Christian Worldview & Politics - The World or Christ?

 

Christians are Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God

Politics is the ultimate in Spiritual exercise. You are either living according to the politics of this World or the Politics of God.

God's Politics & the World's Politics have been merged.

Most have no clue that there is a dichotomy of politics. Most professing Christians think that their participation in World politics is their duty from the Bible. The idea that the World has its own politics separate from the politics of God has never entered their mind. 

Yet the Bible speaks clearly if we would but listen and study it free from any preconceptions.

Many Christians seem to be Ambassadors for America!

As Ambassadors for Christ, we need to understand our duties to those living on this earth. First of all, we are citizens of heaven. We are literal citizens of a literal place, having obtained this new status when we came to Jesus in Faith and repentance. And as an Ambassador, our allegiance is to the government of the Kingdom of God we now represent to this World, who need the message of Jesus' salvation we have come to possess.

Taking the Government of America Back? Why would we accept such a demotion, seeing that we are high ranking officials in the Government of the King of the Universe?

ESPN, Tolerance, God & Gay Pride - A Salute to Chris Broussard

ESPN's Chris Broussard speaks candidly!

 On the heels of the earth-shaking revelation from NBA player Jason Collins that he is gay, that he prefers to have sex with other men, comes even more eye opening comments from Chris Broussard, ESPN sportscaster / commentator. Broussard, a born again Christian, says that anyone who is dedicated to having sex with other men is "in rebellion against God."

Current NBA Free Agent Jason Collins

This whole episode began with Sports Illustrated's article on Collins' "coming out" earlier in the week, considered by some, including Jason Collins, as the first ever for an active player in professional sports, Martina Navratilova notwithstanding.

I personally offer a salute to Chris Broussard, not for his comments about the lifestyle choice of Jason Collins, but for his straightforward response to this whole episode and not being afraid to articulate, explain and clarify his personal beliefs. Many Christians in this country could learn much from this man, for he has put his job on the  line by speaking up. Whatever happens, I pray that God would continue to bless him and that Broussard would continue the good fight of faith for his Lord. I also pray that Jason Collins would come to know the Lord Jesus in a personal way. Maybe Broussard could help with that , too!

Tolerating Truth in America - The Bible, Jesus & Judging Others in a Plural Society

In this day when it's almost impossible to make a definitive statement about any topic without upsetting a significant demographic, tolerance is the operative word. Any and all statements which tend to draw conclusions not arrived at by cultural consensus is deemed to be worthy of nothing more than being discarded to the trash heap of distasteful dialogue, hate speech and verbal abortion.

Ken Ham - Answers in Genesis

 Into this societal fray steps Ken Ham, Founder of the apologetics ministry, Answers In Genesis. His article about the Bible and Judging others is a fitting tribute to the veracity of the Word of God for our lives as well as a balanced view of the Bible and it's apparent contradictions.

Increasingly, professing Christians that are dedicated to the notion that the Written Word of God is the standard for man to live by are becoming a target for intolerant attitudes and words. Politically speaking, some have even made the lists of those considered by Government as "Terrorists." American Culture is headed forward with the idea that such parameters are, indeed, not needed or wanted by a society whose truth is determined by the individual, as long as it agrees with a predetermined cultural consensus by the powers that be. As a part of this pre-arranged societal standard, the Bible and its clear statements about life are not to be a candidate for inclusion. It has been rejected. And increasingly, so are those who believe it.

Christian Worldview - Contemplative Spirituality for the World

In this age of instant everything, any process that promises anything other than instantaneous delivery is looked on with an ample amount of negativity. Waiting is undesirable and, essentially, not an option in the lives of most.

Looking inward and beyond

This fact is becoming more evident in the spiritual activities and desires of many. In the quest to become one with the cosmos and self (considered by many to be one and the same), all things that promise instant spiritual transformation, experiences and and altered reality are considered legitimate prospects for incorporating into daily life.

Contemplative spirituality and it's related practices have become the spirituality of choice for many. The adherents to these disciplines cross denominational, religious, cultural and national barriers, and even include those who have previously warned about them. The proponents specifically point out their applicability to all religious faiths and mindsets.

While many of the tenets sound great, especially to the uninitiated, the true seeker of Truth will find the Bible lacking in its agreement with many, probably most, of its teachings and practices. Of course, to know this requires a certain amount of time in study of the Bible in order to arrive at some basic conclusions, which is a negative for the instant guru at heart.

God's Ways for Man are different than man's way for man.

Rather than seek the mind of God on any subject, many tend to find the mind that agrees with their own mind and ideas. So tenets, practices and teachings that make sense to the common man are chosen to pursue.

So, instead of pursuing and adopting God's Ways and Thoughts for our life, many are putting into practice ways and thoughts that God doesn't agree with. They are, many times, those of their own heart or the Enemy of God, Satan. They usually are in agreement with each other in their opposition to God and his thoughts and ways. Unfortunately, as popular as they are, they ultimately lead to spiritual death. Many are headed down this path.

Christian Worldview - Cowards for Jesus

Modern Christians, in their quest to be salt and light within the cultures of this world, have taken on a quality that never befits their Savior.

The idea that it is necessary for this world to speak well of them has left them afraid to speak the Truth lest they be accused of being hateful, insensitive, judgmental, unloving, etc. Simply put, many of God's people have become cowards.  They have become what Christ would never approve of.

Oh, don't get me wrong. Many have social causes for which they take a stand on. They do this with words and actions. These causes may also have religious terms associated with them, so their duty toward God and the Church is somehow fulfilled in their mind.

But to actually speak and act the Words of Jesus as recorded in the Bible is somehow deemed to be taking Religion and God a little bit too seriously. Only the self-righteous and overly pious person follows such a path. So, reforming this world one community at a time is the preferred method. Preaching the Gospel has somehow taken a back seat to more socially acceptable activities and messages.

The idea that Man is a sinner is negative. The idea that man is powerless to help himself and needs to look beyond himself to remedy his dire situation offends man's dignity. That man is doomed to eternal punishment for his choices against a holy and righteous God and Creator is the myth of ancient, unenlightened ages gone by. The idea that a Holy God would take on the body of a man and accomplish perfection on behalf of mankind and make it possible to be reconciled to God is also offensive to the abilities within mankind to help himself. The belief in the bloody and violent death of this Savior that God requires for mankind to approach God in fellowship is considered to also constitute the vestiges of unenlightened, barbaric man. It is rejected.

Portrait of Modern Christians

So, what are modern Christians left with? One look in the mirror would reveal the same cowardice of the Lion in the Wizard of Oz - afraid to gaze at himself, trembling at the mere thought of thinking a thought, afraid that his actions will not measure up to what others think and expect, running in every other direction than that direction which call for courageous responsibility, duty and action according to the Word of God. I see a whole host of such characters when viewing the mobs that call themselves "Christian."

What a shame!

Christian Worldview - Does the Bible Really Matter?

Well Ken Ham has done it again! Christians everywhere are upset with this noted apologist because he dared to tell the truth....again. Last year, it was challenging Bill Nye the Science Guy to a debate after Nye made disparaging comments about the literal Creation account and those who believe it. Now, Genesis creation is again involved, but on a different front.

Ken Ham - Teaches a Literal Genesis Creation

 It must be admitted, though, that this time was a little different. He was a little too specific for the comfort of many. The specifics involved particular people. Ham named them!

So, now many are attempting to calm the rocking boat amidst this tempest of truth from one known for relying on the Bible for his doctrine and lifestyle.

The problem? Ken Ham named those who have publicly, verbally and in their writings, denied a literal six day creation as detailed in the first part of the Book of Genesis. Coupled with that assertion is the belief that Genesis only has doctrinal value in the allegorical interpretation of the stories in the book of Genesis rather than the literal  historical narrative account.

Ken is to be commended for taking the proper stand on such a vital issue. We need more men like him in this day of relativistic teachings coming from pulpit, podiums and publications!

Texas Secession - Obama's Permission Required?

With Permission?

Texas bravado's most recent installation of bigger has turned out to be nothing more than the biggest political whimper since the surrender of Robert E. Lee. With the news of Obama's reelection, a petition to secede from the Union was almost immediately posted upon the White House Official Website that carries a promise to respond with a minimum of 25,000 signatures within a certain time. That time was easily met and the petition now stands at more than 110,000 signatures.

Here's the joke. The Petition, as detailed in this article from the Fort-Worth Star Telegram, asks the Federal Government to "peacefully grant" secession to the State of Texas! Can't you just hear the Texas Civil War Veterans howling from the grave? And this is supposed to be taken seriously? Asking permission to rebel?

I must admit to shaking my head about this. And the leaders of this movement are supposed to be taken seriously by their followers? If this is not a charade, then I don't know what is. And if others can't see through this half-hearted attempt to gain the attention of the Federal Government, as well as the World, then you deserve the disappointment and whatever else accompanies such a theatrical production as this.

ObamaCare & Hobby Lobby - Religious Rights or Legal Standing?

Obamacare Mandate has many in a Legal Uproar

With the highly publicized case of Hobby Lobby's fight against President Obama's Health Care mandate comes polarizing viewpoints, especially in the fight against Government oppression. Many are citing the American Revolution as a guide for the ultimate resolution of this dilemma; yes, physical violence is being ultimately advocated as the only measure for reasonable citizens against the tyranny of Obama and this direct attack upon religious liberties.

While many may engage in various amounts and types of debate over this issue, there is a fundamental issue that everyone needs to be aware of. It's a legal reality of established law that most have never thought of. It's the issue of status before the court and the rights of individuals before a court.

Many are screaming about fundamental rights being violated by government, in this case the rights of the owners of Hobby Lobby. It is presumed that Hobby Lobby is a duly formed Corporation. As such, all officers of a corporation have a different legal status than that of a natural person. A person acting as a corporate officer is not guaranteed the same rights as a natural person. Why? Well, let this portion of a well established case provide the reason.

 The individual may stand upon his constitutional rights as a citizen. He is entitled to carry on his private business in his own way. His power to contract is unlimited. He owes no duty to the State or to his neighbors to divulge his business, or to open his doors to an investigation, so far as it may tend to criminate him. He owes no such duty to the State, since he receives nothing therefrom beyond the protection of his life and property. His rights are such as existed by the law of the land long antecedent to the organization of the State, and can only be taken from him by due process of law, and in accordance with the Constitution. Among his rights are a refusal to incriminate himself and the immunity of himself and his property from arrest or seizure except under a warrant of the law. He owes nothing to the public so long as he does not trespass upon their rights.

Upon the other hand, the corporation is a creature of the State. It is presumed to be incorporated for the benefit of the public. It receives certain special privileges and franchises, and holds them subject to the laws of the State and the limitations of its charter. Its powers are limited by law. It can make no contract not authorized by its charter. Its rights to act as a corporation are only preserved to it so long as it obeys the laws of its creation. There is a reserved right in the legislature to investigate its contracts and find out whether it has exceeded its powers.

 Hale v. Henkel - 201 U.S. 43 (1906)

 Do you think this tidbit of legal information might make a difference when asserting that Constitutional rights have been violated?

As Christians, we need to make sure that we understand certain issues before we proceed blindly and end up suffering as evildoers, rather than as Christians for true righteousness.

Wild At Heart - Searching for Truth in All the Wrong Places

Wild at Heart - Discovering the Secret to a Man's Soul

 If you've ever read this book by John Eldridge and are familiar with the overall content and teaching of the Bible, then you know that is is severely lacking in biblical integrity. It fails miserably to identify the needs of men and God's provision for them as revealed in the Scriptures. This book is filled with nothing more than popular psychological philosophies merged with secular ideas and Bible verses. These ideas do nothing but destroy men and their loved ones.

For a more detailed analysis of this book, please visit Christian Worldview.

Beth Moore - Are We Listening to God's Written Revelation?

Beth Moore, as an extremely popular teacher of women, has repeatedly made an assertion in and about her life that she is attempting to make common with women everywhere. She asserts that she regularly has God "speak" to her and "reveal" things to her. She also shares the details of the practices that make these interactions with God possible.

Beth Moore - God speaks to her personally

What makes these claims so important is that these revelations form the basis for her writings and, subsequently, her speaking. And while, obviously being vital in their relation to the whole scope of her ministry, they are serious in another way. How many can claim to have God speak to them on a regular basis? How many can claim to speak and write as a direct result of God speaking to them? She is in essence claiming to speak and write the words of God. This is weighty, indeed!

For that matter, should we be so glib and lax in our approach to such claims? Should we be careful to make sure that what we are hearing and, maybe to put into practice in our own lives, is in reality, the Truth?

With that in mind, the words of God through the Prophet Isaiah are vital to us today in such a climate of competing voices and competing messages to us. Isaiah records in chapter 8 verse 20 the following; "To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

The prophet makes a vital connection between the Word of God and light. The Psalmist also makes the same connection when he says in chapter 119, verse 105, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Again in verse 130 he says, "The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple."

Let's make sure that the message we are hearing and following agrees with the Word of God, His light for us. Let's make sure that His message, as revealed in the written Word, is the standard for all other revelation, whether it be from man, woman, angel or any other being. May He guide us into all Truth!

Beth Moore - What's the Final Authority?

I previously posted a warning about popular women's speaker Beth Moore. I continue that warning here by linking to a short video segment of Moore beginning to talk about what God revealed to her about the body of Christ.

Popular Teacher - Beth Moore

In this post, I continue to voice my concern for those who may be swayed by the teachings of Moore and those she recommends and whose doctrine she espouses. Though containing many innocuous sounding biblical words and phrases that are linked to the activities she endorses and recommends, the practices must be examined. We should not be so quick to accept practices just because familiar terms are used to describe them.

Once again, we must be reminded that, whatever doctrine we are examining and whoever the person may be that presents a particular doctrine, the Word of God is to be the final authority to determine its correctness. To make this statement, I refer to this verse in Isaiah 8:20, "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

Know Your Teachers – Beth Moore, Brennan Manning & Others

In this age of having overwhelming amounts of information available at the click of a mouse, it’s easy to be presented quotes of popular personalities without knowing their underlying context. While sounding great on the surface and accepted easily by most, the reality of unseen origins lurks for only the dedicated seeker of Truth to discern.

This is the case for almost all of the currently popular Christian teachers and ministers of today. Interestingly, they all seem to promote practices using traditional Christian terminology and even Bible verses. A closer look, however, finds these ideas and practices cannot be supported by the totality of Scripture. In fact, Scripture specifically warns against them. Yet, these practices continue to be embraced and promoted.

The main area of concern is found within the teaching regarding Spiritual Transformation and Spiritual Formation and their emphasis on Contemplative Spiritually in the form of  contemplative or meditative prayer. 

Popular Southern Baptist Teacher - Beth Moore

 One of the more popular and widely known of these promoters among women is Beth Moore. In her book from 2002, When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, In a section about "Unceasing Prayer" Moore states: "I have picked up on the terminology of Brother Lawrence, who called praying unceasingly practicing God's presence. In fact, practicing God's presence has been my number one goal for the last year" (p. 109). In the DVD, Be Still,  Beth Moore states "If we are not still before Him, we will never truly know to the depths of the marrow of our bones that He is God. There's got to be a stillness."

While there are many other supporting and related statements that could be provided, we will focus on the origins of these statements and practices, which are openly mentioned in her writings and speeches. Probably the person most promoted by Beth Moore is Brennan Manning. Moore builds her case for contemplative practices in her frequent references to Manning in her book, suggesting that his contribution to "our generation of believers may be a gift without parallel" (p. 72).

Renegade Catholic Priest - Brennan Manning

Regarding prayer, Manning believes, “The first step in faith is to stop thinking about God at the time of prayer. Choose a single, sacred word or phrase that captures something of the flavor of your intimate relationship with God. A word such as Jesus, Abba, Peace, God or a phrase such as "Abba, I belong to you." ... Without moving your lips, repeat the sacred word inwardly, slowly, and often. When distractions come, ... simply return to listening to your sacred word.... [G]ently return [your mind] to your sacred word. (Brennan Manning)

The Biblically literate student quickly ascertains that this advice flies directly in the face of Jesus’ warning and instruction on prayer in Matthew 6:7, “But when ye pray, use not vain repetition as the heathen do:”

In Brennan Manning's 2003 book, Above All (foreword written by Michael W. Smith), Manning says the following: “The god whose moods alternate between graciousness and fierce anger ...the god who exacts the last drop of blood from his Son so that his just anger, evoked by sin, may be appeased, is not the God revealed by and in Jesus Christ. And if he is not the God of Jesus, he does not exist.” (p. 58-59) 

In case you didn’t catch that, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, specifically, the literal blood atonement by the literal sacrifice of Christ’s literal body for the literal sins of mankind, is specifically denied by Brennan Manning. Unfortunately, he is not alone among the proponents of Contemplative Spirituality in this belief.

Beth Moore also quotes Manning from his book Ragamuffin Gospel calling the book "one of the most remarkable books" (p. 290) she has ever read. But it is this very book that reveals Manning's true affinity with contemplative spirituality. In the back of the book, Manning makes reference to Basil Pennington saying that Pennington's methods will provide us with "a way of praying that leads to a deep living relationship with God." However, Pennington's methods of prayer draw from Eastern religions. In his book, Finding Grace at the Center, Pennington says: “We should not hesitate to take the fruit of the age-old wisdom of the East and "capture" it for Christ. Indeed, those of us who are in ministry should make the necessary effort to acquaint ourselves with as many of these Eastern techniques as possible. Many Christians who take their prayer life seriously have been greatly helped by Yoga, Zen, TM and similar practices.” 

In his book, Abba's Child, Manning says that Beatrice Bruteau is a "trustworthy guide to contemplative consciousness. Bruteau believes that God lives in all creation, stating: "We have realized ourselves as the Self that says only I AM, with no predicate following, not "I am a this" or "I have that quality." Only unlimited, absolute I AM.”

Do you remember the words of Jesus about the latter days saying that many would come in His name saying "I AM"? We are not to be deceived.

As stated earlier, this only begins to deal with the huge errors of belief and practice being currently taught by most ministers today. Unfortunately, their origin is not with God. It would be worth the time and effort for us to continually undertake the command of the Bible for those professing a genuine relationship with God through the Jesus described in Scripture to “examine yourself, whether you be in the faith.” II Corinthians 13:5

Christian Worldview - Are Christians to Suffer A Political Holocaust?

 

Note: This article was written during President Bush's Second Term

In this article from World Net Daily, Rabbi Daniel Lapin gives a stern warning to American Christians that there are concerted attempts to diminish or actually exterminate the influence and impact Christians have in the world today, especially in the political realm. He provides proof of this campaign by citing the many examples of books currently being published containing overt anti Christian rhetoric and bias.

So, presuming such a plan has been implemented, how is such a large campaign carried out to successful fruition? With hundreds of millions of Christians in the world and tens of millions in the United States and with an Evangelical Christian as President in George W. Bush, how does one eliminate such a large population group? Is it possible that a worldwide holocaust is about to begin? I admit that such a thought seems out of the realm of possibility in such a civilized era such as ours, but do we dare eliminate this possibility, seeing that we are only 60 years removed from the human blight of Adolf Hitler?

Even now, the world is being warned of the potential repercussions of Europe's rejection of Christianity by Pope Leo XVI. And America is faced with the same consolidation of Europe into one bloc of nations, The North American Union. Are we to face the same annihilation through amalgamation of law and culture Europe has experienced? Are we about to see the distinctives of America become merged with those of Canada and Mexico? If so, what are the implications for the Christian?

 

Do the policies of Hitler return under the same type of human rights concerns? Are Christians going to be eliminated because of their negative impact on the world around them? Does the morally high ground of Christians and their God become the sacrificial altar upon which their literal blood is sacrificed. Do we see the policies of Cain make a widespread return? Is this to be the reaction of Cain to the righteousness preached by the Prophet Abel? Or do we turn a deaf ear to such ridiculous notions?

Or maybe the concerted effort to eliminate Christian ideas is to subvert their Christian distinctives. Is it possible that the best way to eliminate your enemy is to convince them to join you? Are Christians even aware of such modus operandi? Is it even a consideration that Christian enemies are subtly luring Christians into beliefs and practices that Jesus Christ never condones. Are we being sold a bill of spiritual goods which the Word of God specifically condemns?

If so, what are the results of such a diabolical subversion? Could it be that the plan is to turn Christians into the same as everyone else around them. They look the same. They believe the same. They act the same. They unknowingly serve the same agendas. Their values are slowly morphed into the will of others they know not. Their ignorance is used against them. And in the name of serving God, abominations against their God are engaged in.

Does this sound rather far fetched? I can understand why if that is the case. But the realities of Jewish elimination under the righteousness of the Third Reich in the not so distant past should serve to tell us that human depravity ever lurks beneath the thin veneer of civilized man. In fact, it could be said at this time that civilization has developed cracks and gaping holes which are in danger of becoming the norm, something the Jews know about intimately.

He that has ears to hear...........

The Conservative & Liberal Media Bias About Planned Parenthood & Komen

If you've ever heard the rants and raves of liberals and conservatives regarding the bias of each other, then you received a rare treat this past week when the bigoted proclivities of each was on full display. And it wasn't a pretty sight, especially where the truth was concerned.

Fortunately, someone displayed the patience necessary to actually read the official statements of the Susan G. Komen Foundation regarding their decisions about funding future grants to further their specific aim of helping in the fight against breast cancer and breast cancer detection.

That someone can be found HERE!

The National Prayer Breakfast - Did God Speak Through President Obama?

Well, President Obama's done it again. He has Christians of many stripes in an uproar because of his callous and potentially unpardonable sin; he quoted Jesus as support for his idea of taxing the rich.

I must admit, if you're going to the National Prayer breakfast as a politician, Jesus is One you might want to associate yourself with, especially when it comes to advocating a policy not highly regarded among most of the Evangelical audience. But, needless to say, this action wasn't warmly received. In fact, as I said, most are outraged and expressing their shock, disdain and offense at such highly insensitive and proud remarks.

I must wonder though, if the denunciation of President Obama's use of the Bible (The King James Version at that!) to give credence to the plan to increases taxes on the rich in American Society is being thoroughly examined by anyone? All I hear so far is the bemoaning of poor Bible exegesis by the President and castigating him for his audacious actions of teaching the National Prayer Breakfast multitudes using the very Words of God in the flesh for his proof text.

A Little Reality is in order.

The most common argument against Obama's use of Jesus' words is the misapplication of them by the President. It is being said that in Luke chapter 12 Jesus was talking about personal responsibility before God and God alone for the use of resources acquired by someone. The idea that this could apply to a relationship involving Government and a taxpayer was not considered and should not be considered at all. This is simply between God and and an individual.

For the Believer in Christ serious about "rightly dividing the word of truth," it is easy to overcome this objection. It must be remembered that Jesus in no way eliminated an individual's relationship with "Caesar." The phrase "Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's" is one of the most well known comments of Jesus especially when considering the duties and responsibilities of Believers in Christ toward secular government. Surely, those raising the cry against President Obama at The National Prayer Breakfast are not going to deny Caesar, in this case, The US Government, the right to ask the individual to pay legitimate taxes, are they? Putting the issue of what is "legitimate" or not aside, the issue of paying lawfully due taxes to Caesar should not be of concern in this instance. If it is, then a whole new series of issues arise outside the scope of this discussion.

So, assuming that the issue of paying lawful taxes to Caesar is not at issue, we are left with nothing more than disagreeing with President Obama about the limited set of Scripture cited by him in his statements about taxing the rich and the rate of taxation to be levied by the Obama Administration on the "rich." We are left with nothing more than rank secular politics.

The Real Core Issue

What we are left with is the fundamental difference that many professing Christians in the United States have with the policies and beliefs of President Obama. As stark as these may be, they, in no way, detract from the true duties and responsibilities these same professing Christians have toward the Obama Administration as outlined in the same Book cited by the President:

1. They are to honor this administration.
2. They are not to "rail" against this administration with their words and actions.
3. They are to submit to this administration short of disobeying a direct command of Jesus.
4. They are to pray for the salvation of the Obama administration.
5. They are to acknowledge that the Obama administration is "ordained by God" to be in power at this time in history.
6. They are to acknowledge that the Obama administration is ordained by God to reward good and evil.
7. They are to acknowledge that the Obama Administration are the "deacons" of God to oversee good and evil.

Assuming that these defined duties are being responsibly exercised, should it concern professing Christians that "bad" laws are being passed in this country that negatively impact its citizens? Everyone will agree that "yes" it should concern us a Christians!. But is that all that we should ask? I say that it isn't. How about one more question?

WHY???????

Most concerned with the issue of bad laws will usually resort to the safe haven of faulty ideology on the part of the Obama Administration. While simplistic as best, it does not reach to the root of the problem for God's people. Fortunately, we are not left to our own understanding. Jesus and His Prophets have previously spoken. We would do well to listen.

Jesus says in Matthew 5:17 that He didn't come to destroy the Law, He came to fulfill it. Two verses later, He also states that the person that breaks the least of His commandments and teaches men so, is the least in the Kingdom of heaven; that whoever does them and teaches them is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.

The Prophet Ezekiel had a few things to say on behalf of God to the Israelites regarding the Law. The 20th chapter of Ezekiel tells how God had given them Laws, Statutes and Judgments to live their lives by. But they rejected these and turned elsewhere. Because of this rejection of God's Laws, Statutes and judgments in their lives, God says that he gave them "statutes that were no good and judgments whereby they should not live."

The reason for God doing this was simple, "to make them desolate that they might know that I am the LORD."

American Spiritual heritage is full of professed Believers in Christ denying the validity of Gods Law over us in our lives. The reason given is that "we are not under the law." Galatians reveals that he that is under the law is under the curse of the Law. However, a little Bible exegesis reveals that what we are no longer under, what we have been redeemed from is not the law, but the "curse" of the Law. Paul tells us further that the Law is holy and spiritual. He finally tells us that by faith, the Law is established. But, alas, Believers by the droves have officially rejected the validity of their duty to conform their lives to God's Law. And we wonder why our lives in America are steadily looking toward the bleak side while we point the finger currently at the Obama Administration.

Is it possible that the actions of an administration so poorly thought of by many Americans are, in truth, in line with the God of the Bible we supposedly so diligently follow? Is it possible that the further taxing of the rich is an indication that we are under the judgment of God. Is it possible that the scourge of Abortion is another indicator?

Please understand me. I'm not saying that all these bad laws and their outworking are leading to God's Judgment. God's Word says that the bad laws ARE the Judgement of God. Obama is simply speaking and carrying out God's oversight of the universal principle of sowing and reaping. Christians living in America have sown the rejection of God's Law. We are now reaping the inevitable result, bad laws of men.

Is it any wonder that we don't like them? A holy and righteous God awaits our repentance.

American Family Radio, Bryan Fischer & Conservative Media Bias

I was listening to American Family Radio Host Bryan Fischer today while he questioned a guest about the remaining GOP candidates' individual deficiencies as viewed by Evangelical voters. In the question, Fischer cited the non-mainstream Mormonism of Mitt Romney, the past infidelity of Newt Gingrich, the quirky views about Prostitution and drugs of Ron Paul and the Roman Catholic Faith of Rick Santorum. I immediately was flabbergasted at the bias of the question from this supposed proponent of the Truth.

I've said before that AFA's choice for the presidency was Rick Perry and had been from before the beginning of the run by Perry. It went back to at least prior to The Response coordinated by Rick Perry in Houston Texas. Though publicly not allowed to endorse a political candidate because of their 501C3 status with the IRS, it has been obvious who they prefer. And it hasn't been limited to Bryan Fischer, but runs the gambit of radio personalities as well as management and staff.

Since the departure of Perry, the AFA favorite to defeat President Obama has been Newt Gingrich. Romney, his Mormon faith and liberal politics are not thought to be able to mount a viable campaign against the Obama administration. So the most attractive candidate ideologically is Gingrich. This has become more evident with Gingrich's win in South Carolina and the supposed momentum gained from that victory.

The bias I am referring to has to do with the supposed weaknesses of Gingrich and Santorum. As stated, Fischer referred to Gingrich and his past marital failures while the glaring weakness of Santorum was his non-Protestant Roman Catholic Faith.

The bias lies in this fact. Newt Gingrich is also a Roman Catholic. Please tell me how this failed to be mentioned. Tell me also how this is a negative for Santorum but not for Gingrich.

And you thought media bias was only for the liberals!

Hating Tim Tebow

If you have followed the saga that has become Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos, you have experienced a wide range of responses to his life on the gridiron. Some spew hate. Some seem to almost worship him and his ways. Regardless of what he has or has not accomplished, many seem to possess a definite opinion about him.

For the professing Christian, especially of the Evangelical variety, the negativity and vitriol toward Tebow has been rather confusing. It's hard for some to comprehend. Surprisingly, it's coming mainly from other professing Christians, though not necessarily from Evangelicals. Social media, blogs, personal and sports website forums abound with condemnation of all things Tebow.

Not the least of these sites is Commandments of Men moderated by Lewis Wells. Tim Tebow has been the topic of several blog posts over the last few months. The latest is entitled This Tebow Stuff, I tell Ya.

Following the theme of previous posts, it condemns Tebow's openly public display of acknowledgement of and devotion to God as a follower of Jesus Christ. This condemnation is predicated on the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:5-6,

• 5. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be like the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.
• 6. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thine closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

According to this particular statement by Jesus as understood by Lewis Wells, all public prayers by His followers are forbidden.

Closer examination will, however, reveal quite the contrary. And hopefully we will be prevented from doing what Lewis so personally and thoroughly hates and detests, outward legalism.

Continuing the pattern set earlier in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus, rather than attacking the outward action, instead confronts the heart of men. Jesus didn't condemn praying in Public. He did, however, condemn public praying simply to be seen by others. The inner motive for praying in public was the key issue, not the outward action.

Jesus said that we are not to be like the Hypocrites "because" they love to pray to be seen of men. Then Jesus addresses the next topic, reward. Jesus says that the hypocrites have received what they were after, the acknowledgement of others.

Yet Jesus tells us that public rewards should come from God after we have prayed when no one was watching except God. His approval is to be what we are seeking, not the approval of others.

Interestingly, this supposedly direct prohibition to publicly pray comes into stark conflict with what Jesus earlier stated in this same sermon in Matthew 5:16,

• Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Is it possible that Jesus was confused? Maybe he didn't realize that he was contradicting Himself!

Don't count on it! Jesus knew exactly what he was saying and any conflict in His words is imaginary. His words are perfectly complementary to one another.

And in the case of Tim Tebow, this is exactly what he seems to be doing, letting his light shine before men. And if you want to condemn Tebow for his public displays, you have delved into the realm of judging a man's heart, which we all are ill equipped for.

In fact, later in the same Sermon, Jesus tells us that by their fruits you shall know them. (Matt. 7:16a) What are the fruits of Tim Tebow? Well, look at his actions on and off the field. Let them speak on Tim's behalf.

Then again, maybe everyone would be happier if Tebow ran afoul of the law, the NFL and society at large. Maybe thugs are easier to identify with than being raised by parents who care for third world residents by taking care of their physical needs as well as telling them about the Savior who loved them and gave His Own life so that they could have Eternal Life.

Personally, I prefer Tim Tebow just as he is.

The Mark Of Cain!

With his admitted non-traditional campaign, Herman Cain has promised to challenge Texas Governor Rick Perry for the evangelical vote to secure his quest of the GOP Presidential nomination.

With Governor Perry and Mitt Romney thought to hold the key to the Republican primaries, the emergence of Herman Cain has caught many by surprise. What has proven to be a rather dull group has taken on a surprising political sheen of interest as the straight talking Cain has proven so far that he can handle the rough and tumble of politics. A political novice, this highly successful businessman has seen his rivals wilt under the heat of pointed questions about particular policy while Cain forcefully answers all questions.

Therein lies his attractiveness. He knows what he believes and he's not afraid to articulate it as well as respond confidently to all enquiries. He's proving to be far more adept at Public Relations than any of his public counterparts, including Governor Perry.

Can you say Grass Roots? Tea, anyone?

Crystal Clear Delusion

With the continuing debacle at the Crystal Cathedral comes this observation from Craig Huey of Election Forum.

The sad part of this observation is that the Gospel of Christ and the longtime message of Crystal Cathedral Founder Robert Schueller are thought to be the same. Sadly, many others think so, too.

The strong delusion promised by God for those continuing to seek such waywardness abides still, even in the hearts of professing Christians.

Pat Robertson & The Words Of Jesus - Missing The Point

In the wake of Pat Robertson's blunder of approving of a spouse divorcing one who has alzheimers comes this article from the LA Times. It's about those who are really upset with Robertson's advice and the fact that these dissenters would normally agree with Robertson.

The bulk of the raw feeling seems to come from those who can't believe Robertson would advise someone to break their marriage vows, specifically, the section that traditionally says, "till death do us part."

While Scripture definitely agrees with the position of faithfully performing your vows, there lies a more fundamental issue that has been missed by many, but not all. The biblical position on divorce is very clear. The only legitimnate grounds for divorce is adultery. Jesus is very clear. Yet, Pat Robertson seems to have forgotten the very words of the Christ he professes to know and serve. The advice was given without any care for what the Word of God had to say on the matter. It seems that the immediate needs of a person are the only legitimate grounds for making decisions.

Welcome to apostate Christianity.