The Attitude: Blessed Are the Peacemakers There are many ways of being a peacemaker. One can make peace between himself and God. One can make peace between himself and family. One can make peace between himself and neighbors. One can make peace between himself and all he meets. One can make peace by helping others to obey God. One can make peace by serving as a go between of people having troubles. One can make peace by working for peace in the church. All of these are probably included in this attitude. It seems to me that Jesus is emphasizing much more than peace among men and nations. When we consider the blessing that follows, the idea of the peacemaker most assuredly extends to the person who obeys the will of God. This will result in peace with self and with others. When a person obeys the Lord, he is bringing about peace at the highest. Being a Christian is the greatest ‘peace contribution’ anyone can make (Philippians 4:7). The Christian and Peace The Christian should pursue peace (2 Timothy 2:22). Furthermore, the Christian should live in peace (2 Corinthians 13:11). In addition, the Christian must follow after things that make for peace (Romans 14:19). Things that make for peace are found in 1 Peter 3:8-13. Two great examples of peacemakers are Jesus (Isaiah 9:6) and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:1-4). The Reward: They Shall Be Called the Children of God Without question, to be called the child of God is …

“Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8 NKJV). The Attitude: Blessed Are the Pure in Heart The “heart” is regarded as being the seat of the intellect, the feeling and the will. Out of the heart comes all the issues and actions of life (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 5:18-19). An evil heart produces evil fruits; a good heart or pure heart produces good or pure fruit (Matthew 12:34-35; Proverbs 23:7). The Greek word for “pure” here means “clean, pure, free from corruption, sincere, genuine, blameless, innocent and guiltless.” The pure in heart are those who have pure, sincere, genuine or right motives. Those who “obey from the heart,” have a pure heart and comply with God’s will (Romans 6:16-18). Paul is a good example of one who always displayed this attitude (Acts 23:1). The Christian must have a pure heart. He must love God with the heart (Matthew 22:37), believe with the heart (Romans 10:10), honor God with the heart (1 Peter 3:15) and do God’s will from the heart (Ephesians 6:6). The Reward: They Shall See God There is no doubt that the pure in heart will see God in the literal sense at the Day of Judgment and throughout eternity. Yet, I do not think this is what Jesus here had in mind. In the literal sense, no man can “see” God now (John 1:18). To “see” means to possess, to enjoy, to experience, to receive the full benefits from. We often speak …

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3 NKJV). A proper understanding will help us appreciate these wonderful teachings of Jesus. “The Beatitudes” are expressions of proper attitudes with the results. To possess these attitudes we must put them into action. Rewards are connected with the attitudes. “The Beatitudes” are attitudes a child of God must possess to be happy and pleasing to the Lord. The Attitude: The Poor in Spirit “Poor in spirit” has no reference to what a person has, but what he is. It is an attitude. He is dependent in spirit; that is, he realizes that he must depend on God for all of his spiritual needs. He knows that he cannot rely on self (Jeremiah 10:23). We might describe a person “who is poor in spirit” as one who is lowly in mind (Ephesians 4:2), humble in his actions (Luke 14:11), tender in his feelings (Isaiah 66:2) and respectful in approach (Matthew 6:9). A good example of “poor in spirit” is the tax collector of Luke 18:9-14. The “poor in spirit” are those who recognize their need for the Great Physician (Matthew 9:10-12). The Reward: Theirs Is the Kingdom of Heaven The kingdom with all its blessings is theirs. It means that they gain all the benefits that come by being citizens of heaven’s kingdom. The highest values of life belong to those who are “poor in spirit.”

The body of Lenin lies in a crystal casket in a mausoleum at Red Square in Moscow, Russia. There is a sign by his casket that says, “For he was the greatest leader of people, of all time. He was Lord of the new humanity. He was Saviour of the world.” Notice if you will that the past tense is used to describe Lenin. The Bible speaks of Jesus in three tenses. In Hebrews 13:8 Paul said, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” John gives us Jesus’ own description of himself in Revelation 1:8 as, “…the Lord which is, which was, and which is to come the Almighty.” What a difference between the god of communism and the God of Christianity! Why not let Jesus lead you to heaven by allowing him to make a new man out of you (John 3:3, 5)? Why not let him be your Savior, the Author of your eternal salvation (Hebrews 5:8, 9)?

To Christians who may have been overcome by self-pity, the Holy Spirit reminded, “…consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin” (Hebrews 12:3, 4). It does not sound like a very compassionate tone, does it? So, the Spirit proceeds with a discussion of joyfully accepting Divine discipline. “And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives” (Hebrews 12:5-6). Such disciplining comments and exhortations emanate from love, not bitterness. They proceed from a God who wants us to be trained to be “partakers of His holiness” (12:10). The recipients count the comments not as pleasant, but if wise, as useful to be trained toward righteousness (12:11). After all, our physical parents have disciplined us for our good – why shouldn’t our Heavenly Father do the same (12:9)? God’s discipline comes through words. Well, not just any old words such as might be used by an angry dad scolding a disobedient son. God’s discipline comes through inspired words that pierce the conscience-laden heart. His Word is “living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of …

Recently while I was driving home from church services I noted a sign stating, “Home for Sale.” It reminded me of an event related to me some years ago and that has remained for consideration ever since. A preacher friend told the following story. “I overheard the following and it made me very proud. My family and I had just moved into a new work, and we were busy getting settled. A new neighbor’s son was talking to my son. He asked, ‘Why don’t you people have a home?’ My son stated, ‘Well, we’ve got a home. Daddy just hasn’t found a place to put it yet! We’re just looking around for the right place to put our home.’” Can you, dear reader, make such a statement? Do you truly have a home as God would have it, although your family isn’t settled in one place? Some 70 times the Bible mentions “home.” Several other passages set forth the relationship that should prevail in a home that God desires. Typical is Colossians 3:17-23, which enjoins wives to be submissive unto their husbands, children to be obedient to parents, husbands to love their wives and not be bitter against them, and fathers to not provoke their children to anger. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17). Whether the family has a permanent dwelling or not, it can still have such …

The selection process of an earthly head of a church has been highlighted by the media around the world lately. Many are getting the idea that this is the picture of Christianity. What does the Bible teach about the headship of the church? Christ Jesus came to build his church (Matthew 16:18). In fact, the church came into existence as He promised and saved people; first Jews were added (Acts 2:47). However, with the conversion of Cornelius (Acts 10), the Gentile world was added under the same conditions of salvation (Acts 4:12; Romans 10:12). Paul noted that ‘there is no difference in the Jew and the Greek, the same Lord is Lord over all and is rich unto all who call upon Him.’ Is not the ‘Him’ part of this passage very important? Does not this passage settle who is Lord over the saved, the church? Romans 10:12 is but one passage declaring Jesus as the Head of the church (Ephesians 1:22-23) and King over his kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14). Besides this, Jesus is the only Mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5-6). Contemporary mankind often has an earthly view of Christianity and tries to redefine this teaching. Do you accept the biblical teaching about the church or what you see on TV?

It is a terrible habit to strike and hit others. Sometimes we adopt the practice of imitating characters in the movies. Allowing words and habits of others to disturb us so much that we hurt others will come to an end; shouting and kicking others will cease. Striking and challenging others will not be chosen when we ‘do as we would have them do.’ The Scriptures teach us to report violence to authorities like principals and coaches, police, sheriff and parents so they can act within the law to protect you from the violence of others (Romans 13:1-7). Romans 12:17 plainly teaches us to let God avenge for us! When it comes to the law of the land, government can punish lawbreakers. That is the proper place for us to place our anger; God and the law will execute justice. If we get into the habit of striking others because we disagree with them, we run the risk of being under arrest and going to jail. This is proper because society needs to be protected. One of our founding fathers of great USA noted, “I disagree with you, but I will defend to the death your right to say those things.” The right to disagree with others and not be struck by them is a freedom in America which should be cherished by all (Proverbs 22:24-25). [Editor’s Note: First Timothy 3:3 says of a candidate for appointment as a “bishop” or elder, “Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy …

A non-Christian must begin making certain changes in his or her life, if he or she truly seeks to obtain immortality (Romans 2:5-10; Acts 2:36-38; 1 Peter 3:21). However, some of you have already obeyed the good news of Jesus Christ. As a child of God, are you changing into what God wants? Are you seeking to stand out from the world and become more and more like your Lord (Romans 12:1-2)? How are you progressing in eliminating your sinful habits? Is your daily language appropriate for a Christian (Ephesians 4:29-31; Colossians 3:8)? How devoted are you to the truth (Ephesians 4:25, 15)? Are you working on governing your emotions (James 1:19-20; Ephesians 4:26; Colossians 3:12-15)? There are several passages to study as we begin making needed changes and adjustments (Galatians 5:1-6:10; Ephesians 4:1-6:9; Romans 12; Colossians 3:1-4:6; etc.). What Must Not Change? While there are many things that must change to please God, there are also many things that must not ever change, unless we are seeking God’s wrath in the final Day (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10). As the Lord’s people, we must stand steadfast against the changes that are sought by so many. These changes do come from outside the body, but they often assail from within the Lord’s own church (2 Peter 2:1-ff; Jude 4). The ultimate goal of such changes is to please self. The foundational change finds its center in the nature of God. God is no longer viewed as an unchanging, infinite, complete and perfect …

The question is, “Why?” The answer is, “Love.” Why should I listen to God? Why should I obey the Gospel? Why should I teach others about Jesus? Why should I stand up firmly for what is right? Why should I be willing to face possible persecution or even death? The ultimate answer is, indeed, “love.” Love for God Our major motivation for doing right should be our love for God. Our love and allegiance to God will affect everything we do. Our love for God should make us want to avoid sin. Our love for God is reciprocal (1 John 4:19); it is a returning of love to the One who is the epitome of love (John 3:16). Love for His Son Jesus came and willingly gave Himself up for us. He went as far as to die on that horrible instrument of death, the cross (Hebrews 12:1-4). His act of leaving His heavenly home and coming to earth was an act of love. His time spent learning all that we have to go through was motivated by His love for us. That kind of love demands that we return it in kind. Love for His Word The 119th Psalm is a beautiful “love song” to the Word of God. We have some letters at home that were written by my wife’s mother. She passed away over 22 years ago. Those letters are precious to us because of who the author is. How much more should we love the writings that …

Millions of people around the globe have been and continue to be influenced by the theological slant of a 16th century reformer named John Calvin. Calvin, influenced by such notables as Augustine, Ulrich Zwingli and Martin Luther, presented views of God and the salvation of man in his Institutes of the Christian Religion. If Calvinism was congruent, or equal to “the Doctrine of Christ,” then we would be discussing Christ and his doctrine, and we may never have heard of the term “Calvinism.” Unfortunately, all too many have bought the assumption that to speak of Calvinism is the same as speaking of Christ and His doctrine. Yet, they are not the same. All men must determine who they are going to follow. Why is there the human tendency for us to either worship or follow after the doctrines of uninspired, mere mortal men? True Christians must follow none other than Jesus Christ, allowing His Word to abide in us. Will we hear Calvin, Krishna or Christ? God says, “Hear my Son” (cf., Matthew 17:5; Hebrews 1:2). Calvinism has its own distinct way of viewing God. With an improper view of God’s sovereignty, Calvin took it to the extreme by claiming that God makes all the choices and is responsible for everything that happens. Calvin says before the foundation of the world, God chose specific individuals (he foreknew and foreordained) to be among the “elect.” On the other hand, those specific individuals he did not predestine to be among the elect are …

Gambling violates a number of biblical principles (see article above). However, many are convinced that justification for the activity can be found. Let’s consider some commonly made assertions. First, the “Life is a risk” argument. Nearly all we do has some risk. Getting into a car exposes us to risk. Eating at a restaurant may be somewhat risky. Etcetera, etcetera. Supposedly, this gives grounds for allowing gambling. Common sense to the rescue! Reasonable risk in everyday life is not to be equated with avoidable, purposeful risk in gambling, with intent to profit by the loss of others. Our Lord Jesus traveled by donkey and by boat, but He never purposefully gambled in an effort to gain. Second, the “stock market” argument. Can participation in buying stocks be paralleled with putting money out in gambling? Indeed both involve some risk. Yet, the analogy then breaks down. Diversified investing in stocks has proven generally to be a wise investment. Jesus spoke of the wisdom of putting “money to the bankers, and at my coming I should have received back mine own with interest” (Matthew 25:27). Prudent stock investing is one thing, but gambling is never seriously called an “investment.” Even careless stock speculation would be a violation of wise stewardship. Third, the “just for fun” ploy. The argument goes something like this. “Some people choose to spend some money on going to the movies or other entertainment, but I choose to be entertained by spending some on gambling.” Indeed, both movie viewing and …

Have you ever dreamed of winning the lottery? Many people have, and many keep on paying to try. Gambling has gradually lost its stigma of being an evil. Have you ever stopped to ponder what your view of gambling is actually based upon? “Gamble” is defined by Webster as, “to play games of chance for money or other stake.” The verb’s transitive form is defined as: “to lose by betting; to waste; to squander; followed by away.” For those who respect the Bible as the inspired Word of God, there are biblical principles that must be considered. Read Ephesians 5:3-5. This partial listing of sins concludes by warning that anyone who persists in these vices has no “inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” Specifically named is the “covetous person” (v. 5). From the original language this is defined as, “one eager to have more, esp. what belongs to others” (J.H. Thayer, Greek-English Lexicon). It is readily apparent that this definition corresponds with the eagerness that a gambler has. The motive in gambling is a desire to receive gain, at the loss of others, without the usual effort of labor or fair exchange. Consider some principles. First, Jesus challenged His followers to live by the “golden rule” (Matthew 7:12). To paraphrase, ‘Treat others in the way you would desire to be treated.’ Can someone gamble while simultaneously following that philosophy? No. “I hope I win,” would necessarily mean others will need to lose. “Let no man seek his own, but each his neighbor’s …

A complaint arose among Hellenists, likely converts from among the Greek speaking Jews scattered throughout the world. They felt their widows were not being cared for as well as the widows of the Hebrews in the daily distribution. Whether the charge resulted through an accidental or intentional oversight is not known. At the very least, the perceived problem obviously threatened the peace and unity of the young church (Acts 6:1). The apostles said it was inappropriate for them to cease devoting their full energies to the Word in order to serve tables. They directed the Christians to look among their own number to find seven men qualified to carry out the work. It is good for men who will manage monetary affairs or hold positions of authority to be selected by the people they will serve. The men had to be known as good men, full of the Holy Spirit, which may have meant they possessed miraculous gifts or it may have referred to fully displaying the fruit of the Spirit. They also would need “skill in the management of affairs,” which Thayer says is the definition of “wisdom.” The apostles would appoint the seven selected to attend to this important matter. They planned to continue to focus on prayer and ministering to others with the Word of God (Acts 6:2-4; Galatians 5:22-26). The multitude of believers thought the apostles had a good solution. They chose Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, all Greek …

Some of our religious neighbors only partake of the Lord’s Supper on a quarterly or annual basis. Others partake of it various days of the week and at special events, like weddings. Let us pause to consider what God’s Word says about the matter. Luke’s casual comment that Paul and his company stayed seven days in Troas enlightens us as to the custom of worship in New Testament times (Acts 20:6-7). They came together on the first day of the week to break bread. Paul and his company were there on every day of the week, yet they partook of the Lord’s Supper only on the Lord’s Day. Even though an inspired apostle spoke on that occasion, mention of that fact takes a back seat to remembering the Lord’s death. The first day was also the day Jesus was raised and the day His church was established (Mark 16:9; Acts 2; Leviticus 23:15-16). Gus Nichols wrote a good article on the frequency of our Lord’s Supper observance. He quoted 1 Corinthians 11:20-22 and said, “If a schoolteacher should say to some naughty boys, ‘You did not come here to learn,’ she would be understood to mean that they should have come for that purpose. Hence the apostle’s meaning is clear when in reproving the church he said they had not assembled to eat the Lord’s Supper.” Early Christians assembled to partake of the Lord’s Supper. Jews understood God’s instructions to, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8) …

When Moses met with God at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14), God revealed himself as “I AM” (Jehovah). God, according to Paul, “made the world and all things therein” (Acts 17:24). Jesus, according to the apostle John was “with God, and was God” (John 1:1). When Jesus used the words “I am” (ego eimi), He declared Himself Deity. In the Gospel of John, Jesus uttered seven statements prefaced by the words “I am.” Notice their significance. “I am the bread of life” (6:35). This statement is connected to the Feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:1-13). It is the climactic statement in the discourse following the feeding. Christ is the bread which brings life. He is the sustenance that nourishes spiritual life. “I am the light of the world” (8:12). This statement is connected to the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths (John 7:1-13). Lights were present all through Jerusalem and in the Temple during this Feast. Israel had been led by lights in the day and night during the wilderness wondering. Even the magnificent Candelabra was light in the court of women during this feast. With this scene as the backdrop, Jesus declares that He is the true light. Further emphasis is seen in the spiritual darkness in which the adulterous woman lived (7:53-8:11) and literal darkness in which the blind man lived at the pool of Siloam (9:1-12). Jesus did not just bring light, He embodied light (cf. 1 John 1:5-2:2). “I am the gate for the sheep” (10:7, 9). This statement is …

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have an apostle like Peter or Paul still alive today? In that vein, there are many questions that I have. What were they like? What would they think of American culture? What types of lives would they live? How would they preach, sing, pray, give and study? More importantly, what would they have to say to the church? What positive comments would they have? What rebukes would they give? One question on which I want to focus is what would make someone like the apostle Paul joyful? I think we would all say that if Jesus or one of His apostles were living among us today, we would want to please them and bring them joy. Consider some things that Paul said brought him deep joy. Paul rejoiced to learn of the obedience of Christians (2 Corinthians 7:15-16). Paul considered faithful churches that he had planted to be his “joy” or “crown of rejoicing” (Philippians 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20). Paul found no pleasure in watching others mourn over their sin, but he was joyful when God’s Word pricked one’s heart enough for him or her to repent, realizing that it leads to salvation (2 Corinthians 7:8-10). This repentance produced “diligence,” “vindication,” “indignation” (toward sin), “fear” (cause for alarm), “longing,” “zeal” and “avenging of wrong.” It “proved [them] innocent” and caused Paul to rejoice (2 Corinthians 7:11). Paul rejoiced to learn his fellow workers were refreshed and encouraged by the godly …

 “And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into the hell of fire” (Matthew 18:8-9). The above passage of Scripture reminds us that Jesus warned more about avoiding the horror of eternal punishment than he taught about the beauty of heaven. The reason He did so is because He wants us to go to heaven! It is likely the people He taught during His earthly ministry were much like the people of our day. We cannot imagine God condemning us personally to spend eternity in hell (perhaps it is not so hard when thinking of others), and so we are less than objective about how we live. I must admit, in all my years of serving in the kingdom, I have rarely attended a funeral where a loved one said of the deceased that they were not in heaven. We tend to think of ourselves and our loved ones as being saved. If we are New Testament Christians, we should think so, because God is full of love, mercy and compassion. Through Jesus and His sacrifice, the gift of eternal life is …

Have you ever felt overwhelmed with a feeling of inadequacy when you observe some of the situations in life? There are scenes on television that depict wars being fought on foreign soils in which not only the soldiers but innocent civilians are killed. News reports fill our minds with the facts that thousands of people are actually starving to death because of an acute shortage of food. You learn of embittered conflicts being waged between citizens of the same country and even of the same city wherein people of all ages are murdered or maimed for life. Practically every day stories are brought to our attention of injustices abounding in our own land. Because of the greed of some, the poor and illiterate are taken advantage of and are caused to suffer in various ways. Then there are the aged who are lonely. Because of inflation, they are deprived of proper food and other necessities of life. The nursing homes are filled with the old and infirmed. All know those who are very sick, some with terminal diseases. Others are plagued with emotional problems. There are individuals whose hearts are broken due to the untimely death of a child, the passing of a parent or one’s mate. It seems that on every hand we find the downtrodden, the bereaved, the oppressed and the broken-hearted. Thus, we ask ourselves the question, “What can I do?” The problems of this world are so complex and vast, and “I am but one person …

Is there any bitterness in your heart that you should do away with? Are there things you regret about your life? Made any bad decisions that you’re not happy about? Absolutely! We all have. Yet, if we keep letting those things bring us down, we’re not only wasting our time, we’re violating God’s Word. Forgiveness is a difficult thing sometimes. It is especially difficult when it’s ourselves that we need to forgive. We’re frail and imperfect. Most of us are quick to anger, quick to blame, slow to forgive and even slower to forget. However, God’s command was that His people be a forgiving people. We’ve been forgiven, so why not extend that blessing to others? Is there one person against whom you hold some kind of bitterness or unforgiveness? Or are you bitter toward yourself for some mistake you’ve made? Either way, it’s time to forgive and move on. Hatred, regret and bitterness are not a part of God’s plan for anyone’s life. Forgiveness is. It’s time to move on, isn’t it? Find some time today to read Ephesians 4, especially verses 31-32. Think about it and live it.

The recipients of the inspired letter to the Hebrews were encouraged to keep their focus and attention upon “Jesus the author and finisher of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:2). This comment lies in the shadow of the previous chapter, considered or titled by many as the “Inspired Hall of Fame” or “Heroes of Faith.” We find those people of God possessed such a tremendous faith in God that it strengthened them to do great things for Him. Most of us have been involved in activities where there was an audience. In the same way, the writer to the Hebrews says in the verses following the list of those great people of faith, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). Before one can run the race that is set before him with any hope of finishing, he must first take off those things that weigh him down. Weights are good to train and strengthen, but when one desires to be most successful, the weights must come off. When a baseball player practices his swing, a weight (donut) is placed on the bat to give it more weight, and then when he goes to bat, the weight is taken off to enable him to swing easier and more powerfully. The same holds true for those seeking …

It is important to try to understand orthodox Islam. I continue to be shocked at the constant verifiable information about this bloody religion. No, it is not a religion of peace, but a religion of killing, blood and hate. Convert to Islam or else! Friends, I take no pleasure thinking and writing about such things as to the violent nature of Islam. To be very truthful with you, our current times remind me of Nazism of the 1930’s that led to World War II. The “final solution” was brought on because of hatred of Jewish people. These terrible facts of history are depressing. We are now living in an era again where hatred and bloodthirsty killing are common. (https://www.jihadwatch.org/2011/11/gaza-jihadist-prays-to-allah-you-have-made-our-killing-of-the-jews-an-act-of-worship-through-which-w.html) “Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: The last hour would not come unless the Muslims will fight against the Jews and the Muslims would kill them until the Jews would hide themselves behind a stone or a tree and a stone or a tree would say: Muslim, or the servant of Allah, there is a Jew behind me; come and kill him; but the tree Gharqad would not say, for it is the tree of the Jews.” (https://www.muslimaccess.com/sunnah/hadeeth/muslim/041.html) According to history, the religion of Islam started in the year A.D. 610. Muhammad claimed to have received revelations from Allah. Muhammad’s companions wrote down these revelations in a book called the Qur’an, also known as the Koran. As we study the Word of God, the Bible, …

For many of us, when we think of atheists, we think, well they don’t believe in God. They are passive in their conduct. As long as people are law-abiding citizens, we all seem to be tolerant of each other. We may not believe and we may rule out what others teach or adhere to; however, we still can be civilized to each other. Such is life, so to speak. The rub comes in when organizations, etc. try to change long accepted beliefs of everyday citizens via making these beliefs against the law of the land. We are facing such today. Please notice following extracted from www.secular.org. The Secular Coalition for America is the only organization in the nation whose primary purpose is lobbying Congress on behalf of atheists, humanists, freethinkers, and other nontheistic Americans. From our office in the nation’s capital, our full-time lobbyist and support staff engage public policy makers and the media on issues ranging from religion’s influence on education and medical research to the privileging of faith groups by government. We are the first and only cooperative venture of eight member organizations coming together to improve the political situation of a previously unrepresented constituency: the tens of millions of atheists and agnostics in the United States. What is this atheistic organization lobbying Congress about? They oppose statements that our rights are derived from God. They oppose the statement that the USA is a “Christian nation.” They oppose the statements like “under God” in our “Pledge of Allegiance.” …

How important is it not only to do what God has said, but to do it in the way that He has told us to do it? Another way to ask the same question is this, “Does God really mean what He says?” As you consider the answers to these questions, consider the example of Moses. In Numbers 20, the congregation of Israel began to grumble because there was no water (2-5). In this case, God told Moses to speak to the rock in order that they might have water (6-9). Note that in Exodus 17 there is a very similar account, but in that case Moses was instructed to strike the rock; however, in Numbers 20, Moses was told to speak, not to strike. Nevertheless, Moses, frustrated with the rebelliousness of the people, struck the rock and it brought forth water (10-11). Does this mean that it does not matter that Moses struck instead of speaking? Though the rock brought forth water, God was very displeased with Moses and Aaron, and He forbade them from entering the Promised Land (12). Why? “Because you did not believe in Me, to uphold Me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel…” (12). Thus, when we don’t do what God says in the way He says to do it, it demonstrates a lack of faith on our part, and our action does not honor God. [The New Testament is the source of God’s instructions for mankind living today (Ephesians 2:15; …

First Samuel 17 records a challenge issued by a mountain of a man to an entire opposing army. The challenge came from Goliath of Gath, who stood six cubits and a span. A cubit is about 18 inches; this means that Goliath stood well over 9 feet tall! The dare was made to the entire army of Israel: send out your champion so that we can do battle. Morning and evening for a period of 40 days the Philistine giant defied the armies of God with no answer. When David heard this, he could not believe that no one would accept his challenge, and so accepted the challenge himself. What gave David the courage to stand before the giant, with the confidence that he could defeat him? He trusted God. With God at his side while defending his father’s sheep, David as a shepherd had already killed a lion and a bear. David knew and understood that if God was with him, the giant, and any who defied the living God, would share the same fate as the lion and the bear. It was because of his unwavering trust in God that at the end of the day he, a youthful shepherd, the youngest of his family, stood over of body Goliath, the Philistine champion. [Christians can do whatever God wants them to do if they rely on the strength of Jesus Christ to do it (Philippians 4:13). ~ Louis Rushmore, Editor]

Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, King of the world, built a great statue of gold. On the day the statue was dedicated, the king gave an order to fall down and worship the idol when the music played. This event was so momentous that the king gathered all the governors of his empire to come pay homage to himself and his new statue. Among the witnesses of the event were three Jews by the name of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego. They were given the same order as everyone else—at the sound of the music, fall down and worship the idol. The penalty for anyone’s disobedience (i.e., not worshiping the idol) was to be cast immediately into the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:1-18). There was a dilemma here similar to one found in Daniel 6—honor God or honor the king. Believers are to be subject to governments since they are instituted by God (Romans 13:1f), but what about when they give orders contrary to the law of God? In those cases, we must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego stood boldly before the king and said, “No.” Knowing the command of the king and the punishment to follow for breaking the command, they were believers and would not violate the law of God. We, also, must boldly stand against the king and his fiery furnace when he commands us to violate the law of God. [A fiery furnace may not await the children of God who opt to …