When I was in College I ran into a man by the name of John Anhorn. He was in Choir with us I think. Anyway he had a saying. "Nobody Ever Kicks a Dead Dog".
Of course that means for those of you in Rio Linda (as Rush Says) that if you are doing nothing, making no waves, stirring nothing up, keeping peace with all you won't get kicked. Do something and expect the toe of the boot from some.
Such has been my lot. I'm a kickee more than a kicker. Of people who are around me, 70% think I a good guy and would say so, 20% have no opinion one way or another (no waves made) and a solid 10% think I'm the worst person on the planet.
Now, let me get this straight. Should I spend any time whatsoever trying to mollify the 10%? Should I try to make peace? Should I change my behavior that endears me to the 70% to win the 10%? I don't think so.
I will be at peace with all men if I can be but if a person chooses to be at odds with me that is a choice they make with or without my influence.
Being Persecuted for the Name of Jesus I wear is just fine with me. It validates what I am doing. If the Anti-Christ Spirit rises up against me I feel like I am in the exact right place.
I count it all joy when men revile me.
We are to conform ourselves to the image of Christ aren't we? That would mean that sometimes we will be spit upon, whipped, hair torn out, hated, hollered at, despised and rejected. If we aren't we might want to ask. Why isn't the Spirit of Anti-Christ rising up against us? Maybe we need to see if the "Christ" in us is alive first.
Count it ALL Joy when Men Persecute you for HIS names sake. When the boot of persecution come to kick you smile, YOU ARE RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO BE!!
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Friday, August 01, 2008
He will NEVER let go
We sang this at Church a few weeks ago. Pastor Barry reminded me of it.
I had the song right except for the Oh No you never let go refrain. As a North Dakota boy I thought the refrain went, Thru the Rain and Thru the SNOW. Made sense to me.
But, it's a good song and worth repeating. Watch it and enjoy.
I had the song right except for the Oh No you never let go refrain. As a North Dakota boy I thought the refrain went, Thru the Rain and Thru the SNOW. Made sense to me.
But, it's a good song and worth repeating. Watch it and enjoy.
Other People's Money
I'm an expert on how other people should spend their money. Fortunately they all ignore me. That's because it's not MY money. If it were MY money I would spend it how I see fit. So should they.
That works as long as I am a private citizen. When the government, any government, mandates how I will spend MY money that is intrusion of the worst kind.
There are lots of ways. Taxes, school funding, fees, in Massachusetts mandatory health insurance and hundreds of unfunded mandates. It's easy to pass a mandate when it's not your money. It's also cowardly.
Liberals like Obama think it's their job to tell others how to spend their money. His plan for our economy is to force oil companies to write a check to every American family. Why? Because they made profits.
I have said before, liberal economics is oxymoronic. They have no clue.
OK, I'll say this just once. IT'S THEIR MONEY BARRY!
You can tax it. Then they will make other decisions. Moving offshore comes to mind. These are international corporations and they can move the money anywhere anytime.
The naivete of this candidate and the idiot advisers surrounding him is a bad omen of the kind of president he will be. I wish I could speak in his ear. Hey, Barry, find some people that actually KNOW something about economics.
There were a couple from a prior administration. Robert Rubin and Robert Reich. I might not agree with them, but at least they actually studied a little economics somewhere and have some kind of proven track record one can appreciate.
The rest are political hacks who's only claim to fame is good politics.
Winning at elections, losers at governing. For a prime example, see our current democrat led house and senate.
What a fiasco.
That works as long as I am a private citizen. When the government, any government, mandates how I will spend MY money that is intrusion of the worst kind.
There are lots of ways. Taxes, school funding, fees, in Massachusetts mandatory health insurance and hundreds of unfunded mandates. It's easy to pass a mandate when it's not your money. It's also cowardly.
Liberals like Obama think it's their job to tell others how to spend their money. His plan for our economy is to force oil companies to write a check to every American family. Why? Because they made profits.
I have said before, liberal economics is oxymoronic. They have no clue.
OK, I'll say this just once. IT'S THEIR MONEY BARRY!
You can tax it. Then they will make other decisions. Moving offshore comes to mind. These are international corporations and they can move the money anywhere anytime.
The naivete of this candidate and the idiot advisers surrounding him is a bad omen of the kind of president he will be. I wish I could speak in his ear. Hey, Barry, find some people that actually KNOW something about economics.
There were a couple from a prior administration. Robert Rubin and Robert Reich. I might not agree with them, but at least they actually studied a little economics somewhere and have some kind of proven track record one can appreciate.
The rest are political hacks who's only claim to fame is good politics.
Winning at elections, losers at governing. For a prime example, see our current democrat led house and senate.
What a fiasco.
Obama's Note in the Wall was all a Publicity Stunt
The other day when I read the contents of the note in the wall that was "swiped" and published I was immediately suspicious. It was a great note. It spoke MY language. I, one of the elect, was nearly deceived.
BUT truth always outs. He released the contents of the note himself.
This writer has detailed the whole thing.
Is this who we want for President folks?? This man believes his own press releases.
The good news is the full on underwear examination has begun. A swift boat book called Obama Nation has hit the market. I know there will be howls. That's ok. Truman said something about heat and kitchens. Bush has had his insides turned out. Now it's Barry's turn.
Let the anal examination begin.
BUT truth always outs. He released the contents of the note himself.
This writer has detailed the whole thing.
Is this who we want for President folks?? This man believes his own press releases.
The good news is the full on underwear examination has begun. A swift boat book called Obama Nation has hit the market. I know there will be howls. That's ok. Truman said something about heat and kitchens. Bush has had his insides turned out. Now it's Barry's turn.
Let the anal examination begin.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
The Dumbest People in the Room
Remember the book the Smartest People in the Room? About Enron?
Well, a new one should be written. About the Democrat congress, house and senate. I am astonished at the absolute stupidity of these people. Oh, they are good politicians but they are really really bad policy makers and worse economists.
It all starts with the chief dummy, Nancy Pelosi and her sidekick, Harry Reid. They have presided over maximum ineptitude.
In watching newscasts and interviews I have been looking for a fragment of common sense. The closest thing I have come to is Barney Frank. He is halfway Cogent. Almost all the rest are totally brainwave free.
On CNBC a couple days ago Frederico Pena was interviewed. He was disgraced as secretary of Transportation during the Clinton Years. Now he's an Obama advisor. He parroted the line that OIL companies should start drilling where there is no oil. WHAT?? He made a fool of himself. The interviewers had all they could do to keep from laughing out loud at him.
I believe that since the Republicans have chosen a BYE candidate and have handed the election to Obama on a silver platter it would serve Obama right now well to begin to surround himself with people who actually have a quarter of a brain in their head. He might have to go right of center to find some.
Of course Obama says some really dumb things too.... Like we wouldn't have to drill for oil if we just inflated our tires properly.
Man we are in so much trouble in this country. Idiots in charge. Monkeys running the zoo.
After four years of this stupidity maybe, just maybe we will have an actual opposition party (it won't be the Republican Party, they will all be indicted or in Jail by then) to run against these underachievers.
One can only hope. I am coming to believe you have to flunk economics to be a liberal. At least it appears that way. Seems like all liberal proposals are 100% economic common sense free.
Well, a new one should be written. About the Democrat congress, house and senate. I am astonished at the absolute stupidity of these people. Oh, they are good politicians but they are really really bad policy makers and worse economists.
It all starts with the chief dummy, Nancy Pelosi and her sidekick, Harry Reid. They have presided over maximum ineptitude.
In watching newscasts and interviews I have been looking for a fragment of common sense. The closest thing I have come to is Barney Frank. He is halfway Cogent. Almost all the rest are totally brainwave free.
On CNBC a couple days ago Frederico Pena was interviewed. He was disgraced as secretary of Transportation during the Clinton Years. Now he's an Obama advisor. He parroted the line that OIL companies should start drilling where there is no oil. WHAT?? He made a fool of himself. The interviewers had all they could do to keep from laughing out loud at him.
I believe that since the Republicans have chosen a BYE candidate and have handed the election to Obama on a silver platter it would serve Obama right now well to begin to surround himself with people who actually have a quarter of a brain in their head. He might have to go right of center to find some.
Of course Obama says some really dumb things too.... Like we wouldn't have to drill for oil if we just inflated our tires properly.
Man we are in so much trouble in this country. Idiots in charge. Monkeys running the zoo.
After four years of this stupidity maybe, just maybe we will have an actual opposition party (it won't be the Republican Party, they will all be indicted or in Jail by then) to run against these underachievers.
One can only hope. I am coming to believe you have to flunk economics to be a liberal. At least it appears that way. Seems like all liberal proposals are 100% economic common sense free.
George W Bush's Legacy - Truman for Our Times
I know it frustrates my liberal friends and some conservatives but IMHO GWB will be remembered fondly 50 years from now as a man with great vision and courage who changed the world for the better.
He is Truman for our times.
I found this article and believe this writer to be right:
But then, what does he know, he's just a historian. Know nothing liberal pundits are so much smarter. How's that working out?
He is Truman for our times.
I found this article and believe this writer to be right:
That George W Bush's foreign policy has been a total failure is now taken for granted by so many people that one usually hears it stated as a simple truth that need not be argued at all.
It has happened before. When President Harry S Truman said in March 1952 that he would not seek re-election, most Americans could agree on one thing: that his foreign policy had been a catastrophic failure. In Korea his indecision had invited aggression, and then his incompetence had cost the lives of some 54,000 Americans and millions of Korean civilians in just two years of fighting—on both counts more than ten times the number of casualties in Iraq. Right-wingers reviled Truman for having lost China to communism and for his dismissal of the great General Douglas MacArthur, who had wanted to win it back, with nukes if necessary. Liberals despised Truman because he was the failed shopkeeper who had usurped the patrician Franklin Roosevelt's White House—liberals always were the snobs of US politics.
But then, what does he know, he's just a historian. Know nothing liberal pundits are so much smarter. How's that working out?
A Memo from the MAIN Office
To: YOU
Date: TODAY
From: GOD
Subject: YOURSELF
Reference: LIFE
This is God. Today I will be handling All of your problems for you. I do Not need your help. So, have a nice day.
I love you.
P.S. And, remember...
If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do Not attempt to resolve it yourself! Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. I will get to it in MY TIME. All situations will be resolved, but in My time, not yours.
Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.
If you find yourself stuck in traffic, don't despair. There are people in this world for whom driving is an unheard of privilege.
Should you have a bad day at work; think of the man who has been out of work for years.
Should you despair over a relationship gone bad; think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and be loved in return.
Should you grieve the passing of another weekend; think of the woman in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed her children.
Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance; think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk.
Should you notice a new grey hair in the mirror; think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had the hair to examine.
Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all about, asking what is my purpose? Be thankful. There are those who didn't live long enough to get the opportunity.
Should you find yourself the victim of other people's bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities; remember, things could be worse. You could be one of them!
Now, you have a nice day...God
God has seen you struggle, God says it's over.
Hat Tip to Olufunso Omadarian
11 is too many but it's the lowest in years, not that you'll get to hear abou this
The death toll in Iraq for July was 11. Lowest since the war began. But don't wait up for the news clones to tell you squat about it.
That would be bad for Obama who is a surge success denier.
Pitiful.
That would be bad for Obama who is a surge success denier.
Pitiful.
Made me Laugh and say Ouch
There is a clever well written website and now a book called Stuff White People Like. I had heard of it, but then in an hour interview yesterday on Wisconsin Pubic Radio I laughed as I heard the author describe himself. He's a white liberal with a masters degree in English. Barak Obama supporter. He has really defined clearly the white liberal stereotype.
If you have the courage, go read some of these entries. You will laugh and if you are a liberal you will squirm.
My favorites are:
If you have the courage, go read some of these entries. You will laugh and if you are a liberal you will squirm.
My favorites are:
Having Black FriendsI am of the opinion that the book is better. I heard him read from the book and it was far more humorous and comprehensive. I think I'll get a copy. My son Kevin needs to read it. He is very white indeed.
The Daily Show and Colbert
Knowing What's best for Poor People
Vegetarianism
Being Offended
The Bad Theology of "Christian" Radio
We just came off the road. It was a lot of driving. I listened to talk radio, NPR, Classical music and from time to time tuned into so called "Christian" radio. We have some stations in the Chicagoland area. They are OK. The music is OK, sometimes a little sappy for me, but OK. I don't listen much. The talk is OK but mostly meatless. The real reason I don't listen much to Christian Radio is because of the bad theology most of the preachers on the radio provide to the masses.
The bad theology is not heresy as such, it's not evil, it's not weird, it's just insipid and without a challenge that will lead a person to a deeper walk in Jesus. It just allows them to live in their lukewarm nominal Christianity comforted that they are all going to heaven. They aren't but they are comforted. That may be sin.
While traveling in Wisconsin one such encounter that had me pounding the steering wheel in anger was listening to Turning Point with David Jeremiah. He's very popular. On the TV too. Good speaker. Mild. Kind. and WRONG!
He is the classic case of smooth words for itching ears. Not evil, just fully vegetarian (meatless). Milk for babies.
The one that had me yelling at the radio in the dashboard was his teaching on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I hesitated to post the link because if you don't understand this critical theology you might think he is right. He's NOT! He's so messed up on this I won't even TRY to counter his deviance from understanding. HE says that when you are saved you are baptised with the Holy Spirit. FALSE.
He said that all true believers are baptised with the Holy Spirit. FALSE. He then makes the comment that made my head explode. He said, (you can hear if for yourself) that Jesus never commanded people to be Baptised with the Holy Spirit. I guess he must have torn the first Chapter of Acts out of his Bible.
For the record, I think David Jeremiah is a good man, a nice man, a kind man, a good speaker and a successful minister of the gospel. He's just so mislead and has so reconstrued his theology to fit his level of spiritual engagement that he probably believes this to be true despite the evidence of Scripture. He's not dangerous unless you consider that he is leading others to live far below their God Ordained potential.
I guess I would define THAT as dangerous. And that is why I don't listen to much Christian Radio. Too much bad preaching. My Blood Pressure and the steering wheel can't take it.
The bad theology is not heresy as such, it's not evil, it's not weird, it's just insipid and without a challenge that will lead a person to a deeper walk in Jesus. It just allows them to live in their lukewarm nominal Christianity comforted that they are all going to heaven. They aren't but they are comforted. That may be sin.
While traveling in Wisconsin one such encounter that had me pounding the steering wheel in anger was listening to Turning Point with David Jeremiah. He's very popular. On the TV too. Good speaker. Mild. Kind. and WRONG!
He is the classic case of smooth words for itching ears. Not evil, just fully vegetarian (meatless). Milk for babies.
The one that had me yelling at the radio in the dashboard was his teaching on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I hesitated to post the link because if you don't understand this critical theology you might think he is right. He's NOT! He's so messed up on this I won't even TRY to counter his deviance from understanding. HE says that when you are saved you are baptised with the Holy Spirit. FALSE.
He said that all true believers are baptised with the Holy Spirit. FALSE. He then makes the comment that made my head explode. He said, (you can hear if for yourself) that Jesus never commanded people to be Baptised with the Holy Spirit. I guess he must have torn the first Chapter of Acts out of his Bible.
For the record, I think David Jeremiah is a good man, a nice man, a kind man, a good speaker and a successful minister of the gospel. He's just so mislead and has so reconstrued his theology to fit his level of spiritual engagement that he probably believes this to be true despite the evidence of Scripture. He's not dangerous unless you consider that he is leading others to live far below their God Ordained potential.
I guess I would define THAT as dangerous. And that is why I don't listen to much Christian Radio. Too much bad preaching. My Blood Pressure and the steering wheel can't take it.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Opposition to the Anointing in the Church
As a pentecostal minister of the Good News of Jesus I have seen and experienced a great deal of opposition to the anointing of the Holy Ghost. Much of course comes from the unredeemed and the world system. That is no surprise.
However when the supposed body of Christ opposes the anointing of the Holy Spirit it's doubly troubling. Of course the devil has no new tricks up his old sleeve. He opposed Adam and Eve who walked clothed in Glory in the Garden, he opposed Abraham and Jacob. He chased Elijah into the desert. The chosen people, the Jews, those whose bloodline would carry the Messiah persecuted and killed the prophets. The very ones who brought the word of the Living God to them.
And when the Anointed one, the promised Messiah came the devil opposed him and tried to kill him again and again. Until he did, but then Jesus rose again.
After that the attempts to silence the prophets and the Apostles sent to do his work intensified. Martyrs nearly all of them. And it has been ever since. Most persecution came at the hands of people who represented a religious system. Little came from those who were secular except at the urging of religious leaders.
That is as it is today. There has been for a while in this modern age a purpose by the Spirit of God to reestablish the Five Fold Ministry on the earth. Pastors, Teachers, Evangelists, Apostles and Prophets.
Of course the religious systems have little bad to say about Pastors and Teachers, they don't offer much challenge to earthly authority. The Evangelists and Apostles are a little more out of the box for the religious system of today's church.
And, Prophets. WHOA. Of course like always this is because they don't understand nor want to understand the purpose of the Prophet. Silencing the anointing is an anti-christ spirit that lives in today's church.
The anointing of the Prophet and the Apostle are held at arms length and opposed by much of the traditional nominal church. Today we are seeing a slow division. This is not a bad thing, there will come a day when people will have to choose. Death or Life. Tradition or the Anointing of God. I know what side I want to be on, how about you? Here's a very well written article I am posting in full about this topic, if you wonder who the anti-Christ is, he is present in many churches. Read this whole thing.
However when the supposed body of Christ opposes the anointing of the Holy Spirit it's doubly troubling. Of course the devil has no new tricks up his old sleeve. He opposed Adam and Eve who walked clothed in Glory in the Garden, he opposed Abraham and Jacob. He chased Elijah into the desert. The chosen people, the Jews, those whose bloodline would carry the Messiah persecuted and killed the prophets. The very ones who brought the word of the Living God to them.
And when the Anointed one, the promised Messiah came the devil opposed him and tried to kill him again and again. Until he did, but then Jesus rose again.
After that the attempts to silence the prophets and the Apostles sent to do his work intensified. Martyrs nearly all of them. And it has been ever since. Most persecution came at the hands of people who represented a religious system. Little came from those who were secular except at the urging of religious leaders.
That is as it is today. There has been for a while in this modern age a purpose by the Spirit of God to reestablish the Five Fold Ministry on the earth. Pastors, Teachers, Evangelists, Apostles and Prophets.
Of course the religious systems have little bad to say about Pastors and Teachers, they don't offer much challenge to earthly authority. The Evangelists and Apostles are a little more out of the box for the religious system of today's church.
And, Prophets. WHOA. Of course like always this is because they don't understand nor want to understand the purpose of the Prophet. Silencing the anointing is an anti-christ spirit that lives in today's church.
The anointing of the Prophet and the Apostle are held at arms length and opposed by much of the traditional nominal church. Today we are seeing a slow division. This is not a bad thing, there will come a day when people will have to choose. Death or Life. Tradition or the Anointing of God. I know what side I want to be on, how about you? Here's a very well written article I am posting in full about this topic, if you wonder who the anti-Christ is, he is present in many churches. Read this whole thing.
I sincerely believe that it's very important to try to understand the Scriptures concerning that spirit of antichrist so to recognize possible deceptive teachings that redirect some away from truth and the presence of Christ. As a young man growing up in a Christian home I’ve heard many times reference to an antichrist. Not serving the Lord at that time, I didn’t give this theological teaching much thought and assumed it’s validity but later in life when God got my undivided attention, I began reading and studying the bible in prayer, finding many truths which had been hidden within the confusion of doctrinal preference . These revealing truths became very precious to me. They just seemed to make very good sense and applicable in the everyday challenges of today. In this publication I would like to share what I believe to be the true understanding about that spirit of Antichrist. Lets take a close look at the word antichrist, beginning with defining “anti”.
an·ti (²n“tº, -t¶) n., pl. an·tis. 1. A person who is opposed to something, such as a group, policy, proposal, or practice. --an·ti adj. 1. Opposed: “Douglas MacArthur had a coterie of worshipers, balanced off by an equal number . . . who were vehemently anti” (Joseph C. Harsch). --an·ti prep. Opposed to; against. [From anti-.]
Therefore, “anti” would include any individual that is apposed to an idea, or something other. Now lets take a close look at the following syllable “christ” . The word “christ” is a Greek word that came from a Hebrew word, “messiah”. And the definition of the word “messiah” is:
Anointed: usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); spec. The messiah –anointed, Messiah, an epithet of Jesus—Christ.
To me, Christ is not necessarily the last name of Jesus but an epithet which characterizes His works within those that are His. Therefore it is my deepest belief that the word antichrist should be directed to those that are resistant, not interested and/or disobedient to the anointing of Christ.
John the Baptist characterizes the works of Christ:
In the following verses, when those observing the works of John wondered if he was the Christ, John prophesied the future works of Jesus’ anointing.
Luke 3:15. Now as the people were in expectation, and all reasoned in their hearts about John, whether he was the Christ or not, 16. John answered, saying to them all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
For those that are Christ’s, it Jesus that anoints them with the Holy Spirit of God. Therefore those that have no desire or simply do not believe in this anointing, or do not want the righteous presence of Christ in their lives are of those that are anti or against this doctrine and gospel of Christ.
Spirit of antichrist—denying the presence of Christ’s anointing:
The word “antichrist” is used five times in the bible beginning in 1 John 2:18. The last reference is used in 2 John 1:7. There is no other reference to antichrist in any other part of the bible. If one takes a very close look how antichrist is used in 1 John, I believe one would see that it is referencing the state of mind of those that deny or simply do not believe in Christ’s anointing. God, as recorded in the Scriptures has given all, the anointing of the Holy Spirit, the presence of Christ, the fullness of God, to those that are earnest about repenting to God.
It’s my belief that “The Antichrist” is nothing more than Satan. His deceptive behavior against truth amongst all mankind began with Adam and Eve. Since the Day of Pentecost, as recorded in the book of Acts, all mankind has the choice to be led by the Spirit of the Lord, or continue in the spirit of error, that spirit of antichrist, Satan. Those that have accepted Christ are freed from that bondage under Satan.
Romans 6:16. Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin to death, or of obedience to righteousness? 17. But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. 18. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.
Lets take a look at what the bible says of those that are not against or anti to Christ, but have chosen the Spirit of Christ over the spirit of antichrist.
Romans 8:9. But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. 10. And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.
Spirit of antichrist—a state of mind & heart:
I believe John, in his writings, was trying to explain about that spirit of antichrist and the behavior of those that remain under that influence. It’s very clear that the “many antichrists” did not have that “anointing from the Holy One”, Christ, the source of “all truth”. Some did not remain with those that were of Christ for they were antichrist.
1 John 2:18. Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour. 19. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us. 20. But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.
John is clearly stating in the verses above that those that chose that “they might be made manifest” rather than being included with those that had “an anointing from the Holy One” were of the “even now many antichrists have come”.
The apostle John’s view was that some, were of Christ, that continued with them and the others with their own agenda were antichrist.
Take close notice that this anointing revealed “truth” which Jesus promised in John 16:13 would be revealed through the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth.
21. I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.
The following verses also includes any doctorial teaching that denies or confuses the relationship between God the Father and the Son of God. For if this relationship is denied or hidden then the individual relationship within the fullness of God is veiled, and the works of Christ can be greatly hindered and impaired.
.22. Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. 23. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also. 24. Therefore let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25. And this is the promise that He has promised us eternal life.
The following precept is directed to the anointed, that they do not need that anyone teach them, but to abide in the righteous direction of truth. It further says that whomever is practicing righteousness is born of Him. This action is the leading of the Holy Spirit.
26. These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you. 27. But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him. 28. And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. 29. If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.
Those that resist, for whatever their reason, may be of that “spirit of antichrist”, denying the presence of Christ, not finding the wonderful promises of God ...25. And this is the promise that He has promised us eternal life.
The fourth use of the word “antichrist” continues with the same message focusing on the fact that there’s only two spirits. The Spirit of truth, which are those that have accepted the presence of Christ, and the spirit of error, which are those that are of that spirit of the Antichrist. Bottom line is, the spirit of Antichrist, are those that are of the world. You see those that confess that Jesus Christ has come into their flesh is of God. They are of Christ and those that do not make that confession are antichrist. Consider what the apostle John was saying to those that were in Christ: “because He (Christ) who is in you is greater than he (the Antichrist) who is in the world”.
1 John 4:1. Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, 3. and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world. 4. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 5. They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. 6. We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
The apostle Paul confirms this line of reasoning in the following verse.
Romans 6:16. Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin to death, or of obedience to righteousness?
The last reference to antichrist in the bible:
The following verse is the final usage of the word “antichrist” in the bible. Take note that those that do not confess Jesus’ anointing of truth, in their flesh are a deceiver and an antichrist. They transgress and do not abide in the doctrine of Christ, for they do not have God, they are antichrist. But for those that have accepted the “anointing from the Holy One” are abiding in the doctrine of Christ, has both the Father and the Son.
2 John 1:7. For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8. Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward. 9. Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. 10. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him;
Living in this anointing from the Holy One is the greatest treasure ever to be found for in it the righteousness of God can be demonstrated in the lives of those that are His. They are under the influence of truth that comes only through Christ. Living under this Holy influence gives understanding, strength and confidence in those that have accepted this Way of Christ. As the apostle John stated, those that are antichrist will not “hear”, for they will not understand the value of the presence of Christ, the “fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:19).
Ephesians 3:14. For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15. from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16. that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17. that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18. may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height 19. to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Praise God for this wonderful free gift!!!
1 John 31. Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 2. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 3. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 4. Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness. 5. And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin. 6. Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him. 7. Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous. 8. He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. (When Christ is manifested in the lives of those that are His, the works of the devil are being destroyed daily through this anointing of Christ.) 9. Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. 10. In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother. 11. For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another,
Jesus' warning & prophesy: Matthew 24:4. And Jesus answered and said to them: "Take heed that no one deceives you. 5. "For many will come in My name, saying, `I am the Christ,' and will deceive many.
I would like to insert here a differing point of view. In my opinion, Jesus did not say that many would claim to be Jesus but that they would take claim to being Christ. I personally have not heard of many taking claim to being Jesus but I have heard some, some with credentials, where they've been given credit or taking claim to being anointed. I believe the word "Christ" here could of have been referencing being anointed rather than referencing Jesus. Since the word Christ came from the word messiah which means anointed, I believe Jesus’ message may of been that many would take claim to being anointed and because of their credentials, many would believe in them, therefore opening the door of their heart, wide open for deception. Just food for thought!
Satan’s Agenda:
Jesus and His disciples warned all about being deceived. I do not believe that anyone is above being deceived. It’s a warning that we all need to take seriously especially when we are seriously seeking the presence of Christ. I think being deceived in it’s mature state is when Satan has convinced someone that they’re above being deceived. Satan does not want anyone to understand the personal relationship that each can have within the fullness of God. He is going to send his messengers, appearing godly which will convince many of the deceptions that’s hidden within that spirit of antichrist. Jesus said that His sheep will hear His voice and Satan is going to do his very best in veiling that personal relationship in Christ.
I personally believe that it makes sense to assume that some of Satan's messengers will be imbedded within credentialed theologians and some will place their trust in the credentials of these evil men rather than trusting in the Holy Spirit of God. For some that thirst for the messages given from the pulpit will continue to thirst but Jesus said ... whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.''To me the continual personal revelations that are given by the Holy Spirit is that "fountain of water springing up into everlasting life" that Jesus was talking about. (John 4:14) The encouragement we can receive from each other is a wonderful fellowship and valuable but our relationship in Christ is divine and where we truly find confidence and strength.
Jesus promised in John 6:37. "All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.
What I have shared are my beliefs which makes perfect sense to me. I do take claim to the anointing of Christ which for me is a personal treasure but I have no other message or agenda but to encourage anyone that does not already have a close personal relationship within the fullness of God but has that desire, to consider my testimony and go to the Lord with a sincere heart in prayer and find the richness of Christ for themselves.
Words of Jesus:
John 4:23. "But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24. "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.''
Tommy's Celebration
I know it seems weird to blog on a funeral but when they are exceptional I guess they need blogging.
The Lee family (my mom's side) is an unusual group, in a good way, a creative way, a weirdly wonderful way. Tommy was the epitome of all that. I think his triangle house on old US 81 near Summit SD is an example. He wanted a house that had only south, east and western exposures. Heat and light you know. So he built this house. Facing pointing north so when the cold north wind blew it blew right past the house.
I won't canonize him. I knew him too well. So if you have opinions, keep them to yourself. He was unusual, creative, loving, a good dad to his kids and quirky.
His kids aren't much different. So when we laid him to rest in the Hope Lutheran Church cemetery in Summit it was an event.
That little church hadn't seen so many. The overflow for lunch was more than they had signed up for.
It was packed out. Even the businesses in town closed so people could come to the funeral. All in all a great program.
He was buried in a simple tan shirt with a pack of Marlboros in his pocket (I think they were Marlboros). The casket was one like I want. Very simple, caskety, all wood, unvarnished softly stained. I'm sure it was not what the funeral director planned to collect for but it was beautiful in it's elegance and simplicity.
The young Norwegian pastor did the service in a young Norwegian pastor way. He read all the right passages and I think we prayed the Lords prayer 4 or 5 times. It seems like praying the Lords prayer in the Lutheran Church is when you have nothing else to say you end some brief comments with the words, "as our Lord taught us to pray.............." And off you go.
It was the music that impressed me. Of course we had How great thou art, amazing grace. You know, standard fare sung by a well meaning baritone or something. But then the CD player was fired up and they played Neil Young's Daddy went Walking. It was wonderful. Then a little later (after another round of the Lords Prayer) Eric Clapton sang My Fathers Eyes. Read the lyrics, at the end there wasn't a dry eye in the house. I was not really familiar with either of these songs but they were a perfect fit. Here's a Music Video of My Fathers eyes.
At the end as people were ushered out of the church to go to the cemetery the CD player haunted us with the Five Blind Boys of Alabama singing Swing Low Sweet Chariot, Coming for to Carry me Home.
And we did.
It was great to see all the relation. I'm glad I went. It was my kind of funeral. I told Peggy to take notes. When I Go, Celebrate. There'll be time for mourning later.
I'm sure Kathryn misses him. Seeing the pain of separation was almost too much for me. She rubbed his hand in the casket as to say, don't go. But he was already gone.
The kids at the cemetery were in real travail.
Goodbye is so hard. I said way too many this week.
The Lee family (my mom's side) is an unusual group, in a good way, a creative way, a weirdly wonderful way. Tommy was the epitome of all that. I think his triangle house on old US 81 near Summit SD is an example. He wanted a house that had only south, east and western exposures. Heat and light you know. So he built this house. Facing pointing north so when the cold north wind blew it blew right past the house.
I won't canonize him. I knew him too well. So if you have opinions, keep them to yourself. He was unusual, creative, loving, a good dad to his kids and quirky.
His kids aren't much different. So when we laid him to rest in the Hope Lutheran Church cemetery in Summit it was an event.
That little church hadn't seen so many. The overflow for lunch was more than they had signed up for.
It was packed out. Even the businesses in town closed so people could come to the funeral. All in all a great program.
He was buried in a simple tan shirt with a pack of Marlboros in his pocket (I think they were Marlboros). The casket was one like I want. Very simple, caskety, all wood, unvarnished softly stained. I'm sure it was not what the funeral director planned to collect for but it was beautiful in it's elegance and simplicity.
The young Norwegian pastor did the service in a young Norwegian pastor way. He read all the right passages and I think we prayed the Lords prayer 4 or 5 times. It seems like praying the Lords prayer in the Lutheran Church is when you have nothing else to say you end some brief comments with the words, "as our Lord taught us to pray.............." And off you go.
It was the music that impressed me. Of course we had How great thou art, amazing grace. You know, standard fare sung by a well meaning baritone or something. But then the CD player was fired up and they played Neil Young's Daddy went Walking. It was wonderful. Then a little later (after another round of the Lords Prayer) Eric Clapton sang My Fathers Eyes. Read the lyrics, at the end there wasn't a dry eye in the house. I was not really familiar with either of these songs but they were a perfect fit. Here's a Music Video of My Fathers eyes.
At the end as people were ushered out of the church to go to the cemetery the CD player haunted us with the Five Blind Boys of Alabama singing Swing Low Sweet Chariot, Coming for to Carry me Home.
And we did.
It was great to see all the relation. I'm glad I went. It was my kind of funeral. I told Peggy to take notes. When I Go, Celebrate. There'll be time for mourning later.
I'm sure Kathryn misses him. Seeing the pain of separation was almost too much for me. She rubbed his hand in the casket as to say, don't go. But he was already gone.
The kids at the cemetery were in real travail.
Goodbye is so hard. I said way too many this week.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Gift of Life and the Gift of A Life
"Get a life", You've heard people say. I've heard people say to me.
The gift of life is used in giving blood, opposition to abortion language and organ donation. What is more important is the Gift of A life.
Peggy spoke with a woman about our age a couple days ago. She is in a long tedious battle with cancer. One she knows she most likely won't win. A good day is one she wakes up to. It's a gift of Life and the day she wakes up is the gift of A life for her.
We spent Saturday with my folks. Dad (Earl) has been suffering from a lot of things. He's over 90 and that explains a lot. He spent about 128 days in a nursing home. Then he came home. Mom (Ruth) has been taking care of him. They have been married 68 years. She isn't quite as young as she once was. She is struggling to be a caretaker. But for the 16 months he has not been in the nursing home he has had LIFE. This for her to him has been a gift of A life. One she must be commended for giving. It is my hope and prayer that for as long as he is able to be outside the confines of a nursing home bed and as long as it's possible with help and other things that he can continue to Live. Just sitting outside in the breeze is a joy.
I know it's hard but it's a gift. Sometimes the best gifts given are the ones given by someone who pays a brutal price. Think Jesus. Think the gift of the Magi story you read as a kid.
Today we will say goodbye to my Uncle Tommy. He was a most unusual and creative man. He built the only 3 cornered house I am aware of. His opinion was that a house with only 3 sides would be more energy efficient. I'm not sure but he was creative. He will be missed. He was the last of my mom's (Ruby) family. The funeral is in a couple hours. This will not be a mournful situation. This will be a celebration of life.
He died as I hope I will. No pain, no agony, no nursing home. He just said goodbye and was gone.
So long Tom - Lead on.
The gift of life is used in giving blood, opposition to abortion language and organ donation. What is more important is the Gift of A life.
Peggy spoke with a woman about our age a couple days ago. She is in a long tedious battle with cancer. One she knows she most likely won't win. A good day is one she wakes up to. It's a gift of Life and the day she wakes up is the gift of A life for her.
We spent Saturday with my folks. Dad (Earl) has been suffering from a lot of things. He's over 90 and that explains a lot. He spent about 128 days in a nursing home. Then he came home. Mom (Ruth) has been taking care of him. They have been married 68 years. She isn't quite as young as she once was. She is struggling to be a caretaker. But for the 16 months he has not been in the nursing home he has had LIFE. This for her to him has been a gift of A life. One she must be commended for giving. It is my hope and prayer that for as long as he is able to be outside the confines of a nursing home bed and as long as it's possible with help and other things that he can continue to Live. Just sitting outside in the breeze is a joy.
I know it's hard but it's a gift. Sometimes the best gifts given are the ones given by someone who pays a brutal price. Think Jesus. Think the gift of the Magi story you read as a kid.
Today we will say goodbye to my Uncle Tommy. He was a most unusual and creative man. He built the only 3 cornered house I am aware of. His opinion was that a house with only 3 sides would be more energy efficient. I'm not sure but he was creative. He will be missed. He was the last of my mom's (Ruby) family. The funeral is in a couple hours. This will not be a mournful situation. This will be a celebration of life.
He died as I hope I will. No pain, no agony, no nursing home. He just said goodbye and was gone.
So long Tom - Lead on.
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