Thursday, July 30, 2009
Welcome w0lf17!
A very warm welcome to my friend w0lf17. Wolf and I are in an alliance together on Travian.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Japanese Game Show
Need a laugh? Watch a Japanese game show. Here is a great game show called Marshmallow Maniacs. The Japanese have a great sense of humor!
Improve Your Morning Routine
Want to get out the door quicker? Need time for breakfast? Learn how to get up, eat breakfast, and get ready for work in 5 minutes!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Romance at Its Best
The recent hit by Eric Church, Love Your Love the Most, is without a doubt one of the most romantic songs of all time. If ever a song could get a man out of the doghouse it is this song. Any woman who does not simply melt upon hearing these lyrics is beyond heartless. This song is a rare glimps into the soul.
Sidenote: Eric Church grew up about 20 minutes from my house!
Sidenote: Eric Church grew up about 20 minutes from my house!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Exiled Preacher: An interview with Stuart Burgess
Here is an interesting interview on creationism with a Christian scientist (i.e. a scientist who is a Christian, not a follower of Scientology, although most interviews with followers of Scientology are quite interesting ; ) ).
Exiled Preacher: An interview with Stuart Burgess
Exiled Preacher: An interview with Stuart Burgess
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Guess what I found today? Installment 6
After returning from a brief trip to the bathroom, I noticed a mostly empty container of chocolate pudding sitting on the kitchen table. Then I found two small children with chocolate pudding masks. Apparently, my three year old daughter thought it would be fun to wear pudding. My two year old son was completely covered. All I could see was a big grin through the mess. It was a job too good for him to have done alone. We have always encouraged creativity and my daughter is very artistic. No doubt she saw this as a masterpiece. This is the same daughter who has cut pretty pictures in the tablecloth, her shirt, the cat's hair, and her hair. Also the same daughter who puts random toys in the refrigerator and wants a bellybutton on her forehead. She is going to be a "pineapple tree" when she grows up. I suppose even creativity needs limits. I jokingly said that she will not likely be a doctor; personally, I think she will make a great philosopher. All great philosophers have a love for illogic and the absurd.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
LCMS vs ELCA
I spent many hours (months, if truth be told) trying to figure out the main differences between the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA). Here are some of the differences between the LCMS and the ELCA.
Distribution of Communion practices (open/closed) - ELCA has Open Communion meaning that anyone present may partake of the Sacrament, LCMS has Closed Communion meaning that only those who have undergone proper instruction may partake of the Sacrament to ensure that a person does not receive the Eucharist in error or to the person's damnation
Ecumenical Worship - ELCA supports, LCMS does not
Infallibility of Scripture - ELCA says yes insofar as the message is concerned but not necessarily in every respect, LCMS says yes Scripture is completely infallible in absolutely every way
An example might be Jesus walking on water; the ELCA would say maybe He actually walked on water, maybe He didn't, the LCMS would say yes Jesus actually walked on water.
Distribution of Communion practices (open/closed) - ELCA has Open Communion meaning that anyone present may partake of the Sacrament, LCMS has Closed Communion meaning that only those who have undergone proper instruction may partake of the Sacrament to ensure that a person does not receive the Eucharist in error or to the person's damnation
Ecumenical Worship - ELCA supports, LCMS does not
Infallibility of Scripture - ELCA says yes insofar as the message is concerned but not necessarily in every respect, LCMS says yes Scripture is completely infallible in absolutely every way
An example might be Jesus walking on water; the ELCA would say maybe He actually walked on water, maybe He didn't, the LCMS would say yes Jesus actually walked on water.
Monday, May 11, 2009
How to read theology - a guide for the perplexed
Here are some good guidelines for reading and understanding Theology.
The Blogging Parson: How to read theology - a guide for the perplexed
The Blogging Parson: How to read theology - a guide for the perplexed
Friday, May 8, 2009
My Personal Addictions
I am very addicted to Travian. Currently, I am on Server 7.
I am also addicted to Tower Defense (TD) games. Here are some of my favorites:
Mushroom Farm Defender
Flash Element
Simple Tower Defense III
The Horde
Mushroom Revolution
I am also addicted to Tower Defense (TD) games. Here are some of my favorites:
Mushroom Farm Defender
Flash Element
Simple Tower Defense III
The Horde
Mushroom Revolution
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Conversation Between My Daughters
I overheard a conversation between my daughters (ages 5 and 3) that made me very proud. I think my oldest may turn out to be a theologian. She tells her sister Bible stories and has helped us to teach her sister the Lord's Prayer.
3 yr old daughter: ...yeah, they put Joseph in a hole in the ground because they didn't like him.
5 yr old daughter: Sissy, they put him in a dry well because they were jealous of him.
3 yr old daughter: why is our belly button not on our forehead? *giggles*
I don't think my 3 year old will be a doctor.
3 yr old daughter: ...yeah, they put Joseph in a hole in the ground because they didn't like him.
5 yr old daughter: Sissy, they put him in a dry well because they were jealous of him.
3 yr old daughter: why is our belly button not on our forehead? *giggles*
I don't think my 3 year old will be a doctor.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Apology of the Faith
Okay, so with that last post I've just become a bad guy to a lot of people. I'm not trying to make anyone mad. We are far too quiet when it comes to defending the gospel. I just want to point out the truth because I care. I want everyone to be closer with Christ.
*In the world of Theology the word apology means "defense."
*In the world of Theology the word apology means "defense."
Charles Grandison Finney
Charles Finney (1792-1875) has successfully misshaped Christianity more than any other person in history. While many call Finney a great Theologian, I call him an antichrist. He has led a tremendous number of people away from the true Word of God.
With no theological training whatsoever, Finney began to teach people what he believed about God--not what scripture teaches. His theology (Arminian Theology) is based in heightened emotions and morality and, in turn, conversions. His entire ideology is centered in these things. Finney's theology takes away the need of Christ. Perfection, he says, is what God commands and perfection is attainable as a result from true conversion.
Finney's ideas about conversion are clearly anti-scriptural. He invented "Decision Theology" which has confused innumerable people. Decision Theology states that we are saved because we choose to be saved, not because of Christ's death and resurrection. Finney as much as says this about Christ, "[Christ] could do no more than justify himself. It can never be imputed to us ... it was naturally impossible, then, for him to obey in our behalf..." This goes against the entire meaning of the Bible. The very heart or backbone of Christianity (Kerygma; please see post entitled "Kerygmatic Statement") states that Christ died for us, to save us from sin and death (John 3:16, and many, many more versus from scripture). To contradict scripture in this way is to contradict Christianity as a whole. Thus, Charles Finney is an antichrist.
With no theological training whatsoever, Finney began to teach people what he believed about God--not what scripture teaches. His theology (Arminian Theology) is based in heightened emotions and morality and, in turn, conversions. His entire ideology is centered in these things. Finney's theology takes away the need of Christ. Perfection, he says, is what God commands and perfection is attainable as a result from true conversion.
Finney's ideas about conversion are clearly anti-scriptural. He invented "Decision Theology" which has confused innumerable people. Decision Theology states that we are saved because we choose to be saved, not because of Christ's death and resurrection. Finney as much as says this about Christ, "[Christ] could do no more than justify himself. It can never be imputed to us ... it was naturally impossible, then, for him to obey in our behalf..." This goes against the entire meaning of the Bible. The very heart or backbone of Christianity (Kerygma; please see post entitled "Kerygmatic Statement") states that Christ died for us, to save us from sin and death (John 3:16, and many, many more versus from scripture). To contradict scripture in this way is to contradict Christianity as a whole. Thus, Charles Finney is an antichrist.
Why anyone would follow a person who says such things is puzzling. Yet many do, including the enormous Baptist church with all of its followers. Many independent churches, and peitists fall in this category as well.
---
"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the [spiritually] dead,
and Christ will shine upon you." (Eph 5:14)
---
+
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Guess what I found today? Installment 5
This morning I found the favorite stuffed animal (Ducky) of my youngest daughter in the refrigerator. Image what she does to her stuffed animals that are not her favorites! When I asked her why Ducky was in the fridge, she very casually replied, "Because I was wanted to keep him cold. He likes to be cold."
Guess what I found today? Installment 4
Today my youngest daughter found a sippy-cup under my bed. I believe it once had milk in it. What was in it upon finding it was something altogether different (Yuck!).
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Anti-Arminian
This blog has taken on a strong anti-Arminian flavor. This was not my original intent. I will make no apologies for this, however. It does not displease me. In our search for Truth, we must reject all that opposes and hinders Truth. Arminianism has distorted the truth more than any other Theology has ever done.
Who will answer the altar call?
Most of us have heard of altar calls. You may have even participated in an altar call. But what exactly does one answer? What exactly is an altar call?
Wikipedia says this:
"An altar call is a practice in some evangelical churches in which those who wish to make a new spiritual commitment to Jesus Christ are invited to come forward publicly. It is so named because the supplicants gather at the altar located at the front of the church.
Most altar calls occur at the end of an evangelical address. The invitation may be referred to as an "altar call" even if there is no actual altar present. Many preachers make use of the altar call, notably Billy Graham, Benny Hinn, Franklin Graham, Reinhardt Bonnke, and so on. Those that come forward will usually be asked to recite a sinner's prayer, thereby making a confession of their new faith. They may also be offered literature or counselling and other assistance in their new faith.
It is sometimes said that those who come forth are going to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior. This is a ritual in which the supplicant makes a prayer asking for his sins to be forgiven, and pledges his devotion to Jesus.
Altar calls may also invite Christians to come forward for specific purposes other than conversion; for example to rededicate their lives after a lapse, to request publicly to be baptized, or to receive a particular blessing (such as gifts of the Holy Spirit) or if they are called to certain tasks such as missionary work...."
Sounds good...at least at first glance.
The altar call was unheard of until a man named Charles Finney (August 29, 1792 - August 16, 1875), as a part of his "new measures," taught its practice.
Finney believed that a person gained salvation through deciding to accept Christ. This too was unheard of--mainly because it is anti-scriptural (See post entitled "Decision Theology"). So the altar call was instated for people to publicly become Christians.
In order to get people to "answer" the altar call and come before the church, strong emotions were invoked. Once a person entered a heightened state of emotion he or she would be motivated to come forth to decide to accept Christ and therefore be saved (i.e. gain salvation).
At what point is the person saved? Is it upon approaching the front of the church? Is it upon praying at the front of the church? Is it upon receiving a blessing from the pastor? The answer of course is none of those things.
Heightened emotions and spiritual change are very different things. Once the emotions are gone the person, at worst, may experience no spiritual change whatsoever, or at best, has no understanding at all of how Christ has saved us--without our help at all. It is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Sandy Fiedler* has put it this way, "The emphasis in the church had been placed on the preaching of the Word because the Calvinistic ministers had confidence that the Word would do its work. They preached with prayer and intelligence — expository, systematic, exegetical, doctrinal, structural, applicatory, practical, evangelistic, persuasive sermons — not a rambling about financial prosperity and end times like we sometimes hear today, neither of which deals with the centrality of Christianity. They drove home to the congregations that the power and riches of the Word of God could not be exhausted in a thousand lifetimes.
The new measures went hand in hand with a shift in theology — from Calvinism to Arminianism that took the process of conversion from the sovereign hand of God and put it into the hands of the preachers and respondents. In the old way, it was left to God to move and look upon the hidden heart and for Him to judge. In the new way [Finney's Arminian Theology], for the first time in church history, winning souls was seen as man’s work and he needed an outward sign to judge the results.
The old way held the process of conversion in great awe and reverence. It meant more than getting a ticket to heaven. It involved a total moral transformation of man’s nature from death to life, holy living, purposing entirely to glorify God. The new way, on the other hand, taught that conversion was an act of man’s mind and will. It was instant and easy, rather like deciding to make a purchase. Many who made this "decision" left the church with the attitude that "there is nothing to it." And their lives were not changed."
The altar call has confused many Christians. It is flashy and therefore has attracted many people to come to church, but has corrupted them at the same time. It teaches a false doctrine of salvation. The focus in Church should be on God, not an individual, be it the pastor or anyone else. What good is it to get people in Church only to mislead them?
Our "answer" to the altar call should be, "No, thank you. This practice is contrary to God's Word."
*I do not necessarily agree with the Theology or Ideology of Sandy Fiedler.
Wikipedia says this:
"An altar call is a practice in some evangelical churches in which those who wish to make a new spiritual commitment to Jesus Christ are invited to come forward publicly. It is so named because the supplicants gather at the altar located at the front of the church.
Most altar calls occur at the end of an evangelical address. The invitation may be referred to as an "altar call" even if there is no actual altar present. Many preachers make use of the altar call, notably Billy Graham, Benny Hinn, Franklin Graham, Reinhardt Bonnke, and so on. Those that come forward will usually be asked to recite a sinner's prayer, thereby making a confession of their new faith. They may also be offered literature or counselling and other assistance in their new faith.
It is sometimes said that those who come forth are going to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior. This is a ritual in which the supplicant makes a prayer asking for his sins to be forgiven, and pledges his devotion to Jesus.
Altar calls may also invite Christians to come forward for specific purposes other than conversion; for example to rededicate their lives after a lapse, to request publicly to be baptized, or to receive a particular blessing (such as gifts of the Holy Spirit) or if they are called to certain tasks such as missionary work...."
Sounds good...at least at first glance.
The altar call was unheard of until a man named Charles Finney (August 29, 1792 - August 16, 1875), as a part of his "new measures," taught its practice.
Finney believed that a person gained salvation through deciding to accept Christ. This too was unheard of--mainly because it is anti-scriptural (See post entitled "Decision Theology"). So the altar call was instated for people to publicly become Christians.
In order to get people to "answer" the altar call and come before the church, strong emotions were invoked. Once a person entered a heightened state of emotion he or she would be motivated to come forth to decide to accept Christ and therefore be saved (i.e. gain salvation).
At what point is the person saved? Is it upon approaching the front of the church? Is it upon praying at the front of the church? Is it upon receiving a blessing from the pastor? The answer of course is none of those things.
Heightened emotions and spiritual change are very different things. Once the emotions are gone the person, at worst, may experience no spiritual change whatsoever, or at best, has no understanding at all of how Christ has saved us--without our help at all. It is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Sandy Fiedler* has put it this way, "The emphasis in the church had been placed on the preaching of the Word because the Calvinistic ministers had confidence that the Word would do its work. They preached with prayer and intelligence — expository, systematic, exegetical, doctrinal, structural, applicatory, practical, evangelistic, persuasive sermons — not a rambling about financial prosperity and end times like we sometimes hear today, neither of which deals with the centrality of Christianity. They drove home to the congregations that the power and riches of the Word of God could not be exhausted in a thousand lifetimes.
The new measures went hand in hand with a shift in theology — from Calvinism to Arminianism that took the process of conversion from the sovereign hand of God and put it into the hands of the preachers and respondents. In the old way, it was left to God to move and look upon the hidden heart and for Him to judge. In the new way [Finney's Arminian Theology], for the first time in church history, winning souls was seen as man’s work and he needed an outward sign to judge the results.
The old way held the process of conversion in great awe and reverence. It meant more than getting a ticket to heaven. It involved a total moral transformation of man’s nature from death to life, holy living, purposing entirely to glorify God. The new way, on the other hand, taught that conversion was an act of man’s mind and will. It was instant and easy, rather like deciding to make a purchase. Many who made this "decision" left the church with the attitude that "there is nothing to it." And their lives were not changed."
The altar call has confused many Christians. It is flashy and therefore has attracted many people to come to church, but has corrupted them at the same time. It teaches a false doctrine of salvation. The focus in Church should be on God, not an individual, be it the pastor or anyone else. What good is it to get people in Church only to mislead them?
Our "answer" to the altar call should be, "No, thank you. This practice is contrary to God's Word."
*I do not necessarily agree with the Theology or Ideology of Sandy Fiedler.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Dispensationalist Millennialism
The following link is a tremendous treatment of the millennialist movement. This is an increasingly important issue as so many church bodies and especially liberal theologians are endorsing it. One of the largest church bodies within Christianity is teaching this to its adherents. Millennialism is very confusing and scary. So what exactly will the "end times" be like? This study explains in very clear and unmistakable terms.
http://www.scholia.net/files/pauls/42%20The%20End%20-%20Study%20on%20End%20Times%20for%20Youth%20and%20Parents.pdf
http://www.scholia.net/files/pauls/42%20The%20End%20-%20Study%20on%20End%20Times%20for%20Youth%20and%20Parents.pdf
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Guess what I found today? Installment 3
Today I found a half eaten container of yogurt. The truth is the container was full. It had about a million ants in it!
Do People Become Angels Upon Death?
It's often said of a loved one that, "He has his wings now," or something to the effect of becoming an angel.
This is plainly anti-scriptural. God created man. God created the angels. The number of angels is fixed. Two-thirds of which reside in Heaven with God.
To believe that people become angels is to believe that we change species at death!
Some find it comforting to believe that we become angels. However, it is more comforting to believe that we do not become angels. Humans are God's most special creation. Nothing is more special to God than a person.
This is plainly anti-scriptural. God created man. God created the angels. The number of angels is fixed. Two-thirds of which reside in Heaven with God.
To believe that people become angels is to believe that we change species at death!
Some find it comforting to believe that we become angels. However, it is more comforting to believe that we do not become angels. Humans are God's most special creation. Nothing is more special to God than a person.
Can People in Heaven See Us?
There many mixed beliefs about this. And, to my knowledge, no proofs for any of them.
I believe that people in Heaven cannot see us. Here is why: there is no pain in heaven. Heaven is perfect in every way. If those in Heaven could see us, they would see us in pain and misery, which is impossible. So logically I can't believe that people in Heaven can see us.
I believe that people in Heaven cannot see us. Here is why: there is no pain in heaven. Heaven is perfect in every way. If those in Heaven could see us, they would see us in pain and misery, which is impossible. So logically I can't believe that people in Heaven can see us.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Guess what I found today? Installment 2
Today I found the cat in my oldest daughter's dresser drawer.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
Kerygmatic Statement
Man committed sin. (Gen. 3:17-19)
Man fell into sinfull nature. (Rom. 5:12)
The penalty for sin is death. (Rom. 5:12)
God became incarnate as man. (Luke 1:35; Matt. 1:18-25)
Jesus, who is God incarnate, lived a perfect, sinless life. (Col. 1:22)
Jesus died even though he was sinless. (Heb. 7:26)
His death must be a penalty for sin, and so it was the penalty for our sin. (Gal. 3:13)
We are atoned for by His perfect life and death. (Gal. 4:4-7)
Thus we may have salvation.
Man fell into sinfull nature. (Rom. 5:12)
The penalty for sin is death. (Rom. 5:12)
God became incarnate as man. (Luke 1:35; Matt. 1:18-25)
Jesus, who is God incarnate, lived a perfect, sinless life. (Col. 1:22)
Jesus died even though he was sinless. (Heb. 7:26)
His death must be a penalty for sin, and so it was the penalty for our sin. (Gal. 3:13)
We are atoned for by His perfect life and death. (Gal. 4:4-7)
Thus we may have salvation.
Faith and Theology: Nobody knows who I am till the judgement morning
If you have ever asked "Who am I?" or know someone who has lost touch with his or her self, please read this article by Ben Myers. It is very touching.
Faith and Theology: Nobody knows who I am till the judgement morning
Faith and Theology: Nobody knows who I am till the judgement morning
Monday, March 16, 2009
Faith and Theology: Liturgical giggling
This article from Faith and Theology hit very close to home for me. I find myself suppressing liturgical giggles from time to time. It's very easy to find humor when it is inappropriate to laugh. For example, I sometimes wonder what would happen if I jumped up and started acting crazy. Or perhaps I think of a joke at an inappropriate time. Sometimes I wonder if I sat in the back pew and rolled a marble to the front of the church, how far would it make it before stopping and would anyone notice. Such things make me have to suppress a laugh.
Faith and Theology: Liturgical giggling
Faith and Theology: Liturgical giggling
Thursday, March 12, 2009
St. Patrick
We all know St. Patrick as the guy who preached to the Irish. Visions of leprechauns, clover, and Irish bars come to mind and everything in green. So who actually was this guy and why is he worthy of sainthood?
The story begins with Patrick's childhood. Patrick, was born in Britain. He was the son of a tax collector. As a child, he was kidnapped by Irish slave traders. He was taken to Ireland where he served as a slave for six years. During his time as a slave he began to pray. Prior to living in Ireland he did not believe in God. Some accounts say that Patrick would pray a hundred time a day or continuously through his waking hours.
His last night as a slave he heard the voice of Christ. Patrick reports that Christ told him that his ship was ready. Perplexed, Patrick began walking. He knew not where to go, but went nonetheless. After some 200 miles he came to an inlet with a ship leaving. Thus Patrick escaped slavery and returned to Britain. This story is quite remarkable as it is highly improbable for a slave to travel such a distance unnoticed or without being stopped, much less gaining entry to the ship.
As an adult, Patrick studied in Gaul for the priesthood. He eventually became a bishop. He returned to Ireland, at the time a pagan nation. He is essentially responsible for converted all of Ireland to Christianity. He came to love Ireland and its people with such ferocity that he identified himself with Ireland completely. He considered himself Irish. All this from a man who was kidnapped by the Irish and forced into slavery as a child.
Patrick had such a love for Christ and His people that he could truly love his enemies. Converting an entire country is quite remarkable in itself. Given Patrick's history with that country adds a depth that is difficult to comprehend.
Christ's love shone through Patrick to the world. This is what makes him so great.
The story begins with Patrick's childhood. Patrick, was born in Britain. He was the son of a tax collector. As a child, he was kidnapped by Irish slave traders. He was taken to Ireland where he served as a slave for six years. During his time as a slave he began to pray. Prior to living in Ireland he did not believe in God. Some accounts say that Patrick would pray a hundred time a day or continuously through his waking hours.
His last night as a slave he heard the voice of Christ. Patrick reports that Christ told him that his ship was ready. Perplexed, Patrick began walking. He knew not where to go, but went nonetheless. After some 200 miles he came to an inlet with a ship leaving. Thus Patrick escaped slavery and returned to Britain. This story is quite remarkable as it is highly improbable for a slave to travel such a distance unnoticed or without being stopped, much less gaining entry to the ship.
As an adult, Patrick studied in Gaul for the priesthood. He eventually became a bishop. He returned to Ireland, at the time a pagan nation. He is essentially responsible for converted all of Ireland to Christianity. He came to love Ireland and its people with such ferocity that he identified himself with Ireland completely. He considered himself Irish. All this from a man who was kidnapped by the Irish and forced into slavery as a child.
Patrick had such a love for Christ and His people that he could truly love his enemies. Converting an entire country is quite remarkable in itself. Given Patrick's history with that country adds a depth that is difficult to comprehend.
Christ's love shone through Patrick to the world. This is what makes him so great.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Christian View of Interracial Relationships
The Holy Scriptures clearly forbid all forms of racism. God created all men. And all men are descended from one man. Further, "The dignity of all human beings is given by God, not achieved or earned," as the LCMS president A.L. Barry has said. Barry also stated, "Any and all attempts to identify certain people or groups as some how lesser members of humankind are therefore a blasphemous affront to our Creator."
All men are created in God's image (Gen. 1:26-28). All men are identified with Christ. "Racism grounds the identity and security of human life in self rather than God, in creature rather than the Creator, apart from whom a human being has no identity or security. Self-indulgent pride in "race," therefore, must be regarded as idolatry in one of its crassest forms," says Barry. Thus, we can see the true danger of racism in all of its forms. Racism endangers our very souls.
Christ died for all men equally.
As for interracial marriages, we must again see every person as being in the image of God - valued through God in his identity with God and not distinguished or set apart by any physical characteristic.
We can also look to the book of Ruth, among other things. Ruth, the great-grandmother of King David, was a foreigner. Ruth was a Moabitess. Moabites were looked down upon by other races. Yet Christ specifically identifies Himself with David's line and therefore, Ruth. Yes, David was of mixed blood, so to speak. And our Savior identifies Himself with that line.
It is morally and ethically acceptable to have an interracial marriage. Anything to the contrary is ethically wrong from the Christian perspective and is a form of racism of which President Barry so eloquently warns.
All men are created in God's image (Gen. 1:26-28). All men are identified with Christ. "Racism grounds the identity and security of human life in self rather than God, in creature rather than the Creator, apart from whom a human being has no identity or security. Self-indulgent pride in "race," therefore, must be regarded as idolatry in one of its crassest forms," says Barry. Thus, we can see the true danger of racism in all of its forms. Racism endangers our very souls.
Christ died for all men equally.
As for interracial marriages, we must again see every person as being in the image of God - valued through God in his identity with God and not distinguished or set apart by any physical characteristic.
We can also look to the book of Ruth, among other things. Ruth, the great-grandmother of King David, was a foreigner. Ruth was a Moabitess. Moabites were looked down upon by other races. Yet Christ specifically identifies Himself with David's line and therefore, Ruth. Yes, David was of mixed blood, so to speak. And our Savior identifies Himself with that line.
It is morally and ethically acceptable to have an interracial marriage. Anything to the contrary is ethically wrong from the Christian perspective and is a form of racism of which President Barry so eloquently warns.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Confessional Church
Confessional Churches are Church bodies that require the confession of certain beliefs or doctrines. For example, the Lutheran Church is a confessional Church so each individual church must adhere to and teach the beliefs of the Lutheran Church as a whole. No matter which church you attend, whether in New York, California, Russia, or South Africa you will hear and learn essentially the same things.
The benefit of this uniformity is to be certain of what is being taught. The pastors or teachers cannot teach anything contrary to the Lutheran belief system. This leaves no room for people to make things up as they go or make erroneous assumptions. The things being taught have been agreed upon by thousands of formally educated Lutherans throughout the world.
In a Confessional Church, you have thousands of pastors making uniform decisions, not just one.
What exactly do Lutherans confess?
First and formost the infallible Word of God as recorded in the Scriptures
The Ecumenical Creeds
The Augsburg Confession
The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
The Small Catechism
The Large Catechism
The Smalcald Articles
The Epitome of the Formula of Concord
The Solid Declaration of the Formula of Concord
The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope
The benefit of this uniformity is to be certain of what is being taught. The pastors or teachers cannot teach anything contrary to the Lutheran belief system. This leaves no room for people to make things up as they go or make erroneous assumptions. The things being taught have been agreed upon by thousands of formally educated Lutherans throughout the world.
In a Confessional Church, you have thousands of pastors making uniform decisions, not just one.
What exactly do Lutherans confess?
First and formost the infallible Word of God as recorded in the Scriptures
The Ecumenical Creeds
The Augsburg Confession
The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
The Small Catechism
The Large Catechism
The Smalcald Articles
The Epitome of the Formula of Concord
The Solid Declaration of the Formula of Concord
The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope
Pizza or Lasagna?
What's better pizza or lasagna? This is very tough decision. Initially, I say lasagna. It tastes better. However, pizza is more nutritious and has a greater variety of options. Also, you can eat pizza hot or cold. More people like pizza. Well, lasagna tastes better! So, rethink pizza people! Lasagna is better.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Theological Sites
Here are some of my favorite theological sites:
LCMS http://www.lcms.org/
official site of Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Project Wittenberg www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/wittenberg/wittenberg-home.html
works by and about Martin Luther
Issues, Etc. http://www.issuesetc.org/
various Christian issues, etc.
Scholia http://www.scholia.net/
resource site for visitors, vicars, parishioners, pastors, teachers, chaplains, parents, homeschoolers, seminarians and congregations
Lutheran Confessions http://www.bookofconcord.org/
the Book of Concord
Youth E-Source http://www.youthesource.com/
Lutheran Hymnal http://www.lutheran-hymnal.com/
Concordia Historical Institute http://chi.lcms.org/
LCMS department of Archives and History
Concordia Publishing House www.cph.org/cphstore/default.asp?ct=true
LCMS bookstore
Logia Journal http://www.logia.org/
journal of Lutheran Theology
Higher Things Magazine for teens http://www.higherthings.org/
Lutheran Hour radio http://www.lutheranhour.org/
KFUO radio http://www.kfuo.org/
e-sword free Bible software http://www.e-sword.net/
free Bible software which includes numerous translations, commentaries, Bible dictionaries, maps, charts, and much more
Focus on the Family http://www.focusonthefamily.com/
Christian family website
Audio Bible www.audio-bible.com/bible/bible.html
listen to the Bible for free
Talking Scriptures.com http://www.talkingscriptures.com/
Bible studies
LCMS http://www.lcms.org/
official site of Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
Project Wittenberg www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/wittenberg/wittenberg-home.html
works by and about Martin Luther
Issues, Etc. http://www.issuesetc.org/
various Christian issues, etc.
Scholia http://www.scholia.net/
resource site for visitors, vicars, parishioners, pastors, teachers, chaplains, parents, homeschoolers, seminarians and congregations
Lutheran Confessions http://www.bookofconcord.org/
the Book of Concord
Youth E-Source http://www.youthesource.com/
Lutheran Hymnal http://www.lutheran-hymnal.com/
Concordia Historical Institute http://chi.lcms.org/
LCMS department of Archives and History
Concordia Publishing House www.cph.org/cphstore/default.asp?ct=true
LCMS bookstore
Logia Journal http://www.logia.org/
journal of Lutheran Theology
Higher Things Magazine for teens http://www.higherthings.org/
Lutheran Hour radio http://www.lutheranhour.org/
KFUO radio http://www.kfuo.org/
e-sword free Bible software http://www.e-sword.net/
free Bible software which includes numerous translations, commentaries, Bible dictionaries, maps, charts, and much more
Focus on the Family http://www.focusonthefamily.com/
Christian family website
Audio Bible www.audio-bible.com/bible/bible.html
listen to the Bible for free
Talking Scriptures.com http://www.talkingscriptures.com/
Bible studies
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Once Saved, Always Saved?
No doubt, you've heard it asked, "Are you saved?" or "When were you saved?" And all to often you'll hear a response like, "I was saved back in '78."
First of all, no one was saved back in '78." Salvation is a gift of God--God alone. No decision a person makes can facilitate salvation. (Please see post entitled "Decision Theology").
Some believe that once a person is saved, that person can never lose their salvation. The second clause in this belief is often contingent upon an erroneous first clause. Let's give the benefit of the doubt and assume a correct assumption of the nature of salvation (again, see "Decision Theology").
The question then must be, "Can a person lose salvation?"
If not, then Christ becomes a disposable need. Use Him once and you're done needing Him. Some will argue that we still need Him to guide and teach us. But I ask, why? If your salvation is sealed and secured why do need guidance. You don't. Essentially, you could do whatever and it wouldn't matter ultimately. Get saved and then become a hateful mass murderer. It's not impossible; it's happened to people before.
One of the greatest theologians of the modern era, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, wrote extensively on the topic in a book entitled "Cheap Grace." The name may give away Bonhoeffer's position.
Consider the verses: 1 Cor. 10:12; 1 Peter 5:8; 2 Peter 3:17; Heb. 2:1-3; Heb. 12-19. All attest to the fact that we can fall out of salvation.
How then do we regain our salvation? The LCMS says it this way, "A person can be restored to faith in the same way he or she came to faith in the first place: by repenting of his or her sin and unbelief and trusting completely in the life, death and resurrection of Christ alone for forgiveness and salvation.
Whenever a person does repent and believe, this always takes place by the grace of God alone and by the power of the Holy Spirit working through God's Word in a persons heart."
First of all, no one was saved back in '78." Salvation is a gift of God--God alone. No decision a person makes can facilitate salvation. (Please see post entitled "Decision Theology").
Some believe that once a person is saved, that person can never lose their salvation. The second clause in this belief is often contingent upon an erroneous first clause. Let's give the benefit of the doubt and assume a correct assumption of the nature of salvation (again, see "Decision Theology").
The question then must be, "Can a person lose salvation?"
If not, then Christ becomes a disposable need. Use Him once and you're done needing Him. Some will argue that we still need Him to guide and teach us. But I ask, why? If your salvation is sealed and secured why do need guidance. You don't. Essentially, you could do whatever and it wouldn't matter ultimately. Get saved and then become a hateful mass murderer. It's not impossible; it's happened to people before.
One of the greatest theologians of the modern era, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, wrote extensively on the topic in a book entitled "Cheap Grace." The name may give away Bonhoeffer's position.
Consider the verses: 1 Cor. 10:12; 1 Peter 5:8; 2 Peter 3:17; Heb. 2:1-3; Heb. 12-19. All attest to the fact that we can fall out of salvation.
How then do we regain our salvation? The LCMS says it this way, "A person can be restored to faith in the same way he or she came to faith in the first place: by repenting of his or her sin and unbelief and trusting completely in the life, death and resurrection of Christ alone for forgiveness and salvation.
Whenever a person does repent and believe, this always takes place by the grace of God alone and by the power of the Holy Spirit working through God's Word in a persons heart."
Monday, February 2, 2009
Poison Oak
I've recently conducted a study on Poison Oak.
Poison Oak can affect you any time of the year. Leaves do not have to be present in order to take effect. The leafless stem of the plant will get the job done just fine.
This study consisted of taking one goat and placing him in a large area of Poison Oak. The animal did, in fact, eat the leaves of the poison; however, the plant was not eliminated and continued to be potent.
For more information click here.
Poison Oak can affect you any time of the year. Leaves do not have to be present in order to take effect. The leafless stem of the plant will get the job done just fine.
This study consisted of taking one goat and placing him in a large area of Poison Oak. The animal did, in fact, eat the leaves of the poison; however, the plant was not eliminated and continued to be potent.
For more information click here.
Friday, January 30, 2009
clerkdogs.com
clerkdogs.com is a great site for those who love movies. It is developed upon movie recommendations by video clerks. It recommends movies based on your likes and your current mood. If you have Netflix, you should definitely check this site out.
Decision Theology
One of the most prevalent issues in the modern Church is Decision Theology. Decision Theology states that in order to be saved (obtain eternal salvation) one must decide to accept Christ Jesus as one's personal Savior.
Why should this be a topic of controversy? All Christians uphold the fact that Christ Jesus is necessary for life everlasting. Let us take a closer look.
Jesus says, "You do not choose me, but I chose you..." (John 15:16). Further, Scripture tells us that all people are spiritually dead by nature (Eph. 2:1-3). If one is spiritually dead, how can one make a spiritual decision to live. The dead do not decide to live. The Bible goes on to say, "No one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:3, also see John 6:44). Conversion is done by the Holy Spirit. God alone saves. To contradict this is to say that we are saved--at least in part--by works and not solely God's grace. In no way do we save ourselves through any decision or by any other means.
How then are we saved? We are saved by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Faith, like grace, is a gift of God (Eph. 2:8-9). We do not deserve it. No decision or action can help us to deserve it. A person does not choose to believe.
Does this mean that everyone believes and is automatically saved? In a word, no. Once faith is bestowed upon us, we have the free will to deny God's Word and reject God's grace. (This leads to a topic to be discussed later. It shall be called "Once Saved, Always Saved?")
So, if we have free will, and can decide to reject, why do we not also have the free will to accept? This is a very simple matter that often confuses people greatly. The answer is this, you can't accept something that you already have. For example, you have a nose (that is, most likely, and if not then just pretend that you do). It's already there. God gave it to you. You never decided to accept it, but it is there nonetheless. However, you can decide to deny yourself that luxury. You can have your nose removed. You can reject having a nose and all that is does. (If this seems too silly, you can substitute an arm or whatever).
Decision Theology is contrary to God's Word. It was started by a man named Charles Finney (8/29/1792 -8/16/1875) . Charles Finney affirmed that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, but also stated that we must accept Christ of our own free will in order to have faith by which to be saved (yes, he was self-contradicting). He did not understand that faith is a gift of God. And so, this was how he attempted to justify salvation through faith. I, personally, am amazed at how far reaching this obvious false doctrine has become.
Why should this be a topic of controversy? All Christians uphold the fact that Christ Jesus is necessary for life everlasting. Let us take a closer look.
Jesus says, "You do not choose me, but I chose you..." (John 15:16). Further, Scripture tells us that all people are spiritually dead by nature (Eph. 2:1-3). If one is spiritually dead, how can one make a spiritual decision to live. The dead do not decide to live. The Bible goes on to say, "No one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:3, also see John 6:44). Conversion is done by the Holy Spirit. God alone saves. To contradict this is to say that we are saved--at least in part--by works and not solely God's grace. In no way do we save ourselves through any decision or by any other means.
How then are we saved? We are saved by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Faith, like grace, is a gift of God (Eph. 2:8-9). We do not deserve it. No decision or action can help us to deserve it. A person does not choose to believe.
Does this mean that everyone believes and is automatically saved? In a word, no. Once faith is bestowed upon us, we have the free will to deny God's Word and reject God's grace. (This leads to a topic to be discussed later. It shall be called "Once Saved, Always Saved?")
So, if we have free will, and can decide to reject, why do we not also have the free will to accept? This is a very simple matter that often confuses people greatly. The answer is this, you can't accept something that you already have. For example, you have a nose (that is, most likely, and if not then just pretend that you do). It's already there. God gave it to you. You never decided to accept it, but it is there nonetheless. However, you can decide to deny yourself that luxury. You can have your nose removed. You can reject having a nose and all that is does. (If this seems too silly, you can substitute an arm or whatever).
Decision Theology is contrary to God's Word. It was started by a man named Charles Finney (8/29/1792 -8/16/1875) . Charles Finney affirmed that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, but also stated that we must accept Christ of our own free will in order to have faith by which to be saved (yes, he was self-contradicting). He did not understand that faith is a gift of God. And so, this was how he attempted to justify salvation through faith. I, personally, am amazed at how far reaching this obvious false doctrine has become.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
What the heck is Oppshom?
Oppshom is a word my oldest daughter used to say all the time when she was a baby. We still don't know what it means, but I like the way it sounds.
If you've heard it before, then you've heard it from either Runescape or Travian. I'm not on Runescape anymore, but as of now I am still on Travian.
If you've heard it before, then you've heard it from either Runescape or Travian. I'm not on Runescape anymore, but as of now I am still on Travian.
About Me
I live in Taylorsville, a small town nestled in the foothills of North Carolina.
I'm in my mid-to-upper twenties.
I'm male.
I am married and have three children.
I love God.
I love my family.
I love the NFL.
My favorite cuisines are American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, and I love seafood.
I love Mountain Dew.
My favorite authors are God, Martin Luther, St. Augustin, St. Thomas Aquinas, C.S. Lewis, and John Grisham.
My favorite teams are Detriot Lions (NFL), Carolina Panthers (NFL), Los Angelas Kings (NHL), and the Atlanta Braves (MLB).
I'm in my mid-to-upper twenties.
I'm male.
I am married and have three children.
I love God.
I love my family.
I love the NFL.
My favorite cuisines are American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, and I love seafood.
I love Mountain Dew.
My favorite authors are God, Martin Luther, St. Augustin, St. Thomas Aquinas, C.S. Lewis, and John Grisham.
My favorite teams are Detriot Lions (NFL), Carolina Panthers (NFL), Los Angelas Kings (NHL), and the Atlanta Braves (MLB).
Friday, January 23, 2009
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