"I agree that that the stuff about ‘wastage of vital fluids’ is rubbish. For me, the real evil of masturbation would be that it takes an appetite which, in lawful use, leads the individual out of himself to complete (and correct) his own personality in that of another (and finally in children and even grandchildren) and turns it back: sending the man back into the prison of himself, there to keep a harem of imaginary brides.
And this harem, once admitted, works against his ever getting out and really uniting with a real woman. For the harem is always accessible, always subservient, calls for no sacrifice or adjustments, and can be endowed with erotic and psychological attractions which no real woman can rival.
Among these shadowy brides he is always adored, always the perfect lover: no demand is made on his unselfishness, no mortification is ever imposed on his vanity. In the end, they become merely the medium through which he increasingly adores himself.
Do read Charles Williams’ Descent into Hell, and study the character of Mr. Wentworth. And it is not only the faculty of love which is thus sterilized, forced back on itself, but also the faculty of imagination.
The true exercise of imagination, in my view, is (a) To help us to understand other people (b) To respond to, and, some of us, to produce art. But it has also a bad use: to provide for us, in shadowy form, a substitute for virtues, successes, distinctions, et cetera which ought to be sought outside in the real world — e.g., picturing all I’d do if I were rich instead of earning and saving.
Masturbation involves this abuse of imagination in erotic matters (which I think bad in itself) and thereby encourages a similar abuse of it in all spheres.
After all, almost the main work of life is to come out of our selves, out of the little, dark prison we are all born in. Masturbation is to be avoided as all things are to be avoided which retard this process. The danger is that of coming to love the prison."
~ C.S. Lewis, from Yours, Jack.
Showing posts with label 1 Cross - Jesus Christ. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1 Cross - Jesus Christ. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Test Your Knowledge of the Book of Mormon
In 1841, Joseph Smith declared that the Book of Mormon was "the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts than by any other book" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 194).
In light of such a claim, it behooves an individual to take a serious look at the precepts found in the Book of Mormon. Take a few moments and test your knowledge of what Joseph Smith also called the "most correct book of earth."
Feel free to print this out and fill in the blanks as needed.
1. God a mortal man - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never says God was once a mortal. In fact, it teaches that God was always God. Take for instance Moroni 8:18. It says God is "unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity." Joseph Smith, however, taught, "We have imagined and supposed that God was God from all eternity, I will refute that idea, and take away the veil so that you may see" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 345).
2. God has a body of flesh - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never says God has a body of flesh and bones. On more than one occasion it clearly teaches that God is a God of spirit (see Alma 18:2-5, 24-28; Alma 22:9-11).
3. God is married - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches God is married.
4. Men becoming Gods - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never says men can become Gods.
5. Temple participation - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never mentions mankind must participate in temple ordinances in order to become exalted.
6. Jesus and Lucifer brothers - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches Jesus and Lucifer are brothers.
7. Cleansing power of Christ's blood - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Never does the Book of Mormon hint that there are sins beyond the cleansing power of Christ's blood. However, second LDS Prophet Brigham Young taught, "There is not a man or woman, who violates the covenants made with their God, that will not be required to pay the debt. The blood of Christ will never wipe that out, your own blood must atone for it; and the judgments of the Almighty will come, sooner or later, and every man and woman will have to atone for breaking their covenants (Discourses of Brigham Young, p.385). Mormon Apostle Bruce McConkie wrote, "But under certain circumstances there are some serious sins for which the cleansing of Christ does not operate, and the law of God is that men must have their own blood shed to atone for their sins" (Mormon Doctrine, pg. 92).
8. Baptism for the dead - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches baptism for the dead is a necessary ordinance. In fact, the Book of Mormon teaches if a person dies in his sins, the devil has sealed him his and this is the final state of the wicked (see Alma 34:34,35). However, 10th LDS President Joseph Fielding Smith stated, "If we willfully neglect the salvation of our dead, then also we shall stand rejected of the Lord, because we have neglected our dead; and just so sure their blood will be required at our hands ...we cannot be saved without them" (Doctrines of Salvation 2:145,149).
9. Plurality of Gods - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches there is a plurality of Gods. In fact it strongly teaches there is only one true God (see Alma 11:26-29).
10. Priesthood - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never mentions either the Aaronic or Melchizedek priesthood.
11. Can't drink coffee or tea or hot drinks- If you said it doesn't, you're right. This is taken from Doctrine and Covenants 89. Still, this health law never mentions coffee or tea specifically, only "hot drinks." Mormon General authority George Q. Cannon included soup in this prohibition when he said, "We must not permit them to drink liquor or hot drinks, or hot soups or to use tobacco or other articles that are injurious" (Journal of Discourses 12:223).
12. Three degrees of glory - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The celestial, terrestrial and telestial kingdoms are never mentioned in the Book of Mormon.
13. Holy Ghost is a son of God - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Only Jesus and those who embrace Christ as their Savior are given that title in the Book of Mormon. Under the heading of "Holy Ghost," The Encyclopedia of Mormonism states, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the Holy Ghost is a spirit man, a spirit son of God the Father."
14. God's approval of Nephite polygamy - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Jacob 2:27 makes it clear that the Nephites were to only have one wife and no concubines.
15. Must have a woman to be saved - If you said it doesn't, you're right. However, Brigham Young taught, "No man can be perfect without the woman, so no woman can be perfect without a man to lead her. I tell you the truth as it is in the bosom of eternity. If he wishes to be saved, he cannot be saved without a woman by his side" (as quoted on page 245 of The Miracle of Forgiveness).
16. Protective Garments - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never mentions "garments of the Holy Priesthood" yet temple Mormons are told that if they do not defile them, the garment will "be a shield and a protection" to them against the power of the destroyer.
17. Doctrine to be voted on - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Never were the words of the Book of Mormon prophets sustained by the believers in the Book of Mormon in order to be considered official teaching.
18. Seed of Cain - If you said it doesn't, you're right. However, third LDS Prophet John Taylor said, "And after the flood we are told that the curse that had been pronounced upon Cain was continued through Ham's wife, as he had married a wife of that seed. And why did it pass through the flood? Because it was necessary that the devil should have a representation upon the earth as well as God" (Journal of Discourses 22:304).
19. God having a father and grandfather - If you said it doesn't, you're right. However, Joseph Smith claimed, "If Jesus Christ was the Son of God, and John discovered that God the Father of Jesus Christ had a Father, you may suppose that He had a Father also" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg.373).
20. Church of the Firstborn - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Such an expression is never used in the Book of Mormon.
How did you do?
In light of such a claim, it behooves an individual to take a serious look at the precepts found in the Book of Mormon. Take a few moments and test your knowledge of what Joseph Smith also called the "most correct book of earth."
Feel free to print this out and fill in the blanks as needed.
Quiz
Where in the Book of Mormon does it...- ...teach that Elohim (God the Father in Mormonism) was once a mortal man and that he was not always God? _________________
- ...teach that God has a body of flesh and bones? _________________
- ...teach that God is married in heaven? _________________
- ...teach that men can become Gods? _________________
- ...teach that temple participation is necessary to become exalted? _________________
- ...teach Jesus and Lucifer are brothers? _________________
- ...teach the blood of Christ does not cleanse certain sins? _________________
- ...teach that a person can lose his salvation if he is not baptized on behalf of dead relatives? _________________
- ...say there is more than one God? _________________
- ...say males must hold either the Aaronic or Melchizedek Priesthood? _________________
- ...say you can't drink coffee, tea, or other hot beverages? _________________
- ...teach that there are "three degrees of glory"? _________________
- ...teach that the Holy Ghost is a son of God just as Jesus is a son of God? _________________
- ...say that God allowed the Nephites to practice polygamy? _________________
- ...say that if a man wishes to be saved he must have a woman by his side? _________________
- ...say that faithful members must wear sacred undergarments that have the power to protect them? _________________
- ...say that official church doctrine must be voted on by the general membership? _________________
- ...say that the Black race (seed of Cain) survived the flood because the devil needed a representation on earth? _________________
- ...say that God is the offspring of another God who, in turn, is the offspring of still another God, etc.? _________________
- ...teach that the highest level within the celestial kingdom is the "Church of the Firstborn"? _________________
Answers
2. God has a body of flesh - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never says God has a body of flesh and bones. On more than one occasion it clearly teaches that God is a God of spirit (see Alma 18:2-5, 24-28; Alma 22:9-11).
3. God is married - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches God is married.
4. Men becoming Gods - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never says men can become Gods.
5. Temple participation - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never mentions mankind must participate in temple ordinances in order to become exalted.
6. Jesus and Lucifer brothers - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches Jesus and Lucifer are brothers.
7. Cleansing power of Christ's blood - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Never does the Book of Mormon hint that there are sins beyond the cleansing power of Christ's blood. However, second LDS Prophet Brigham Young taught, "There is not a man or woman, who violates the covenants made with their God, that will not be required to pay the debt. The blood of Christ will never wipe that out, your own blood must atone for it; and the judgments of the Almighty will come, sooner or later, and every man and woman will have to atone for breaking their covenants (Discourses of Brigham Young, p.385). Mormon Apostle Bruce McConkie wrote, "But under certain circumstances there are some serious sins for which the cleansing of Christ does not operate, and the law of God is that men must have their own blood shed to atone for their sins" (Mormon Doctrine, pg. 92).
8. Baptism for the dead - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches baptism for the dead is a necessary ordinance. In fact, the Book of Mormon teaches if a person dies in his sins, the devil has sealed him his and this is the final state of the wicked (see Alma 34:34,35). However, 10th LDS President Joseph Fielding Smith stated, "If we willfully neglect the salvation of our dead, then also we shall stand rejected of the Lord, because we have neglected our dead; and just so sure their blood will be required at our hands ...we cannot be saved without them" (Doctrines of Salvation 2:145,149).
9. Plurality of Gods - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never teaches there is a plurality of Gods. In fact it strongly teaches there is only one true God (see Alma 11:26-29).
10. Priesthood - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never mentions either the Aaronic or Melchizedek priesthood.
11. Can't drink coffee or tea or hot drinks- If you said it doesn't, you're right. This is taken from Doctrine and Covenants 89. Still, this health law never mentions coffee or tea specifically, only "hot drinks." Mormon General authority George Q. Cannon included soup in this prohibition when he said, "We must not permit them to drink liquor or hot drinks, or hot soups or to use tobacco or other articles that are injurious" (Journal of Discourses 12:223).
12. Three degrees of glory - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The celestial, terrestrial and telestial kingdoms are never mentioned in the Book of Mormon.
13. Holy Ghost is a son of God - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Only Jesus and those who embrace Christ as their Savior are given that title in the Book of Mormon. Under the heading of "Holy Ghost," The Encyclopedia of Mormonism states, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the Holy Ghost is a spirit man, a spirit son of God the Father."
14. God's approval of Nephite polygamy - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Jacob 2:27 makes it clear that the Nephites were to only have one wife and no concubines.
15. Must have a woman to be saved - If you said it doesn't, you're right. However, Brigham Young taught, "No man can be perfect without the woman, so no woman can be perfect without a man to lead her. I tell you the truth as it is in the bosom of eternity. If he wishes to be saved, he cannot be saved without a woman by his side" (as quoted on page 245 of The Miracle of Forgiveness).
16. Protective Garments - If you said it doesn't, you're right. The Book of Mormon never mentions "garments of the Holy Priesthood" yet temple Mormons are told that if they do not defile them, the garment will "be a shield and a protection" to them against the power of the destroyer.
17. Doctrine to be voted on - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Never were the words of the Book of Mormon prophets sustained by the believers in the Book of Mormon in order to be considered official teaching.
18. Seed of Cain - If you said it doesn't, you're right. However, third LDS Prophet John Taylor said, "And after the flood we are told that the curse that had been pronounced upon Cain was continued through Ham's wife, as he had married a wife of that seed. And why did it pass through the flood? Because it was necessary that the devil should have a representation upon the earth as well as God" (Journal of Discourses 22:304).
19. God having a father and grandfather - If you said it doesn't, you're right. However, Joseph Smith claimed, "If Jesus Christ was the Son of God, and John discovered that God the Father of Jesus Christ had a Father, you may suppose that He had a Father also" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg.373).
20. Church of the Firstborn - If you said it doesn't, you're right. Such an expression is never used in the Book of Mormon.
How did you do?
Friday, September 5, 2014
Mental Illness and Spiritual Healing
I recently encountered a gentleman who suggested that my Bipolar Disorder was from Satan and that all I needed was enough faith to seek healing from God and I would be "cured". He went further to point to psychology, psychiatry, and counseling as man's failed attempt to rely on one's own understanding rather than seeking God.
After a wave of both disbelief and disappointment, I came to the realization that there are many in the church who view mental illness in this light. To this end, I offer my own observations and personal experience as well as sound biblical knowledge and wisdom.
Depression is an unfortunately inadequate word to define a very wide spectrum of issues; ranging from sadness and emotional discontent commonly associated with life issues to deeply debilitating mental illness that impacts physical health, and mental stability. The Word is full of opportunity, hope, and guidance for those feeling depression all along this spectrum. Counselors provide professional and objective recognition and accountability that family members and those with the disorder themselves often lack. I would caution against anyone recommending that medication or counseling should be a last resort or even abandoned as a matter of faith.
I absolutely believe I am fearfully and wonderfully made on purpose, for a purpose, with Bipolar Disorder. Many feel that there is a stigma to mental disorders; that somehow they are afflictions. I see them as part of the tapestry of God's design. I don't feel like a mistake or that Satan reached into my life at birth and corrupted me somehow. I see my mental illness as God's opportunity to use me in a way He makes me uniquely qualified for. Withholding medical attention from anyone and relying solely on prayer for healing is God's not will.
The reality is that there is a brilliance and an ability that I have as a result of my Bipolar Disorder that will escape others. Because God wired the chemicals differently in my mind, I am able to make connections and conceptualize things that others cannot. To express that Bipolar Disorder is something that I must seek God's healing from as it is an affliction from Satan is akin to telling a person born with a physical birth defect that medical science cannot help them and that they should pray for God's healing if they want to avoid worldly wisdom. This is not a proper stewardship of the intellectual gifts God gives to His children nor a proper stewardship of the physical bodies God blesses us with.
The Disciples were given authority to heal and cast out demons, but they were not always successful. The Apostle Paul was not able to heal himself and was told that God’s grace was sufficient to carry him through his infirmity without removing it from him (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). This gift is given at various times and places to reveal the God of heaven to the sick and tormented. If healing is not granted, then we can conclude that God has greater plans for letting the person go through the illness or infirmity.
The spiritual gift of healing is an intimate one as it reveals the heart and compassion of God. Jesus is the Great Healer and Physician and during His ministry on earth He healed countless people and cast out demons (Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16; 9:35, Mark 1:34). Healings reveal that God is near to His people and He cares about their sufferings. Healings are meant to draw people to God through His Son Jesus Christ. God wants those healed to respond in faith with thanksgiving and love as the leper did in Luke 17:15-19, and as the demon-possessed man did in Mark 5:18-20. By God’s grace, physical healing should lead to spiritual healing (faith in Jesus) and eternal life with Him in heaven.
Another key point in looking at those that Jesus healed is to understand why he healed them. Jesus healed people of their afflictions so that He may be glorified and that His message would be spread. God is currently using the Bipolar Disorder in me to spread His message and to glorify Him. Why would he want to take that tool away? Is there nothing God can't use to reach the lost?
The 1-step, "name it and claim it" healing and restoration lie that Satan has perpetrated on believers is a fallacy that keeps Christians coming back to their struggles instead of following the biblical concepts of living presented in Matthew 5. God always presents healing as a process. It always requires an action (often many actions) on the part of the believer that God reacts to with healing.
God's ultimate concern is the spiritual well-being of those being healed and their relationship with Jesus. He yearns for the day that there will be no more pain and suffering, and sin will no longer wreak havoc on His people.
One of my favorite songs on the radio is "Do Something", by Matthew West. The concept behind the song is that the singer is upset that God isn't addressing the needs of the world and asks God why He doesn't do something. God's response is "I did. I created you." The fact is that God uses man to heal man just as much (if not more so) than He uses divine intervention. Otherwise, we could treat broken bones, cancer, and the flu solely through the healing power of Christ and not through medicine. God wants us to use our intellect in conjunction with our faith.
One final caution with mental illness is the illusion that it is God's plan or desire to heal someone from it. The reality is that God created me with this illness intentionally and with a purpose. He reveals that purpose more and more each day and uses it to allow me to speak Christ into the lives of people who share the illness in a way that those without the illness cannot. I look back at 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 when I think of my mental illness. For Paul, the thorn in his side kept him humble. For me, it is a daily reminder that I can't rely on my own strength (as I am prone to do) and that I have to ask others for help and to rely on God. Should God choose to take it from me, I will praise Him. Should I live out my life with Bipolar Disorder, I will praise Him.
After a wave of both disbelief and disappointment, I came to the realization that there are many in the church who view mental illness in this light. To this end, I offer my own observations and personal experience as well as sound biblical knowledge and wisdom.
Mental Illness
There are many different approaches to treatment of clinical mental disorders; medication, counseling, group support, diet and exercise, and spiritual development to mention a few. The issue often arises when a person becomes an advocate of one or another of these approaches as a substitute for the others. The reality is that God has provided each of these options to work in concert with each other. In other words, the most effective approach is almost always a combination of one or even all of these in order to find balance. As a person fearfully and wonderfully made by God with Bipolar Disorder on purpose and for a purpose, I can tell you that the best tools I have used are medication, diet and exercise, sleep and routine, individual and family counseling, and Celebrate Recovery for support. I cannot stress enough how beneficial the support I have received from those at Celebrate Recovery has been for me personally and for my family as well.Depression is an unfortunately inadequate word to define a very wide spectrum of issues; ranging from sadness and emotional discontent commonly associated with life issues to deeply debilitating mental illness that impacts physical health, and mental stability. The Word is full of opportunity, hope, and guidance for those feeling depression all along this spectrum. Counselors provide professional and objective recognition and accountability that family members and those with the disorder themselves often lack. I would caution against anyone recommending that medication or counseling should be a last resort or even abandoned as a matter of faith.
I absolutely believe I am fearfully and wonderfully made on purpose, for a purpose, with Bipolar Disorder. Many feel that there is a stigma to mental disorders; that somehow they are afflictions. I see them as part of the tapestry of God's design. I don't feel like a mistake or that Satan reached into my life at birth and corrupted me somehow. I see my mental illness as God's opportunity to use me in a way He makes me uniquely qualified for. Withholding medical attention from anyone and relying solely on prayer for healing is God's not will.
The reality is that there is a brilliance and an ability that I have as a result of my Bipolar Disorder that will escape others. Because God wired the chemicals differently in my mind, I am able to make connections and conceptualize things that others cannot. To express that Bipolar Disorder is something that I must seek God's healing from as it is an affliction from Satan is akin to telling a person born with a physical birth defect that medical science cannot help them and that they should pray for God's healing if they want to avoid worldly wisdom. This is not a proper stewardship of the intellectual gifts God gives to His children nor a proper stewardship of the physical bodies God blesses us with.
Spiritual Healing
The spiritual gift of healing found in 1 Corinthians 12:9 is actually plural in the Greek. Charismata iamaton is literally translated “gifts of healings.” This spiritual gift is closely related to the gifts of faith and miracles. All spiritual gifts are to be exercised in faith, but gifts of healings involve a special measure of it. This gift is interesting in that there is no guarantee that a person will always be able to heal anyone he or she desires. It is subject to the sovereign will of God, as all spiritual gifts are.The Disciples were given authority to heal and cast out demons, but they were not always successful. The Apostle Paul was not able to heal himself and was told that God’s grace was sufficient to carry him through his infirmity without removing it from him (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). This gift is given at various times and places to reveal the God of heaven to the sick and tormented. If healing is not granted, then we can conclude that God has greater plans for letting the person go through the illness or infirmity.
The spiritual gift of healing is an intimate one as it reveals the heart and compassion of God. Jesus is the Great Healer and Physician and during His ministry on earth He healed countless people and cast out demons (Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16; 9:35, Mark 1:34). Healings reveal that God is near to His people and He cares about their sufferings. Healings are meant to draw people to God through His Son Jesus Christ. God wants those healed to respond in faith with thanksgiving and love as the leper did in Luke 17:15-19, and as the demon-possessed man did in Mark 5:18-20. By God’s grace, physical healing should lead to spiritual healing (faith in Jesus) and eternal life with Him in heaven.
Another key point in looking at those that Jesus healed is to understand why he healed them. Jesus healed people of their afflictions so that He may be glorified and that His message would be spread. God is currently using the Bipolar Disorder in me to spread His message and to glorify Him. Why would he want to take that tool away? Is there nothing God can't use to reach the lost?
The 1-step, "name it and claim it" healing and restoration lie that Satan has perpetrated on believers is a fallacy that keeps Christians coming back to their struggles instead of following the biblical concepts of living presented in Matthew 5. God always presents healing as a process. It always requires an action (often many actions) on the part of the believer that God reacts to with healing.
God's ultimate concern is the spiritual well-being of those being healed and their relationship with Jesus. He yearns for the day that there will be no more pain and suffering, and sin will no longer wreak havoc on His people.
Conclusion
I would have to disagree with the gentleman's position regarding the rejection of doctors as worldly wisdom. It is important to remember that God also creates the intellects and resources that go into the medical profession.One of my favorite songs on the radio is "Do Something", by Matthew West. The concept behind the song is that the singer is upset that God isn't addressing the needs of the world and asks God why He doesn't do something. God's response is "I did. I created you." The fact is that God uses man to heal man just as much (if not more so) than He uses divine intervention. Otherwise, we could treat broken bones, cancer, and the flu solely through the healing power of Christ and not through medicine. God wants us to use our intellect in conjunction with our faith.
One final caution with mental illness is the illusion that it is God's plan or desire to heal someone from it. The reality is that God created me with this illness intentionally and with a purpose. He reveals that purpose more and more each day and uses it to allow me to speak Christ into the lives of people who share the illness in a way that those without the illness cannot. I look back at 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 when I think of my mental illness. For Paul, the thorn in his side kept him humble. For me, it is a daily reminder that I can't rely on my own strength (as I am prone to do) and that I have to ask others for help and to rely on God. Should God choose to take it from me, I will praise Him. Should I live out my life with Bipolar Disorder, I will praise Him.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Four Friends
In chapter two of the gospel according to Mark, we read about an incident that happened when Jesus was teaching in someone’s home. It was very crowded. Everyone wanted to see Jesus and touch him since they had heard news of his miracles. People not only filled the house but the yard as well. Four men heard that Jesus, the healer, would be there and had the idea to take a friend who was paralyzed. They felt certain that if they could get their friend in front of Jesus, something could be done for him.
Seeing that the doors and windows were blocked, they decided that they might be able to drop their friend down through the roof on a mat. And guess what, their crazy scheme worked! They peeled back the roofing and made a hole large enough to lower their friend down. Jesus, seeing their faith, immediately responded. He both forgave the man’s sins and healed him.
That man was certainly fortunate to have four friends ready not only to take him to Jesus but also to fight to get him in front of the one person who could heal him. We all need to be that kind of friend because there are people all around us who need miracles. Let’s keep our eyes open for opportunities to use our faith on behalf of others.
Mark 2:5 NLT
Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.”
Seeing that the doors and windows were blocked, they decided that they might be able to drop their friend down through the roof on a mat. And guess what, their crazy scheme worked! They peeled back the roofing and made a hole large enough to lower their friend down. Jesus, seeing their faith, immediately responded. He both forgave the man’s sins and healed him.
That man was certainly fortunate to have four friends ready not only to take him to Jesus but also to fight to get him in front of the one person who could heal him. We all need to be that kind of friend because there are people all around us who need miracles. Let’s keep our eyes open for opportunities to use our faith on behalf of others.
Mark 2:5 NLT
Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.”
Monday, June 2, 2014
5 Things Christians Should Know About Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety tend to be some of those touchy subjects that are tough to tackle from a Christian perspective.
It's not complicated just because the illnesses themselves are so complex, manifesting themselves in myriad ways, but also because perspectives about mental disorders vary greatly throughout the Church. This isn't to paint the Church with broad strokes. Incorrect beliefs about mental illness are pervasive throughout our culture.
However, some of the “church-y” misconceptions about clinical depression and anxiety spring from a genuine desire to understand them scripturally. It's necessary to generalize a bit to understand these attitudes: there are things well-meaning Christians tend to get wrong.
Of course, there is way more information about anxiety and depression than what can be summed up in one article, so it’s certainly worth doing more research on the subject. But if we as the Church are going to start talking about these issues, here are a few things we should know:
It's not a character defect, a spiritual disorder or an emotional dysfunction. And chief of all, it's not a choice. Asking someone to “try” not being depressed is tantamount to asking someone who's been shot to try and stop bleeding. Such an attitude can dangerously appear in the Church as, “if only you had enough faith.”
Cue the record scratch for any Christian regarding matters of healing. Having faith in God's ability to heal is hugely important, and personal faith can help ease depression. But to deny medical or psychiatric treatment to someone suffering from mental illness is really no different than denying them to someone with a physical illness. The difference between the two is that the former is invisible.
Speaking of the invisible, some faith traditions are quick to suggest demonic attack as the cause for depression. While I'm convinced that there's definitely a spiritual element—the enemy will exploit any weakness—medical science holds that major depressive disorder is real and the causes are manifold.
Yes, sins in the past like physical abuse, substance abuse and neglect may contribute to depression, and these sins often continue as coping mechanisms to those suffering from mental illnesses. Yet this doesn't make the sufferer of depression and anxiety a sinner simply for experiencing the crushing effects of their condition.
What happens when mental illness is treated as an unconfessed, unaddressed sin is alienation. Viewing depression as a sin in and of itself prevents individuals from seeking treatment. It also ignores the fact that many Christians may respond to depression in unhealthy ways if the root cause is ignored or misunderstood.
The Word is full of wisdom and encouragement for those suffering from depression and anxiety disorders, but it doesn't come in one-verse doses. “Be anxious for nothing” and “do not worry about your life” can easily be taken out of context, which is problematic. First (and importantly), doing so fails to appropriately handle Scripture; carelessly misconstruing the larger intent of the passages.
Another really scary thing this does is it can convince a person in the worst throes of their illness that they're not obeying God. Add that to what feels like the inability just to be – every shaky breath hurts and getting out of bed is impossible – and you've thrown gasoline onto the fire.
A true examination of depression and anxiety in the Bible shows the existential dread that accompanies the illnesses instead of an easy out, one-and-done antidote. God's hand isn't always apparent.
As Dan Blazer pointed out in Christianity Today, “most of us have no idea what David meant when he further lamented, 'I am forgotten by them as though I were dead.' Severe depression is often beyond description.” Rather than prescribing a bit of a verse divorced from its context, a better strategy is to look at those instances of mental suffering along with the Church body and to offer comfort in the fact that even the saints struggled.
When I've opened up to Christian friends about my own depression and anxiety disorders, they're often surprised. “You seem so happy all the time!” Depressed people become really good at hiding their symptoms, even from doctors, because of the stigma attached to the illness. Churches often don't address mental illness, which gives the worship team guitarist or the elder even more incentive to keep it hidden away. Furthermore, the symptoms of depression often tend to contradict each other, which makes it really difficult for a person suffering from depression to recognize it for what it is—let alone for the Church to recognize it.
“Learning to recognize the signs” then is often a failing strategy. If churches begin responding to mental disorders as a community willing to offer encouragement and support, people suffering from those illnesses may just be able to accept the help. It may just be people you never expected.
Given all of the above, it's easy to understand how the stigma related to depression, even in the Church, will prevent people from seeking Christian guidance and support. The most Christ-loving and helpful community might not have the appropriate framework for dealing with such clinical disorders, and many churches don't have licensed psychologists on the staff. Pastoral staff can be ill-equipped to deal with depression and err toward a spiritual solution rather than psychological or medical treatment.
Even churches that seek to provide a safe haven for those suffering in their midst might not have a judgment-free place to discuss their struggles.
Programs like Celebrate Recovery can provide an invaluable forum for people to interact with others who experience “hurts, habits, and hangups,” and can help deal with some of the self-medication many people with depression and anxiety use to numb themselves. Without a carefully planned strategy to deal with mental illness, though, “all are welcome” might not be enough. Healing comes from a prayerful, loving community that seeks to truly understand major depressive disorder and related conditions, and one that develops a positive response.
Most churches probably have the very best intentions when dealing with issues of mental illness. Like the rest of society, however, the Church may misinterpret these clinical conditions and respond to them in ways that exacerbate them—and as a result, demoralize those suffering. Christ, the Great Physician, came to heal the sick. As His body, it's time the Church leads society in helping to do the same.
It's not complicated just because the illnesses themselves are so complex, manifesting themselves in myriad ways, but also because perspectives about mental disorders vary greatly throughout the Church. This isn't to paint the Church with broad strokes. Incorrect beliefs about mental illness are pervasive throughout our culture.
However, some of the “church-y” misconceptions about clinical depression and anxiety spring from a genuine desire to understand them scripturally. It's necessary to generalize a bit to understand these attitudes: there are things well-meaning Christians tend to get wrong.
Of course, there is way more information about anxiety and depression than what can be summed up in one article, so it’s certainly worth doing more research on the subject. But if we as the Church are going to start talking about these issues, here are a few things we should know:
1. Depression isn't what the Church sometimes makes it out to be.
2. Mental illness is not a sin.
3. The Bible doesn't provide “easy answers.”
As Dan Blazer pointed out in Christianity Today, “most of us have no idea what David meant when he further lamented, 'I am forgotten by them as though I were dead.' Severe depression is often beyond description.” Rather than prescribing a bit of a verse divorced from its context, a better strategy is to look at those instances of mental suffering along with the Church body and to offer comfort in the fact that even the saints struggled.
4. Anxiety and depression don't look how we often think.
5. Strong churches don't “fix” depression.
Programs like Celebrate Recovery can provide an invaluable forum for people to interact with others who experience “hurts, habits, and hangups,” and can help deal with some of the self-medication many people with depression and anxiety use to numb themselves. Without a carefully planned strategy to deal with mental illness, though, “all are welcome” might not be enough. Healing comes from a prayerful, loving community that seeks to truly understand major depressive disorder and related conditions, and one that develops a positive response.
Most churches probably have the very best intentions when dealing with issues of mental illness. Like the rest of society, however, the Church may misinterpret these clinical conditions and respond to them in ways that exacerbate them—and as a result, demoralize those suffering. Christ, the Great Physician, came to heal the sick. As His body, it's time the Church leads society in helping to do the same.
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
The Best 4-Minute Explanation of Christ Ever!
If you haven't seen this, you are missing out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyYFxp7apl4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyYFxp7apl4
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
How can Christian Parents handle the loss of a child?
As parents, we cannot imagine a more traumatic experience than losing a child. All parents naturally expect their children to outlive them. Such a loss is an extraordinary out-of-order event that brings with it an overwhelming sense of pain and lingering grief. It is a life-altering experience that presents unique challenges to parents as they seek to rebuild their lives without their child.
It would be presumptuous for anyone to tell parents how to handle the death of their child. However, we do know that those who yield their lives to God are more apt to recover from such a loss with a greater sense of normalcy than those without a genuine and positive faith in our Creator. With this being true, how do Christian parents handle the death of a child? Does the Bible address the subject, and if so, in what way?
It would be presumptuous for anyone to tell parents how to handle the death of their child. However, we do know that those who yield their lives to God are more apt to recover from such a loss with a greater sense of normalcy than those without a genuine and positive faith in our Creator. With this being true, how do Christian parents handle the death of a child? Does the Bible address the subject, and if so, in what way?
How to Get to Heaven: Ideas of Different Religions
There appears to be five major categories regarding how to get to heaven in the world’s religions. Most believe that hard work and wisdom will lead to ultimate fulfillment, whether that is unity with god (Hinduism, Buddhism, and Baha’i) or freedom and independence (Scientology, Jainism). Others, like Unitarianism and Wicca, teach the afterlife is whatever you want it to be, and salvation is a non-issue because the sin nature doesn’t exist. A few believe either the afterlife doesn’t exist, or it’s too unknowable to consider.
Derivatives of the worship of the Christian-Judeo God generally hold that faith in God and/or Jesus and the accomplishment of various deeds, including baptism or door-to-door evangelism, will ensure the worshiper will go to heaven.
Only Christianity teaches that salvation is a free gift of God through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), and no amount of work or effort is necessary or possible to get to heaven.
Derivatives of the worship of the Christian-Judeo God generally hold that faith in God and/or Jesus and the accomplishment of various deeds, including baptism or door-to-door evangelism, will ensure the worshiper will go to heaven.
Only Christianity teaches that salvation is a free gift of God through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), and no amount of work or effort is necessary or possible to get to heaven.
Is there Marriage in Heaven?
The Bible tells us, “At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:30). This was Jesus’ answer in response to a question concerning a woman who had been married multiple times in her life —whom would she be married to in heaven (Matthew 22:23-28)? Evidently, there will be no such thing as marriage in heaven. This does not mean that a husband and wife will no longer know each other in heaven. This also does not mean that a husband and wife could not still have a close relationship in heaven. What it does seem to indicate, though, is that a husband and wife will no longer be married in heaven.
Is Creationism scientific?
There is currently a lot of debate over the validity of creationism, defined as “the belief that the universe and living organisms originate from specific acts of divine creation, as in the biblical account, rather than by natural processes such as evolution.” Creation science is often dismissed by the secular community and accused of lacking scientific value. However, creationism is clearly compatible with a scientific approach to any topic.
Do faith in God and science contradict?
Science is defined as “the observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of phenomena.” Science is a method that mankind can use to gain a greater understanding of the natural universe. It is a search for knowledge through observation. Advances in science demonstrate the reach of human logic and imagination. However, a Christian’s belief in science should never be like our belief in God. A Christian can have faith in God and respect for science, as long as we remember which is perfect and which is not.
Why did Jesus have to die?
When we ask a question such as this, we must be careful that we are not calling God into question. To wonder why God couldn’t find “another way” to do something is to imply that the way He has chosen is not the best course of action and that some other method would be better. Usually what we perceive as a “better” method is one that seems right to us.
What is Forgiveness?
Acts 13:38 declares, “Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.”
What is forgiveness and why do I need it?
The word “forgive” means to wipe the slate clean, to pardon, to cancel a debt. When we wrong someone, we seek their forgiveness in order for the relationship to be restored. Forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. No one deserves to be forgiven. Forgiveness is an act of love, mercy, and grace. Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what they have done to you.
What is forgiveness and why do I need it?
The word “forgive” means to wipe the slate clean, to pardon, to cancel a debt. When we wrong someone, we seek their forgiveness in order for the relationship to be restored. Forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. No one deserves to be forgiven. Forgiveness is an act of love, mercy, and grace. Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what they have done to you.
What is the Power of Prayer?
The idea that power is inherent in prayer is a very popular one. According to the Bible, the power of prayer is, quite simply, the power of God, who hears and answers prayer.
Consider the following:
Consider the following:
What is the Serenity Prayer?
The serenity prayer is attributed to a Protestant theologian named Reinhold Niebuhr (1892-1971). There are various versions of the serenity prayer floating around with minor alterations.
Niebuhr himself did not publish the serenity prayer until 1951, in one of his magazine columns, although it had previously appeared under his name in 1944, when it was included in a Federal Council of Churches book for army chaplains and servicemen.
The text of the entire prayer is as follows:
Niebuhr himself did not publish the serenity prayer until 1951, in one of his magazine columns, although it had previously appeared under his name in 1944, when it was included in a Federal Council of Churches book for army chaplains and servicemen.
The text of the entire prayer is as follows:
Why Pray?
For the Christian, praying is like breathing. It is easier to do it than to not do it. We pray for a variety of reasons. For one thing, prayer is a form of serving God (Luke 2:36-38) and obeying Him. We pray because God commands us to pray (Philippians 4:6-7). Prayer is exemplified for us by Christ and the early church (Mark 1:35; Acts 1:14; 2:42; 3:1; 4:23-31; 6:4; 13:1-3). If Jesus thought it was worthwhile to pray, we should also. If He needed to pray to remain in the Father’s will, how much more do we need to pray?
What is Agape love?
The Greek word agape is often translated "love" in the New Testament. How is "agape love" different from other types of love? The essence of agape love is self-sacrifice. Unlike our English word “love,” agape is not used in the Bible to refer to romantic or sexual love. Nor does it refer to close friendship or brotherly love, for which the Greek word philia is used. Nor does agape mean charity, a term which the King James translators carried over from the Latin. Agape love is unique and is distinguished by its nature and character.
What does the Bible say about ghosts / hauntings?
Is there such a thing as ghosts? The answer to this question depends on what precisely is meant by the term “ghosts.” If the term means “spirit beings,” the answer is a qualified “yes.” If the term means “spirits of people who have died,” the answer is “no.” The Bible makes it abundantly clear that there are spirit beings, both good and evil. But the Bible negates the idea that the spirits of deceased human beings can remain on earth and “haunt” the living.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
What does it mean to accept Jesus as your personal Savior?
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? To properly understand this question, you must first understand the terms “Jesus Christ,” “personal,” and “Savior.”
Who is Jesus Christ?
Many people will acknowledge Jesus Christ as a good man, a great teacher, or even a prophet of God. These things are definitely true of Jesus, but they do not fully define who He truly is. The Bible tells us that Jesus is God in the flesh, God in human form (see John 1:1, 14). God came to earth to teach us, heal us, correct us, forgive us—and die for us! Jesus Christ is God, the Creator, the sovereign Lord. Have you accepted this Jesus?
What is a Savior, and why do we need a Savior?
The Bible tells us that we have all sinned; we have all committed evil acts (Romans 3:10-18). As a result of our sin, we deserve God's anger and judgment. The only just punishment for sins committed against an infinite and eternal God is an infinite punishment (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:11-15). That is why we need a Savior!
Jesus Christ came to earth and died in our place. Jesus' death was an infinite payment for our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins (Romans 5:8). Jesus paid the price so that we would not have to. Jesus' resurrection from the dead proved that His death was sufficient to pay the penalty for our sins. That is why Jesus is the one and only Savior (John 14:6; Acts 4:12)! Are you trusting in Jesus as your Savior?
Is Jesus your “personal” Savior?
Many people view Christianity as attending church, performing rituals, and/or not committing certain sins. That is not Christianity. True Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Accepting Jesus as your personal Savior means placing your own personal faith and trust in Him. No one is saved by the faith of others. No one is forgiven by doing certain deeds. The only way to be saved is to personally accept Jesus as your Savior, trusting in His death as the payment for your sins and His resurrection as your guarantee of eternal life (John 3:16). Is Jesus personally your Savior?
If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, say the following words to God. Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. Only believing in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross for you can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation. “God, I know that I have sinned against You and deserve punishment. But I believe Jesus Christ took the punishment I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I receive Your offer of forgiveness and place my trust in You for salvation. I accept Jesus as my personal Savior! Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness—the gift of eternal life! Amen!”
Who is Jesus Christ?
Many people will acknowledge Jesus Christ as a good man, a great teacher, or even a prophet of God. These things are definitely true of Jesus, but they do not fully define who He truly is. The Bible tells us that Jesus is God in the flesh, God in human form (see John 1:1, 14). God came to earth to teach us, heal us, correct us, forgive us—and die for us! Jesus Christ is God, the Creator, the sovereign Lord. Have you accepted this Jesus?
What is a Savior, and why do we need a Savior?
The Bible tells us that we have all sinned; we have all committed evil acts (Romans 3:10-18). As a result of our sin, we deserve God's anger and judgment. The only just punishment for sins committed against an infinite and eternal God is an infinite punishment (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:11-15). That is why we need a Savior!
Jesus Christ came to earth and died in our place. Jesus' death was an infinite payment for our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins (Romans 5:8). Jesus paid the price so that we would not have to. Jesus' resurrection from the dead proved that His death was sufficient to pay the penalty for our sins. That is why Jesus is the one and only Savior (John 14:6; Acts 4:12)! Are you trusting in Jesus as your Savior?
Is Jesus your “personal” Savior?
Many people view Christianity as attending church, performing rituals, and/or not committing certain sins. That is not Christianity. True Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Accepting Jesus as your personal Savior means placing your own personal faith and trust in Him. No one is saved by the faith of others. No one is forgiven by doing certain deeds. The only way to be saved is to personally accept Jesus as your Savior, trusting in His death as the payment for your sins and His resurrection as your guarantee of eternal life (John 3:16). Is Jesus personally your Savior?
If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, say the following words to God. Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. Only believing in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross for you can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation. “God, I know that I have sinned against You and deserve punishment. But I believe Jesus Christ took the punishment I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I receive Your offer of forgiveness and place my trust in You for salvation. I accept Jesus as my personal Savior! Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness—the gift of eternal life! Amen!”
How do I get right with God?
In order to get “right” with God, we must first understand what is “wrong.” The answer is sin. “There is no one who does good, not even one” (Psalm 14:3). We have rebelled against God’s commands; we “like sheep, have gone astray” (Isaiah 53:6).
The bad news is that the penalty for sin is death. “The soul who sins is the one who will die” (Ezekiel 18:4). The good news is that a loving God has pursued us in order to bring us salvation. Jesus declared His purpose was “to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19:10), and He pronounced His purpose accomplished when He died on the cross with the words, “It is finished!” (John 19:30).
The bad news is that the penalty for sin is death. “The soul who sins is the one who will die” (Ezekiel 18:4). The good news is that a loving God has pursued us in order to bring us salvation. Jesus declared His purpose was “to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19:10), and He pronounced His purpose accomplished when He died on the cross with the words, “It is finished!” (John 19:30).
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