The news came through today that Claire Rayner has died. She became famous for answering questions from newspaper readers about emotional issues that were concerning them. (The term for such people is "Agony Aunt"). In itself it is not wrong to seek to help people who have problems; however, in Rayner's case the answers did not reflect the teaching of God's infallible word for one simple reason - she was a convinced atheist (and proud of it !). Consequently she was a fool (Psalm 14 v 1).
According to an article in the "freethinker" web site she died as an atheist - if that is the case then we can say with all confidence that she is now in the torments of Hell. The clear teaching of God's infallible word gives no eternal hope to those who die as unbelievers.
Rayner joins the ranks of other prominent atheists who recently passed into eternity and, if they did not repent, are bitterly regretting their sin and rebellion against God. I have in mind such people as Michael Foot and Robin Cook.
As Christians we face many challenges in life and much hostility. In recent years persecution against us has increased. Consequently we may be tempted to think that it would be easier to go with the tide of unbelief and simply live to please ourselves instead of standing up for Jesus and putting ourselves through distress and anxiety due to opposition. However, let us remember the words of our Saviour when He said "What does it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul" Mark 8 v 36.
Let us not be intimidated - these people who think they are so clever that they can reject God will have their "payback". One second in Hell will be enough to convince them they made the wrong choice; for us Christians one second in Heaven will convince us we have made the right choice, and all the persecution we endured for the Saviour will have been worth it.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
Monday, 4 October 2010
The unreasonable reasonists
I noticed earlier in the year that a group calling themselves "The Reasonists" posted an article attacking the work of the Gideons International as they place Bibles /New Testaments in Hotels, Schools and Hospitals. (I say "a group" but this may be a lone operator !). To read it you need to google "Reasonists" and look up the link entitled "Stop the Gideons International".
It seems to me that this person/group is being unreasonable. The simple fact is that the Gideons finance the work themselves, so no cost is incurred by the establishment concerned. Moreover, the management of the Hotel/School/College/Hospital choose to give permission before the Word of God can be placed. The Gideons never force themselves onto anybody - it is all done by consent.
Moreover, what this person/group need to be aware of is that God is sovereign - He will ensure that His word is spread despite opposition from small-minded individuals who masquerade as freethinkers and champions of free speech but, in reality, are on a fruitless crusade to hinder the spread of the Christian Gospel.
In recent months Nottingham NHS trust has tried to ban Gideon Bibles/NT but have had to back down. Moreover, the miners trapped in Chile have received a consignment of Gideon NTs. Every day many thousands of people all over the world are in receipt of a Gideon Bible or NT. God will not be intimidated by anyone, not least a tinpot, cowboy outfit like "The Reasonists".
As God's word goes forth we can be certain that it will do it's own work in drawing lost men, women and young people to a saving knowledge of Christ.
"The entrance of God's word gives light, it gives understanding to the simple". Psalm 119 v 130
"Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God". Romans 10 v 17
It seems to me that this person/group is being unreasonable. The simple fact is that the Gideons finance the work themselves, so no cost is incurred by the establishment concerned. Moreover, the management of the Hotel/School/College/Hospital choose to give permission before the Word of God can be placed. The Gideons never force themselves onto anybody - it is all done by consent.
Moreover, what this person/group need to be aware of is that God is sovereign - He will ensure that His word is spread despite opposition from small-minded individuals who masquerade as freethinkers and champions of free speech but, in reality, are on a fruitless crusade to hinder the spread of the Christian Gospel.
In recent months Nottingham NHS trust has tried to ban Gideon Bibles/NT but have had to back down. Moreover, the miners trapped in Chile have received a consignment of Gideon NTs. Every day many thousands of people all over the world are in receipt of a Gideon Bible or NT. God will not be intimidated by anyone, not least a tinpot, cowboy outfit like "The Reasonists".
As God's word goes forth we can be certain that it will do it's own work in drawing lost men, women and young people to a saving knowledge of Christ.
"The entrance of God's word gives light, it gives understanding to the simple". Psalm 119 v 130
"Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God". Romans 10 v 17
Tuesday, 21 September 2010
The eye of a needle.
In Matthew 19 verse 24 Jesus said that it was easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. What does this mean?
Well, first of all, in terms of wealth this is relative. A poor man in the UK is far richer than most people in Bangladesh so I don't wish to look at this part of the verse but the part about the camel and the eye of a needle.
Many have advanced the theory that the eye of a needle is a door on a city wall that is so small that a camel needs to shed it's load and get on it's knees to get in. This has been a popular view for several hundred years and many sermons have been preached on it. This sounds plausible until we discover that there is no credible evidence that such a door existed.
Another theory is that there is a mistranslation - the wording should be rope and not camel. If that is so then all our Bibles are wrong and we can no longer trust anything the Bible teaches us.
I believe the answer lies in verses 25-26. The disciples asked "who, then, can be saved?" and Jesus replied that what is impossible to man is possible to God. Humanly speaking it is impossible for anyone to be saved. People's hearts are too hard, their spiritual eyes are blind, their understanding is darkened and they are spiritually dead. However, when God, in His sovereign mercy, works in a person and softens their hearts, open their eyes, enlightens their understanding and regenerates them, then they have the power to repent and turn to Christ.
It is, indeed, impossible for anyone to be saved - unless God works in them. For those of us who know the Saviour this truth should humble us. How can we attribute our salvation to anything that we have done? Let us give God all the praise and all the glory for our salvation.
Well, first of all, in terms of wealth this is relative. A poor man in the UK is far richer than most people in Bangladesh so I don't wish to look at this part of the verse but the part about the camel and the eye of a needle.
Many have advanced the theory that the eye of a needle is a door on a city wall that is so small that a camel needs to shed it's load and get on it's knees to get in. This has been a popular view for several hundred years and many sermons have been preached on it. This sounds plausible until we discover that there is no credible evidence that such a door existed.
Another theory is that there is a mistranslation - the wording should be rope and not camel. If that is so then all our Bibles are wrong and we can no longer trust anything the Bible teaches us.
I believe the answer lies in verses 25-26. The disciples asked "who, then, can be saved?" and Jesus replied that what is impossible to man is possible to God. Humanly speaking it is impossible for anyone to be saved. People's hearts are too hard, their spiritual eyes are blind, their understanding is darkened and they are spiritually dead. However, when God, in His sovereign mercy, works in a person and softens their hearts, open their eyes, enlightens their understanding and regenerates them, then they have the power to repent and turn to Christ.
It is, indeed, impossible for anyone to be saved - unless God works in them. For those of us who know the Saviour this truth should humble us. How can we attribute our salvation to anything that we have done? Let us give God all the praise and all the glory for our salvation.
Tuesday, 7 September 2010
Apostasy abounds
I've never been entirely happy with the organisers of the Greenbelt "Christian" music festival. The so-called music they play reminds me of the heartbeat of Hell and the people concerned seem to be so worldly. This whole exercise is clearly a million miles away from true, Biblical Christianity.
However, this event really descended into the pits last month when they had the U.K.'s leading gay rights activist as a guest speaker. Pervert-in-chief, Peter Tatchell, was invited to address them in what must be one the most blatant evidences of apostasy I have ever come across. We all know that Tatchell makes no pretence to be a Christian but when those who bear that title give a platform to such a man it proves that they know nothing of what a true Christian is. These people are deluding themselves if they believe that they are true followers of the one who said "by their fruits you know them" (Matthew 7 v 16). True Christians do not compromise with evil, especially evil that is so perverse that the New Testament refers to it as being "against nature" (Romans 1 v 26-27).
While on the subject of false Christians I am reminded of that wolf in sheep's clothing Cliff Richard. He claims to be a Christian and yet his life and beliefs simply do not bear this out. He published a biography entitled "My Life, My Way" - a dubious title for a Christian - in which he makes unbiblical comments. This book records that he does not believe that fornication is sinful. Moreover, he refuses to accept that homosexuality is condemned in the Bible. Furthermore, he has been living with a "male friend" and will not answer any question about whether or not he is a homosexual. There is nothing wrong with two men having a close friendship and living in the same property, but if Cliff Richard is not engaged in gay perversion why does he not simply issue a statement to that effect? I wonder if he will be the latest in a long line of celebrities to "come out", at least that would be the honest thing to do.
We are truly living in dark and dreadful days with apostasy and unbelief all around us. However, rather than despair let us renew our own dedication to the Lord and stand firm for Him knowing that in due course "we shall reap if we faint not"- Galatians 6 v 9.
However, this event really descended into the pits last month when they had the U.K.'s leading gay rights activist as a guest speaker. Pervert-in-chief, Peter Tatchell, was invited to address them in what must be one the most blatant evidences of apostasy I have ever come across. We all know that Tatchell makes no pretence to be a Christian but when those who bear that title give a platform to such a man it proves that they know nothing of what a true Christian is. These people are deluding themselves if they believe that they are true followers of the one who said "by their fruits you know them" (Matthew 7 v 16). True Christians do not compromise with evil, especially evil that is so perverse that the New Testament refers to it as being "against nature" (Romans 1 v 26-27).
While on the subject of false Christians I am reminded of that wolf in sheep's clothing Cliff Richard. He claims to be a Christian and yet his life and beliefs simply do not bear this out. He published a biography entitled "My Life, My Way" - a dubious title for a Christian - in which he makes unbiblical comments. This book records that he does not believe that fornication is sinful. Moreover, he refuses to accept that homosexuality is condemned in the Bible. Furthermore, he has been living with a "male friend" and will not answer any question about whether or not he is a homosexual. There is nothing wrong with two men having a close friendship and living in the same property, but if Cliff Richard is not engaged in gay perversion why does he not simply issue a statement to that effect? I wonder if he will be the latest in a long line of celebrities to "come out", at least that would be the honest thing to do.
We are truly living in dark and dreadful days with apostasy and unbelief all around us. However, rather than despair let us renew our own dedication to the Lord and stand firm for Him knowing that in due course "we shall reap if we faint not"- Galatians 6 v 9.
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
National Silly Society
I have read in the national press an article about a plan to send judges in Scotland a copy of the Bible - God's infallible word. This has been supported by Lord Mackay of Clashfern who is a believer in the Lord Jesus. Mr Mackay has pointed out how important it is to use the wisdom of the Bible in the judiciary system. This seems to me a good idea, given the general state of the country and the lack of respect for authority etc.
However, this has been opposed by a spokesman for the "National Secular Society" one Terry Sanderson (there's always someone, somewhere seeking to spoil things). He is on his usual crusade against the Christian faith which he seems to hate with a passion. Who then are the NSS? It appears that they are a group which exist to drive out any expression of the Christian faith from public life and take every opportunity to attack the Bible. Given that our Christian heritage has benefited this country enormously over the years, and given that the erosion of that same heritage has led to the serious social problems we now have, I would have thought that this cowboy outfit should be renamed the National Silly Society. Moreover, the two leading figures, Sanderson and a bloke named Keith Porteous (pompous) Wood are, I understand, in "civil partnership" (that says it all really). No wonder these poor creatures hate the Bible so much. However, their campaign to remove the Bible is doomed to fail. No matter how much it is maligned and hated, God's word always bounces back.
Down through the annals of history people have tried to destroy the Bible. For over 70 years the communists in the old USSR used all the state apparatus in this vain attempt but failed miserably. Moreover, in Acts chapter 12 King Herod sought to block the spread of the Gospel by murdering James - he was dealt with by the Lord and God's word continued to spread. The campaign by these clowns (Sanderson and Pompous-Wood) will also fail. God is sovereign - He will ensure that His word continues to go forth and do it's work of converting people.
As far as the leaders of the NSS are concerned - let us redouble out efforts to pray for them - that God may be pleased to grant them repentance unto life.
However, this has been opposed by a spokesman for the "National Secular Society" one Terry Sanderson (there's always someone, somewhere seeking to spoil things). He is on his usual crusade against the Christian faith which he seems to hate with a passion. Who then are the NSS? It appears that they are a group which exist to drive out any expression of the Christian faith from public life and take every opportunity to attack the Bible. Given that our Christian heritage has benefited this country enormously over the years, and given that the erosion of that same heritage has led to the serious social problems we now have, I would have thought that this cowboy outfit should be renamed the National Silly Society. Moreover, the two leading figures, Sanderson and a bloke named Keith Porteous (pompous) Wood are, I understand, in "civil partnership" (that says it all really). No wonder these poor creatures hate the Bible so much. However, their campaign to remove the Bible is doomed to fail. No matter how much it is maligned and hated, God's word always bounces back.
Down through the annals of history people have tried to destroy the Bible. For over 70 years the communists in the old USSR used all the state apparatus in this vain attempt but failed miserably. Moreover, in Acts chapter 12 King Herod sought to block the spread of the Gospel by murdering James - he was dealt with by the Lord and God's word continued to spread. The campaign by these clowns (Sanderson and Pompous-Wood) will also fail. God is sovereign - He will ensure that His word continues to go forth and do it's work of converting people.
As far as the leaders of the NSS are concerned - let us redouble out efforts to pray for them - that God may be pleased to grant them repentance unto life.
Tuesday, 10 August 2010
Proud in their arrogance
Once of the most distressing sights of modern Britain is not only the rampant wickedness that we witness daily but the way that an increasing number of people glory in their sinful behaviour. Examples would be the man caught out in an adulterous affair who finds his popularity increasing among his friends because he boasts about his "exploits" with women; or perhaps the man who boasts about his ability to "outdrink" other men. We see also a disturbing number of young people boasting about going to the nightclubs and getting "smashed" - the depraved title for drunkenness.
However, one of the most glaring examples of depravity is the so-called Gay Pride parades that many cities and towns host in this vile country. The latest being the Brighton parades at the week-end. Not content with being involved in what the Bible terms "an abomination" they have to openly promote their filth for all to approve of - and woe betide anyone caught daring to suggest that such practices are sinful. Persecution against those Christians who are bold enough to speak the truth is increasing. I am reminded of that verse that says "they call the evil good and the good evil". Isaiah 5 verse 20.
However, these perverts need to remember that "the mills of God grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly small". God bides His time. There is no need for Christians to incite hatred or violence against them (indeed, it is wrong to do such) - God will judge them in His own time and in His own way. One hopes that they will see the error of their ways and repent, casting themselves upon a merciful God who will pardon those who plead with Christ for mercy. However, should they continue in their depravity then they WILL face eternal torments when they die. One second in Hell will be enough to wipe out all their "pleasant" memories when they willingly engaged in these vile pursuits.
As Christians we may feel beleaguered, but we should look up - for our "redemption draws nigh". We have our Heavenly inheritance to look forward to. After all, what is a few short years of persecution if it is followed by an eternity of unalloyed bliss? During our time of pilgrimage on earth let us re-double our efforts to share Christ with those we meet - including sodomites - in the hope that God will yet show mercy.
However, one of the most glaring examples of depravity is the so-called Gay Pride parades that many cities and towns host in this vile country. The latest being the Brighton parades at the week-end. Not content with being involved in what the Bible terms "an abomination" they have to openly promote their filth for all to approve of - and woe betide anyone caught daring to suggest that such practices are sinful. Persecution against those Christians who are bold enough to speak the truth is increasing. I am reminded of that verse that says "they call the evil good and the good evil". Isaiah 5 verse 20.
However, these perverts need to remember that "the mills of God grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly small". God bides His time. There is no need for Christians to incite hatred or violence against them (indeed, it is wrong to do such) - God will judge them in His own time and in His own way. One hopes that they will see the error of their ways and repent, casting themselves upon a merciful God who will pardon those who plead with Christ for mercy. However, should they continue in their depravity then they WILL face eternal torments when they die. One second in Hell will be enough to wipe out all their "pleasant" memories when they willingly engaged in these vile pursuits.
As Christians we may feel beleaguered, but we should look up - for our "redemption draws nigh". We have our Heavenly inheritance to look forward to. After all, what is a few short years of persecution if it is followed by an eternity of unalloyed bliss? During our time of pilgrimage on earth let us re-double our efforts to share Christ with those we meet - including sodomites - in the hope that God will yet show mercy.
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
The Sovereignty of God
I was encouraged to hear recently of a young lady who had come to know the Lord Jesus as her personal Saviour. She was not raised in a Christian home and had not been taught about the Gospel in her home environment. However, having been asked by a friend to go to a young people's group her interest in the Gospel grew and eventually she was converted. So often when people from Christian homes are saved cynics dismiss that as a result of "indoctrination". However, what about when someone from a completely non-Christian background is saved? How is it that such a one comes to the point of repentance and conversion? The answer to that question is the same for all conversions - whether or not the subject has been raised from a Christian background. The answer is simple - the sovereignty of God.
In John 6 v 37 Jesus said "All that the Father gives me will come to me, and he who comes to me I will by no means cast out". Moreover, in John 17 Jesus makes several mentions of this truth -that a people have been given to Him by the Father. Humanly speaking no-one will be saved; our hearts are too hard, our spiritual sight is dim and we are dead "in trespasses and sins". Unless God intervenes in a person's life that will continue to be the case until they die and pass into Hell.
However, God is merciful. Before the world even began He gave a people to His Son. As time goes on He works in each of those so given and opens their eyes, enlightens their understanding, gives them spiritual life and brings them to a point when they willingly repent of their sins and accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Nothing can stop God so working in their lives. They may resist for a while, the devil may put obstacles in their way - but in God's good time He will work in them and they WILL be saved.
This is a great encouragement in the work of evangelism - as we sow the seed of the Gospel we can have absolute certainty that God will move upon those who are in His sights. There is no need to be discouraged by lack of results - it is all in God's hands. There is no need to use gimmicks or water down the truth in order to attract people - God draws them as it pleases Him to do so. If God is pleased to save hardened atheists like Richard Dawkins, or my old friend Barry Duke at the Freethinker - then He will do so.
God is truly sovereign, we sow the seed, He gives the increase!
In John 6 v 37 Jesus said "All that the Father gives me will come to me, and he who comes to me I will by no means cast out". Moreover, in John 17 Jesus makes several mentions of this truth -that a people have been given to Him by the Father. Humanly speaking no-one will be saved; our hearts are too hard, our spiritual sight is dim and we are dead "in trespasses and sins". Unless God intervenes in a person's life that will continue to be the case until they die and pass into Hell.
However, God is merciful. Before the world even began He gave a people to His Son. As time goes on He works in each of those so given and opens their eyes, enlightens their understanding, gives them spiritual life and brings them to a point when they willingly repent of their sins and accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Nothing can stop God so working in their lives. They may resist for a while, the devil may put obstacles in their way - but in God's good time He will work in them and they WILL be saved.
This is a great encouragement in the work of evangelism - as we sow the seed of the Gospel we can have absolute certainty that God will move upon those who are in His sights. There is no need to be discouraged by lack of results - it is all in God's hands. There is no need to use gimmicks or water down the truth in order to attract people - God draws them as it pleases Him to do so. If God is pleased to save hardened atheists like Richard Dawkins, or my old friend Barry Duke at the Freethinker - then He will do so.
God is truly sovereign, we sow the seed, He gives the increase!
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