The Bible says Jesus miraculously turned water into wine. It never says, however, He turned water into alcohol. Don’t let anyone push you into believing the Bible says otherwise. I’ve not dealt directly with Jesus turning water to wine at Gulf Coast Pastor, but I have in Ancient Wine and the Bible.
Mark H. Creech,* however, has recently written a couple of excellent articles on Jesus turning water into wine. These are well worth your time. Links are given below.
I appreciate his stand, and am honored that he uses Ancient Wine and the Bible as a reference. He also references another book I highly recommend, Alcohol Today: Abstinence in an Age of Indulgence.
Drinking and Jesus Turning Water to Wine
Drinking: Continuing the Conversation
*Mark H. Creech has served as pastor of churches in New York and North Carolina. He now serves as Executive Director of the Christian Action League of North Carolina, and is a writer, radio commentator, and speaker.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 23, AD 2013.
Ancient Wine Production and the Bible
Other articles in lower right margin.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
Earth Day
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. -Genesis 1:1
The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, The world and those who dwell therein. -Psalm 24:1
Thoughts on Earth Day (April 22) and the environment:
1. Christians should be concerned about the environment.
It is the creation of our Heavenly Father. Support reasonable measures to decrease pollution and enhance the environment. Don’t litter. Enjoy nature and the outdoors. Plant a garden, a tree. Plant to provide food and shelter for wildlife. Learn about and enjoy God’s creation.*
2. We are to have dominion over it. Genesis 1:28
That doesn’t mean to trash it - but to use its resources wisely. Farming, ranching, logging, hunting, fishing, trapping can be reasonable ways to use and balance the resources God gave us.
Drilling and using the oil God gave us is a reasonable use of the earth’s resources. If you drive an automobile, apparently you agree as well. If you disagree, I expect to see you riding a bicycle.
3. Be honest, truthful about the environment.
Many of the radical environmentalists are deceptive and untruthful about environmental issues.
Knowledge, opinions, weather cycles change.
For example:
On the first Earth Day in 1970 - people were protesting against Global Cooling. When I was in grade school we were taught Global Cooling. For several years now they have used the same evidence to teach Global Warming. Now they are beginning to speak of Climate Change. That seems to be a winner - the climate will change, and weather cycles come and go.
Once they protested against nuclear power - now they’re for it.
Environmentalists were for plastic grocery bags, now they’re against them.
There is a growing concern about Ethanol increasing the cost of food for the poor and actually hurting the environment.
Let’s be honest about the facts. Let’s be reasonable about environmental laws.
4. Worship the Creator, not the creation.
Worshipping the creation is idolatry.
Who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. -Romans 1:25
Never confuse worshipping the Creator with worshipping the creation.
5. Most important, tell people about the Creator. John 3:16
No matter how well we take care of this world, we are all going to leave it some day. We must be prepared for the life to come.
* This year I’ve planted six pecan trees, three persimmon trees, one grapefruit tree, a rose, and a number of other plants. In the next day or two I’ll be grafting a couple of pecan trees. I now get fruit and nuts from a number of trees I’ve planted in the past. I’ve studied and enjoy nature, the environment and how it all works together. I invite you to do the same.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 22, AD 2013
Global Warming, Global Cooling, & Climate Change
Other articles in lower right margin.
The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, The world and those who dwell therein. -Psalm 24:1
Thoughts on Earth Day (April 22) and the environment:
1. Christians should be concerned about the environment.
It is the creation of our Heavenly Father. Support reasonable measures to decrease pollution and enhance the environment. Don’t litter. Enjoy nature and the outdoors. Plant a garden, a tree. Plant to provide food and shelter for wildlife. Learn about and enjoy God’s creation.*
2. We are to have dominion over it. Genesis 1:28
That doesn’t mean to trash it - but to use its resources wisely. Farming, ranching, logging, hunting, fishing, trapping can be reasonable ways to use and balance the resources God gave us.
Drilling and using the oil God gave us is a reasonable use of the earth’s resources. If you drive an automobile, apparently you agree as well. If you disagree, I expect to see you riding a bicycle.
3. Be honest, truthful about the environment.
Many of the radical environmentalists are deceptive and untruthful about environmental issues.
Knowledge, opinions, weather cycles change.
For example:
On the first Earth Day in 1970 - people were protesting against Global Cooling. When I was in grade school we were taught Global Cooling. For several years now they have used the same evidence to teach Global Warming. Now they are beginning to speak of Climate Change. That seems to be a winner - the climate will change, and weather cycles come and go.
Once they protested against nuclear power - now they’re for it.
Environmentalists were for plastic grocery bags, now they’re against them.
There is a growing concern about Ethanol increasing the cost of food for the poor and actually hurting the environment.
Let’s be honest about the facts. Let’s be reasonable about environmental laws.
4. Worship the Creator, not the creation.
Worshipping the creation is idolatry.
Who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. -Romans 1:25
Never confuse worshipping the Creator with worshipping the creation.
5. Most important, tell people about the Creator. John 3:16
No matter how well we take care of this world, we are all going to leave it some day. We must be prepared for the life to come.
* This year I’ve planted six pecan trees, three persimmon trees, one grapefruit tree, a rose, and a number of other plants. In the next day or two I’ll be grafting a couple of pecan trees. I now get fruit and nuts from a number of trees I’ve planted in the past. I’ve studied and enjoy nature, the environment and how it all works together. I invite you to do the same.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 22, AD 2013
Global Warming, Global Cooling, & Climate Change
Other articles in lower right margin.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Obituary - George Beverly Shea
One of the most beloved Gospel singers, George Beverly Shea (AD 1909-2013), moved from this world to Heaven yesterday, April 16, 2013.
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association published the following obituary:
CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 16, 2013 – George Beverly Shea, 104, of Montreat, North Carolina, soloist of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), died this evening following a brief illness.
Since George Beverly Shea first sang for Graham in 1943 on the Chicago radio hymn program, “Songs in the Night,” Shea has faithfully carried the Gospel in song to every continent and every state in the Union. Graham’s senior by ten years, Shea devotedly preceded the evangelist in song in nearly every Crusade over the span of more than one-half century.
Shea was the recipient of ten Grammy nominations, a Grammy Award in 1965, and was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Grammy organization in 2011. He was also a member of the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame (1978), and was inducted into the Religious Broadcasting Hall of Fame in February 1996. Shea was also inducted into the inaugural class of the Conference of Southern Baptist Evangelists’ “Hall of Faith” in 2008.
“I first met Bev Shea while in Chicago when he was on Moody Radio,” said Billy Graham. “As a young man starting my ministry, I asked Bev if he would join me. He said yes and for over 60 years we had the privilege of ministering together across the country and around the world. Bev was one of the most humble, gracious men I have ever known and one of my closest friends. I loved him as a brother. My prayer for his wife, Karlene, and his children, Ron and Elaine, is that God will strengthen them during this time.”
Born in Winchester, Ontario, Canada, where his father was a Wesleyan Methodist minister, Shea’s first public singing was in the choir of his father’s church. Between Crusade, radio, and television dates in many countries, he sang at hundreds of concerts and recorded more than 70 albums of sacred music. At age 23 he composed the music to one of his best known solos, “I’d Rather Have Jesus.”
“Even though Bev was 10 years older than my father, he never acted his age,” said Franklin Graham. “He was absolute fun to be with. Bev was one of the most gracious and unassuming men I have known. He was always encouraging and supportive, a man of deep faith and strong commitment to Jesus Christ.”
Shea is survived by his wife, Karlene, and his children from his first marriage, Ronald and Elaine. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Erma, who died in 1976.
Ron, born in 1948 in Chicago, graduated from Trinity International University in Deerfield, Ill., in 1971. For more than 30 years, Ron has been an associate in Crusade ministry through the BGEA, assisting in preparatory work for evangelistic crusades involving Mr. Graham and more recently for Franklin Graham’s ministry. He is married to the former Kathy Ford.
Details on the funeral service for Shea will be forthcoming.
Visit www.billygraham.org for additional information.
*******
For those interested, Bill Gaither has DVDs available featuring the singing of George Beverly Shea.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 17, AD 2013.
More articles in lower right margin.
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association published the following obituary:
CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 16, 2013 – George Beverly Shea, 104, of Montreat, North Carolina, soloist of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), died this evening following a brief illness.
Since George Beverly Shea first sang for Graham in 1943 on the Chicago radio hymn program, “Songs in the Night,” Shea has faithfully carried the Gospel in song to every continent and every state in the Union. Graham’s senior by ten years, Shea devotedly preceded the evangelist in song in nearly every Crusade over the span of more than one-half century.
Shea was the recipient of ten Grammy nominations, a Grammy Award in 1965, and was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Grammy organization in 2011. He was also a member of the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame (1978), and was inducted into the Religious Broadcasting Hall of Fame in February 1996. Shea was also inducted into the inaugural class of the Conference of Southern Baptist Evangelists’ “Hall of Faith” in 2008.
“I first met Bev Shea while in Chicago when he was on Moody Radio,” said Billy Graham. “As a young man starting my ministry, I asked Bev if he would join me. He said yes and for over 60 years we had the privilege of ministering together across the country and around the world. Bev was one of the most humble, gracious men I have ever known and one of my closest friends. I loved him as a brother. My prayer for his wife, Karlene, and his children, Ron and Elaine, is that God will strengthen them during this time.”
Born in Winchester, Ontario, Canada, where his father was a Wesleyan Methodist minister, Shea’s first public singing was in the choir of his father’s church. Between Crusade, radio, and television dates in many countries, he sang at hundreds of concerts and recorded more than 70 albums of sacred music. At age 23 he composed the music to one of his best known solos, “I’d Rather Have Jesus.”
“Even though Bev was 10 years older than my father, he never acted his age,” said Franklin Graham. “He was absolute fun to be with. Bev was one of the most gracious and unassuming men I have known. He was always encouraging and supportive, a man of deep faith and strong commitment to Jesus Christ.”
Shea is survived by his wife, Karlene, and his children from his first marriage, Ronald and Elaine. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Erma, who died in 1976.
Ron, born in 1948 in Chicago, graduated from Trinity International University in Deerfield, Ill., in 1971. For more than 30 years, Ron has been an associate in Crusade ministry through the BGEA, assisting in preparatory work for evangelistic crusades involving Mr. Graham and more recently for Franklin Graham’s ministry. He is married to the former Kathy Ford.
Details on the funeral service for Shea will be forthcoming.
Visit www.billygraham.org for additional information.
*******
For those interested, Bill Gaither has DVDs available featuring the singing of George Beverly Shea.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 17, AD 2013.
More articles in lower right margin.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
The Killing of Infants
Ever wonder why Christians oppose abortion? Part of the reason is found in the article below.
Why has the national news media ignored this story? Could it be because they do not want to show any negative aspects of abortion clinics? Could it be they are biased in favor of abortion?
Gosnell's Abortion Clinic Horrors Described
NASHVILLE (BP) -- Testimony to the horrors inside Kermit Gosnell's clinic continues to mount in the Philadelphia abortion doctor's murder trial.
In a trial that began in March, Gosnell faces seven counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of viable children who were killed after delivery and a count of third-degree murder in the death of a Virginia woman during a 2009 abortion.
Those seven babies were only some of hundreds at least six months into gestation who were killed outside the womb after induced delivery at Gosnell's clinic, a grand jury reported in 2011. After delivery, Gosnell -- or another staff member in his absence -- would jab scissors into the back of a baby's neck and cut the spinal cord, according to the grand jury. Gosnell called the killing of these children "snipping."
In recent testimony regarding practices at the Women's Medical Society clinic in West Philadelphia:
-- Former Gosnell employee Steven Massof said April 4 a "snipping" is "like a beheading," The Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Massof, serving a residency with Gosnell he later learned was unaccredited, performed abortions at the clinic. During his testimony, he guided jurors to feel the spot on the back of their necks where the children's spines would be severed. Several jurors did so, according to The Inquirer. When mothers were given drugs to induce sudden contractions, "[I]t would rain fetuses. Fetuses and blood all over the place," Massof said, according to Operation Rescue's Cheryl Sullenger, who was in the courtroom.
-- Lynda Williams said April 9 part of her job was to pick up the bodies of babies expelled from their mothers' wombs in the waiting room after receiving large doses of drugs to dilate their cervices. When a second-trimester child was still moving after being expelled into a toilet, Williams said she followed Gosnell's training by using scissors to cut his spinal cord. "I did it once, and I didn't do it again because it gave me the creeps," she said, The Inquirer reported.
-- Photos of several dead babies were shown to the jury April 2. Each had a "gaping wound" in the back of his neck, Sullenger reported.
-- Karen Feisullin, who performs abortions in her practice as an obstetrician/gynecologist, said April 2 she had never heard of a doctor "snipping" the spinal cords of babies, according to The Inquirer. She also said there was no medical reason for Gosnell's habit of severing the feet of babies and storing them in jars.
-- Philadelphia Fire Department Lt. Don Burgess testified March 25 that firefighters were unable to take a woman on a stretcher through the clinic's hallways because they were too narrow, The Inquirer reported. Paramedics were trying to save the life of Kamamaya Mongar, 41, who went into a coma during an abortion and died. Though an emergency door was near Mongar, it was chained shut and no one on staff, including Gosnell, had a key, Burgess said. Firefighters opened the door with a bolt-cutter to take her to the hospital, where she died.
Gosnell could receive a death sentence if he is found guilty of a first-degree murder charge. The trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.
-Baptist Press; bpnews.net.
See more at:
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=40073
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 14, AD 2013.
More articles in lower right margin.
Why has the national news media ignored this story? Could it be because they do not want to show any negative aspects of abortion clinics? Could it be they are biased in favor of abortion?
Gosnell's Abortion Clinic Horrors Described
NASHVILLE (BP) -- Testimony to the horrors inside Kermit Gosnell's clinic continues to mount in the Philadelphia abortion doctor's murder trial.
In a trial that began in March, Gosnell faces seven counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of viable children who were killed after delivery and a count of third-degree murder in the death of a Virginia woman during a 2009 abortion.
Those seven babies were only some of hundreds at least six months into gestation who were killed outside the womb after induced delivery at Gosnell's clinic, a grand jury reported in 2011. After delivery, Gosnell -- or another staff member in his absence -- would jab scissors into the back of a baby's neck and cut the spinal cord, according to the grand jury. Gosnell called the killing of these children "snipping."
In recent testimony regarding practices at the Women's Medical Society clinic in West Philadelphia:
-- Former Gosnell employee Steven Massof said April 4 a "snipping" is "like a beheading," The Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Massof, serving a residency with Gosnell he later learned was unaccredited, performed abortions at the clinic. During his testimony, he guided jurors to feel the spot on the back of their necks where the children's spines would be severed. Several jurors did so, according to The Inquirer. When mothers were given drugs to induce sudden contractions, "[I]t would rain fetuses. Fetuses and blood all over the place," Massof said, according to Operation Rescue's Cheryl Sullenger, who was in the courtroom.
-- Lynda Williams said April 9 part of her job was to pick up the bodies of babies expelled from their mothers' wombs in the waiting room after receiving large doses of drugs to dilate their cervices. When a second-trimester child was still moving after being expelled into a toilet, Williams said she followed Gosnell's training by using scissors to cut his spinal cord. "I did it once, and I didn't do it again because it gave me the creeps," she said, The Inquirer reported.
-- Photos of several dead babies were shown to the jury April 2. Each had a "gaping wound" in the back of his neck, Sullenger reported.
-- Karen Feisullin, who performs abortions in her practice as an obstetrician/gynecologist, said April 2 she had never heard of a doctor "snipping" the spinal cords of babies, according to The Inquirer. She also said there was no medical reason for Gosnell's habit of severing the feet of babies and storing them in jars.
-- Philadelphia Fire Department Lt. Don Burgess testified March 25 that firefighters were unable to take a woman on a stretcher through the clinic's hallways because they were too narrow, The Inquirer reported. Paramedics were trying to save the life of Kamamaya Mongar, 41, who went into a coma during an abortion and died. Though an emergency door was near Mongar, it was chained shut and no one on staff, including Gosnell, had a key, Burgess said. Firefighters opened the door with a bolt-cutter to take her to the hospital, where she died.
Gosnell could receive a death sentence if he is found guilty of a first-degree murder charge. The trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.
-Baptist Press; bpnews.net.
See more at:
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=40073
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 14, AD 2013.
More articles in lower right margin.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
What the Bible Says About Homosexuality
Often people speak of a biblical subject as though everyone knows what the Bible says. They may not know, however, and may have never taken the time or do not know how to look up the biblical teaching.
Since the Bible is God’s holy, inspired, inerrant Word, we should approach it with reverence and as our final rule for faith and practice. It is God’s manual for how we are to live our lives.
While one should read them in context, following are the major Scriptures that deal with homosexuality and same-sex marriage:
Sodom and Gomorrah
Homosexuality is first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Sodom and Gomorrah. This was not their only sin, but it was certainly a prominent one, and a reason God judged these cities.
But the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord. -Genesis 13:13
And the Lord said, “Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grave. -Genesis 18:20
4 Now before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, both old and young, all the people from every quarter, surrounded the house. 5 And they called to Lot and said to him, “Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us that we may know them carnally.” -Genesis 19:4-5
Then the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah, from the Lord out of the heavens. -Genesis 19:24
The look on their countenance witnesses against them, And they declare their sin as Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to their soul! For they have brought evil upon themselves. -Isaiah 3:9
Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city! -Jesus Christ; Matthew 10:15
And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly. -2 Peter 2:6
As Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. -Jude 7
Other Scripture
You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination. -Leviticus 18:22
If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them. -Leviticus 20:13
No one is asking for this penalty of death today, but this Scripture shows the seriousness with which God viewed this sin. What a contrast to our present day culture in entertainment and pornography where most any deviant practice is acceptable. Some things are an abomination (abhorrent, disgusting) to a holy God.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting. -Romans 1:26-28
9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. -1 Corinthians 6:9-11
This is perhaps the most important Scripture about homosexuality. Notice that some of the saints were involved in immorality, but they were saved by faith in Jesus. Whether this sin or any other sin, after all we are all sinners (Romans 3:23), Jesus blood can make the vilest sinner clean.
For fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine. -1 Timothy 1:10
Jesus’ View on Marriage
6 But from the beginning of the creation, God ‘made them male and female.’ 7 ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” -Jesus Christ; Mark 10:6-9 (Jesus is referring to Bible passages in Genesis 1:27; 2:24; 5:2).
Forgiveness of Sin
We are all sinners. But if we repent (turn from) our sins and ask God’s forgiveness, He will forgive and cleanse us of all sin.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. -1 John 1:9
God has a Plan A and a Plan B.
2 My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world. -1 John 2:1-2
God’s Plan A is that you do not sin in the first place. That is always the best practice. It is easier to not start in a particular sin, than to start and then struggle to stop. Some sinful practices will grab you and not let you go. So stay far away.
But we are human and sometimes fall. God still loves us and has a Plan B. If we sin, we may still have to deal with the consequences, but if we repent and come back to God, He will forgive us. Jesus loves you, and He died for you. Trust in Him. Stay close to Jesus, His Word, and His church. Stay far from sin.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 9, AD 2013.
Jesus Christ on Same-Sex Marriage
Why Wait?
Other articles in lower right margin.
Since the Bible is God’s holy, inspired, inerrant Word, we should approach it with reverence and as our final rule for faith and practice. It is God’s manual for how we are to live our lives.
While one should read them in context, following are the major Scriptures that deal with homosexuality and same-sex marriage:
Sodom and Gomorrah
Homosexuality is first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Sodom and Gomorrah. This was not their only sin, but it was certainly a prominent one, and a reason God judged these cities.
But the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord. -Genesis 13:13
And the Lord said, “Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grave. -Genesis 18:20
4 Now before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, both old and young, all the people from every quarter, surrounded the house. 5 And they called to Lot and said to him, “Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us that we may know them carnally.” -Genesis 19:4-5
Then the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah, from the Lord out of the heavens. -Genesis 19:24
The look on their countenance witnesses against them, And they declare their sin as Sodom; they do not hide it. Woe to their soul! For they have brought evil upon themselves. -Isaiah 3:9
Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city! -Jesus Christ; Matthew 10:15
And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly. -2 Peter 2:6
As Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. -Jude 7
Other Scripture
You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination. -Leviticus 18:22
If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them. -Leviticus 20:13
No one is asking for this penalty of death today, but this Scripture shows the seriousness with which God viewed this sin. What a contrast to our present day culture in entertainment and pornography where most any deviant practice is acceptable. Some things are an abomination (abhorrent, disgusting) to a holy God.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting. -Romans 1:26-28
9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. -1 Corinthians 6:9-11
This is perhaps the most important Scripture about homosexuality. Notice that some of the saints were involved in immorality, but they were saved by faith in Jesus. Whether this sin or any other sin, after all we are all sinners (Romans 3:23), Jesus blood can make the vilest sinner clean.
For fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine. -1 Timothy 1:10
Jesus’ View on Marriage
6 But from the beginning of the creation, God ‘made them male and female.’ 7 ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” -Jesus Christ; Mark 10:6-9 (Jesus is referring to Bible passages in Genesis 1:27; 2:24; 5:2).
Forgiveness of Sin
We are all sinners. But if we repent (turn from) our sins and ask God’s forgiveness, He will forgive and cleanse us of all sin.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. -1 John 1:9
God has a Plan A and a Plan B.
2 My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world. -1 John 2:1-2
God’s Plan A is that you do not sin in the first place. That is always the best practice. It is easier to not start in a particular sin, than to start and then struggle to stop. Some sinful practices will grab you and not let you go. So stay far away.
But we are human and sometimes fall. God still loves us and has a Plan B. If we sin, we may still have to deal with the consequences, but if we repent and come back to God, He will forgive us. Jesus loves you, and He died for you. Trust in Him. Stay close to Jesus, His Word, and His church. Stay far from sin.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, April 9, AD 2013.
Jesus Christ on Same-Sex Marriage
Why Wait?
Other articles in lower right margin.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Robert A. Baker on Original Sin, Guilt, Sin Nature
“Sin as Inheritance and Choice
Sin is presented in two aspects in the New Testament - as inheritance and as voluntary choice. The first is known as original sin - the mark of sin upon the human race (Romans 5:19). Original sin does not involve guilt (John 9:3; cf. Ezekiel 18:20). God does not condemn for personal sin the innocent babe who does not know right from wrong. Original sin means, rather, that the nature of every child born into the world is corrupted so that when he becomes old enough to know right from wrong the child will choose sin instead of righteousness (1 Corinthians 2:14; Romans 7:18). Before a child is able to choose, he is not guilty before God; but when he learns to know right from wrong, because of original sin he will choose against God and become guilty before God.
The second aspect of sin has been suggested already. The whole human race has become tainted through original sin (Romans 3:9). As soon as any child reaches the age of accountability, he, by reason of that taint, chooses personally to sin (Romans 8:7-8). Then he becomes guilty of sin as a personal choice.”
-Dr. Robert A. Baker, The Baptist March in History, Convention Press, Nashville; 1958.
Dr. Baker (AD 1910-1992) served in the U.S. Secret Service, and as pastor. He was a graduate of Baylor University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Yale University. He served for many years as professor of Church History at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Further information on Inherited Guilt vs. Inherited Sin Nature see:
Born Guilty? by Dr. Adam Harwood
Interview with Dr. Adam Harwood
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 25, AD 2013.
Traditional Southern Baptist Understanding of Salvation
Other Articles in lower right margin.
Sin is presented in two aspects in the New Testament - as inheritance and as voluntary choice. The first is known as original sin - the mark of sin upon the human race (Romans 5:19). Original sin does not involve guilt (John 9:3; cf. Ezekiel 18:20). God does not condemn for personal sin the innocent babe who does not know right from wrong. Original sin means, rather, that the nature of every child born into the world is corrupted so that when he becomes old enough to know right from wrong the child will choose sin instead of righteousness (1 Corinthians 2:14; Romans 7:18). Before a child is able to choose, he is not guilty before God; but when he learns to know right from wrong, because of original sin he will choose against God and become guilty before God.
The second aspect of sin has been suggested already. The whole human race has become tainted through original sin (Romans 3:9). As soon as any child reaches the age of accountability, he, by reason of that taint, chooses personally to sin (Romans 8:7-8). Then he becomes guilty of sin as a personal choice.”
-Dr. Robert A. Baker, The Baptist March in History, Convention Press, Nashville; 1958.
Dr. Baker (AD 1910-1992) served in the U.S. Secret Service, and as pastor. He was a graduate of Baylor University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Yale University. He served for many years as professor of Church History at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Further information on Inherited Guilt vs. Inherited Sin Nature see:
Born Guilty? by Dr. Adam Harwood
Interview with Dr. Adam Harwood
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 25, AD 2013.
Traditional Southern Baptist Understanding of Salvation
Other Articles in lower right margin.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Ancient Wine Production and the Bible
Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.
-1 Thessalonians 5:6
Misperceptions abound about the Bible and wine. Many believe the wine of the Bible was the same as today and always alcoholic. But the biblical and ancient words for wine were generic; they referred to both alcoholic and nonalcoholic wine (much like the English words: drink, cider, liquor, punch, eggnog).
For example, Jesus referred to unfermented wine as “wine” (Greek word, oinos; Matthew 9:17). The Old Testament referred to just pressed grapes as “wine” (Proverbs 3:10; Isaiah 16:10; Joel 2:24). Just pressed grapes produce nonalcoholic wine or grape juice. It refers to grapes on the vine as “wine’ (Isaiah 65:8). Scripture even speaks of infants crying for wine (Lamentations 2:11-12); parents do not give alcoholic, but nonalcoholic wine to infants.
Ancient writers did not have a word for alcohol, but Aristotle, Plutarch, Pliny, Hippocrates, Columella, Athenaeus and others recognized some wine would intoxicate and some would not. Aristotle said sweet wine (which had not fermented, thereby taking away it’s sweetness) would not inebriate. Plutarch gave a confused discussion of why sweet wine would not intoxicate, and other wine would.
Nonalcoholic wine was common and when the Bible refers to wine, it must be determined by the context whether it is referring to alcoholic or nonalcoholic wine. Some wine was dangerous (Proverbs 20:1; Isaiah 28:7), some was not (Judges 9:13; Psalm 104:15; Zechariah 9:17). Scripture says Jesus turned water to wine (oinos); it does not say the sinless Christ turned water to beverage alcohol. Remember Jesus Himself called nonalcoholic wine “oinos.”
Another misperception is that all ancient wine was fermented and alcoholic, except for a brief period between pressing the grapes and when fermentation set in. Many contend fermentation could not be prevented until the 1860s discovery of pasteurization (and Welch’s). Some authorities have said Passover wine had to be fermented since Passover was in the Spring, months after the grape harvest. History, ancient knowledge, and science disprove this assumption.
Actually, unfermented wine was easier for ancients to produce and preserve than alcoholic wine. Methods included boiling down fresh wine to a thick consistency that would not spoil or ferment. When ready to drink, they simply added water. This thick, strong wine (grape molasses, pekmez, vincotto) was also used for cooking.* The grape harvest lasted six months and certain type grapes would keep fresh for months. These grapes could be pressed into wine at any time of the year (Genesis 40:11). Dried grapes or raisins were re-hydrated and pressed into fresh un-intoxicating wine, a practice used by many Jews right up to modern times. Ancient warriors were issued cakes of dried grapes to make their own wine as needed. Nonalcoholic wine was also preserved with salt and lactic fermentation.
These and other methods were commonly used by ancients to produce and preserve nonalcoholic wine. Just because we do not know these ancient methods, in no way means they did not know. This unfermented wine was widespread and held in high esteem. In contrast, drinkable alcoholic wine did not just magically happen; it was difficult to produce and preserve.
While most Baptists oppose alcohol, they still debate whether the Bible directly condemns it. I believe it does. Proverbs 20:1 directly calls wine a mocker. Proverbs 23:29-35 describes the effects of alcoholic wine and says not to even look at that kind of wine (23:31). 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 and 1 Peter 5:8 command us to be sober. Sober (Greek, nepho) literally means “wineless.” In addition a number of biblical principles teach against using alcohol (or any other mind-altering drug) for pleasure or recreation.
For these and many other reasons, for well over 100 years Baptists and the Church Covenant have wisely advised to abstain from the manufacture, sale, and use of beverage alcohol.
* I have some of this thick wine (grape molasses); made in Lebanon, purchased through amazon.com. While it says to refrigerate after opening, I opened it, then kept it at room temperature. It has kept in perfect condition, without spoiling or fermenting, for over two years.
-by David R. Brumbelow, P.O. Box 300, Lake Jackson, TX 77566 USA.
© AD 2013. Brumbelow is a pastor and graduate of ETBU and SWBTS. He is author of Ancient Wine and the Bible: The Case for Abstinence, freechurchpress.com; and The Wit and Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow. David writes at gulfcoastpastor.blogspot.com.
Permission granted to reproduce this article.
This article was first published at SBCToday.com.
Note: This article is available in PDF form, and available for Alcohol and Drug AbusePrevention Sunday (3rd Sunday of March), etc. Find it at:
Alcohol And Drug Abuse Prevention Sunday - Free Resources
Read more in:
Ancient Wine and the Bible - the Book
Adrian Rogers on Alcohol, Drinking, Wine
11 Reasons to Not Drink Alcohol
More articles in lower right margin.
-1 Thessalonians 5:6
Misperceptions abound about the Bible and wine. Many believe the wine of the Bible was the same as today and always alcoholic. But the biblical and ancient words for wine were generic; they referred to both alcoholic and nonalcoholic wine (much like the English words: drink, cider, liquor, punch, eggnog).
For example, Jesus referred to unfermented wine as “wine” (Greek word, oinos; Matthew 9:17). The Old Testament referred to just pressed grapes as “wine” (Proverbs 3:10; Isaiah 16:10; Joel 2:24). Just pressed grapes produce nonalcoholic wine or grape juice. It refers to grapes on the vine as “wine’ (Isaiah 65:8). Scripture even speaks of infants crying for wine (Lamentations 2:11-12); parents do not give alcoholic, but nonalcoholic wine to infants.
Ancient writers did not have a word for alcohol, but Aristotle, Plutarch, Pliny, Hippocrates, Columella, Athenaeus and others recognized some wine would intoxicate and some would not. Aristotle said sweet wine (which had not fermented, thereby taking away it’s sweetness) would not inebriate. Plutarch gave a confused discussion of why sweet wine would not intoxicate, and other wine would.
Nonalcoholic wine was common and when the Bible refers to wine, it must be determined by the context whether it is referring to alcoholic or nonalcoholic wine. Some wine was dangerous (Proverbs 20:1; Isaiah 28:7), some was not (Judges 9:13; Psalm 104:15; Zechariah 9:17). Scripture says Jesus turned water to wine (oinos); it does not say the sinless Christ turned water to beverage alcohol. Remember Jesus Himself called nonalcoholic wine “oinos.”
Another misperception is that all ancient wine was fermented and alcoholic, except for a brief period between pressing the grapes and when fermentation set in. Many contend fermentation could not be prevented until the 1860s discovery of pasteurization (and Welch’s). Some authorities have said Passover wine had to be fermented since Passover was in the Spring, months after the grape harvest. History, ancient knowledge, and science disprove this assumption.
Actually, unfermented wine was easier for ancients to produce and preserve than alcoholic wine. Methods included boiling down fresh wine to a thick consistency that would not spoil or ferment. When ready to drink, they simply added water. This thick, strong wine (grape molasses, pekmez, vincotto) was also used for cooking.* The grape harvest lasted six months and certain type grapes would keep fresh for months. These grapes could be pressed into wine at any time of the year (Genesis 40:11). Dried grapes or raisins were re-hydrated and pressed into fresh un-intoxicating wine, a practice used by many Jews right up to modern times. Ancient warriors were issued cakes of dried grapes to make their own wine as needed. Nonalcoholic wine was also preserved with salt and lactic fermentation.
These and other methods were commonly used by ancients to produce and preserve nonalcoholic wine. Just because we do not know these ancient methods, in no way means they did not know. This unfermented wine was widespread and held in high esteem. In contrast, drinkable alcoholic wine did not just magically happen; it was difficult to produce and preserve.
While most Baptists oppose alcohol, they still debate whether the Bible directly condemns it. I believe it does. Proverbs 20:1 directly calls wine a mocker. Proverbs 23:29-35 describes the effects of alcoholic wine and says not to even look at that kind of wine (23:31). 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 and 1 Peter 5:8 command us to be sober. Sober (Greek, nepho) literally means “wineless.” In addition a number of biblical principles teach against using alcohol (or any other mind-altering drug) for pleasure or recreation.
For these and many other reasons, for well over 100 years Baptists and the Church Covenant have wisely advised to abstain from the manufacture, sale, and use of beverage alcohol.
* I have some of this thick wine (grape molasses); made in Lebanon, purchased through amazon.com. While it says to refrigerate after opening, I opened it, then kept it at room temperature. It has kept in perfect condition, without spoiling or fermenting, for over two years.
-by David R. Brumbelow, P.O. Box 300, Lake Jackson, TX 77566 USA.
© AD 2013. Brumbelow is a pastor and graduate of ETBU and SWBTS. He is author of Ancient Wine and the Bible: The Case for Abstinence, freechurchpress.com; and The Wit and Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow. David writes at gulfcoastpastor.blogspot.com.
Permission granted to reproduce this article.
This article was first published at SBCToday.com.
Note: This article is available in PDF form, and available for Alcohol and Drug AbusePrevention Sunday (3rd Sunday of March), etc. Find it at:
Alcohol And Drug Abuse Prevention Sunday - Free Resources
Read more in:
Ancient Wine and the Bible - the Book
Adrian Rogers on Alcohol, Drinking, Wine
11 Reasons to Not Drink Alcohol
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Dr. Roy Fish on Calvinism, Predestination; part 2 of 2
Predestination and Foreknowledge
Scripture plainly teaches that predestination, which means to destine beforehand, is based on foreknowledge. God chose those whom He knew beforehand would choose Him! That’s why Paul said, in Romans 8:29-30 in that tremendous passage, “For whom He foreknew…” You’d better start where Paul starts. “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…” But He predestines on the basis of foreknowledge! The same thing is said in I Peter 1:2...
God elects, God predestines on the basis of knowing beforehand. That’s what the word “foreknowledge” means. I’ve checked it out in the Greek. It just means God knows what’s going to happen.
I had the privilege, last Saturday flying from DFW to Atlanta, I had the privilege of sitting by a schoolteacher who is going to Germany to be a teacher at one of our English-speaking schools in a military area of Germany. And she had a church background. But she had a deep deep disturbance in her soul. In fact, she was so deeply disturbed that she went to a chaplain there and told him how deeply disturbed she was, but she didn’t get any satisfaction or any peace. Well, needless to say, that kind of situation to a professor of evangelism means “Sick ‘em.” Excuse me for my failure in decorum and dignity there. But I knew that God was dealing with this lady. Her heart was hungry and open. See, God knew the situation. She said, “It’s sheer accident that I’m in this seat. I’m supposed to be in another seat.” But God knew the hunger of her heart. And God knew that she was ready for the message of Jesus. And He took all of the factors regarding her background, her hunger, and He chooses to use a vessel that was committed to Him to share the gospel. And sometimes I’m not that vessel that I want to be. And that is God’s way of demonstrating His election.
God elects and God foreordains and God predestines, but on the basis of foreknowledge.
Limited Atonement
The L in the TULIP stands for Limited Atonement, or Limited Love, or Particular Redemption. It really says that God did not love all men enough to have Christ die for all. It says that God didn’t care about the non-elect. He loved only those who would respond to Him in repentance.
I was discussing with an adamant Calvinist one day this very subject. He is a man of God but he doesn’t give 2 cents for the non-elect. He’s not interested in them. He couldn’t care less. I said, “You mean God doesn’t love them?” He said, “No, God doesn’t love them. He doesn’t love the non-elect.” I said to him, “Do you believe that the rich young ruler was one of the non-elect?” He said, “Yeah. He flatly turned down the Lord Jesus Christ. He turned Him down. He was one of the non-elect.” So I just turned my Bible to Mark 10. I said, “I want you to read this and stuff it in your Hyper-Calvinistic pipe!” The Bible says that when Jesus looked on the rich young ruler who was just about ready to reject Him, when Jesus looked on him, He loved him! And that word “love” is the same word that’s used in John 3:16. It’s the famous Greek word, “agape”! Jesus looked on this lost person and He loved him! And you will never pass a person on the streets of Mobile that God doesn’t love. You will never rub shoulders with anybody in a crowded shopping center that God does not love.
Limited atonement almost brings me to the point of righteous indignation. Why? Well first of all because limited atonement depersonalizes the offer of the gospel. You see, you cannot look a person in the face, if you want to witness to them about Jesus, you cannot look at them in the face and say to them, “Jesus Christ died for you.” You can’t do that. Because you don’t know that He did! You don’t know if they are one of the elect or not! Many Calvinists say, “We can offer the gospel to all,” but I want to say that that is impossible under Calvinism. How can you offer a salvation that is not provided? And If Jesus didn’t die for somebody, then salvation is not provided, and you cannot offer salvation to all.
Friend, I want to tell you, when I began to wonder how is God going to receive someone who has made as many mistakes as I, who has sinned as much as I have, friend, I look to the Cross. I look to the Cross. “Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to the Cross I cling.” He died for me, God. That’s the only way I expect to be received. That’s the only way I expect to get into heaven. But if atonement is limited, how can I be sure that He died for me? In final analysis, I can’t! And that’s a part of the reason why I detest the tenet of limited atonement.
Now scholastic Calvinism says it is the duty of all people everywhere to believe. But listen, in the light of Limited Atonement, I ask you - believe what? They can’t believe that Jesus died for them because they don’t know that for sure! All people are commanded to believe, but it becomes a very nebulous proposition at that point. Believe what?
Irresistible Grace
The I in the TULIP is what is called Irresistible Grace. That means that people who are going to be saved have no other option. They really don’t have a choice. The grace of God cannot be resisted. They cannot resist this special saving grace. Now the corollary to this follows: That is that those who are not elected are irresistibly damned– they cannot be saved. Like those who receive grace cannot resist it, so those who receive damnation cannot resist it.
Now, this is one reason why some groups have virtually given up on evangelism. Because it follows that if God works so irresistibly to either save or damn, Christians cannot affect the salvation of sinners, so they feel no responsibility for sharing that which might even have a tendency to interfere with the immutable purposes of God.
Sovereignty of God and Free Will of People
Now, ladies and gentlemen, all of us here, I trust, believe in the sovereignty of God – the absolute sovereignty of God. It is taught in the Bible. But along with the sovereignty of God, taught in the Bible also is the free will of people. You and I can choose. You say, “How can that be reconciled? That God is sovereign and yet people can make choices – people have a will regarding what they are going to do? If God is sovereign, how do you reconcile it? I don’t have to. Friend, there are times when you start looking at God that you scrutinize the inscrutable. And God doesn’t have one bit of trouble reconciling His sovereignty with man’s free will.
It was Spurgeon who was trying to lead a person to Christ, and somebody got frightened – they were always having to caution Spurgeon. “You may be speaking to one of the non-elect!” Spurgeon said, “Well….it’s all right. I don’t think God would mind too much if a few of the non-elect got saved.” My kind of Calvinist.
Dwight L. Moody, the great evangelist wisely said, “The elect are the ‘whosoever will’s.’ The non-elect are the ‘whosoever wont’s.’”
God’s grace can be resisted. People do not have to say “yes to the call of God, and nobody is compelled to say “no” to the call of God.
I believe getting involved in Reformed theology is a backward step that you as an individual or that you as a church do not want to take.
-Dr. Roy Fish, Excerpts from “The C Word (Calvinism)” preached August 11, AD 1997 at Cottage Hills Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama. Part 2 of 2
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 4, AD 2013.
Other Articles:
John 3:16 Conference, 2013
Roy Fish on Calvinism; part 1 of 2
Books on Calvinism, Predestination
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Sunday; Free Resources
Robert G. Lee On Calvinism
Unlimited Atonement, Jesus Died For All
Other Articles on this and many other subjects in lower right margin.
Scripture plainly teaches that predestination, which means to destine beforehand, is based on foreknowledge. God chose those whom He knew beforehand would choose Him! That’s why Paul said, in Romans 8:29-30 in that tremendous passage, “For whom He foreknew…” You’d better start where Paul starts. “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…” But He predestines on the basis of foreknowledge! The same thing is said in I Peter 1:2...
God elects, God predestines on the basis of knowing beforehand. That’s what the word “foreknowledge” means. I’ve checked it out in the Greek. It just means God knows what’s going to happen.
I had the privilege, last Saturday flying from DFW to Atlanta, I had the privilege of sitting by a schoolteacher who is going to Germany to be a teacher at one of our English-speaking schools in a military area of Germany. And she had a church background. But she had a deep deep disturbance in her soul. In fact, she was so deeply disturbed that she went to a chaplain there and told him how deeply disturbed she was, but she didn’t get any satisfaction or any peace. Well, needless to say, that kind of situation to a professor of evangelism means “Sick ‘em.” Excuse me for my failure in decorum and dignity there. But I knew that God was dealing with this lady. Her heart was hungry and open. See, God knew the situation. She said, “It’s sheer accident that I’m in this seat. I’m supposed to be in another seat.” But God knew the hunger of her heart. And God knew that she was ready for the message of Jesus. And He took all of the factors regarding her background, her hunger, and He chooses to use a vessel that was committed to Him to share the gospel. And sometimes I’m not that vessel that I want to be. And that is God’s way of demonstrating His election.
God elects and God foreordains and God predestines, but on the basis of foreknowledge.
Limited Atonement
The L in the TULIP stands for Limited Atonement, or Limited Love, or Particular Redemption. It really says that God did not love all men enough to have Christ die for all. It says that God didn’t care about the non-elect. He loved only those who would respond to Him in repentance.
I was discussing with an adamant Calvinist one day this very subject. He is a man of God but he doesn’t give 2 cents for the non-elect. He’s not interested in them. He couldn’t care less. I said, “You mean God doesn’t love them?” He said, “No, God doesn’t love them. He doesn’t love the non-elect.” I said to him, “Do you believe that the rich young ruler was one of the non-elect?” He said, “Yeah. He flatly turned down the Lord Jesus Christ. He turned Him down. He was one of the non-elect.” So I just turned my Bible to Mark 10. I said, “I want you to read this and stuff it in your Hyper-Calvinistic pipe!” The Bible says that when Jesus looked on the rich young ruler who was just about ready to reject Him, when Jesus looked on him, He loved him! And that word “love” is the same word that’s used in John 3:16. It’s the famous Greek word, “agape”! Jesus looked on this lost person and He loved him! And you will never pass a person on the streets of Mobile that God doesn’t love. You will never rub shoulders with anybody in a crowded shopping center that God does not love.
Limited atonement almost brings me to the point of righteous indignation. Why? Well first of all because limited atonement depersonalizes the offer of the gospel. You see, you cannot look a person in the face, if you want to witness to them about Jesus, you cannot look at them in the face and say to them, “Jesus Christ died for you.” You can’t do that. Because you don’t know that He did! You don’t know if they are one of the elect or not! Many Calvinists say, “We can offer the gospel to all,” but I want to say that that is impossible under Calvinism. How can you offer a salvation that is not provided? And If Jesus didn’t die for somebody, then salvation is not provided, and you cannot offer salvation to all.
Friend, I want to tell you, when I began to wonder how is God going to receive someone who has made as many mistakes as I, who has sinned as much as I have, friend, I look to the Cross. I look to the Cross. “Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to the Cross I cling.” He died for me, God. That’s the only way I expect to be received. That’s the only way I expect to get into heaven. But if atonement is limited, how can I be sure that He died for me? In final analysis, I can’t! And that’s a part of the reason why I detest the tenet of limited atonement.
Now scholastic Calvinism says it is the duty of all people everywhere to believe. But listen, in the light of Limited Atonement, I ask you - believe what? They can’t believe that Jesus died for them because they don’t know that for sure! All people are commanded to believe, but it becomes a very nebulous proposition at that point. Believe what?
Irresistible Grace
The I in the TULIP is what is called Irresistible Grace. That means that people who are going to be saved have no other option. They really don’t have a choice. The grace of God cannot be resisted. They cannot resist this special saving grace. Now the corollary to this follows: That is that those who are not elected are irresistibly damned– they cannot be saved. Like those who receive grace cannot resist it, so those who receive damnation cannot resist it.
Now, this is one reason why some groups have virtually given up on evangelism. Because it follows that if God works so irresistibly to either save or damn, Christians cannot affect the salvation of sinners, so they feel no responsibility for sharing that which might even have a tendency to interfere with the immutable purposes of God.
Sovereignty of God and Free Will of People
Now, ladies and gentlemen, all of us here, I trust, believe in the sovereignty of God – the absolute sovereignty of God. It is taught in the Bible. But along with the sovereignty of God, taught in the Bible also is the free will of people. You and I can choose. You say, “How can that be reconciled? That God is sovereign and yet people can make choices – people have a will regarding what they are going to do? If God is sovereign, how do you reconcile it? I don’t have to. Friend, there are times when you start looking at God that you scrutinize the inscrutable. And God doesn’t have one bit of trouble reconciling His sovereignty with man’s free will.
It was Spurgeon who was trying to lead a person to Christ, and somebody got frightened – they were always having to caution Spurgeon. “You may be speaking to one of the non-elect!” Spurgeon said, “Well….it’s all right. I don’t think God would mind too much if a few of the non-elect got saved.” My kind of Calvinist.
Dwight L. Moody, the great evangelist wisely said, “The elect are the ‘whosoever will’s.’ The non-elect are the ‘whosoever wont’s.’”
God’s grace can be resisted. People do not have to say “yes to the call of God, and nobody is compelled to say “no” to the call of God.
I believe getting involved in Reformed theology is a backward step that you as an individual or that you as a church do not want to take.
-Dr. Roy Fish, Excerpts from “The C Word (Calvinism)” preached August 11, AD 1997 at Cottage Hills Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama. Part 2 of 2
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 4, AD 2013.
Other Articles:
John 3:16 Conference, 2013
Roy Fish on Calvinism; part 1 of 2
Books on Calvinism, Predestination
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Sunday; Free Resources
Robert G. Lee On Calvinism
Unlimited Atonement, Jesus Died For All
Other Articles on this and many other subjects in lower right margin.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Alcohol And Drug Abuse Prevention Sunday - Free Resources
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Sunday or Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday is observed by Southern Baptists on the 3rd Sunday of March.
While this is on the SBC Calendar, it is up to the local church or Sunday School whether or not they participate. I encourage you to do so. It gives you a great opportunity to teach, preach, and distribute literature on the danger of alcohol and substance abuse. Many have never heard a sermon on alcohol.
Baptists have been encouraged to get more involved in this issue. For example, the SBC passed a 2006 Resolution saying in part,
“RESOLVED, That we urge Southern Baptists to be actively involved in educating students and adults concerning the destructive nature of alcoholic beverages…” -SBC Resolution, On Alcohol Use In America.
There are many ways to observe Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday, such as any of the following:
Preaching an entire sermon on alcohol and drug abuse.
At least make a point or two in the sermon on this subject.
A simple announcement in church and Sunday School.
A Sunday School lesson, or an addition to the lesson.
A note in the Church Bulletin.
A bulletin insert, or passing out literature that informs on this issue.
A book study on this topic.
By the way, if you’ve been hesitant to speak out on this issue, the official Alcohol & Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday gives you a great excuse and opportunity to do so.
The book Ancient Wine and the Bible has a wealth of sermon illustrations in it and is a good sermon resource for this emphasis. It also lists many additional resources.
I’d also encourage non-SBC churches to speak out on substance abuse.
A free resource for this day is listed below.
This PDF on Ancient Wine Production and the Bible can be copied and reproduced for free, provided the entire pamphlet is copied. It is designed to be easily printed, front and back, and folded, in bulletin form.
This can be used for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday, or any other occasion. It can be used as a handout, study guide, or bulletin insert. Your church name & address can be included on the back. It can also be used as a sermon resource. If it is of help, I’d love to hear back from you.
[PDF - ANCIENT WINE PRODUCTION AND THE BIBLE]
[PDF - SBC RESOLUTION ON ALCOHOL]
God willing, other free PDF resources will follow. You might want to use a different one each year.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 26, AD 2013.
Articles:
11 Reasons to Not Drink Alcohol
Ancient Wine and the Bible; the book
Biblical Principles Condemn Alcohol
Preserving Unfermented Wine in Bible Times
2006 SBC Resolution on Alcohol Use in America
About the Church Covenant
Dr. R. L. Sumner on "Ancient Wine and the Bible"
Other Articles in lower right margin.
While this is on the SBC Calendar, it is up to the local church or Sunday School whether or not they participate. I encourage you to do so. It gives you a great opportunity to teach, preach, and distribute literature on the danger of alcohol and substance abuse. Many have never heard a sermon on alcohol.
Baptists have been encouraged to get more involved in this issue. For example, the SBC passed a 2006 Resolution saying in part,
“RESOLVED, That we urge Southern Baptists to be actively involved in educating students and adults concerning the destructive nature of alcoholic beverages…” -SBC Resolution, On Alcohol Use In America.
There are many ways to observe Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday, such as any of the following:
Preaching an entire sermon on alcohol and drug abuse.
At least make a point or two in the sermon on this subject.
A simple announcement in church and Sunday School.
A Sunday School lesson, or an addition to the lesson.
A note in the Church Bulletin.
A bulletin insert, or passing out literature that informs on this issue.
A book study on this topic.
By the way, if you’ve been hesitant to speak out on this issue, the official Alcohol & Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday gives you a great excuse and opportunity to do so.
The book Ancient Wine and the Bible has a wealth of sermon illustrations in it and is a good sermon resource for this emphasis. It also lists many additional resources.
I’d also encourage non-SBC churches to speak out on substance abuse.
A free resource for this day is listed below.
This PDF on Ancient Wine Production and the Bible can be copied and reproduced for free, provided the entire pamphlet is copied. It is designed to be easily printed, front and back, and folded, in bulletin form.
This can be used for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday, or any other occasion. It can be used as a handout, study guide, or bulletin insert. Your church name & address can be included on the back. It can also be used as a sermon resource. If it is of help, I’d love to hear back from you.
[PDF - ANCIENT WINE PRODUCTION AND THE BIBLE]
[PDF - SBC RESOLUTION ON ALCOHOL]
God willing, other free PDF resources will follow. You might want to use a different one each year.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 26, AD 2013.
Articles:
11 Reasons to Not Drink Alcohol
Ancient Wine and the Bible; the book
Biblical Principles Condemn Alcohol
Preserving Unfermented Wine in Bible Times
2006 SBC Resolution on Alcohol Use in America
About the Church Covenant
Dr. R. L. Sumner on "Ancient Wine and the Bible"
Other Articles in lower right margin.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Roy Fish on Calvinism; part 1 of 2
Evangelism Professor Roy Fish served Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS) for almost 50 years. He occupied the L. R. Scarborough Chair of Evangelism, also called the Chair of Fire. He changed the lives of countless students. He led “Revive This Nation,” that sent out hundreds of SWBTS students to preach Revivals in local churches around the country. I had the opportunity on several occasions to hear him preach and lecture; you were always inspired to be a better Christian and evangelist.
Dr. Fish was a graduate of the University of Arkansas and SWBTS. He had a degree in Church History. He authored several books and numerous articles and essays on evangelism. He preached throughout the United States and the world.
Roy Fish served as interim president of the North American Mission Board, was awarded the W. A. Criswell Lifetime Achievement Award from the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC), and the Charles G. Finney Award for Evangelism in Theological Education. The SBTC has established the Roy Fish Evangelism Award.
SWBTS president Paige Patterson, said, “Dr. Roy Fish was at once a fabulous lecturer and the most consistent soul-winner I know…God help us all to love lost people like he did.”
Dr. Steve Gaines, pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church, Cordova, Tennessee said, “Without hyperbole, I can truthfully say I never met a man greater than Roy Fish…He turned down job positions where he could make more money than he made as a seminary professor but the wealth he turned down is not worthy to be compared to the riches he poured into students decade after decade. Nor is it comparable to millions who've heard the Gospel because of him training thousands of preachers.”
Roy Fish’s son Steve recalled numerous times when his father would share the Gospel with neighbors, strangers, waitresses and people they met on family vacations.
On August 11, 1997 Dr. Roy Fish preached a famous sermon at Cottage Hills Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama. The host pastor was Fred Wolfe. Fish’s sermon was on “The ‘C’ Word” or Calvinism. He did not leave anyone wondering where he stood.
Following are excerpts from that well-known sermon.
*******
Many Shades of Calvinism
There are many shades of Calvinism. There are degrees to which people accept the basic tenets of this system, as I call it, of Calvinism. There are the “old school” Calvinists, the “hyper-Calvinists,” the “classic” Calvinists, the “moderate” Calvinists. And the modern thrust, as I understand it, is encouraging us to embrace all 5 of the major points of classical Calvinism.”
Assurance of Salvation
Asahel Nettleton was a great evangelist in the first 25 years of the 19th century. In fact you might call him the “Billy Graham” of that period of time…And thousands of people were converted under the ministry of this great evangelist. But Nettleton had this to say about his own salvation, being a very committed Calvinist, as almost all Christians in New England were at that time…Nettleton had this to say about his own salvation: “The most that I have ever ventured to say respecting myself is that I think it possible that I may get to heaven.”
It’s not that he was afraid of losing salvation. He knew that he couldn’t do that. He believed in the perseverance of the saints. He knew his salvation could never be lost. His fear was, this great evangelist, his fear was that he might never have had salvation in the first place. I ask you to compare this with the statement of the apostle Paul: “I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him against that day.”
Now, Nettleton was a very prominent man. He was a Calvinist. But he was an honest man. He was willing to admit that when tuned to its finest point, Calvinism eliminates the possibility of assurance of salvation.
Calvinism is extremely weak when it comes to giving assurance to believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is very difficult to know for sure – if you are a committed Calvinist – it is very difficult to know for sure whether or not you have eternal life. Assurance in Calvinism is based on the quality of the life of the believer. It is a matter of obedience to the commands of God.
Now, I might say that it wouldn’t hurt most of us to do a little bit of introspection, not so much as to whether or not we are going to be in celestial mansions, as Ian Murray says, but just to see if my life is pleasing to Jesus Christ and if I am measuring up to Him.
If Christ didn’t die for all (and that is a part of the Calvinistic system, that He didn’t die for all), if Christ didn’t die for all, and if it is possible to have a sorrow for sin that is not true repentance (and Calvinism teaches that), and a faith which is not a true faith, and possessing of the Spirit which falls short of true regeneration, if despite any and every experience of the gospel there is a way to Hell almost from the gates of Heaven, if Paul himself, as they say, feared he would lose his own salvation, then what remains of assurance for a Calvinist?
Danger of Calvinism to Evangelism
There is the danger of what Calvinism can do to evangelism and missions. Now, I want to surprise you by saying that this is not always the case. A moderate kind of Calvinism has been the most vital and virile kind of evangelism this country has ever known. And yet Calvinism has undercut missionary and evangelistic efforts.
Calvinism has led many churches and even entire denominations away from a belief in instantaneous conversion. As I read my New Testament I cannot help but believe that conversion is an instantaneous experience. It is possible that you do not remember precisely when it happened, but whether you do or whether you don’t, conversion is instantaneous. And Calvinism had led churches to the point where they believed that you had to go through a series of stages, maybe 3 or 4, and these stages could take months. And then after 9 months or 12 months, only then were you a real candidate for conversion.
A kind of Calvinism has virtually brought to a standstill evangelism in certain Baptist groups. They believed that if God were going to save people, that He would not do it through human instruments. Like [John] Rylans said, “If He wants to convert somebody, He’ll do it without you or me.” And they believed this. So they ceased to try to win people to Jesus.
They were a large Baptist group in the 19th century. Today they are only a handful. We call them the “Primitive Baptists” or the “Hardshell Baptists,” who have just about gone out of existence because they rejected evangelism and the winning of people to Jesus Christ through sharing the message with them.
I listened to a tape yesterday of a contemporary preacher who addressed the issue of evangelism. He is a 5-point Calvinist. He has spoken at many of our Baptist meetings. And referring to people as either spiritually dead or spiritually alive, he made this statement, “It is impossible to evangelize the spiritually dead.” I couldn’t believe my ears! “It is impossible to evangelize the spiritually dead.” If we don’t evangelize the spiritually dead, that leaves us with one option, and that is to evangelize those who are spiritually alive! And if I understand what it means to be spiritually alive, those who are spiritually alive don’t need evangelism!
Dead in Sins and Regeneration Before Faith
Is mankind so depraved that he cannot respond to God in repentance and faith? The answer of the Calvinists at this point is “Yes. Man is so depraved that he cannot respond to God in repentance and faith in that depraved condition. We are dead in trespasses and sins,” the Calvinists would say, “and dead people cannot respond.”
I want to remind you that when Adam and Eve sinned against God, they spiritually died. But when God spoke to them in the Garden, they heard him. People who were dead in trespasses and sins, Adam and Eve, heard the voice of God. They not only heard the voice of God, they were convicted about what they had done, and they obeyed God. they put on themselves skins of animals. So to say that a person who is dead in trespasses and sins simply cannot hear God speaking does not have biblical basis.
Every time the scripture speaks about life, whether it’s John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life,” or whether it’s John 5:24, “Verily, verily I say unto you, he that hears My word and believes on Him that sent Me has everlasting life,” when you hear or read those terms “everlasting life,” friend, I want to tell you that life comes out of this new birth. It is a reference to the life that God gives to us, and the New Testament is transparently clear that one believes or trusts into eternal life! It’s not something that you already have! You believe into it! You don’t have it until you trust!
So don’t hear me saying that one comes to a grasp of saving faith apart from the Holy Spirit. But the Holy Spirit – and this is the point – the Holy Spirit does not have to make us alive before we have this saving faith. Rather as passage after passage says, saving faith in Jesus and His redeeming work makes us alive in Him.
That regeneration precedes repentance and faith is nothing but sheer implication, faulty logic, and glaringly lacking in biblical basis.
-Dr. Roy Fish, Excerpts from “The C Word (Calvinism)” preached August 11, AD 1997 at Cottage Hills Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama. Part 1 of 2.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 25, AD 2013.
Dr. Roy Fish on Calvinism, Predestination; part 2 of 2
Other Articles on this and many other subjects in lower right margin.
Dr. Fish was a graduate of the University of Arkansas and SWBTS. He had a degree in Church History. He authored several books and numerous articles and essays on evangelism. He preached throughout the United States and the world.
Roy Fish served as interim president of the North American Mission Board, was awarded the W. A. Criswell Lifetime Achievement Award from the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC), and the Charles G. Finney Award for Evangelism in Theological Education. The SBTC has established the Roy Fish Evangelism Award.
SWBTS president Paige Patterson, said, “Dr. Roy Fish was at once a fabulous lecturer and the most consistent soul-winner I know…God help us all to love lost people like he did.”
Dr. Steve Gaines, pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church, Cordova, Tennessee said, “Without hyperbole, I can truthfully say I never met a man greater than Roy Fish…He turned down job positions where he could make more money than he made as a seminary professor but the wealth he turned down is not worthy to be compared to the riches he poured into students decade after decade. Nor is it comparable to millions who've heard the Gospel because of him training thousands of preachers.”
Roy Fish’s son Steve recalled numerous times when his father would share the Gospel with neighbors, strangers, waitresses and people they met on family vacations.
On August 11, 1997 Dr. Roy Fish preached a famous sermon at Cottage Hills Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama. The host pastor was Fred Wolfe. Fish’s sermon was on “The ‘C’ Word” or Calvinism. He did not leave anyone wondering where he stood.
Following are excerpts from that well-known sermon.
*******
Many Shades of Calvinism
There are many shades of Calvinism. There are degrees to which people accept the basic tenets of this system, as I call it, of Calvinism. There are the “old school” Calvinists, the “hyper-Calvinists,” the “classic” Calvinists, the “moderate” Calvinists. And the modern thrust, as I understand it, is encouraging us to embrace all 5 of the major points of classical Calvinism.”
Assurance of Salvation
Asahel Nettleton was a great evangelist in the first 25 years of the 19th century. In fact you might call him the “Billy Graham” of that period of time…And thousands of people were converted under the ministry of this great evangelist. But Nettleton had this to say about his own salvation, being a very committed Calvinist, as almost all Christians in New England were at that time…Nettleton had this to say about his own salvation: “The most that I have ever ventured to say respecting myself is that I think it possible that I may get to heaven.”
It’s not that he was afraid of losing salvation. He knew that he couldn’t do that. He believed in the perseverance of the saints. He knew his salvation could never be lost. His fear was, this great evangelist, his fear was that he might never have had salvation in the first place. I ask you to compare this with the statement of the apostle Paul: “I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him against that day.”
Now, Nettleton was a very prominent man. He was a Calvinist. But he was an honest man. He was willing to admit that when tuned to its finest point, Calvinism eliminates the possibility of assurance of salvation.
Calvinism is extremely weak when it comes to giving assurance to believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is very difficult to know for sure – if you are a committed Calvinist – it is very difficult to know for sure whether or not you have eternal life. Assurance in Calvinism is based on the quality of the life of the believer. It is a matter of obedience to the commands of God.
Now, I might say that it wouldn’t hurt most of us to do a little bit of introspection, not so much as to whether or not we are going to be in celestial mansions, as Ian Murray says, but just to see if my life is pleasing to Jesus Christ and if I am measuring up to Him.
If Christ didn’t die for all (and that is a part of the Calvinistic system, that He didn’t die for all), if Christ didn’t die for all, and if it is possible to have a sorrow for sin that is not true repentance (and Calvinism teaches that), and a faith which is not a true faith, and possessing of the Spirit which falls short of true regeneration, if despite any and every experience of the gospel there is a way to Hell almost from the gates of Heaven, if Paul himself, as they say, feared he would lose his own salvation, then what remains of assurance for a Calvinist?
Danger of Calvinism to Evangelism
There is the danger of what Calvinism can do to evangelism and missions. Now, I want to surprise you by saying that this is not always the case. A moderate kind of Calvinism has been the most vital and virile kind of evangelism this country has ever known. And yet Calvinism has undercut missionary and evangelistic efforts.
Calvinism has led many churches and even entire denominations away from a belief in instantaneous conversion. As I read my New Testament I cannot help but believe that conversion is an instantaneous experience. It is possible that you do not remember precisely when it happened, but whether you do or whether you don’t, conversion is instantaneous. And Calvinism had led churches to the point where they believed that you had to go through a series of stages, maybe 3 or 4, and these stages could take months. And then after 9 months or 12 months, only then were you a real candidate for conversion.
A kind of Calvinism has virtually brought to a standstill evangelism in certain Baptist groups. They believed that if God were going to save people, that He would not do it through human instruments. Like [John] Rylans said, “If He wants to convert somebody, He’ll do it without you or me.” And they believed this. So they ceased to try to win people to Jesus.
They were a large Baptist group in the 19th century. Today they are only a handful. We call them the “Primitive Baptists” or the “Hardshell Baptists,” who have just about gone out of existence because they rejected evangelism and the winning of people to Jesus Christ through sharing the message with them.
I listened to a tape yesterday of a contemporary preacher who addressed the issue of evangelism. He is a 5-point Calvinist. He has spoken at many of our Baptist meetings. And referring to people as either spiritually dead or spiritually alive, he made this statement, “It is impossible to evangelize the spiritually dead.” I couldn’t believe my ears! “It is impossible to evangelize the spiritually dead.” If we don’t evangelize the spiritually dead, that leaves us with one option, and that is to evangelize those who are spiritually alive! And if I understand what it means to be spiritually alive, those who are spiritually alive don’t need evangelism!
Dead in Sins and Regeneration Before Faith
Is mankind so depraved that he cannot respond to God in repentance and faith? The answer of the Calvinists at this point is “Yes. Man is so depraved that he cannot respond to God in repentance and faith in that depraved condition. We are dead in trespasses and sins,” the Calvinists would say, “and dead people cannot respond.”
I want to remind you that when Adam and Eve sinned against God, they spiritually died. But when God spoke to them in the Garden, they heard him. People who were dead in trespasses and sins, Adam and Eve, heard the voice of God. They not only heard the voice of God, they were convicted about what they had done, and they obeyed God. they put on themselves skins of animals. So to say that a person who is dead in trespasses and sins simply cannot hear God speaking does not have biblical basis.
Every time the scripture speaks about life, whether it’s John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life,” or whether it’s John 5:24, “Verily, verily I say unto you, he that hears My word and believes on Him that sent Me has everlasting life,” when you hear or read those terms “everlasting life,” friend, I want to tell you that life comes out of this new birth. It is a reference to the life that God gives to us, and the New Testament is transparently clear that one believes or trusts into eternal life! It’s not something that you already have! You believe into it! You don’t have it until you trust!
So don’t hear me saying that one comes to a grasp of saving faith apart from the Holy Spirit. But the Holy Spirit – and this is the point – the Holy Spirit does not have to make us alive before we have this saving faith. Rather as passage after passage says, saving faith in Jesus and His redeeming work makes us alive in Him.
That regeneration precedes repentance and faith is nothing but sheer implication, faulty logic, and glaringly lacking in biblical basis.
-Dr. Roy Fish, Excerpts from “The C Word (Calvinism)” preached August 11, AD 1997 at Cottage Hills Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama. Part 1 of 2.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 25, AD 2013.
Dr. Roy Fish on Calvinism, Predestination; part 2 of 2
Other Articles on this and many other subjects in lower right margin.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
John 3:16 Conference, 2013
The 2013 John 3:16 Conference will be March 21-22, 2013.
Presented by Jerry Vines Ministries
Hosted by North Metro Baptist Church, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Conference Topics:
For Whose Sins Did Jesus Die?
What Did We Inherit From Adam?
Does Regeneration Precede Faith?
What Were The Early SBC Leaders’ Views On Salvation?
Who Are The Elect?
Is The Sinners’ Prayer Biblical?
Speakers:
Frank Cox - Pastor of North Metro Baptist Church, Lawrenceville, Georgia
David Allen - Dean of the School of Theology, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas
Emir Caner - President of Truett-McConnell College, Georgia
Steve Gaines - Pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, Tennessee
Eric Hankins - Pastor of First Baptist Church, Oxford, Mississippi
Adam Harwood - Professor of Christian Studies, Truett-McConnell College, Georgia
Jerry Vines - Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Florida; past president of the Southern Baptist Convention
Conference Registration: $65
Student Registration: $55
The last John 3:16 Conference resulted in the book,
Whosoever Will: A Biblical-Theological Critique of Five-Point Calvinism, Edited by David L. Allen and Steve W. Lemke, B&H; 2010.
For More Information:
John 3:16 Conference, 2013
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 21, AD 2013.
Other articles in lower right margin.
Presented by Jerry Vines Ministries
Hosted by North Metro Baptist Church, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Conference Topics:
For Whose Sins Did Jesus Die?
What Did We Inherit From Adam?
Does Regeneration Precede Faith?
What Were The Early SBC Leaders’ Views On Salvation?
Who Are The Elect?
Is The Sinners’ Prayer Biblical?
Speakers:
Frank Cox - Pastor of North Metro Baptist Church, Lawrenceville, Georgia
David Allen - Dean of the School of Theology, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas
Emir Caner - President of Truett-McConnell College, Georgia
Steve Gaines - Pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, Tennessee
Eric Hankins - Pastor of First Baptist Church, Oxford, Mississippi
Adam Harwood - Professor of Christian Studies, Truett-McConnell College, Georgia
Jerry Vines - Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Florida; past president of the Southern Baptist Convention
Conference Registration: $65
Student Registration: $55
The last John 3:16 Conference resulted in the book,
Whosoever Will: A Biblical-Theological Critique of Five-Point Calvinism, Edited by David L. Allen and Steve W. Lemke, B&H; 2010.
For More Information:
John 3:16 Conference, 2013
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 21, AD 2013.
Other articles in lower right margin.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
R. G. Lee on Calvinism
R. G. Lee (AD 1886-1978) was pastor of Citadel Square Baptist Church, Charleston, South Carolina, First Baptist Church, New Orleans, Louisiana, and Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, Tennessee (1927-1960). He served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention and authored numerous books. Lee was a conservative leader in the SBC. He was very evangelistic. Many of his sermons were published in the Sword of the Lord. I had the privilege of hearing and meeting Dr. Lee. Back in the day my preacher dad, Joe Brumbelow, called him, “The greatest living preacher.” Lee’s most famous sermon was, “Payday Someday.”
Recently someone has referred to R. G. Lee numerous times as having been a 5-point Calvinist. I have no doubt Lee was a Calvinist, but what most would probably refer to as a Moderate Calvinist (or perhaps today a Traditionalist or a non-Calvinist, the descriptors vary). From the direct quotes below, it is obvious that Dr. R. G. Lee was not a 5-point or Strict Calvinist. Rather than Limited Atonement (Jesus died only for the elect), Dr. Lee believed Jesus died for all mankind. He could look any man in the eyes and say, Jesus died for you.
“Wonderful inclusiveness here, in the outstretched and encircling arms of the Christian Gospel - ‘to everyone.’ Nobody excluded. Everybody included.” -R. G. Lee, The Name Above Every Name, Christ for the World Publishers, Revell; 1938.
“There is no ground for boasting. The beggar who puts forth his hand and takes the gift can claim no credit. Believing is not in itself a virtuous act, a meritorious effort by which the sinner earns the favour of God. No, all boasting is excluded by the very freeness and simplicity of salvation which at the same time excludes all excuse from those who refuse or neglect it.” -R. G. Lee, The Name Above Every Name, Christ for the World Publishers, Revell; 1938.
“Just as there is universal guilt among men, so there is the universal offer of salvation from God…Repeatedly God declares that sin is universal, that no one escapes. Repeatedly, too, God declares the atonement to be universal. That does not mean that salvation is universal, for many will not be saved…God has done His part for man’s salvation, but man fails or refuses to do his part. That is the sum and substance of all excuses and objections. Man’s free and wicked will is the only barrier in the way of his salvation.” -R. G. Lee, God’s Answer to Man’s Question, Zondervan; 1962.
“Jesus died for all (2 Corinthians 5:15), gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Timothy 2:6), tasted death for every man (Hebrews 2:9), and would have all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:3,4). God put the iniquity of all on Jesus (Isaiah 53:6), wishes all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30), does not wish any to perish (2 Peter 3:9). God’s grace that bringeth salvation has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11). God teaches that whosoever believeth shall not perish (John 3:16).” -R. G. Lee, God’s Answer to Man’s Question, Zondervan; 1962.
On 2 Corinthians 5:21, “Meaning what? Meaning that on the cross Jesus became for you, for me, for every man, all that the holy and just God must judge that we, through faith in him, might become all that God cannot judge.” -R. G. Lee, Heart to Heart, Broadman; 1977.
“Jesus, by the sacrifice of Himself, could redeem as many fallen worlds as God has stars in His Heaven - because the infinite merit of the Son of God atones for the sins of the whole world.” -R. G. Lee, Great is the Lord, Christ for the World Publishers, Revell; 1960.
Some of my dad’s most prized possessions were his books by Dr. R. G. Lee. I would recommend any preacher, young or old, to get every book you can by Robert Greene Lee.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 17, AD 2013.
Update Note: Some have also claimed W. A. Criswell as a 5-point Calvinist.
This is not the case, as seen in:
Calvinists recruit W.A. Criswell to their cause by Peter Lumpkins
Articles:
Books on Calvinism, Predestination
Paige Patterson on Calvinism
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Francis Wayland on Calvinism in 1856
Traditional Baptists (Non-Calvinists) Of 1840
More articles in lower right margin.
Recently someone has referred to R. G. Lee numerous times as having been a 5-point Calvinist. I have no doubt Lee was a Calvinist, but what most would probably refer to as a Moderate Calvinist (or perhaps today a Traditionalist or a non-Calvinist, the descriptors vary). From the direct quotes below, it is obvious that Dr. R. G. Lee was not a 5-point or Strict Calvinist. Rather than Limited Atonement (Jesus died only for the elect), Dr. Lee believed Jesus died for all mankind. He could look any man in the eyes and say, Jesus died for you.
“Wonderful inclusiveness here, in the outstretched and encircling arms of the Christian Gospel - ‘to everyone.’ Nobody excluded. Everybody included.” -R. G. Lee, The Name Above Every Name, Christ for the World Publishers, Revell; 1938.
“There is no ground for boasting. The beggar who puts forth his hand and takes the gift can claim no credit. Believing is not in itself a virtuous act, a meritorious effort by which the sinner earns the favour of God. No, all boasting is excluded by the very freeness and simplicity of salvation which at the same time excludes all excuse from those who refuse or neglect it.” -R. G. Lee, The Name Above Every Name, Christ for the World Publishers, Revell; 1938.
“Just as there is universal guilt among men, so there is the universal offer of salvation from God…Repeatedly God declares that sin is universal, that no one escapes. Repeatedly, too, God declares the atonement to be universal. That does not mean that salvation is universal, for many will not be saved…God has done His part for man’s salvation, but man fails or refuses to do his part. That is the sum and substance of all excuses and objections. Man’s free and wicked will is the only barrier in the way of his salvation.” -R. G. Lee, God’s Answer to Man’s Question, Zondervan; 1962.
“Jesus died for all (2 Corinthians 5:15), gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Timothy 2:6), tasted death for every man (Hebrews 2:9), and would have all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:3,4). God put the iniquity of all on Jesus (Isaiah 53:6), wishes all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30), does not wish any to perish (2 Peter 3:9). God’s grace that bringeth salvation has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11). God teaches that whosoever believeth shall not perish (John 3:16).” -R. G. Lee, God’s Answer to Man’s Question, Zondervan; 1962.
On 2 Corinthians 5:21, “Meaning what? Meaning that on the cross Jesus became for you, for me, for every man, all that the holy and just God must judge that we, through faith in him, might become all that God cannot judge.” -R. G. Lee, Heart to Heart, Broadman; 1977.
“Jesus, by the sacrifice of Himself, could redeem as many fallen worlds as God has stars in His Heaven - because the infinite merit of the Son of God atones for the sins of the whole world.” -R. G. Lee, Great is the Lord, Christ for the World Publishers, Revell; 1960.
Some of my dad’s most prized possessions were his books by Dr. R. G. Lee. I would recommend any preacher, young or old, to get every book you can by Robert Greene Lee.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 17, AD 2013.
Update Note: Some have also claimed W. A. Criswell as a 5-point Calvinist.
This is not the case, as seen in:
Calvinists recruit W.A. Criswell to their cause by Peter Lumpkins
Articles:
Books on Calvinism, Predestination
Paige Patterson on Calvinism
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Francis Wayland on Calvinism in 1856
Traditional Baptists (Non-Calvinists) Of 1840
More articles in lower right margin.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Be Clothed In Modest Apparel
In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing. -1 Timothy 2:9
3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—
4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. -1 Peter 3:3-4
There is nothing wrong in itself with nice clothes and jewelry, just don‘t go overboard.
But a Christian lady should not rely on that for her beauty.
Nothing wrong with clothes that are in fashion.
But clothing should not be sexually suggestive.
Clothing should not imply that the wearer is immodest or immoral.
Moms and dads should occasionally talk with their daughters about this.
Males are very attracted to the opposite sex by sight.
Showing a little too much is going to get their attention, but the guys most attracted by sexy or immodest clothing - is that the kind of guy you really want to attract?
If that is what attracts him to you - is he going to be just as attracted to the next scantily clad girl who walks by?
Is that the kind of man you really want to marry?
By the way, these and other verses would also imply men should also dress and act decently.
Resources:
Baptist Press, bpnews.net. Do search for “Modesty.”
A Return To Modesty: Discovering the Lost Virtue by Wendy Shalit. www.modestyzone.net
www.purefashion.com
Teen Virtue, LifeWaystores.com
Your Girl: Raising a Godly Daughter in an Ungodly World; More Than Just Talk: A Journal For Girls; The Virtuous Woman: Shattering the Superwoman Myth, all by Vicki Courtney
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 23, AD 2013.
Other articles in lower right margin.
3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—
4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. -1 Peter 3:3-4
There is nothing wrong in itself with nice clothes and jewelry, just don‘t go overboard.
But a Christian lady should not rely on that for her beauty.
Nothing wrong with clothes that are in fashion.
But clothing should not be sexually suggestive.
Clothing should not imply that the wearer is immodest or immoral.
Moms and dads should occasionally talk with their daughters about this.
Males are very attracted to the opposite sex by sight.
Showing a little too much is going to get their attention, but the guys most attracted by sexy or immodest clothing - is that the kind of guy you really want to attract?
If that is what attracts him to you - is he going to be just as attracted to the next scantily clad girl who walks by?
Is that the kind of man you really want to marry?
By the way, these and other verses would also imply men should also dress and act decently.
Resources:
Baptist Press, bpnews.net. Do search for “Modesty.”
A Return To Modesty: Discovering the Lost Virtue by Wendy Shalit. www.modestyzone.net
www.purefashion.com
Teen Virtue, LifeWaystores.com
Your Girl: Raising a Godly Daughter in an Ungodly World; More Than Just Talk: A Journal For Girls; The Virtuous Woman: Shattering the Superwoman Myth, all by Vicki Courtney
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 23, AD 2013.
Other articles in lower right margin.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Because You Gave
This is the time of year churches send giving statements, for tax purposes, etc., to those who gave to the church the previous year. Along with that statement, our church is also sending the following:
Because You Gave
In the Year of our Lord 2012 you gave to our church. No one forced you to give, and you did not have to give a penny. But because you gave, you made a profound difference.
Because you gave to Northside Baptist Church of Highlands:
The work of our church was continued for another year.
The salaries of our pastor and staff were paid.
The electric and utility bills of our church were paid.
Christian literature such as Sunday School books, gospel tracts, magazines, Bibles, and Bible Study material of all kinds were available.
The church building was repaired and maintained.
The church grounds were mowed and cleaned.
Christian counsel was available to many.
Our church continues to stand as a lighthouse for Christ in this community.
The Bible and the Gospel have been taught and preached to all ages.
Christian fellowship, singing, and worship have continued.
People in this community and around the world have come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Guest preachers, singers, and missionaries were heard.
Many have been encouraged and have grown in their spiritual walk with the Lord.
Biblical values have been proclaimed.
You were obedient to God’s command to give tithes and offerings.
God has promised to bless and provide for you.
You were a good steward / manager of all that God has given you.
Mission money has been sent to continue the ministries of our Association, State Convention, and our national Southern Baptist Convention.
Thousands of missionaries throughout the United States and in over 120 countries have proclaimed the Gospel to a world in need of Jesus.
Benevolence work has been done in the name of Jesus around the world.
Many poor have been fed and disaster victims helped.
Mission funds have assisted ministerial and missionary students in colleges, universities, and six Southern Baptist Seminaries.
You have made an eternal difference in countless lives here and around the world.
There will be people in Heaven because of you.
You have laid up treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and thieves do not break in and steal.
Because You Gave
In the Year of our Lord 2012 you gave to our church. No one forced you to give, and you did not have to give a penny. But because you gave, you made a profound difference.
Because you gave to Northside Baptist Church of Highlands:
The work of our church was continued for another year.
The salaries of our pastor and staff were paid.
The electric and utility bills of our church were paid.
Christian literature such as Sunday School books, gospel tracts, magazines, Bibles, and Bible Study material of all kinds were available.
The church building was repaired and maintained.
The church grounds were mowed and cleaned.
Christian counsel was available to many.
Our church continues to stand as a lighthouse for Christ in this community.
The Bible and the Gospel have been taught and preached to all ages.
Christian fellowship, singing, and worship have continued.
People in this community and around the world have come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Guest preachers, singers, and missionaries were heard.
Many have been encouraged and have grown in their spiritual walk with the Lord.
Biblical values have been proclaimed.
You were obedient to God’s command to give tithes and offerings.
God has promised to bless and provide for you.
You were a good steward / manager of all that God has given you.
Mission money has been sent to continue the ministries of our Association, State Convention, and our national Southern Baptist Convention.
Thousands of missionaries throughout the United States and in over 120 countries have proclaimed the Gospel to a world in need of Jesus.
Benevolence work has been done in the name of Jesus around the world.
Many poor have been fed and disaster victims helped.
Mission funds have assisted ministerial and missionary students in colleges, universities, and six Southern Baptist Seminaries.
You have made an eternal difference in countless lives here and around the world.
There will be people in Heaven because of you.
You have laid up treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and thieves do not break in and steal.
Thank you for giving to the Lord!
“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” -Jesus Christ; Luke 6:38
Sincerely, Pastor David R. Brumbelow.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 15, AD 2013.
Other Articles:
Baptists on Tithing
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Obituary - Emmett Hunt
Emmett Lee Hunt passed away December 27, 2012. Born February 7, 1921, he was married to Lucille Vandenberg Hunt for 62 years, and they had three children. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour at the age of 15. Hunt served in the Army and was a graduate of Center High School, Center, TX and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He pastored churches in Irving, Tyler, Houston, and Rosenberg, Texas. Burial at Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a tax-deductible donation to Sam Craig Ministries, 521 Bunte Rd., Smithville, Texas 78957.
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. -Revelation 21:4
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 2, AD 2013.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a tax-deductible donation to Sam Craig Ministries, 521 Bunte Rd., Smithville, Texas 78957.
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. -Revelation 21:4
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 2, AD 2013.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Gun Control in Light of Connecticut School Shooting
First, my heart goes out to the loved ones of those murdered by the Connecticut school shooter. Words cannot describe the heartache they are enduring.
But since the issue has been raised again, this article deals with the issue of gun rights and gun control.
Reasons I’m for Gun Rights
1. Our constitution gives the people the right to keep and bear arms.
2. We have a great tradition of bearing arms to hunt and provide for families, and to protect ourselves from criminals and tyranny.
A dictator always desires to limit the people from bearing arms. Some have said, don’t trust a government that doesn’t trust a law abiding citizen to own a firearm. An invading military would much prefer the citizens be unarmed.
Hunters contribute many millions each year that is used to preserve wildlife and wildlife habitat.
Those who grew up hunting often are the best prepared to serve their country in time of war.
Regular citizens who bear arms have often been the first responders and have protected many.
3. Few can afford armed security guards. Ironically, many who clamor for gun control, have the resources to hire their own armed security.
4. Police usually can only arrive at the scene after the crime has taken place. Until that time, you are on your own.
5. Usually the thing that stops a mass shooting is a gun in the hands of a person on the right side of the law. Thus the call for school teachers, airline pilots, and responsible citizens to be allowed to legally carry a weapon. This is not a demand all should have a gun, just those who feel comfortable doing so.
If a gunman were attacking your child’s school and it would be five long minutes before police arrive, would you feel more comfortable knowing a teacher or two had a gun and knew how to use it?
When a criminal shooter arrives on the scene, if everyone else is unarmed, the victims are for the most part helpless until police arrive. And until police arrive, can seem like an eternity. Even after they arrive they usually take more time to assess the situation before finding and engaging the gunman.
6. A gun gives a person the ability to protect themselves against the strongest intruder. As they say in Texas, “God made man, but Sam Colt made them equal.” (Samuel Colt developed the six-shooter handgun the Texas Rangers made famous. In one case 15 Texas Rangers successfully fought 70 Comanche Indians.)
7. A multitude of reports show that the mere possession of a firearm often stops crime against the firearm owner. The National Rifle Association (NRA) has often documented such evidence. In other words, just letting an intruder see you have a firearm, often causes him to end the attack.
8. Children can be safely raised around guns. I was. I grew up in a wonderful Christian pastor’s home where hunting and guns were a routine part of life. Before we reached ten, my brothers and I had received a “real” gun for Christmas. Parents should use good judgment; but when kids are taught and shown that guns are a dangerous weapon, they are inclined to treat them with respect and safety.
9. It really is true that when you hinder law abiding folks from having guns, only the criminals will have guns. And the criminals are then unhindered in their crime.
An area hospital seems to proudly display in large writing that guns are not allowed in their building. Rather than scare the criminal, such “gun free zones” give him great comfort. They assure him that if there are no police around, no other law abiding person will have a gun to challenge his criminal activity.
10. The national media seems to be overwhelmingly in favor of more gun control. They should be called on their bias and the other side should be heard more often.
11. If you were going to break into a home, would you rather break into a home you knew did not have a gun, or one that did own a firearm?
12. Most people who go on a shooting spree are cowards. They quickly back down to armed opposition.
13. A law abiding citizen has the right to defend himself and his property. And a Christian has as much right as anyone to defend himself.
If the thief is found breaking in, and he is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt for his bloodshed. -Exodus 22:2
Jesus said to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39); He also said if you don’t have a sword, sell your garment and buy one (Luke 22:36). It sometimes depends on the individual situation.
King David said of God, “He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze” (2 Samuel 22:35; Psalm 18:34).
14. We are to be for peace, but sometimes the only way to make peace is to first make war. Some evil men will only be stopped at the point of a gun. Hence the need for law enforcement, and sometimes the need for a gun to defend yourself. Hence the Christian concept of a “Just War.”
If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. -Romans 12:18
For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. -Romans 13:4
15. An occasional horrific shooting is going to occur regardless of what we do. Let’s do all we can reasonably do to prevent it, but tragedies are going to happen. Sometimes that is the price we pay for freedom. Don’t blame the gun, blame the evil person who did the killing.
16. Guns are not evil. They are a tool that can be used for good or evil. Some years ago I had the great privilege of going to Israel, a nation under constant attack. On one occasion a person in our tour group was uneasy at the sight of Israeli troops carrying automatic rifles. My response was that it makes me feel more comfortable when the good guys have the guns.
Guns have protected multitudes.
17. Those with the ability to do so, perhaps should consider having a gun to protect themselves and others. If you do, get a good dependable gun (not the cheapest one), practice, and learn the basic rules of safety.
I know of a church who has a high percentage of members with concealed carry permits. Woe to the one who would try to harm them during a worship service.
In the early days of Texas it was common for circuit riding preachers to carry a sidearm. The story is told of a preacher asked why he carried a six-shooter. “Don’t you know if it’s God’s time for you to go, there’s nothing you can do about it?” The preacher replied, “Yes, but I might run into an Indian and it’s his time to go.”
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 19, 2012
Other article in lower right margin.
But since the issue has been raised again, this article deals with the issue of gun rights and gun control.
Reasons I’m for Gun Rights
1. Our constitution gives the people the right to keep and bear arms.
2. We have a great tradition of bearing arms to hunt and provide for families, and to protect ourselves from criminals and tyranny.
A dictator always desires to limit the people from bearing arms. Some have said, don’t trust a government that doesn’t trust a law abiding citizen to own a firearm. An invading military would much prefer the citizens be unarmed.
Hunters contribute many millions each year that is used to preserve wildlife and wildlife habitat.
Those who grew up hunting often are the best prepared to serve their country in time of war.
Regular citizens who bear arms have often been the first responders and have protected many.
3. Few can afford armed security guards. Ironically, many who clamor for gun control, have the resources to hire their own armed security.
4. Police usually can only arrive at the scene after the crime has taken place. Until that time, you are on your own.
5. Usually the thing that stops a mass shooting is a gun in the hands of a person on the right side of the law. Thus the call for school teachers, airline pilots, and responsible citizens to be allowed to legally carry a weapon. This is not a demand all should have a gun, just those who feel comfortable doing so.
If a gunman were attacking your child’s school and it would be five long minutes before police arrive, would you feel more comfortable knowing a teacher or two had a gun and knew how to use it?
When a criminal shooter arrives on the scene, if everyone else is unarmed, the victims are for the most part helpless until police arrive. And until police arrive, can seem like an eternity. Even after they arrive they usually take more time to assess the situation before finding and engaging the gunman.
6. A gun gives a person the ability to protect themselves against the strongest intruder. As they say in Texas, “God made man, but Sam Colt made them equal.” (Samuel Colt developed the six-shooter handgun the Texas Rangers made famous. In one case 15 Texas Rangers successfully fought 70 Comanche Indians.)
7. A multitude of reports show that the mere possession of a firearm often stops crime against the firearm owner. The National Rifle Association (NRA) has often documented such evidence. In other words, just letting an intruder see you have a firearm, often causes him to end the attack.
8. Children can be safely raised around guns. I was. I grew up in a wonderful Christian pastor’s home where hunting and guns were a routine part of life. Before we reached ten, my brothers and I had received a “real” gun for Christmas. Parents should use good judgment; but when kids are taught and shown that guns are a dangerous weapon, they are inclined to treat them with respect and safety.
9. It really is true that when you hinder law abiding folks from having guns, only the criminals will have guns. And the criminals are then unhindered in their crime.
An area hospital seems to proudly display in large writing that guns are not allowed in their building. Rather than scare the criminal, such “gun free zones” give him great comfort. They assure him that if there are no police around, no other law abiding person will have a gun to challenge his criminal activity.
10. The national media seems to be overwhelmingly in favor of more gun control. They should be called on their bias and the other side should be heard more often.
11. If you were going to break into a home, would you rather break into a home you knew did not have a gun, or one that did own a firearm?
12. Most people who go on a shooting spree are cowards. They quickly back down to armed opposition.
13. A law abiding citizen has the right to defend himself and his property. And a Christian has as much right as anyone to defend himself.
If the thief is found breaking in, and he is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt for his bloodshed. -Exodus 22:2
Jesus said to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39); He also said if you don’t have a sword, sell your garment and buy one (Luke 22:36). It sometimes depends on the individual situation.
King David said of God, “He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze” (2 Samuel 22:35; Psalm 18:34).
14. We are to be for peace, but sometimes the only way to make peace is to first make war. Some evil men will only be stopped at the point of a gun. Hence the need for law enforcement, and sometimes the need for a gun to defend yourself. Hence the Christian concept of a “Just War.”
If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. -Romans 12:18
For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. -Romans 13:4
15. An occasional horrific shooting is going to occur regardless of what we do. Let’s do all we can reasonably do to prevent it, but tragedies are going to happen. Sometimes that is the price we pay for freedom. Don’t blame the gun, blame the evil person who did the killing.
16. Guns are not evil. They are a tool that can be used for good or evil. Some years ago I had the great privilege of going to Israel, a nation under constant attack. On one occasion a person in our tour group was uneasy at the sight of Israeli troops carrying automatic rifles. My response was that it makes me feel more comfortable when the good guys have the guns.
Guns have protected multitudes.
17. Those with the ability to do so, perhaps should consider having a gun to protect themselves and others. If you do, get a good dependable gun (not the cheapest one), practice, and learn the basic rules of safety.
I know of a church who has a high percentage of members with concealed carry permits. Woe to the one who would try to harm them during a worship service.
In the early days of Texas it was common for circuit riding preachers to carry a sidearm. The story is told of a preacher asked why he carried a six-shooter. “Don’t you know if it’s God’s time for you to go, there’s nothing you can do about it?” The preacher replied, “Yes, but I might run into an Indian and it’s his time to go.”
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 19, 2012
Other article in lower right margin.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Henry W. Grady on Alcohol
“My friends, hesitate before you vote liquor back into Atlanta, now that it is shut out. Don't trust it. It is powerful, aggressive, and universal in its attacks. Tonight it enters an humble home to strike the roses from a woman's cheek, and tomorrow it challenges this Republic in the halls of Congress. Today it strikes a crust from the lips of a starving child, and tomorrow levies tribute from the government itself. There is no cottage in this city humble enough to escape it - no palace strong enough to shut it out. It defies the law when it cannot coerce suffrage. It is flexible to cajole, but merciless in victory. It is the mortal enemy of peace and order. The despoiler of men, the terror of women, the cloud that shadows the face of children, the demon that has dug more graves and sent more souls un-shrived* to judgment than all the pestilences that have wasted life since God sent the plagues to Egypt, and all the wars that have been fought since Joshua stood beyond Jericho.
Oh, my countrymen, loving God and humanity, do not bring this grand old city again under the dominion of that power!
It can profit no man by its return. It can uplift no industry, revive no interest, remedy no wrong. You know that it cannot.
It comes to destroy, and it shall profit mainly by the ruin of your sons or mine. It comes to mislead human souls and to crush human hearts under its rumbling wheels. It comes to destroy the wife's love into despair, and her pride into shame. It comes to still the laughter on the lips of little children. It comes to stifle all the music of the home and fill it with silence and desolation. It comes to ruin your body and mind, to wreck your home.”
-Henry W. Grady (AD 1850-1889). This is a portion of his speech given the evening of November 17, 1887 to a crowd of 8,000 in Atlanta, Georgia.
In his speech Grady also noted that money not spent on alcohol is saved and spent on things that strengthen the family and economy.
Henry W. Grady was a well-known journalist and outstanding orator of the post-Civil War days. He was a member of First Methodist Church, Atlanta, Georgia.
*Shrive - to free from guilt; to confess one’s sins. Un-shrive - un-forgiven, un-confessed
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 9, AD 2012.
Other Articles:
10 Commandments for Christmas
Dr. R. L. Sumner on "Ancient Wine and the Bible"
2006 SBC Resolution on Alcohol Use in America
Random Advice to Pastors, Part 1
Church Buildings - Dos and Don'ts #1
Jesus Christ on Same-Sex Marriage
More articles in lower right margin.
Oh, my countrymen, loving God and humanity, do not bring this grand old city again under the dominion of that power!
It can profit no man by its return. It can uplift no industry, revive no interest, remedy no wrong. You know that it cannot.
It comes to destroy, and it shall profit mainly by the ruin of your sons or mine. It comes to mislead human souls and to crush human hearts under its rumbling wheels. It comes to destroy the wife's love into despair, and her pride into shame. It comes to still the laughter on the lips of little children. It comes to stifle all the music of the home and fill it with silence and desolation. It comes to ruin your body and mind, to wreck your home.”
-Henry W. Grady (AD 1850-1889). This is a portion of his speech given the evening of November 17, 1887 to a crowd of 8,000 in Atlanta, Georgia.
In his speech Grady also noted that money not spent on alcohol is saved and spent on things that strengthen the family and economy.
Henry W. Grady was a well-known journalist and outstanding orator of the post-Civil War days. He was a member of First Methodist Church, Atlanta, Georgia.
*Shrive - to free from guilt; to confess one’s sins. Un-shrive - un-forgiven, un-confessed
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 9, AD 2012.
Other Articles:
10 Commandments for Christmas
Dr. R. L. Sumner on "Ancient Wine and the Bible"
2006 SBC Resolution on Alcohol Use in America
Random Advice to Pastors, Part 1
Church Buildings - Dos and Don'ts #1
Jesus Christ on Same-Sex Marriage
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Support Israel; Buy Their Products
I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. -Genesis 12:3
I say then, has God cast away His people? Certainly not! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. -Romans 11:1
Holy Scripture says the Jews are God’s chosen people (Deuteronomy 7:6; Romans 11:1). It says to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6). My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is a Jew (Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2). Christians are to love all people, but we should especially love and support Israel.
This does not mean everything Israel does is right. Like any other group, there are good Jews and bad Jews. But God has placed His hand on them. God said He would bless those who bless them, and curse those who curse them (Genesis 12:3).
One of the reasons God has blessed America is because we have been a friend to Israel. Thank God that the USA continues to support Israel.
One way we can be supportive of Israel is to buy their products. Purchasing products made in Israel helps support their economy and their country.
The question then comes, But how can I find products made in Israel?
Simple. Just go to:
buyisraelgoods.org
shopinisrael.com
Israeli Hardware, Tools
Christian Merchandise
Maybe you need a Mezuzah (Scripture to put on your doorpost), or a Shofar (ram’s horn, trumpet; used to call the Israelites to worship or to battle).
Did you know Lowes, J. C. Penney, Walmart, K-Mart, and Macy’s sell Israeli products?
Obviously, I would not support or buy every product made in Israel. So use your good judgment. But start supporting Israel not just in words, but in tangible ways.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, November 26, AD 2012.
Related Article:
Israel, May They Prosper Who Love You
Many other articles in lower right margin.
I say then, has God cast away His people? Certainly not! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. -Romans 11:1
Holy Scripture says the Jews are God’s chosen people (Deuteronomy 7:6; Romans 11:1). It says to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6). My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is a Jew (Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2). Christians are to love all people, but we should especially love and support Israel.
This does not mean everything Israel does is right. Like any other group, there are good Jews and bad Jews. But God has placed His hand on them. God said He would bless those who bless them, and curse those who curse them (Genesis 12:3).
One of the reasons God has blessed America is because we have been a friend to Israel. Thank God that the USA continues to support Israel.
One way we can be supportive of Israel is to buy their products. Purchasing products made in Israel helps support their economy and their country.
The question then comes, But how can I find products made in Israel?
Simple. Just go to:
buyisraelgoods.org
shopinisrael.com
Israeli Hardware, Tools
Christian Merchandise
Maybe you need a Mezuzah (Scripture to put on your doorpost), or a Shofar (ram’s horn, trumpet; used to call the Israelites to worship or to battle).
Did you know Lowes, J. C. Penney, Walmart, K-Mart, and Macy’s sell Israeli products?
Obviously, I would not support or buy every product made in Israel. So use your good judgment. But start supporting Israel not just in words, but in tangible ways.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, November 26, AD 2012.
Related Article:
Israel, May They Prosper Who Love You
Many other articles in lower right margin.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Dr. Boyd Hunt on the Atonement, Calvinism
Dr. W. Boyd Hunt (AD 1916-2007) was pastor of First Baptist Church, Houston, Texas, and theology professor (1953-1999) at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He shares some interesting views on the Atonement, Limited Atonement, modified Calvinism, and Hyper-Calvinism.
“In the post-Reformation period the views of the Reformers were often interpreted with extreme legalism. Hyper-Calvinism, with its view of a literal substitution and limited atonement (i.e., that Christ died for the elect only), developed in this period.
According to hyper-Calvinism, if Christ had died for the nonelect, their suffering eternally in hell would mean the exacting of the penalty twice, once from Christ on the cross and once from the sinner in hell. This, it was charged, would be unjust.
The most virile group of English Baptists in the 18th century were infected with this hyper-Calvinism. Holding to a limited atonement, they were called Particular Baptists, as opposed to General Baptists, who viewed the atonement as unlimited (i.e., that Christ died for all men).
Hyper-Calvinism persisted among Baptists in America longer than in England. It was dominant in the theology of James P. Boyce. The main stream of orthodox thought, however, has followed a modified Calvinism which interprets Christ’s substitutionary death in ethical and non-legalistic terms…It was the view of Edgar Y. Mullins and W. T. Conner.”
-Dr. W. Boyd Hunt, Encyclopedia of Southern Baptists, Broadman Press, Nashville; 1958.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, November14, AD 2012.
Other articles:
Romans 9, Calvinism, Traditionalism
Calvinism and Being Dead in Sins
Books on Calvinism, Predestination
More articles in lower right margin.
“In the post-Reformation period the views of the Reformers were often interpreted with extreme legalism. Hyper-Calvinism, with its view of a literal substitution and limited atonement (i.e., that Christ died for the elect only), developed in this period.
According to hyper-Calvinism, if Christ had died for the nonelect, their suffering eternally in hell would mean the exacting of the penalty twice, once from Christ on the cross and once from the sinner in hell. This, it was charged, would be unjust.
The most virile group of English Baptists in the 18th century were infected with this hyper-Calvinism. Holding to a limited atonement, they were called Particular Baptists, as opposed to General Baptists, who viewed the atonement as unlimited (i.e., that Christ died for all men).
Hyper-Calvinism persisted among Baptists in America longer than in England. It was dominant in the theology of James P. Boyce. The main stream of orthodox thought, however, has followed a modified Calvinism which interprets Christ’s substitutionary death in ethical and non-legalistic terms…It was the view of Edgar Y. Mullins and W. T. Conner.”
-Dr. W. Boyd Hunt, Encyclopedia of Southern Baptists, Broadman Press, Nashville; 1958.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, November14, AD 2012.
Other articles:
Romans 9, Calvinism, Traditionalism
Calvinism and Being Dead in Sins
Books on Calvinism, Predestination
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, October 29, 2012
What About Halloween?
Christian views about Halloween include:
1. Halloween is just innocent fun where you scare kids and trick-or-treat. Some churches even used to have a “Haunted House.”
2. Some add to #1 a few innocent, or not so innocent pranks. A common one years ago was turning over outhouses.
3. We should be cautious because Halloween has overtones of witchcraft.
4. We should not participate in Halloween at all because of its association with witchcraft, evil, etc.
5. Many Christians enjoy giving out candy to trick-or-treaters and including a Gospel tract geared to kids and / or Halloween. (See Halloween tracts at www.ATStracts.org; 800/548-7228). Or you could make your own flyer presenting the Gospel and inviting them to church.
6. Many churches now have a Fall Festival at Halloween. They de-emphasize the witchcraft side but have a great party for kids. It is a safe place for kids to go on Halloween. It gives them a chance to present kids and parents with the Gospel (Good News of Jesus).
7. Some churches have a “Judgment House” that presents what the Bible teaches about sin, forgiveness, Heaven and Hell.
Whatever your view of Halloween, a believer should have nothing to do with witchcraft, the occult, or astrology (astronomy is OK!).
Deuteronomy 18:10-14, The Bible (NKJV)
“There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead.
For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you. You shall be blameless before the Lord your God. For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you.” (See also Leviticus 19:26, 31; Galatians 5:20; etc.)
Our final say should be the Word of God.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, October 29, AD 2012.
Other Articles:
Why Use Tracts?
Sources of Gospel Tracts; Tract Racks
More articles in lower right hand margin.
1. Halloween is just innocent fun where you scare kids and trick-or-treat. Some churches even used to have a “Haunted House.”
2. Some add to #1 a few innocent, or not so innocent pranks. A common one years ago was turning over outhouses.
3. We should be cautious because Halloween has overtones of witchcraft.
4. We should not participate in Halloween at all because of its association with witchcraft, evil, etc.
5. Many Christians enjoy giving out candy to trick-or-treaters and including a Gospel tract geared to kids and / or Halloween. (See Halloween tracts at www.ATStracts.org; 800/548-7228). Or you could make your own flyer presenting the Gospel and inviting them to church.
6. Many churches now have a Fall Festival at Halloween. They de-emphasize the witchcraft side but have a great party for kids. It is a safe place for kids to go on Halloween. It gives them a chance to present kids and parents with the Gospel (Good News of Jesus).
7. Some churches have a “Judgment House” that presents what the Bible teaches about sin, forgiveness, Heaven and Hell.
Whatever your view of Halloween, a believer should have nothing to do with witchcraft, the occult, or astrology (astronomy is OK!).
Deuteronomy 18:10-14, The Bible (NKJV)
“There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead.
For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you. You shall be blameless before the Lord your God. For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you.” (See also Leviticus 19:26, 31; Galatians 5:20; etc.)
Our final say should be the Word of God.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, October 29, AD 2012.
Other Articles:
Why Use Tracts?
Sources of Gospel Tracts; Tract Racks
More articles in lower right hand margin.
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