Majority Rule May Spell Islamic Tyranny

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Majority Rule May Spell Islamic Tyranny






article by Tom Robinson





In discussing democracy, it's important to specify what is meant.



Pure democracy is simply the rule of the majority. That may sound great and even practical—unless you are in the minority and the issues concern your well-being and perhaps even your life.



A popular adage, anonymous but often misattributed to Benjamin Franklin, says in one of its forms, “Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch.” Majority rule is, in essence, the tyranny of the majority, wherein dissenters are oppressed. At its worst, it can devolve into mob rule, a fearful circumstance that can break down into anarchy and calls for authoritarian clampdown by a single leader.



American Founding Father John Adams said: “Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide. It is in vain to say that democracy is less vain, less proud, less selfish, less ambitious, or less avaricious than aristocracy or monarchy. It is not true, in fact, and nowhere appears in history. Those passions are the same in all men, under all forms of simple government, and when unchecked, produce the same effects of fraud, violence, and cruelty” (letter to John Taylor, April 15, 1814).



With such thoughts in mind, America was founded as a republic. In a republic, representatives represent the interests of constituents in a voting assembly. When these representatives are chosen by the populace, the form of government is called a democratic republic, which is the case with the United States. Of course, some countries refer to themselves as democratic republics even if truly free elections are absent. Communist regimes are notorious for this.



Yet even a true democratic republic does not necessarily promote freedom. The forces of democracy are still at work in selecting representation. A takeoff on the humorous quote up front notes that in a republic, the flock gets to vote for which wolves vote on lunch. The question is, what do the majority support? Are they selfish, or do they care about others? This is why Adams earlier said: “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other” (military address, Oct. 11, 1798). It is clear from other quotes that the religion he had in mind was Christianity. It certainly was not Islam, which he inveighed against severely elsewhere.



The religion of Islam has itself been an oppressive force in the Middle East. Yet ironically, it has been held in check by the totalitarian regimes of the recent past. The rise of democracy in this region where the common people are predominantly Muslim fundamentalists could spell increased imposition of sharia (Islamic law) domestically and a step up in jihad (struggle or holy war) abroad.



Consider the Palestinians. Free elections in Gaza handed the government over to Hamas, a terrorist organization devoted to wiping out the state of Israel. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.



There is great concern about Egypt, the most populous nation in the Arab world, as well as many other Muslim nations. One source reports: “Much of the Egyptian population that in recent days has rebelled against the thirty-year regime of Hosni Mubarak says that it prefers democracy to any other form of government. At the same time, however, and in an overwhelming majority, they want those who commit adultery to be stoned, thieves to have their hands cut off, and those who abandon the Muslim religion to be put to death. This is the result of a survey conducted in Egypt and in six other majority Muslim countries by the Washington-based Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, the world leader for research in this field” (Sandro Magister, “‘Democratic’ Egypt Sends Apostates to Their Death,” chiesa.expressonline.it, Feb. 3, 2011).



According to the survey, this is true of majorities in Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan and Nigeria. Only in Turkey and Lebanon were these minority positions. But fundamentalism has made headway in Turkey, while in Lebanon the terrorist organization Hezbollah has recently achieved a dominant position in the government.



The Pew survey further stated that 54 percent of Egyptians want to end their nation’s peace treaty with Israel (“Egyptians Back Sharia Law, End of Israel Treaty, Poll Shows,” Bloomberg, April 26, 2011). And “in a runoff between modernizers and fundamentalists, 59 percent of Egyptians say that they side with the fundamentalists, against 27 percent who root for the former. . . Returning to the death penalty for those who abandon Islam, called for by 84 percent of Egyptians, it must be pointed out that those who want it are men and women, old and young, educated and uneducated, without distinction. In Jordan, the level of support for sentencing apostates to death rises all the way to 86 percent” (Magister, emphasis added).



Here’s a clear case, then, where democracy does not equate to freedom.

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Praying for Those in the Path of Hurricane Irene

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Praying for Those in the Path of Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene is set to hit the east coast



Source: NOAAHurricane Irene is moving up the east coast of the United States. It is expected to impact the lives of people from Florida to New England. Many cities along the coast have already been evacuated in anticipation of the pending destruction.



When natural disasters loom it is important to remember the words that God inspired: "... The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much."' - James:5:16Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Please join us in praying for those that will be affected by Irene.

The Sabbath: It's Not Just a Good Idea, It's a Command from God!

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The Sabbath: It's Not Just a Good Idea, It's a Command from God!


A commentary by Randy D'Alessandro






A recent book is bringing public attention on the seventh-day Sabbath rest. While many agree that a day of rest every week is a good principle, is there more to it than that? See what God and your Bible say about the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship.





Source: Photos.comRecently, on the television morning show Fox and Friends, I saw an interview with Senator Joe Lieberman discussing his new book, "The Gift of Rest: Rediscovering the Beauty of the Sabbath."



Mr. Lieberman, as you recall, is not only a United States Senator but a former vice-presidential nominee and chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Committee.



The need for a day of rest

As a Sabbath-keeper I was intrigued by this man, who despite his high profile lifestyle, spoke on how the Sabbath has anchored, ordered, and inspired his life. Mr. Lieberman also expressed his encouragement of others who pick a day of the week to rest and keep in a special way.



Setting aside one day in seven as a special day of rest is indeed a good principle, but the real questions are: What does God think, and what does the Bible say? Is resting once a week just a good idea whose time has come in a hectic world, or is resting and worshiping God on a specific day of the week a command from God himself—not just to the Jewish people but to all peoples at all times?



Confusion about the Sabbath

Leaders and authorities from many religious denominations candidly acknowledge that Saturday is the biblical Sabbath day and that there is no biblical basis for Sunday observance. For example, note the following quotes:



"Nowhere in the Bible do we find that Christ or the Apostles ordered that the Sabbath be changed from Saturday to Sunday. We have the commandment of God given to Moses to keep holy the Sabbath day, that is the 7th day of the week, Saturday. Today most Christians keep Sunday because it has been revealed to us by the [Roman Catholic] church outside the Bible" ("To Tell You the Truth," The Catholic Virginian, Oct. 3, 1947, p. 9).



"But since Saturday, not Sunday, is specified in the Bible, isn't it curious that non-Catholics who profess to take their religion directly from the Bible, and not the Church, observe Sunday instead of Saturday? Yes of course, it is inconsistent; but this change was made about 15 centuries before Protestantism was born, and by that time the custom was universally observed. They have continued the custom, even though it rests upon the authority of the Catholic Church and not upon an explicit text in the Bible" (Dr. John O'Brien, Faith of Millions, pp. 543-544).



"You may read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, and you will not find a single line authorizing the sanctification of Sunday. The Scriptures enforce the religious observance of Saturday, a day which we never sanctify" (James Cardinal Gibbons, Faith of our Fathers, 88th ed., p. 89).



"We observe Sunday instead of Saturday because the Catholic Church, in the Council of Laodicea, transferred the solemnity from Saturday to Sunday" (Peter Geiermann, The Convert's Catechism of Catholic Doctrine, 1957, p. 50).



"The Sabbath was binding in Eden, and it has been in force ever since. This fourth commandment begins with the word 'remember,' showing that the Sabbath already existed when God wrote the law on the tables of stone at Sinai. How can men claim that this one commandment has been done away with when they will admit that the other nine are still binding?" (Dwight L. Moody, Weighed and Wanting, pp. 47-48).



The Sabbath is a gift—and a command—from God

Jesus Christ, in condemning the practices of the religious leaders of His day, said, "In vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men…All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition" (Mark:7:7-9[7]Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.[8]For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.[9]And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.).



According to Christ's own statements, it is possible to worship Him in a way that does no good—that is, it is in vain. God does not give us the choice of how to worship Him—only whether we will worship Him according to His instructions or not.



Bravo to Senator Lieberman for bringing attention to this important command from God! The United Church of God offers you literature that will walk you through the scriptures offering more information about this special gift from God to all mankind. Our booklet Sunset to Sunset: God's Sabbath Rest is available at no cost or obligation.

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Does the Bible Predict Storms Like Katrina for the End Time?

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Does the Bible Predict Storms Like Katrina for the End Time?

A commentary by Scott Ashley

In Matthew:24:6-8[6]And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.[7]For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.[8]All these are the beginning of sorrows., Jesus Christ foretold some of the signs that would mark the age leading up to His return: "And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows."



We have certainly seen devastating earthquakes in recent years. The December 2004 earthquake off Indonesia was the most powerful in decades, unleashing a massive tsunami that took some 300,000 lives—the greatest number of casualties from an earthquake in more than 500 years.



But this word translated "earthquakes" in Matthew:24:7For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. deserves a closer look. The Greek word is seismos, from which we derive such English words as "seismic" and "seismology," referring to earthquake activity and the study of earthquakes. Strong's Lexicon defines it as "a commotion, i.e. (of the air) a gale, (of the ground) an earthquake—earthquake, tempest" (Strong's No. 4578).



Seismos encompasses a broader meaning than just the earth shaking. Matthew 8, for example, records the famous story of how a violent storm overtook Jesus and His disciples on the Sea of Galilee, threatening to capsize their fishing boat and drown them—until Jesus miraculously calmed the winds and waves.



The word used in verse 8 for this sudden, powerful storm is seismos, here translated "great tempest." The parallel account in Mark:4:37And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. calls it a "great windstorm." Therefore, seismos can also refer to violent storms involving wind and water, and isn't limited strictly to earthquakes as we might assume.



When Jesus Christ foretold "famines, pestilences and earthquakes in various places," His words encompass natural disasters that include earthquakes, but also can apply to hurricanes, typhoons, tornadoes and other such violent storms in the air.



As the world recently saw with Katrina's devastation of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, hurricanes can be enormously destructive. Katrina took more than 1,000 lives and caused an estimated $200 billion in damage. In 1998, rainfall from hurricane Mitch generated more than a million landslides in Honduras alone, wiping our roads and burying towns and farmland.



Are such natural disasters increasing as Jesus foretold?



The Sept. 16 issue of Science magazine reports on research by scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado. They concluded that while the number of hurricanes and cyclones had not increased, "the researchers did find a sharp increase during the past 35 years in the number of category 4 and 5 tropical cyclones, the most intense storms that cause most of the damage on landfall" (Richard Kerr, "Is Katrina a Harbinger of Still More Powerful Hurricanes?", p. 1807).



Specifically, they found that the frequency of the most dangerous and damaging storms—those rated category 4 and 5—increased by 80 percent from the 1970s to the last decade. Their conclusions mirrored findings by a Massachusetts Institute of Technology meteorologist reported in the Aug. 4 issue of Nature.



Such findings should certainly make us sit up and take notice. Later in that same prophecy of the end time, as recorded in Luke:21:25-28[25]And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;[26]Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.[27]And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.[28]And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. (New International Version), Jesus says: "There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea." This appears to be not just a reference to massive storms, but also to more devastating tsunamis like the Indian Ocean tsunami from last December.

Here we also find Jesus using an interesting Greek word. Salos, translated "tossing," means "the tossing motion of large waves on a body of water—'surging waves'" (Louw-Nida Lexicon). A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament defines its meaning as "a rolling or tossing motion, surge, esp. of the waves in a rough sea . . ." Both of these definitions mention surging of waves. The huge storm surges produced by hurricanes are perhaps their most damaging aspect.

Jesus continues: "Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."

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Confronting the Anxiety of Choice

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Confronting the Anxiety of Choice








A blog post by John Miller

Submitted August 13, 2011

David Mamet in his book The Secret Knowledge on the Dismantling of American Culture makes an insightful observation:



“The Jews were led through the Sea of Reeds and, in the desert, complained, and wished to return to Egypt and slavery. Life in Egypt was by no means perfect; its only attraction was the absence of the necessity of choice. But it made all people equal. No slave need choose between good and evil, morality and immorality, all such anxiety had been usurped by or surrendered to the masters” (p. 51).



By contrast God famously declared “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” (Deuteronomy:30:19I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:). Therein God expresses both his desire that man live a blessed life and the utter impossibility of the absence of choice—not to choose is of itself a choice; usually a detrimental one.



Still the “anxiety of choice” has condemned generations to the servitude of slavery because choosing life was deemed too risky, too hard, or even unfair—“You shall not surely die. For God knows that…” (Genesis:3:4-5[4]And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:[5]For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.). Freedom is found by choosing truth over illusion, fact over fiction masquerading as truth, even when that choice yields challenge over immediate benefit—the land of promise filled with milk and honey first required a challenging trek in the wilderness.



“You shall know the truth,” Jesus promised, “and the truth shall set you free” (John:8:32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.). This is perhaps the most profound principle articulated by Christ. It is facing the often harsh realities of truth that ultimately leads to freedom. Still human nature would rather have us live in denial than enjoying the liberty confronting even harsh realities would bring—sticking our head in the proverbial sand while exposing our backside is not only embarrassing to those around us but makes progress impossible because the sand in which we believe to hide has us stuck; constrained only by our own foolish choice to bury our head.



The Apostle John suggests an amazingly simple formula—Fess Up and find freedom: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John:1:9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.).



What is so hard about that? The same irrational anxiety of choice that caused the infamous Israelites to perish in the wilderness.



Let’s choose life by confronting even the harsh realities of truth so that we may enjoy both liberty and life.







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An Important 40th Anniversary to Ponder

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An Important 40th Anniversary to Ponder

A commentary by Rex Sexton

Posted August 18, 2011





Just over 40 years ago the United States government decided to go off the gold standard, U.S. dollars no longer being backed up by their value in gold. Four decades later we are feeling the economic crunch that comes from unwise financial practices. Jesus Christ's coming rule on earth represents the only real solution.





Source: Photos.comGod uses the number 40 quite often—it often designates a time of testing. It is mentioned 146 times in the Bible. Examples in the Bible are frequent: The Israelites were 40 years in the wilderness; Jesus and others fasted for 40 days; and Jonah:3:4And Jonah began to enter into the city a day's journey, and he cried, and said, Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown. shows that God warned Nineveh for 40 days. So what is this anniversary?



On August 15, 1971, President Richard Nixon announced that the United States would no longer convert U.S. dollars to gold. Gold and silver certificate money, which only we older citizens can remember, were then replaced with government-issued coupons with no expiration dates. For the first time since the Civil War, our money had no real value and could be valued based on what traders thought its value might be. It is now known as "fiat money," which is based on confidence in the issuing government.



Gold replaced by printed money



Why was this done? The obvious reason was that the treasury was broke and owed far more in issued money than we had gold in reserve. The surface reason was spending for the war in Vietnam, which had gone on for eight years to no avail, but at a huge expense in money and lost lives. "Great Society" entitlement programs were also beginning to take their toll.



Since money could now be made out of paper and ink, restraints on spending almost disappeared. Unfortunately many politicians pass it out by the bucketful to their supporters so that they can keep getting elected. The result: The amount of money has mushroomed. The national debt in 1971 was $378 billion. 40 years later it is $16 trillion on the surface, and four or five times that in unfunded obligations. It is obvious that we cannot ever repay this debt and looking unlikely that we'll ever recover from the mess. The collapse of our financial system is predicted now by many experts.



An uncertain future



Is this significant? Within a few days of this anniversary date, the rating agency S&P cut the U.S. government debt rating from AAA to AA+ with a negative outlook, the first time in modern history that one of the three main ratings firms has stripped the U.S. of its triple A status. This move puts the rating of the world's biggest economy below Liechtenstein and more than a dozen other countries, and on par with Belgium and New Zealand.



Our founding fathers pledged to sacrifice their "lives, fortunes, and sacred honor" in order to create a better future for their children, grandchildren and future generations. Our recent leaders in many nations have done just the opposite: They are sacrificing the prosperity of future generations in order to have what they want for themselves. Abandoning the financial and honesty principles in God's Word has cost us dearly.



The oncoming financial train wreck is beyond the control of any of us individually. So what can we do? Since we know what the Bible says about the fragility of the world economy, we should prepare ourselves and our families for economic hardship. Plan wisely and save for the rainy days ahead.



God's Kingdom to bring true prosperity



Consider what else Jesus Christ said about money in the Sermon on the Mount: "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal, But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal" (Matthew:6:19-20[19]Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:[20]But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:).



When Jesus Christ returns, He will fix all of the problems mankind has caused for itself—including economic problems. We should try to live today as He did in His physical existence; He knew that material riches are temporary at best, but having spiritual treasure would endure. Strive for the treasure that will last forever!



If you would like to read more about what the Bible says about proper financial management, please read our free booklet Managing Your Finances today.

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Book Review: Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II

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Book Review: Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II






article by Darris McNeely





Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II by Jonathan Kwitney Henry Holt and Company, New York, 1997



Jonathan Kwitney's Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II,is a sympathetic treatment of the life of the former Bishop of Krakow, Karol Wojtyla. This 678-page biography traces the present Pope's life from his birth in 1920 in Wadowice, Poland. His story is told within the context of Cold War Poland and its struggle against Communism. John Paul is presented as a key player in the overthrow of Communism in Eastern Europe and Russia.



This book offers a review of the major issues that have concerned the Roman Catholic Church in the past 50 years. The issues of Communism, birth control, ecumenicalism, and attacks upon the centuries old authority of the papacy and church tradition, are all treated in this book. You are introduced to the themes of Polish cultural history, basic Catholic theology, and Vatican politics. The book seems well researched. The author delves into many issues covered by previous books on the papacy and refutes previously held ideas.



A strong case is made that this Slavic Pope was largely responsible for the peaceful overthrow of Communism. His support for Poland's Solidarity movement along with his visits to the country helped galvanize resistance to the Moscow backed regime. Indeed, he did employ nonviolent methods as effectively as anyone, but the influence of his role will be analyzed and debated for some time.



Fascinating Personal Insights



Kwitney offers fascinating insights into the personal life of Karol Wojtyla. By age 21 he was orphaned and alone. After working in a factory and dabbling in the theater he decided to enter the priesthood. This decision is presented as a natural step for an introspective and private individual who was not known for forming any romantic relationships with the opposite sex. His personal habits reveal a man of simple tastes who has collected few material goods through his life. Repeatedly he would give away the gifts of clothing from friends and continue wearing the used items to which he was accustomed. He has never had an interest in money or the things money can buy. A bishop once told a supporter not to hand then Cardinal Wojtyla any money, which would have gone to some other cause, because he would not know what to do with it.



His ability to do two things at once is legendary. While listening to lectures or after dinner conversation his habit would be to read a book or sort through a pile of correspondence. Afterwards, he would always be able to sum up what was said around him.



Pope John Paul II has a reputation of being a mystic. This is well known and documented. Following the attempt on his life in 1981 he attributed his safety to the Virgin Mary, whom he has always venerated with special regard. Interestingly, the date of this shooting came on the anniversary, May 13, of the 1917 appearance of the virgin to three shepherd girls in Fatima. An early influence in this area came from a monk named Padre Pio whose stories claimed personal contact with God and the devil. He claimed supernatural powers that included exorcism and healing of disease.



At the height of his fame a multi-million dollar tourist industry sprung up around his home monastery, San Giovanni Rotondo, near the city of Foggia. Pio claimed to literally wrestle in the night with demons that would strip him naked and beat him. In 1947, as a seminary student in Rome, Karol Wojtyla began to visit this strange monk. He became a devoted adherent and formed with the monk the "strangest relationship of his life." Wojtyla even asked him to pray for a friend who had been diagnosed with cancer. The friend was "instantaneously cured" according to the future Pope. To a fellow Cardinal he confided that "Padre Pio told him he would gain the highest post in the Church" (page 101). Wojtyla thought it meant he might one day be a cardinal.



Impressions of America



In 1969 he made his first visit to North America, visiting most major cities. His opinion was that "the U.S. was greedy and overly commercial, and had come loose from its spiritual moorings" (page 227). John Paul II has always viewed Western, and particularly American culture, as greedy, self-centered, and inherently inhumane. His early trips to the U.S. left him amazed at the wealth of America compared to what he was accustomed to in Poland. His reaction was conditioned by his formative years under both Nazi and Communist rule. His native Poland has suffered great depravation during his lifetime. He has called American society a "culture of death" and thereby alienated himself from a potential audience. It appears he has not been able to fully grasp the nature of American democracy.



In 1976 as Cardinal of Krakow, Wojtyla led Pope Paul VI and other Vatican officials on a spiritual retreat. He gave 22 lectures grouped under the heading "Sign of Contradiction." Among the themes he developed were the birth of the new man, and talks about science as a common ground for all religions. He introduced an idea he would pursue into his papacy. He said the Bible was "the key to understanding today's world.... I think it is true that today one cannot understand either Sartre or Marx without having first read and pondered very deeply the first three chapters of Genesis." He dwelt on the temptations of Adam and Eve by the serpent, which for him became a real devil. These are interesting concepts for a future Pope to be teaching a sitting Pope.



His Vision for the Future



Particular attention is paid to the Pope's efforts at ecumenism. In December 1983 he became the first Pope to preach in a Lutheran church. In his sermon he took a giant step toward rehabilitating the monk who broke with Rome. He said, "He could see from afar the dawn of the restoration of our unity." John Paul hopes to live to the year 2000, during which he plans to visit the places on the road taken by the people of God of the Old Covenant, starting from the places associated with Abraham and Moses, through Egypt as far as Damascus, the city that witnessed the conversion of Paul. He dreams of convening a meeting of leaders of the major world faiths on Mount Sinai "to work together to give our world a more metaphysical dimension" (page 673).



This Pope has gone to extraordinary lengths to promote the unity of all faiths. While not all his overtures have been reciprocated, he has persisted in establishing dialogue and holding meetings with other faiths in an attempt to heal the breaches. In the encyclical Ut Unum Sint(That All May Be One), he called ecumenism "a dialogue of conversion, and went on to hint at a desire to "find a way of exercising the primacy [referring to the papal office] while in no way renouncing what is essential to its mission, [but] nonetheless [be] open to a new situation" (page 673).



The book concludes with a bleak perspective of the church and the world. Statistics on abortion and morality and a declining aging leadership within Catholicism have the pope "praying that the year 2000 will bring a second miracle." WNP

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Real Sailors and Genuine Christians

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Real Sailors and Genuine Christians

article by John Elliott





Are you the “real deal,” or merely a wannabe?







Source: Clipart.comStepping aboard his 24-foot sailboat, Robin Graham sailed away from waving parents at the Port of Los Angeles and slowly became a speck in an endless landscape of white-capped waves and deep blue ocean swells. It was his 16th birthday the day he plunged through a world in which everything rose, twisted, turned, leaned and fell, constantly, day and night. His record-breaking ocean voyage circumnavigated the perilous globe and was unique in all of history.



Meanwhile, north of Los Angeles, another 16-year-old studied ocean sailing in a class taught by a certified U.S. Coast Guard instructor. That teen poured over coastal waterway charts in a class that analyzed their ciphered depictions of shorelines, depths, navigational aids, hazards, latitude, longitude, restricted zones, navigational aids, compass adjustments, currents, and endless rules. The boy plotted imaginary courses using headings and bearings adjusted for obstacles, sea-lanes, currents, tides, and wind direction. In time, the class’ sailing knowledge was tested and he was officially “certified” in marine sailing.



Earlier in your life, you became intrigued with Christianity. You heard from others what it was like and desired to learn more. You were educated through teaching and you studied until you became a “certified” Christian at baptism. Since then, you have been taught Christian principles and instructed from God’s Word in preparation for directing a godly course in your life.



2 Timothy:3:15-17[15]And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.[16]All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:[17]That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. says “…and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wisefor salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (16) All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”(Emphasis added throughout)



Question: Are you a real Christian?

Question: Was the “certified” teenager a real sailor?



The answer to both could be “yes.” In reality, religious people have biblical knowledge, just as the teen had nautical knowledge. Having knowledge of how to sail expertly, and receiving advice from experts, can make one feel as if he is also a competent sailor. But a learner of sailing cannot be compared with one who actually sails the high seas. Similarly, a learner of God’s Word may feel godly, but he cannot be compared with one who actually lives by every Word of God (Luke:4:4And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.).



Reading biblical admonitions and hearing sermons about love and serving can make one feel like he is growing in them. Associating with genuine Christians and discussing godliness together can also make one feel as if he or she is a genuine Christian. But the truth is that we must each diligently work to show ourselves approved by God (2 Timothy:2:15Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.) and to work out our own salvation with deep reverence and trembling in fear of making grave errors (Philippians 2:12). Similarly, every sailor must chart and actually sail his personal course across a treacherous ocean with deep respect for the potential grave upon which he sails. As with sailors, it is also with Christians – the lack of tested experience can lead to disaster. “This charge I commit unto you…that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; (19) Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck”(1 Timothy:1:18-19[18]This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;[19]Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: KJV).



Real Sailors

The sunny afternoon was cut by a chilly breeze sweeping the deck of the 31-foot sailboat on its nearly silent voyage passing below the twin towers of the World Trade Center and on to the Statue of Liberty. The “certified,” “instructed,” and twice-sailed man was briefly invited to steer the sleek 31-foot sailboat and for those five minutes of the two-hour cruise, he was the pilot steering its course. The feel of the tiller, the tautness of the sails and the ambiance of Manhattan Island renewed sailing as his beloved sport-of-sports once again. The wind in the sails made him feel good to be a sailor again.



Does knowing that you have God’s Holy Spirit give you confidence of being a genuine Christian? Does being called to be a son or daughter of God assure you of being in the Body of Christ? Does knowing that God will never leave or forsake you provide you with security of your resurrection at the seventh Trumpet? If you re-read those questions, you may notice that all of their components are merely things God does to prepare you to act. Yet, their mere presence can give a false sense of spirituality, even before any use of them has yet occurred. An important question we might ask is, “Do I feel like a Christian, or am I living a Christ-like life?” Experience is expected to follow knowledge as you use godly education and apply biblical teaching to actual hands-on deeds of service in everyday life.



You are a Christian and you are holy because Christ purchased you with His blood. At your baptism, He forgives your sins and hallows you with his Holy Spirit. That state comprises your starting point. Jesus gave us the Parable of the Talents (i.e., Holy Spirit) to show God’s intent for us to move beyond being just “certified” as holy children and “educated” in godliness (Matthew:25:14-28[14]For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.[15]And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.[16]Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.[17]And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.[18]But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.[19]After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.[20]And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.[21]His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.[22]He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.[23]His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.[24]Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:[25]And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.[26]His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:[27]Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.[28]Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.). He next describes His responsibility of saving only the serving “sheep” from among un-thoughtful “goats.” Christ must assess your character by the experience you have gained from using His Spirit to perform godliness in every imaginable situation (Matthew:25:35-36[35]For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:[36]Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.). His selection will involve a quality and degree of experience gained in the living of Christianity. Matthew:25:29For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath., “For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.”



After some 45 years of being associated with sailing, I could easily walk back into the Lincoln Harbor Yacht Club in New York City and say, “Sir, I would like to rent your 31-foot sailboat.” Its owner would certainly ask, “Who are you?” I would answer, “I’m a sailor.” He would reply, “I don’t know you, what boats have you been sailing?” I could inform him that at age 16 I took an official ocean sailing course (inside an office building). And at age 36, my brother demonstrated for me how to trim a sail and how to tack into the wind. And then how I had managed to rent a 25’ sailboat, twice! I could surprise him with, “I have even sailed before on your 31’ sailboat, and the pilot let me steer it.”



“Son,” he would say, “that does not make you a sailor. Our sailors have spent years training with instructors, growing their skills in the sailboat’s systems, operations, performance, structural limitations, maintenance, emergency procedures, river and ocean currents, tacking, marine navigation, and following all the federal and state navigation laws. Meanwhile, what have you been doing?”



I could plead, “Well, I read Robin Graham’s book The Dove, and I’ve spoken with sailors from the high seas, and I would have taken up sailing many years ago, except it was inconvenient, expensive, and time consuming.” He would shake his head and sigh, “But, you didn’t actually get around to sailing yourself.”



“But, I love sailing, and I know how,” I would plead! All he could honestly say would be, “Please leave. We only rent to real sailors.”



Similarly, Christ has the responsibility of assigning leadership positions in the Kingdom to only real Christians. Luke:13:25-27[25]When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:[26]Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.[27]But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity., “… you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open for us,' and He will answer and say to you, 'I do not know you, where you are from,' (26) then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.' (27) But He will say, 'I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.'”



Perhaps you and I are not counted among true ocean sailors. There are some activities we like to experience vicariously and enjoy them in a casual association. However, we need to insure that we are indeed genuine Christians, living Christ-like lives of service. Those judged so will be counted worthy of God’s Kingdom. 2 Thessalonians:1:5Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:, “…the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God…”



For more reading on being a genuine Christian, request the booklets: You Can Have Living Faith and Transforming Your Life: The Process of Conversion.

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Mary A Woman of Faith

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.


Mary A Woman of Faith


article by Robert Berendt





There are many remarkable events that have taken place in the history of mankind—and many remarkable people involved in these events.



Perhaps the greatest events in human history were the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. One of the most remarkable people involved was a young woman named Mary. God chose this young woman to bear His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. He chose carefully and wisely. Mary had the qualities of character and genetic background that God was seeking. She had the highest standards of personal behavior and of devotion to God and His way of life.



Mary was most likely a teenager when she was engaged to Joseph. Both of them were descendants of King David, though they were not considered among the aristocrats of Israel. Mary was related to Elizabeth, the wife of the priest, Zacharias. Very little is said about Mary’s childhood or outlook on religion. She appears suddenly in scripture as the one God selected to bear and give birth to Jesus Christ.



Luke:1:26-28[26]And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,[27]To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.[28]And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. records that Mary was a virgin who was betrothed to Joseph. Unlike our custom of an engagement, a betrothal was a legally binding commitment to marriage, confirmed by an oath. The angel addressed Mary as “highly favored” and said, “the Lord is with you.” The angel went on to explain what was to happen—Mary knowing that if she was found to be pregnant before marriage, she could be put to death. Her answer is an inspiration to us all. Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke:1:38And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.). She did not just remain silent as though she had no control. Mary said, “Yes!”



Her answer reflected unconditional faith towards God. It reflected the complete trust that God requires of those He chooses. It was similar to the trust Abraham showed when God tested him with the requested sacrifice of Isaac (Genesis:22:2And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.). God did not reveal all that He had in mind for Abraham, and He did not reveal the future in all its detail to Mary. At the presentation of Jesus before God, a righteous old man was inspired to tell Mary that Jesus had a great destiny to fulfill and that a sword would pierce her soul (Luke:2:25And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him., 35). What could all of this mean? Mary and Joseph “marveled” (Luke:2:33And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.) at these words. Mary treasured each event and word in her heart (Luke:2:51And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.), but did not question what God had planned.



Trusting in God

Mary likely did not expect that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, or that she and Joseph would have to flee to Egypt. She experienced some wonderful things during the pregnancy and birth, but the true purpose of Jesus’ life and the events that would change the course of the world were hidden from her. She did not expect to be standing at the foot of the cross and watching her Son die a horrible death. It was only later that she, too, knew Jesus’ true identity and purpose. God did not have to ask Mary for her continued obedience; He knew she was committed and the answer would always be, “Yes.”



Mary and Joseph continued on with their lives. Joseph was the father of their other children. God made all the necessary arrangements for the birth of Jesus and the flight to Egypt. He brought the Magi to visit and bring the gifts for Joseph and Mary. Matthew:2:13-15[13]And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.[14]When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:[15]And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. are revealing verses. Here we see that Joseph too was obedient to God and aware that something from God was happening in his life. God sent an angel during a vision or dream Joseph had—and gave the instructions to go to Egypt. Mary was part of the complete plan and package. Their attitude of obedience to God was impressive. There was no jealousy when God gave the visions to Joseph. Mary accepted that and had no doubts. Matthew:2:19-23[19]But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,[20]Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.[21]And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.[22]But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:[23]And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. tells of God once again giving Joseph instructions as to when to leave Egypt and where to live in Judea. Nazareth was in God’s plan, not theirs.



Following Christ

John:2:1-11[1]And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:[2]And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.[3]And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.[4]Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.[5]His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.[6]And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.[7]Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.[8]And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.[9]When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,[10]And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.[11]This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. helps us understand the relationship between Jesus and Mary. It is obvious that Jesus loved His mother, and she respected Him. When there was a shortage of wine and Mary asked her son to do something about it, Jesus replied, “My hour has not yet come” (John:2:4Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.). Mary knew Jesus was more than just a little unusual, but God did not show Mary every detail of the future. By now, Mary too had been strengthened in her continued trust in God. Now she realized that the scriptures were being fulfilled by Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem and their life in Nazareth. As time passed and Jesus became more visible in Judea, Mary remained involved.



John:2:12-13[12]After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.[13]And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. show that Mary and Jesus’ brothers traveled from Cana to Capernaum with Jesus and the disciples. There was nothing unusual about this. Luke:8:1And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, reveals that Jesus traveled from town to town. When we see Mary and Jesus’ brothers coming to see Him, we need to realize that at a time when communication was long and slow compared to today, it would have been difficult to find out where Jesus was unless He kept in constant contact with His family. (Joseph is not mentioned at all—it is possible that he had died by this time.) When Jesus was informed that his mother and brothers were outside, He continued to do the work of God. Jesus said, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put in into practice” (Luke:8:21And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it., New International Version). That was not a criticism of Mary or of His brothers. Mary was one who showed, through all of her actions, that she served God gladly and willingly.



John:19:25Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. begins to record the final events of Jesus’ life. This was the moment that Mary had known was coming—when the metaphorical sword would pierce her, as Simeon had prophesied (Luke:2:35(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.). The fact that Mary was there attests to her frequent presence at all Jesus did. She was devoted to God and growing in the comprehension of the greatness of the moment. Indeed, only a parent can feel the pain Mary felt for her son in those final hours. This too was an event for which she was not prepared. As all unfolded, it would become clear that this too was in the plan of God. Mary accepted that part of the plan just as she had accepted her role from that moment when God first reached out to her. The words of Jesus reflect care and tenderness.



All the mysterious sayings she had treasured in her memory over the years were becoming clearer. There can be little doubt that Jesus’ mother was involved in the burial of her Son, and that she was among the women who came to the tomb early that morning long ago (Luke:24:9-10[9]And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.[10]It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.). John was the disciple who was destined to live the longest, and the one to whom Jesus entrusted His mother (John:19:26-27[26]When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son![27]Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.). God looked after every facet and part of the life of His chosen and highly favored vessel, Mary. Her attitude was, “Thy will be done.” Although Mary then fades from the pages of the Bible, she will not fade from God’s favor—or the future He will give to her.



Further reading

To learn more about the life of Jesus, read our booklet, Jesus Christ: The Real Story.

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Are You Worried About the Economy?

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

Are You Worried About the Economy?


A commentary by Michael Snyder




Personal and national fears, anxiety and anger skyrocketed over the past few weeks as American politicians fell to verbal blows.





The National Debt Clock in New York City as seen on August 8, 2011. This digital billboard displays the increasing US debt.

Source: Jesse KuczynskiWhat's the source of this conflict? Whether to extend U.S. debt limits, cut spending and raise taxes. A Congressional compromise was barely reached in time, but many still fear that we're slipping back into global recession. The numbers of joblessness and debt are so large that they disorient our senses. How does this make you feel? Is the tottering economy keeping you up at night? Millions are having their share of sleepless times, but you don't need to join them.



Experts agree that the past decade of mind-numbing bust and boom, greed and fiscal gluttony has left consumers and investors alike with all-time record low levels of trust. Until trust levels rise and confidence begins to return, the threat of a double-dip recession remains. Given this, what are we supposed to do? Perhaps surprisingly, we all have our roles—even you right now can play a surprisingly positive part.



What can you do? Turn to God

For thousands of years, the answer to this question has lain before us. Even though the numbers are all-but-unimaginable, large-scale crisis of political and financial origin are scarcely new. Humans from every walk of life have faced deep crises before, and they will face them again.



Any crisis or challenge—even ones as global as we see today—generally includes some element of consequence. Many challenges or crises are largely self-inflicted. Clearly much of the global crisis that engulfed the planet over the past few years was the direct result of unchecked greed. Too many people tried to get rich at the expense of others, and the system failed.



The Bible, which chronicles human behavior according to the standards of a living God, shows time and time again that God allows trials to befall us to get our attention. If viewed properly, trials teach us wisdom and fashion within us precious godly character. They teach us to seek God, depend on Him for strength and answers, change to match His ways, and to be grateful for the many blessings that we receive. When we do this, we don't have to worry about the economy, whether local or global.



The apostle Paul—a man of God who had his own share of trials and challenges—urges us to turn our lives completely over to God, to offer ourselves totally and humbly as "living sacrifices" (Romans:12:1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service., New International Version). In doing so, we can find out what God's divine will is for this planet and for ourselves (verse 2).



And once we find out what God's will is for us, if we change and align ourselves with that powerful and loving will, we have nothing to fear. The Bible teaches and experience confirms that people who are yielded fully to God's will and have set themselves in motion to do it—these people experience a level of emotional and mental serenity that defies description. This active and living commitment produces a literal peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).



Trust in God is the antidote for worry

For those worried about the economy, worried about their jobs or worried about what they may wear or eat, Jesus offered specific advice. As He told his followers—which includes us today—"Do not worry about your life" (Luke:12:22And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.). He magnified this by reminding us of our limited power: "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" (verses 25-26, emphasis added). Adding an hour of our individual lives is a big thing for humans. In fact, it's impossible! But for an all-powerful God, it's a "very little thing."



The point? If we're aligned with God's will and seeking to do it, God will take care of us. Concerning the physical things of this life, Jesus tells us that God the Father "knows that you need them" (verse 30). If our priorities are straight, then we have nothing to fear. As Jesus concluded in this passage: "But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well" (verse 31).



Are you still worried about the economy? Lots of people are. But if we are seeking the means to be of service, of learning of and then furthering God's will, we have unbreakable spiritual promises to rely on. You don't have to worry about the economy. As Paul instructs us today, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6, NIV).



If we do this properly, even in the midst of global financial uncertainty and turmoil, we have this mighty promise: "My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). So stop worrying and start yielding to a God who loves you and cares for you!



Want to know more about how to seek and learn what God's will is for you? Request or download the free booklets, What is Your Destiny? and Transforming Your Life: The Process of Conversion. Both are free to you without obligation, and the return on your investment of time will surprise you.

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What Will Your Response Be?

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

What Will Your Response Be?


A blog post by Aaron Booth




Source: Photos.com"If you repent, I will restore you…" (Jeremiah:15:19Therefore thus saith the LORD, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth: let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them.).



There is no doubt that the United States is experiencing a time of anguish. So much of the news reflects on economic woes and national troubles that seem to have no end or solutions. No matter what is decided in our nation's capital - there seems to be no good answer to the problem our nation is facing.



Our nation's leaders are searching for answers. The governor of Texas, Rick Perry, is calling for a day of prayer and fasting on Saturday, August 6, 2011. A big event called the "The Response" is being held in Houston to encourage people to ask God to intervene in our country's struggles. But will this help our nation in crisis?



Personally, you might be facing troubles of your own. Your finances might be stressed. Your health might be failing. Your marriage might be on the line of divorce. The thoughts overwhelm you as you wrestle in not knowing a solution to the personal difficulties you face.



You, America and the entire world needs a restoration. This is not a solution that comes from us but from our loving and merciful Father. The prophet Joel gave a strong warning message to ancient Israel (the same message can apply to us today) to "rend your heart" and "return to the Lord with your heart…that He may turn and have pity" and prevent further "calamities". (I would encourage you to read the whole book of Joel for the entire story.)



The only solution for the woes, problems, difficulties, turmoil (you choose the word) for the United States and you personally - is to humble yourself before God in fasting and prayer - and seek His forgiveness. This is called repentance - and it’s a start in turning your life around and making the relationship with God a number one priority. Can a nation change its ways? Yes. Read in the Bible how God spared Nineveh's destruction because the people turned from their evil ways (Jonah 3).



Don't wait for solutions to come from your government, leaders, friends, a religious revival - whoever. Start with the solution yourself. Follow the example of the apostle Paul when he wrote, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret…"(2 Corinthians:7:10For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.)



What will your response be?



If you are just starting to learn about prayer, fasting, humility and repentance - please read the related resources below or featured Bible Study aid booklets.







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U.S. Debt Dilemma - How Will It End?

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

U.S. Debt Dilemma - How Will It End?


A commentary by Larry Walker

Posted August 4, 2011





As a worried world watches, an all-out partisan political battle rages regarding the debt dilemma that threatens financial disaster for this nation and could send shock waves throughout the world. Because financial markets are all affected by the economic situations of other nations in the current global marketplace, other nations face major repercussions if the federal debt crisis is not successfully resolved.





Source: Photos.comAlthough economics in this complex world may seem very complicated and beyond the average citizen's ability to understand, the causes of the current financial problems faced by the United States are actually quite simple. In fact the same basic financial principles that apply in the lives of average citizens also apply to federal and state governments. In order to remain financially solvent, it is necessary to take in more money than is spent. As the catchy one-liner suggests, "Unless your income exceeds your outgo, your upkeep will be your downfall."



This fundamental economic principle is true for any and all institutions, large and small. Of course the federal government can get by longer than individuals by borrowing more money, printing more currency or issuing treasury bonds. But eventually the imbalance will take its toll.



Hard choices facing congress

The choices faced by Congress are limited and problematic. In order to pay its bills, the federal government needs congressional approval to increase the national debt limit. However, that is like blowing up a balloon that is already dangerously close to bursting.



The alternative would result in default—inability to pay some of its bills—that would lower the nation's credit rating. So the partisan battle rages over the debt limit increase and which benefits to cut, as well as whether or how much to increase taxes in order to move toward a balanced budget. The increased debt limit, while temporarily forestalling disaster, is only like putting a small bandage on a gaping wound.



Since elected officials are at the mercy of voters, their political survival depends on pleasing their constituents. So politicians typically dangle lofty promises of reduced taxes and increased benefits in their quest to win voter support during election campaigns. In simple terms that means reducing government income and increasing expenditures—the very opposite of what is needed to balance the budget and reduce the federal debt.



Human nature—the root of the problem

But raising taxes and cutting benefits collides head-on with the innate desire of citizens to get more and give less. Some may voice support for the concept of balancing the budget and reducing the federal debt, but only so long as the cuts are made in budget areas that don't affect their lifestyle.



I have never forgotten a folksy nugget of truth that I learned from a college economics professor many years ago: "God helps those who help themselves, so take plenty." The simple play on words lends a touch of humor to an otherwise serious and sobering reality that forms the basis of most of mankind's problems—what might be simply expressed as "the way of get" that characterizes human nature.



So the actions that President Obama and Congress have decided on are at best stop-gap measures, and the nation's economic woes will continue so long as human nature remains unabated.



God's plan for economic success and prosperity

Thankfully, God has a plan for international economic recovery that is outlined in the pages of your Bible. The gospel of the Kingdom of God speaks of the return of Jesus Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords to usher in 1,000 years of peace and prosperity. That plan includes a provision to change human nature from the way of get to the way of giving and sharing.



More information available to you

To learn more about that plan and what it can mean for you, be sure to request or download our free booklet, The Gospel of the Kingdom. I also encourage you to register now for our free Kingdom of God Bible Seminar on this vital topic, coming soon to a city near you.



We also offer practical information and help for your personal finances at no cost in our booklet, Managing Your Finances.

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The Good Shepherd of Prophecy

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

The Good Shepherd of Prophecy


article by Robin Webber





Recently, I had one of those sleepless nights in which I was wide awake, staring into darkness, with seemingly tons of thought pressing on me.







Source: Photos.comMy mind was whirling on overdrive with all gears greased with worry. I’m sure we’ve all shared that common pillow of despair. Sometimes when people reach this point of sleepless frustration, they commence with the well-known exercise of “counting sheep,” imagining one after another bounding over the pasture fence. But there’s a better way to peaceful slumber.



Long ago, I learned something in the still of the night. I stopped counting sheep and focused on the Shepherd! It was that simple and yet that profound. I began to simply repeat the 23rd Psalm with its opening line that centered my thoughts: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want”—that is, “not lack.” What a difference! Everything else melted into insignificance.



Stay focused on Him

Just like a restless night’s sleep, this wayward age of man with its 24-hour news cycle of despair can disturb our spiritual life’s rhythms and “do a number on us” if we don’t keep “looking unto Jesus. . . the great Shepherd of the sheep” (Hebrews:12:2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.; 13:20), also called “the Chief Shepherd” (1 Peter:5:4And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.). Make no mistake about it. Where and on whom you focus makes all the difference when it comes to meaningful outcomes.



And we might as well get a head start before matters heat up even more. The book of Daniel and Jesus Christ, the ultimate foreteller of future events, both prophesied a time of coming worldwide trouble that will be the worst ever—imperiling all life on earth (Daniel:12:1And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.; Matthew:24:21-22[21]For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.[22]And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.). Now reading such prophecy without proper perspective from the whole of God’s Word could keep you wide awake for multiple nights on end. Again, right focus is essential.



Let’s be honest and recognize that, as students of the Scriptures, while peering into prophecy we can become sidetracked with numerous items that seem to be sure-cure fixes to calm our hearts. Sadly, some sincere folks spend countless hours diligently going over and over (just like counting sheep) the study of some obscure biblical personality, place name or time sequence to somehow assure themselves that they can rest at night—because they know something no one else is privy to except them and, in their mind, God.



One problem though: God sees matters differently! Some things just can’t be known at a given time—being reserved to God alone (compare Acts:1:6-7[6]When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?[7]And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.). Moreover, Jesus criticized those who focused on smaller issues while ignoring “weightier” or more important spiritual matters (Matthew:23:23Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.; Luke:11:42But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.). The apostle Paul warned Christians regarding such issues as “endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith” (1 Timothy:1:4Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.).



To be frank: Those who are always pursuing the arcane and unknowable will always remain spiritually exhausted and exhausting to others. They have not settled for the true peace that comes by centering on the Chief Shepherd, the Good Shepherd of prophecy, Jesus Christ—but, rather, have settled for a substitute gospel of esoteric biblical conjecture.



Christ in the midst

As students of the gospel, our proper prophetic focus needs to center where the Bible clearly and loudly focuses, directing our attention to the Shepherd in whom we shall not be in want. Have you ever considered how the book of Revelation opens with this centering narrative? “. . . And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man” (1:12-13). These lampstands represent “the seven churches” (verse 20), seven signifying completeness and thus the totality of God’s Church. And in the imagery here we discover Jesus Christ in the midst of His Church down through the ages. A central and centering figure, He dominates the prophetic landscape. Christ is figuratively revealed as no stranger to His flock and is not distanced from His followers even when it might seem darkest in our lives.



The recorder of this revelation, the apostle John, in another of his writings presents this self-disclosing statement of Jesus: “I am the good shepherd; and I know my sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep” (John:10:14-15[14]I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.[15]As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.). This proclamation introduces the sacrificial key that unlocks the prophetic realm of Revelation, as the Good Shepherd is extolled in the heavenly realm with these words: “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God” (5:9, English Standard Version). His sufficiency is without question, and His provision for those He loves is met with one answer: “I died for you.”



What is fascinating with the fullness of scriptural revelation is that Jesus Christ is simultaneously the “Good Shepherd” and the “Lamb” of God (mentioned 27 times in Revelation). He understands both the role of guide and follower. In Him, they become one. He is indeed a Shepherd in whom we shall not want or lack.



The beloved 23rd Psalm is meant for more than word filler in funeral folders. It’s offered as a guide to our day-by-day walk into the future—in both the succeeding chapters of our personal lives and the unfolding tapestry of prophecy. Written by King David, who had worked as a shepherd in his youth, the psalm presents life as a follower of the ultimate Shepherd.



As we center on the Good Shepherd in whom we “shall not want” (verse 1), we are immediately reminded that He directs and enables us “to lie down in green pastures” (verse 2). Thus, our faith in Him is immediately challenged by whether we will obey His direction. With the Shepherd’s help, we respond by faith-filled action to “lie down” where He sets us to feed and grow spiritually. I’ll be the first to admit that “spiritual green pasture” doesn’t always match our human color charts. Our circumstances don’t always look so lush. But the Shepherd knows what is best for us.



Psalm 23 then mentions that He leads us “beside the still waters” (still verse 2). Drinking in of the “waters” of God’s Spirit and Word quenches our spiritual thirst and clears up our thinking (see John:7:37-39[37]In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.[38]He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.[39](But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.); Ephesians:5:26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,). Taking in of God’s mind and what is written in Scripture gives us continuing assurance, beyond personal anxiety or global trepidations, that God’s purpose, plan, promises and provisions are true and right on schedule—His schedule!



Like scattered sheep, the flock of God can become spiritually disoriented by fear of predators, tension with other sheep, or hunger. God’s Word says: Trust where I place you and enjoy the still waters. It is only then that you can “be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm:46:10Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.).



Restoration: now and ever

The next famous phrase in Psalm 23 describes how the Good Shepherd “restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (verse 3). Sheep are creatures of habit, and if not properly led they will turn good ground into ruts and turn pastures into deserts by overstaying their welcome—and they will pollute the ground beneath them with their own waste. The most important function of a shepherd is to keep the flock on the move!



Sometimes as sheep we forget this. We don’t like the new path, or we stare at the sheep rather than focusing on the Shepherd and bolt. It’s here we’re reminded that the spiritual walk is not a quick escalator ride to salvation, but at times has detours of our own making. Yet we have a faithful Shepherd who restores us on course and puts us back on the path of His choosing. Restoration is not marginal to the Christian experience but central. What Christ told Peter just before he was to veer from the right path for a while, confident in “when you have returned to Me” (Luke:22:32But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.), should echo down to us today.



Jesus was always blatantly honest, then as now, as to where the path might lead. He never said the journey would be easy, but He did promise it would be worth it. Acts:14:22Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. echoes, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” Psalm 23 bluntly describes periods of our own walk with God as well as the forward motion of the Church down through the ages: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over” (verses 4-5).



It is noteworthy that Jesus never said that “evil” would not be visited upon His followers or the Church as a whole. But as the psalm encourages, we need not fear it. What Jesus did say is: “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades [the grave] shall not prevail against it” (Matthew:16:18And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.). Take a careful look at this verse! The ultimate fulfillment of prophecy is not a church on the run, but the doors of Hades, death itself, being broken down and surrendering its grip on us.



The living Christ, at the right hand of the Father on high, shepherds and rallies His elect, proclaiming: “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death” (Revelation:1:17-18). The Good Shepherd of prophecy has traversed both life and death and emerged triumphant!



And yet, despite knowing this, the knees of our heart can get a little wobbly along the way. Consider, please: When His precious flock is on the move down the path of history, it is here that the Great Shepherd is at His most intense and intimate best in guiding the flock over challenging terrain to the good pasture He has already gone ahead to prepare.



It is here in “the valley of the shadow of death” that the cry of the sheep down through the ages can be heard echoing through the canyons of time: “How long, O Lord. . . ?” (Revelation:6:10). It is here that the flock must know that the Shepherd it follows never sleeps (Psalm:121:4Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.). He is dedicated to preserving all who would follow Him into the abyss of darkness. Of His sheep who hear His voice, He declares: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. . . And no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand” (John:10:27-29[27]My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:[28]And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.[29]My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.).



“I am with you always”

Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd of prophecy, is guiding His flock through the winding twists of history and prophecy to one ultimate destination—the great culmination at “the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power” (1 Corinthians:15:24Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.). This unique moment in time, as time itself passes away and melts into eternity, is the sublime experience we are being led forward to. It will fulfill the grand crescendo of the 23rd Psalm’s final words: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (verse 6).



We still have some paths to walk down and valleys to pass through in the seasons of our personal lives, along with the unfolding chapters of prophecy. I don’t know how long the journey is, but I know what’s been promised if we stay on the trail and stay focused on the Good Shepherd of prophecy. As we do, let’s remember that the will of God will never lead you to where the grace of God cannot keep you. The encouraging directive of, “This is the way, walk in it” (Isaiah:30:21And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.) is refortified in the sureness of the Chief Shepherd’s promises. “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” He said (John:14:6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.). “And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew:28:20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.).



The remedy for those sleepless nights is right here. “For so He gives His beloved sleep” (Psalm:127:2It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.). Sleep tight!

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