TV Yesterday and Today

As I was reading some news articles online this morning in the background the TV was on. An old episode of the Andy Griffith Show was showing, and Christmas was the theme. The episode was a take on Charles Dickens "A Christmas Story" with local shopkeeper Ben playing the part of Scrooge. Now, I've probably seen every episode of the Andy Griffith Show 30 times, including this one. But something stood out this morning that gave me great joy. As the people were gathering to celebrate Christmas Andy and his gal Ellie sang a beautiful rendition of "Away in a Manger" proudly proclaiming and using the name of Jesus. Even crotchety old Ben joined in. In this episode Jesus was the center of the celebration. Their was no thought of the name of Jesus offending someone and His name was shown great respect. What a difference between TV yesterday and today.

On network or cable TV using the name Jesus today in it's proper, respectful context is almost unheard of. When Jesus's name is uttered today, rare as that is, in a formal, scripted show, it most often is used in vain or in the context of mocking our Lord or Christians. Compare this to the treatment of the name of Mohamed and Islam by mainstream TV.

Recently on the show South Park, a show that is the antithesis of the family oriented show from Mayberry, the prophet Mohamed and Islam were mocked as part of the show. Now I don't watch South Park but a media firestorm has erupted over this episode, so it's easy to follow the reaction of those who believe it's wrong to mock the so-called prophet of Islam. A jihadist Islamic website basically endorsed physical harm for the producers of South Park. The media, even someone like Bill O'Reilly, said it was not a wise move by the show. Why? Because many of those who follow Islam believe that any depiction of Mohamed is sacrilege and deserving of judgment and death. This happened a few years ago in Europe when a newspaper cartoon depicting Mohamed resulted in the death of the one who drew it, and the producer of a movie on Islam met the same fate. Jesus is regularly mocked on South Park, as are most other religions, but the network that airs South Park has no problem with that. However they've pulled the episode regarding Mohamed. Why? They do not wish to offend, never mind that South Park may be the most offensive show on TV.

The Andy Griffith Show, believe it or not, is 50 years old now. It's amazing to notice the differences in our culture today as compared to then. On the AGS, church and God were a regular theme. Sunday was honored as a day dedicated to God. The name of Jesus was revered. Compare that to today. It should come as no surprise to us that the name of Jesus is now considered offensive, not because Christians will retaliate, but because His declaration that "none shall come to the Father" except through Him is. It's not politically correct to declare Jesus as God, as our nation has for most of it's history. In fact, Christianity and Jesus are regularly a target of ridicule, mocking and disrespect. God forbid that Mohamed receive the same treatment as Jesus though. Isaiah wrote in Isaiah 53:3 that Jesus "is despised and rejected by men." Never has that been more true than today.

I live in a small town that is very Mayberry-esque. Chesterfield has a quaint, historic downtown and the people are generally Christian and friendly. Yet even here controversy has broken out because a group of local ministers wished to have a week dedicated to Jesus by the county council. Across the nation the "National Day of Prayer" has become a target and Franklin Graham is under attack by the military and Islam because he dares to declare the biblical truth about Islam.

I often wonder what it must have been like to live when the name of Jesus was honored and respected in America, a time when God and country were still held in the right perspective and order. The TV of today is simply a microcosm of our society at large. Jesus is no longer God, but a prop for humor and mocking. He is no longer the Savior of the world, but one of many gods. His name is an open target, while false gods are elevated above Him. Both TV and our world have changed dramatically. Thank God for TV Land and Nick at Night, so we can still get a glimpse of what the United States used to be like, a nation that honored God and cherished Jesus. Keep on singing Andy and Ellie, and you too Ben, our nation needs Mayberry now more than ever.

Does Love Override Sound Doctrine?

Recently self proclaimed Christian singer Jennifer Knapp declared to the world that she was a lesbian and that she believed this was just fine with God. Knapp, who says she was celibate for 10 years, is now actively involved in a homosexual relationship and sees no problem reconciling her faith and her lifestyle. This is just the latest example of prominent Christian figures coming out and revealing that they are indeed homosexuals or have practiced homosexuality. Last year prominent preacher Ted Haggard and another singer Ray Boltz also revealed their hidden lifestyles to the world. They claim that God accepts them because He loves them. While I do not doubt the depth of God's love, the question we must ask is, is God's love a license to live in sin? Does love override sound doctrine in God's economy?

God's love is limitless. Romans 5:8 tells us "But God demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." But friends we must accept a plain truth of the bible: we are not saved by God's love. Love and mercy may have been the motive for God to send us Jesus, but the bible clearly teaches we are saved "by faith" through God's "grace"(Ephesians 2:8-9). And Paul clearly tells us in Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it." Yet many in Christian circles are abandoning this clear doctrine in favor of a message that "love" can overcome all. They preach a message that basically allows for any type of lifestyle under the cover of love being acceptable, and that we can remain true in our faith while living in sin. This doctrine is a lie.

God puts great emphasis on sound doctrine. In Paul's pastoral epistles to Timothy and Titus, Paul continually exhorts the young preachers to remain faithful to sound doctrine. In scriptures such as 1 Timothy 4:6; 5:17, 20; 6:20-21; 2 Timothy 1:13-14; 2:19; 3:10-17; 4:2-4; Titus 1:9-10; 2:1-12, Paul places a clear biblical emphasis on preaching sound doctrine and rebuking false doctrine. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 7:21, "Not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven." Friends, the Father's will is given to us in the holy bible. The bible calls homosexuality an "abomination," "unnatural," it calls it sin. And according to the bible we must repent from our lifestyles of sin, whatever that sin may be.

Homosexuality is a clear example in our culture of how even those who claim to be Christians have abandoned sound doctrine for a message of love and tolerance. But all sin is faced with a call for repentance from God. This is why this elevation of God's love to a place where we can live as we like, and still be a Christian and saved, is a lie, a "doctrine of demons." Jesus said Satan was a "liar" from the beginning. And Satan is very adept at propagating his lies through people who claim to represent God. The easiest way for Satan to lead someone through the gates of hell is to have them believe doctrine contrary to the bible yet still maintain their forgiveness of sin. Yes, "God is love," but He is also the judge, holy and pure, knowing no sin Himself, and He has promised to judge those who love their sin more than they love Him. That is idolatry, and a sure ticket to hell as those who practice such things will "not inherit the kingdom of God"(1 Cor 6:9-11, Gal 5:19-21, Eph 5:1-7).

So let me ask you a question. Is approving of and condoning a lifestyle God calls sin, whatever that lifestyle may be, an expression of our showing God's love to others? To quote the bible, "Certainly not!" If we truly "love our neighbor" as ourselves, we will be honest with them concerning their sinful lifestyles. This is not to be done in a condemning fashion, but rather gently, in love and in concern for the persons eternal soul(Gal 6:1). To effectively do this we must have first judged ourselves and repented of our lifestyles of sin so as not to judge another hypocritically(Matthew 7:1-5). But judge we must do! Let us always rejoice in the love of God and the gift of His Son, but let us remain faithful to sound doctrine while doing so. Remember, our love for God is directly exhibited by our obedience to Him(John 14:15, 23). If we are to fulfil the "Greatest Commandment," and love God with all of our "heart," "soul," "mind," and "strength," and love "our neighbor" as ourselves, we must be honest with them about what the bible says. We cannot compromise God's truth in the name of love.

Warning to a Nation

Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; Because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children."

In context this verse is written to the northern kingdom in Israel. After the death of Solomon Israel was divided into two kingdoms. The southern kingdom consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin was called Judah. The northern kingdom consisting of the 10 other tribes of Israel was called Israel or Ephraim. Hosea was a prophet from the northern kingdom which after the division was totally devoted to idolatry. Hosea also prophesied to the southern kingdom, but here he's addressing the northern 10 tribes. While this verse does have direct application to Israel, it is a warning that we as a nation should also pay heed to, as it addresses the situation our nation currently faces.

The United States was a nation founded upon the foundation of Judeo-Christian values. Although not all of our founding fathers were Christians, they all had a deep respect for the bible and it's teachings. I often wonder what the founding fathers would think about the nation that has evolved from their vision of a representative republic. I think I can say beyond the shadow of a doubt that our founding fathers would be shocked that the constitution they wrote has been used to justify abortion. I am sure they would be puzzled as to why the federal government is now in control of major portions of the automobile, banking and health care industries. Can you imagine the look on their faces if they were to see homosexuals being joined together in marriage? Could you imagine their surprise at knowing the 10 commandments could not be posted in a government building, that the bible would be prohibited from our schools and that prayer would be considered an infringement upon the rights of others?

The warning of Hosea written 2700 years ago seems to be playing itself out in the United States before our very eyes. Hosea told Israel they had "rejected knowledge" and "forgotten the law of your God." Is there any doubt that this same situation exists in our nation today? In the United States today, 90% of the people profess to believe in God. Are our words of profession backed up by actions that say that 90% of us have a saving faith in Jesus Christ? Do our actions as a people reflect a respect for and knowledge of God's law?

A few days ago I asked the question in another blog, why would God not judge the United States. Notice that last part of this verse from Hosea. Because Israel had "rejected knowledge" and "forgotten" God's law, God tells them that He will "forget" their children. Because of the sin that existed in the generation Hosea was writing to, God tells them their children will be forgotten by Him. Why would God do this? Well, you see, He will have no choice. Because of the sins of the parents, the children will learn from them and continue in the same sins, bringing forth judgment on their generation as God will judge their parents generation. What are our children learning from us?

We live in a society, even among church people, that is woefully lacking in biblical knowledge and seems to have forgotten God's word as the ruling principle for our lives. The northern kingdom of Israel was overwhelmed with idolatry, and even though we do not bow down to golden calves, we are a nation overflowing with idols. The idols of self, money, possessions, sports, entertainment, lust, and many, many more are exalted in our culture far above the words of God as given through the bible. We are most surely a nation that "worships God with" our lips, but our hearts are "far from Him." Are we leading our children and ourselves into the same type of judgment suffered by Israel.

The northern kingdom of Israel would be taken captive by the kingdom of Assyria. Judah would suffer a similar fate a hundred years later when Babylon would take them into captivity. While a remnant would return to Jerusalem after 70 years God would issue a final judgment on His people in 70 AD when Jerusalem was conquered by the Romans and the Jewish people were ejected from their country and dispersed across the globe for nearly 2000 years.

The prophets of the Old Testament were God's means of warning His people. Their message was simple and direct: repent and return to your God. God's message to a country like the United States is the same today. Without a return to God by our nation, judgment will eventually come. Without a revival among God's people we have no chance for national repentance. In this day which is so much like the times of Hosea, will we heed God's call to repentance? Or will we simply continue down a path to destruction. The choice is ours. Pray for our churches, our leaders and our nation, and enter into Godly repentance. A revival that sweeps across our nation could begin with you.

Middle East Knuckleball

As I was reading the news over the weekend I was reminded of a conversation between two baseball hall of famers. Back in the 1980's I worked in the Atlanta Braves minor league system. At the time the Braves employed as minor league instructors such baseball notables as Luke Appling, Eddie Matthews, and Jimy Williams as minor league instructors. Hank Aaron was responsible for the Braves minor league system at the time and Bobby Cox was the general manager. Through my job I had the chance to get to know each of these baseball giants. Two of my favorite roving instructors were hall of famers Willie Stargell and Phil Niekro. They were down to earth people who treated a minor league public relations employee like me with respect and friendship. One day Stargell was commenting on what it was like to try to hit Niekro's famous knuckleball. He said it was like "trying to hit a butterfly with hiccups." As I scanned the news this weekend I thought of this comment when reading once again of the United States and President Obama's middle east peace efforts.

I've often wondered how leaders, and in particular our presidents, who claim to be Christian, can seriously consider the prospects of middle east peace. For close to 40 years our policy regarding Israel and her enemies and the effort to bring peace between them has flown directly in the face of what the bible says about Israel. Do they not realize that the bible says the one who brings the first "false peace" between Israel an her enemies(the one who gets the agreement signed)will be the Antichrist(Daniel 9:27)? Do they not realize that true peace will not come to Israel until Jesus Christ defeats Israel's enemies when He physically returns at his second coming(Zechariah 14)? Do they not believe that those who arrange for the dividing of God's land that He gave to Israel will suffer judgment(Joel 3:2)? Is there any comprehension of God's promise to Abraham regarding His seed Israel that God will bless those who bless them and curse those who curse them(Genesis 12:3)? Have they no comprehension that God's plan and will, will be done, and their is nothing they can do to prevent it?

The answer is obviously a resounding no. Our government and leadership, our presidents, and I mean all of them since Richard Nixon; are either willfully or simply woefully ignorant regarding God's plan for His chosen people, Israel. This latest administration led by President Obama seems by far the most opposed to the biblical principles which God lays out for Israel. This past week Israeli intelligence let it be known that they believe that Hezbollah, the radical Islamic terrorist group aided and supplied by Iran through her proxy Syria, and headquartered in Lebanon, has been supplied with ballistic scud missiles. The Israeli intelligence organization Mossad is considered the most reliable intelligence source in the middle east. So you would think that news such as this would trigger a strong response from the U.S. in support of Israel, wouldn't you? Instead what we heard from the Obama administration through its spokesmen was not how this action would pose a legitimate and serious threat to Israel, but instead how this would threaten the peace process and get this, the Palestinians, Lebanese and Syrians. Huh?

I was not born yet when the Cuban missile crisis occurred but I can read a history book. As I recall we as a nation took it very seriously when our enemy the Soviet Union tried to establish ballistic missile bases on the island 90 miles south of Florida. A naval blockade was established and we possibly never came closer to the outbreak of World War III. President Kennedy would not back down, and the missiles were removed. Our opinion now seems to indicate that if such a situation were to occur now we'd be sympathetic to the Cubans, that is, if we were to take the same position we now do regarding Israel and her mortal threat. As it appears now our government led by President Obama seems intent on imposing a middle east peace wholly at the expense of Israel's sovereignty and safety with her Arab enemies being asked to give virtually nothing in the process.

Meanwhile, Iran is conducting war games where sophisticated missiles are being fired, missiles capable of targeting Israel accurately from Iran, let alone from next door in Lebanon and Syria. Iran is within grasp of the nuclear material required to build an atomic bomb. With Israel, we take a hard line, even on them building housing in already established Jewish neighborhoods simply because they are in East Jerusalem. With Iran we can't seem to decide whether to engage them in talks, establish meaningless sanctions through the U.N.(remember the worthless sanctions against Iraq), or invite them for crumpets and tea at the White House. Instead of stating forcefully that Iran will not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, we seem resigned to the fact that they will and we can somehow contain madmen from using them against Israel, a nation they have sworn to destroy. It's clear our leadership is ignoring what the bible says, but they are also ignoring the radical Islamic theology that their "messiah" will be brought to earth, the 12th Iman, through an apocalyptic event. Can we all say it together, nuclear conflict?

Israel, as it usually has to, has taken its security upon herself. Through direct envoys and third parties they have let Syria know that if Hezbollah attacks Israel with ballistic missiles,it is Syria who will be held responsible. I encourage everyone to read Isaiah chapter 17 and realize what the consequences could very well be. Here Isaiah prophecies the complete destruction of Syria's capital Damascus to the point it will be uninhabitable anymore. Damascus, FYI, is the longest inhabited city on the earth. Does anyone really believe that if cornered Israel would not launch a tactical nuclear weapon? Syria is the nation it is believed Iraq smuggled all of it's chemical WMD's to before the beginning of the latest Iraq war. After the horror of the holocaust and the Nazi gas chambers does anyone really believe Israel will allow the nation to be gassed with chemical weapons? Apparently, our government doesn't believe Israel will defend herself.

The bible tells us we need to pray for our leaders. And friends, we need to be doing this now more than ever. But let us pray a very specific prayer. Let us pray that our president sits down with a sound bible teacher who can clearly show him exactly what the bible says about Israel, and that the Holy Spirit will work upon him to accept these truths. Let us pray that our leadership can come to the honest conclusion that trying to establish peace in the middle east outside of the bible, is like trying to hit "a butterfly with hiccups."

Glenn Beck to Speak at Liberty University

I'm a fan of Liberty University. I believe it to be one of the best Christian institutions of higher learning in our nation. So it was with great interest this morning as I scanned my Facebook page that I saw that Glenn Beck has been invited to speak at Liberty along with Dr. Paige Patterson at the schools commencement ceremonies this year. I often watch Beck on Fox News. I agree with many views that he holds. I realize he is extremely popular with many political conservatives. He is entertaining and informative. But a controversy has broken out. Why you may ask? I thought Liberty embraced conservative views? I thought they would be in accord with Beck on many of his opinions. Why the controversy? Glenn Beck is a professing Mormon.

The debate that is going on takes two points of view. One view sees no problem having a Mormon speak as they feel Beck will challenge them and that we need to have an open mind. The other view is that as a Mormon Beck is a member of a false religion. Yesterday we spoke of the "big tent" philosophy that many who claim the mantle Christian are espousing. This philosophy believes that even if we have fundamental doctrinal differences, even regarding who Jesus and God are, we can come together in Christian fellowship around the things we do agree upon. I believe this approach to be flawed, as I believe Liberty University's decision to bring in Beck is flawed.

There is no debate that Mormon's and those who hold to the traditional, biblical view of Christianity worship a different God and preach a different Jesus. Mormons place equal stature upon the Book of Mormon, an extra-biblical, heretical text, and the bible. The differences are numerous, but among things Mormon's believe and espouse are that Jesus and Satan were brothers; that they are a lost tribe of Israel, even though none of the genetic markers that identify a person as Jewish is found among them; that we will one day all be gods with our own planet to be steward of. This is radically different from what the bible teaches. So why would a self proclaimed Christian university ask someone who follows "another gospel" and embraces "another Jesus," someone Paul says should be "accursed(Galations 1:8-9)," to speak?

That is the question I am struggling with. While I am sure no one in the hierarchy at Liberty believes Mormonism is anything other than a false religion, why not bring in someone who espouses true Christian beliefs to address political issues as I'm sure Beck will. From Fox News Britt Hume would have been an excellent choice. Why open the university, and to a greater extent, all Christians, to the sort of controversy this selection will most certainly bring. No doubt Liberty will receive all kinds of publicity regarding the Beck appearance, but is this the type of publicity they want?

What this decision does is open up the door for non-Christians to bash those who oppose this selection with the labels of intolerant and bigot. And judging from Liberty's Facebook page, many alumni are taking a view that opposes this decision. Even though it will not be the intent, will not the Beck selection offer an endorsement of Mormonism from the school in some peoples eyes. If the speaker were not someone as famous as Beck who was a Muslim, a Hindu, a Jehovah's Witness, a Scientologist who espoused conservative politics would so many Christians be so receptive of the decision?

I have nothing against Glenn Beck. But is it biblical for us as Christians to elevate and give a platform to someone who is a member of what many consider a cult? It is not intolerant to say that one can be saved and right with God only through faith in the Jesus of the bible. We are not bigots because we profess that Jesus is the only way to the Father. Have our political views trumped our desire to exalt Jesus Christ above all others, even our country? I believe Christians should be active in politics, but not at the cost of the cause of Christ. We are not told to win elections or support a particular political party in the bible. We are commanded to make disciples. How can having a person who practices a false religion speak at one of the leading Christian universities in our nation help accomplish this?

I expect alot of media attention for this. The secular media will try to demonize Liberty as they have Beck because of the political differences. The Christian media will rightfully question the wisdom and discernment of Liberty. When the secular media picks up on the Christian views they will use it in an attempt to once again paint all of Christianity as intolerant and bigots. Is this choice really worth all of that?

Who is This Jesus?

Their is a debate that is happening in church circles that has stirred up much interest. It is called "Big Tent" Christianity. This philosophy espouses a belief that even if we have fundamental biblical differences on doctrine, even regarding who Jesus was and is, we can still come together and be united by our common beliefs. While this philosophy may sound tolerant and inclusive, is it biblical? This is the question we'll attempt to answer today.

What this debate comes down to is the authority of scripture in our lives. Do we accept the bible as the inspired, immutable, inerrant word of God, or don't we? As someone who does this leaves us with what the bible says. The bible gives to us a very clear presentation of who Jesus Christ is. The bible clearly states that Jesus was born of a virgin. The Jesus of the bible was both fully God and fully man and was without sin. He died as our substitute taking our sins upon Himself, and through saving faith in Him our sin is forgiven. He died, was buried and on the third day God raised Him from the dead. Through His resurrection He is the first fruits of the future resurrection all who believe in Him will share in. The bible gives us a Jesus who ascended to heaven and currently sits at the right hand of the Father. One day, according to the bible, He will physically return to judge the earth and establish His kingdom. This is the Jesus clearly presented throughout the bible. He is the Jesus of historical and spiritual record.

The philosophy of "Big Tent" Christianity does not believe we need to be in complete agreement regarding Jesus. My question for those who do espouse this philosophy is this: if someone does not believe in the biblical Jesus, where is the record of the Jesus they profess? There is only one Jesus, and that's the Jesus of the bible. In the bible we are warned that people will profess "another Jesus" and "another gospel." Jesus Himself warned us of "false christs." Friends, any Jesus that is not the Jesus of the bible, is "another Jesus." Any gospel that is not the gospel clearly given in the bible is "another gospel." We must understand, their are, and always have been, "false christs."

Ecumenism, the belief that all faiths are equal and valid, is a "doctrine of demons." I'm not speaking of different denominations who profess and believe in the Jesus of the bible, but religions and pseudo Christians who profess a Jesus or god not of the bible. God is a God of order, not disorder. He has revealed to us one revelation, and that is the Holy Bible. And the Jesus of the bible is the only Jesus.

So how should we react? Well, the bible is clear. We cannot have Christian fellowship with them. This does not mean we don't love them, it simply means we cannot come together as brothers in Christ as they follow "another Jesus." Ephesians 5: 8-11 tells us, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light(for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them." Anyone who professes or follows a Jesus not of the bible, is in darkness.

This is why the philosophy of "Big Tent" Christianity is flawed. It is not biblical. It sounds good and is most definitely politically correct, but never in history has their been a less politically correct person that Jesus. "Big Tent" Christianity is compromise on the truth of the bible. It is placing our feelings, desires and beliefs over scripture. Do we fully understand what the bible teaches us? Jesus tells us in Matthew 7: 13-15, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it."

That gate, the door, the only way, is through faith in the Jesus given to us through holy scripture. Faith in any other Jesus or god leads to destruction. This may not be popular, and it will not win us friends in the world., but it is the truth of the bible. So to those who do not uphold the holy scriptures as the "God breathed" revelation of Jesus, I ask, the one whom you follow; Who is this Jesus? Because he's not the Jesus of the bible.

Great Commission Resurgence Feedback

Earlier this week and last week I had the opportunity to sit down with many fellow Southern Baptist pastors in Chesterfield county. The reason we came together was to discuss the "Great Commission Resurgence" progress report issued last month by the task force asked by the SBC to prepare the report. The final report is due in May and will be debated and voted upon at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Orlando, FL in June. I respect all of my fellow pastors that were present, and the debate was most definitely spirited. Here are a few of my observations.

This is a critical time for Southern Baptists. We are a convention that I believe is nearing crisis. As a convention we have been stagnant regarding baptisms since the late 1950's, this in spite of the SBC having far more churches and church members and the population of the United States growing exponentially. For the first time in our conventions history we are losing membership. It is clear that we need to make some changes. The question is, will this report be an instrument to meaningful change or merely another methodological and structural attempt to increase numbers. As I write what will follow I do not wish to disparage any of the 20 gentlemen serving on this task force as they are simply doing as the SBC asked them to do at last years convention. I believe all of them to be honorable servants of God and I would not want to be in their shoes.

The 32 page progress report is interpreted by many to be a complete structural overhaul of the SBC. Their are indeed many complex and major structural changes that are suggested including a major shifting of monies to areas of the country where Southern Baptists do not have a major presence, basically outside the bible belt to large cities; a major restructuring of the North American Missions Board(NAMB); a proposal to identify all missions giving as cooperative program giving and renaming it "Great Commission Giving"; for the International Mission Board(IMB) to be placed in charge of ministering to the differing people groups of the world even if they are in the United States. More are present but you get the drift.

Those issues will be debated and settled so I won't waste my breath here. What I'd like to tell you is what I foresee happening in June when we come together as a convention. I see a major divide occurring between the older generation and the younger generation. At our gathering I was the youngest pastor present at age 45 and all but one of the other pastors present were strongly against most of the changes being proposed. I see a divide occurring between the smaller churches and the larger and mega-churches as it can be interpreted some of the money issues seem to accentuate the power of the larger churches. I see the strong possibility of this being an extremely divisive convention at a time when we need biblical unity around the person of Jesus Christ.

Some are comparing this time as similar to the conservative resurgence that strongly divided the SBC in the 1970's and 1980's. That wound up being a good thing as the SBC returned to the bible and its authority. The big difference I see between now and then is I do not believe these battles to be biblical in origin, as it was then. These will be battles of how we do things as convention, in a structural way. While the aim may be to better fulfil the Great Commission, there is no debate about the Great Commission itself, as we all agree on the principles of Matthew 28:16-20. This will not be a debate about what the bible says, but how to go about it. In my opinion, that's a big difference.

Do we need change in the SBC? Do we need some reform? I say absolutely. Are we going about it in the right way? That is the question. Is major, sweeping change that happens all at once the right way to do it? To me, this debate seems similar to the recent health care debate. One side wanted major sweeping change and the other incremental more measured change. All agreed change was needed, but the debate was about how to do it and how much should occur at once. We all saw how that played out, and how divisive it was and still is in our nation. My question to my fellow Southern Baptists is, do we want to risk such major sweeping change with no guarantees of success at the cost of a major rift in our convention? Would it be worth the cost that could occur? We all agree in the need for some changes, but will we be more effective in truly fulfilling the Great Commission if we are a divided convention and our best tool for spreading the gospel, the cooperative program, is hurt as many believe it could be?

These are tough questions we face. Personally, I lean toward a more patient, pragmatic approach. Their does indeed need to be a sense of urgency among us in reaching the lost, and fulfilling the Great Commission. But do we need to place all of our eggs in an untested basket? Would it not be prudent to roll the changes out after doing field tests to work out the bugs and see some of the unintended consequences that always come with sweeping change? This will be the focus of this years meeting.

On a last personal note, I question our focus in fulfilling the Great Commission. I strongly believe that unless a heart change occurs, and repentance from our sin and lethargy, our complacency and comfort is present; unless we as God's children are under a Holy Spirit conviction and begin to live out the Greatest Commandment and fully offer ourselves as a living sacrifice to our Lord, our effort no matter what form it may take will not have the desired result. Unless we can go out in the power of God, and not just win souls, but actually make disciples, we will simply be spinning our wheels. In order for true revival to occur in our nation and world, it must first occur in God's church. Recently I've seen many fellow pastors crying out for a focus on discipleship to go along with a focus on evangelism. If we cannot make disciples, we cannot fulfil the Great Commission. Are we putting the cart before the horse? Shouldn't we be more focussed upon seeing the lives of those in our congregations transformed than increasing baptisms. The latest statistics show of those baptized by SBC churches ten years ago, only 2 in 10 could be located. I pray for my convention as we enter this difficult time. The decisions made could have lasting impact. I pray we show love for one another and we work in the Holy Spirit, and that the spirit of this world, of pride and power, are rebuked. I pray for God to reveal Himself, and that Godly wisdom rules the day. My concern is that the flesh may reveal itself instead.

No More Tears, No More Death, No More Sorrow

Revelation 21:4, "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

One of the most encouraging verses in the bible for believers is Revelation 21:4. In this verse God promises us that one day in heaven the things of this earth that have brought us to tears, brought sorrow and pain, have brought death, will be wiped away by God Himself. It is indeed a great comfort to know that one day we as believers will no longer have to deal with the troubles of this fallen world. But while this verse is indeed true, and a day will one day come when all of these things are fulfilled, do we really understand its meaning? Many misinterpret this verse to mean that once we die, and come into the presence of Jesus Christ, all of these things will be fulfilled. Sadly, this is not the case.

I'm an expository preacher, which means I preach through books of the bible chapter by chapter and verse by verse. I do this because I believe that this is the best way to communicate the true meaning of God's word, to give it out in the context that He gave it to us. For accurate biblical interpretation, context is king, and what comes before and after a certain verse or section of scripture has direct bearing on the meaning of that scripture. With this principle in mind, let's look at this verse.

Revelation chapter 21 is obvious preceded by Revelation chapter 20. In Revelation chapter 20 we have the final judgment of the dead, those who died without faith in God and salvation in Jesus Christ. We call this the "Great White Throne Judgment." It is the judgment where for eternity those who died outside of Christ are thrown into the "eternal lake of fire," what we commonly refer to as hell. We are with Christ at this judgment, as we have returned with Him on "white horses," "clothed in white linen , white and clean(Rev. 19:14)."

There is even a case to be made that we will judge in righteousness with Jesus as in Revelation 20:4 in tells us that judgment "was committed" to those who were martyred during the Tribulation period, those who gave their lives for Christ in the face of Antichrist. Also, in 1 Corinthians 6: 2-3 Paul makes the statement to believers that we will judge "the world" and "angels." Whether we will be part of the judgment of these at the "Great White Throne" is debatable, but there is no question we will be there when judgment is made.

I mention this to make a point. The promise of God in Revelation 21:4 of "no more" tears, death, sorrow and pain comes after the "Great White Throne Judgment." This judgment is in fact called the "second death," eternal, spiritual death that the guilty, those outside of Christ and whose names are not found in the "Book of Life," will be sentenced too. So if this promise in Revelation 21:4 follows the "Great White Throne," what will it be like for us as we either cast the guilty verdict with Jesus or watch as He declares all who stand before Him guilty?

If our father or mother, sister or brother, son or daughter, best friend or neighbor, stands before the "Great White Throne" before a holy and just Jesus, and is declared guilty, what will our reaction be? While we no doubt will agree with Jesus in His judgment, I cannot help but believe that as we watch as our loved one(s) are cast into hell that there will be pain; there will be sorrow; there will be tears and crying. As we watch our family and friends cast into that "lake of fire," how could we not feel these things? We know they deserve it, but that will not numb the pain of eternal judgment.

So I'll ask you these questions; who do you know who may not be or is not saved? Who do you know that may stand before you and Jesus on that day? Who do you know who is guilty of their sin as it had not been washed away by the blood of Christ? Friends, this day of judgment approaches, possibly faster than we think. Do you have a sense of urgency regarding the souls of those you love? Are you a faithful witness before them in word and deed concerning the salvation available only through Jesus Christ? Do you really want to be in this position of eternally judging them or watching them be judged?

Friends, if that day at the "Great White Throne" does not burden your heart for the lost people in your lives, you may want to ask yourself this question; am I really saved? For there is no way we can claim to be a "born again," "new creation" in Jesus Christ and not be broken hearted over our loved ones spending eternity in hell.

Are We What We Claim to Be?

I was struck by this quote I found on "The Crosstalk Blog" posted by Ingrid Schleuter. This blog can be linked off of this page. The quote is by Rett Copple and reads; "The evangelical landscape in America is unlike anywhere else. Here you aren't dealing with a majority of atheists or false religions. What we have to combat the most is a majority of folks who've received enough Christianity to damn them. They've jumped through an evangelical hoop and claim Christ on their Facebook, but are in love with their sin and hate God's law. America, the land of the false conversion."

At a pastors conference I attended last November one of the visiting speakers observed from the pulpit, "Why is it when I look out at my congregation at people who profess to be a Christian I see so few who look like the bible says a Christian should?" Almost in unison every pastor present nodded their head in agreement. The question is a relevant one, and so we should ask ourselves; Are we what we claim to be? Is there real evidence in our lives other than our presence in church that we have experienced the radical change that will occur if we truly are "born again" a "new creation" in Christ?

Jesus warns us of this very condition in Matthew 7:21-23. Our Lord says here, "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, "Lord, Lord have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me you who practice lawlessness!" Yet as we gaze across the landscape of the church of professing Christians today this warning seems to go unheeded. Are we simply willfully ignorant believing God's grace and love will simply cover our continual disobedience? Have we been told we are saved so many times because at some point we prayed a prayer, walked an isle or have been baptized that we have not bothered to discover the truth? Have we been truly converted and changed by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit?

It pains me to think of these questions, but think of them we must. We must understand merely professing Christ and being a church member will not get us into heaven. We must be honest with ourselves as we examine our faith to know if it is really real, and ask tough questions. Am currently engaged in activities the bible calls sin? Do I place God first in My life? Is my love for Him above all others? Am I unashamed of the gospel? Do I look like what the bible says a Christian will look like?

Friends, we cannot claim Christ in our lives and not experience radical change in our lives. Their is no way God through His Holy Spirit can live inside of us and we not be radically changed. It absolutely breaks my heart that people I know and love who claim Jesus show no real change in their lives. Change: repentance, obedience, faithfulness to Him are the evidence of salvation. We must understand that God's love for us will not save us. God loves everyone, but He will only save those who have true faith in Jesus Christ. Grace alone will not save us, as it must be accompanied by the life changing faith that comes with truly receiving Jesus.

Paul tells us through the Holy Spirit in Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not!(KJV God forbid!) How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?" A true believer in Jesus Christ will not continue to live as the world does. We will not continue to live in sin. This does not mean we will not sin, but rather, that sin will not be a pattern in our lives. Can we truthfully say to ourselves this type of radical change has occurred in our lives? If not, are we truly saved?

Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:22-24, "that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness." Are we more like the old man, or the new man? Do we see righteousness and holiness in our lives? If not, let us ask ourselves, have I honestly received Christ and Lord and Savior? How we answer that question could have eternal consequences.

Why Would God NOT Judge the U.S.?

As I ponder the question asked in the title of this blog, I struggle to come up with reasons He would not. Now let me say this, I love my country. There is no place I'd rather live. I am glad God in His grace chose me to be born an American. But like so many who take the bible literally, I am distressed at where my country stands now in relation to the word of God. We seem to be a country that worships God "with our lips," but our hearts are "far from Him." The laws and commands of God are willfully ignored and a spirit of political correctness and compromise override obedience to our Creator and Savior. As a nation, all we have to do is look at the history of Israel to know that God will indeed judge the United States.

Paul writes by the Holy Spirit in 1 Corinthians 10:6, "Now these things(regarding Israel) became our example to the intent that we would not lust after evil things as they(Israel) also lusted." Israel is given to us as an example, an example of what not to do in many cases. God was patient with Israel. For well over a thousand years He watched as they fell away from Him and chased after other gods. He would judge them in part but they would return to Him and He would show mercy. This was the pattern of Israel throughout it's history.

Finally, God sent His Son unto His own, Israel, but "His own received Him not." This rejection of Messiah led to the destruction of Jerusalem and the scattering of the Jews in 70 AD. Israel would not exist as a nation again until 1948, as a result of this judgment of God. God loves Israel, He calls them the "apple" of His eye. But God told them He would judge them if they did not follow Him. They did not, and hence, the judgment.

As a nation the United States was founded upon the foundation of Judeo-Christian values with a belief and understanding of the bible. It is hard to make the argument that we are still a nation that rests upon those same values. We live in a nation and culture that celebrates and embraces sin. Immorality is now accepted and considered normal. Things God calls an abomination and unnatural are held up as natural. The lives of the unborn, the most defenseless in our society, have been discarded to the tune of over 50 million abortions since 1973. We are more and more a pagan nation.

And recently our government has shown a disdain for God's re-established nation, Israel, and in our history have never been closer to turning our back on those who are still God's chosen, though they still be outside of God's will. God's promise to Abraham and his descendants was, "I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse those who curse you." God help us if we turn away from Israel.

Throughout the bible the message is clear to people who stand where we now stand. Repent and return to the Lord! While I pray daily for revival in our churches and nation in my lifetime there has never been a time when we've been further away from God. So why would God not judge us? In my heart I find myself praying, Lord, "in Your wrath, remember mercy." Our cup of iniquity is reaching its point of overflowing. Unless we return to the Lord our judgment as a nation is not a matter of if, but when.

A Lack of Self Control

Being laid up with a bad back and sciatic nerve has been frustrating to say the least. To not be able to sit down and so much as type a blog is a literal pain. But during this time I have had a chance to observe on a close level our culture through the lens of the media. This past weekend the Masters golf tournament was held, which obviously featured the return of Tiger Woods to the public forum.

Woods is arguably the greatest golfer of all time. As a person who enjoys golf I've always marveled at his skill. That said, what has been revealed about his personal lifesyle over the past few months has also been as eye opening as one of his 330 yard drives. Now understand, I believe in second chances. I believe in 3rd, 4th and 5th chances. I believe people can change. Over the past few months as I've watched Woods apologize profusely for his actions I've hoped for the best and honest repentance.

As our culture has regressed over the last 20-30 years one thing that has truly been lost is the belief of self control over sin. We live in a culture today that not only openly embraces sin but offers its blessing of it. Woods is a prime example of this. When sin is revealed as it was in Woods case, and words of apology spoken, it is the actions that follow that will show us whether the person was sorry for the act or for the fact they were caught. With Woods, he appeared rehearsed but sincere and seemed to say all the right things. Woods even expressed his intention to return to his religious roots in Bhudism. Prior to the golf tournament he even spoke of how his new found self control would be reflected in less emotion on the golf course, both positive and negative. In other words, his famous temper would be under control at the expense of his unbridled enthusiasm expressed in success. Sadly, this self proclaimed change was quickly forgotten this weekend.

Woods was wonderful and humble the first 2 days, as his play was remarkably good for someone who had not played competetively for over 4 months. But as the weekend came and the the pressure mounted, Woods game slipped, and the old Tiger quickly emerged. Poor shots were quickly followed by expletive laced explosions and Tiger fell off the pace. In his post tournament comments, he had an opportunity to once again humble himself and thank the crowd for it's warm embrace of him after all of the embarrassing facts of his behavior had been revealed, but he was totally self focussed.

Contrast this to the past year in the life of winner Phil Mickleson. Mickleson is arguably Woods biggest rival on tour. In the past year both Mickleson's wife and mother were diagnosed with cancer, and Mickleson put his passion for golf on hold to care for his family. When he won going away the tears shed were not for the win, but for his family. Mickleson surely was thrilled with his victory, but it clearly paled in concern for his family. It's always refreshing to see an athlete who is showered with such attention to truly humble himself in regard to others.

What I pray Woods finally realizes is something that Fox News commentator Britt Hume voiced and suffered ridicule for several months ago. That Tiger needs Jesus Christ, not Buddah or counseling in his life. You see, self control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, given only by Jesus Christ. I've often wondered what sort of impact a person of the magnitude Tiger Woods could have if he truly became a born again believer in Jesus. As a fan of his golfing skills I pray for his eternal salvation available only through Jesus. I pray he realizes the sort of change he claims to seek is only available through a spiritual rebirth in Christ. Jesus tells us we will know them "by their fruits." I pray one day we'll see the fruits of Jesus Christ in Woods. We did not see that this past weekend.

The Cross

Hebrews 2:3, "how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him."

Today is "Good Friday." It is the day we celebrate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is the day we revere the sacrifice of His blood for the atonement of our sins. So how can the death of Jesus on the cross be called "Good." Friends, it was not good. It was incredible, miraculous, heaven sent. It was indeed good, and pleasing to the Father who freely gave His Son as the sacrifice for our sins. Today we celebrate the second most important day in history. The only day more important is Sunday, what we call Easter, when Jesus was raised from the dead as the proof He was God, and the first fruits of the future resurrection which will include all who have believed in and followed Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Jesus clearly claims He is the only way to heaven and eternity with God the Father. In John 14:6 Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." He is the "narrow gate." He is the "door." Any other belief system that does not claim Jesus as Lord and Savior, the "way" to God and heaven, is a false religion. Though the way be narrow, it is open to anyone who chooses to enter. Though their be just one door, all are free to walk through it. Christ does not discriminate. He simply says you must come through Me. Allah will not get you there. Buddah will not get you there. The book of Mormon does not reveal the truth, neither does the Koran. Jesus says He's the only way. He tells us the truth of God and only He can give us eternal life in heaven. Though the world and other religions claim otherwise, Jesus Himself is dogmatic. As Acts 4:12 says, "Nor is there salvation in any other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

As Hebrews 2:3 says, their is no escape from eternal judgement and hell if we reject Jesus. To many that sounds harsh. Other religions teach we can eventually be good enough to please God. The bible says, "Their is none good, no not one." Other religions teach we can please God through our own righteousness, the bible says "our righteousnesses are as filthy rags" before God. Jesus, God, came to earth so that we could be good enough. Jesus, God, died so that we could be righteous in Him. If we truly believe in Jesus, the Father no longer sees our sin; no longer sees our unrighteousness; no longer sees us. He sees Jesus, as we are in Him. We are covered and cleansed by His blood. He died so that we may live.

So I'll ask you today, do you really know Jesus? Do you believe in your heart that He died for your sins, was buried, and on the 3rd day God raised Him from the dead? Does your life reflect Him? Are you obedient to His word and commands? Does He come first in your life? If you cannot answer these questions in the affirmative, understand, you are not saved. And as the bible says, their is no escape for you. We all will stand before Jesus one day. "Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess" that He is Lord. We will have no argument before Him, as He knows the truth of our hearts. In that day of judgment, only one question will matter. What have you done with Jesus? Have you believed and followed Him, or have you rejected Him. All are welcome, but the choice is yours.

Jesus in Prophecy

Isaiah 53:6, "All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, everyone, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all."

Isaiah chapter 53 is my favorite chapter in the bible. To me, it is, the most exact prophetic picture of Jesus in the bible. It covers His entire life, from childhood through the cross, from the resurrection to His asscension, to the establishment of His kingdom. This day before "Good Friday," it seemed appropriate to review this momentus chapter in the bible, so turn to Isaiah 53.

v. 1) Isaiah speaks for himself when he asks the question, "Whom has believed our report?" Their are ovr 300 seperate prophesies of the 1st coming of Christ in the Old Testament, yet the Jews could not see that their Messiah had indeed come. Very few believed. But the power(arm) of the Lord had been revealed through Jesus. The correct translation from the original greek should be the "bared arm of the Lord." This speaks of hard work. The bible tells us God spoke the universe into existence, as John Wesley put it, 'God created the univrse, and didn't even half try.' But this was hard work. The Father was sending His Son to earth to die for you an me.

v. 2) Jesus is referred to as a "tender plant." This refers to His childhood. Jesus was a child, we sometimes forget that. He was fully man and fully God, but He also was a child dependent upon human parents for care. "A root out of dry gound" refers to Him coming from the line of David, which had been cut off from the throne due to sin. The line was dried up, so he did not appear(No form or comlieness) to have the credentials to be Messiah.

v. 3-5) You don't get crucified for no reason unless you are "despised and rejected." Notice the word "our" in these 3 verses which appears 5 times; Our faces, our sorrows, our transgressions, our iniquities, our peace. He was a "man of sorrows," but not His sorrows, our sorrows. Jesus knew and knows our grief and sorrows and He was "smitten and afflicted" for our transgressions and iniquities, for our sin. Our peace, which refers to our peace with God and the atonement and forgiveness of sins, was indeed "upon Him." "He who knew no sin became sin for us." By "His stripes we are healed" of our sin condition, and made right with God.

v. 6) Notice the word "all," which begins and ends this verse. "All" have gone astray. "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." But the iniquity of us "all" was laid upon Him. The first "all" condemns us all as sinners. The second "all" offers forgiveness of that sin to all who will believe. What's the difference between the first condemning "all" and the second "forgiving" all? It's the middle part of the verse. If we turn to our own ways and reject Jesus, we will be condemned as sinners. If we turn to Christ and follow Him, we will be forgiven.

v. 7) In spite of having the power, as God on earth, to stop His trial and ultimately His crucifiction, Jesus remained silent before His accusers. His "joy" was to suffer on the cross for us so that we may once again be acceptable to God through His blood. He was the "Lamb of God sent to take away the sin of the world."

v. 8) Jesus did indeed die. He was "cut off from the land of the living." He died for our "transgressions."

v. 9) Jesus was crucified between 2 thieves, with the "wicked." But was buried in the tomb of a rich man, Joseph of Aramethia. Jesus did harm to no one and always proclaimed the truth. He committed no sin.

v. 10) This verse has always amazed me. It says it "pleased the Lord(Father) to bruise Him(Son)." The word bruise in the greek is the word "halal." It means literally to pierce. It was pleasing to the Father to send His Son to die for us. That friends, is true love for you and me. His soul was the "offering," once and "for all," for sin. And Jesus will see the fruit of the seed He planted, Jesus will prosper as the future ruler of the universe.

v. 11) The labor of the cross is rewarded when any sinner comes to salvation. We are justified through Him, as He bore our "iniquities.

v. 12) The Father will give Jesus the keys to His kingdom. The "spoil" will be divided. While He was crucified like a common criminal(numbered with the transgressors), He interceded for all of us "transgressors."

As you can see this chapter in the bible is an exact picture of Jesus Christ. It was written a full 700 years before Christ. Friends, only God can know the future. This chapter and many others in the bible which reveal fulfilled prophecy is one of the great proofs that the bible is indeed the word of God. As we approach Easter weekend, reflect on that. Maybe share this with an unbeliever. Let them see that the bible does indeed declare the absolute truth of God.