I Am Ashamed
What must the body of Christ in other parts of the world be thinking, while watching and reading about the actions taking place here in America right now by the Church…a better question is what does our Lord think?
Yes I’m ashamed…
Please read these quotes. Not all of them pertain to the photo above–in fact only 2 of them were found posted under this story (there were mega-pages): the rest were a random sampling taken from 100’s of comments under another news story (below) yesterday concerning letters sent out out by at least 2 of our rightwing’ Christian political leaders.
Quote..
-They profess to be Christians but they are not true Christians. These people don’t have the capacity to love. They hide behind a false Christianity.
-I can tell you that if Jesus does come back the first ones he throws in the pit will be these losers
-When I observe the stupidity of these people I thank god I’m still an atheist.
-What Would Jesus Do? Do you think He’d lie, smear, scare, just for a political agenda? I think not.
-Is THIS the new evangelical movement! Gee, why are so many people leaving Christianity?? Why is it so hard to recruit new young Americans to Christianity anymore? Maybe it’s the hate and hypocrisy?
-These aren’t Christians. These are religious extremists
-These are the people who push folks away from the church. I wonder if they think that is what Jesus would do.
-The Christian Right continues to act in unChristian ways.
-If Jesus came down today and saw the American churches today, I think He’d want to do the same thing to these people as he did to the moneychangers and turn over their voter guides and mailings and and yell — “My House shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of corruption and politicians!”
-Today, I got an email from an old roommate that said “October surprise–for real” bringing up Phillip Berg and the birth certificate thing. What was remarkable is that throughout the email, it even said that there was a chance that these things weren’t true, but if enough people could read this “well-done 10 minute video” that maybe enough doubt could be cast to swing the election. That video had 2.8 million views already–and supposedly it was just released within the last week. I just had it–Slander is a sin. Lying is a sin. But evidently these evidently are sins they can justify. Some–not all–of today’s evangelical political activists are certainly looking more like money-changers than Jesus.
-It’s astonishing that people who describe themselves as “Christians” can be so filled with hate. They quite clearly, have not really understood the word of Christ. It’s tragic how driven by fear these people are. To preach fear in the name of Christ is a crime against everything the Bible ought to represent. It is in the worst traditions of the Church.
-Gotta love where Christianity ended up…
-And once again I find my early turn to atheism confirmed as the correct choice
-They are a very scary bunch. When I go to church I don’t want to hear about politics and when I look to my political leaders I don’t want to hear about religion.
-The irony is it’s hard to tell fundie Christians apart from radical Muslims
-These so called “Christians” are what the bible refers to as “vipers” “snakes”, “sheep in wolf clothing.” I am still trying to understand who is the Christ they believe in. I am certain it is not the biblical Christ who told us to love others.
-Where is the outrage from the true Christian community? From everything I’ve ever read or been taught about Christianity, you love people. I am not a religious man myself, however, I am a man with morals and I find it extremely offensive when I see the great hypocrisy of these far-rightwing “Christians”. It is their book and their 10 commandments and if they hope to persuade others to follow the teachings of these, they had best lead by example. Actions speak louder than words. As your bumper stickers advise me and the rest of the world, “ASK YOURSELVES, WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?” – For the record , I am a 51 year old white American male.
This is what the lost think about us…about the Church. THANK GOD most of them don’t blame Jesus.
From MSNBC: Christian right intensifies attacks on Obama
Quote..
Terrorist strikes on four American cities. Russia rolling into Eastern Europe. Israel hit by a nuclear bomb. Gay marriage in every state. The end of the Boy Scouts.
All are plausible scenarios if Democrat Barack Obama is elected president, according to a new addition to the campaign conversation called “Letter from 2012 in Obama’s America,” produced by the conservative Christian group Focus on the Family Action.
The imagined look into the future is part of an escalation in rhetoric from Christian right activists who are trying to paint Obama in the worst possible terms as the campaign heads into the final stretch and polls show the Democrat ahead.
Like other political advocacy groups, Christian right groups often raise worries about an election’s consequences to mobilize voters. In the early 1980s, for example, direct mail from the Moral Majority warned that Congress would turn a blind eye to “smut peddlers” dangling pornography to children.
“Everyone uses fear in the last part of a campaign, but evangelicals are especially theologically prone to those sorts of arguments,” said Clyde Wilcox, a Georgetown University political scientist.
But the tone this election year is sharper than usual and the volume has turned up as Nov. 4 nears.
Steve Strang, publisher of Charisma magazine, a Pentecostal publication, titled one of his recent weekly e-mails to readers, “Life As We Know It Will End If Obama is Elected.”
Separately, a group called the Christian Anti-Defamation Commission has posted a series of videos on its site and on YouTube called “7 Reasons Barack Obama is not a Christian.”
The commission accuses Obama of “subtle diabolical deceit”..
But among the strongest pieces this year is Focus on the Family Action’s letter which has been posted on the group’s Web site and making the e-mail rounds.
Among the claims:
- A 6-3 liberal majority Supreme Court that results in rulings like one making gay marriage the law of the land and another forcing the Boy Scouts to “hire homosexual scoutmasters and allow them to sleep in tents with young boys.” (In the imagined scenario, The Boy Scouts choose to disband rather than obey).
- A series of domestic and international disasters based on Obama’s “reluctance to send troops overseas.” That includes terrorist attacks on U.S. soil that kill hundreds, Russia occupying the Baltic states and Eastern European countries including Poland and the Czech Republic, and al-Qaida overwhelming Iraq.
- Nationalized health care with long lines for surgery and no access to hospitals for people over 80.
The goal was to “articulate the big picture,” said Carrie Gordon Earll, senior director of public policy for Focus on the Family Action. “If it is a doomsday picture, then it’s a realistic picture,” she said. (full article at link)
This is nothing but fear mongering folks. Sowing seeds of fear instead of encouraging faith in God…
I read Peter Wagner’s fellow NAR member, Stephen Strang’s Report two weeks ago and thought about posting about it-but decided not too–it was so inflammatory and was written to generate fear. Plus it was filled with speculations, half truths and out-right lies. Thank the Lord a fair portion of the 300 or so Christians who left comments under it, agreed:
I never thought I’d be ashamed of something that came out of Charisma Magazine founder Steve Strang . . . but I am now. I am a faithful bible-believing follower of Jesus Christ. The fear-mongering and borderline racism, the over-the-top alarmist rhetoric of this article is absolutely reprehensible.
Again, I am ashamed…
The lost look on, as well as do our brothers and sisters in Christ, around the world, and we allow these apostates to represent us. I wanted to leave a comment in protest under one of the news articles yesterday in which some of the sad comments above were left–but you know what folks, I didn’t know what to say. I had no defense to make: for myself personally perhaps, but not for this group of Christian right-wing political leaders. It seemed useless to say, “Hey, we’re not all like this!”…when it seems so many are following after and believing these radicals.
They are smearing our testimony, the Gospel, and the name of Christ…all for personal agenda.
Quote from..
Premonition – A Divulge of ‘Fascist Christianity’ – The Rise of Neo-Crusaders
Some folks have asked if I have had any dreams, visions, or words of prophecy concerning the USA and her future lately. I will tell you plainly that I have not had any, however, I have had very strong premonition as to the disastrous direction in which ‘Political Evangelical Christianity’ is headed in the USA.
That direction is none other than ‘Fascist Christianity’ in which some ‘Christians’ use unbiblical Christianity as means to decimate all who are seen as enemies… and thus enemies of the USA.
… it is serious and unless Evangelical Christians in America realize and discern the insanity being preached on her pulpits in the name of “Take America Back”, “One Nation Under God”, “Christian President” and many other ‘Political Christianity’ narratives and clichés, Evangelical America is headed towards days of gloom and darkness with lots of blood that might be placed at her feet.
They say History keeps repeating and those who do not learn from it will keep repeating the same mistakes. It is not the first time that Christianity has been hijacked and used by individuals for political and militaristic purposes.
Those who would take what I am saying as being insignificant should ask themselves why Christians participated in the Crusade wars in the Dark ages and went on a killing spree across Europe all the way to the Middle East to eradicate Islamic expansion and “Take Back Jerusalem” from the ‘infidels. Is it not interesting that today we have Christians who are driven with similar zeal..
Interestingly when the Crusaders arrived in Jerusalem, they turned against the Jews whom they claimed they had come to rescue from Moslem Expansionists. The Crusaders slaughtered the Jews claiming that they were responsible for the death of Jesus Christ. The threat then was Muslim expansion and the threat is the same today according to the eyes of America’s Political Evangelical Christianity…
One would wonder why Christians participated in the burning of witches and the Great Inquisition in the dark ages… What led to Christians turning against other Christians who did not agree with them? How in the world could a Christian who is supposed to preach the Love of Jesus Christ turn to acts of Hate and Murder?
In the 20th century, Christians would again join Germany’s Adolph Hitler in his quest to exterminate the Jews. One wonders why the Church during Hitler’s reign did not speak out against the oppression of the weak, poor, and the Jews. What happened was that the Church aligned itself with the politicians and the result was fascism that the world had never seen before.
Fast forward to the latest example in 1994 when one million Tutsis and moderate Hutus were slaughtered and killed by their fellow citizens in Rwanda. I happened to travel to Rwanda weeks that followed after the genocide ended. We went with a church team to help minister to the Christians that had survived the genocide. It was shocking to find many Rwandese Evangelical Pastors were involved in the genocide.
What happened was that Tutsi and Hutu moderates would run for refuge in a Christian Church only for the Pastor to call upon a group of young men with machetes who then slaughtered the refugees right inside the Church. It happened across from the Catholic Church, Protestant Church to the Evangelical Church, Preachers, Pastors, Priests and lay Christians participating in hate and then murder.
What would cause a Christian to act in such a way?
Could it ever happen in America? My prayer is that it will not, perhaps Christians would learn from mistakes of the past and not repeat them.
It is important to keep in mind that there are many Evangelical Christians in the USA who are denouncing Political Christianity and all the bigotry and hate being spewed out of American Evangelical pulpits. Evangelical Christianity has been ‘hijacked’ by some groups that are bent on turning it into a Political and even militant group; and these individuals have found their way into pulpits and bible seminaries and it is to such groups and political activists that the American Christian must discern and keep away from.
‘Fascist Christianity’…I thought Christianity was about the Gospel of Jesus Christ…? It sounds like an oxymoron to say ‘Fascist Christianity’ and it is for sure one, but that is the direction in which Political Evangelical Christianity is headed.
They say tough times reveal character and this election season in America has revealed the heart of Political Evangelical Christianity as being vile, intolerant, hateful, and murderous at heart and void of the True Biblical Love and Truth of Jesus Christ.
Political Evangelical Christians consider themselves to be “Pro America” and “Real American”, while all the ‘Liberals’ are considered “None Americans”, “None Patriotic” and enemies…
The terrifying and cold undercurrent of all this Political Evangelical Madness is HATE and that is what I am warning every Evangelical Christian about. It is HATE grounded in fear that Moslems, Liberals and Arabs will overrun the USA. It is this HATE that will fuel ‘Fascist Christianity’ resulting in what exterminating those who are of different opinions.
Some may say this is impossible but how did a well developed and civilized society like Germany end up with Hitler and Christians backing him in his genocide plans? Just like Islam was seen as a threat to Christians in Europe so is Islam seen as a threat to Political Evangelical Christians in America. The result was hate, fascism, and finally murder. The end of the road of fascism is always genocide…
My prayer is that US Evangelicals will not get to such levels…that they will know that their enemy is not the Moslem or Arab and or Liberal but Satan, and that they should wage a war of good acts of kindness, love and truth of Jesus Christ and do what Jesus Christ would do…that they will hold on to Justice and fight for the weak, poor, orphans, and the neglected of this world…that they will not revenge but remember that vengeance belongs only to God.
American Evangelicals are being slowly but surely being conditioned with hate and prepared for fascism..
****
I personally denounce these groups of fear mongering faithless political dominionist nuts! I want no part of them and their agendas. And I do not consider them brethren…not until they repent.
“I trust in You, O Lord…. My times are in Your hand.” Psalm 31:14-15
“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith.” Hebrews 10:21-22
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts…” Colossians 3:15
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled.” Hebrews 12:14-15
“…walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1-3
“[Jesus] saw the city and wept over it, saying, ‘If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.’” Luke 19:41-44
“Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” John 20:21
Powerful… I am not a Christian, but I appreciate the thought and respect these thoughts…
Wow. This article really sent thoughts swirling in my head. I wonder what kind of speculating I’ll be doing in my sleep tonight…
Thanks for the scripture at the end. I know when I read things like this…I need a little pick me up…a little reminder at the end to make my thoughts obedient unto Christ and to regain focus.
In “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”, Luther sings:
“One little word shall fell him.”
There are three little words, that bring those to fall, who think that their battle for this or that candidate will decide the election (in the US or elsewhere):
John 18,36: “Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world; if my kingdom were of this world, my servants had fought that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but now my kingdom is not from hence.”
Daniel 2,21: ” And it is he that changeth times and seasons; He deposeth kings, and setteth up kings; He giveth wisdom to the wise, And knowledge to them that know understanding.”
Luke 22,25-26: “And he said to them, The kings of the nations rule over them, and they that exercise authority over them are called benefactors. But *ye* [shall] not [be] thus; but let the greater among you be as the younger, and the leader as he that serves.”
As a german, it’s not my part to comment on american christians, but because we have the same sort of people over here, I – having them in sight – would like to say: ” And I do not consider them brethren…not until they repent. ” Indeed, indeed and I’m ashamed of them too. There is, in my understanding, nothing that hinders the spreading of gospel in our country moore than this so called “christianity”.
Evangelical Christianity is a misnomer. Only 98% of evangelical Christians actually evangelize. Evangelical Christianity is a cultural movement, not a religious one. Wait, except that rates of divorce and abortion are as high in evangelical Christianity as in the general population, if not higher. So evangelical Christianity is … what then?
Very very sad, and very disturbing . . .
I was reviewing my own posts this morning and doing some editing. I was thinking that perhaps I was being a little too hard or maybe too repetitive in my writings concerning issues similar to those discussed above. After reading this post I see that we must continue to speak the truth. It’s the most loving thing anyone can do. Things really are as bad as I thought they were!
Thanks for posting this PJ.
Blessings,
Cathy
Thank you PJ for this.
This is the normal way of thinking for so many Christians sitting in pulpits in America, and it’s so scary. I am really having a hard time wrapping my brain around all of it. At least in my experience, many Preachers have taught people in the pews this authority idea, they believe anything and everything coming out of these pulpits because the “Man of God” said it.
How did things get to this point? Is it just a little bit of leaven? I for one want no part of this, and yes it’s shameful. I feel like you, I really do not know what to say
It is clear that this is a deliberate campaign to mold the masses opinions.
Now, we only have to wait for the next campaign: the first bomb planted by these ‘ fundamental groups ‘.
Maybe, the acts of these real groups are difficult to excuse. But do not forget, that this is the BATE, the powers lay in front of them.
You’ve articulated all I’ve always been thinking about this bunch. An excellent post indeed.
The spirit of fear and the Holy Spirit don’t reside together in a christian. I believe the spirit of fear leads people to do the very things that they fear will be done to them. Love and hate don’t reside together in a Christian either, if someone is full of hate and says they are a chrsitian then they are deceived and do not have the love of Christ in them.
You know it’s true when Christians act like a bunch of hate mongers why would anyone want what they have? I am concerned all the time that I am going to do or say something that is going to make someone view Jesus through my bad actions, I don’t want to fail him or cause someone else to fall becasue of something I have done or said.
I am not judgeing anyone for putting Christian bumper stickers on their cars but the reason I don’t is because if I drive like an idiot people see that fish and say there goes another one of those hypocrites. If you have one of those fish on your car please be a courteous driver and don’t drive like an idiot, the world is watching.
We as Christians need to watch what we are doing and saying because God sees and hears it all, and he is not the only one watching. My unsaved friends watch me more closely now than ever before and I have to make sure they see Jesus in my actions.
Everyone wants to be loved, we write books about it, make movies about it and look for it in all the wrong places. We have a lost and dying world that is looking for love, they aren’t looking for hate and fear they already have it in the world. The biggest mistakes I made in my life were because I was looking for love, I desired to be loved more than anything else in the world and I continued to look for it until Jesus found me and in him I found what I had been looking for all along. If we display that love people will want to know where we get it and they will want what we have. God is love, we love because he first loved us, we are commanded to love, love is a fruit of the spirit and the greatest of them. We even have to love those that are hard to love, we can’t do it in our own strength though we need Jesus to do it.
I would put forth a Biblical antidote for you to consider in light of this article:
Paul wrote:
Php 4:9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me–practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Ask yourself if when people learn, receive, hear and see Christ in you the God of Peace is with them?
John wrote a most famously quoted verse. I want to quote it and then give some insight into it from some other verses similar to it and ask you if you see and understand the problem based on this antidote?
John wrote:
Joh 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Joh 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
The question is how do we live in this anti-God/Christ/Holy Ghost world ruled by the devils, Satan at the helm and not condemn the world but that the world might be saved through the Church/Christ in you, the Hope of Glory?
The answer I proffer is not difficult to understand as you will see, but is very difficult for some to do.
John wrote:
1Jn 3:14 We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.
1Jn 3:15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
1Jn 3:16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
1Jn 3:17 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?
1Jn 3:18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
Now for a little Greek Word study for context.
In 1 John 3:14 the Greek Word for “life” is:
ζωή
zōē
dzo-ay’
From G2198; life (literally or figuratively): – life (-time). Compare G5590.
This same Greek word is used in verse 15.
Now, in verse 16, 1 John 3:16, another Greek Word is used. It is this one:
ψυχή
psuchē
psoo-khay’
From G5594; breath, that is, (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from G4151, which is the rational and immortal soul; and on the other from G2222, which is mere vitality, even of plants: these terms thus exactly correspond respectively to the Hebrew [H5315], [H7307] and [H2416]: – heart (+ -ily), life, mind, soul, + us, + you.
This word is used for the English words, “life” and “lives”.
In verse 17 there is another Greek Word that Translators use and translate into the English word “life”. In this verse and in this ESV translation the English word is “goods”.
The Greek word is:
βίος
bios
bee’-os
A primary word; life, that is, (literally) the present state of existence; by implication the means of livelihood: – good, life, living.
What then is the significance of these Greek Words used in context with John 3:16?
Well, this is the “way” God “so loved the world” through Christ and we ought to love the world in the exact same way!
Jesus is One of Three “Eternal” True Beings, Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Now let’s look at some other verses to help bring clarity to the understanding we True Believers should have when we “love” this world.
When Jesus was observing the wealthy put money into the Treasury according to the Law of Moses, He said they put in from their surplus. They did not put in anything of value according to Christ. However, when a lone poor woman came and put two mites into the Treasury, He noted that she had put in all her “life”/bios and that was of great value to Him and to God Our Heavenly Father and the Holy Ghost.
Mar 12:44 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
So, when we lay down our life/psuche for the world, sometimes we are to give of our life/bios that there will be a demonstration of God’s Love to the world.
More to come later. I have to go to Church.
Well, I’m back from assembling together with other Saints within the community of True Believers I am apart of and what a service! The Pastor preached the Word and the power of God was present freeing up my mind, will and emotions, “my soul”, so that I am reminded that I am alive in Christ today! I need to be reminded of that daily. I die daily now! I am crucified with Christ, as in I have no story of my own to live anymore or tell about. I live for, and exalt through my dying daily, the Life of Christ!
Now, back to where I left off this morning.
When you look at the sign board that one is carrying, presumably expressing he is against Barack Obama, a purported Muslim and pro-abortion, you have to wonder what story he is putting out there, his or God’s?
Also the words on the sign board implies this guy is “Christ/like”, or, an Ohio Christian?
Well, how does that protestor with that sign, a civil right under the Constitutional form of Government the United States is ruled by, accomplish the antidote as I laid it out above?
Well it doesn’t, do it? The guy doesn’t seem very violent. He is standing there with a sign that reads what we read it reads. Is the sign’s words condemning?
Well it seems to me they do, or doesn’t it?
If, when Jesus came into the world to be an example of God’s Love, loving the world, “so loved the world the Way God wants the world loved”, God’s “way”, you should easily understand that the way this guy is “loving” the world isn’t the way God so loved the world.
Well, just how did God “so love the world”? Well 1 John 3:16 makes it clear His Way.
The love of God is demonstrated by one’s “soul” life according to 1 John 3:16.
The easiest way to explain it is to point to another very famous part of Scripture:
Mat 26:36 Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here, while I go over there and pray.”
Mat 26:37 And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled.
Mat 26:38 Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.”
Mat 26:39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”
Now do you see the word “soul” in verse 38?
That is the same word, the same Greek Word John uses in 1 John 3:16:
ψυχή
psuchē
psoo-khay’
From G5594; breath, that is, (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from G4151, which is the rational and immortal soul; and on the other from G2222, which is mere vitality, even of plants: these terms thus exactly correspond respectively to the Hebrew [H5315], [H7307] and [H2416]: – heart (+ -ily), life, mind, soul, + us, + you.
Jesus laid down His “soul” so that our spirit, soul and body might be redeemed from the god of this world, living his way.
Does loving the people of this world mean we have to love the god of this world?
No.
Are we to accept the teachings of this world, the doctrines of demons?
No.
My “soul” also is troubled in this world as it should be.
Why is my soul troubled in this world now? I know I wasn’t troubled before God touched me and joined me to Christ! No, I wasn’t trouble by this world until Christ was formed in me.
In fact, the sorrow and trouble Christ faced was collectively caused by me and you and by all He was sent into this world to die for, the Elect, the Chosen, His Bride, the Wife of the Lamb!
Having a troubled soul in this life/bios does not give me the right to offend anyone, the Jew, the Gentile or the Church.
1Co 10:32 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God,
1Co 10:33 just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.
Now, one final point. I wrote about our “civil rights” in this world. I have been to over 30 nations. The nation, the United States of America, is the only one where we have the kind of freedoms in the area of civil rights. No other country is like the USA when it comes to “civil rights”.
Why do I note that?
Well, back to the Greek words used in Scripture.
Remember the verse I spoke about, the one about the poor woman who gave all her life into the treasury?
Well, that Greek word is:
βίος
bios
bee’-os
A primary word; life, that is, (literally) the present state of existence; by implication the means of livelihood: – good, life, living.
I want to list just three more verses where that Greek word is used for your consideration. [I believe there are 11 verses in all the New Testament where that word is used.]
Why?
Because when you let the full extent of these verses weigh on your “soul” you also will no longer love the world in such a “soulish” manner. I believe and hope you come to understand just “how” God wants the Church to “so love the world”.
The verses then:
1Ti 2:1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,
1Ti 2:2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.
1Ti 2:3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,
1Ti 2:4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Ok, in these verses Paul writes Timothy to pray for “all” men. Well consider verse 2 and the words “quiet life”. That is the Greek word “bios”, the same Greek word Jesus used noting what the poor widow woman put into His Treasury.
Next:
2Ti 2:1 You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus,
2Ti 2:2 and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
2Ti 2:3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
2Ti 2:4 No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.
Here Paul is instructing Timothy “how” Christian soldiers are to live in this world. Look at verse 4. See the words “civilian pursuits”?. Well, go ahead and guess which Greek word is used? “Bios”, same Greek word used by Jesus describing the poor widow woman giving all that she had to God.
Not convinced yet that we shouldn’t protest in this world like the fella in the photo?
My final verses:
1Jn 2:15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1Jn 2:16 For all that is in the world–the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions–is not from the Father but is from the world.
1Jn 2:17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
When you read King James, the phrase is “the pride of life”. Want to venture a guess what Greek word that is?
“Bios”. You guessed it!
My final point is this. We ought to love the world the way God wants the world loved, not the way my soul wants to love the world. Remember Jesus’ prayer?:::> “not my will but Thy Will be done”.
The anger of man does not work the righteousness of God in this world.
Let’s pray for our Civilian leaders of all governments and for all men.
I offer the words of King David as a reflector and a basis for all of our prayers to God:::>
1Ch 16:28 Ascribe to the LORD, O clans of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength!
1Ch 16:29 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him! Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness;
1Ch 16:30 tremble before him, all the earth; yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved.
1Ch 16:31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice, and let them say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!”
1Ch 16:32 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it!
1Ch 16:33 Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy before the LORD, for he comes to judge the earth.
1Ch 16:34 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!
the god of this world does not know how to love and he loves it when we hate the world by loving it the way this guy in the picture is loving the world.
No thanks. I believe we are being called to a much higher standard of love!
What do you think?
Psa 46:4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.
Psa 46:5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psa 46:6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.
Psa 46:7 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
I’m proud to be a Christian, but not at all surprised by the shameful behavior of many Christian organizations. Christians really have no business in the things of this world, and once one enters that gate, then behavior begins to stumble inside.
The Apostle Paul said that ‘falling away’ of the church, had already begun in his own time ( 2 Thessalonians 2: 7). But I think the proper Christian response towards the fall, should be of fervent prayer, and of charity, for those whom are slipping down the abyss. Therefore, one must consider the souls of those led astray, and remember that we too, once walked ungodly, and only by the passion and mercy of Jesus Christ, are we saved.
While I agree that a Christian is mandated by scripture to expose, rebuke or chastize an unruly Christian, the salt must be tempered by love. Should one not then also, offer wisdom by the revelation of scripture? Is it not far easier to just condemn one’s behavior, rather than study the Word with those in error? Would a study such this, also not undress the hearts of all, and return one’s sight to the Master?
The great fall of Christianity began just as soon as the Christian church was born. But, in the 1830’s, the walk of a true believer was shaken by the skill of separation. New Christian denominations, like the Jehovah Witness, Latter Day Saint, Adventist, Charismatic, followed the lead of the Baptist, Methodist, and Evangelicals by introducing new Christian doctrines, to divide the church.
Once an enemy has split the unity of an army, the attack then is directed by subversion. And when the enemy has successfully infiltrated the camp, one can destroy the army, by changing its focus. All organized Christian religions have under gone this very same make over process. Dividing, dividing and dividing gain, until the only thing that remains, is lies and deceits.
If the well intentioned pastors would take the time to expose the ancestry of any given Christian Movement, along with the error of doctrine, then the believer would have a better understanding of true Christianity. But, these pastors would then have to explain that their teaching is a product of a man-made seminary institution. Further, the pastor would also have to claim that the church organization is built by corporate enterprise, and admit that the goal of most church organizations is to entice, indoctrinate and appease the hearts of it’s congregation. No study of doctrine that would offend, or upset the church family will be tolerated, and any discussion of controversial biblical truth, can be shouted down by the preeminence of the minister, and his anointed, man made education.
2 Corinthians 11: 13-15 says that the ministers of satan have transformed themselves into ministers of righteousness. They are in the seminaries, behind the pulpits, and are the financial and political backing of modern Christianity. Should one then be surprised by the lack of love demonstrated by some Christian organizations? An honest view of the American church shows that they are more concerned with tithes, and building construction, than preaching the fundamental command of Jesus Christ as expressed in Matthew 25: 34-46.
Can the Christian faith recover from it’s fall? Yes, but only by individual return to the gospel of Jesus Christ. But don’t expect the modern church to follow. The history of religion is based upon divide, conquer and restore. Therefore, church leadership is actively promoting conflict, from both sides, to formulate a peace within their congregations. As the Apostle Paul concluded in 2 Thessalonians 2: 7, “only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way!”
Few understand, that he has been leaving for many years. And once he is gone, then the practitioners of Christian religious worship, can mold their congregations into the world church of the anti-Christ.
Hence, how does one glorify Jesus Christ? By studying the Word of God, so that our witness will be in love, and our example will uphold the truth. One cannot reach the falling soul, unless one is prepared. Therefore, one should prepare their own heart first, and then allow Jesus Christ to work, by our obedience to truth.
Hi Terra,
I’m glad you visited this site and took the time to read and comment. The article brings up many good points and you brought up a good point as well. You said that you are not a Christian. The point that this article was trying to make is that too many so-called Christians (I can’t judge if they really are or aren’t) are too busy pushing their agendas in the political realm and not spending enough, or any, time taking to task the real mission that Christ set before His true followers: preaching the Gospel of Christ to a lost and dying world. You have admitted that you are in that category. Is that a choice you have made because no one has ever talked to you about the Gospel? Or is it something that you have heard and you have willingly rejected? I only ask because I care first for Christ and obeying His will and secondly I care for the lost and dying and I would love to share the gospel with you if you would like. I pray that God softens your heart to His truth so that your eyes could be opened to see the truth and believe. I don’t normally do this but your post was so short and honest and God laid it on my heart to respond. I care for you and will pray for God’s will to be done. If you respond back to me I will make my email address available and I would love to share the Gospel with you. Don’t take it for granted that you will have a lot of time…”tomorrow is not promised to you”.
In His Grace,
Scott
Job,
I tend to agree with you Job. Like so many movements today which claim to be rooted in the Gospel of Christ, it has little to do with true Christianity.
Terra,
You and your post have been on my mind and heart the past 48 hours… I hope you know or will at least consider that these people who preach hate are not who represents Christ–nor do they represent those who seek every day to follow after Jesus. To the world it may appear that they do…only because their voices are the loudest.
I hope you take Reformed up on his offer to contact him.
There are good loving Christians who leave comments here–any one of them would be more then happy to communicate with you, im sure. You can even reach me through the contact page at the top…
I apologize as a Christian if you and others have been hurt or even angered by those who have misrepresented Jesus, the Gospel, or the Church, by ugliness, hateful words or accusations.
This is not what true Christianity is about.
Its about Jesus…who died for you and me, and for all who will believe. Its about receiving mercy and forgiveness Terra…and receiving eternal life.
Amen reformedone, and amen PJ. These are the hearts of true Christianity. They are not thinking of themselves, nor are they offering their love to gain another member of a church. They simply desire to help another find true peace and love, that will come when one seeks the Lord Jesus Christ. I pray that Terra will find that eternal happiness. Amen
I agree with Dave 2. Perhaps these Christians were brought up in churches that are not preaching the true gospel. I think many are preaching politics today, as well as that which is pleasing to the ears, and I am so shocked. This sort of Christianity reminds me of when Jesus preached about those that only SAID the right things, but inside they were wicked. He likened them to a cup or bowl that was washed clean on the outside only. The inside of the bowl was still filthy. I find it hard to bear that Christ is being used to further these folk’s agendas.
How did Christianity ever get into such a mess? Is it because many of us have become worldly Christians by way of following after worldly pursuits? And is it okay for a Christian to protest, even in an inoffensive manner? I don’t think there is a way to avoid offending at least a few. But even Jesus upbraided cities for their sinfulness. Are we to do the same, or do we stay out of it altogether? I am confused.
This was the comment i read a few days ago, which struck me to the heart…and believe me when i tell you, this one represented MANY in the same vein, which i read on any number of secular news sites.
I will confess, this along with the other comments i came across, plus the articles i quoted from, have depressed me greatly folks…After posting it all i felt sick and have continued to be down in spirit ever since.
I’d like to say its because i browse around reading so much every day–everywhere, and maybe i shouldn’t, but i know that would be a cop-out. I “needed” to read what others were saying…i needed to have my eyes opened to just what this Political Evangelical movement has become…and read how it has affected the spreading of the Gospel here, in the US.
What struck me also were the comments [like those above] could in no way compare to the vile hate filled comments i have been reading on Christian boards and in Christian publicans. And those above did not come from those in the body of Christ!
I was and am appalled…
This 50-something year old man who i quoted asked:
I ask too…where is the outrage? And don’t we have any Christian leaders who will stand up publicly against them?
We should be outraged that Jesus Christ is being represented to a lost Nation by those like Dobson, Strang, Hagee, and the rest of the leaders of this Evangelical Political movement, who have infected a huge part of the body of Christ with their dominionistic political garbage, over the last 30 years.
I love the Lord Jesus so much guys…He saved me from a horrible life of degradation and sin. He washed me with His own blood and made me His own. He gave me hope! And believe me at the time i had none….
I want others to know Him too. Others, regardless of what political affiliation they have, or how far down in the depths of a sinful life they have sunk, to come, to meet the Savior. To be set free–to have hope!
Isn’t that what we all want…isn’t that what we’re suppose to be doing?
How can we do this, when men [and women] who tell the US and the world they represent us and Jesus; and whom we have sit by and allowed to be the ‘loudest voices’ of Christianity in the US for years, have in affect, destroyed the testimony of Christ?
I’m sure it will make me extremely unpopular, but i’m going to speak out against these wolves any chance i get…
Amen PJ! Preach it sister!
I wholeheartedly agree with you. How and what can I do to get this information out and stand up against this “movement” (I agree with Job that is what this is)
I felt a knot in my gut when I read that same quote. How have we stood by and let this happen? Well I for one was sitting in pew, listening to how to improve my credit, don’t drink beer, live your best life now, etc. and get your purpose driven stuff together. Unfortunately I think most folks have been listening to the same mind numbing drivel for years. I just praise God I only heard it for three! I feel sort of shell shocked about all of this. This election has been like somebody threw a grenade of truth into my trench.
How can we, the little guys change things? I have been trying to email and tell people, but that feels small and futile. For the first time I am either not voting or going to write in a candidate ..and I know in God’s eyes that is a start. But I am frustrated as I am sure all of you are too.
I am sorry this is rambling, but I am overwhelmed at this situation.
Good morning brothers and sisters,
I have read the post and I have read the comments posted thus far. Although I sympathize with the frustration and outrage, I have asked the Lord what He would have me to do. I do not claim to be a prophet or to even have the gift of prophecy, but I do feel that the Lord speaks to us through His word and through the prompting of the Spirit I felt that His answer was, “The harvest is STILL plentiful, and the laborers are STILL few.” I feel that what the Lord was saying to me is that above all else we are ambassadors of Christ and His gospel to reach the lost and dying world to true repentance and belief in Christ. I feel that we are to do what we feel convicted to do in the “worldly” realm, whether that’s vote or not vote, send e-mails, participate in rallies. I for one do not put a whole lot of emphasis into these things but I see nothing Biblicly wrong with this in and of itself. Nor would I condemn anyone who does these things in obedience to what the Lord is telling them to do. However, it is always about the heart with God. As Lisa said, men can outwardly say and do the “right” things but their hearts are like filthy tombs. How effective will their message be to testify to the saving grace of the Gospel? They energize those who are like minded in trying to dominate the world with their moral agenda but there is no love in there hearts. Being angry at immoral sin is one thing but trying to dominate people with your idea of what is moral and what is right, against their will, doesn’t make converts for Christ, it only makes ticked off sinners who learn to hate Christ more than they already do, and hate the so-called Christians delivering the message.
This political season has been the raunchiest, most evil display of anti-Christ behavior I have witnessed in my 37 years. Out of the heart is where these people’s words come from. And their words are ugly; so their hearts must be ugly. I don’t know what motivates them but it is obviously something different than what motivates me. I have not decided yet if I will vote this year. And I’m OK with that, despite the fact people have told me it’s my Christian duty to do so. No, I respectfully disagree. It’s my Christian duty to obey my master, and his name is Jesus Christ, not Sarah Palin or Joe the Plumber or Barack Obama!!!! And that takes me back to my word from the Lord; “The harvest is STILLl plentiful, and the laborers are STILL few.”
We, as true followers of Christ, should be concerned with the Gospel of Christ and not the gospel according to the Democrats or Republicans or any other party out there. This election will come and go. We will have a new president soon and the situation will be the same: many lost and dying and hurting people. We need to reach these people with a message of hope and reconciliation. That comes from the Gospel of Christ, not from political speeches or platforms. I do not want to be so quick to judge churches. There are some that have their eyes focused on the true prize and are a wonderful source of unity and fellowship. I just attended one yesterday and it was a JOY! But the point of so many groups and people representing Christ falsely, and the outrage by the true Church, is well taken. I would just pray that before people act, or react, that they ask the Lord to guide their steps in anything they say or do. Knee-jerk, emotional responses can be something that prompt us to speak and then later regret it. We must temper everything we do or say with the Word and heart of God. That is what separates the sheep from the wolves. There should be no fear or sinful anger in the heart of a believer. And if there is, we should ask the Lord to purge it from us BEFORE we speak or act, so that our actions and words will reflect Christ. I love all y’all. Trust God and rest in His will, mercy and grace. This election will not be the end for us, it will be the same goal and tasks as always; we must reach a lost and dying world with the Gospel and that will not change no matter who is our next President. He has not given us a spirit of fear or timidity. Stand strong, believers, and know that God’s got this. Just be willing to obey Him, and Him only!!!!
Peace and Grace,
reformed1inpa
“Where is the outrage from the true Christian community?” Our Christian leaders are the one’s leading the charge with this hate speech, while the “true” Christian community is already being pressed underground, preaching to our own choir, on christian blogs like this! We ruffle too many feathers when we speak out, it might keep Ms. (fill in name here) Ministry from gettin’ her marble toilet seat.
Like Mrs. Bucket says, most Stepford christians sit in thier “best life” pews, go home and feel good. Maybe watch a little football. No need to read our Bible’s, our pastor’s tell us what it says again next week. He’ll probably tell you next week that the Bible says that if you vote a certain way, you’ll be forced to divorce your spouse and become a homosexual, and if you cheat on your new gay lover and get pregnant, you’ll have to carry the baby for 9 months and then abort it. It really has gotten that ridiculous!
Wow! Forgive my negative tone. I get so upset to think that these people with all of their hate are the public face of the “American Christian”. There is no excuse for not reading your Bible, for not understanding the loving heart and nature of God. I have found that in these last days, the only truth I am exposed to any longer is what is written in my Bible. That’s it. It is the only truth and the only hope. It tears my heart out to think of all of the American “Christians” who have no idea what is actually written in the word of God. And God forgive our Christian leaders who know what it says, but who stand on their pulpits and preach the opposite.
Consider the simple farmer. On the first day, tenderly, he breaks the ground in an even and perfect fashion. Softly, he lays the seed, and gently covers each with a hand of protection. The farmer smiles, and says aloud, “Oh what joy will come in the spring, when I can see the fruit of my labor. In that day, will I be glorified!”
But on the second day, at first light, the ravenous birds come to steal the seed, and to take away the labor of the farmer. Wisely, the farmer chases the birds into another field, where lay corrupt seed, and allows the birds to feast upon seeds without life. The farmer says to the birds: “My seed, the seed that I plant of my hands, are mine forever, and none shall perish from me!”
On the third day, an unforgiving sun scorched the land, and drought overcame the field. But the good farmer brings the cool refreshing spring, to moisten his seed, and preserve the growth of his work. “The water that I bring shall sustain my seed, and the heat of the sun will not last!”
The fourth day saw the rain, and mighty floods over flowed and passed through the land, as the farmer stood by his field. “ Ah”, he says: “ for I have indeed chosen wisely. I have placed the field above the waters, and have dug the rivulets to keep my field from falling away!”
The winds came, and the ground began to freeze on the fifth day, but the farmer came and saw that his field was warmed by his lamps. As the bitter cold swept by, the farmer spoke to his field, and said: “ Fear not this day, for I have given you roots to withstand the wind and the rain, and now I have come to give you the strength, to withstand the frozen night!”
The farmer arose early on day six, and when he came to the field, he saw the green haze of life breaking through the land. “Now” he says, “ My children have found the light, and are growing with a sweet scent, and the flower of their birth, is pleasing to mine eyes!”
On the seventh day, the host from round about, came to see the land, and marveled before the garden, saying: “what manner of beauty do our eyes see. For in this garden, grows the life of all fruits, and they do feed our hearts with much joy!”
The farmer smiled and said, “My seed are the most fragile, of all things in creation. But when the birds came, they trusted my hand to save them. When the heat of the day made them dry, they knew that I would come, and quench their thirst. And on the day of the flood, I had already provided for them a sanctuary, and they praised my name. When the winds of this world, and the coldness of hearts froze their ground, they trusted in me, and I answered. And when they began to grow in my soil, I nourished them to the fruit of my choosing, and they are happy in the colors of their flower!”
Finally the farmer said: “ This is my garden for all to see. I am glorified by the trust of my seed, who love me!”
Perhaps, this is a poor allegory of what I’d like to say, but PJ, never stop being the seed that you are. Lucy, your growth is in His hands, and your fruit is where he planted it. Reformedone, I love your faith in Him, and know that you are His seed to grow in the place He chose. Mrs. Bucket, like all of us, we all form a small part of His great garden, but each of us is vitally essential, to provide the beauty of the whole.
I praise the Lord for His church, and am not ashamed of the seeds, the Lord has planted, and like PJ, I will not stop warning against the false church, nor will I cease from encouraging others, to seek the Lord Jesus Christ.
For Terra, please understand, all of us are but fragile seeds, whose works cannot satisfy the heart of God. Therefore, we must depend upon His work, in order to live.
And Kari, you are right. The Bible is the only answer to anything. I would encourage you to take what the Lord has taught you, and reach out to those whom are dependent upon their church, instead of Jesus Christ. Because this, in simple terms, is why are churches have fallen. We allow it, by our silence. God be with You.
Dave2,
Thanks so much for sharing that refreshing and encouraging allegory. I though it most effective and appropriate. Thanks for the encouragement and admonition. THAT is what I LOVE about Christ’s TRUE church. It is filled with His love, for Him and for our family. I may never meet some of my brothers and sisters this side of glory, but I feel that I know you and cherish you and love you, all because we share the Love that He first showed to us!!! Amen!! That was a wonderful post Dave, and thanks again for writing it!
Dave2,
That is one of the most beautiful things I have ever read, I was moved to tears, thankyou my brother in Christ, for your obedience and encouragement of others. I can’t speak for the others but I really needed to read just what you wrote. God bless you!
Thank you Dave2, God bless you brother that was beautiful. It really encourages me to read what everyone writes from your heart. Even when I am down, frustrated and the day has been very long, I can log on here and get encouragement even in the darkest of discussions.
Thank you Jesus for your precious seeds.
LOL, believe me i understand Kari….
I was so upset over this stuff i didn’t even have the heart to post much for a few days…All i wanted to do was weep.
Praise the Lord Reformed! I believe that is a true word from the Lord, not only to us here but to the Church period!
I sure sensed it in my own spirit as i read your post.
Thank you Lord for giving this word of admonition to your son Reformed to share with us.
Dave2 it is a PERFECT allegory! Do you realize how it fits together amazingly with what the Lord showed Reformed?!
Your allegory is a confirmation from the Lord…i really believe that.
Thank you soooooo much for obeying the Spirit of God and sharing it.
Thank you ALL, guys….
You all have lifted my spirit so much tonight by reading your replies/comments.
Pray for me and Terra, family. Pray for me that I would effectively communicate the Gospel to Terra. Pray for Terra that she would be open to receiving it. I have acquired her e-mail address and will be getting some verses in order and then them to her. I pray that those seeds will fall on fertile soil that will some day bear beautiful fruit to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Father God I pray in Jesus name that our dear brother reformed1inpa will be graced with your wisdom, your mercy and understanding. Please give him strength and trust in you and your word. Lord we value him as our brother, and we know and lean on your protection and blessings promised to to him in your holy word. Please Lord we lift him up in prayer as he reaches out to this young woman Terra with your gospel of salvation and redemption. Lord be with him and guide him in your word today. Lord give him confidence and may your praises fill his lips and heart as he ministers to her. Lord we pray in your mighty name that Terra would be receptive and have a soft heart towards you and your precious gift of your only son. Lord we thank you for your blessings and mercy today and we thank you for the fellowship we have here with each other. We thank you for PJ and all the hard work she does. Lord keep her healthy and strong. Encourage her and lift her spirits today. We give you all the praise, all the glory and all the honor above all things. In Jesus amazing, mighty precious name we say a hearty AMEN!
Guys and gals,
I was just looking at the hate filled photo at the top of this post that started it all.
Wow it seems at the end of this thing the Holy Spirit has hijacked the post.
How great is our God!
Father, I just pray that you will be with Scott as he tells Terra of your amazing grace. I pray that you will just speak through him and use him for your glory. I pray that you will reveal to Terra your truth and your love for her. We know it is your spirit that reveals truth and that no man can come to you without you revealing yourself to them. I just ask that your will be done and that you will bring another one of your children home. In your precious, holy name…the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit…Amen.
I love you guys
youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xi0yLRX4d2M&hl=en&fs=1