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!
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Are Tattoos Sin? Can I Get A Tattoo If I Am A Christian?
There is a question always looming over the head of Christian folks on whether or not Tattoos are permitted. I am sure that you have encountered someone who claims to be a Christian and has a Tattoo. I know that I am one of them. As a Christian I have tattoos. None of the tattoos I received was while I was a believer but rather living in sin. When I became a Christian it did not take a study in the scriptures to know that Tattoos were frowned upon. I remember when I came across a new believer who felt that a Tattoo of a Cross on his back was a form of honoring God. Even though the design looked nice there was something that just not go well with me.
So what does God say about Tattoos? Can a Christian have a Tattoo? Is it a sin to have a Tattoo? Would God send you to Hell for having a Tattoo?
I would like to answer the last question first. Even though there are a lot of things that you can do that may not send you to Hell, it should not be permitted.
1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
Just because it may not send me to Hell it does not mean I should do it. Even in this scripture the reference has to do with being a good witness. Which allows me now to answer the next question. Can a Christian have a Tattoo?
We are called to be good witnesses of Christ. We are to stand as representatives of God's Kingdom. Even though in this time of age a Tattoo is an accepted NORM it represents the world. A person who has a Tattoo is usually someone who is represented as worldly. Of course there is some exceptions but they are very few in between. If you have a Tattoo, ask yourself, why did I get this Tattoo? What is the meaning of the Tattoo? Why did I feel like I had to have this Tattoo? Much of the answer is Pride. It looked nice. I felt hip. It made me feel a little better. It makes me look tough. Many other answers are followed. If one of them were I wanted to honor God, then I can assure you that the person who got the Tattoo for that reason did not ask God what he thought. This brings us to the last question. Is a Tattoo a Sin?
Leviticus 19:28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
In the text above it is very plain that a Tattoo is a Mark Printed on you. So the answer is YES. Tattoos are a sin. They are disobeying the will of God. God does not intend for believers to have anything on them printed, marked or pierced that represents the World.
For the sake of exegisis, I would like to exegite this text further so that you may understand the deeper truth of it.
The word PRINT in the Hebrew is
"nâthan"
A primitive root; to give, used with great latitude of application (put, make, etc.):
The word MARK is
"kethôbeth"
keth-o'-beth
From H3789; a letter or other mark branded on the skin:
The purest form of this text is just that you shall not have a letter or mark branded on the skin.
Tattoos are forbidden by God. They do not honor God nor is God pleases when a Christian gets one.
As Christians we are called to a higher calling. A life for God and in God. To present our Bodies a living sacrifice. This means that our Bodies, our Skin, our Life belongs to God not us. We are to represent Him. Tattoos do none of that.
If you are a Christian and you received a tattoo as a believer you must repent. Ask God to forgive you for your ignorance to His Law. Ask him to cleanse you and that you will not show pride or be proud of the Tattoo but rather it will be looked at as immaturity and fleshly. When people ask about it you will use it as a Testimony of how you thought it was alright but it is not. That the only cutting of the flesh and marking of the flesh that Christ wants is that of the heart. God will lead you.
In Christ Name.
Pastor Michael Salman
So what does God say about Tattoos? Can a Christian have a Tattoo? Is it a sin to have a Tattoo? Would God send you to Hell for having a Tattoo?
I would like to answer the last question first. Even though there are a lot of things that you can do that may not send you to Hell, it should not be permitted.
1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
Just because it may not send me to Hell it does not mean I should do it. Even in this scripture the reference has to do with being a good witness. Which allows me now to answer the next question. Can a Christian have a Tattoo?
We are called to be good witnesses of Christ. We are to stand as representatives of God's Kingdom. Even though in this time of age a Tattoo is an accepted NORM it represents the world. A person who has a Tattoo is usually someone who is represented as worldly. Of course there is some exceptions but they are very few in between. If you have a Tattoo, ask yourself, why did I get this Tattoo? What is the meaning of the Tattoo? Why did I feel like I had to have this Tattoo? Much of the answer is Pride. It looked nice. I felt hip. It made me feel a little better. It makes me look tough. Many other answers are followed. If one of them were I wanted to honor God, then I can assure you that the person who got the Tattoo for that reason did not ask God what he thought. This brings us to the last question. Is a Tattoo a Sin?
Leviticus 19:28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
In the text above it is very plain that a Tattoo is a Mark Printed on you. So the answer is YES. Tattoos are a sin. They are disobeying the will of God. God does not intend for believers to have anything on them printed, marked or pierced that represents the World.
For the sake of exegisis, I would like to exegite this text further so that you may understand the deeper truth of it.
The word PRINT in the Hebrew is
"nâthan"
A primitive root; to give, used with great latitude of application (put, make, etc.):
The word MARK is
"kethôbeth"
keth-o'-beth
From H3789; a letter or other mark branded on the skin:
The purest form of this text is just that you shall not have a letter or mark branded on the skin.
Tattoos are forbidden by God. They do not honor God nor is God pleases when a Christian gets one.
As Christians we are called to a higher calling. A life for God and in God. To present our Bodies a living sacrifice. This means that our Bodies, our Skin, our Life belongs to God not us. We are to represent Him. Tattoos do none of that.
If you are a Christian and you received a tattoo as a believer you must repent. Ask God to forgive you for your ignorance to His Law. Ask him to cleanse you and that you will not show pride or be proud of the Tattoo but rather it will be looked at as immaturity and fleshly. When people ask about it you will use it as a Testimony of how you thought it was alright but it is not. That the only cutting of the flesh and marking of the flesh that Christ wants is that of the heart. God will lead you.
In Christ Name.
Pastor Michael Salman
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Is There a Rapture. New Study New Insight!!
Does the bible teach that there is a Rapture?
There are churches and so many that teach on this doctrine called the Rapture. The purpose of the doctrrie of the Rapture is based on the premise that God will not allow His beleivers to enter a time of tribulation and judgement on the earth. That prior to the great tribulation the Lord shall Rapture the believers and take them to heaven. The most famous of all texts used to prove the Rapture is found in 1 Thessolonians 4:16-18 which reads the following:
1Thessolonians 4:16-18
(16) For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
(17) Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
(18) Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Is this scripture really evidence of the Rapture? If we examine this scripture a little closer you will find a few key words and phrases that truly indicate what this event is.
1) The Lord Himself Shall Descend.
2) With a voice of the Arch-Angel.
3) With the Trumpet of God.
4) The Dead in Christ shall Rise First.
5) Then we who are Alive and Remain shall be Caught up to be with the Lord.
Now let us look at other scripture that pertains to the resurrection. It is important to note that the event of the Resurrection as all agree occurs at the end of the tribulation where the Rapture is before the tribulation.
1 Corinthians 15:51-52
(51) Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
(52) In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
Now after reading this we come up with these key phrases:
1) We will not all sleep (WHICH MEANS DIE) but we will all be changed.
2) In a twinkling of an eye, at the Last Trumpet.
3) The dead shall be raised.
In this text we can see such similiar factors found in 1 Thessolonians 4:16-18
1) When this event occurs there will be both Dead and Alive Christians who are resurrected.
2) There is a Trumpet, now this indicates not just any trumpet but at the LAST TRUMPET.
Some argue that this event is different than the Thessolonian Event. So before we come to a conclusion let us look at other scripture indicating the resurrection.
Revelation 11:15
(15) And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
......
......
Revelation 11:18
(18) And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
Now let us look at some of the factors in this scripture:
1) The Seventh Angel Sounded this is the Seventh Trumpet (The LAST TRUMPET)
2) The Saints are resurrected for Reward and the Sinners are Judged.
It is plain that these scriptures have so many similiarites as those found in 1 Thessolonians when it pertains to the when the Saints are resurrected. So lets take a look at other scripture.
Matthew 24:29-31
(29) Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
(30) And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
(31) And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
There is no greater evidence found in scripture than that found in the words of Jesus on the Resurrection.
1) Immedeitly After the Tribulation.
2) The Lord himself Descends on a cloud.
3) With the angels.
4) Sound of a great trumpet.
5) Then he shall gather the elect.
The words of Jesus in Matthew 24 and the words spoken by Paul in 1 Thessolonians on an event are identical. Except for the fact that Jesus states this will happen at the End of teh Tribluation and preachers and other teachers say it will happen at the beginning of the tribulation. So who do you believe???
To review we see the following.
1) A trumpet sound.
2) Angels
3) Jesus on the Cloud
4) The resurrection of dead believers
5) The resurrection or Rapture of alive believers.
6) At the Last Trumpet
7) At the end of the Tribulation.
So that settles it. The bible never teachs that Christians will be RAPTURED but rather resurrected at the end. What???? Still not convinced Alright lets look at this. In the first letter to the Thessolonians Paul writes on us being with the Lord and that it should be a comfort knowing the Lord shall unite us with Him and those who preceeded us. Now in his second letter he writes this:
2 Thessalonians 2:1-5
(1) Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
(2) That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
(3) Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
(4) Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
(5) Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
He reminds them that the event of us being gathered will not happen until:
1) Christians Turn away from the faith.
2) The Anti-Christ sits in the temple and claims himself to be God.
In the Tirbulation Time Line. These events occur when the tribulation had already begun and in one case when the Tribulation is already in the 3.5 year mark. Jesus tells us the same:
Matthew 24:12-15
(12) And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
(13) But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
(14) And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
(15) When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
O.K. There. WHAT???? You need more. Fine. Lets now reason further. Why should there be a Rapture? Many will say the Rapture:
1) Is So that Christians do not suffer through the Tribulation.
2) Because Christians were not appointed to go through the tribulation.
Alright just by thinking about this we must ask ourselves:
1) Paul Peter and many of the Apostles and Christians suffered the greatest of all tribulation for 300 years. Were they appointed to die and be tortured while we are not?
2) If Christians are raptured so that they do not have to go through the tribulation and suffer, then why in 1 Thessolonians 4:16-18 are those who already died resurrected also. Can a dead man go through the tribulation also?
Folks it is so evident that the Rapture prior to the Tribulation is not a doctrine which any of the apostles or Christ himself taught. Rather to endure through suffering and to be strong during times of struggles looking to the end is what was taught.
For more information contact me at www.HCFAZ.org
Pastor Michael Salman
Harvest Christian Fellowship
There are churches and so many that teach on this doctrine called the Rapture. The purpose of the doctrrie of the Rapture is based on the premise that God will not allow His beleivers to enter a time of tribulation and judgement on the earth. That prior to the great tribulation the Lord shall Rapture the believers and take them to heaven. The most famous of all texts used to prove the Rapture is found in 1 Thessolonians 4:16-18 which reads the following:
1Thessolonians 4:16-18
(16) For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
(17) Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
(18) Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Is this scripture really evidence of the Rapture? If we examine this scripture a little closer you will find a few key words and phrases that truly indicate what this event is.
1) The Lord Himself Shall Descend.
2) With a voice of the Arch-Angel.
3) With the Trumpet of God.
4) The Dead in Christ shall Rise First.
5) Then we who are Alive and Remain shall be Caught up to be with the Lord.
Now let us look at other scripture that pertains to the resurrection. It is important to note that the event of the Resurrection as all agree occurs at the end of the tribulation where the Rapture is before the tribulation.
1 Corinthians 15:51-52
(51) Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
(52) In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
Now after reading this we come up with these key phrases:
1) We will not all sleep (WHICH MEANS DIE) but we will all be changed.
2) In a twinkling of an eye, at the Last Trumpet.
3) The dead shall be raised.
In this text we can see such similiar factors found in 1 Thessolonians 4:16-18
1) When this event occurs there will be both Dead and Alive Christians who are resurrected.
2) There is a Trumpet, now this indicates not just any trumpet but at the LAST TRUMPET.
Some argue that this event is different than the Thessolonian Event. So before we come to a conclusion let us look at other scripture indicating the resurrection.
Revelation 11:15
(15) And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
......
......
Revelation 11:18
(18) And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
Now let us look at some of the factors in this scripture:
1) The Seventh Angel Sounded this is the Seventh Trumpet (The LAST TRUMPET)
2) The Saints are resurrected for Reward and the Sinners are Judged.
It is plain that these scriptures have so many similiarites as those found in 1 Thessolonians when it pertains to the when the Saints are resurrected. So lets take a look at other scripture.
Matthew 24:29-31
(29) Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
(30) And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
(31) And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
There is no greater evidence found in scripture than that found in the words of Jesus on the Resurrection.
1) Immedeitly After the Tribulation.
2) The Lord himself Descends on a cloud.
3) With the angels.
4) Sound of a great trumpet.
5) Then he shall gather the elect.
The words of Jesus in Matthew 24 and the words spoken by Paul in 1 Thessolonians on an event are identical. Except for the fact that Jesus states this will happen at the End of teh Tribluation and preachers and other teachers say it will happen at the beginning of the tribulation. So who do you believe???
To review we see the following.
1) A trumpet sound.
2) Angels
3) Jesus on the Cloud
4) The resurrection of dead believers
5) The resurrection or Rapture of alive believers.
6) At the Last Trumpet
7) At the end of the Tribulation.
So that settles it. The bible never teachs that Christians will be RAPTURED but rather resurrected at the end. What???? Still not convinced Alright lets look at this. In the first letter to the Thessolonians Paul writes on us being with the Lord and that it should be a comfort knowing the Lord shall unite us with Him and those who preceeded us. Now in his second letter he writes this:
2 Thessalonians 2:1-5
(1) Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
(2) That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
(3) Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
(4) Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
(5) Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
He reminds them that the event of us being gathered will not happen until:
1) Christians Turn away from the faith.
2) The Anti-Christ sits in the temple and claims himself to be God.
In the Tirbulation Time Line. These events occur when the tribulation had already begun and in one case when the Tribulation is already in the 3.5 year mark. Jesus tells us the same:
Matthew 24:12-15
(12) And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
(13) But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
(14) And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
(15) When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
O.K. There. WHAT???? You need more. Fine. Lets now reason further. Why should there be a Rapture? Many will say the Rapture:
1) Is So that Christians do not suffer through the Tribulation.
2) Because Christians were not appointed to go through the tribulation.
Alright just by thinking about this we must ask ourselves:
1) Paul Peter and many of the Apostles and Christians suffered the greatest of all tribulation for 300 years. Were they appointed to die and be tortured while we are not?
2) If Christians are raptured so that they do not have to go through the tribulation and suffer, then why in 1 Thessolonians 4:16-18 are those who already died resurrected also. Can a dead man go through the tribulation also?
Folks it is so evident that the Rapture prior to the Tribulation is not a doctrine which any of the apostles or Christ himself taught. Rather to endure through suffering and to be strong during times of struggles looking to the end is what was taught.
For more information contact me at www.HCFAZ.org
Pastor Michael Salman
Harvest Christian Fellowship
Monday, July 4, 2011
Sentenced To Jail For Worship at Home
On June 30th, 3011 the Judge Sallie Gaines sentenced me to 60 days in jail, $12,000 in fines and so forth. What was the crime? Having worship at my home. That's right. As some you know we have been worshipping at our home since 2002. We have had bible studies, worship and so forth and since we purchased our new home in 2005 we have conducted some kind of worship and bible study in the house. Even though our home is not open to the public the gathering of Christians at a private residence is against the law, according to the City of Phoenix Prosecutor John Tutelman. John Tutelman has been the force and pursuer of this case and other cases which involved religious prosecution. He was involved in the Methodist Church that was feeding the homeless, our home worship and our signage freedom of speech and religious exercise case. It seems that he really dislikes Christians and what they stand for. So we will continue to pray for him. If God changed a man named Saul who persecuted the Church, later to become Paul, who knows what he can do we John Tutelman. At least he does not have the power to crucify us or feed us to the lions.
Nonetheless our attorneys are fighting back and trying to get the stay in the courts. Which will hold back the wolves until we can get some constitutional right questions answered. Such as, are private religious gatherings permitted without a permit? Do people who gather in their homes for worship required to convert their home to meet commercial requirements?
Until we can get a stay I am to report to jail on August 29, 2011. So it gives us 60 days to petition the courts. Some people have asked how I feel about that. All I can say is, my other Christian Brothers and Sisters have suffered much more for much less. All Daniel had to do was stop praying for 30 days. All Shadrach, Meschach and Abendego had to do was bow down to an idol. I know my God is able to deliver me from such persecution but if he does not, I will continue to worship Him and Serve Him. As for me and in my house we will serve the Lord.
So many have asked what can you do. Here is what you can do:
1) Pray
2) Write a letter to the Mayor, the Governor and Senator.
3) Spread the word around to other Christan's. Let them know. The Christian community needs to stand against such unjust prosecution.
4) Write a letter to the court. Judge Sallie Gaines. Let them know that the prosecution against Michael Salman is not in the interest of the public but rather is a personal vendetta.
5) Nothing. There are so many who will do absolutely nothing because they are procrastinators, lazy or just plain forgot. If that is you don't worry, that is why my trust is in Christ. Just pray it will make you at least feel better about doing nothing. : )
So let me answer a couple of questions:
1) Do people who come to your home park in the street or block any driveways or cause traffic? NO. We own 4.6 acres and the 15 cars who park all park on our property behind a gate.
2) Do you cause any excessive Noise. Other than the occasional kids playing or people calling out to each other, no. We worship at 10 AM and everyone gone by 1:00 PM. We also worship at 7:00 PM usually Gone by 8:30 PM. The nearest home is at least 100 feet from our home.
3) Do you know why they do not want you to worship at your home? Technically they are claiming public safety. Reality, they just do not like the idea of a "CHURCH" being next to their home. Despite it is my residence the thought of Christians or any religious group meeting together weekly is repulsive to some. Even if the meetings don't bother them.
4) Do you cause traffic or crowd streets? Right across the street from us is a large public park. With 4 basketball courts, tennis courts, a baseball field and a couple of soccer fields and of course the playgrounds. What happens at my home on Sunday is minuet compared to what occurs across the street.
So there you have it. Here are some addresses for you to consider. Please send me a copy of any and all correspondence sent to anyone for my records. Thank you.
Michael Salman
Email: Harvestchristian@cox.net
Fax 602-424-0860
City of Phoenix
Municipal Court
Honorable Sallie Gaines
300 West Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602 262-6421
The full mailing address is:
The Honorable Jan Brewer
Governor of Arizona
1700 West Washington
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
Telephone (602) 542-4331
In State Toll Free 1-(800) 253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)
Fax (602) 542-1381
City of Phoenix, Mayor's Office
200 W. Washington St., 11th floor
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: (602) 262-7111
Fax: (602) 495-5583
Email: mayor.gordon@phoenix.gov
City TTY Relay: (602) 534-5500
Mr. John Tutelman
Assistant City Prosecutor
P.O. Box 4500
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Nonetheless our attorneys are fighting back and trying to get the stay in the courts. Which will hold back the wolves until we can get some constitutional right questions answered. Such as, are private religious gatherings permitted without a permit? Do people who gather in their homes for worship required to convert their home to meet commercial requirements?
Until we can get a stay I am to report to jail on August 29, 2011. So it gives us 60 days to petition the courts. Some people have asked how I feel about that. All I can say is, my other Christian Brothers and Sisters have suffered much more for much less. All Daniel had to do was stop praying for 30 days. All Shadrach, Meschach and Abendego had to do was bow down to an idol. I know my God is able to deliver me from such persecution but if he does not, I will continue to worship Him and Serve Him. As for me and in my house we will serve the Lord.
So many have asked what can you do. Here is what you can do:
1) Pray
2) Write a letter to the Mayor, the Governor and Senator.
3) Spread the word around to other Christan's. Let them know. The Christian community needs to stand against such unjust prosecution.
4) Write a letter to the court. Judge Sallie Gaines. Let them know that the prosecution against Michael Salman is not in the interest of the public but rather is a personal vendetta.
5) Nothing. There are so many who will do absolutely nothing because they are procrastinators, lazy or just plain forgot. If that is you don't worry, that is why my trust is in Christ. Just pray it will make you at least feel better about doing nothing. : )
So let me answer a couple of questions:
1) Do people who come to your home park in the street or block any driveways or cause traffic? NO. We own 4.6 acres and the 15 cars who park all park on our property behind a gate.
2) Do you cause any excessive Noise. Other than the occasional kids playing or people calling out to each other, no. We worship at 10 AM and everyone gone by 1:00 PM. We also worship at 7:00 PM usually Gone by 8:30 PM. The nearest home is at least 100 feet from our home.
3) Do you know why they do not want you to worship at your home? Technically they are claiming public safety. Reality, they just do not like the idea of a "CHURCH" being next to their home. Despite it is my residence the thought of Christians or any religious group meeting together weekly is repulsive to some. Even if the meetings don't bother them.
4) Do you cause traffic or crowd streets? Right across the street from us is a large public park. With 4 basketball courts, tennis courts, a baseball field and a couple of soccer fields and of course the playgrounds. What happens at my home on Sunday is minuet compared to what occurs across the street.
So there you have it. Here are some addresses for you to consider. Please send me a copy of any and all correspondence sent to anyone for my records. Thank you.
Michael Salman
Email: Harvestchristian@cox.net
Fax 602-424-0860
City of Phoenix
Municipal Court
Honorable Sallie Gaines
300 West Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602 262-6421
The full mailing address is:
The Honorable Jan Brewer
Governor of Arizona
1700 West Washington
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
Telephone (602) 542-4331
In State Toll Free 1-(800) 253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)
Fax (602) 542-1381
City of Phoenix, Mayor's Office
200 W. Washington St., 11th floor
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: (602) 262-7111
Fax: (602) 495-5583
Email: mayor.gordon@phoenix.gov
City TTY Relay: (602) 534-5500
Mr. John Tutelman
Assistant City Prosecutor
P.O. Box 4500
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
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
Haman and Mordecai
Esther 3:1-5 After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him. (2) And all the king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence. (3) Then the king's servants, which were in the king's gate, said unto Mordecai, Why transgressest thou the king's commandment? (4) Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew. (5) And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath.
There is a Haman who does not like Christians. A Haman who is against God's people. I refuse to bow down or respect a person like that. People like that are the dogs dung. They are filth and full of garbage and wrath. When Christians stand up against Tyranny and start dowing something for God there is a Haman who will try to rise up and extinguish them. What the Hamans of this world have failed to remember is that there is a God. A God who loves his people and hates the wicked. A God who upholds the righteous with His right hand and strengthens the feeble. A God who has promised that all things work together for good to those who Love God!!
Esther 7:9-10 And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken good for the king, standeth in the house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon. (10) So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.
May God protect His people and may the plans of the Hamans in this world backfire upon them. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with those who call on His Name!!
In Jesus Name.
There is a Haman who does not like Christians. A Haman who is against God's people. I refuse to bow down or respect a person like that. People like that are the dogs dung. They are filth and full of garbage and wrath. When Christians stand up against Tyranny and start dowing something for God there is a Haman who will try to rise up and extinguish them. What the Hamans of this world have failed to remember is that there is a God. A God who loves his people and hates the wicked. A God who upholds the righteous with His right hand and strengthens the feeble. A God who has promised that all things work together for good to those who Love God!!
Esther 7:9-10 And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken good for the king, standeth in the house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon. (10) So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.
May God protect His people and may the plans of the Hamans in this world backfire upon them. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with those who call on His Name!!
In Jesus Name.
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!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Hip Hip Hooray - Mom & Dad are gone...wait whose babysitting...the Pitbull!
OUT OF THE PAN INTO THE FIRE YOU GO!!! Check this article out.....
Soldiers "told us to go. They removed our tents but we will stay. We want another government. We need civilian government. They want to steal our revolution."
Another man, Ahmed Abed Ghafur, said:
"This is a revolution, not a half-revolution. We need a timetable for elections. We need an interim government," not one by generals. "We need a (civilian) committee for a new constitution. Once we get all that, then we can leave the square."
Reports said skirmishes broke out. At least 30 arrests were made. Detainees were taken to a military compound near Egypt's museum where others arrested earlier were beaten and tortured.
Others worry that military authorities won't keep promises, including ending martial and emergency law rule. They're part of Egypt's ruling class aligned with business, other elite interests, Washington, Israel and the West.
Under Mubarak, they were hostile to social, political and economic demands, including human and civil rights, better jobs, higher wages, improved living conditions, and democratic reforms. Why now should they change, including by fulfilling promises perhaps made to be broken?
_________________________________________________
What did they expect? The Army is ruling and you want them to give power to who??? Civilians. Yeah Right! Wake up people. The world and Egypt are going to be quite shocked when they come to find out the one who is babysitting Egypt now is the family Pitbull.
I am reminded by a people who yelled out against Jesus and said, "He is not our King. Ceaser is our King." Oh he gave them what they wanted and boy did they regret it.
It makes me think about what we may be sacrificing and turning over in our life. What have we given up for the sake of improvement or a better life only to find ourself in bondages. Quite Scary isn't it. May our eyes be open to the reality that God and the life in Him is the best choice we can ever make.
In Jesus Name!!
Soldiers "told us to go. They removed our tents but we will stay. We want another government. We need civilian government. They want to steal our revolution."
Another man, Ahmed Abed Ghafur, said:
"This is a revolution, not a half-revolution. We need a timetable for elections. We need an interim government," not one by generals. "We need a (civilian) committee for a new constitution. Once we get all that, then we can leave the square."
Reports said skirmishes broke out. At least 30 arrests were made. Detainees were taken to a military compound near Egypt's museum where others arrested earlier were beaten and tortured.
Others worry that military authorities won't keep promises, including ending martial and emergency law rule. They're part of Egypt's ruling class aligned with business, other elite interests, Washington, Israel and the West.
Under Mubarak, they were hostile to social, political and economic demands, including human and civil rights, better jobs, higher wages, improved living conditions, and democratic reforms. Why now should they change, including by fulfilling promises perhaps made to be broken?
_________________________________________________
What did they expect? The Army is ruling and you want them to give power to who??? Civilians. Yeah Right! Wake up people. The world and Egypt are going to be quite shocked when they come to find out the one who is babysitting Egypt now is the family Pitbull.
I am reminded by a people who yelled out against Jesus and said, "He is not our King. Ceaser is our King." Oh he gave them what they wanted and boy did they regret it.
It makes me think about what we may be sacrificing and turning over in our life. What have we given up for the sake of improvement or a better life only to find ourself in bondages. Quite Scary isn't it. May our eyes be open to the reality that God and the life in Him is the best choice we can ever make.
In Jesus Name!!
Friday, February 11, 2011
They yell...CHANGE THE CONSTITUTION...
As I watched the news I began to hear that the Egyptian people were crying out and yelling demanding that the constititution be thrown out and a new one written. Being a middle eastern and interested in Escatology I found this quite interesting. What I really found interesting is how many americans on CNN and other News Programs were supporting such a move. Can you imagine if this happened in America? We would be considered traitors, defectors and cowards. I know that many people believe the Egyptian Constitution is bad or corrupted and the people need a new one. Yet, I think America butting in and pushing such an idea and support of this will back fire in our face as does anything else we do in the Middle East. Folks why do we not get it. The muslims in the middle east do not like us. We are the devil. Satan and the corruptor of lives. In some point, just watching television I see what they mean. Yet at the same time I believe they are the pot calling the kettle black.
We can not become the hypocrites people have pegged us out to be. I mean Egypt was all good and fine and then Obama goes to visit it and before he lands in America Egypt goes into a riot. What happened? We are like the uncle no one wants to visit or have come over because everytime they do they cause a big mess.
The must sobering thing is this is getting closer to the end times. We are just slowly moving West and before you know it, it is our turn. Jesus said it so it will come to pass. Wait, I should be raptured by now. Oh yeah I don't believe that. It will be very scary as we American Tax payers start paying for Egypts Reform. Yes, you heard it right we are going to pay for it. Our money will go to Egypt and its reform. Not only that I wonder who is going to take over and steal that money??? I guess we will have to wait and see.
We can not become the hypocrites people have pegged us out to be. I mean Egypt was all good and fine and then Obama goes to visit it and before he lands in America Egypt goes into a riot. What happened? We are like the uncle no one wants to visit or have come over because everytime they do they cause a big mess.
The must sobering thing is this is getting closer to the end times. We are just slowly moving West and before you know it, it is our turn. Jesus said it so it will come to pass. Wait, I should be raptured by now. Oh yeah I don't believe that. It will be very scary as we American Tax payers start paying for Egypts Reform. Yes, you heard it right we are going to pay for it. Our money will go to Egypt and its reform. Not only that I wonder who is going to take over and steal that money??? I guess we will have to wait and see.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Say Goodbye To Claude Mattox!!!!
Claude Mattox has been part of the City Council for 8 years. Our City is now known of having the worst education and the worst jobs. Claude Mattox is part of the problem and not the solution. If he could not get it right in 8 years what makes him think he can get it done as a Mayor.
The Record of Claude Mattox:
1) Calls Christians who have bible studies out of their homes: RELIGIOUS ZEALOTS
2) Prohibits Home Bible Studies and is against those who worship at their home.
3) Believes Churches in Communities are a nusiance and have caused many parking and traffic issues and they need to be restricted.
4) Voted Against Churches and religious institutions by changing parking restrictions.
5) Refused to react when Christians called and sent letters requesting intervention to the religious prosecutions against Christians.
6) When Christians were requesting help to the City Council Claude Mattox got up and walked off as if indicating he has no time for such foolishness.
Claude Mattox is not the man for this City. The only reason he won his district is because no one else ran against him. He has neglected to become involved in the issues of our City when it came to immigration. Even though his district carries many of the issues of immigration he remained silent. He does not care for people who even stands for his beliefs but rather plays politics.
We need to say Good bye to Claude Mattox!!! Pass this on! Put this in your blogs, emails, on the web and search engines. SAY GOOD BYE TO MATTOX!!!
The Record of Claude Mattox:
1) Calls Christians who have bible studies out of their homes: RELIGIOUS ZEALOTS
2) Prohibits Home Bible Studies and is against those who worship at their home.
3) Believes Churches in Communities are a nusiance and have caused many parking and traffic issues and they need to be restricted.
4) Voted Against Churches and religious institutions by changing parking restrictions.
5) Refused to react when Christians called and sent letters requesting intervention to the religious prosecutions against Christians.
6) When Christians were requesting help to the City Council Claude Mattox got up and walked off as if indicating he has no time for such foolishness.
Claude Mattox is not the man for this City. The only reason he won his district is because no one else ran against him. He has neglected to become involved in the issues of our City when it came to immigration. Even though his district carries many of the issues of immigration he remained silent. He does not care for people who even stands for his beliefs but rather plays politics.
We need to say Good bye to Claude Mattox!!! Pass this on! Put this in your blogs, emails, on the web and search engines. SAY GOOD BYE TO MATTOX!!!
Plan Update...
Well we received our plan corrections from the reviewers. I still can not believe that these are the things that need to be done to have private worship. It is also coming to the time when the City of Phoenix need to respond to the notice of intent to sue. It is going to be a very eventful week. Suzanne and I are getting prepared to do the things we need to do to defend our rights and the rights of all those who chose to worship and have studies out of their home. So please pray for us. I want to thank all of you who have shown so much support for us. Thank you.
One of the things they are requesting us to do is run a 600 foot taper running North from our property. This will tear up two of our neighbors yards. I personally do not understand why they are requesting such a long taper but if that is what they are requesting and we have to do it then we have no choice. One of the traffic guys stated that we can appeal. LOL. NO WAY! Appeal yeah right. Last time we appealled we were sent through the ringer. Not this time. We will just do it. The crazy this is that this taper will run almost all the way to Belmont the street just North of us. Also a 150 foot taper running South. It will look like a huge funnel into our home. I personally do not get it but if so be it so be. Of course we will fight the whole thing in our own appeal. In the U.S. District Court. So please continue to pray for us.
Also the Mayoral race is on this year. Guess who is running for Mayor??? CLAUDE MATTOX. Can you believe that, Mayor?? Not if I can help it. Suzanne and I are contacting all our friends and making sure this man is not voted in. NO WAY! He needs to go. Claude Mattox is not a friend of the constitution or of religious people. This man has caused so much grief to us and other religious communities. It is time for him to go!! My wife and I are voting for Stanton. We believe this man is a family man and involved in many charitable religious works, is the man who should represent and give us a voice in Phoenix. As for City Council District 5, please pray because I am thinking about running for District 5. I not only want to represent the people but also protect our constitution and the rights of the people and stop all those religious lawsuits that are costing our City 1000's because politians want to please the people rather than obeying the law. We will also be looking to see who the canidates are who are running and try to find someone who has the same values as Stanton. Please pray and please pass the word. It is time that we as a Christian Community tell all those politians who have voted against us and against our rights that it is the end for you! STANTON for MAYOR!
One of the things they are requesting us to do is run a 600 foot taper running North from our property. This will tear up two of our neighbors yards. I personally do not understand why they are requesting such a long taper but if that is what they are requesting and we have to do it then we have no choice. One of the traffic guys stated that we can appeal. LOL. NO WAY! Appeal yeah right. Last time we appealled we were sent through the ringer. Not this time. We will just do it. The crazy this is that this taper will run almost all the way to Belmont the street just North of us. Also a 150 foot taper running South. It will look like a huge funnel into our home. I personally do not get it but if so be it so be. Of course we will fight the whole thing in our own appeal. In the U.S. District Court. So please continue to pray for us.
Also the Mayoral race is on this year. Guess who is running for Mayor??? CLAUDE MATTOX. Can you believe that, Mayor?? Not if I can help it. Suzanne and I are contacting all our friends and making sure this man is not voted in. NO WAY! He needs to go. Claude Mattox is not a friend of the constitution or of religious people. This man has caused so much grief to us and other religious communities. It is time for him to go!! My wife and I are voting for Stanton. We believe this man is a family man and involved in many charitable religious works, is the man who should represent and give us a voice in Phoenix. As for City Council District 5, please pray because I am thinking about running for District 5. I not only want to represent the people but also protect our constitution and the rights of the people and stop all those religious lawsuits that are costing our City 1000's because politians want to please the people rather than obeying the law. We will also be looking to see who the canidates are who are running and try to find someone who has the same values as Stanton. Please pray and please pass the word. It is time that we as a Christian Community tell all those politians who have voted against us and against our rights that it is the end for you! STANTON for MAYOR!
Friday, January 28, 2011
Our Legal Demand Letter
Alright all you Christians, brothers and sisters in Christ. All of you who conduct home bible studies in Phoenix, Arizona here is something you should know and hear:
TRANSCRIPT TRIAL August 17th, 2010
Michael Salman
"If i have a 30 minute bible study in my home on a weekly basis would I have to convert my home to a church."
FRANK DANCIL - BUILDING INSPECTOR AND SUPERVISOR
"That is correct."
MS: What if I have a Birthday Party.
FD: No because that is considered incidental use.
MS: So bible studies yes but biorthday parties no.
FD: Thats correct per the building official
MS: So who determines whether somethng needs to be converted versus not be converted?"
FD: The Building Officials Interpertation.
THIS IS JUST A TOUCH OF WHAT IS IN THE SCRIPTS. THE REST WILL BLOW YOUR SOCKS OFF. The person who decides whether or not your bible studies should be residential or go commercial is nto the law but a person sitting behind a desk. I can only pray that this guy loves God or that his or her spouse did not upset them when they made these determinations. Folks this is what our laws protect us from. Individualized assements. When people lay aside the law and rules and go by what someone feels than we have a problem. This is not what our nation is built on. We are a democracy and not a monarchy. We sent this letter giving the City of Phoenix and their officials 10 days to make things right. Otherwise we are filing a lawsuit. We understand that this is a battle but it is one that is detramental to our faith and our practice of our faith in our home and even in your home. May Christ give us the same wisdom and power that he gave those who preceeded us in this fight. In Jesus Name!
Michael & Suzanne Salman
7601 N. 31st Ave
Phoenix, Arizona 85051
602-299-9217
LETTER OF INTENT TO SUE
To: City of Phoenix Developmental Services, Planning Department, City Council Office, Mayors Office, City Prosecutors, and et. al. and To all and whom this may concern,
This letter serves as intent to sue. Your departments located in the City of Phoenix including the developmental services department and others are in violation of our constitutional rights. This serves as a 10 day notice to withdraw all prosecutions and harassments or we will be forced to file a complaint in the United States District Court for the violations hereby stated:
1) On or about May of 2009 Michael Salman was forced to appear in the City of Phoenix Municipal Court for City Code and Building Code Violations. The interpretation of the codes indicated that the activity conducted on the property of 7601 N. 31st Ave, Phoenix, Arizona 85051 was that of public assembly. Even though no proof has been shown that the Salmans were conducting Public Assembly, the interpretations that the religious gatherings on the property constitute a public assembly and so must conform to commercial standards. This negligence to the rights of the Salmans and a misinterpretation of the laws and codes is in extreme error. The City officials have taken the stand that whether public or private any religious gatherings of 2 or more people constitute a church and so must conform to assembly use standards. This in turn has caused a major and purposeful misinterpretation of the code. Further, after notification, the continuance of upholding this interpretation has caused and is causing a blatant and intentional violation of the 1st Amendment Right to Assemble, Free Exercise of Religion, The Arizona Free Religious Exercise Act and RLUIPA.
ALSO,
2) On or About January of 2009 the City of Phoenix Sign Department and Developmental Services began harassing the Salmans because they have religious decorations and declarations on the property. A cross and a reader board that declares scriptures and messages. The Salmans were informed that they needed to remove the signs or get a sign permit for the signs because they fall under the sign ordinance. The Salmans argued that this is their 1st Amendment Right to Freedom of Speech and Exercise of Religion, which cannot be regulated by the government unless there is some form of compelling governmental interest. Further the Salmans argued that these were not signs according to definition but rather expressions or speeches protected by the constitution. The City of Phoenix investigators and officials ignored such statements and on November of 2010 violated Suzanne Salman for erecting a sign without a permit.
In Conclusion,
The City of Phoenix City officials and investigators all John Does and Jane Does who are involved believe that they can trample on the rights of Americans and so violate them as they see fit. This type of prosecution is un-American. We live in the United States of America and should be protected by the government officials who have sworn to defend the constitution. Instead these same officials who were sworn to defend and uphold the constitution is going against it because of the few who complain that private religious activities should be regulated and controlled by the government.
This type of prosecution has caused and is causing great and irreparable harm to the Salmans including stress, grief and injustice. It is evident that the Salmans are highly religious people who stand on their religious convections and beliefs. If these violations are not withdrawn in 10 calendar days we will be forced to file a complaint in the court requesting relief and compensatory, punitive and actual damages.
TRANSCRIPT TRIAL August 17th, 2010
Michael Salman
"If i have a 30 minute bible study in my home on a weekly basis would I have to convert my home to a church."
FRANK DANCIL - BUILDING INSPECTOR AND SUPERVISOR
"That is correct."
MS: What if I have a Birthday Party.
FD: No because that is considered incidental use.
MS: So bible studies yes but biorthday parties no.
FD: Thats correct per the building official
MS: So who determines whether somethng needs to be converted versus not be converted?"
FD: The Building Officials Interpertation.
THIS IS JUST A TOUCH OF WHAT IS IN THE SCRIPTS. THE REST WILL BLOW YOUR SOCKS OFF. The person who decides whether or not your bible studies should be residential or go commercial is nto the law but a person sitting behind a desk. I can only pray that this guy loves God or that his or her spouse did not upset them when they made these determinations. Folks this is what our laws protect us from. Individualized assements. When people lay aside the law and rules and go by what someone feels than we have a problem. This is not what our nation is built on. We are a democracy and not a monarchy. We sent this letter giving the City of Phoenix and their officials 10 days to make things right. Otherwise we are filing a lawsuit. We understand that this is a battle but it is one that is detramental to our faith and our practice of our faith in our home and even in your home. May Christ give us the same wisdom and power that he gave those who preceeded us in this fight. In Jesus Name!
Michael & Suzanne Salman
7601 N. 31st Ave
Phoenix, Arizona 85051
602-299-9217
LETTER OF INTENT TO SUE
To: City of Phoenix Developmental Services, Planning Department, City Council Office, Mayors Office, City Prosecutors, and et. al. and To all and whom this may concern,
This letter serves as intent to sue. Your departments located in the City of Phoenix including the developmental services department and others are in violation of our constitutional rights. This serves as a 10 day notice to withdraw all prosecutions and harassments or we will be forced to file a complaint in the United States District Court for the violations hereby stated:
1) On or about May of 2009 Michael Salman was forced to appear in the City of Phoenix Municipal Court for City Code and Building Code Violations. The interpretation of the codes indicated that the activity conducted on the property of 7601 N. 31st Ave, Phoenix, Arizona 85051 was that of public assembly. Even though no proof has been shown that the Salmans were conducting Public Assembly, the interpretations that the religious gatherings on the property constitute a public assembly and so must conform to commercial standards. This negligence to the rights of the Salmans and a misinterpretation of the laws and codes is in extreme error. The City officials have taken the stand that whether public or private any religious gatherings of 2 or more people constitute a church and so must conform to assembly use standards. This in turn has caused a major and purposeful misinterpretation of the code. Further, after notification, the continuance of upholding this interpretation has caused and is causing a blatant and intentional violation of the 1st Amendment Right to Assemble, Free Exercise of Religion, The Arizona Free Religious Exercise Act and RLUIPA.
ALSO,
2) On or About January of 2009 the City of Phoenix Sign Department and Developmental Services began harassing the Salmans because they have religious decorations and declarations on the property. A cross and a reader board that declares scriptures and messages. The Salmans were informed that they needed to remove the signs or get a sign permit for the signs because they fall under the sign ordinance. The Salmans argued that this is their 1st Amendment Right to Freedom of Speech and Exercise of Religion, which cannot be regulated by the government unless there is some form of compelling governmental interest. Further the Salmans argued that these were not signs according to definition but rather expressions or speeches protected by the constitution. The City of Phoenix investigators and officials ignored such statements and on November of 2010 violated Suzanne Salman for erecting a sign without a permit.
In Conclusion,
The City of Phoenix City officials and investigators all John Does and Jane Does who are involved believe that they can trample on the rights of Americans and so violate them as they see fit. This type of prosecution is un-American. We live in the United States of America and should be protected by the government officials who have sworn to defend the constitution. Instead these same officials who were sworn to defend and uphold the constitution is going against it because of the few who complain that private religious activities should be regulated and controlled by the government.
This type of prosecution has caused and is causing great and irreparable harm to the Salmans including stress, grief and injustice. It is evident that the Salmans are highly religious people who stand on their religious convections and beliefs. If these violations are not withdrawn in 10 calendar days we will be forced to file a complaint in the court requesting relief and compensatory, punitive and actual damages.
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."
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Halloween Is Evil....PERIOD!!!
Yes, it is about that time again when Christians who have no biblical backing have to be taught the most basic of doctrine. I do not say this to be condesending but only to show the ignorance and stupidity of churches who celebrate this holiday which is not Christian in nature but rather evil. I know what many Christians are saying, "Well this is a perfect opportunity to reach the lost by putting tracks in their bags or by giving them an alternative...yadda yadda blah blah blah...." Folks we do not dress like Elton John to reach homosexuals, so why do we think we have to dress like angels to tell people not to glorify or celebrate such a holiday. What hypocrisy!!!! If you think I am being harsh against this demonic holiday in nature I AM!! I hate this holiday and Christians who try to disguise it by calling it a Harvest Festival or Fall Festival are fooling themselves. Unless you are trully a farmer. Folks whether you are pitching or catching you are still playing baseball. Think about it and think real hard about it.,,
Halloween Glorifies:
Death - Horror - Fear - Darkness - Witchcraft and NEED I SAY MORE... EVERYTHING that Christians do not nor should have a part of period.
On Focus on the family a Witch who was high in the satanic realm after coming to Christ, said this, "If Christian parents really understood what goes on during the Halloween season, they would wash their kids mouth anytime they even mention the holiday." I agree with him.
Folks, the bible is very specific:
1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Ephesians 5:11-12 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (12) For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
2 Corinthians 6:14-16 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? (15) And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? (16) And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Need I say more. Folks I left a church because they decided after discussion and debate to still celebrate the holiday by calling it a harvest festival.
For those who are still not convinced? Do you have an alternative to Purim, Passover, Feast of Tabernacles, Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets....These are all Jewish holidays that our Christ celebrated....What is your alternative to that??? I bet your answer is, "were not Jewish." EXACTLY.....Well were are not the world either.
Halloween Glorifies:
Death - Horror - Fear - Darkness - Witchcraft and NEED I SAY MORE... EVERYTHING that Christians do not nor should have a part of period.
On Focus on the family a Witch who was high in the satanic realm after coming to Christ, said this, "If Christian parents really understood what goes on during the Halloween season, they would wash their kids mouth anytime they even mention the holiday." I agree with him.
Folks, the bible is very specific:
1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Ephesians 5:11-12 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (12) For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
2 Corinthians 6:14-16 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? (15) And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? (16) And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Need I say more. Folks I left a church because they decided after discussion and debate to still celebrate the holiday by calling it a harvest festival.
For those who are still not convinced? Do you have an alternative to Purim, Passover, Feast of Tabernacles, Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets....These are all Jewish holidays that our Christ celebrated....What is your alternative to that??? I bet your answer is, "were not Jewish." EXACTLY.....Well were are not the world either.
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.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Prosecution For Religious Beliefs
This past week has been to say the least, "interesting week." As some of you know on Monday, I was found responsible for the violations that existed on the property. I was responsible for the violations like Demolition of a Pool, Putting electrical circuits in the garage, misusing an extension cord, putting up a Costco tent without proper permits or foundation and too close to a building. Putting chairs that were used for worship in the storage in the rear. Folks this is not a joke. Really if you move in a house and your previous owner did work on the property without a permit and the city finds out 4 years after you moved in that there was no permit you are responsible and violated.
Here is the dussy. I was also prosecuted for conducting Christian worship on the property. The Judge who I believe is a good judge and fair through out the trial made a comment, she stated, "I hope Mr. Salman understands that he is not being prosecuted for religious worship on the property only that if he wants to have worship on the property he must conform to the requirements and the standards that the city is asking." This statement sounds very fair. But is it really the truth? Am I not being prosecuted for religious worship. Here is what I mean.
During the trial the City witnesses stated that if I had birthday parties on the property I do not need these things, If I had used the room to play games I do not need these things. Yet, because I gather to worship on the property in a building that looks like a religious building with chairs, pulpit, art and stuff I must conform my property to commercial standards. The fact is I AM BEING PROSECUTED because I worship on the property with my family and friends. PERIOD. If I had a big screen T.V. with football posters and art and pool table and bar and stuff they would not violate me for a Sports Bar. EVERYONE of those who worship with me, know we DO NOT publicly advertise. We do not have signs, or service times in the front or on a website. We are private individuals and so forth.
Nonetheless, I believe the laws that are in place are wrong and discriminatory and I will put my money where my mouth is. May God give me strength and we battle this injustice. Please pray as we get through this. IN JESUS NAME!
Here is the dussy. I was also prosecuted for conducting Christian worship on the property. The Judge who I believe is a good judge and fair through out the trial made a comment, she stated, "I hope Mr. Salman understands that he is not being prosecuted for religious worship on the property only that if he wants to have worship on the property he must conform to the requirements and the standards that the city is asking." This statement sounds very fair. But is it really the truth? Am I not being prosecuted for religious worship. Here is what I mean.
During the trial the City witnesses stated that if I had birthday parties on the property I do not need these things, If I had used the room to play games I do not need these things. Yet, because I gather to worship on the property in a building that looks like a religious building with chairs, pulpit, art and stuff I must conform my property to commercial standards. The fact is I AM BEING PROSECUTED because I worship on the property with my family and friends. PERIOD. If I had a big screen T.V. with football posters and art and pool table and bar and stuff they would not violate me for a Sports Bar. EVERYONE of those who worship with me, know we DO NOT publicly advertise. We do not have signs, or service times in the front or on a website. We are private individuals and so forth.
Nonetheless, I believe the laws that are in place are wrong and discriminatory and I will put my money where my mouth is. May God give me strength and we battle this injustice. Please pray as we get through this. IN JESUS NAME!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Its All Good - Trial
For those of you know what the theme is for this past month it is "Its all good." Today we completed a 5 day trial. During the trial we made our points to the best we can. We filed our paperwork and did what we needed to do. There really is not more we could have done. I believe we did the best anyone can do. Nonetheless, I was found guilty and a responsible party for the violations that existed on the property. The reason I was found guilty was not due to the evidence that I was seen doing it, ordered it or anything like that but rather because I live there. Let me say that I am sure glad no one committed murder because then I would really be in trouble. Since I live there I would have been responsible.
On the bright side we were not discouraged. We believe we are in the hands of God and to be prosecuted for worshipping God is really not that bad. A blessing if you must. There has been a lot of stress on our family but nonetheless it is the same thing you go through just because you go through it. The verdict has catapulted us to the Federal Arena. The judge stated in her verdict that she was not here to argue the law. This is true, she can not change the law. Even thou we were not asking her to, only that this law not be applied to us but rather to public assemblies which we are not. Oh well what can you do. This is why it is important to take this to another venue because there are courts that are there to change the law. This is our goal not only for us but for all Christians who have worship in thier homes and should not fear persecution because neighbors don't want a "CHURCH" there.
Please pray earnestly and fervently for us as we make our way through. God has and is bringing victory to us in the name of Jesus.
On the bright side we were not discouraged. We believe we are in the hands of God and to be prosecuted for worshipping God is really not that bad. A blessing if you must. There has been a lot of stress on our family but nonetheless it is the same thing you go through just because you go through it. The verdict has catapulted us to the Federal Arena. The judge stated in her verdict that she was not here to argue the law. This is true, she can not change the law. Even thou we were not asking her to, only that this law not be applied to us but rather to public assemblies which we are not. Oh well what can you do. This is why it is important to take this to another venue because there are courts that are there to change the law. This is our goal not only for us but for all Christians who have worship in thier homes and should not fear persecution because neighbors don't want a "CHURCH" there.
Please pray earnestly and fervently for us as we make our way through. God has and is bringing victory to us in the name of Jesus.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)