Christian Soldiers

CSO Newsletter Vol. 2, No. 3
November 09, 2007

I received a rebuttal to this statement I made in our previous newsletter – Vol 2, No 2, entitled The Dimensions of Faith:

“While works are an element of faith, salvation is not hinged upon works.”

A Mormon made the following response. Have a read through it and I will begin dissecting it on the other side.

“While such a thought is not even scriptural, than logically speaking following your logic, FAITH IS TOTALLY UNNECESSARY FOR SALVATION TOO SINCE FAITH & WORKS ARE INTERTWINED. It also follows that confessing Jesus Christ as our Saviour & accepting him as your Saviour is also “a work” which of course, according to your logic MUST ALSO BE MEANINGLESS TOWARDS SALVATION TOO. Course FAITH must be totally unnecessary too for salvation too, since it is “a work” TOO. Course all the principles that Jesus taught must also be unnecessary for salvation like possessing and incorporating “hope”, “faith”, “tolerance” and “charity” in one’s life too. The famous “Beatitutes” taught by Jesus must also be meaningless towards salvation too according to your logic. It also follows according to your logic, that following God’s commandments and laws are also unnecessary for salvation too since those are “works” too. The commandments must be an elective, or just a mere suggestion, but not a requirement. Jesus’s admonition in Math 5:48 must also be meant to take as just a suggestion, but certainly nothing serious like the subject of salvation.

You know come to think of it , you’re religious thought does have a certain appeal. LOL

I don’t have to do anything or become anyone special, and God will save me. I can be totally evil and do whatever I want, sin as much as I want, don’t have to repent, since repentence is a work, and God will save me irregardless of my fowl personality. Man, if that lie doesn’t appeal to the masses, nothing will. LOL

Is baptism a work? Are unbaptized christians not saved? Is faith a work? Is receiving the Holy Ghost by “the laying on of hands,” a “work”? Is receiving the HOly Ghost even necessary for salvation? HOw is the gift of the Holy Ghost even actually received?

James said: “faith without works IS DEAD, just like your religion of spiritual thought” which is a “cult” , & you don’t even know it. How sad!!!!!!!!!!

Come to think of it , Christians that believe in all the scriptures & not just a few, and believe that works is necessary for salvation too, not just the grace of Christ, have nothing to lose in the end, but those like you, THAT COULD BE MISTAKEN, and live your life in a lie, and BEHAVE ACCORDINGLY, CERTAINLY LOSE IT ALL IN THE END if you are wrong.

I already believe that part of the gospel in what you profess, so if you are correct WE ARE BOTH SAVED. However if you are wrong……..

You condemn me for believing MORE TRUTH and label me a “lost soul”. That’s the comedy and tragedy of it all.

Did anyone hear that right wing protestant that said on TV a few days ago that “Mormonism is a cult and Mormons AREN’T EVEN CHRISTIANS”?

Apparently, he is attacking Mitt Romney’s religion, since he is a Mormon, who is running for President, and Mr. Romney stands a good chance of being the republican choice, although he isn’t my first choice.

The ministers logic is, if Mitt Romney isn’t a Christian, he isn’t fit for running for a governmental office. LOL So much for opend minded thought & religious tolerance. LOL Since when should someone’s religion be a “political issue”? Have we gone so far down hill as a tolerant nation of the 1st amendment to the constitution?

Does it get any better as far as ignorance is concerned?

The first article of the Mormon faith penned by Joseph Smith reads: “We believe in God the Eternal Father and in his Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost”.

Can it get any plainer than that, that Mormons profess to be Christians? That ignorant minister who spreads “hate”, should study more. His ignorance of Mormon doctrine is showing.”

Here we go. Our respondent’s points will appear in bold.

1) “While such a thought is not even scriptural”

To review, the thought in question is:

“While works are an element of faith, salvation is not hinged upon works.”

Let us turn to the Word of God … the Holy Bible … there will be no references to the Book of Mormon or their doctrines and covenants.

Ephesians 2

1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

It is abundantly clear, evidenced by scripture, that any and all works associated with the act of Salvation are on the part of God, Who:

· Quickens us (calls us)

· Is merciful to us

· Loves us

· Raises us up

· Makes us sit

· Demonstrates Grace toward us

· Is kind to us

By Grace we are saved through faith and not by works… so that none may boast – can this possibly be any clearer? It is the gift of God!

We are HIS workmanship! As I originally stated, “works are an element of faith”, but we must be careful not to put the cart before the horse, as we are created in Christ Jesus (saved) unto, or for, good works, not the other way around.

Our respondent immediately attempts to attribute to me, using what he refers to as “your logic”, arguments or conclusions that were never raised by this author. This is a typical maneuver used to confuse, rather than clarify issues. But, let us humor him, shall we?

2) “logically speaking following your logic, FAITH IS TOTALLY UNNECESSARY FOR SALVATION TOO SINCE FAITH & WORKS ARE INTERTWINED.”

The article from which my statement – “While works are an element of faith, salvation is not hinged upon works.”- was taken, clearly states that faith is required for salvation, illustrated by:

Hebrews 11:

6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

3) “It also follows that confessing Jesus Christ as our Saviour & accepting him as your Saviour is also “a work” which of course, according to your logic MUST ALSO BE MEANINGLESS TOWARDS SALVATION TOO. Course FAITH must be totally unnecessary too for salvation too, since it is “a work” TOO.”

Here we have more spin attempting to confuse my stated position. I see no basis for labeling ‘confessing’, ‘accepting’ nor ‘faith’ as “a work”, and I certainly never drew nor presented those conclusions.

The respondent continuous sarcastically stating:

4) “Course all the principles that Jesus taught must also be unnecessary for salvation like possessing and incorporating “hope”, “faith”, “tolerance” and “charity” in one’s life too.”

We have already covered ‘hope’ and ‘faith’ in the previous article, once again ignored by our respondent.

Hebrews 11

1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Although it is not his intention, he partly makes a true statement. Tolerance and charity are not requirements for Salvation…for we are sinners before we are redeemed in Christ, as evidenced in Ephesians 2: 1-3, above. As we grow in Christ, through the Holy Spirit, these ‘fruits of the Spirit’ and others, are made manifest, as described in Galatians 5. The same holds true regarding his “Beatitutes” (sic) statement. No one is blessed apart from Salvation and the attributes described in the beatitudes are a result of, not the cause of, Salvation.

5) “It also follows according to your logic, that following God’s commandments and laws are also unnecessary for salvation too since those are “works” too. The commandments must be an elective, or just a mere suggestion, but not a requirement. Jesus’s admonition in Math 5:48 must also be meant to take as just a suggestion, but certainly nothing serious like the subject of salvation. ”

The Ten Commandments are of extreme importance, so much so, that no one was ever able to live up to them! That is the whole point of the new covenant and Salvation, by Grace, through faith!

Hebrews 8:

7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.

8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:

9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.

10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:

11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.

12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.

Also, to the aforementioned points made by our respondent and in regard to the reference to:

Matthew 5:

48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

I give answer with:

Romans 3:

19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

24Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

The following is purely malicious spin on the part of our respondent, and is not representative of anything penned by this author. To clarify our position, I will say that repentance is required for Salvation in so much as only a sincere and contrite affirmation of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is sufficient, which by nature includes turning from sin.

6) “You know come to think of it , you’re religious thought does have a certain appeal. LOL

I don’t have to do anything or become anyone special, and God will save me. I can be totally evil and do whatever I want, sin as much as I want, don’t have to repent, since repentence is a work, and God will save me irregardless of my fowl personality. Man, if that lie doesn’t appeal to the masses, nothing will. LOL”

The respondent continues with a string of questions…

7) “Is baptism a work? Are unbaptized christians not saved? Is faith a work? Is receiving the Holy Ghost by “the laying on of hands,” a “work”? Is receiving the HOly Ghost even necessary for salvation? HOw is the gift of the Holy Ghost even actually received?”

Baptism does indeed fall within the realm of works and is not a requisite of salvation, though we are admonished to be baptized as an outward display of our faith. Receiving of the Holy Spirit is a result of, not a condition for, Salvation.

Next we have our respondent (perhaps, combatant, would be a better adjective by this point) stating:

James said: “faith without works IS DEAD, just like your religion of spiritual thought” which is a “cult” , & you don’t even know it. How sad!!!!!!!!!!

Here we have an example of a single verse pulled out of its direct context, as well as out of the context of other Biblical teachings regarding the dynamics of Salvation.

James is addressing his Brethren, fellow followers of Jesus Christ, already saved people, to whom he is giving encouragement and edification. Works follow faith. Faith leads to Salvation. Works do not earn salvation, but emanate from the faithful.

James also says: “shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.”

I would encourage our respondent to pay as much attention to James 3 as he would have others focus on part of James 2

The next section takes two statements a bit out of order, but as they are related, I believe it is productive to do so:

9) “You condemn me for believing MORE TRUTH and label me a “lost soul”.”

“The first article of the Mormon faith penned by Joseph Smith reads: “We believe in God the Eternal Father and in his Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost”.

Can it get any plainer than that, that Mormons profess to be Christians?”

Firstly, I condemn no one. It’s not my place, nor do I have the ability. I do, however, believe that Mormons are one of many groups of people who have been misled and that the ‘more truth’ of which he speaks has been spun out of whole cloth.

As for the first article of faith, take another look at James 2, this time at verse 19:

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

Furthermore, Mormonism deviates sharply from the Bible on crucial issues.

While they refer to Jesus Christ, and profess to be Christians, they do not adhere to Biblical doctrine and represent Jesus as a creation, a spirit son of God the Father and brother to Lucifer, born through intercourse between Mary and God the Father.

According to Mormon doctrine, all human creations were spirit children before birth and have the ability to attain godhood, through works.

Satan, the author of confusion, hissed as much into the ear of Eve.

There are tons of resources available for a comparative analysis of Mormonism vs. Christianity. (See search results )

One such analysis is: The Truth About Mormons by Dennis and Rauni Higley, which begins with a quote:

President Joseph Fielding Smith (President of the LDS Church in the early 1970’s) stated:

“Mormonism must stand or fall on the story of Joseph Smith. He was either a Prophet of God, divinely called, properly appointed and commissioned or he was one of the biggest frauds this world has ever seen. There is no middle ground. If Joseph was a deceiver, who willfully attempted to mislead people, then he should be exposed, his claims should be refuted, and his doctrines shown to be false…”

(Doctrines of Salvation, vol. 1 pp.188-189.)

Personally, I have a difficult time believing the story that (simplified version):
Joseph Smith received and translated golden plates, purportedly written over a period of time dating back to 600 B.C. by Mormon and buried in the America’s by Moroni, to be found and deciphered by Smith, revealing to him that all the churches since Christ are in error and that Smith is to establish the one true church of Mormon.

Of course, the golden plates seem to be unavailable for skeptics to examine, however, the ancient scrolls, purchased by Smith and translated by him, to become the Book of Abraham, from ancient Egyptian (by a gift of translation ability he did not otherwise possess) did surface in 1966, have been translated by independent experts and found to be, in actuality, funerary documents from the Egyptian Book of the Dead. More details may be found in the article The Book of Abraham Papyri and Joseph Smith

We also have the matter of the claims that American Indians are descendants of the Lost Tribes of Israel. In short, DNA testing has since debunked this claim. More information is available at DNA Genealogies of American Indians and the Book of Mormon, the testimony of ex-Mormon, Simon Southerton and author of the book “LOSING A LOST TRIBE: Native Americans, DNA and the Mormon Church”

10) “Come to think of it , Christians that believe in all the scriptures & not just a few, and believe that works is necessary for salvation too, not just the grace of Christ, have nothing to lose in the end, but those like you, THAT COULD BE MISTAKEN, and live your life in a lie, and BEHAVE ACCORDINGLY, CERTAINLY LOSE IT ALL IN THE END if you are wrong.”

I don’t know how many different ways we can try to explain to our Mormon friends that it is they, and not Bible (sans the additional baggage of Mormon theology) believing Christians, who have bought into a lie, denying the nature of Christ and the propitiation of sin, by Grace, through His death and resurrection. While many Mormons do leave the tabernacles, millions more remain in spiritual bondage, believing that works will buy them some level of salvation and godhood, and calling those outside of their faith liars.

I would encourage them to study the following closely:

2 Peter 2:

1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;

6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;

7 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:

8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)

9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:

10 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.

11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord.

12 But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption;

13 And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you;

14 Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:

15 Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;

16 But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet.

17 These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever.

18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.

19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.

21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

11) “Did anyone hear that right wing protestant that said on TV a few days ago that “Mormonism is a cult and Mormons AREN’T EVEN CHRISTIANS”?”

….

“That ignorant minister who spreads “hate”, should study more. His ignorance of Mormon doctrine is showing.””

Actually, I had not heard that. Here is a search of the alleged quote above. Nothing turns up if searched using quotation marks, many results appear otherwise, and I did see an article regarding a Texas minister voicing his opinion, which is certainly within his 1^st Amendment rights, unless there has been a change in Constitutional law that I am not aware of. Whether that is the minister in question, I cannot be sure. Judging by our respondents persistence in spinning the facts of his issues, I can only assume that the minister may well be neither hateful nor ignorant, but simply someone expressing a concern that a political candidate who has succumbed to an erroneous belief system just may not be the best suited candidate for President of the United States.

Brothers and Sisters, I ask you to join me in prayer that followers of Mormonism and others caught up in false teachings see the errors of their beliefs and find true peace and salvation in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Amen

________________________________________________________________________

Proverbs 16

1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.

2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.

3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

4 The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

7 When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.

9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.

11 A just weight and balance are the LORD’s: all the weights of the bag are his work.

12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.

13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

15 In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.

21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

28 A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.

31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.

32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.

CSO Newsletter Vol. 2, No. 2
November 07, 2007

Why do we believe what we believe?

Outside the context of a Christian Newsletter, this would be an extremely broad question.

Still, perhaps I should use a more focused approach, for the sake of clarity.

Why do we, as Christians, believe what we believe?

Given the interactive nature of the blog/comment format, let me personalize this directly to you. Why do you believe what you believe, in regards to Christianity? (Are you a non-believer? Feel free to chime in, as well!)

Let’s take a quick look at the Old Testament, specifically within the story of Noah.

Leading into the command to Noah, we see:

Genesis 6:

5And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

6And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

7And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.

As I look at the world in which we live even today, Brothers and Sisters, I can’t help but marvel at the patience and compassion of God Almighty, that He has not blotted us all out of His sight, once and forever.

I am reminded, yet again, of the mercy shown upon us by a just God.

8But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.

13And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.

14Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch.

15And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits.

16A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it.

17And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die.

18But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons’ wives with thee.

19And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female.

20Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive.

21And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them.

22Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.

Was this an act of faith or of obedience on the part of Noah? After all, when God is talking directly to you, how much faith is required? There is, of course, a direct parallel to Christian faith…salvation by unmerited Grace.

Do we have a definition of faith to work with? I believe we do:

Hebrews 11

1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

If we look a bit further in the chapter, to verse 7, we, of course, learn that Noah acted in obedience, through faith.

7By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Indeed, we are clearly taught, in the preceding verse 6, that faith is of the greatest importance!

6But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

As we know, Brothers and Sisters, there are countless people who say they do not believe in God.

Perhaps, you were once one of them. I know I was…well, I tried to be, but couldn’t quite shake the feeling of conviction whenever I tried to flat-out deny the existence of a Supreme Being, so I settled for ‘agnostic’. I reasoned that I didn’t know if there was a God or not, therefore, I remained free to live my life as I chose. But, I finally had to succumb to the undeniable Truth:

Romans 1:

9Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

I hereby challenge ANYONE reading this to look around themselves and present to me a thesis which clearly supports the contention that the universe, the world, the countryside, a butterfly; whatever naturally occurring element you so desire to choose, exists without being the product of a Creator.

It is, of course, possible to believe in a Supreme Being or Beings, without acknowledging Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

We need look no further than Saul, a devout Jew, a Pharisee’s Pharisee if there ever was one, and a major player in the persecution of the early Church, even to the martyr, Stephen.
Let’s pause for a moment and consider who Stephen was:

• a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost – (Acts 6:5)
• full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people – (Acts 6:8)
• he spake with wisdom and the spirit – (Acts 6:10)
• all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel – (Acts 6:15)

Stephan found himself facing the council because “certain of the synagogue” conspired to “set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law: For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.”

When confronted with the false charges, Stephen could have surely denied them and kept a low profile and would probably have walked away none the worse for the encounter.

However, what he did was to recite an encapsulated summary of Jewish history from the days of Abraham to the death of Jesus, culminating in a powerful statement, surely stirred by faith and the Holy Spirit, saying:

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.

Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:

Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.
(Acts 7:51-53)

Folks, that is one of the best examples of politically incorrectness that I have ever seen, short of Jesus’ own teachings. And the results were predictable:

When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. (Acts 7:54)

Yikes! If there was ever a time for an individual to renege on his professed beliefs, for the sake of self-preservation, this would be it.

But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

Were this to happen today, to the subscribers to any of the various religions (read cults) that folks get caught up in, how many would, at this point, quickly set aside their faith as error?

And [they] cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul.

And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Saul was right there when the first recorded martyrdom for Christ took place with the stoning of Stephen.

Personally, I think that seeing the steadfastness of Stephens’ convictions, his adherence to his beliefs, should have been a wakeup call for Saul.

This was not the case.

And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. (Acts 8:1)

As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. (Acts 8:3)

Brothers and Sisters, though you may have read the following before, I ask that you take the time to read it once again, as it is a truly remarkable occurrence; the transforming of Saul to Paul:

Acts 9

1And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,

2And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

3And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

4And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

5And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

6And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

7And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.

8And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

9And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

10And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

11And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

12And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

13Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

14And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.

15But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

16For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.

17And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

18And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

19And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

20And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

21But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?

22But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

Paul later makes reference to his conversion experience:

Galatians 1:

11But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

12For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

13For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

14And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

15But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace,

16To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:

17Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.

Not many of us, I think, can give testimony to such a dramatic event in our lives as that which was experienced by Saul/Paul.

What is your testimony? Why do you believe what you believe?

For myself, some of the most powerful cement for the bonding of my belief that the testimonies of the Gospels is true, comes from the accounts of the persecutions and executions of the Apostles, who died with words of confirmation on their lips and in their hearts.

Stand Firm!

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Proverbs 15

1A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

2The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

3The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

4A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

5A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

6In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

11Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

12A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

13A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

15All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

16Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.

17Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

18A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

20A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

22Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

24The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

25The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.

26The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

27He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

28The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.

31The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

32He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

33The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.