It is not a secret that in Phoenix Arizona it has become a little cold and wet. As I drive the street I can not ignore those who are walking around with large bags and some with baskets indicating their homelessness. It always make me wonder what made people come to the place they were at in the first place. Was it drugs, alcohol, divorce or some tragedy that has occurred to them. I know that in Phoenix there are programs and shelters that not only house but help those who are homeless get off the street. Sometimes I wonder if maybe those who are walking the streets have already tried so many time to get off that they just quit and accepted their transit living. Which brings me to the subject of this blog: What is the Christians role when seeing people like this walking the street? I get so guilty sometimes because I think that it is my responsibility to at least offer someone walking the street like that some shelter. Then I think of why are they not in a shelter or existing program already? I know that my family and the ministry supports programs like OCJ Kids which deals with Orphans, The Dream Center which has rescue missions, along side ministries and many others. So then why are these people not utilizing such resources. I know that in our fellowship when a family becomes homeless due to job or other situations my wife and I open our doors and home to them. We have had various families come in and out of our lives because of reasons like this. I believe this is where the Christian must shine through. No Christian family belonging to the Church of God should go homeless. Sometimess we get calls from families asking us for resources. One of the first questions I ask is do they belong to a fellowship or congregation. It is so surprising home almost 9 out of 10 say, "NO". When I ask them why not? There is always some reason they chose not to belong but have chose rather to ask from one. We have helped people like this also encouraging them to be part of a Christian Family.
Now back to those who are not. It is the Christian Fellowship or Congregation call to support local programs that help the homeless, the orphan and the widow. By doing this the burden is carried by the whole Christian Faith rather than the dependency or burden of just one. When a person on the street in encountered it is easy to direct someone to such a program. If they chose not to take the opportunity ones hands are clean. In order for our directing one to such a Homeless Mission it is important that we do not just give the burdens but help carry them. I thank God that our Mission helps and does just that and I can only pray that yours does likewise. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Pastor Michael Salman
Showing posts with label Harvest Christian Fellowship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Harvest Christian Fellowship. Show all posts
Monday, December 12, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Update On Federal Case
This is an update of where we are in reference to our lawsuit against the City of Phoenix and there prosecution against home worship, home bible studies, home groups and other religious house groups. This case is more than an issue of freeing me from going to jail for what I have done. Rather this case is about the rights that Christians and other religious groups should have when meeting in a private setting. Especially in ones home.
The City of Phoenix has under sworn testimony stated that religious groups specifically bible studies in a home even if 30 minutes per week are required to have a permit and conform their property under commercial standards. That means ALL churches and religious meetings if done in a home are required to abide under commerical standards. A occupancy or B occupancy guidliness. In the meantime, other groups "secular" in nature are not required to do that. Such as Neighborhood Block Watch, Boy Scouts, Political Hostings (Which are currently going on today) and other secular meetings are not required to abide under these rules. So Religious NO Secular YES. There is a problem with this. It is evident that under such sworn guideliness and testimony by building inspectors and supervisors there is going to be no problem winning a lawsuit. The only problem is PROTOCOL.
On October 10th, 2011 the Judge dismissed the lawsuit claiming that since we are still fighting this in the State Forum it is premature to bring it to the Federal Forum. Even though at first we were a little upset we believe that it is a good thing this happened. It would be a tragedy to go through the lawsuit and win only to have it overturned in the Appeal Process. This has saved us a lot of money. Thank you Jesus. So now we are going to exhaust the State Court and if the City still proceeds to discriminate against private religious meetings we will refile the lawsuit again and make sure our rights along with other rights are protected.
Meanwhile Suzanne and I will be going to court for our Bible Board in the front on Monday. The Bible Board quotes scripture to passerbys. The City of Phoenix is claiming that such signs require a permit. We say they do not require such permits. As a matter of fact if you have driven in our City lately you will find 4 x 8 signs lining our streets and yards. VOTE GULLETT FOR MAYOR and such. According to the City of Phoenix these signs do not require a permit. Only the permission of the property owner. So why do signs that have religious messages required to have a permit while political signs are not. This again is discrimination. If Suzanne loses the appeal we will exhaust the State immedietly and file a lawsuit challenging the Sign Ordinance to protect religious and noncommercial speech on private property. This will be a lawsuit seperate from the Private Worship.
Seperating the lawsuits and making them 2 instead as combined 1 will allow us to make sure our rights are defended and that our demands are clear. We continue to pray for the Leadership of our City and continue to pray that religious speech and assemblies are protected.
In Jesus Name,
Pastor Michael Salman
The City of Phoenix has under sworn testimony stated that religious groups specifically bible studies in a home even if 30 minutes per week are required to have a permit and conform their property under commercial standards. That means ALL churches and religious meetings if done in a home are required to abide under commerical standards. A occupancy or B occupancy guidliness. In the meantime, other groups "secular" in nature are not required to do that. Such as Neighborhood Block Watch, Boy Scouts, Political Hostings (Which are currently going on today) and other secular meetings are not required to abide under these rules. So Religious NO Secular YES. There is a problem with this. It is evident that under such sworn guideliness and testimony by building inspectors and supervisors there is going to be no problem winning a lawsuit. The only problem is PROTOCOL.
On October 10th, 2011 the Judge dismissed the lawsuit claiming that since we are still fighting this in the State Forum it is premature to bring it to the Federal Forum. Even though at first we were a little upset we believe that it is a good thing this happened. It would be a tragedy to go through the lawsuit and win only to have it overturned in the Appeal Process. This has saved us a lot of money. Thank you Jesus. So now we are going to exhaust the State Court and if the City still proceeds to discriminate against private religious meetings we will refile the lawsuit again and make sure our rights along with other rights are protected.
Meanwhile Suzanne and I will be going to court for our Bible Board in the front on Monday. The Bible Board quotes scripture to passerbys. The City of Phoenix is claiming that such signs require a permit. We say they do not require such permits. As a matter of fact if you have driven in our City lately you will find 4 x 8 signs lining our streets and yards. VOTE GULLETT FOR MAYOR and such. According to the City of Phoenix these signs do not require a permit. Only the permission of the property owner. So why do signs that have religious messages required to have a permit while political signs are not. This again is discrimination. If Suzanne loses the appeal we will exhaust the State immedietly and file a lawsuit challenging the Sign Ordinance to protect religious and noncommercial speech on private property. This will be a lawsuit seperate from the Private Worship.
Seperating the lawsuits and making them 2 instead as combined 1 will allow us to make sure our rights are defended and that our demands are clear. We continue to pray for the Leadership of our City and continue to pray that religious speech and assemblies are protected.
In Jesus Name,
Pastor Michael Salman
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
SHORT STORY - THE RIGHT THING!
THE RIGHT THING
Born in New York in a Suburb called Yonkers my friends were always those who enjoyed playing outside in the cold of winter. Our greatest sport was kick ball. We always used the spongy one. Our street was not the widest in New York and we knew that if that ever hit any car it would not break any windshields or dent any doors or hoods. We only had to worry about Tiny. Tiny was really not tiny he was big but we called him Tiny. He was 12 years old and weighed a close 250 lbs and stood 5’9. His family was Italian so we knew that his mother fed him well. You see there was that time Tiny was running for a pop up that was kicked and let’s just say that when Tiny hit the side of Mrs. Morthers brand new Cadillac is was not a pretty sight. The Cadillac lost. Everyone ran except for me and Kenny. We just stared at the Cadillac. Even Tiny got up and ran, well more like wobbled away. The next thing I felt was Mrs. Morther dishwashing cold wet hands pinching my ears and her screeching voice saying, “You know who did this?” Of course I did not want to be a rat so I denied it the best I could.
My dad was a hard worker. Most days my dad would leave in the morning usually before we woke up and would return at night right before we went to bed. He was a man of integrity. We were raised in a religious home with pictures of Jesus on our walls and the cross in all our bedrooms. Every Sunday we would go to church and my father would not allow us to sit in the service but always volunteered us to do something. Whether it was Sunday School, serving or handing out bulletins we were always told that Christians are those who serve and are people of action not reaction. I never really knew what that meant until I got older. So there I was in front of the man who ran our home and taught us the good principles of the bible staring me in the eyes.
“I know how you feel son. Being a rat is not something someone wants to be. “ he calmly spoke those words to me. I could not help but tear. “Now let me ask you this” he said, “did you do it?” I slowly nodded my head “no.” He then asked “do you know who did it?” Slowly with tears running down my 11 year old face whispered, “yessss..” My dad then held my shoulder as of assuring me that it was o.k. but wanted me to understand something. He took a deep breathe and said, “Son, even though you did not do it, but you knew who did and was not willing to tell, it was only right that we pay for the damages.” I immediately said, “That was not fair.” My dad then told me a story in the bible that relates to God’s mercy and judgment.
David was a man of God who loved God a lot. He was attracted to a woman but the problem is the woman was another mans wife. He did not care but instead took her to his house and she turned out to be pregnant. To make the matter worse David had no choice but to kill her husband to hide the affair. David thought he got away but God knew. You see God told David that he had done an evil thing but that God knew deep inside David loved God but was weak and did wrong. David begged for God’s forgiveness and God forgave David. God then said that just because David was forgiven he would have to pay for the consequences of His sin. This consequence was that the baby would die and that the sword will not depart from the house of David. Just because we receive God’s forgiveness does not mean we immediately live without the consequences of our sins.
My Dad then explained to me that the consequence of me knowing and yet not telling is that we pay for the damages. So sure we keep what we think is right but we ultimately pay for it elsewhere. My dad ultimately paid for the repairs himself. Kenny was not going to tell either but Kenny’s dad was not like my dad. So Kenny’s dad did not offer anything. When the news spread through the neighborhood that my dad paid for the repairs even though it was not his sons fault, Tiny confessed to his dad. Tiny’s dad was very apologetic. Tiny’s dad owned a small fruit cart in the neighborhood. He could not pay back my dad all at once but between the free fruit and payments all was finally made well and right.
*THIS STORY IS COPYRIGHT.
Born in New York in a Suburb called Yonkers my friends were always those who enjoyed playing outside in the cold of winter. Our greatest sport was kick ball. We always used the spongy one. Our street was not the widest in New York and we knew that if that ever hit any car it would not break any windshields or dent any doors or hoods. We only had to worry about Tiny. Tiny was really not tiny he was big but we called him Tiny. He was 12 years old and weighed a close 250 lbs and stood 5’9. His family was Italian so we knew that his mother fed him well. You see there was that time Tiny was running for a pop up that was kicked and let’s just say that when Tiny hit the side of Mrs. Morthers brand new Cadillac is was not a pretty sight. The Cadillac lost. Everyone ran except for me and Kenny. We just stared at the Cadillac. Even Tiny got up and ran, well more like wobbled away. The next thing I felt was Mrs. Morther dishwashing cold wet hands pinching my ears and her screeching voice saying, “You know who did this?” Of course I did not want to be a rat so I denied it the best I could.
My dad was a hard worker. Most days my dad would leave in the morning usually before we woke up and would return at night right before we went to bed. He was a man of integrity. We were raised in a religious home with pictures of Jesus on our walls and the cross in all our bedrooms. Every Sunday we would go to church and my father would not allow us to sit in the service but always volunteered us to do something. Whether it was Sunday School, serving or handing out bulletins we were always told that Christians are those who serve and are people of action not reaction. I never really knew what that meant until I got older. So there I was in front of the man who ran our home and taught us the good principles of the bible staring me in the eyes.
“I know how you feel son. Being a rat is not something someone wants to be. “ he calmly spoke those words to me. I could not help but tear. “Now let me ask you this” he said, “did you do it?” I slowly nodded my head “no.” He then asked “do you know who did it?” Slowly with tears running down my 11 year old face whispered, “yessss..” My dad then held my shoulder as of assuring me that it was o.k. but wanted me to understand something. He took a deep breathe and said, “Son, even though you did not do it, but you knew who did and was not willing to tell, it was only right that we pay for the damages.” I immediately said, “That was not fair.” My dad then told me a story in the bible that relates to God’s mercy and judgment.
David was a man of God who loved God a lot. He was attracted to a woman but the problem is the woman was another mans wife. He did not care but instead took her to his house and she turned out to be pregnant. To make the matter worse David had no choice but to kill her husband to hide the affair. David thought he got away but God knew. You see God told David that he had done an evil thing but that God knew deep inside David loved God but was weak and did wrong. David begged for God’s forgiveness and God forgave David. God then said that just because David was forgiven he would have to pay for the consequences of His sin. This consequence was that the baby would die and that the sword will not depart from the house of David. Just because we receive God’s forgiveness does not mean we immediately live without the consequences of our sins.
My Dad then explained to me that the consequence of me knowing and yet not telling is that we pay for the damages. So sure we keep what we think is right but we ultimately pay for it elsewhere. My dad ultimately paid for the repairs himself. Kenny was not going to tell either but Kenny’s dad was not like my dad. So Kenny’s dad did not offer anything. When the news spread through the neighborhood that my dad paid for the repairs even though it was not his sons fault, Tiny confessed to his dad. Tiny’s dad was very apologetic. Tiny’s dad owned a small fruit cart in the neighborhood. He could not pay back my dad all at once but between the free fruit and payments all was finally made well and right.
*THIS STORY IS COPYRIGHT.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
WHEN THEY SAY YOUR WRONG!!
1 Peter 2:12 and maintain good conduct among the non-Christians, so that though they now malign you as wrongdoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God when he appears.
As a Christian and especially one that is on the front line of teh Christian Faith it is easy to find myself in the line of fire. People calling me a wrongdoer, holy roller, Jesus Freak, hypocrite and such. The bible never promises that those who live for Christ will be loved by everyone. As a matter of fact it is quite the opposite. A person who lives for Christ and follows His ways find themselves on the other end of the pole. Think of all the prophets and ministers who have ever lived before us. How were they treated and why? Do we see thuis now? No! Rather we have Christians who are loved by everyone. I mean everyone. Rick Warren, Joel Osteen and such are popular among the secular. Is there something they are doing right or is there something they are doing wrong? If the bible says that those who live Godly will suffer persecution and Jesus himself states that we will be persecuted and hated for His name sake, but instead you are loved, someone is telling lies. I can assure you it is not Jesus.
No matter what people say about you or to you remember this, at the end the promise is they will glorify God when he returns. We can only pray it is not too late for them.
In Jesus Name!
As a Christian and especially one that is on the front line of teh Christian Faith it is easy to find myself in the line of fire. People calling me a wrongdoer, holy roller, Jesus Freak, hypocrite and such. The bible never promises that those who live for Christ will be loved by everyone. As a matter of fact it is quite the opposite. A person who lives for Christ and follows His ways find themselves on the other end of the pole. Think of all the prophets and ministers who have ever lived before us. How were they treated and why? Do we see thuis now? No! Rather we have Christians who are loved by everyone. I mean everyone. Rick Warren, Joel Osteen and such are popular among the secular. Is there something they are doing right or is there something they are doing wrong? If the bible says that those who live Godly will suffer persecution and Jesus himself states that we will be persecuted and hated for His name sake, but instead you are loved, someone is telling lies. I can assure you it is not Jesus.
No matter what people say about you or to you remember this, at the end the promise is they will glorify God when he returns. We can only pray it is not too late for them.
In Jesus Name!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
The Devil Made Me Do It!
Are people naturally evil? I love a story the late Adrian Rogers said. It is about a boy who was hitting his sister with a broom stick and calling her names. His mother stopped him and said what has gotten into you. The devil must have made you do it. The boy answered, "The devil made me hit her with a stick and call her names but the spitting at her, that was my idea."
So many people claim themselves to be good people. They care for their community, mother nature, they recycle, they love their neighbors, they donate to charities and so forth, but when it comes to God's people and God they are hostile. The fact is people are evil naturally. Even Jesus declared that the world is condemned already. It is not that he came to condemn the world but to save it.
At a meeting I was at a lady in the audience asked me about the battle I was having with the City of Phoenix. I answered that as an American I have the right to protect my rights and the rights of all those who want to practice their faith. The lady commented that even though I was fighting the fight I should stop worshipping at my home. I stated that I was not doing anything illegal and that is why I am fighting this and I will not stop because it is my right as an American. When asked why I filed suit against a Police Officer, I stated that the Police Officer falsified information and tried to create a prejudicy against me that may cause harm. This same lady responded with, "Well, you probably deserved it or else he would not have done it."
Hypocrisy and double standards are at the core of humanity. We call good evil and evil good. We can blame all of the problems of society on the devil but as Adrian Rogers said and I approve, there is enough evil in the heart of man that there is no need for the devil.
I leave you with one more funny story. A man stood before God being judged. The man began to explain to God that all the evil he did was due to the devil. In which the devil in his defense replied, "I did not know anyone can do such evil, until I saw the what man has done. They taught me."
So many people claim themselves to be good people. They care for their community, mother nature, they recycle, they love their neighbors, they donate to charities and so forth, but when it comes to God's people and God they are hostile. The fact is people are evil naturally. Even Jesus declared that the world is condemned already. It is not that he came to condemn the world but to save it.
At a meeting I was at a lady in the audience asked me about the battle I was having with the City of Phoenix. I answered that as an American I have the right to protect my rights and the rights of all those who want to practice their faith. The lady commented that even though I was fighting the fight I should stop worshipping at my home. I stated that I was not doing anything illegal and that is why I am fighting this and I will not stop because it is my right as an American. When asked why I filed suit against a Police Officer, I stated that the Police Officer falsified information and tried to create a prejudicy against me that may cause harm. This same lady responded with, "Well, you probably deserved it or else he would not have done it."
Hypocrisy and double standards are at the core of humanity. We call good evil and evil good. We can blame all of the problems of society on the devil but as Adrian Rogers said and I approve, there is enough evil in the heart of man that there is no need for the devil.
I leave you with one more funny story. A man stood before God being judged. The man began to explain to God that all the evil he did was due to the devil. In which the devil in his defense replied, "I did not know anyone can do such evil, until I saw the what man has done. They taught me."
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Have we become Communists....
Psalms 2:1-3 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? (2) The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, (3) Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
These days we are seeing a shift of the balance. That which was considered sacred in God has become the sacredness of the courtroom. What has occurred in the past 10 years that has made this America become so hostile to religious excercise and worship? People now look at the clegry and ministers of the Gospels as enemies to the State and the neighborhood. That which was once so welcomed, admired and respected in communities has become a soreness to the eyes of the people. The people who once protected the consitution and the freedom of religion are now fighting against it. They yell, "NO MOSQUE!!!" "NO TEMPLES!!!" "NO CHURCHES!!!" "NO CHRISTIANITY!!!" and eventually they are yelling and will yell, "NO GOD!!" Those who have a desire and zeal for their faith are not finding comfort in the leaders in which they have entrusted to protect their rights but are rather now fighting against them and bringing them to court. The leaders that God has placed in office are playing politics rather than standing up for what is right.
I assure you the sins of those who do such things will destroy them. They who yell and fight against God will find that their lives and the lives of their children are now damned and at stake. It reminds me of those who wanted to Crucify Christ. They also thought that they were doing the right thing so it went:
Matthew 27:24-25 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. (25) Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
AND SO IT WAS AND SO IT WILL BE TO THE REST.
These days we are seeing a shift of the balance. That which was considered sacred in God has become the sacredness of the courtroom. What has occurred in the past 10 years that has made this America become so hostile to religious excercise and worship? People now look at the clegry and ministers of the Gospels as enemies to the State and the neighborhood. That which was once so welcomed, admired and respected in communities has become a soreness to the eyes of the people. The people who once protected the consitution and the freedom of religion are now fighting against it. They yell, "NO MOSQUE!!!" "NO TEMPLES!!!" "NO CHURCHES!!!" "NO CHRISTIANITY!!!" and eventually they are yelling and will yell, "NO GOD!!" Those who have a desire and zeal for their faith are not finding comfort in the leaders in which they have entrusted to protect their rights but are rather now fighting against them and bringing them to court. The leaders that God has placed in office are playing politics rather than standing up for what is right.
I assure you the sins of those who do such things will destroy them. They who yell and fight against God will find that their lives and the lives of their children are now damned and at stake. It reminds me of those who wanted to Crucify Christ. They also thought that they were doing the right thing so it went:
Matthew 27:24-25 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. (25) Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
AND SO IT WAS AND SO IT WILL BE TO THE REST.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Did man make Up God??
Have you ever heard of the idea that God is a man-made concept? There are people in America and around the world that believe that Man for their own comfort came up with the concept of God. Maybe you are reading this and maybe you believe this concept.
This morning I was reading Romans chapter 4 in the bible. In this chapter the word of God declares that Abraham became a friend of God by faith before circumcision. As I continued to read I thought to myself, "Out of all the signs that God can give why Circumcision?" It was as the Holy Spirit spoke and said, "This is proof that man did not make me up." When we go back to the Old Testament story God tells Abraham to circumcise himself and all the males as a sign of the covenant.
You see, man would have no problem cutting a finger, shaving the head, maybe even losing a toe, but it truly takes a belief that there is a God when you start messing around with the privates. You can smile that is fine... If I made up God, being a man that would be the last thing I would even think of doing. Yet, Abraham and all did what God told them to do. Circumcision then truly is a sign. A sign that is private between God and the person (NO PUN INTENDED) and a sign to all humanity that God is real and not man made.
Today, god looks for a different circumcision. The circumcision that God is looking for today is the removal of the flesh and its lust from our heart.
Romans 2:28-29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: (29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
May the Lord bless you today as you remember the Love He has for those who call on His name.
In Jesus name.
This morning I was reading Romans chapter 4 in the bible. In this chapter the word of God declares that Abraham became a friend of God by faith before circumcision. As I continued to read I thought to myself, "Out of all the signs that God can give why Circumcision?" It was as the Holy Spirit spoke and said, "This is proof that man did not make me up." When we go back to the Old Testament story God tells Abraham to circumcise himself and all the males as a sign of the covenant.
You see, man would have no problem cutting a finger, shaving the head, maybe even losing a toe, but it truly takes a belief that there is a God when you start messing around with the privates. You can smile that is fine... If I made up God, being a man that would be the last thing I would even think of doing. Yet, Abraham and all did what God told them to do. Circumcision then truly is a sign. A sign that is private between God and the person (NO PUN INTENDED) and a sign to all humanity that God is real and not man made.
Today, god looks for a different circumcision. The circumcision that God is looking for today is the removal of the flesh and its lust from our heart.
Romans 2:28-29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: (29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
May the Lord bless you today as you remember the Love He has for those who call on His name.
In Jesus name.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
REMEMBER THE ORPHANS...
As some of you know the orphans have been a dear thing to my heart. Every year we have gathered family and friends and donated clothes, toys and money and given to the orphanages in Arizona. This past week, glory to God a door has been open for us. There are orphanages right here in the city right under our noses. They are orphanages that take care of children who have been abondanded after drug raids, or such. This is a call to all of us to step up to the plate and help. We need to put our resources together and support and sponsor a couple of these homes. Together we can reach and touch children and their hearts. We are the Body of Christ a people called to do the work of Jesus Christ. Let us gather and not only be people of words but people of action.
In Jesus Name,
Pastor Michael Salman
In Jesus Name,
Pastor Michael Salman
David Wilkerson - A Man of God!!
To all those who are in the faith. It is a sad day for the earthly kigdom of God as a giant in the faith has left this earth. David Wilkerson known for preaching the gospel in boldness to the gangs in New York and starting the Times Square Church has passed away in a tragic car accident. I remember coming to Christ and reading his book the Cross and the Switchblade and being so inspired. I also remember Nicky Cruz's book Run Nicky Run and how he spoke of the preaching of David and his life. As I get older I can only wish and pray that I can fit the shoes of these men who has passed on. May the Lord continue to give me the boldness to speak and preach the gospel to the Lost.
In Jesus Name!!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/28/david-wilkerson-evangelic_n_855164.html
In Jesus Name!!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/28/david-wilkerson-evangelic_n_855164.html
Monday, April 25, 2011
Persecuted...
Have you ever been persecuted for Jesus Christ? Many people will claim that this has never happened to them especially in America.
2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
1 Peter 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
These scriptures give me comfort. To suffer as a Christian is a blessing of the Lord. Before I came to Christ I would get into trouble and I deserved it because I was a criminal. But God through His grace delivered me and showed me how to live for Him. Now in the eyes of some I am a criminal but this time I am a criminal for Jesus. Suffering for Jesus is a blessing. Even though I always thought it could not and should not happen in our Country I have found out it happens a lot. The fortunate part of our country is that we have the ability to fight back through the court systems.
In other countries there is no recourse. Rather they are criminals because they serve Jesus in underground churches. You know, it makes me wonder what people who are persecuting me think of those Christian underground churches. I mean I have had Christians comment on blogs and news articles that they can not believe that I as a Christian and a Pastor is breaking the law. I mean what kind of Christian breaks the law?? I must be a fake or a cult or something like that.
This past Friday I was watching the Passion of the Christ. That movie makes me cry all the time. It never fails. Nonetheless, there is a part in there that resonate even in the Holy Scripture.
John 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
I can truly say that the world hates me because of Jesus. You see the world does not hate me because I cause traffic, or park on their lawn or cause excessive noise or even push my beliefs in their face or because every time I see them I call them sinners damned to hell. I do not do any of that. The only reason the world hates me is because I and a group of other Christians believers in Christ gather at my home on a weekly basis and worship Jesus Christ. For that my family are persecuted and hated. I am called a devil, false, money grubber, or whatever they may call me. Jesus knows my heart. So I remember these words.
Matthew 10:24-25 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. (25) It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?
They called Jesus Beelzebub for healing the blind, raising the dead, preaching the truth, casting out demons and giving us eternal life. What do you think they will call us? At the end of it all Jesus rose from the dead while those who spoke such blasphemies and crucified our Lord were sent to await damnation. So it is in our life, God will in His time have the last word. Until then, Anathema Maranatha!
2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
1 Peter 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
These scriptures give me comfort. To suffer as a Christian is a blessing of the Lord. Before I came to Christ I would get into trouble and I deserved it because I was a criminal. But God through His grace delivered me and showed me how to live for Him. Now in the eyes of some I am a criminal but this time I am a criminal for Jesus. Suffering for Jesus is a blessing. Even though I always thought it could not and should not happen in our Country I have found out it happens a lot. The fortunate part of our country is that we have the ability to fight back through the court systems.
In other countries there is no recourse. Rather they are criminals because they serve Jesus in underground churches. You know, it makes me wonder what people who are persecuting me think of those Christian underground churches. I mean I have had Christians comment on blogs and news articles that they can not believe that I as a Christian and a Pastor is breaking the law. I mean what kind of Christian breaks the law?? I must be a fake or a cult or something like that.
This past Friday I was watching the Passion of the Christ. That movie makes me cry all the time. It never fails. Nonetheless, there is a part in there that resonate even in the Holy Scripture.
John 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
I can truly say that the world hates me because of Jesus. You see the world does not hate me because I cause traffic, or park on their lawn or cause excessive noise or even push my beliefs in their face or because every time I see them I call them sinners damned to hell. I do not do any of that. The only reason the world hates me is because I and a group of other Christians believers in Christ gather at my home on a weekly basis and worship Jesus Christ. For that my family are persecuted and hated. I am called a devil, false, money grubber, or whatever they may call me. Jesus knows my heart. So I remember these words.
Matthew 10:24-25 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. (25) It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?
They called Jesus Beelzebub for healing the blind, raising the dead, preaching the truth, casting out demons and giving us eternal life. What do you think they will call us? At the end of it all Jesus rose from the dead while those who spoke such blasphemies and crucified our Lord were sent to await damnation. So it is in our life, God will in His time have the last word. Until then, Anathema Maranatha!
Friday, April 8, 2011
The Modern Thinker
For the past couple of weeks I have been speaking with a guy to open the subject of the Bible. So the other day I finally sprung the question.
HERE IS THE CONVERSATION
I said to him, "So I see you like to read? Yes. Have you ever read the Bible? No, but I have a few copies of it. Why have you not read it? Because the bible has changed over the years. Really, like in what way? Well from the first bible to what we have now, there are different transalations. (since he was reading a book called ARAGON I thought I would say this to him.) So do you think they have the book ARAGON in different translations? Yes. Well it looks like it has not preventing you from reading it. No. Alright so tell me why do you believe the bible changed? I don't know. Even though some words have change the message of the bible has not, man is a sinner and in need of a saviour and Jesus Christ died for the sins of mankind.
By that time we spoke a little more and then he left. He returned today so I asked him if he found the evidence of the Bible changing. He replied no but he did not want to discuss the bible anymore because he just can't believe it and then ran off to his bus. I am sure he would not have come in, in the first place but the food is so irresistable. LOL
You know it is always easier to believe in something you don't know rather than knowing why you don't believe in something you don't know. I know why I am not a muslim, buddist, hinduist or such like and I can only think that these people know why they are not a Christian. There are a lot of Christians who believe in Jesus and do not know why? So we have a bunch of people who really do not know what it means to be a Christian. The reason is not that Jesus has not revelaed himself, it is because people like that guy would rather live not knowing or wanting to know. It is easier that way.
Folks the only way people are going to understand jesus or not understand Jesus is if they open the Bible. Without the Bible we only have blind faith in whatever you believe in. Jesus came to open the eyes of the blind not close them.
HERE IS THE CONVERSATION
I said to him, "So I see you like to read? Yes. Have you ever read the Bible? No, but I have a few copies of it. Why have you not read it? Because the bible has changed over the years. Really, like in what way? Well from the first bible to what we have now, there are different transalations. (since he was reading a book called ARAGON I thought I would say this to him.) So do you think they have the book ARAGON in different translations? Yes. Well it looks like it has not preventing you from reading it. No. Alright so tell me why do you believe the bible changed? I don't know. Even though some words have change the message of the bible has not, man is a sinner and in need of a saviour and Jesus Christ died for the sins of mankind.
By that time we spoke a little more and then he left. He returned today so I asked him if he found the evidence of the Bible changing. He replied no but he did not want to discuss the bible anymore because he just can't believe it and then ran off to his bus. I am sure he would not have come in, in the first place but the food is so irresistable. LOL
You know it is always easier to believe in something you don't know rather than knowing why you don't believe in something you don't know. I know why I am not a muslim, buddist, hinduist or such like and I can only think that these people know why they are not a Christian. There are a lot of Christians who believe in Jesus and do not know why? So we have a bunch of people who really do not know what it means to be a Christian. The reason is not that Jesus has not revelaed himself, it is because people like that guy would rather live not knowing or wanting to know. It is easier that way.
Folks the only way people are going to understand jesus or not understand Jesus is if they open the Bible. Without the Bible we only have blind faith in whatever you believe in. Jesus came to open the eyes of the blind not close them.
Is Your Church A Cult
I believe these day many people have misused the word CULT. So here is the definition:
CULT
noun
1. a particular system of religious worship, especially with reference to its rites and ceremonies.
2. an instance of great veneration of a person, ideal, or thing, especially as manifested by a body of admirers: the physical fitness cult.
3. the object of such devotion.
4. a group or sect bound together by veneration of the same thing, person, ideal, etc.
5. Sociology . a group having a sacred ideology and a set of rites centering around their sacred symbols.
6. a religion or sect considered to be false, unorthodox, or extremist, with members often living outside of conventional society under the direction of a charismatic leader.
7. the members of such a religion or sect.
8. any system for treating human sickness that originated by a person usually claiming to have sole insight into the nature of disease, and that employs methods regarded as unorthodox or unscientific.
Of course the definition has taken a bad spill to only have a negative connotation but let us look at it for what it is:
1. a particular system of religious worship, especially with reference to its rites and ceremonies.
We are devoted to Christ. As Christian we have what people call ceremonies. Baptism, Eucharist or Communion, Marriage, Ordination. This is all part of the Christian Church. The Death Burial and Resurrection of Christ. The Celebration of these and the looking forward of it.
2. an instance of great veneration of a person, ideal, or thing, especially as manifested by a body of admirers.
We have a great veneration for Christ. We love Him and the Faith in which we live in. We are His body and the lovers of Jesus. Our devotion should be so great that everything else should look like hate. That's why Jesus said "you must hate your mother, father and brother to be worthy of me." What this means is that our Love for God should be so much that anything close looks like hate.
3. the object of such devotion.
(SAME AS ABOVE)
4. a group or sect bound together by veneration of the same thing, person, ideal, etc.
They all came together in one accord. Acts 2. Be of the same mind. Philippians 2:2
5. Sociology . a group having a sacred ideology and a set of rites centering around their sacred symbols.
(THIS IS BAD) Even though Christians honor the Cross and its messages it is not to be treated as God himself. Are you forced to bow down to statutes, crosses, pentagrams or other things? Then you are in a Bad Cult
6. a religion or sect considered to be false, unorthodox, or extremist, with members often living outside of conventional society under the direction of a charismatic leader.
(NOW THIS IS THE ONE THAT IS BAD) Look at how this is fashioned. Is your life lived under a Charismatic Leader. Are you told what to do and how to do it? Can you make your own choices? Are you controlled in what to believe or not to believe about a grey issue? If you do not believe in the grey issue are you rejected? (GREY MEANING: RAPTURE, PREDESTINATION, REVELATION)
You are in a bad cult. If the above is what you are living.
If you are rejected because you live in sin and a worldly lifestyle and called to live a Holy life for God you are not in a Cult you are in the TRUE CHURCH of Jesus Christ.
7. the members of such a religion or sect.
???? I guess they mean of above.
8. any system for treating human sickness that originated by a person usually claiming to have sole insight into the nature of disease, and that employs methods regarded as unorthodox or unscientific.
(I think this was just added and a stretch on the definition)
CONCLUSION,
orship with us can do whatever they please. People have choices and decisions. People can believe what they want to beleive in certain issues. More power to them. They have Free Will. If people don't want to follow or do what is right that is their choice, not mine. With that said, the moment they stop following Jesus Christ according to the Bible and stop believing in the essential parts of Salvation and the Gospel, Let them be accursed. If you are part of a group of people who does not teach holiness, righteuousness, obedience and full devotion to Christ, but rather boasts on its programs, events and people than you are in a BAD CULT. Galatians 1:9
I am Charasmatic for Jesus, I am radical for Jesus, I am excited for Jesus, and I am His servant. I will preach against sin, the ways of worldliness, fornication, homosexuality and other sins. I will teach and preach to people to follow God, shun evil and live a Holy lifestyle. I will give him all I have and everything I have. My home, my car, my family and my life. If that makes me a CULT than may I be the greatest of all CULT leaders. In Jesus Name!
CULT
noun
1. a particular system of religious worship, especially with reference to its rites and ceremonies.
2. an instance of great veneration of a person, ideal, or thing, especially as manifested by a body of admirers: the physical fitness cult.
3. the object of such devotion.
4. a group or sect bound together by veneration of the same thing, person, ideal, etc.
5. Sociology . a group having a sacred ideology and a set of rites centering around their sacred symbols.
6. a religion or sect considered to be false, unorthodox, or extremist, with members often living outside of conventional society under the direction of a charismatic leader.
7. the members of such a religion or sect.
8. any system for treating human sickness that originated by a person usually claiming to have sole insight into the nature of disease, and that employs methods regarded as unorthodox or unscientific.
Of course the definition has taken a bad spill to only have a negative connotation but let us look at it for what it is:
1. a particular system of religious worship, especially with reference to its rites and ceremonies.
We are devoted to Christ. As Christian we have what people call ceremonies. Baptism, Eucharist or Communion, Marriage, Ordination. This is all part of the Christian Church. The Death Burial and Resurrection of Christ. The Celebration of these and the looking forward of it.
2. an instance of great veneration of a person, ideal, or thing, especially as manifested by a body of admirers.
We have a great veneration for Christ. We love Him and the Faith in which we live in. We are His body and the lovers of Jesus. Our devotion should be so great that everything else should look like hate. That's why Jesus said "you must hate your mother, father and brother to be worthy of me." What this means is that our Love for God should be so much that anything close looks like hate.
3. the object of such devotion.
(SAME AS ABOVE)
4. a group or sect bound together by veneration of the same thing, person, ideal, etc.
They all came together in one accord. Acts 2. Be of the same mind. Philippians 2:2
5. Sociology . a group having a sacred ideology and a set of rites centering around their sacred symbols.
(THIS IS BAD) Even though Christians honor the Cross and its messages it is not to be treated as God himself. Are you forced to bow down to statutes, crosses, pentagrams or other things? Then you are in a Bad Cult
6. a religion or sect considered to be false, unorthodox, or extremist, with members often living outside of conventional society under the direction of a charismatic leader.
(NOW THIS IS THE ONE THAT IS BAD) Look at how this is fashioned. Is your life lived under a Charismatic Leader. Are you told what to do and how to do it? Can you make your own choices? Are you controlled in what to believe or not to believe about a grey issue? If you do not believe in the grey issue are you rejected? (GREY MEANING: RAPTURE, PREDESTINATION, REVELATION)
You are in a bad cult. If the above is what you are living.
If you are rejected because you live in sin and a worldly lifestyle and called to live a Holy life for God you are not in a Cult you are in the TRUE CHURCH of Jesus Christ.
7. the members of such a religion or sect.
???? I guess they mean of above.
8. any system for treating human sickness that originated by a person usually claiming to have sole insight into the nature of disease, and that employs methods regarded as unorthodox or unscientific.
(I think this was just added and a stretch on the definition)
CONCLUSION,
orship with us can do whatever they please. People have choices and decisions. People can believe what they want to beleive in certain issues. More power to them. They have Free Will. If people don't want to follow or do what is right that is their choice, not mine. With that said, the moment they stop following Jesus Christ according to the Bible and stop believing in the essential parts of Salvation and the Gospel, Let them be accursed. If you are part of a group of people who does not teach holiness, righteuousness, obedience and full devotion to Christ, but rather boasts on its programs, events and people than you are in a BAD CULT. Galatians 1:9
I am Charasmatic for Jesus, I am radical for Jesus, I am excited for Jesus, and I am His servant. I will preach against sin, the ways of worldliness, fornication, homosexuality and other sins. I will teach and preach to people to follow God, shun evil and live a Holy lifestyle. I will give him all I have and everything I have. My home, my car, my family and my life. If that makes me a CULT than may I be the greatest of all CULT leaders. In Jesus Name!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Toys For Needy Families!
I want to thank all my brothers and sisters in Christ who help make a difference in the lives of many people. This year we delivered about 3-4 boxes of toys and goods to the family Shelter. These were all donated brand new toys given by families in the fellowship. The shelter and the kids were very very happy. Each year families are effected by people like you. May we continue to touch the heart of those in needs as we continue to give. Thank you!
WANT TO GIVE: Every year we help orphanages and family shelters with toys, clothing and finances. Every year they are so happy when they see us coming because there is such a need. As my wife and I give to those who are in need it brings out the joy that we have serving Christ. Truly Jesus said it and it is true: It is better to give than it is to receive. In Jesus Name!
Thank you to all my family and friends and those who have helped this Year!
WANT TO GIVE: Every year we help orphanages and family shelters with toys, clothing and finances. Every year they are so happy when they see us coming because there is such a need. As my wife and I give to those who are in need it brings out the joy that we have serving Christ. Truly Jesus said it and it is true: It is better to give than it is to receive. In Jesus Name!
Thank you to all my family and friends and those who have helped this Year!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Its all good.
This has been so far a very good and tiresome week. Me and the legal team have been going through the transcripts of the trial and the letters and records we have kept over the years and I can not tell you how much there is. It is almost as if I am re-living the trial again. What is so shocking is the stuff that is being said by the invetigators and the inspectors and city officials during the trial and the emails and letters we have. The lady working on filing the Federal Lawsuit even stated that she could not believe that judges would tolerate what was being said in trial and that how in heavens name does the law office allow these people to write these things. She had been pointing out some very obvious violations of our rights that when we read it I could not believe that it was said. As we are going through this and reading the statements that were said it makes me wonder whether or not the people saying it even realized what they were saying. LOL. At the same time we have an official record of what was said. All that was said in court will be held accountable in another jurisdiction. I said all that to say this:
One day we will stand before God who has kept a record of all that we have said and done in life. One day the books will be open and read and it makes me wonder whether we will be ashamed of what we did. What will be an excuse to those who have refused Christ. Those who choose to live their life without Jesus. Those who live in sin. If our court system which is made by man can keep such records what do you think God can do. It is only through Christ can we be made clean and so find forgiveness for all our sins. In doing that we repent and walk in His ways and find a life of joy and peace. Thank you Jesus. Amen.
Now on another note. We have submitted all our plans and we are moving forward. I thank God for those who have been there financially, emotionally and spiritually and have continued to give us such support. Without friends and family like that we know it would be very difficult. Please continue to pray as we deal with the courts and the city. We should have the lawsuit filed God willing in the next week or two. So pray for us.
One day we will stand before God who has kept a record of all that we have said and done in life. One day the books will be open and read and it makes me wonder whether we will be ashamed of what we did. What will be an excuse to those who have refused Christ. Those who choose to live their life without Jesus. Those who live in sin. If our court system which is made by man can keep such records what do you think God can do. It is only through Christ can we be made clean and so find forgiveness for all our sins. In doing that we repent and walk in His ways and find a life of joy and peace. Thank you Jesus. Amen.
Now on another note. We have submitted all our plans and we are moving forward. I thank God for those who have been there financially, emotionally and spiritually and have continued to give us such support. Without friends and family like that we know it would be very difficult. Please continue to pray as we deal with the courts and the city. We should have the lawsuit filed God willing in the next week or two. So pray for us.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The countdown
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Well it is has been a most glorious New Year. To be able to spend time with family and friends and fellowship under His annointing has been the greatest. God is so good. Suzanne found out we are having another baby girl. I am rejoicing. The baby is so beautiful. We have been so blessed to have children and be able to raise them in the Grace of God. Thank you Jesus. The neighborhood has been so quiet ever since someone moved out. It really does make a difference among neighbors when those who cause discension are out of the way. All our neighbors have been waving hello to us and have been polite. The Lord has been good.
As for our worshipping it has been awesome. God is so good. I love it when my family and friends gather at the home and worship with us. This last Sunday we had worship and afterwards ate together. It is so cool to watch all the children and families play together. The kids playing football and children on the playground. I pray that the change to the proeprty will not effect this type of fellowship. I mean right now it is so good and peaceful and to convert the property into a commercial entity may lose this type of fellowship. It really is scary. We will still continue to fight such a change but in the meantime continue towards it to make sure nothing is hindered in our worship to God. I guess in the end whatever God's will is it is.
With that said, it has been quite an eventful and surprising turnabout. Last week we received notice from and I am surprised to say, the ACLU who is reviewing our case and considering it. They informed us that they can not take on the previous conviction issue but may file a lawsuit and injunction against the ordinance and regulations that state that such requirements on private worship are unconstitutional and in turn bring the conviction on these points invalid and reversal. I know what many people may say about the ACLU but the fact is these days the ADF and ACLJ are financially challenged. The ADF informed us that they will file an Amicus Brief supporting our position when we file in Federal Court. So it is going to be quite the event. We are ready and willing to battle this to the finish and whatever God's will is so it is. We love our City and pray for our city all the time. Unfortunetley right now our city is run by those who have no fear of God or consideration to religious freedoms. Just last year alone 5 churches and ministries have been attacked by those in our city. Christ the King and Cross Roads Church and Us. Why? Because they are listening to a community of people who do not like what God's Church is doing. This needs to stop and we are praying that it will in the Name of Jesus Christ.
Now on a good note. All the plan revisions are done and we should be submitting those this week. So at least we are moving in the right direction. Be wise as a serpent and peaceful as a dove. Meanwhile my brothers and sisters in Christ I plead for you to pray for me also as we go through the planning and court stuff. I will fight for the rights of our family and not only ours but all those who worship in their homes.Please pray and pass this prayer request on!! May the grace of God be with you.
As for our worshipping it has been awesome. God is so good. I love it when my family and friends gather at the home and worship with us. This last Sunday we had worship and afterwards ate together. It is so cool to watch all the children and families play together. The kids playing football and children on the playground. I pray that the change to the proeprty will not effect this type of fellowship. I mean right now it is so good and peaceful and to convert the property into a commercial entity may lose this type of fellowship. It really is scary. We will still continue to fight such a change but in the meantime continue towards it to make sure nothing is hindered in our worship to God. I guess in the end whatever God's will is it is.
With that said, it has been quite an eventful and surprising turnabout. Last week we received notice from and I am surprised to say, the ACLU who is reviewing our case and considering it. They informed us that they can not take on the previous conviction issue but may file a lawsuit and injunction against the ordinance and regulations that state that such requirements on private worship are unconstitutional and in turn bring the conviction on these points invalid and reversal. I know what many people may say about the ACLU but the fact is these days the ADF and ACLJ are financially challenged. The ADF informed us that they will file an Amicus Brief supporting our position when we file in Federal Court. So it is going to be quite the event. We are ready and willing to battle this to the finish and whatever God's will is so it is. We love our City and pray for our city all the time. Unfortunetley right now our city is run by those who have no fear of God or consideration to religious freedoms. Just last year alone 5 churches and ministries have been attacked by those in our city. Christ the King and Cross Roads Church and Us. Why? Because they are listening to a community of people who do not like what God's Church is doing. This needs to stop and we are praying that it will in the Name of Jesus Christ.
Now on a good note. All the plan revisions are done and we should be submitting those this week. So at least we are moving in the right direction. Be wise as a serpent and peaceful as a dove. Meanwhile my brothers and sisters in Christ I plead for you to pray for me also as we go through the planning and court stuff. I will fight for the rights of our family and not only ours but all those who worship in their homes.Please pray and pass this prayer request on!! May the grace of God be with you.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
And so it was...
Well it has been a long time since I have blogged so let me first of all say, Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to all my family and friends in Christ.
I have been extremely busy this past month. Getting things together as i open up a new chapter in my life. LOL. God is good and He is worthy to be praised. I always am reminded of where I came and the chains that entagled me and how much God has provided for me.
The scripture that has been in my heart can be found in the book of Daniel. When Daniel knew that the paper was signed he went into his room as he always did and with the windows open prayed towards Jerusalem. Even thou he knew the consequences he still chose to pray and do what was in his heart.
As many of you know I worship at my home. I have family and friends come to my home and worship with me. I am not ashamed of this. There has been many times when i have tried to beat around the bush or try to make light of it but not anymore. I have the right by God to worship in my home with whom i want to worship with.
I know that there are people who think that should not be so. That worship and religion should be regulated and called a business or commercial. I know that there are people who are saying that I am a lawbreaker and criminal. All I can say is One Day God will turn this all around and all the laws that they are trying to place on Christians and those who worship in the home will be turned around and those laws that made me a criminal will be considered illegal. Then I wonder if they will be the criminals. I wonder if they will apologize. Even if the laws don't change, let it be know that I will continue to worship God as I always did.
So people can call it what they may, but Christians just need to be Christians and know that God is greater than anyone or anything in this life.
As the 3 men of God said, "God is able to deliver us from the fiery furnance, but if He does not let it be know that we have not worshipped or bowed down to your idol."
I have been extremely busy this past month. Getting things together as i open up a new chapter in my life. LOL. God is good and He is worthy to be praised. I always am reminded of where I came and the chains that entagled me and how much God has provided for me.
The scripture that has been in my heart can be found in the book of Daniel. When Daniel knew that the paper was signed he went into his room as he always did and with the windows open prayed towards Jerusalem. Even thou he knew the consequences he still chose to pray and do what was in his heart.
As many of you know I worship at my home. I have family and friends come to my home and worship with me. I am not ashamed of this. There has been many times when i have tried to beat around the bush or try to make light of it but not anymore. I have the right by God to worship in my home with whom i want to worship with.
I know that there are people who think that should not be so. That worship and religion should be regulated and called a business or commercial. I know that there are people who are saying that I am a lawbreaker and criminal. All I can say is One Day God will turn this all around and all the laws that they are trying to place on Christians and those who worship in the home will be turned around and those laws that made me a criminal will be considered illegal. Then I wonder if they will be the criminals. I wonder if they will apologize. Even if the laws don't change, let it be know that I will continue to worship God as I always did.
So people can call it what they may, but Christians just need to be Christians and know that God is greater than anyone or anything in this life.
As the 3 men of God said, "God is able to deliver us from the fiery furnance, but if He does not let it be know that we have not worshipped or bowed down to your idol."
Monday, October 18, 2010
BECAUSE WE ARE WHO WE ARE
As some of you know, as a minister of Jesus Christ I have never been ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When I became a Christian I became a witness for Christ bringing people to the reality of the need of Jesus. I preached in the streets, handed out tracs and openely and boldly declared my opposition of evil. With such work comes opposition. The bible even says,
2 Timothy 3:10-13 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (11) Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (12) Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (13) But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
The city wants to put me in Jail and stop me from worshipping at my home and we have vigilanty neighbors taking pictures and harassing us because of our worship at home. With that said, PRAISE GOD!!! What are we doing that is evil??? We are Christians worshipping Jesus while the devils are out taking pictures and raging in anger because we live in America. If I wanted to live in a communist country I would go to China. These people who are so Anti-Christian have no idea that they are not fighting with man but with God. So we are always encouraged by scriptures to know that, Jesus and all the apostles at one time or another sat in our shoes because wicked people wanted to get rid of them. Ultimately no matter what the cost or time the Kingdom of God will WIN. The gates of HELL shall NOT prevail against the KINGDOM of GOD!!!!
Prison or Not the Gospel of God will not be stopped. Though I be in Chains you can not chain the Power of God!!
2 Timothy 3:10-13 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (11) Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (12) Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (13) But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
The city wants to put me in Jail and stop me from worshipping at my home and we have vigilanty neighbors taking pictures and harassing us because of our worship at home. With that said, PRAISE GOD!!! What are we doing that is evil??? We are Christians worshipping Jesus while the devils are out taking pictures and raging in anger because we live in America. If I wanted to live in a communist country I would go to China. These people who are so Anti-Christian have no idea that they are not fighting with man but with God. So we are always encouraged by scriptures to know that, Jesus and all the apostles at one time or another sat in our shoes because wicked people wanted to get rid of them. Ultimately no matter what the cost or time the Kingdom of God will WIN. The gates of HELL shall NOT prevail against the KINGDOM of GOD!!!!
Prison or Not the Gospel of God will not be stopped. Though I be in Chains you can not chain the Power of God!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Why do the Heathen Rage?
Today I experienced a very shocking sight. People actually gathering and rejoicing over a Pastor of the Christian faith sentenced. Instead of being ashamed people actually gloated over the situation. Did they think that this was pleasing in the sight of God? I can assure you that God is never pleased when any of his servants are condemned or persecuted. The same spirit that was in the people who crucified Christ was in these people's hearts today. They yelled Crucify Him and so these people cried out for harsh judgment. This demonic spirit has been in the people of the world since the world began. Even the Holy Apostles were prosecuted by people who yelled for their demise. Why did they want Peter and Paul and all the others killed? Because they preached a Gospel and message contrary to what the heathens believed. Shame on these people who have come against the people of God. SHAME ON THEM!!! The Evangelist Stephen said it best,
Acts 7:51-52 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (52) Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:
You know what the saddest thing is? I feel so sorry for their souls. I know that as God has dealt with Korah and Dathan who opposed Moses so God will deal with each one of these people. Meanwhile I will rely on God and His saving grace. While all may fall, we will STILL BE ON TOP!!! Thank you Jesus for the things you have done in our lives and I thank you that I can even be found worthy to be persecuted for your Name!!
Acts 5:40-42 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. (41) And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. (42) And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
And So it shall be in our lives and in our home.
Acts 7:51-52 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (52) Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:
You know what the saddest thing is? I feel so sorry for their souls. I know that as God has dealt with Korah and Dathan who opposed Moses so God will deal with each one of these people. Meanwhile I will rely on God and His saving grace. While all may fall, we will STILL BE ON TOP!!! Thank you Jesus for the things you have done in our lives and I thank you that I can even be found worthy to be persecuted for your Name!!
Acts 5:40-42 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. (41) And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. (42) And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
And So it shall be in our lives and in our home.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Shut The Hell Up and Sit Down!
I am sure you are caught by this title. Maybe you should be. These days so called believers of Jesus Christ have been a stench in the nostrils of Christianity. I want you to read something:
Acts 2:38-47 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (39) For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. (40) And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. (41) Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. (42) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (43) And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. (44) And all that believed were together, and had all things common; (45) And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (46) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, (47) Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
This is Christianity! They shared and they enjoyed and they gathered and they worshiped together daily. They read and they prayed. Meanwhile many who call themselves Christians have no time to gather or go to church or pray or read the bible and they still want to call themselves Christians! Folks this type of thinking is from HELL. They need to SHUT THE HELL UP and THEY NEED TO SIT DOWN!!
If you call yourself a Christian and you have other things ahead of God like YOUR JOB, YOUR KIDS SPORTS, YOUR RECREATION, YOUR FISHING and YOUR WHATEVER you need to repent. You are a damned sinner who needs Jesus to come into your life so that you may know that it is only through JESUS CHRIST can you find salvation and truth. I know that many may say, "wait a minute I do believe." SO WHAT!! Even the DEVILS believe and they fear God. There are people who believe and live with no fear of God. That folks is HELLISH THINKING so you need to SHUT THE HELL UP and SIT DOWN with the believers of Jesus Christ and grow in the power of the Holy Spirit.
If this message offends you let me know. I would gladly discuss the options and maybe you or I can learn from each other. If you know what I am talking about and you agree, let me know. Let people know that there are real believers who are looking bad because so called Christians are BLASPHEMING the name of Jesus.
JUST A NOTE TO SOME WHO MAY HAVE DIFFICULTIES: SHUT THE HELL UP means taking hellish thinking and closing it up. Removing it from your life. AND SIT DOWN means get to worship and gathering of believers stop making excuses and putting other things fist.
Acts 2:38-47 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (39) For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. (40) And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. (41) Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. (42) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. (43) And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. (44) And all that believed were together, and had all things common; (45) And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (46) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, (47) Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
This is Christianity! They shared and they enjoyed and they gathered and they worshiped together daily. They read and they prayed. Meanwhile many who call themselves Christians have no time to gather or go to church or pray or read the bible and they still want to call themselves Christians! Folks this type of thinking is from HELL. They need to SHUT THE HELL UP and THEY NEED TO SIT DOWN!!
If you call yourself a Christian and you have other things ahead of God like YOUR JOB, YOUR KIDS SPORTS, YOUR RECREATION, YOUR FISHING and YOUR WHATEVER you need to repent. You are a damned sinner who needs Jesus to come into your life so that you may know that it is only through JESUS CHRIST can you find salvation and truth. I know that many may say, "wait a minute I do believe." SO WHAT!! Even the DEVILS believe and they fear God. There are people who believe and live with no fear of God. That folks is HELLISH THINKING so you need to SHUT THE HELL UP and SIT DOWN with the believers of Jesus Christ and grow in the power of the Holy Spirit.
If this message offends you let me know. I would gladly discuss the options and maybe you or I can learn from each other. If you know what I am talking about and you agree, let me know. Let people know that there are real believers who are looking bad because so called Christians are BLASPHEMING the name of Jesus.
JUST A NOTE TO SOME WHO MAY HAVE DIFFICULTIES: SHUT THE HELL UP means taking hellish thinking and closing it up. Removing it from your life. AND SIT DOWN means get to worship and gathering of believers stop making excuses and putting other things fist.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
A Christian Saved By Grace!!
Now that you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour there are a few things you need to know. Being saved by grace has nothing to do with works. It is all about the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Whatever you do now means absolutely nothing with Salvation. You're saved by grace and not by works. So here are some simple steps to remain saved:
1) Don't join a local body church. Even thou Jesus formed the Church and he made some to be Pastors and Teachers you are saved by grace and do not need to be under control or accountable to anyone but Jesus. Jesus is your Pastor. Jesus saved you and being part of a church is just like being part of the temple in Jerusalem. Since the temple no longer exists, your needing to be part of a church should no longer exists. Further think about all the benifits you would have when not being part of a Church. You get to go to swapmeets, malls, stores and spend more time with yout family. I know that this is what Jesus would want. Church just takes too much time.
2) If you must join a local body of believers join a group that does not tell you what to do. You don't want to be around people who are legalistic. They say things like, help or you need to pray or read your bible or feed the homeless or something like that. We are saved by grace and not by works. Being a Christian is having the right to do nothing if you don't want to. If you help or support people may see you as self righteous and you don't want that to happen. It is Better to be safe than sorry.
3) If you also feel like you need to join a fellowship, join one that tells you what you want, not what you need. Don't be part of a group that talks about sin, repentances, works and conviction that is all Old testament stuff. We believe in a New Testament Jesus. He says things like love, mercy, faith, hope, and all that good stuff. Especially forgiveness. Remember the thing the Lord said, "Hey, no ones perfect." or something like that. I mean we already going to heaven we should be able to go there feeling good about ourselves.
4) Don't tithe. Titihing doesn't save you. I mean you don't get into heaven by paying your way in. People who tell you to tithe have no idea what it is like not having money. They tithe because they have money. They say the reason they have money is because they tithe, but they don't know what it's like not having money because they tithe. If they stop tithing maybe they would understand how we feel. Anyway, even thou Jesus said, "you will reap what you sow" he is only talking about farming. Tithing is Old Testament stuff.
5) Have worldy friends. Don't get personal with Christians. Born Again Christians are too religious. By the way you don't need people who know what you believe in to judge you for not doing them. It is better to have friends who don't know what you believe in so that when you do what your not supposed to do they don't judge you. I believe it was the apostle Paul who said, "Ignoarance is bliss." or was that Shakespear. I don't know I think it make sense.
6) You don't need to read the bible. The bible is old and it is made for people who lived during the time of Jesus and before. Being saved by grace is means you believe in the Bible but don't have to read it. By the way you can read other things that may help you feel happy and good about yourself. Like a devotional called, "365 day devotional of encouraging words" or "Don't judge me and I won't judge you. There were even." or "Purpose Drivien Life" or "Prayer of jabez" or maybe a small piece of scriptures to meet your wants. You can still say you are a Christian and that you believe in the Bible without reading it.
7) Last but not least, Don't force religion on other people. Living by grace is about acceptance and tolerance. Jesus accepted us just the way we are so that we can accept people just the way they are. When you witness about your faith you become forceful and God does not like people who are forceful. We just need to accept them and tolerate them just the way they are. Let them make their own choice even though they don't know that there is a choice. Parents this also means your children. Let them choose what to believe in or what not to believe in. Grace means you accept your daughter if she decides to do what other people on MTV do, or your son when he dresses up like a Zombie. Jesus loves zombies that is why he rose Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus was a Zombie and Jesus accepted him. Are we better than Jesus? NO! So accept and tolerate and let them decide. Being a witness is being a nad and people don't like nags.
If you follow these steps you will be a Christian who will find that you have fullfilled the golden rule and that you are saved by grace. Treat others like you want them to treat you. You will find yourself happy and joyful. You will find that when you die you will be with the Lord. I think.
1) Don't join a local body church. Even thou Jesus formed the Church and he made some to be Pastors and Teachers you are saved by grace and do not need to be under control or accountable to anyone but Jesus. Jesus is your Pastor. Jesus saved you and being part of a church is just like being part of the temple in Jerusalem. Since the temple no longer exists, your needing to be part of a church should no longer exists. Further think about all the benifits you would have when not being part of a Church. You get to go to swapmeets, malls, stores and spend more time with yout family. I know that this is what Jesus would want. Church just takes too much time.
2) If you must join a local body of believers join a group that does not tell you what to do. You don't want to be around people who are legalistic. They say things like, help or you need to pray or read your bible or feed the homeless or something like that. We are saved by grace and not by works. Being a Christian is having the right to do nothing if you don't want to. If you help or support people may see you as self righteous and you don't want that to happen. It is Better to be safe than sorry.
3) If you also feel like you need to join a fellowship, join one that tells you what you want, not what you need. Don't be part of a group that talks about sin, repentances, works and conviction that is all Old testament stuff. We believe in a New Testament Jesus. He says things like love, mercy, faith, hope, and all that good stuff. Especially forgiveness. Remember the thing the Lord said, "Hey, no ones perfect." or something like that. I mean we already going to heaven we should be able to go there feeling good about ourselves.
4) Don't tithe. Titihing doesn't save you. I mean you don't get into heaven by paying your way in. People who tell you to tithe have no idea what it is like not having money. They tithe because they have money. They say the reason they have money is because they tithe, but they don't know what it's like not having money because they tithe. If they stop tithing maybe they would understand how we feel. Anyway, even thou Jesus said, "you will reap what you sow" he is only talking about farming. Tithing is Old Testament stuff.
5) Have worldy friends. Don't get personal with Christians. Born Again Christians are too religious. By the way you don't need people who know what you believe in to judge you for not doing them. It is better to have friends who don't know what you believe in so that when you do what your not supposed to do they don't judge you. I believe it was the apostle Paul who said, "Ignoarance is bliss." or was that Shakespear. I don't know I think it make sense.
6) You don't need to read the bible. The bible is old and it is made for people who lived during the time of Jesus and before. Being saved by grace is means you believe in the Bible but don't have to read it. By the way you can read other things that may help you feel happy and good about yourself. Like a devotional called, "365 day devotional of encouraging words" or "Don't judge me and I won't judge you. There were even." or "Purpose Drivien Life" or "Prayer of jabez" or maybe a small piece of scriptures to meet your wants. You can still say you are a Christian and that you believe in the Bible without reading it.
7) Last but not least, Don't force religion on other people. Living by grace is about acceptance and tolerance. Jesus accepted us just the way we are so that we can accept people just the way they are. When you witness about your faith you become forceful and God does not like people who are forceful. We just need to accept them and tolerate them just the way they are. Let them make their own choice even though they don't know that there is a choice. Parents this also means your children. Let them choose what to believe in or what not to believe in. Grace means you accept your daughter if she decides to do what other people on MTV do, or your son when he dresses up like a Zombie. Jesus loves zombies that is why he rose Lazarus from the dead. Lazarus was a Zombie and Jesus accepted him. Are we better than Jesus? NO! So accept and tolerate and let them decide. Being a witness is being a nad and people don't like nags.
If you follow these steps you will be a Christian who will find that you have fullfilled the golden rule and that you are saved by grace. Treat others like you want them to treat you. You will find yourself happy and joyful. You will find that when you die you will be with the Lord. I think.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)