Do Not Be Lukewarm Anymore!

Jesus tells Christians they should NOT be lukewarm.  Instead it is better to be hot (seasoned believer fervantly working for Christ) or cold (potentially useful if wanting to grow in Christ).  So what is meant by lukewarm?  Lukewarms are wishy-washy people who straddle the fence between stagnant faith and desiring wordly things.  Some churches may define this as a moderate person or a modern believer, however Jesus would not agree.

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!  

So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.  

- Revelation 3:15-16 (NIV)

How do you know if you have become lukewarm?  Would you answer YES to these questions?  

• Do you just attend church as part of your religion and listen without really hearing the message?
• Do you feel it is okay to indulge in "little" sins as long as you are not hurting anyone else?

How do you move from being lukewarm to an acceptable temperature?  

• Spend more time with God each day by praying and reading your Bible.
• Socialize with fellow Christians that will help you to grow in your faith.
• Get involved with your Church and learn how to share God with others.

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this: 

He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.

- Psalm 37:5-6 (NIV)

Stop straddling the fence between what Jesus wants for you and your own sinful desires.  Do not be lukewarm anymore, instead grow and develop into what Christ wants you to be so that you may gain everlasting life.  While your at it, try to take some others with you to Heaven.

Should Churches Be Accepting of Immorality?

 Many church leaders and appalled Christians spoke out about the  disgusting and offensive displays that were part of the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony.  They called for apologies, boycotts, and prayers as their way to protest the spectacle since the games are usually exclude athletes from any religious displays.  Yet, those same leaders do not recognize that they have been allowing this immorlity to grow and spread over the last few decades with their silence and attempts at inclusion.  Yes, Jesus wants us to love others and bring them into the church, but He also requires them to repent of their sins and leave those sins behind to remain in the church.

When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin.

But I wasn’t talking about unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin,

or are greedy, or cheat people, or worship idols. 

You would have to leave this world to avoid people like that.

I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer

yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, 

or is a drunkard, or cheats people.

Don’t even eat with such people. - 1 Corinthians 5:9-11 (NLT)

Some of the newest watered-down dictionary definitions of immorality include: wickedness. evilness, or sexual misconduct (aka fornication, lust, harassment, lewdness, perversion). Should Churches continue to accept the watering-down of immorality in the false name of inclusion?  Some say they must allow it to get new members as they are losing members because people continue to fall away from the church.  Has anyone considered the "falling away" may be caused by not teaching the full Word of God?  Stop  diluting the Bible or deleting some scriptures to placate less than 5% of the population who choose NOT to follow God's Word. Instead really teach what God says so that congregations understand what to reject and when to object.

Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; 

instead, expose them. - Ephesians 5:11 (NLT)

Many preachers also teach the church body should not involve themselves in politics, but it is politics that got the church and the rest of the world into such a mess. Christian leaders need to be sure they are not inviting politicians to their pulpit who will continue to drive a wedge between the church and the people it needs to reach or who support issues that are contrary to Bible teaching.  Instead, become leaders for good and point out what is against to the truth in the Word of God.  

Invitation Postscript: New Goal, New People, New Future

The upward trend of inflation and downward trend of the economy physically affects people individually and as family.  It also affects everyone emotionally and spiritually too!  They are drained of joy and hope.  We cannot do much about about the economy, except look for better jobs and pray for the right one.  However, we can provide a path back to joy and hope through friendliness and fellowship.  How?  Invite them to church and let them know you are praying for them when they share their troubles with you. Most people say they do not attend church because no one has invited them  or made them feel welcome when they did attend.  Remind people  that you care and that God still loves them. 

"Be careful for yourselves and for all the people God has given you. 
The Holy Spirit gave you the work of caring for this flock.
You must be shepherds to the church of God,
the people he bought with his own blood." - Acts 20:26 (ERV)

The shutdown not only affected businesses and families, it affected churches too.  Just as companies still had to pay their bills and employees; churches still needed to provide for their staff , run ministries to the needy, and help those in their congregation who were suffering.  Just like families had to pay rent/mortgages and utilities during the shutdown, churches had to as well.  If no one came, then few paid tithes or gave offerings since no plate was passed.  Some churches did not make it through the forced shutdowns - and that made the devil laugh.  Some churches are still barely hanging on since many found staying home so easy - that too makes satan smile.  The evil one thinks he has won!  Make it clear he has not! GOD WINS! The faithful will continue to grow! Attend church and bring your family.  Fill the churches again!  Invite people to church!

"We must not quit meeting together, as some are doing.

No, we need to keep on encouraging each other.

This becomes more and more important as you see the day getting closer. "
-  Hebrews 10:25 (ERV)

Commit to this as a New Year's goal that you keep doing throughout the year(s).  Some reading this post will feel comfortable asking a few people to church, as their faith is strong.  Others may feel uncomfortable doing so.  You may worry about the current anti-Christian environment or offending someone.  Instead of fear, look at this as a way to grow your faith! Whether you are comfortable talking with people about your faith or not, you can start with a baby step using social media.  Try adding this simple note to the bottom of your posts "PS #YouAreInvitedToChurch ..." Change the "..." to a hyperlink to your church website or Facebook page.  Most people are interested to find out what someone felt was important enough to add as a postscript to their message.  They will read this and potentially respond accordingly.  Go viral, let's get #YouAreInvitedToChurch trending! 

Catching Blessings

A few months before our pastor retired, he would have us reach out our hands and he would pray a blessing over us.  Once I opened my eyes to see if others were holding their hands the same way I was.  Some had their arms slightly raised with the palms either facing up or toward the pulpit, almost as if they were waiting to catch a fast ball in their hands.  Many had their arms near or slightly above the waist-line with their palms up.  Some had their fingers spread as if waiting for something big to fall into them.  Others had their fingers tightly together as if trying to prevent the blessing from slipping through their fingers.  It was interesting that everyone was anticipating their blessings in different ways. Did you ever think about that - being ready to receive your gifts from God? 

"Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father,

who created all the lights in the heavens.  He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. 

And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession." - James 1:17-18 (NLT)

After our pastors retirement, a visiting preacher wanted to pray a blessing for us individually and as a church. He showed us how he wanted us to turn our palms upward and hold our hands out from the side of our bodies in a posture ready to receive the gifts God had for us.  This posture made me think of a small child playing ball with a parent.  The child opens their arms outward, turns his hands up, and usually spreads their fingers out too.  They make their catching area as big as they possibly can to increase their chances of catching the ball.  Then once they get the ball, they pull it tightly to their chest.  Then in their excitement of receiving the ball they either giddily giggle or smile really big.  The child knows the joy of expecting the ball and they are cofidnet in their heart that their parent is willing to keep tossing it to them. 

"But blessed are those who trust in the Lord 

and have made the Lord their hope and confidence." - Jeremiah 17:7 (NLT)

Are you genuinely expecting your blessings from God?  Like a child, is your heart and you arms wide open and ready to catch them?  You should understand God is there for you anytime and will continue to give you His very best gifts.  Knowing that could make you burst out laughing or at least smile happily at this not-so-secret truth.  If you do not feel blessed and joyful, maybe you are looking at the wrong things in life rather than the good and perfect-for-you gifts God has already provided or wants to give.

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Why Should Christians Attend Church?

What are the pros and cons of not physically attending church services?  With virtual church becoming a norm in society today, is it causing complications for individual Christian living, for the community the church supports, or is it more of a building-use issue?  Are Christians neglecting to attend and support churches on Sunday, as well as other days of the week?  Do they need to?  If spiritual growth and awakening is what Christians want or need, should they get together in a building to worship and learn?  With the technologies that exist today, is church attendance really necessary? 

"Until I come,devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture,

to preaching and to teaching." - 1 Timothy 4:13 (NIV)

Society started moving to churches without walls during the late 20th century "Jesus movement."  That was not the first movement of Jesus Christ to question how to be a child of God and it will not be the last.  Jesus started His church with a wandering group of disciples, who later become itinerant evangelists and apostles.  Although the apostles moved a lot, they did work hard at  planting church groups.  Why? So Christ's followers (Christians) could increase their faith, worship, and grow spiritually together under the guidance and leadership of a selected responsible and mature believer who would teach God's word and demonstrate His love in a way they could easily understand.  

Excellent posts to read more on this include:

• Why Is it Important to Go to Church? 7 Reasons from Christianity.com
• Why Attending Church is So Important  - 4 Reasons from Think Eternity blog 
• Why Go to Church When You Can Watch Online? from Christian Post for minister viewpoints
• Why the Church Is Vitally Important for Every Christian - Crossway's 5 Points on Church in the Bible
• 
  

Are You Entitled to God's Blessings?

There is so many bad things going on in the world today that you are discouraged.  Other undeserving people seem to have more than you so you begin to feel somehow cheated. Are you feeling like God is not answering your prayers?  What attitude are you going to God with?  What are you believing for and why?

Too many churches are more concerned about filling seats than teaching the Word of God.  As a result, there are too many preachers delivering messages of prosperity instead of salvation.  Pre-sermon time has turned into entertainment by a larger group of singers and musicians instead of leading the congregation in praising God through song and prayer.   As a result, instead of reverencing God people feel God owes them for showing up on the Sabbath Day.  Are you entitled to an abundance of God's blessings just because you say you are Christian or have membership in a particular church?  

"A man’s pride and sense of self-importance will bring him down, 

But he who has a humble spirit will obtain honor." - Proverbs 29:23 (AMP) 

Instead, are you a loved child of God who is grateful to have all their needs met? Do you recognize that you  are expected to work and show yourself ready for additional privileges from God? Being loved or blessed should never mean being overly "spoiled" with everything you want.  God wants to give you gifts, but He does not give you everything you feel you want or think you might be entitled to just because you believe in Him.

Find more in the following stories and examples from Christian blogs and religion articles:

• Entitlement Will Rob You of Rest 
• God's Promises and Blessings [and Conditions] - includes a long list of scriptures
• Pray for God’s Blessings, rather than Feeling Entitled
• The Entitled Christian - includes 3 scriptures without Biblical reference given

Having Done All, Stand

As a Christian, you are called to be a soldier for the God and His truth.  You must never forget that you are part of a great army for His work.  Christians offer so much good to other people through various Church missions, ministries, and community outreaches.  So it is not surprising that you might  wonder why people seem to be against the God's goodness.  Who could be behind this anger at God and His people?  Why would anyone want to make trouble rather than endorse the good works?  

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" - Ephesians 6:10-18 (KJV) 

The Bible tells of both physical and spiritual wars that have been and will come.  Christian soldiers are told how to prepare for spiritual battle in Ephesians.  You are encouraged to pray, prepare, and put on the full armour of God.  In doing so you will be able to stand firm in your convictions and purpose.

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Five Spiritual Gifts of Ministry

Most think of ministry gifts as belonging to those in authority in the Church.  These leadership roles  typically fall to someone who has been to seminary school.  Church leaders do need to be educated in the Holy Bible and theology in order to teach and guide others.  Although most are called to these roles and pursue the necessary education to receive the title, some are called to take on guidance and teaching roles using training outside seminary.  

God can use you for His work too!  if you are not called to preach, you may be called to teach or write.  Pray for guidance before pursuing any ministry role in order to receive the training, skills, and attitude necessary to proceed.  If God reveals He has other plans for you, then that plan may fulfilled through other spiritual gifts. 

"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, 
pastors and teachers;  For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, 
for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, 
and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, 
unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ" - Ephesians 4:11-13 (KJV)

Below is information on the 5 spiritual gifts of ministry roles:

• Apostle (aka Church Planter, Missionary) is a person who takes the gospel to new places.  They spread the Word of God and help create new churches.  They may provide leadership and advice on spiritual matters for new churches and ministries.  
• Evangelist (aka Revivalist, Traveling Preacher) is someone who is able to successfully communicate the gospel, typically to non-believers and the lost.  They are sent from the Church to bring more people into the body of Christ using charismatic messages and creative methods. 
• Pastor (aka Church Preacher, Counselor, Leader, Shepard) is a person who is responsible for spiritually caring for a group of believers within a specific Church.  They have responsibility for counseling, guiding, leading, nurturing, overseeing, protecting, serving, and teaching the congregation and individuals within the Church.  For this role, they must have authoritative knowledgeable of the Holy Bible and be fully grounded in the Word of God.  A pastor should be humbly committed to the mission of the Church in which he/she is given by God.
• Prophet is someone who speaks God's divinely inspired message to His people.  The message may be a vision of the future of God's will.  Or it could be meant as a warning or encouragement to the Church body.  True spiritual prophecy is to be seen as a blessing to the Church from God, not a curse or something to be taken lightly.  Only through prayer and the test of time can you find the truth in God's heart given through man's words.
• Teacher is a person who can instruct others in the Holy Bible in a way that communicates information in a understandable way for the spiritual growth in God of others.  Teachers must study, research, and look for creative ways to deliver lessons that establish a Biblical foundation and bring the truth of God's Word to the group or age level they are educating.  Keys to teaching include being willing to: consume scriptures, take responsibility for planning lessons, communicating the lessons, and leading  discussions with others.  

Pray to God for guidance in the spiritual gifts He wants you to pursue.  This way you can obtain the necessary training and skills to accentuate the talents and desires you may already have.  Ministry roles require time dedication in not only studies, they need fervent prayer time as well. 

Jesus the Entertainer?

What did he crowds of people want when they followed Jesus?  Did they want to see His miracles or wished to see a magic show?  Did they want to hear His excellent sermons and parables, or were they just expecting a great motivational speaker and orator of the times?  Did they want to be fed spiritual food for their souls or to satisfy physical hunger?  Jesus the Entertainer, NOT!  Instead they found teacher, healer, savior - the Son of God.

"And the people saw them departing,
and many knew him, 

and ran afoot thither out of all cities,
and outwent them, and came together unto him. 

And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, 

and was moved with compassion toward them, 

because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: 

and he began to teach them many things." - Mark 6:33-34 

Are preachers taking the pulpit for Biblical ad spiritual learning to meet entertainment standards.   Are worship leaders getting everyone to grow closer to God and learn scripture by singing along, or are they just giving a concert?  Are church congregations becoming audience members rather than active followers of Jesus and anointed by the Holy Spirit to do God's work?    

"And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, 

he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, 

and gave them to his disciples to set before them; 

and the two fishes divided he among them all.  

And they did all eat, and were filled." - Mark 6:41-42

Remember the acronym WWJD: What would Jesus do?  If you study the Bible, you know what Jesus did ad you learn what he expects you to do too.  It is time to go back to the purpose of the church and the mission of discipleship.  Time to feed the hungry - body and soul.  Focus on John 3:16 and tell everyone about Jesus and what God did for them through Jesus Christ.    It is time for real REVIVAL!

"And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, 

they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him 

that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: 

and as many as touched him were made whole." - Mark 6:56

The Reversal of Good and Evil

In the worldly culture today much of what was considered evil in the past is now seen as insignificant, normal, or even good.  One example in vocabulary is the word "wicked" which the dictionary defines as "evil or morally wrong."  Now that word is often used by younger people to indicate something is "interesting,  wonderful, or fun."  Age-old and accepted meanings of words are getting changed so the people of this world become easily confused and manipulated by those words.  Evil will hide behind acronyms and slogans that sound good but have a demonic purpose. 

All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits. 

Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established. 

- Proverbs 16:2-3 (KJV)

One group or activity example from current events could be protests, which U.S. constitution allows if assembly and petition is done peacefully.  However, protest is occasionally wrongly used as an excuse for breaking the law with violence, looting, injury to others, and destruction of property.  Another examples is while the constitution also provides for freedom of religion, Christian churches are required to close and some actions are taken against them if they do not. Hmm, who does that benefit in a time when depression is growing?  More and more things are going from bad to worse and being hailed as good to great by those who want to spread toxicity and ill-will.  The Bible warned the church this would happen and cautioned Christians against going along with it.

"Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, 

and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" - Isaiah 5:20 (KJV)

In the past few decades, the church has become open-minded in an attempt to appear more up-to-date or open-hearted.  Obvious sins noted in the Bible are allowed to come into the church and more people accept things that would have not been allowed and probably even denounced in the past.  The Bible warned this could happen if churches allowed their congregations to continue in sin.  New converts  are to repent from sin and quit doing it.  If immature Christians continue to do the sin and the leader or elders of the church allows it by not talking to the individual, this would result in more sinning within the body of the church.  Then the eventual downfall of the church body would occur.  Is this happening today?  Yes, a few churches seem to be turning their back on Biblical truths and New Testament teachings.  Can this be stopped?  Yes, it requires revival first ,which comes from prayer and discipline in following Christ and the Bible guidelines for  Christian individuals and the church body as a whole.   Then we must teach the Bible so everyone can discern good from evil.  Compromising Bible teaching for filling seats is dangerous for the Christian Church!

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 

Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, 

neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 

- Romans 8:6-8 (KJV)

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Want to Save the World? Start Right Here!

Watch and listen to below music video  by Casting Crowns.  Start Right Here is a revival song for our church today.  You can buy single MP3 or album CD on Amazon #ad. 

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 

- 2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV)

Music (Lyrics Video Version) 

Spirit of Blessings and Growth for Believers in Christ

A few religious leaders concentrate on the physical blessings of God to His people.  Christians need to understand that they have spiritual blessings and duties too.  The Church (body of Christ) need to understand Ephesians 1, which explains God wants to bless His people and He also gives them a mission of growth.  Too many Christians choose to: bask in their current blessings, not understand who they are in Christ,  and not grow themselves or the Church.  God wants a spiritual growth and connection in all of His people.  Christians should use what He gave them to grow and expand the role of the Church to bring the unsaved unto salvation through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: 

and whom he called, them he also justified: 

and whom he justified, them he also glorified. - Romans 8:30 (KJV)

As a Christian, you must:

• Recognize and accept your spiritual blessings 
• Know who you are in Christ (redeemed from past sins, adopted child with full inheritance, LOVED)
• Grow in your spiritual knowledge of God (devote time to daily pray and study the Bible)
• Share your knowledge and blessings with others 

I Want to Go to Church

As churches slowly re-open fro services,  Christians want to re-join their congregation.  Others who are not mobile or at health risk may continue to join at home via virtual church services streamed live.  Let us all get back to worship, fellowship, and Gods unfailing presence in whatever way is possible for us. Do you also feel like Singing along with Cochren and Company in video below?

"Then had the churches rest ... and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, 

and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied." - Acts 9:31 (KJV)

Continue to pray for healing in our nation and the rest of the world  Pray for our government leaders that they may make the right decisions.  Pray for our business leaders that they make the right decisions for their companies and employees.  Pray for our church leaders that they can get back to being the type of pastors  and shepherds they were called to be.  Thank you for your support and prayers.

Time to Worship, Do Not Neglect Church

Last week, the president asked for a day of prayer and we were still allowed to hold gathering of 50 or less.  Although many gathering places like concert halls, sports arenas, and bars were required to be closed, Christian churches and other places of worship were still open for their members.  Some of those offered live streaming services as well to keep the required physical body limit and provide for the spiritual needs of those unable to physically attend on Sundays.

"And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, 
but encourage one another,  
especially now that the day of his return is drawing near." 
- Hebrews 10:25 (NLT) 

This week the gathering number was lowered to 10. Many church choirs or worship teams are ten or more, so the body count is met just with them.  Then came the announcement that places of worship were also required to close.  Just because the building is not open, does not mean you should neglect your church.  Check Facebook and other social sites to see if your church is live streaming or providing a recorded service.   It is important that you feed your soul during these trying times.  For those without the internet or do not use social media, church may be watched on television or listened to on radio.  Although you may not be physically attending church together, the technology exists to be virtually gathered.    Also, do not neglect your financial support of the church too.

"So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ." 

- Romans 10:17 (NLT)

You can do more than virtually attend church, you can share your on-line services with others too.  Right now, we all need to turn to Christ for help and salvation.  We can help our churches to flourish during this crisis.  Let others know about what your church is doing and their services by posting them in the comments below this post, then sharing this link on your social media and asking others to do the same.  Put your church name, the FB page or website URL, whether recording or live service days/times, and the church denomination.  Why include the denomination?  If someone is looking for comfort in a familiar setting from their past, they will look for that - so let them know.  I plan to re-share this post for many days in order to let more people know about the services in the hopes that not only does virtual attendance rise but many more will come to Christ.  Please share this link with your friends, followers, etc and ask them to do the same.  In this time of need, all of us together can share Christ and his church with the world!

EXAMPLE: Victorious Life Church (VLC)  https://www.facebook.com/victoriouslifechurch/ streams live on Sunday morning and Wednesday night with recording also available. Assembly of God church.  Children's program "King's Kids" recordings and activities on website http://www.victoriouslife.org/

In the World, Not of the World

The verses below contain two prepositions: OF and INTO.  If you remember your grammar classes, you know the definition for a preposition is a word that links a noun, pronoun, or phrase to another part of the sentence.  Have you ever thought to look at the little prepositional words closely?

"I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth." - John 17:14-16 (KJV) 

The word IN (also INTO or INSIDE) is generally used to indicate a location, direction, or time frame.  On the other hand, the word OF is used to show a relation, connection, or belonging.  As a Christian - you belong to God, you are to seek a relationship with Him though Christ, and a closer connection through His Word (Holy Bible) and prayer.  You are only temporarily located on earth and therefore should not act like everyone else in the world does.  So, as a Christian you are to do your best to act like Christ, not other humans and certainly not like the devil.  In other words, although you are located in the world, you are not of the world because you belong to Christ.

What a difference a little preposition makes!

However, the "into" may also indicate it is your mission to show the world Christ.  You are to be an example of Jesus as long as you are on earth.   Your final destination is Heaven, so try to take as many people as you can with you.
 

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,

that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." 
- Romans 12:2

P.S. As a side note on the phrase "freedom of religion" indicates American citizens can: belong to a Christian church, have a connection to a Christian denomination, and have a open relationship with Christ.  The preposition FROM is used to reflect an origin or source, also it can be a starting or ending point in time or location.  So "freedom from religion" seems like bad grammar, as well as an unpatriotic concept given U.S.A. founders and possibly an illegal idea according to the U.S.Constitution.

Finding the Best Bible Version and Using Bible Gateway

Whether you are a new Christian or have been one for many years, it can be difficult to choose the best Bible for yourself from the many options out there.  Do you want a Bible for personal study, for group study, or to follow along during church services?  If for personal study, you need to find a single version you can understand easily if you a new Christian.  If you are more mature in your faith, you may want a study Bible or one that contains two or more versions side-by-side. 

It is important to figure out your needs before you buy as Bibles can be expensive.  A paperback is light and usually less expensive.  However hard back, vinyl covers, or leather-bound editions will be more expensive.  Some translations will have standard book quality paper whereas others will have thinner pages to keep them from being too heavy to regularly carry.  If you want the Bible for church or group study, you may want to ask your leader or minister for their most-used version as a suggestion to make following along easier.  If you want the Bible for personal study, you may also ask them or another fellow Christian who you trust the advice of, or research popular translations. 

“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, 

that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” 

- Romans 15:4(KJV)

For personal study, before spending money on a Bible, you may want to use an on-line tool like BibleGateway.com to check out various versions of your favorite scriptures to see which speaks to you or is easier to comprehend.  Bible Gateway allows you to check out parallel verses from different versions side-by-side.  An example of side-by-side is 2 Timothy 3:16-17(KJV, NET, NIV, ESV).  How to use the side-by-side tool is detailed with step-by-step instruction below a video on their “Did You Know” blog post.  Bible Gateway also offers Bible reading plans and devotionals that you might want to check out.  If you want devotionals, you may also want to check out YouVersion options.

If you are a mature Christian wanting to purchase a Study Bible for personal growth or teaching purposes, there are a lot of choices for those too.  Plus they are very expensive compared to a single version Bible, so you want to be sure you are getting something you will really use rather than just put on a shelf.  Here you may want to consult teachers, preachers, and other experts before you buy.

    

Why Are Words Displayed on Screens in Church?

Some churches display Bible or song verses on large screens at the front of the church.  Why do they do that?  To help you retain what you hear by also seeing it and allow you to better participate in the service.  It is a teaching tool.  Why do they want you to learn at church?  For your edification as well as so you may be blessed.  How?

"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, 

burst into jubilant song with music;" - Psalm 98:4 (NIV)

With songs, you are blessed by singing praises unto the Lord.  In the old days, most churches had hymnals so you could follow along in the song service.  Some churches have hymnals still; others provide both a screen and hymnals, while some only have projections to screens.  If you are not singing along, you are missing: joy in your heart, spiritual uplifting of your soul, and blessings upon your mind/body.  So don not  just be entertained, join in!  Sing along and clap your hands.  The words are there to help you learn the song.  If you do not know the words, you can listen, read, and learn for next time – so no more excuses not to sing and miss your blessings.  Experience the joy of praising God!

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, 

so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. 

Then you will be prosperous and successful.” - Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

With scriptures, you get to know your Bible.  In the past, people brought their Bibles to church so they could follow along with the preacher/teacher and learn God’s Word.  Christians who want edification by studying God’s Word still bring their Bible, so they can mark the read aloud scriptures that speak to them during sermons/lessons.  A few people look up the scriptures on electronic devices, while others only look at the screen.  However, most do not bring their Bibles –they must just be too heavy to carry…  which are you?  Grow in God, read your Bible!

For an opinion on why churches should not use screens during worship service, see Why Churches Should Ditch The Projector Screens And Bring Back Hymnals.  Not only are song books missung from churches, in many there are no pews (family closer together rather than inidiviual chairs) or preacher's pulpits.  For an interesting look at the reasons behind the missing podiums, see The Forgotten Pulpit.

Know the Truth!

The devil wants to hide the TRUTH of salvation through Jesus.  One way he does this is to lie about what churches stand for and cause people to be terrorized by the message or create terror against the message.  People following the hatred of the devil instead should look to Jesus so they may find his love and change their LIFE.


Jesus answered,"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." - John 14:6 (NIV) 

Proof of the devil's deception was in the news this week when church buildings were desecrated before their Sunday morning services.   The news story of "LIE" on churches was carried on many Texas channels that weekend, including CBS and ABC/WFAA with follow-ups by CBN and newspapers.  As they washed away the vandalism on their buildings, many pastors hope the vandal would not only be caught by police (because he broke the law - destruction of property), but be caught by Jesus too (because all need salvation).

The Biblical Standards of Tithe and Offerings

If you are one of those people who thinks the church always has their hand in your pocket, then you need to read this! If you feel outrage or guilt when the preacher teaches on tithing, you should to check the Bible references to see what God says.  If you are already a cheerful giver, then you may just desire to review below for the reasons why you give to the church.  So why doe churches take up tithe and offering?   First, we will look at what the difference is in tithes and offerings and what each is used for.

"Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, 

and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete 

withal it shall be measured to you again." - Luke 6:38 (KJV)

Tithes are a percentage of your income that you God requires you to give to support the church or temple.  This is a mere 10% (although the word tithe means tenth, you can choose to give a larger percent) of your earnings for which God promises to bless you for sharing.  Some may compare this to a tax, although taxes are a much higher percentage of your income (and you do not get to choose to pay less) plus you also have to pay taxes on many purchases too.  Unless you are retired or collecting other government benefits, you may not consider that you are getting any blessings from paying taxes.   However, your taxes do keep the government and all those programs running.  Just as your tithes keep the church running.  Churches typically use tithes to to pay their bills and employee salaries.

"For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, 

and not according to that he hath not." - 2 Corinthians 8:12 (KJV)

The church counts on your tithes in the same way you count on your paycheck.  If you are not paying tithes, you are cheating the church and disobeying God.  Although you might disobey by not pay tithes, God probably will not punish you for it.  Would you ever consider cheating the government by not paying your taxes?  If you disobey tax regulations, you know you will be punished.   Who can you count on more the government, your church, or God?  Which do you turn to first when you need help?

"Every man according as he purpose in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly,

 or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." -2 Corinthians 9:7 (KJV)

Offering on the other hand is an amount you choose to give over and above your tithes, but not instead of tithing.  Churches collect offerings to purchase items they may need outside of their regular bills and standard support efforts.  Churches also take offerings for missions and special ministries.  Without offerings, it becomes more difficult for the Church to: offer new programs, have an outreach into the community, or reach out across the nation and to other parts of the world.

You may believe that God will provide for all the above even if you do not share your money (and/or skills and/or talents).  Perhaps, but how will you feel knowing that you are letting Him down?

What Truly is a Bible-based Church?

 If you are looking for a church that will help you grow your faith, then you want to consider a Bible-based church.  A Bible-based church will preach and teach from the Word of God (the Holy Bible).  To determine if a church is Bible-based before attending, check their website or Facebook page to see what they say they believe.  Then if you decide to checkout a service, listen for scripture references during the main sermon or Sunday School.  Write all references down so you can look them up in your own Bible.  This allows you to test what you heard against God's word to verify if the teaching is Biblical.

"when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, 

hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. 

Let all things be done unto edifying." - 1 Corinthians 14:26 (KJV)

If the purpose of the pulpit seems to enforce religious doctrine, promise blessings without personal effort, ignores Christ's teaching, or puts mankind above or equal to God - then it is not truly Bible-based.  Religion that does not encourage members to strive to follow Christ and the teachings of God's Word cannot claim to be Bible-based.  If no scriptures are given during the sermon or study sessions, then how can the teaching be considered Bible-based?  If the Bible is not used as the basis for all preaching and teaching, then false teaching or cult doctrine may become a future possibility.

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; 

teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, 

singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." - Colossians 3:16 (KJV)

Helpful reference you may want to review include:

• Chuck Lawless offers a 10-point survey to test if a church is Bible-based on his blog.  On point 6, I was taught memorizing Bible books in order is a helpful tool in quickly finding scripture references while attending preaching and teaching.  Knowing the order is really more for personal study and growth.
• Steven Cole on Bible.org offers 10 qualities a good Bible-based church should have and supporting scriptures for each in choice of listening to 45-minute audio or reading text.   I like that this one includes fellowship and prayer as key qualities. It also supports communion and baptism as Biblical teachings.  If you want to check out the funny video mention, click here to go to YouTube.

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