4JlVnnL4y9DmSNjA8iVWEPWLMEM_zrk0TDiM5fYAjlpDyJ9DC1jJmf8AL7z4e6o3d_mkABkHKL77iltP_bSSPq09yzKXeKZkKgx0jY4nMl7T2A5oTDxucKGd86lJEH8Y/w301-h301/xxx.jpg" width="301" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><p></p><br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-69342197821215546302022-12-16T20:08:00.001-06:002022-12-16T20:08:35.587-06:00The Wind Ceased<p> <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Yesterday, my daily translation
exercise brought me to Matthew 14:32, a brief verse which reads:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">“And when they got into the boat
the wind ceased.”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Working out the translation was
simple and straightforward so that was not what grabbed me. I’ve read this
verse many times over the years, but never felt the impact of those words until
yesterday.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">The flow of the chapter includes
Jesus feeding the five thousand. After that pericope concludes, Jesus
immediately sends his disciples via a boat across the Sea of Galilee. Once they
have departed, he goes up on a mountain and prays.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;">Bringing the various Gospel accounts
together, we find the disciples are making little headway because of the
strong, stormy winds flowing over the sea. These men are professional fishermen,
familiar with boats and intense winds. According to John’s account and the
geography of the sea, we can estimate the disciples had only gone about
two-thirds of the distance despite rowing for several hours.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Suddenly, they see a figure walking
on the water. They are terrified. Jesus calms His followers by calling out to
them. Peter, in a moment of faith and courage, requests Jesus to let him walk
on the water. We know the story, of course. Jesus does so, Peter steps out and
briefly walks on the water, notices the wind and the waves, and begins to sink.
He cries out to Jesus to save him, and the Lord graciously does. The next scene
brings us to Matthew 14:32.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Ad3UGDzeRn0nu0KnOFRE8S8DQ6N8QBuWLWlITbI33gnjp3ayN9bLgfOwNlHY1yVYnZWfw0GSkm1TXtHgnlt7SpPGsFQMo96glHIU5a7zpg_rKk5iHChN1rANvIA3OzvVldMQmxSRfdpJM88Kw1T9Apyv3kaie2_GSvUzlszrXXoJRtzw5WXYitsS/s740/picc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="740" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Ad3UGDzeRn0nu0KnOFRE8S8DQ6N8QBuWLWlITbI33gnjp3ayN9bLgfOwNlHY1yVYnZWfw0GSkm1TXtHgnlt7SpPGsFQMo96glHIU5a7zpg_rKk5iHChN1rANvIA3OzvVldMQmxSRfdpJM88Kw1T9Apyv3kaie2_GSvUzlszrXXoJRtzw5WXYitsS/w356-h223/picc.png" width="356" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">“And when they (i.e., Jesus and
Peter) got into the boat THE WIND CEASED.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Amazing! After battling the wind
for hours, it suddenly ceases when Jesus and Peter are in the boat. I’m
convinced it is a miracle performed by Christ. Whether or not, though, that is
not what struck me. Let me explain.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">The Christian walking in this world
is constantly battling the winds. These may be financial winds, employment winds,
relationship winds, or a combination of various winds. Life, even for the
believer, is difficult while he lives in this sinful society. He has the
indwelling Spirit. He has the forgiveness procured by Christ. He has the love
of God revealed by our regeneration. Nevertheless, he must battle those winds
every day. There are days when the winds are stronger than other days. He is
one of those disciples in the boat struggling against the winds. Then Jesus
comes. He comes through our meditation of Scripture. He comes as we call out to
God in prayer. He comes as we hear the Word of God proclaimed. The believer
remembers all Christ has done on his behalf. He came to save sinners and the
believer is one. That salvation required Christ’s death on the cross. The
Lord’s death guarantees the believer’s forgiveness of all sin, payment for all
sin, and assurance of a future home in glory where there will be no more sin.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">As he reflects upon these truths
and Christ’s promises, the winds cease. He becomes more calm and more
confident. Considering Christ even for a moment during such troubles will bring
joy and peace to one’s soul.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Yes, the winds will return. They
may take a different form (e.g., car breakdown, unexpected illness) but they
will be back possibly with even more fury. When they come, let us consider our
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and experience a respite from the storm.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">“And when they got
into the boat the wind ceased.”</span></b></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-62882521288159215852022-05-03T19:44:00.000-05:002022-05-03T19:44:16.964-05:00Mary, Mary, How Many Genders are There?<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Mary, Mary, quite contrary</span></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Now what gender are you doing?</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Female, male to gender-fluid</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Today gender non-conforming.</span></div></blockquote><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The question I ask today is, "How many genders are there?" In case you were wondering, allow me to provide the answer: 2.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Surprised? If you do an internet search you will find some sites claiming there are 64 genders, others say 72. I found one which claimed 12 (including those listed in the little poem above). And, of course, there are folks who claim an infinite number of genders are available. Which one are you choosing today?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Perhaps you are confused. You are like me. When asked on a form to define my gender, I always check the "male" box. Until recently, I never saw any form with more than 2 boxes for answering that question. A form I completed a few days ago gave me three options: male, female, other. I guess the "other" refers to the fictional genders.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Yes, there are only two genders. Yes, all other "genders" mentioned and described in this generation are fictional. They have developed in a person's mind in the place of reason and logic.. The gender identity question of the day is foolishness run amok. Invent as many "genders" as you want, there are only two and you belong to one of those groups: male or female.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Those who believe in multiple genders > 2 will dispute this fact. "Why, I am gender-fluid. Today I'm a male; tomorrow a female; on Wednesday a female giraffe." It's a joke and yet I feel very sorry for those who truly believe such unreasonable nonsense. I may "feel" more like a woman today and a cat tomorrow, nevertheless my gender always has been and always will be male. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">God has ordained humanity this way. Genesis informs us He created humans as male and female. Jesus confirmed this. The Scripture NEVER speaks of other gender possibilities. God says 2 genders. That settles it even if you don't believe it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Biology confirms this fact. We know about the chromosomes. "XX" sex chromosome is female while "XY" is male. The multiple gender supporters claim gender is more than biology and chromosomes. No, its not. You simply want it to be that way. Some things in life we cannot change and our gender is one of those things (discussion of transgender will follow in another post). I can change my weight but not my height (unless I use stilts or high heels). My eyes will always be blue unless I choose either colored contacts or an eye transplant! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">God has not given us the option to change our gender no matter how we might feel on any given day. He determines your gender at the moment of conception. Your cells will carry that chromosome for the rest of your life. And that chromosome provides internal proof of your gender while your genitals provide external proof.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Add to this attempt to find your "true" gender, we now have the pronoun discussion. Do you go by "he/him", "she/her", "he/her", "ze/zim" or any other combination. Again, your pronouns are easily defined. You are either "he/him" or "she/her". In most cases, I can tell by a quick observation what to call you. If I use pronouns you don't like, too bad. You see, "he/her" or "she/him" or "ze/zim" do not exist. Use your head and some simple reasoning and you'll figure it out.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The question of gender identity is settled at conception, revealed at birth, and remains unchanged to death and beyond. I pity those who are confused and those who desperately want to change genders. Some of you have been deceived by false teachers. Some of you are affected by a mental disability and need help from a good doctor. Nothing good will come from this for the person suffering from gender confusion or for society. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">If you are confused, your best help will be found in God's Word and from the Great Physician. You need to return to the real world, recognize the sinfulness of your gender searching (i.e., you are telling God you and not He decides gender), and turn to Jesus Christ for salvation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Now, as I close, let us review all the genders: (1) male (2) female. That will do!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p> </p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-12926238349668748532022-04-29T15:35:00.000-05:002022-04-29T15:35:11.502-05:00A Brief Look at Deaconess<p> <span style="font-family: helvetica;">Our church recently adopted a constitutional change permitting women to serve as deacons (and that is what they will be called). For centuries, Christian writers have studied this topic. Good men have come to different understandings. This author falls far short of the abilities of those who have already addressed the subject. All I want to do in this brief article is to present a</span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> </span><u style="font-family: helvetica;">part</u><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">of my argument as to why women should NOT serve as deacons. I will not go into great depths but focus only on the 1 Timothy 3 passage. When I conclude that discussion, I have some thoughts on what should be done if a church decides to have women deacons.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">1 Timothy 3:8-13</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">First, the Romans 16:1 verse referring to Phoebe as a "deacon" (or "servant") of the church at Cenchreae is far too ambiguous. In light of 1 Timothy 2, I find it difficult to believe Paul saw Phoebe as an official of a local church. There is a brief study claiming that when the phrase "of the church" follows a title (e.g., deacon) that the office referred to is an official office in the church. My personal examination of these verses in the New Testament (and there aren't many) doesn't prove anything conclusive to me. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Therefore, the only other text in the New Testament which may support women deacons is in 1 Timothy 3. Here is the verses as translated in the English Standard Version:</span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain.<br /></b><b>9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.<br /></b><b>10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.<br /></b><b>11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things.<br /></b><b>12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. <br /></b><b>13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.</b></span></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: font-family;"> </span><span style="background-color: font-family;">Those who support women deacons argue that verses 8-10 present the qualifications for male deacons, verse 11 are the qualifications for female deacons, and verses 12-13 combine male and female deacons. Let's discuss the original Greek behind some of the words in this text.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">"Deacons" (vv. 8, 10, 12, 13) - the noun used in 8 and 12 is diakonos, meaning servant or deacon, context must decide. Verses 10 and 13 use the verb diakoneo meaning to wait upon or to serve. The words are from the same root. The ESV has translated the verb as "serve as deacons". So, same word. In form, the word is masculine. However, there is no feminine form so the same word is used when referring to the service of a female.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">"wife, wives" (vv. 11, 12) - In both cases, the word is gune, a feminine word meaning woman or wife, context must decide. This is the most common word for woman or wife in the New Testament.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Based on this analysis, contextually "wives" in verse 11 could be "women" and, therefore, describing the qualifications of a female deacon. However, assuming that to be true, then verse 12 which is claimed to be referring to all deacons (male and female) presents a problem. </span></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p><span style="background-color: font-family; font-size: 16px;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">"Let deacons each be the husband of one wife."</span></b></span></p></blockquote><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Literally, the final clause can be rendered "one woman man". Per Scripture, there is no way a woman deacon can be the "husband" of one wife. Such behavior would be homosexual and, therefore, condemned by God. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Hence, I do not believe verse 11 is referring to women deacons but to the wives of deacons. If Paul was really introducing a new/different office in verse 11, why not begin it with the female rendering of deacon? Of course, the masculine and feminine forms are the same. But all Paul needed to do was write "tas diakonous" and the verse becomes "The female deacons likewise". That would have made the passage quite clear.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Based on these two straightforward look at the text and the addition of a little reasoning, verse 11 does not introduce women deacons but merely tells the church to make certain the wife of the deacon is a good woman. I believe this understanding makes more sense in the context: vv. 8-10 are deacon qualifications, v. 11 are their wives qualifications, vv. 12-13 conclude the section on deacons.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Some have argued back at me that, if this is the case, why didn't Paul say something about the wives of the elders. I do not know and will not speculate. God has His reasons.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">With certainty I can conclude that Phoebe was a wonderful servant of her local church but was not serving as a deaconess.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>"Deaconess"</b></span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">As I noted at the beginning, my church has already adopted women deacons. While I oppose the direction and pray we may, one day, discard that change, I want to share a few thoughts about having female deacons.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1. In my analysis above, the only way to have a female deacon who does hot have a "wife" would be for that woman to be single or widowed. This would align better with Titus 2.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2. Even in a church "ruled" by elders, deacons are in a position of authority. They hold an office in the local church. They engage in specific tasks not given to every member (e.g., serving the supper). Many churches have deacons teaching classes and, as a teacher, they have authority. To avoid conflicts with Paul in 1 Timothy 2, the responsibilities for a woman deacon need to be defined long before one is chosen. Those responsibilities can not be the same as they are for male deacons because a woman executing such responsibilities would be exercising authority over men (another argument for not having women deacons).</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3. Deacons have their own meetings as well as meetings with the elders. A woman in such meetings may feel "out of place" with all the men around. I'm not arguing this from Scripture, merely from personal experience. Again, if you want women deacons, decide how you will handle such meetings before you choose one.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: font-family;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>May our Lord Jesus Christ receive all the glory!</b></span></span></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-21304359342178465412021-09-03T12:13:00.000-05:002021-09-03T12:13:21.300-05:00Why I Haven't Received the COVID-19 Vaccine<p> Over the past several months, I have been repeatedly encouraged to get the COVID-19 vaccine by some family members, friends, organizations, and even the Federal government. I am over 65 and have several co-morbidities. As of this post, I have refused to do so. Some want to know why, therefore, I will give you a few of my reasons. </p><p>I have listened to the information concerning the vaccine from a variety of news organizations (not simply Fox News which I rarely listen to any more). I have read the CDC's own data bases. I have listened to scientists and medical folks ON BOTH SIDES of the issue. Finally, I have weighed this information and used my conscience to arrive at the conclusion that I will not receive the vaccine now or in the near future no matter what threats the government might use against me. </p><p>So, in no particular order, here are <u>some</u> of my reasons for refusing.</p><p>1. The Federal government is seriously pushing the vaccine. Now, in my many years on this planet, I have never seen such an effort on behalf of the government to get people to do something. No matter where you turn, there is an effort to shove you into the vaccination line. Anytime government gets this demanding (even threating the use of "vaccine passports" for travel, etc.), I fear something is afoot. I have studied history and I know what they did in Germany in the 1930s. </p><p>2. The vaccines are not approved but are in emergency use. Yes, I know the Pfizer vaccine has recently been approved but I have other reasons for not getting it. First of all, approval of these vaccines is much too rapid. While I am grateful Operation Warp Speed expedited their manufacture, we have absolutely no idea what they will do to their recipients in 20 years, 10 years, even in 1 year. From my studies, I do not believe ANY vaccine has been approved for human use in such a short time frame from its creation. I received a smallpox vaccination, polio vaccination, pneumonia vaccination, flu vaccinations, shingles vaccination, etc., but these vaccines took years of trials before being approved. I might get the COVID-19 vaccine next year or the year after, but not this soon. I want more testing.</p><p>3. Furthermore, the Nuremburg Code does not permit the forced/required use of experimental drugs on human subjects. If our government attempts to mandate every citizen receive the vaccine while it is still experimental, that would be a violation of this code. I sure have heard the word "mandate" quite often over the past few weeks. </p><p>4. There are cures, apart from the vaccine, for COVID-19. Several doctors have used Hydroxychloroquine and Zinc successfully as well as other long-approved drugs to cure COVID-19 patients. These drugs have been downplayed in the media simply because President Trump mentioned them early in 2020 (and I'm certain he received his information from medical folks). </p><p>5. Even if one catches COVID-19, the mortality rate is extremely low (less than 1% of those who have it). If I ever reach the decision to receive the vaccine, I would want to first be tested for COVID-19 antibodies since I may have had a mild dose of the illness in early 2020.</p><p>6. The vaccines are less effective than true antibodies.</p><p>7. Receiving the vaccine does NOT guarantee that you will not get COVID-19. Yes, in most cases, the vaccinated individual receives a milder form of COVID and avoids the hospital. But that is not true in all cases. So, even with the vaccine, there are no guarantees.</p><p>8. If I recall correctly, the three leading vaccines in the United States (Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J) are not actually vaccines like other vaccines we receive. In the other vaccines, we are given a small dose of the disease so our own immune system can develop the antibodies in preparation of battling a full onslaught of the illness. The COVID-19 vaccines manipulate the human RNA. Can anyone be certain as to the impacts on the human body by such a procedure? What about in a year? Maybe 10 years? See item 2 above.</p><p>9. The only approved COV ID-19 vaccine at this time is Pfizer. In its development and testing, this vaccine utilized cells from partially aborted babies. I am completely opposed to abortion and such usage to me if reprehensible. Some might argue that is true for other vaccines as well. If it is, I was unaware of that fact at the time I received those vaccines. In this case, though, I found this out BEFORE I received a vaccine and I will never knowingly support abortion in any form, even in this case.</p><p>10. Referring back to #1, the government and the media appear to doing all they can to keep COVID before the public eyes. They continually push fear. They tell us to wear one, two, or even three masks when the cloth masks used by most folks do NOT prevent the transmission of the bug. They tell us to keep 6 feet apart when more recent studies indicate that distance should be at least 20 feet. They constantly predict super spreader events and have been proven wrong (e.g., Sturgis). Our officials do not practice what they preach (parties without masks or distancing; President Obama's huge party; the Speaker frequently not wearing a mask while demanding members of the House do). Something is wrong with this scenario. The pandemic is never ending because political leaders have found they can use it to their advantage to gain more power. Now they wish to divide the populace into the "I have received the vaccine" and, supposedly, "antivaxxers". Well, I am not an antivaxxer. But my conscience tells me something is amiss with all of this and, for now, I will not cooperate.</p><p>It has been pointed out that I am awaiting a kidney transplant and one of my daughters, who has been vaccinated, has graciously volunteered to be my donor. From this comes two questions: first, since she has the vaccine, won't I be receiving it indirectly via the transplant? Second, how can I take her kidney but not the vaccine and possibly die soon from COVID-19? Wouldn't that be a shame for her to lose a kidney because I refused to get vaccinated?</p><p>The answer to the first question is fairly simply. She, guided by her conscience, chose to receive the vaccine. I had, and shouldn't have, any say in that matter. I have no issues with folks who get the COVID-19 vaccine. Each person must act on his own conscience. Does that mean I will be affected by the changes to her RNA in the transplant? I have no idea (nor does anyone else due to the lack of testing) but I trust the transplant team to make these decisions.</p><p>The second question is a bit more difficult. COVID-19 aside, I have asked my daughter on numerous occasions if she is certain she wishes to be a donor. I fear her giving up a kidney at such a young age. Each time I mention it, she says yes. Again, this is her decision. She knows I will not be upset if she backs out at any time. </p><p>And, yes, even with the transplant, I might die in a year from COVID-19. Of course, I might also die the day I leave the hospital from a car accident or from a heart attack (more likely) or some other ailment. No one, but God, knows what the next day will bring to your life. I will not live in fear of death for I have a Savior no matter what happens to me. </p><p>Again, each person must follow his conscience. My conscience tells me now is not the time for the vaccine.</p><p><br /></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-90005730783508821412021-03-23T17:20:00.001-05:002021-03-23T17:21:01.780-05:00The Sins of America: #3 Gender Identity<p> Having lived seventy years, I have been required to fill out numerous forms: medical, employment, student, government, etc. For most of my life, these forms all contained one very easy question to answer. In fact, all you had to do was choose a box and check it. The question (in question) was: "Gender". Of all the information those asking for the completion of the form wanted, that was surely one of the simplest to answer. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case.</p><p>Instead of being male or female, forms now let you choose "Other". In some cases there are even more possible selections. "Transwoman", "Transman", and so on and so forth. In my humble opinion, having more than two choices for this category is ludicrous. It doesn't align with biology and certainly does not align with Scripture. And, yet, here we are in our American society. Not only are we permitting such labeling, we are also promoting it. Somehow, after six to eight thousand years of existence, humanity has "evolved" into more than two genders. Wow! How and when did this happen?</p><p>I do not profess to be the most holy man who ever lived. I sin. I make mistakes. However, I do my best to sync my conscience on various issues with what GOD has said rather than what MAN might think. It is no different on this issue. God has created two genders of humans, PERIOD. He tells us this first in Genesis 1 when He creates male and female. He elaborates on that very creation in Genesis 2 again with male and female. Every human born since Adam and Eve has been and will be either male or female. That is God's plan, His decree. He will not alter it. He will not create a third, fourth, or fifth choice. When conception occurs, God has ordained you either to be male or female.</p><p>Our society hates being told there are things in their life they cannot change. TOUGH. Time to grow up! I can't really change my eye color. I can't tell everyone I have dark brown eyes when they are clearly blue. I can't claim to be a basketball star 6' 10" tall because (1) I'm not that tall and (2) I stink at basketball! Like other young boys, I wanted to be a major league ballplayer. I can CLAIM to be one, but I am not. I never could hit the fastball. That is a skill God did not grant to me any more than he made me very tall or gave me brown eyes. </p><p>Yes, He has permitted some freedom with our being. He enables us to gain or lose weight, firm up our body via exercise or not, and care for our teeth or let them rot. But we can't change when we were born, where we were born, to whom we were born, or what we were at birth. You are either a male or female.</p><p>Biology confirms this. Your sex is determined at conception. If the resulting union of the male and female reproductive seeds contain the "XX" chromosome you WILL be a female. If it is the "XY" chromosome, you are a male. You can have as many surgeries as you desire and take as many drugs as you wish in an effort to be another gender, but you CANNOT change those God-given chromosomes which identify you as male or female. Of course, most of us identify another person's gender by their physical appearance. This is also God-given. To be blunt, if God gives you breasts that develop and a vagina, then your chromosomes contain the "XX" chromosome and you are female. You might remove your breasts in an effort to look like a man, but you are still what God intended you to be: a woman. If, instead, God has given you a penis, then you have the "XY" chromosome and you are male. You might have your penis removed and breasts enlarged to appear to be a woman, but you are still what God intended you to be: a man.</p><p>From the beginning of your existence, God has settled the issue of which gender you are to be in life. That is HIS plan for YOU and it is a wonderful plan! To make any effort to change your gender is to curse God for what He has done, accuse Him of treating you wrong, and attempting to live your life as YOU want to live it, not as He wants you to live it.</p><p>Today in America, we have many attempting to change their gender by various means. Many have been deceived by Satan and others who have undergone such "transformations". Some simply dress like the other sex. Some undergo surgery and hormone treatments, spending tons of money. There are several testimonies of individuals who have tried the latter approach and, in a few years, regretted their actions. Anyone who believes they can live their life by rebelling against the plan of the Almighty will, at some point, realize the poor choice they have made. I pray those individuals come to this realization prior to judgment day.</p><p>The root cause of this problem is very much the same root cause for abortion: men desire to live their lives without God in whatever way they so choose. They don't like their gender so they reject what God has created and attempt to fashion their own creation. They worship themselves, the creature, rather than the one true God.</p><p>I know this article will upset some and folks will say I am "transphobic". No, people who are going through such "transitions" do not scare me. They should be heard and treated with respect. I do not hate those struggling with their gender, rather, I grieve for them. But, as I said earlier, my conscience is captive to the Word of God and that Word is clear on this subject. Denying there are only two genders or claiming God made you the wrong gender is denying the very will of God. Those individuals are in rebellion against Him and, as a minister of the Gospel, I am to call them to repentance for their actions.</p><p>And so, I close with such a call. Will you confess that you have sinned against the Almighty by deciding to live your life as YOU want it to be rather than as God has designed you? Will you, then, call upon the Lord Jesus Christ, the only Savior of any sin, and asked Him to save you? That is my plea.</p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-58017217555769581072021-03-11T17:48:00.004-06:002021-03-11T17:51:16.870-06:00The Sins of America: #2 Homosexuality<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <span>I am certain this will be a poorly received post and that name calling will commence soon after its publication. Permit me to say at the outset, I am not a homophobe. I do not fear homosexuals. I'm not afraid of catching some disease from them or being forced into their lifestyle. What they do with their private lives is their business. Our government has even given them legal authority to marry. Nevertheless, I believe each of us should strive to live within the boundaries our God has given us. Because of that, I pray for those caught up in this sin. Failure to repent from this offense will bring His judgment. Have no doubt; when it comes to homosexuality, His Word is very clear. I will attempt to be as brief as possible.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Both Testaments of God's Word condemn the behavior. Probably the most recognizable portion of Scripture on this subject is found in Romans 1:26-27.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>"For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error."</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">God made us either male or female. He did not join together two men or two women. No, He brought together into marriage one man and one woman. They are to become one flesh. Pursuing sexual relations is to unite the pair, bring pleasure to each partner, and provide for the procreation of the species. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As God has noted in multiple places in his Word, anything apart from this structure is a deviation from His design. Just observe from the above passage how God describes homosexuality.</span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>"dishonorable passions"<br /></span><span>"exchanging natural relations for those that are contrary to nature"<br /></span><span>"gave up natural relations"<br /></span><span>"were consumed with passion for one another"<br /></span><span>"men committing shameless acts with men"</span></span></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Unfortunately, some do have such passions for the same sex. Others are tempted into such a lifestyle by the desires of others. Nevertheless, this is NOT God's design but man's desire. Such desires are the result of being sinful creatures living in a sinful world. However, having such a passion does not DEMAND/REQUIRE you to submit to it. Those who find they have an attraction for the same sex need to flee to the Lord and ask for deliverance from this mindset. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Needless to say, marriage is ALWAYS between a man and a woman. That, too, is God's desire and I may say more on this in a subsequent post. Be assured, however, even though our government may call homosexual marriages legal, God calls them immoral. You must choose whether to follow your own sinful desires or God's sovereign design.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Homosexuality is NOT normal; it is sinful. It is an act of rebellion against God for it exalts the desires of man over the designs of God. It is men (and women) saying THEY know what is best for their life and pursuing it no matter what God has commanded. Such sinful acts against the Almighty will not escape the judgment. If you are caught up in homosexuality, I plead with you to examine God's Word, repent of your sinful behavior, and turn for forgiveness to Jesus Christ. He will NOT ignore unforgiven homosexual behavior when the books are open on the last day. </span></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-8642879415899353652021-03-08T18:39:00.000-06:002021-03-08T18:39:05.247-06:00The Sins of America: #1 Abortion<p>Now is a horrible time in our nation. We are very divided and, I fear, we may be on a downward spiral that will only end with our country's demise. I hate to think of what America may be for my grandchildren and great grandchildren.</p><p>I fear God's hand is about to bring judgment upon us for our many sins. We call evil good and good evil. For years, we have put our fists in God's face, essentially telling Him we will live any way we so choose. Such rebellion begs the wrath of the Almighty. To this point, He has been merciful and His hand has been stayed. How much longer before He brings down His judgment?</p><p>Until He does, we have time to repent. We have the opportunity to turn from our evil ways and call upon Him, asking Him to rescue our country. We need to God-sent revival. We need to Christians to take a firm stand against anything our nation supports which God does not.</p><p>To say something is LEGAL is not the same as to say it is MORAL. Yet that is what we have done for many years. I'm convicted to jot a few posts in this BLOG on this matter. I'm calling them "The Sins of America". I intend for each one to be straightforward, easy to read, and my opinion based upon my understanding of the Word of God. I'll do my best to limit my Scripture references as well as theological terminology.</p><p>So I begin with what I believe to be the greatest sin of our land: ABORTION.</p><p>It is time the debate on this subject ends. Even before 1973, it was a hot topic and has remained so for almost 50 years. But, modern technology should squash the differences in the argument. Abortion at any point of pregnancy is destroying human life. PERIOD.</p><p>If you don't believe this, just think rationally about it for a moment.</p><p>1. What is that thing in the woman? Is it a monkey? Perhaps a shark? Maybe a bird? I know, its a Martian. Someone will blurt out "it's a fetus". The only reason they use the term "fetus" is to disguise what every expecting mom calls it: "my baby". It is human life at its earliest development. It isn't long before the brain has brain waves and the heart has heartbeats. It is truly a human at its very beginning. </p><p>2. Modern microscopic pictures in the womb affirm this truth. What makes this newly conceived human different from a one-year old is only its growth. If nurtured, it, too, will be a year old soon. Quit trying to make it something it isn't (e.g., "clump of cells"; while that's true, the phrase is used to remove the "human" from the listener's ears. It is a clump of HUMAN cells, hence, it is human.).</p><p>Unfortunately, we have politicians in 2021 who are promoting not only abortion but also the killing of the newly born (infanticide). How ridiculous are the arguments in support of such practices. Every true follower of Jesus Christ should be outraged that we continue to permit and even support these horrific acts. </p><p>Immediately, I can sense the incoming arguments.</p><p>1. What about the life of the mother? Per studies, a very rare occurrence if ever.</p><p>2. What about rape or incest? Horrible crimes but the child is not at fault; the attacker is. Terminating the life of the unborn solves nothing. If the mother does not wish to raise such a child, then put them up for adoption. Abortions of babies who are the result of rape or incest are also very rare (I've never heard a number higher than 3%).</p><p>3. It is a woman's right to choose what she does with her own body. Yes, until that body is no longer JUST her own. Apart from rape or incest, the woman has means of not becoming pregnant. She can say "no" or use some form of protection. That's her right to choose. But, once the choice is made, she must accept the responsibilities associated with that choice. (You shall reap what you sow).</p><p>Abortion on demand is done for whatever reason a female wants it down. Abortion is sacrificing your child to your god. Who is your Molech? (In Israel, if a person sacrificed their child to this false deity, the person was to be put to death; Leviticus 20:1-3). Perhaps your Molech is a god of finances (you don't want to spend any money on a child). Perhaps he is a god of pleasure (you just want the sexual experience without the child). Maybe he is a god of enjoyment (how will you enjoy yourself if there is a child in the mix?). If you don't want the responsibilities of parenting, don't get pregnant. </p><p>Yes, raising a child is an impact to your financials, to your time, to you ability to be alone and enjoy certain activities, so on and so forth. Consider the cost before you act. Don't kill your child later.</p><p>I've often wondered how anyone could believe abortion is somehow a justifiable act. Pretend you are standing pregnant in the very presence of Jesus Christ. Do you honestly believe He would give you permission to slaughter that child before it is born? If so, you need to read the Gospels. And therein, I believe, is the true root of the problem. WE WANT TO BE OUR OWN GOD. We want to do whatever we want to do whenever we want to do it and not be held accountable. The one true God has no place in a life governed by such principles.</p><p>Let's repent of this sin. Christians. I call on each of us to pray for the termination of this heinous act. Let us find ways to peaceably call our nation back to God and end this practice. </p><p>I begin by calling on President Biden who claims to be devout Catholic. Your church opposes abortion. Prove your faith, sir, by your works. Do everything in your power to have abortion outlawed in our country. </p><p>Regrettably, I will not hold my breath waiting for that to happen.</p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-27025261167714138402020-10-20T11:33:00.002-05:002020-10-20T11:33:30.916-05:00The Democrats Win on November 3!<p> For a brief time, I wrote some blog entries based on statements from the 2020 Democrat National Platform. The more I read, the more ill I became. So, my blog entries on that document ended. However, over the past several weeks, my concern for our nation has only grown. The recent revelation of the Biden's illegal activities have added to that concern. Therefore, I am writing one final blog on the topic.</p><p>Pretend it is November 4th and Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris have been elected President and Vice President. Furthermore, the Democrats have increased their majority in the House and have taken the majority in the Senate. What might we expect for our nation once they take office?</p><p>Well, here is a sample of what is coming (based on what they have said or written and on the Democrat National Platform and the manifesto agreed to by the Biden and Sanders camps). Some of these are being denied by the candidates right now but they have clearly claimed their true intentions several times in the past. If they win, here is what may happen. May it NEVER BE!</p><p>1. Mr. Biden will not be our President. I want to be kind on this. Anyone who watches or listens to the Vice President speak must recognize his mental capacity is failing. Either he will sit in the Oval Office with those around him making the decisions or the 25th Amendment will be applied and Senator Harris will become President. She is the most radical Senator in the Senate. You must translate Mr. Biden's statements far left for that's where Senator Harris lives.</p><p>2. Your taxes will increase. Mr. Biden claims his tax hikes will affect only those making more than $400,000. That is NOT true. First of all, further study of his proposal implies hikes will impact those over $100,000. Also, Mr. Biden has pledged to eliminate the Trump tax cuts which have provided roughly $4000 more money to each American in their paycheck each year. If those tax cuts go, your taxes will rise. Then, Mr. Biden will add his tax increases to that amount.</p><p>3. Businesses will relocate overseas. The increased taxes and regulations proposed by Mr. Biden will, once again, drive businesses out of the country. This happened during the Obama-Biden administration and will resume with Mr. Biden. The former VP is a great friend of China!</p><p>4. Hide your guns. Both Democrat candidates have vowed to take your guns and they mean it.</p><p>5. Poorly managed Democrat states will receive bailout money from you, the taxpayer. This is what is holding up the COVID relief package. Speaker Pelosi wants that money included. If necessary, she will wait until after the election and, if Biden wins, will, some day, push it through.</p><p>6. Illegals to our country will receive free benefits. That is also on record.</p><p>7. The wall will come down and outsiders welcomed. This will force us to pay more in taxes (someone has to pay for their freebies) and loss in jobs (they will work cheaper than our citizens). Furthermore, it will increase crime in our nation.</p><p>8. Recent developments indicate the Bidens have made their millions through illegal influences, even using the office of Vice President for that purpose. What will the Bidens do if Mr. Biden is President?</p><p>9. The former VP professes to be a Catholic and Senator Harris claims to be religious. Yet, both of them deny the right to life of those who are still in the womb (or just born). The VP also claims he was raised with middle class values. I guess those include homicide, infanticide, lying, and theft.</p><p>10. 401ks and other savings plans will be hammered by the increased taxes, increased regulations, and loss of small businesses in our country.</p><p>11. Don't be surprised if the new President doesn't lock us all in our homes for another several months due to COVID, destroying our economy, destroying the lives of many, over a virus which has an extremely low mortality rate. Masks will become the newest apparel. </p><p>12. Riots, burnings, looting, and property destruction will continue. The overwhelming majority of these acts today are NOT the result of white supremacy but the actions of organizations such as Black Lives Matter and Antifa, Marxist groups supporting Mr. Biden. They will continue doing what they do until they get everything they want.</p><p>13. President Trump supporters will be required to take re-education training perhaps by a new organization known as the Ministry of Truth.</p><p>14. Free speech is gone. The media is already preventing any anti-Biden story from reaching the masses. Imagine what they will do if he is in the White House.</p><p>15. American foreign policy will be in a shambles. Over his 47-year career, Mr. Biden has made mistake upon mistake when it comes to foreign policy. The Obama administration painted America as the "bad guy" to other nations and we ended up with ISIS. President Trump has changed all of that around, brokered a peace deal in the Middle East, and has been nominated for 4 Nobel Prizes.</p><p>16. The Democrats have a message of doom and gloom and view America has a horrible country. Why do we want people with such a view to lead us?</p><p>17. The oil and fracking industry will be destroyed and we will, once again, be dependent upon foreign oil. All of the solar panels and wind farms cannot supply the amount of energy we need. Furthermore, fossil fuel is required for manufacturing those "green" methodologies. </p><p>18. The government will take over more and more, requiring the individual to be more dependent upon them than ever before.</p><p>19. Mr. Biden will expand the Supreme Court, adding several liberal justices, ensuring the court remains a policy making body from this time forward. The court is a judging body, not legislative body.</p><p>20. The Democrats will add Washington, D. C. as a state (which makes no sense) and Puerto Rico as another. It is almost guaranteed both states will elect 2 Democrat Senators. This will give the Democrats a majority on the Senate for years to come.</p><p>21. The Democrats will end the filibuster in the Senate and, thereby, taking away the voice of the minority in that body.</p><p>22. The Democrats will push through an amendment that will eliminate the electoral college. From then on, a simple majority elects our President. That means all the future candidate has to do to win is to visit the large cities and sway the voters. Given most large cities vote Democrat, the presidential elections will become meaningless. Those of us in "flyover country" have no say in the choice of our leader.</p><p>23. The false history of "1619" will be taught throughout the educational system providing propaganda for our "new direction".</p><p>24. Evangelicals, in particular, will be under attack. Even today we see this among some Democrats who believe church is "non-essential" while bars and abortion clinics are "essential". The freedom to worship will be under attack.</p><p>25. Lastly, COVID response. Mr. Biden claims he would have handles the virus better than the President. He would have listened to the science. The facts are: (1) the President shutdown travel from China and Europe. Mr. Biden called him xenophobic. So much for being earlier to the game. (2) The President mobilized industry to create make-shift hospitals and manufacture respirators, etc. This was underway while Mr. Biden was laying low. (3) The President initiated operation Warp Speed to create a vaccine as quickly as possible. The President did these actions based upon what Dr. Fauci and the CDC was telling him. Truthfully, what else would Mr. Biden have done? Nothing!</p><p>These are a few of the changes to come if Mr. Biden and the Democrats win in November. While our nation has many sins in its past, I pray the Lord Jesus will be merciful and gracious by sparing us from the above. May He grant us, at least, another four years of hope!</p><div><br /></div>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-65740773944106562502020-09-24T13:21:00.000-05:002020-09-24T13:21:18.316-05:00Why I will NOT vote for ANY Democrat - Part 4<p> My last three posts have been reasons from the Democrat National Platform for 2020 why I will not vote for any Democrat in 2020. I was going to add a fourth today (believe me, there are many reasons listed in their document), but the events in Louisville last night made me change my mind. Let's be open and honest about what is going on in our country.</p><p>1. The riots were are witnessing are just that, riots. They are not peaceful protests. Oh, they may begin that way but the bottom line is these are riots. Fires, destruction, vandalism, theft, assault, and even killing are their tools.</p><p>2. Such riots have been encouraged by the left wing in our nation over the past several months. I could provide many quotes from Democrat leaders who have encouraged such violent behavior.</p><p>3. Vice President Biden said nothing against the riots until the polls revealed he was losing ground to President Trump. Then, he spoke against violence but in doing so blamed the violence on the President's "right wing militia" (whatever that is).</p><p>4. The rioters are clearly left wing / progressive people. They do not support the President nor has the President caused such behavior. For eight years, I disagreed with virtually everything President Obama said as did many Americans but I never saw any riots. Oh, there were protests but not riots. No, this is the work of the left in an effort to divide our nation, generate hatred on our President, and assist in winning the election for Democrats.</p><p>5. The rioters frequently use the pretense of justice as the motivation for their activities ("No justice, no peace"). Such grounds are mere smoke screens. In their eyes, the only justice is for people to do what they demand. They don't study the evidence. They simply pronounce the guilt of the alleged offender and, if for any reason, that is not the returned verdict, then the verdict must be wrong. In other words, they don't want justice, they want power. They want to threaten American cities and citizens to follow their lead or face destruction. So we are led to believe, if we elect anyone but Donald Trump, the violence will end. Don't fool yourselves. The rioters will not stop until they eradicate our system of government. They are bent on a socialistic or Marxist system and, until they achieve their goal or they are stopped, there will be no end to these acts of terror. </p><p>6. People have complained that the President hasn't done enough to stop the violence. Unfortunately, his legal possibilities are limited. He cannot send in the National Guard unless the local officials request them. Kenosha did quickly and the violence ended. Minneapolis eventually did although well after the destruction. Portland, Seattle, Chicago, and New York have refused assistance. When he has sent in the National Guard, he is criticized for bringing federal soldiers into local communities. </p><p>7. These riots are well organized. There is video of bricks being left on street corners in Los Angeles and supplies being dropped off in Louisville. Some group is planning and financially supporting this activity. I pray the federal authorities are investigating this organization and will soon arrest those involved. They should be charged with sedition.</p><p>8. Do not be fooled by the media. Antifa and Black Lives Matter are Marxist organizations whose goal is to destroy our system of government. They should both be labeled domestic terrorist organizations and all of their members arrested on charges of terrorism.</p><p>The more acts of terror performed by these rioters, the more I will refuse to vote for their supporters: the Democrat National Party. I have family and friends who despise our President and intend to vote for the former VP. To be honest, there are characteristics of President Trump I do not care for and things he has said that has caused me to cringe. I did not support him in the 2016 primary because I really viewed him as a joke. But, when he won the nomination and his opponent was Secretary Clinton, I voted for him and against Hillary. </p><p>Since then I have seen a leader who has kept virtually every campaign promise he made! Never in my wildest dreams did I think a Presidential candidate would actually accomplish in office want he promised on the campaign trail. President Trump has and has won me over as a supporter. This year, I will vote for him NOT simply because Joe Biden is his opponent, NOT simply because the Democrats are far left ideologues, BUT because President Trump has turned our country around by doing what he said he would do. </p><p>When President Obama was in office, I did not recognize our country any more. President Trump has changed all that. He truly loves America, as do I, and wants to restore it to its former greatness. That's what I want as well.</p><p>My Democrat friends, vote for your people, put them into office, and kiss our country goodbye for your children and grandchildren. It is your choice. I will not vote for any Democrat because their policies will destroy our nation and their actions/words disgust me.</p><p>P.S. I did not add links to documents, pictures, and videos for some of my above claims because I just didn't want to spend the time doing so. But they are there. Oh, you may not find them on mainstream media sights but you can find them on the web. Do some pre-election homework!</p><p> </p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-39323948389839215972020-09-23T12:51:00.004-05:002020-09-23T12:51:40.255-05:00Why I Will NOT Vote for ANY Democrat - Part 3<p> Today's entry will be brief. Here I am quoting two paragraphs from page 39 under the title of "Healing the Soul of America" with a sub-header "Protecting Americans' Civil Rights".</p><p><b>Democrats are committed to ending discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, language, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability status. We will appoint Supreme Court justices and federal judges who look like America, are committed to the rule of law, will uphold individual civil rights and civil liberties as essential components of a free and democratic society, and will respect and enforce foundational precedents, including <i>Brown v. Board of Education and Roe v. Wade</i>. Democrats are committed to restoring the full power of the Voting Rights Act and ensuring every citizen can access the ballot box. We will enforce and strengthen the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, and will end racial and religious profiling in law enforcement.</b></p><p><b>President Trump's words and actions have given safe harbor and encouragement to racists, anti-Semites, anti-Muslin bigots, and white supremacists. It's time to root out domestic terrorism in all its forms. We will use federal law enforcement tools and resources to address domestic terrorism, and if necessary work with Congress to pass a domestic terrorism law that is consistent with the Constitutional right to free speech and civil liberties.</b></p><p>Here are some of the issues I have with Democrats on these paragraphs.</p><p>1. The second sentence of the opening paragraph provides the list of qualifications for a Supreme Court Justice from a Democrat perspective. Note the absence of the Constitution of the United States. They do not want originalists on the court, rather, liberal activists who could care less what the Constitution actually says. </p><p>2. Note, also, among the list of Supreme Court qualifications the specific reference to Roe v. Wade. In other words, if the nominee has anything in their background which might result in the reversal of that case, they are unqualified. I suspect simply being nominated by President Trump will classify as something in their background. Supreme Court decisions have been reversed in the past (see the Dred Scott decision that I mentioned in yesterday's post for example). No justice can ever say they will or won't reverse a previous court decision including an activist judge since the justice must judge each case on its own merits. This is not true for the Democrats when it comes to "abortion rights". </p><p>3. I love this phrase from the first paragraph: "We will appoint Supreme Court justices and federal judges who look like America". The justices must look like America? What does that mean? Of course they must be American citizens. How do you look like America? Ah, they want our justice system diverse. Do they want quotas on the justices? So many white, so many black, so many Latino, so many male, so many female? Instead of finding "diverse" justices, we need the BEST justices we can find no matter what their color, gender, race, or religion might be.</p><p>4. Per their first sentence, they are against all discrimination including those of a religious nature. Yet, depending on which candidate President Trump appoints, they will attack that nominee's faith. The Democrats are wonderful hypocrites. </p><p>5. Democrats claim they will ensure every citizen can access the ballot box. Is that not the case today? In fact, news articles in recent days have revealed there are folks who have been accessing the ballot box multiple times in one day and voting for Democrats more than once. Are Democrats saying they want felons to vote? Do they count illegal aliens as citizens? Which citizens do not have access to the ballot box? Providing each CITIZEN with a voting id card would give every citizen access to vote plus ensure no one votes multiple times. Yet Democrats always oppose voter id. Why? They demand I have an id to drive, an id to board an aircraft, but no id to vote. Their alternative is to push for mail-in unsolicited, uncertified ballots to everyone they can find. That's not helping everyone vote; its helping promote fraud.</p><p>6. The opening sentence of the second paragraph is simply not true. Those who are causing riots in American cities are not President Trump supporters. They are left wing anarchists, partially supported by Democrats including Democrats on Vice President Joe Biden's campaign staff. Antifa and BLM are domestic terrorists yet I never hear a Democrat condemn any of them. If the Democrats are so against domestic terrorism, why don't they speak against it (note last sentence of the second paragraph above)? Just last evening, I watched a political ad from the Biden campaign. VP Biden spoke against arson and theft in these riots (finally). But then he turned around and implied it was President Trump's "right wing militia" behind all of this. Everyone in this country know that is not true (see <a href="http://captivetothewordofgod.blogspot.com/2020/09/why-i-will-not-vote-for-any-democrat.html" target="_blank">part 1</a>).</p><p>The bottom line is that Democrats claim they are protecting Americans' Civil Rights while doing exactly the opposite. They only want ideological left justices, illegal voting, and left wing terrorist activities. Electing Democrats will destroy the very fabric of our nation.</p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-21766533838669493082020-09-22T12:34:00.000-05:002020-09-22T12:34:10.213-05:00Why I Will NOT Vote for ANY Democrat - Part 2<p> </p><p>My first article was a brief look at a couple of sentences in the 2020 Democratic National Platform's preamble. You could spend days critiquing everything in that section. Most of what I read in their introduction is either a lie or misleading statement. So, I have decided to move into specific topics listed by the platform statement.</p><p><b>Like the majority of Americans, Democrats believe every woman should be able to access high-quality reproductive health care services, including safe and legal abortion. We oppose and will fight to overturn federal and state laws that create barriers to women’s reproductive health and rights, including by repealing the Hyde Amendment and protecting and codifying the right to reproductive freedom. </b> (page 42)</p><p>Personally, that one paragraph eliminates my vote for any Democrat until they change their position. If you have so little respect for life that you support and promote the killing of the unborn child, then you will have little respect for anyone's life.</p><p>In 1973, the Supreme Court ruled that a woman had a right to an abortion and that right was implicit in the right to privacy section of the 14th Amendment. So, many claim abortion is ok because it has been pronounced legal. Of course, legality is not the same as morality. </p><p>In 1857, the United States Supreme Court rule that slaves were not citizens of the United States and had no rights which white men were bound to respect. The court was wrong. Virtually all Americans today would agree that such a decision was a farce. When it comes to race, slavery is long gone in our nation.</p><p>Since 1973, medical science has taken leaps in advancement. Expectant mothers can see images of their child within weeks of conception. They can watch the unborn move in their womb and suck their thumb. The gender can be determined early in the pregnancy. The unborn's beating heart may be heard as soon as six weeks after conception. Some women may not even realize they are pregnant until they hear the heartbeat in a doctor's office.</p><p>If that image on the ultrasound, if that movement witnessed in the womb, if that heart that is beating inside the woman is not a child, what is it? A Martian?! Since most abortions are performed well after six weeks of pregnancy, such abortions are taking the life of an unborn child. It is homicide not reproductive right. While it may be legal, it is not moral.</p><p>The old adage "It's my body, my choice" usually appears about now and I agree. You may exercise your reproductive freedom as you choose. However, once you use your freedom and participate in the reproductive act, you must be ready to accept the RESPONSIBILITIES of reproduction! That's what the act is! You have the freedom to have sex. You don't have freedom to take another's life.</p><p>About now the pro-murder advocate will question me about pregnancies resulting from rape or incest. In those cases, the woman was denied the freedom to say no to the act. My personal take is that, while the offender in such cases should be severely punished, the victims (mother and child) should not. However, statistics indicate abortions performed for these reasons are less than 5% (I've heard the percentage listed as low as less than 1%). The overwhelming majority of abortions are performed for convenience. </p><p>I have written elsewhere about abortion so this is enough for now (1). The bottom line: abortion is the killing of an unborn child. It is homicide. It is immoral. It should be illegal.</p><p>Since the Democrats fully support the practice, I will NEVER vote for any Democrat no matter for which office they are running. </p><p><b>Exodus 21:22-23: When men strive together and hit a pregnant woman, so that her children come out, but there is no harm, the one who hit her shall surely be fined as the woman's husband shall impose on him, and he shall pay as the judges determine. But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life.</b></p><p>(1) Here are some of my blog entries: <span style="color: #274e13;">(<a href="http://captivetothewordofgod.blogspot.com/2008/11/following-christ-and-killing-our-babies.html" target="_blank">article 1</a>), (<a href="http://captivetothewordofgod.blogspot.com/2008/11/following-christ-and-killing-our-babies.html " target="_blank">article 2</a>), (<a href="http://captivetothewordofgod.blogspot.com/2008/12/following-christ-and-killing-our-babies.html" target="_blank">article 3</a>), (<a href="http://captivetothewordofgod.blogspot.com/2009/03/following-christ-and-killing-our-babies.html" target="_blank">article 4</a>)</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-75838321733555135212020-09-21T18:37:00.000-05:002020-09-21T18:37:36.564-05:00Why I Will NOT Vote for ANY Democrat - Part 1<p> Since the election of President Trump, the Democrats and virtually all the media have tried everything to remove him from office. Of course, nothing has been successful. Their hope now rests with former Vice President Joe Biden and they are going to all lengths to make that hope a reality.</p><p>There is much I could write about our former VP. But, instead, I have decided to pen a few blog entries (yes, I still have a blog! Haven't been very discipline with it.) calling attention to the reasons why I cannot and will not vote for ANY Democrat in 2020 (and likely into the future). My entries will focus on sections of the 2020 Democratic National Platform, not on individual candidates or news events. I acknowledge not each and every Democrat holds to every position in the platform, but reality is every Democrat will support Democrat legislative proposals even in areas of disagreement.</p><p>With that said, let me begin. The following section is a quote from the platform preamble.</p><p><b>The challenges before us—the worst public health crisis in a century, the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, the worst period of global upheaval in a generation, the urgent global crisis posed by climate change, the intolerable racial injustice that still stains the fabric of our nation—will test America’s character like never before.</b></p><p>These few statements are completely misleading. The worst public health crisis in a century is not the result of the present administration. The crisis has come about via a virus from China. A simple reading of what happened in January and February reveal the President took quick steps to stop travel from China and Europe. In doing so, he was called xenophobic (among many things) by several Democrats (e.g., Joe Biden, Nancy Pelosi). These same Democrats didn't say much about the virus for months while the President acted in January. Yes, it's a terrible health crisis. But no one, at least in the administration, is responsible for it. </p><p>Some will say we weren't prepared. We lacked equipment. And that's true. No one anticipated a pandemic this year. However, the unavailability of equipment can be traced back to the cuts by the Obama-Biden administration.</p><p>I've heard some say the release of the virus was a plot by the Democrats to crash the economy and give them something to use in their efforts to remove the President. Personally, I don't believe it. Maybe I'm naive, but I will give them the benefit of the doubt. Nevertheless, while I can't blame it on the Democrats, neither can they paint the picture that the blame lies with the President. And that's exactly what they are claiming in the above statement. If THEY were in charge, this would have NEVER happened! HOGWASH! The death counts would have been higher because the Democrats ignore the virus for at least two months!</p><p>Of course, the "worst economic downturn since the Great Depression" followed. That's what happens when the scientists (remember, we must believe the science) recommend the President locked down everything. He followed the science! The end result: the economy tanks. What else can the economy do? Again, the statement above leads one to the impression that such a downturn would have never happened under the Democrats. NONSENSE. This is not the fault of the Republicans; it is a result of the virus. It makes not difference which party is in the majority.</p><p>Let us also remember that prior to the virus, our economy was booming like no other time in history. Unemployment was at historic lows, median income at all time highs, the stock market climbing and climbing. Why? Our growth was NOT the result of the Democrats, although their preamble sentence gives the impression the economy would grow greatly with them in charge. The growth is because of the President's economic policies. He, and the GOP, cut taxes, cut regulations, and BOOM! In less than four years, our economy went from dismal (under Democrat rule) to fantastic!</p><p>Furthermore, while the virus drove down the economy and raised unemployment, the President's policies are, once more, restoring that fallen economy to its record levels. Unemployment is dropping and income is rising once again. </p><p>Climate change remains on the Democrat platform. They talk and act as though every scientist in the world accepts climate change as a reality. Well, yes, the climate changes all the time. But the evidence that humans are the cause of this change and that the world is doomed in twelve yes (per Rep. AOC) is very much lacking. Furthermore, the most outspoken supporters of the "doom" climate change hypothesis seem to be the ones who own and operate multiple homes and private jets. Why do those who scream that "the end is near" because of our impact on the climate and that the sea levels are going to rise and flood the coasts buy homes on the ocean fronts? Until there is concrete proof of climate change, it is improper to make such a claim. </p><p>Such misleading statements are commonplace from the Democrats. I know there are many people who hate the President. But, if you listen to what he promised to do if elected back in 2016, he has accomplished or is accomplishing almost everything he set out to do. He said it, he's doing it. Never in my seventy years on this earth has any President fulfilled as many of his campaign promises as has President Trump. He says things I do not like and he says things sometimes in ways I don't like. But, when he says he's going to do something, he does it. </p><p>That has not been my experience with the Democrats. They say one thing to one group and something else to the other. For example, candidate Biden early on "under a Biden administration, there will be no fracking". Nominee Biden recently claimed he will not banish all fracking (while he spoke to a Pennsylvania audience, by the way). Behind the scenes, AOC claims, if Biden is elected, the progressives will push him left meaning no fracking. I can't believe what they say.</p><p>The President promises and delivers. The Democrats make misleading statements like the one above, say one thing to one group and another to another group, and seem more concerned with their power than with their service. </p><p>Too many lies (spoken or implied) flow from their lips. </p><p><b><span style="color: #800180;">Psalm 7:14 - "Behold, the wicked man conceives evil and is pregnant with mischief and gives birth to lies.</span></b></p><p><br /></p>TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-64990967199756638332019-09-10T11:49:00.000-05:002019-09-10T11:49:36.958-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:15) - Good News!<br />
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<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">15 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b> Behold, upon the mountains, the
feet of him</b></span></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> who brings good news,</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> who publishes peace!</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;">Keep your feasts, O Judah;</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> fulfill your vows,</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;">for never again shall the worthless pass through you;</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> he is utterly cut off.</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There
is a hospital in our area where committed medical personnel treat children who
have various forms of cancer and other diseases. Happily, there are many cases when
a child is cured of the ailment by God’s hand through this wonderful staff. On
such an occasion, the staff throws the child a party and the child rings a bell
announcing the deliverance they now have over their life-threatening illness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What
great news this is especially to those in bondage to some disease! Surely such
a pronouncement is worthy of celebration. Who among us would not also rejoice
over such great news?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That
is what we have in verse 15 (chapter 2, verse 1 in the Hebrew Bible). Nahum has
repeatedly pronounced the coming judgment upon Nineveh and the Assyrians. For
centuries, this evil empire has dominated the middle east bringing destruction
to many and hopelessness to others. The northern kingdom of Israel was
overthrown by them. They also held sway over the southern kingdom of Judah as a
constant threat of their destruction as well. But now, God, through His
prophet, has announced that is about to end!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
verse begins with words almost identical to those found in Isaiah 42:7 (we aren’t
sure who wrote them first). Essentially, these two verses say the same thing: a
messenger has appeared on the mountains surrounding Judah and that messenger
announces the “good news” that the enemy of Judah has been defeated and the
people have been delivered from their bondage. Peace has come. Ring the bell!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
terrific news of peace is followed by two commands: “keep your feasts” and “fulfill
your vows”. The first is likely a reference to three annual feasts of Israel:
Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. Passover is a remembrance and celebration
of God’s deliverance of the Hebrew people from their bondage to Egypt.
Pentecost is a celebration of the newness of life given to God’s redeemed. Tabernacles
celebrates the continual abundance of God’s provision for His people. With the defeat
of the enemy, Judah may celebrate!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Fulfill
your vows” is a reminder to the people to fulfill the commitments they have
made to God. To turn from your vow would be sin. In other words, Judah must
consecrate themselves to serve and obey God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Why
should they celebrate? Why should they consecrate? “For never again shall the
worthless pass through you; he is utterly cut off.” Your enemy is through. Your
slave master has been forever defeated! Assyria will never again trouble Judah!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But
this verse not only provides good news for Judah and the Old Covenant people.
It also provides good news for the Church and the New Covenant people of God.
Paul quotes the similar verse from Isaiah in Romans 10:15 and interprets it has
the good news proclaimed by Gospel preachers. What great news such ministers deliver!
Ring the bell! We are sinners in bondage to sin and Satan. But Christ has
provided the deliverance from our sin and the devil. That’s good news! So, what
should we do?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">First,
let us celebrate our deliverance! Let us celebrate with the Lord’s Supper, the
New Covenant counterpart to Passover. Let us celebrate the coming and
indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the counterpart to Pentecost. Let us celebrate
the daily provision of our Lord until He comes, the counterpart to Tabernacles.
Celebrate your deliverance, believer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Second,
let us consecrate our lives to serve and obey our Deliverer. What God commands
us, let us do gladly. He has given us freedom and brought us peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And,
just like Assyria, the enemy of God’s people Judah, would never defeat and
control Judah again, Satan/sin will never defeat and control us again! God will
preserve His people and protect them until the day He comes! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Celebrate!
Consecrate! Ring the bell for deliverance provided by God’s Son the Lord Jesus
Christ has arrived!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Have
you been delivered? Have you repented of your sins and put your trust in Christ
for the keeping of your soul? The message has arrived. Have you received it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-39027449630966418882019-09-09T13:13:00.000-05:002019-09-09T13:13:24.921-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum: 1:14) - You Will be Cut Off<br />
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<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">14 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>The <span style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span> has
given commandment about you:</b></span></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> “No more shall your name be perpetuated;</b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;">from the house of your gods I will cut off</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> the carved image and the metal image.</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 14pt;">I will make your grave, for you are vile.”</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Perhaps
I have unfairly judged certain individuals I have encountered over the years,
but I must confess there have been a few people with whom I avoid every
possible association. Over time I have found these specific people to by liars
who can never be trusted. Often their worldview is completely opposite, and
they are so rigid in that worldview they refuse to listen to any argument you
might present against it. They worship their jobs, money, fame, or others and
they tend to promote themselves rather than help those in need. I have no desire
to be their friend or to associate with them. To me, I have cut them off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">After
pronouncing judgment upon Nineveh/Assyria, Nahum now quotes Yahweh on the
matter. It is the LORD who has charged you, not merely a man or a prophet. And,
unlike man, the Lord’s judgment of every individual is just and righteous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What
is that charge he brings against the Assyrian empire? “No more shall your name be
perpetuated”. Literally, “God will no longer sow from your seed.” Assyria has
been a might kingdom and Nineveh a mighty capital. But no more. The name of
Assyria will be forgotten, not feared. For us today, that is so true. Apart
from a study of history, Assyria has vanished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
Assyrians were religious people. The empire was a religious empire. They didn’t
have just one god but many (which violates the first commandment). They didn’t
worship they god in spirit and in truth but with graven images and idols (which
violates the second commandment). And, of course, worship of any god other than
Yahweh is false worship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Being
a religious person/nation is irrelevant if that religion is not true religion.
Yahweh demands we worship Him. He is the one true God. And, like the Assyrians,
if you have other “things” in your life more important than Yahweh, you have
broken the first commandment. At some point, you will be “cut off” from your
false gods. If its your job, you’ll lose it. If its your money, you’ll lose it.
False gods are of no valuable once death overtakes you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">God
tells the Assyrians they are “vile” (or contemptible). So is anyone who worships
false gods with their false religion. There is only one name given among men
whereby we must be saved, the name Jesus Christ. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
your religion is not centered on Christ, you will be cut off. If your worship is
not directed to Christ, you will be cut off. Nineveh and Assyria are a lesson
to us. Do not place your faith and hope in the wrong place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Trust
Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-73626399883101345132019-09-06T12:07:00.000-05:002019-09-06T12:07:25.184-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:12-13) - Breaking Yokes, Bursting Bonds<br />
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<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">12 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Thus says the <span style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>,</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;">“Though they are at full strength and many,</b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> they will be cut down and pass away.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;">Though I have afflicted you,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> I will afflict you no more.</b></div>
<sup><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"><sup>13 </sup>And now I will break his yoke from off you</b></div>
</sup><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> and will burst your bonds apart.”</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Often
we feel as though we are slaves of others. Individuals working for an
unreasonable employer has that sense. Students in a class taught by a fearful
instructor also has the sense. People living under the political rule of a corrupt
monarchy are in a similar position. Each of us, at one time or another and to
one degree or another, feel as though we are slaves of someone or something. We
long for freedom from our bondage and judgment against our oppressor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Assyria
has been a powerful nation in the Middle East for some time. They have fought
against the Hebrews, defeated the northern Kingdom of Israel, and scattered
many of them across their empire. Even at the time of Nahum’s prophecy, they
were a great, powerful nation, full of strength, with no end in sight. No end
except that foretold by Nahum in this proclamation against the Assyrian capital
city of Nineveh. Assyria, though powerful and many, will be cut down. They will
pass away. And, indeed, this came true.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now
Yahweh enters the picture for the first and only time in the prophecy: “Thus
says Yahweh”. The creator, sovereign ruler of the universe confirms the words
of His prophet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
Lord had used the Assyrians to afflict His people just as He had used the
Egyptians during the time of Moses. Israel had sinned against Him with their
idol worship and God’s punishment was provided through the Assyrians. Now God
assures His people this affliction has come to an end. No more will the
Assyrians be His instrument for disciplining His people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And,
by defeating this powerful nation, Yahweh breaks the bondage of His people
(including those in the southern Kingdom) and has set them free. God and God
alone delivers them from their servitude.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You
are I are also in bondage and under affliction due to sin. We are captives of
our nature and our own disobedience. We are slaves to sin. Sin must be punished,
and it will be. God will judge and punish the sinner with eternal judgment and
that judgment will place Him in Hell forever. Unless God delivers you from your
sin, this is your fate. You will forever be sin’s slave.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jesus
Christ lived without sin and sacrificed His life to ransom those whom God had
given to Him. In a sense, God has defeated the enemy (sin) and we can escape
eternal affliction by trusting Christ. Will you turn from your sin today and
trust the Lord for the salvation of your soul?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
you will then God will deliver you. He will break the yoke and burst the bonds
of sin just as He delivered His people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-55424044236596177442019-09-06T11:25:00.000-05:002019-09-06T11:25:45.864-05:00"Scripture and Cosmology" by Kyle GreenwoodMy review of "Scripture and Cosmology" by Kyle Greenwood may be found <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2929253838"><span style="color: white;">here</span></a>.<br />
<br />
Bottom line: Find another book on the subject.<br />
<br />
<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-22682240588890049902019-09-05T11:12:00.000-05:002019-09-05T11:12:14.822-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:11) - Worthless Counselors<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">11 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>From you came one</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> who plotted evil against the <span style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>,</b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> a worthless counselor.</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Can
there be anything worse than a “worthless counselor”? Something you are have
seen or heard or experienced has greatly disturbed you. Why has this happened?
What should I do? How do I handle it? You need some help, some guidance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">So,
you find someone who professes to be a counselor to assist you in sorting out
these disturbances in your life. However, your advisor leads you down the wrong
path. He gives you a bad interpretation of your situation. You gladly accept
his counsel only to find out (much later!), his advice has only created more
turmoil for your life. Now, you are worse off than you were.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What
a horrible thought! Yet, this happens all the time in our society. People are
confused and/or disturbed. They are running to their relatives, friends, government
officials, or therapists for help. But, what they receive does nothing to
resolve their problems. In fact, their counsel only makes things worse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Perhaps
something similar happened in Nineveh. Destruction is coming, cries the prophet
of God. What do we do? How should we live? Some “wicked advisor” (perhaps the
king?) appears and offers counsel. However, his counsel is against God’s
counsel. His advice is merely an evil rebellion of God’s advice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Being
quite literal, the translation of this one verse would read something like
this: “From you one comes out thinking against YAHWEH evil, one advising
wickedness.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Is
this not our society today?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’m
single and pregnant. What should I do?” Our “counselors” tell us “Get an
abortion”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’m
a woman who loves another woman. What should I do?” “Accept your sexuality.
Enjoy your partner. If possible, get married.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“My
parents want me to go to church. But the church is full of hypocrites. What
should I do?” “Your parents are from another time and just don’t understand. If
you want to hear a preacher, just turn on the TV and listen from home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’m
a woman trapped in a man’s body. What should I do?” “Take any and all steps you
need to take in order to live your life as you wish to live it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’m
so bored and depressed with life. I’m useless. What do I do?” “Here are some
pills that will help you cope.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’m
in love with a woman who is not my wife. What should I do?” “Divorce your
present wife so your life can be happy living with your new love.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On
and on it goes in twenty-first century America. Counselors are everywhere offering
advice that contradicts the counsel of God. Anyone who offers such counsel is
plotting evil against the one true God. They are a worthless counselor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Have
you pursued the wicked counsel of such counselors? Are you listening to society’s
advice instead of God’s? The Word of the Lord provides us with the wisdom and
guidance we need to live this life. Why seek advice from those who oppose the
Lord? Where is the wisdom in such behavior?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">God
has revealed that each of us is a sinner. We stand condemned in our rebellion
against God. Judgment is coming upon us as it did upon Nineveh. We cannot
escape that judgment. Heeding the counsel of the wicked will not alter that
fact. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But
Jesus Christ can change your future! Repent of your sins (turn from them) and
trust Jesus and you will be spared from future judgment. Study God’s Word and
strive to live your life daily for Christ. God has the solutions for our
problems.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And
leave the godless counselors behind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-57227661876344197012019-09-04T10:50:00.000-05:002019-09-04T10:50:58.792-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:10) - Thorns, Drunkards, Stubble<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">10 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>For they are like entangled thorns,</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> like drunkards as they drink;</b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> they are consumed like stubble fully dried.</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Practical
jokes were a common feature of college life. This was especially true for those
of us living in the dorms. Our dorm-mates, including our roommates, were
constantly plotting harmless pranks against one another. You see, you wanted to
pull off the prank but have some way to give yourself an alibi. This way, you
could repeat the prank at various times without your victim knowing who was
responsible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thus,
it is with schemers. Some in Nineveh were developing the plans against Yahweh.
When His judgment fell, they believed they would, somehow, deceive the Lord and
not receive the punishment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Nahum
disagrees. They will not escape. To prove his point, he describes such plotters
using three illustrations of such individuals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">First,
they are “entangled thorns”. Such thorns are sharp and painful on all sides. No
matter how you grab them, they hurt. The contrivers are like that. They are
evil, wicked, angry, furious, outspoken at ever turn. Every characteristic of
their behavior is like that of a thorn. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Second,
they are “drinking drunkards”. A drunkard has already lost all self-control.
They can’t even walk across a room in a straight line. Furthermore, they are
oblivious to their surroundings. And those in Nineveh devising their plans
against the Lord have not only lost self-control and awareness, they continue
to drink!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lastly,
they are fully dried stubble. Such matter catches fire quickly and burns
completely. It will be fully consumed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To
believe you can escape the Lord’s judgment by some ill-devised plan is
foolishness. You may be as wicked (or even more so) than the entangled thorns
of the Assyrians, yet you will be consumed. You may have lost all self-control
and awareness of your eternal state, but that will not excuse you on that last
day. Your thorns and your drunken stupor place you in the condition of fully
dried stubble. When God’s judgment falls, you will be consumed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some
of us are like those in Nineveh. We live our lives every day, oblivious to God
and His Word. We do what we want to do and, at times, are aware what we do is
wrong or even wicked. Each of us is like a ball of entangled thorns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">From
day to day, we stumble through life as though we are drinking drunkards. We are
unaware of God, His Word, and His coming judgment. We have lost all
self-control and the ability to change our behavior and our future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
we would look at our lives from God’s perspective, we would see ourselves as
fully dried stubble. All that awaits our consummation is a match! That match,
God’s fire, is coming. We will burn. We will be punished. We will be destroyed
throughout eternity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Praise
God, He has provided us with a way out! Jesus has lived and died for sinners.
He has borne the punishment for every sin committed by those given to Him by
the Father. Now, He calls on us to repent (turn from our wicked ways) and
believe (trust) in Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Will
you call upon Jesus this day?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-33761185533323354312019-09-03T14:13:00.000-05:002019-09-03T14:13:46.562-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:9) - Provoking the Lord<br />
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<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">9 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>What do you plot against the <span style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>?</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> He will make a complete end;</b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> trouble will not rise up a second time.</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Most
of us who have reached adulthood can recall specific individuals who, in one
form or another, plotted against another and go away with it. Perhaps it was a
classmate who wanted to skip class, so they made up an excuse about being sick
or a dying grandmother. Or maybe that classmate failed to study for an exam and
came up with the idea of sneaking in a cheat sheet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maybe
we knew of a friend who was given a traffic ticket, took it to court, and used
some lame excuse to have the ticket reduced or even dismissed. Maybe it was a
more serious matter such as a friend to whom we provided an excuse for their
extra marital activities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Man
enjoys devising schemes to enable them to sin and get away with it. Some men
become so good at it that their entire life is a lie consisting of such plots. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
warning has been given to Nineveh for their sin. But there are probably some
who are already plotting some excuse for their behavior. They are devising a
scheme in order to fool their accuser. Nahum asks the rhetorical question,
“What do you plot against the Lord?” “Plot” or “contrive” indicates their
intent. They might get away with such schemes when standing before men. But do
they really think they can devise some plot against YAHWEH?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
how many of us are already plotting our schemes for escaping that final
judgment to be given by our God? We have sinned and realize punishment awaits
us. But, we are fast talkers, we are clever cheaters, we can get away with
anything. True, if we are fast talking or cleverly cheating another man.
However, do you honestly believe you will escape the God of the universe? What
a fool you are if you truly believe that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Nahum,
for a second time, says, “He will make a complete end.” Observe two clear
revealed truths in this phrase. First, “complete end” is “destruction”. Nineveh
is the capital of the great Assyrian empire which conquered the entire Middle
East. But their destruction is certain. Second, it is “He”, Yahweh, who will
bring that destruction. No, Nineveh, you can’t fast talk this God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Well,
if I can scheme against God, I still have hope. Remember, God is a good God, a
kind God, a merciful God. Perhaps, as He did in the days of Jonah, He will
provide a stay of execution.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Trouble
will not rise up a second time.” No, there time has come and gone. The extent
of God’s patience towards Nineveh and Assyria has reached its limit. There will
be no reprieve, only destruction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make
no mistake, reader, your end has been foretold by God. If you are a sinner, your
end is your eternal destruction. Perhaps God will be patient with you and
provide you another opportunity. Perhaps not. As the writer says, “Today is the
day of salvation.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Do
not scheme against God. It will not save you. Turn to Christ while the opportunity
remains.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-35474150997464588972019-08-30T11:12:00.000-05:002019-08-30T11:12:25.736-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:8) - Good News, Bad News<br />
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<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">8 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b> But with an
overflowing flood</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;">he will make a complete end of the adversaries, </b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> and will pursue his enemies into darkness.</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’ve
got good news and bad news.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
suspect most of us, at one time or another, has heard this statement. The
speaker is preparing us for some bad news yet wants to do so in a more pleasant
manner. So, first they share something good and positive: anything! Then we receive
the bad news.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In
verse 7, Nahum informs his readers of the goodness of Yahweh. He is our
fortress of solitude in the time of trouble. And, for the listener in Nineveh,
Nahum’s words in verses 1-6 sure sound like trouble! How good verse 7 must have
sounded to those just threatened for destruction. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now,
however, Nahum delivers the bad news. Verse 7 is for those who are trusting
God, for His people. For those in Nineveh, “an overflowing flood” is coming. Of
course, a flood is already an overflow of water. So, to have an “overflowing
flood” is to have a catastrophic flood! For those of us in Missouri, it reminds
us of the 500-year flood of 1993!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
flood will bring the “complete end” (destruction) of the Lord’s adversaries
(i.e., Nineveh and the Assyrians). The flood bringing this destruction is not
likely a physical flood. Rather, it is a flood of armies. Over a century
before, Isaiah had used similar words to describe the Assyrians overrunning
Israel. Now, they will be overrun by invaders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">God
will not allow his enemies to go unpunished. Nahum predicts He will follow them
into darkness. He doesn’t simply mean a place without light. Darkness is
isolation, fear, stress, mourning, perplexing, even terror! The Bible reveals
the enemies of God will be cast into eternal darkness, the very fire of Hell.
The flames will punish the flesh; the darkness will punish the soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Woe
to those who are His adversaries! The Lord is good to those who take refuge in
Him. But, to those who are His enemies, He is an overwhelming flood, bringing
total darkness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Which
one are you? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4363128321305256750.post-29075937213773661752019-08-29T09:56:00.000-05:002019-08-29T09:56:50.410-05:00Nahum: A Prophet of Doom (Nahum 1:7) - The LORD is Good<br />
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<b><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">7 </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>The <span style="font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span> is
good,</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;"> a stronghold in the day of trouble;</b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 14pt;">he knows those who take refuge in him.</b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When
a parent disciplines a child, the form of punishment is not what causes the
deepest pain in the recipient. Rather, it is the knowledge that your parent is
the one executing the discipline. The person to whom you are the closest, who
loves you the most of anyone on the earth, is punishing you. At such a moment,
you may believe your mother or father is the most wicked person who has ever
lived. But, after the discipline has been given, you see the big picture. You
remember the true nature of your parent, the depths of their love for you, the
desire of wanting the best for you. Furthermore, you understand the discipline
you just received is to help you understand a bad choice you have made, and,
hopefully, to divert you from making similar mistakes in the future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Nahum
has emphasized the approaching judgment coming upon Nineveh by the God who
granted their ancestors a reprieve. It would be quite easy to assume that our
God is a vindictive, harsh judge who cares little for those under His rule. But
Nahum now assures his readers that is not the case. For Yahweh, the covenant
God of Israel, is “good”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">His
discipline is for correction and prevention. His punishment is satisfaction for
His justice. Our God, by nature, is a “good” God, not wicked. He is not
vindictive, only just.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Furthermore,
God is a “stronghold in the day of trouble”. “Stronghold” refers to a fortress.
When I hear that word, my thoughts run to the hymn “A Mighty Fortress is Our
God”. In God, we find security. In God is our hope. The “day of trouble” may be
any day or every day. Nevertheless, our God is good and there is safety in Him
for those who flee to Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“He
knows those who take refuge in Him”. He KNOWS means not only He intellectually
knows them, but that He also loves them and cares for them. And the ones whom
He knows, loves, and cares for are those taking “refuge” in Him. Literally, it
is those who are trusting in Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When
Jonah proclaimed judgment upon Nineveh for their sin, the citizens of the
trusted God and fled to His side. He protected them by not executing punishment
at that time. But now their descendants find themselves once more engaged in
sinful acts. Judgment is coming this time. There will be no reprieve.
Punishment comes not because our God is evil but because He is good. The wicked
will be destroyed. For those who trust in Him, He provides them safety and
love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-language: HE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Will
you flee to God by trusting Christ for your salvation? If so, then you will
discover God is good and a fortress for those who trust Him. If not, you will
receive the punishment your sin deserves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />TheSaxonHushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02594072216562518575noreply@blogger.com0