Trinity Isn't Just Rivers in Texas

 

Yesterday I focused a bit on our Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You'll find all three titles for specific interactions in the Bible. You'll also find theological disagreements with some saying "Trinity means you worship three different God." Or, "These three are separate but equal," which doesn't complete the story. Frankly, I do not wish to get into a theological discussion, but to ignore the subject leaves it beyond discussion - which is never good when discussing what we believe. From my personal belief statement:

… there is one God, eternally extant in three biblical definitions:  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is One, the 'echad', of Deuteronomy 6:4, the Father of Matthew 6:9, the promised sacrifice of Genesis 22:8, the Word of John 1:1, the Beginning and the End of Revelation 1:8.

Beyond that, I will not argue, but I will send you to scripture. Let's look first at Jesus' baptism, where all three are mentioned:

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Matthew 3:13-17)

And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Mark 1:9-11)

Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. (Luke 3:21-22)

John doesn't cover Jesus baptism, but his first few verses - plus the book of Revelation - pretty well covers the deity part:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:1-5)

Now, if anyone is wondering which "God" is under discussion, never doubt that it is Judaism that brought Jesus to the synagogues on the Sabbath (that's the seventh day of the week, Saturday in English) and read from the books of prophecy:

And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son? And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. (Luke 4:16-24)

He got explicit with His disciples about what was prophesied - they did not understand:

Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again. And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken. (Luke 18:31-34)

If you wonder what did happen to some of the prophets, read Jeremiah and Ezekiel, or some of those considered minor prophets. Jesus knew exactly what happened to them:

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. (Matthew 23:37-38)

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. (Luke 13:34-35)

Once again, I will say that I worship God, whom I believe has appeared to mankind three different ways: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I do not need any statue of any one of those to keep my understanding and memory alive. Jesus told the woman at the well how were would worship. I have no problem accepting that:

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:21-24)

Come, read the Bible and worship with me.

Why I Can't Ignore You

Muslims believe Jesus was a great prophet. Thomas Jefferson believed Jesus was a great philosopher. Many people believe Jesus was a good man, but just as the two previous examples, they do not believe He was God. Even people who believe in the biblical view of an all powerful deity who created the universe have a problem believing a man can be God. 

Understanding the aspects of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit can be a hang up point for a new Christian, but there are verses to use that help:

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1:1-3)

I and my Father are one. (John 10:30)

Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:8-9)

There is no doubt with scripture that the disciples heard Jesus say He and the Father were the same. He and the Father were one. Then the rest of the letters went out from Matthew, Mark, Luke, Paul, Peter, and James - and virtually confirmed they believed exactly the same. Each of those letters a testament to their belief in Jesus Christ, human Son of God, lived here on earth with them.

We must see Jesus as a man, as human as we are. He also has a Spirit - I think that goes without saying. He definitely had a human body that functioned and felt as ours did. He was not conceived as we were, but He gestated and was born as we were. 

He was raised by law abiding and religious parents - arrested to by their compliance with rules for census taxation and visits to the temple. He could tell when someone touched Him with faith:

And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? (Mark 5:30)

And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all. (Luke 6:19)

And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. (Luke 8:45-46)

I won't go into the tortuous humiliation He suffered being tried, beaten and crucified, but remember how painful death by crucifixion is known to be - or look it up. There's a lot of information.

Since I believe the Bible was inspired by God, that it was written to show God to mankind, it would be impossible for me to take it apart and determine what was true and what wasn't. Which is exactly what Thomas Jefferson did - cut the New Testament into pieces to be glued back without any of the miracles the writers said Jesus did. You see, Jefferson could not destroy the historical Jesus. Nor could his mind accept a miracle. Nor could God be in the body of a man.

He wasn't and isn't alone. Many do not believe. However, since I do - I cannot ignore those who do not. To deny Jesus is to activate John 3:18:

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. (John 3:18-19)

I know what happens when those who believe do not speak out to those who do not:

And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. (Luke 19:40)

When To Stop Evangelizing

"Politics" in public domain

 

Sometimes differences need to be affirmed and discussions ceased. Tempers can flare on both sides, and neither person will adapt what they think, but will continue arguing until anger erupts. That does good for no one. There comes a time in any heated discussion to draw lines, explain the impasse reached, and decide not to destroy a relationship.

While the graphic is labelled "POLITICS," the discussions that become heated can be a wide variety of subjects, but religion is right up there with politics. Let me take a few paragraphs to examine my view.

When Jesus sent His twelve disciples:

These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 10:5-7)

He sent them to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel," no where else. He mentioned that in other places:

But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. (Matthew 15:24)

The woman asking for help for her daughter was being a nuisance, the disciples told Him. Verse 24 is how He answered. That wasn't the last of her insistence, though:

Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. (Matthew 15:25-26)

She asked Him directly, and His answer was - frankly - insulting. She did not rise to the insult, but gave Him facts:

And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour. (Matthew 15:27-28)

Was Jesus insulting the non-Jew, standing by His calling, or giving us an example of persisting in what we know is right? Since I do not believe Jesus made a habit of insulting, I believe this was both an example that He was there to reach the children of Israel first. It was their job to share God with the world. He also taught us to continue asking Him for assistance, and He showed what miracles can be done.

Now - how did I reach the title "When To Stop Evangelizing" from this particular encounter? It is a reach - but my mind is a roundhouse of tracks and I did cross a couple, having testified of my beliefs and having people refuse them. 

One was a former Bible College attendee who became an atheist because his chosen lifestyle did not fit into Christianity. I found him to be a kind, considerate, family-oriented, thoughtful individual who had made a serious profession of faith - and followed it with training - but left that behind. I enjoyed many of the artistic interests he did - music and visual arts. And, I witnessed to him - to no avail. After many years he remains a friend, uninterested in God. He reads my blog every once in a while, and he will recognize himself. 

He will not be surprised that I continue to pray for him. I've told him enough times over the years that he is in my prayers - but we no longer discuss our differing opinions. We know they are different. He firmly stated that, just as I did, but there is no temper, anger, nor reason to regret the friendship.

From my view, I realize the decision is his. Not mine to make. There is nothing I can say different. I will not agree with his viewpoint, but I value his friendship. And, he knows I pray for him, but he does not cut off my friendship, either. He does not request I change my beliefs, either.

There are a few people in our extended family with similar attitudes. One says, "I believe in a different god," but makes no requirements we believe in an unexplainable deity, and we remain family - again, knowing I pray for God to send someone who can reach their hearts.

In reality, although we support missions and missionaries, we cannot change anyone's mind about their decision regarding a relationship with God. But - we pray for them. So many verses, but here's a couple:

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18)

Confess 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. (James 5:16)

Answering Questions

 

Recently hearing David Wood answer a Muslim's question about Bible accuracy, I was reminded of how Charlie Kirk would take questions for those attending his visits to universities. Each of these men spoke from memory with the ability to quote scripture and address not only the specific question, but often put it in context with surrounding scripture to explain how the incorrect interpretation was created. That, in my mind is a talent, a gift. Well done, while giving God the glory, it is a gift that can reach the unsaved. Not all of us have that gift.

Then again, not all of us are called to speak out publicly. I had to do that a few times, and I was not gifted with the ability to do it without a bunch of quaking in my shoes, and making a few mistakes. One happened in Taiwan. I was leading a User Acceptance Test. There were a series of specific items to be tested, but the end users were also able to do what they considered every day work, in case our tests did not touch theier concerns.

The testing was to begin on a Monday morning. The manager who introduced me to the class did so both in English and Chinese, then he was called away for a moment. Rather than ignore the class, I made a few comments about what we would be doing in the coming week as we worked together on testing the software prior to acceptance by the company. They were consistent in eye contact and attention, as I began ro run out of nonspecific words. I was about to talk about the firsts test when the manager returned, smiled so kindly, and explained he was the only one in the room who understood English.

There are times when I've wanted to speak to someone about their religious beliefs, and feel I lack the ability to do so without creating an issue. Then remind myself:

But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. (Matthew 10:19-20)

In context, Jesus is explaining to the disciples that they will be taken by authorities because they speak truth, and not to worry. Their situations were a lot different that what mine are, yet God provides other verses as a confirmation we've read this one as the Spirit is with us when we speak of Him:

And it shall turn to you for a testimony. Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. (Luke 21:13-15)

Luke's example is the same as Matthew's, read in context. In Luke 12, though Jesus began speaking with His disciples, there were multitudes around Him, and His words went beyond confrontation:

Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God. And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say. (Luke 12:8-12)

Paul tells us how difficult it is for a person to believe:

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! (Romans 10:14-15)

Not all Christians are called to be preachers, but every single Christian is called to confess before men our belief in Jesus. We have opportunities to do that. It woiuld have been inappropriate for me to do that before my Chinese test class, but it was very appropriate to mention it as one of the managers and I went to lunch and I took a moment for prayer before my meal. Our assistant pastor stopped to help a motorist, mentioned his job and his calling - and we now have another family in our congregation and a marvelous tenor in the choir!

One student asked my grand-daughter to join her on the bus that picked up children for church. Now four generations have been members there. All because one person asked a question - and another gave an answer. As Peter put it:

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: (1 Peter 3:15)

Boundaries

 

This screen capture from Google Maps shows a number of boundary examples. Saginaw and Blue Mound are cities, as is Pelican Bay and Haslet. They - as does every other city - have boundaries that define where their city begins and ends. The Eagle Mountain Lake has boundaries that keep the water from flowing downstream - a dam, and higher ground keep the water in specific locations - except for drought, which changes where water is found. There are parks, shown in green, and specific roads. The interstate has controlled access, so does US 287, to a lesser extent.

All these are defined in different ways, but you'll have to admit the ground you are on has boundaries. The USA had a porous boundary in its southern border which caused a split across the country, as well as millions of people who no longer had a country they could rely upon.

Marriage has boundaries. In fact, marriage was created with rules that govern it. According to those who believe the Bible to be true, Jesus defined what the original marriage was to be in it's example for all of mankind:

The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. (Matthew 19:3-8)

There are many helps online that are places for women who believe marriage is for a lifetime - but are married to men who take advantage of that. In a few cases, that dynamic is reversed and the woman takes advantage, but the major remains women who are given boundaries by their husbands, and he has none. Dr. Henry Cloud is one who provided assistance to a couple of women I knew in that situation. Boundaries were necessary.

In one, the husband found an answer in the Bible and made it known to all he met. The other discarded the Bible and created his own religion that allows him to do anything he desires. The wife in the first situation continued her marriage and both grew in wisdom and in favor. The second situation ended in divorce. The woman went on to a second marriage, while the man shipwrecked his life to such an extent that more than one trip to jail ensued due to his actions.

The big difference between these two examples is setting and accepting boundaries in life. Basically, that is all our christianity calls for - setting and accepting boundaries.

Jesus mentioned two in Matthew:

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matthew 22:37-40)

Amazing, isn't it, that all the law, all the prophets, all of the Bible comes down to two laws. Our decisions can be determined within God's plans if we first consider the effect on Him, then the effect on people. We should remember that we are someone else's example. Whatever we do, we do it in front of someone we know, or strangers. Seldom do we act totally on our own. With our actions, we apply our own boundaries - or boundaries we pick up from somewhere. First place we pick up boundaries are from our families.

Being born into a family without boundaries is considered a detriment to our development. It does happen. That will impact education first, then it will affect the rest of our lives. People born into overly scheduled lives have different problems, but both extremes will reach a turning point in life, a place or time where a choice is made, a fork in the road.

I'm asking that you become aware of that choice. Did you make a choice to live your life for good? Did that choice include - or decline - God? Frankly, that isn't a one-time-no-out choice. People have more than one opportunity to seek God's boundaries in life. They make life much better:

\Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)

How Many Generations

 

That is a simple four-generation family pedigree chart. Put your name in that first lonely rectangle, and your parents' in the next two - father on the top, mother on the bottom rectangle. Repeat for your grandparents, then repeat for your great-grandparents. My oldest great-grand was born in 1830. It is possible I will be alive two hundred years after his birth. Sort of puts history into perspective. By research, I have ancestral information back into the 1500's. No big deal, my husband's goes back another 100 years. Royalty tracks theirs back even further.

Much more important is what is passed down. From my parents, I received religious education. My Dad received similar from his mother, but not his father. My Mom's parents were like mine - information from both parents. Not all families pass along religious information. Some do it in such a way that if a child changes their religious affiliation, they are cut off from their family.

Our religious beliefs are not tied to genetics. We do not inherit them the same way we inherit our hair color, skin color, specific diseases, or tendencies for autoimmune diseases. Our children did inherit genes that set those - including the bad as well as the good - but their religious beliefs were chosen for themselves, just as yours are. 

Generations came to mind today during our morning worship service. The pedigree chart piqued my interest back in the 1980's when I got a computer and a program to track family information. It has been a hobby since then, and a pleasure to learn how the gospel message came down through generations - just as the Lord required:

Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons; (Deuteronomy 4:9)

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. (Deuteronomy 6:7)

One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. (Psalms 145:4)

That's only a sample, but Psalm 78 get's very specific and Psalm 71 tells us about ages:

For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: (Psalms 78:5-7)

O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works. Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come. (Psalms 71:17-18)

Remember my mentioning above about my paternal grandfather not passing along religious beliefs? I remember him never going to church. Churches are very good at keeping records, some denominations have them for centuries, especially baptisms and marriages. I found his marriage information, but no baptism record. Looking at the time frame/place for his children, I found his brother's wife a church member, but neither one of them showed a church membership at any time in places I knew they lived.

For me, a believing Christian, there is a conclusion that can be reached that he never came to the decision making time in his life. I do not want to leave that question in the minds of my children, my grandchildren, my great-grandchildren - or the descendant that comes along two hundred years from now and wonders about me. 

Where do you stand on sharing with your family?

In His Word

 

"Text Appearing After Image:

Reverse FIGURE XI.—THE SEVENTH TABLET OF CREATION British Museum, 

THE COSMOLOGIES "131 The father shall repeat them and teach them to his son;"

There are innumerable stories of creation originating around our world. The commonality is that a supreme deity was capable of creating everything in sight - even though the writers of the stories could not accurately describe what was being created. Science has pretty much added to our knowledge of what is - or is not - what those writers described. 

The vast majority wrote of a tribal (even generational) hierachy - a strong deity, usually surrounded by lesser occupants of a place never seen by humans, yet described in human terms. Anthropomorphizing - that's the word used when we use human terminology to explain the actions of non-human - such as our pets, objects around us, and definitely when describing deities.

I believe some of that came through writers of the Bible when they reached the points where they did not have the vocabulary to describe what was seen. Every language has limitations and limitations are different in every language. This is one reason I enjoy digital resources when it comes to Bible study.

Studying the writings about the Jewish deity is said to have begun with Moses and his writing the first five books of the Bible. Everyone knows he was not even a visitor to the Garden of Eden, but we also know he did meet with God and was given specific instructions as to what was to be written down. Jews and Christians believe all scripture is inspired by God. Jews were to teach each succeeding generations all that God taught. Evenually, that was written down, then copied again and again. Because of combined scientific and theological studies say so, we can accurately state that the same message has come down for no less than four thousand years. That's just written copies. I firmly believe the stories hold true since the creation of mankind.

God also inspired Paul to write to Timothy why we have scripture:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16)

The Bereans believed this, too:

And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few. (Acts 17:10-12)

While a number of "Christian" church leaders do not accept the Bible as God's word, I personally do. So did my pastors for the last seventy-five years. I was ten when we moved to Oklahoma a began attending Immanuel Baptist Church. I remain saddened that there is no longer a church there by that name. While the congregation went through the normal downsizing, moving away, dying, the Bible remains, and is taught much as I learned it, in other buildings, other congregations. While every denomination, and every unaffiliated congregation, may have thrological differences, there are basics that remain:

God created the heavens and the earth.

God selected Abraham's descendants to spread the word throughout the world.

God provided the birth of Jesus.

God supported the ministry of Jesus.

Jesus was the good news God gave man, that he could spend eternity with God.

Jesus died on a cross because He equated Himself to God

Jesus resurrected after three days, continuing His ministry.

Jesus returned to heaven, leaving mankind the Holy Spirit

Followers of Jesus are Called Christian (first in Antioch) because Jesus was called Christ.

That is a lot of material to take in all at once. Is there any doubt in your mind that new Christians are feeling very much as the Queen of Sheba when she visited King Solomon:

And she said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy wisdom. Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard. (1 Kings 10:6-7)

Let me assure you - there are many things I do not know about the Bible. I read it daily, with prayers for direction (and a yearning for understanding), and I fully agree with Sheba. The half has not been told.

But - as with the Bereans, I know that receiving "the word with all readiness of mind" and searching "the scriptures daily, whether those things were so," clarity is available. Too often, the mind is not ready and the heart is hardened.

Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him. Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. (John 12:39-43)

God gave us words, neatly arranged in a book that wasn't available for people to read - for centuries. It was necessary for it to be shared amongst one another, father to son, for centuries. And, it was. God also gave us His Word. John was inspired to write, and my heart responds to:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:1-5)

Seek the Word of God in the word of God. Read with all readiness of mind to learn, searching the scripture to see if what I wrote here is not found in the Bible. Prove me wrong. I don't mind your trying. If you are seeking God, I know He can be found.

I've Tried To Be Good

 

It's a question I remain hesitant to ask: "Are you saved?" I know people who don't mind asking at all. One lady at our church told of waiting quite a while before asking her own grandmother, and was pleasantly surprised that the answer not only was "Yes, I am," but started a conversation which gave depth to that answer and solace to her granddaughter.

Often the answer is "I've tried to live a good life," which doesn't address the question. There are millions of people who work at living a "good" life as opposed to a "bad" life, but the real question comes down to a question of salvation. I've focused on what the Bible says in previous blogs, but there are many different churches that have added specific actions that are required for salvation that are not biblically factual.

The first one that comes to my mind is baptism. 

Our church does require baptism for membership, but does not include it as part of salvation requirements. For us, it shows the commitment on the part of the person asking for membership. They are willing to follow Jesus example. Before beginning His ministry, He was baptized by John the Baptist. The importance of that action shows in the fact it is contained in all four gospels: Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22, and John 1:32-34.

Not every incident is in all four gospels. Often something is is two, perhaps three, but I would suggest that very important information is carried in all four gospels. Do not infer that a singlet is unimportant - the fact it is in the Bible at all carries meaning that it was intended to be there. One reason for reading a variety of translations is to see what was omitted - or added. Since few readers of Old Testament Hebrew or New Testament Greek are around to check what we know to be facts, we must depend on translation. When the job is well done - such as the centuries of hand copying of Isaiah down to the Dead Sea Scrolls, we can be certain that we do have the most accurate accounting of scripture today.

So, since baptism is important as an example of following Jesus' example, it is expected as the first step of joining a number of different denominations. That does not mean it is a part of salvation, but our church has made it a requirement for membership. Why? Because it shows the new member believes, as we do, that baptism is an important step. Plus, that same new member shows understanding that it is not essential to salvation. If they believe it is, they really should find a church that accepts that belief.

Membership listing in our church rolls does not mean salvation, and we believe that holds true for any church roll. It is not necessary to be a member of a church to be saved. However, once accepting Jesus Christ as Savior, a new Christian should find a congregation where members actively respond to Jesus' teachings and are eager to help a new believer learn more - about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and how to keep the important commandments of Matthew 22:35-40. Before consideration of any other part of learning, these verses contain the importance of all the Jewish Law and the prophets.

How can we know if we are good enough to be saved? We aren't. We are saved because we aren't good enough to match what God requires. If we were, Jesus did not have to die on the cross. But that was decided, by God before creation:

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (1 Peter 1:17-23)

I could have just used the bolded part - but the context tells us that we can never be "good enough" on our own to pass through God's righteous judgment. He knew that and set a plan in motion that includes eternity past, our present, and eternal future.  John 3:16-18 is the most complete telling of what it takes - although the first part of John 3 and multiple other verses confirm (and none deny) what it takes to know ourselves that we are saved from eternal separation from God:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:16-18)

John wrote five of the books in the New Testament. He never changed his concept:

He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. (1 John 5:10-13)

Don 't "try to be good" enough to pass through this world without knowing Jesus Christ and His Father. Once you've heard the stories, talked with people who have made the commitment, read what His followers left for us to know - rejection is just as plainly described as salvation. It is a choice. We all make it one way or another. I'm hoping to spend eternity speaking with people I know now. Some have not chosen wisely.

Oh, yes - we believe when you do trust Jesus, that's salvation. Then you depend on Him to walk with you through the coming trials and tribulation that naturally come to life. He will do that for people who believe He is able to keep us:

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. (2 Timothy 1:12)

If you don't, be cautious about saying you do. You may need more information to grow your faith:

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

We aren't perfect. We goof up, we sin. That does not remove our salvation provided by God. We repent, we apologize, we ask forgiveness - of those we've injured, and from the Savior who never leaves us alone.

"Just Show Up"

 

Jesus Knocking at the Door - Stjohn-stroudsburg

Every once in a while I run across someone who had a message that resonates with me. It's like getting a phone call or a doorbell rings and I not only pay attention, but find there's a reason I need to know this exists. One such phrase was "Just Show Up.' Then, when reading "Read a free chapter of my latest book "Just Show Up."👇on his X page, I found:

One is that we’re not called to change the world. God doesn’t require us to do something big and dramatic to fulfill His call on our lives. My younger self would be disappointed to hear that. But now it’s a relief. Saving the world sounds exhausting and I just don’t have the energy these days. Instead, God calls us to small acts of ordinary faithfulness. This kind of success doesn’t come in spite of life’s responsibilities and challenges, but in the midst of them. Even because of them. It might not change the world, but it does change us and the people around us.

May we take a few moments to give careful consideration as to what happened at Jesus birth, the thirty plus years He spent on earth, His death, burial and His never-before resurrection? Then consider what is said about His second coming. There may be a good message in here for all of us.

First of all, His birth. Shepherds watching their fields by night were the only ones mentioned in scripture to have heard the angels declaration:

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10-11)

A few rather unimportant individuals were treated to heavenly voices that we would prostrate ourselves before God to have seen - and not one bit of news was carried around the countryside about this in any records found to date.

The parents, as Mosaic Law required, presented their child at the temple with the prerequisite offering - and discovered a couple of people already had the good news!

And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (Luke 2:26-32)

One man understood - and so did one woman. Two people in the temple, which was never lacking for attendees to be there, but no one else wrote of this. The memories of a mother written by a man after the death of her Son is all we have - and I do not doubt one word of these testimonies to our Lord's holiness.

Yes - Magi from the east were aware of the occurrence and traveled to Jerusalem to greet the new, but promised before, King of the Jews. They knew where to find Him - they thought. But they were wrong and needed a bit of redirection to where a young woman had given birth to her first child.

When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. (Matthew 2:3-8)

We have more detail here, the story is longer and a bit more specific - but only Matthew writes about this part. As part of the taxation portion of government, it is reasonable that he could have heard the story - but it is just as obvious that another large segment of the royal court had information. Add the death dealing by the soldiers, and the lack of historical references, this stands by the unbelieving as almost unbelievable. Oh, but it is believable. 

Now - why did one man's article on "Just Show Up" start me down this off-track writing? Because each one of these non-important people showed up in our Savior's birth story. Herod is the only King, the only "important" person (besides Mary and Joseph, of course) who believed that something extremely important happened. Their memories became part of Jesus' story before He even opened His mouth to share God's word.

Each person in these separate birth stories of Christ simply showed up, then shared what they had learned. Basically, His entire life is based on showing up, and sharing what is learned. Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter, James, Jude - they all showed up and wrote down what I've been asking you to read. 

Actually, that's all Jesus asks us to do, isn't it? He had the power to change the entire world with one word - but He met people and spoke to them, one at a time more often than not. Why would we not consider that as following the command He gave:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching 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. (Matthew 28:19-20)

Sometimes the go means only as far as a keyboard, or even a telephone. Because there will come a day when every knee will bow to Him, and everyone will see:

And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19:11-16)

Jeremiah, Micah, and Hezekiah

Imprint of the seal (bulla) of Hezekiah, son of Ahaz, king of Judah. 
On display in the Israel Museum, Jerusalem.

(For those who came back - thanks! Finally got back on the internet and was able to complete this entry)

King Hezekiah has been a favorite of mine for

Mm ages, since I discovered God personally answered his prayer for a few more years to be added to his life. That type of healing still happens, but just about as few and far between as in biblical times. In "Ancient Near Eastern History and Culture" by William Stiebing he was described as "the best-attested figure in biblical history," due to the extensive documentation of his reign in biblical texts (both Kings and Chronicles, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Micah) and external sources (notably Assyrian inscriptions). I mention a good deal of this in Hezekiah and Dysfunctional Families 

Most people skip over 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. The huge focus on David and Solomon is over and it appears that the people completely forget why they are where they are. It's hard to just function in society much less consider you were placed there for a specific reason. According to Got Questions, Hezekiah seems constantly aware of God's acts in the past and His involvement in the events surrounding Hezekiah. According to the Chronicles of the Kings:

And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the LORD his God. (2 Chronicles 31:20)

As we know, a great number of kings did not. Hezekiah's problem seem to stem from the people of Judah, where he reigned. We pick up a lot of information along the way in 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, but much more in the prophets. King Hezekiah was the son of King Ahaz, who did not do that which was good and right. When Hezekiah became king, he had a lot of destruction ahead of him. Not only getting read of pagan altars, idols, and temples, but the bronze serpent that Moses had made in the desert [Numbers 21:9] had to be destroyed because the people had raised it to idol status. Hezekiah had to force open the Temple doors his father had nailed shut, and the priests had to be returned, Passover reinstated, so not only reforms but actual religious revival came to the throne with him. 2 Kings 18:6-7 includes: "... held fast to the Lord and did not stop following him." 

However, in 701 BC, there was a crisis with the Assyrians, who pretty much dominated the world - and the northern kingdom of Israel. Now they wanted Jerusalem. Isaiah told Hezekiah that the Assyrians would not enter Jerusalem. The true worth of a prophet is truth. We tend to forget that and believe right off the bat today whatever is given to us in social or news media. Prophets were held to a higher standard, but it often took some time to confirm what they said. This particular instance, it was literally overnight. The Assyrian army of one hundred eighty five thousand died over night. Doubt that? Check archeological records that show Assyria did not take Jerusalem.

The story that stuck in my mind more than any other was Hezekiah's prayer. Isaiah told him to get his house in order, that he would die. Remember, Isaiah had been correct about the Assyrian army. Hezekiah believed this prophecy, too. He prayed:

In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. (2 Kings 20:1-3)

Did you notice Hezekiah turned away from Isaiah. He did not need a priest nor a prophet to intercede between him and God. Hezekiah prayed unto the Lord - not to a "saint," not to a "priest," not repeated a series of specified prayers, but directly to God. God answered, through Isaiah:

And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake. (2 Kings 20:4-6)

There is much more about Hezekiah, and a problem he created for his son. But the fact he was a good King who obeyed God's commands, prayed for his own life, and received God's blessing of longer life, that is a good story to remember. However, the people he tried so hard to lead a Godly life failed him, as did his son Manasseh. Got Questions says: "... who would turn out to be the evilest king ever to reign in Judah (2 Kings 18-20; 2 Chronicles 29-32; Isaiah 36-39)"

King David, a man after God's own heart, is the only other Israeli King that has more written about him in the Bible. In fact, "Historiographically, his reign is noteworthy for the convergence of a variety of biblical sources and diverse extrabiblical evidence often bearing on the same events. Significant data concerning Hezekiah appear in the Deuteronomistic History, the Chronicler, Isaiah, Assyrian annals and reliefs, Israelite epigraphy, and, increasingly, stratigraphy." ["Hezekiah". The Anchor Bible Dictionary. 1992.]

 

That's a lot of sources that have verified times, places, people that all work together to show what was written in Kings, Chronicles, Isaiah, Micah, Jeremiah as well as Assyrian history and Israelite epigraphy match. Not necessarily with the same explanatory phrases, exact words - but sufficient to show that the people listed show in documentation from that specific period to have held the offices they said they did, and actions the Bible detailed.

Time and time again this has proven to be true - and no specific archaeological discoveries have proven one fact written down in what we consider God's word to have been a lie. Frankly, I do not find anything that convinces me that God does not exist, that God does not relate to mankind, nor have I any reason to ignore Him or what is written that He said.

If you have - please share. If you haven't - please share your witness to God's saving grace.

If You've Been Reading . . .

 

I've you've been reading the last few days, you have to know the question. Still, a good number of people will be saying: I simply cannot believe what the Bible says. God cannot exist.

That is an option open to everyone. I know a number of people who have made that choice and are living with it, and keep their mind focused on their answer. Many are tired of being asked, do not wish to discuss it, and would be grateful if their family wouldn't bring it up again. They do not believe the Bible contains enough information to even determine there is a god, much less that it was inspired by the one God.

I understand. I cannot possibly agree. I am so firm in my believe that I care about people I dislike immensely (I would be happy to explain why!) but they are on my prayer list under Salvation List. One specifically would be termed a "ship wrecked reprobate" based on a couple of verses:

Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme. (1 Timothy 1:19-20)

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. (Titus 1:16)

Those are people who claim they know about God, may have even had a church membership, one or two may have been in a leadership position - but even the most minor of fruit inspections put them in one or the other of the verses above. 

The reason I pray for those who deny God's existence, which includes denying Jesus as His plan of salvation, is that I know where I will be eternally. That is a comfort for me. I also know where the Bible says non-believers will be. That saddens me.

Not because hell exists. Not because there is an uncrossable gulf between heaven and hell. Because right now I know I would miss their presence. That missing them will cease to exist in heaven, however. Once the hope ends, I expect the memories to end. Heaven will not be a place to remember what we have lost, but a place to enjoy what we have been given. I do expect to see a number of loved ones there. Those who chose not to be with us - I expect to forget.

Right now is the only time I have to get across the idea of making certain people who read this understand how important this question is. You may change your mind at any time, but it is necessary to decide: Do you believe there is a supreme deity? Upon what do you based this decision? How do you expect it to affect your life from now on?

Each answer determines the following question. I believe there is a supreme deity, and it is the Lord God of the Bible. I based miy decision on the Bible, other people's experiences, and my own. From my own profession of faith, I expected that decision to affect every day of my life - plus, I expect to spend eternity with Jesus in a prepared place.

God is not a puppeteer making people respond the way He wants them to. He does give opportunities to do His will, but explains well in Esther 4:14. Decide not to, and God will choose another. That same truth holds to the question of salvation. We cannot make that decision for another person. Everyone will choose for themselves, either heaven, or eternal separation from God.

Ever want something? Not have it, maybe not know how to get it, but want it? When you thought about it, you had hope that you might get it. We do that at Christmas time - a leftover from childhood. We also do it about other things. We hope for them. I believe Paul wrote about that (maybe had Luke as his writer):

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

We all have faith in something, even if it is the continued circling of the earth around a star. That has certain evidence, however, that tomorrow morning the sun will be seen in the eastern sky. Science has learned but about how that works - but all we have is the faith it will continue to work. This rocky world has destructive moments.

I have accepted Pascal's wager, and explained with limited abilities why I believe there will be an eternity, as well as my place in it. If I am right, several of my personal acquaintances will be disappointed. If I am wrong, and there is nothing, I shall not be disappointed nor will my acquaintances.

Where will you be if I am right?

Yesterday I Wrote About How To Be Saved

 

One reason for the many branches shown above - and many that are not even mentioned - has to do with mankind's interpretation of God's requirements for salvation beyond what Jesus and Paul so succincly added. There are a couple of reasons common to many. First is man's traditions. The Bible speaks of this often. My favorite verses are:

Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Matthew 22:36-39)

The Ten Commandments were given to Moses as he led the Israelites from Egypt to the home God promised them. The first four have to do with our relationship to God - Jesus cut those four down to one: love God. The next six have to do with our relationship to everyone in our lives - again that one: love everyone around us.

Every split above was done by people who interpreted the Bible differently than the people in the room with them. Just as the Bereans, when they first heard Paul's gospel message:

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few. But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people. (Acts 17:11-13)

God's messages to people are usually disturbing. Just as disturbing as it was to Adam and Eve. We become complacent in comfortable lives where a certain amount of sinfulness surrounds us with a level of comfort. God's messages usually cover specific sins, and are unwelcome by those wrapped in that comfort. Don't think of examples out of your sight - count the ones that have made themselves (and you) comfortable. Yep, that's a toe-stepper. I know. I've had to look at those. And I've had to face God in prayer and discuss their disappearance.

Jesus continues to build His church - His assembly of believers. Some belong to a specific denomination - but not all to the same denomination. Some are members of underground churches in countries where congregations are not allowed. They are just as saved as church members in centuries-old cathedrals. The organization, the building, the prayers, the attendance, the membership written on a ledger does not create followers of Christ. That's what a Christian is a follower, a disciple:

And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. (Acts 11:26)

Some Christians meet on the Sabbath - that is still Saturday, the last of seven days - to fulfill the fourth of the Ten Commandments. Other Christians meet on Sunday, the day of resurrection for our Lord, the Lord's day. Jesus spoke in the synagogue on the Sabbath, but He also picked grain, and told the naysayers:

And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: (Mark 2:27)

Once again, my answers to religious questions/debates/arguements has to come down to the Bible. No - I do not have it all memorized, nor do I know what all of it means.I don't have to. I have to use it for my life and my relationship with God. What I have to change in my life may not be what you have to change in yours. What we both are to change is what separates us from God.

The primary separation from God is unbelief. How do we come to know Him whom we do not know?

For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! (Romans 10:12-15)

Paul was well versed in scripture. Just as Nicodemus, he was a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin:

But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (Romans 10:16-18)

If you've read this page this far, you've heard the good news of God's salvation for mankind. What choice do you make of it?

What About How To Be Saved?

Wikipedia article

This photo (and the linked article) shows what is known as the schism between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox, or either one as The Holy Catholic Church. But it isn't the only division among Christianity:

From another Wikipedia article, we see divisions and we haven't even touched on the differences Christian organizations require for membership. Take our church for example. To become a member, the applicant must make a public profession of faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the propitiation of our sins. After making such a statement, members are expected to show their obedience by participating in baptism. That's all.

It is my understanding that several Christian denominations operate along similar lines. Others require specific training prior to membership, still others require specific participation as ongoing members. Methodology in worship fluctuates, too. But ...

But ... have you ever studied what the Bible says is required for salvation? And what happens after that?

Let's drop in on the discussion between Jesus and Nicodemus:

There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? (John 3:1-4)

Two thousand years ago Nicodemus, an educated leader in Judaism, member of the Sanhedrin, came to Jesus to learn more about Him and His miracles. I assure you, today people have the same question when the subject "You must be a born again Christian" arises. Yet Jesus states it as a fact, and expects Nicodemus to know about it:

Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. (John 3:9-11)

Throughout the Bible God is shown as saying facts to people - and people decline to listen. There are consequences subsequent to not listening:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. (John 3:16-21)

I would almost wager that when you learned John 3:16 as a child you never read nor memorized John 3:18. More than likely you assumed everyone understood. A large number don't. Let's continue into Acts, the followup to the gospels, which tells what the Disciples took from Jesus teachings, though their actions often got them thrown into prison. Once, a good question from a prison guard was answered by Paul after a miraculous encounter:

And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. (Acts 16:31-33)

Jesus said it. Paul said it. It is written several times in the Bible, what it takes to be saved. Now, what is "saved"? From the condemnation God has for those who do not believe He is who He says He is. Yes, it is that simple. Tell anyone you do not believe there is a God, and if there were, He would never have dealt with mankind they way the Bible says. Two types of people say that - one who believes there is no god, another believes his god is bigger, better and spoke differently that the biblical one.

Thanks, but I'll stick with the biblical God. We don't know all there is about Him, but He has given us instructions that have lasted well over four thousand years. A drop in the bucket within the timeline science has given. I remain firmly convinced the Bible - written by men over a two thousand year timeframe - does provide all mankind needs to build the same relationship defined in Genesis, Psalms, Micah, the four gospels, and all the letters to the churches. Mankind walks with God just as Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel, Isaiah, Micah, Matthew, John, Peter, and perhaps one step out of time, Paul. 

Aren't you the least bit curious what made all of these men across history sufficiently firm in their conviction that God provided for them? Can you understand that I believe exactly the same thing?

Salvation through Jesus, the promised Christ, the Jewish Messiah, is this simple:

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:5-9)

Come back tomorrow. I have a bit more on where it gets difficult.