The Final Choice
A sermon by Gipsy Smith (AD 1860-1947).
“And as he reasoned of righteousness and temperance (or, as the Revised Version has it, ‘self-control’) and judgment to come, Felix trembled (or, was terrified), and answered, Go thy way for this time: when I have a convenient season (and please note the little word ‘more’ which you so often put in when you quote this verse is not in the verse at all: it is often quoted, ‘When I have a more convenient season’; the word ‘more’ is not there) - when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee. -Acts 24:25
This is a wonderful picture. I wish I could paint it. Three people - one God’s prophet, God’s messenger, the other two a man and a woman who were living a very sinful life. Paul is in prison, awaiting his trial, and these two want some new excitement, something to amuse and something to entertain. Time, though they live in sin, hangs heavily. They are spending their money on that which is not bread, and their labour for that which satisfieth not, and like the man of whom we read that longed for some new pleasure and offered a reward to anybody who would invent one, these two want something to pass away the time, and so they send for God’s prophet that he may entertain them. Says the verse that precedes this one, “He sent for Paul and heard him concerning faith in Christ.”
And it needs courage to preach to one man, or to two people. There are those who can preach to the crowd. It takes a man with the vision of the Cross to preach to two people; to see that a little child may be a nation; and when we have the right spirit we shall see in one person something worth preaching to. If you are sent to preach the truth, you must be unsparing and faithful, you must declare the whole counsel of God. It takes courage to preach to the man who sits in a high position, when he is close to you, when he is in his own house and you are sitting at his table, or in his own room face to face.
That was the picture. There sat Drusilla, there sat Felix, and here stood Paul, and he may have had the chains on him, the chains that told of suffering for Christ’s sake. Paul never had a better chance than then of making a friend of one who would help him when the trial came on. His enemies were outside, his accusers were away. Those who were thirsting for his blood were not in this little, quiet meeting amongst the three. If he will only flatter, if he will only congratulate instead of expostulate, if he will fawn upon Felix and toady to him, if he will compromise he may capture this man at any rate, and he will have a friend at court when the day of trial comes.
But listen, Paul was not made of that material. He could suffer, he could die, but he could not sin, he could not trim. His message was burning in his very soul, his message had come down to him as “Thus saith the Lord.” And he seemed to take in the whole situation, and to realize that this was his only chance of dealing personally, pointedly, piercingly with this sinner in front of him and the other sinner beside him.
And so he reasoned - of the Cross? Not to begin with. Of the shed blood? Not to begin with. Did he preach from this text, “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son”? Not to begin with. Did he say, “He that believeth on the Son shall be saved”? No. He reasoned of righteousness, he talked about God’s hatred for sin, and he made sin appear sin.
He did not excuse sin; he meant Felix to see and feel the awfulness of his own sin. He reasoned of rightness, wholeness, Godlikeness, purity. He brought him up to face the blazing light and the scorching presence of God’s purity. He talked of righteousness. I do not think that that side of the truth in these days is enforced as it ought to be. We have preached the love of God till some are lovesick. You know God’s love; what you need to be told, and what I mean to tell you before I get through, is that God hates sin as much today as when Christ hung on the nails to put it away, and that he does not look upon sin with the least degree of allowance.
He reasoned of righteousness to a man who was unrighteous. He talked about self-control - temperance - to the man who was intemperate, and whose passion was running wild. The man within was riot. His whole being was in a state of anarchy, a rebel.
He talked of righteousness, judgment; and as I have tried to enforce before, religion that honours God is right-doing, walking straight, holding a constant witness to the cleansing power of the precious blood. It is not hunting up meetings and preachers and going to conventions, taking your pencils and writing down in little notebooks pretty little sayings, beautiful little extracts, pretty thoughts. It is letting them blaze in your life when the convention is over, when the meeting is past, when the Sunday is gone, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, three hundred and sixty-five days in the year all aglow, warm with holiness unto the Lord.
Righteousness - “The kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but rightness - rightness.” It is turning from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God. It is the wicked man forsaking his wickedness in conformity to the will of God. Righteousness - not going to church, nor being christened, or confirmed, or baptized, or taking communion. All that will fall into the proper place, but first of all righteousness, rightness, right-relationship with heaven, readjustment with God, putting me in my right place with God, and God in His right place in me and in all my concerns.
What we want is sin dethroned, Christ honoured and Christ glorified not only among the angels, not only among the saints who march around the steps of the throne, not only among those who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, and are singing the song of Moses and the Lamb, but down here in the city, in your home, in your workshop, in your business - rightness, righteousness in your yard measure, righteousness in your weights and scales, righteousness in your ledger; to handle your ledger with as much religious feeling and fervour as you take your seat in the pew on Sundays and handle the communion cup - this is what the gospel means.
I tell you this is a mighty, sweeping gospel. It is an unsparing gospel where sin is concerned. “He reasoned of righteousness, of temperance, and of judgment” - judgment, don’t forget it, judgment here and judgment yonder. Do not forget that “God hath appointed a day in which He will judge the world.” Do not forget that there is a great white throne, and that we will have to stand before it. Do not forget that we shall stand as we are and not as we seem to be, and that we will have to give an account of the deeds done in the body. And do not forget that it will not be a mock judgment, it will be a righteous judgment, that God will be the judge, and that He will render to every many according as his work shall be.
Oh, to have listened to this preacher, to have heard Paul as he waxed fiery, flaming as he talked of righteousness and of judgment! Oh, to have seen the flash in his eye, and the pointed finger and the erect figure as he shook and the chains rattled, while he lifted as high as he could that hand, pointing to the great white throne! Oh, to have seen him as he pealed out the truth upon that man like a mighty thunder-clap into his conscience and into his brain until he shook, until the seat shook on which he sat, until he clutched it and said,
“Hold! That will do, Paul. I know it is true, I have heard as much as I can carry, I have got as much as I can bear; that will do. Go back to the dungeon. It is not convenient. I know it all, I feel it all; I know what I ought to do. My soul, my conscience, my better self, my illuminated judgment, everything - God the Spirit, your word and your presence, and these clanking chains - tells me what I ought to be and what I ought to do, but it is not convenient. When it is convenient I will send for thee.”
Cannot you hear him marching down that corridor? Cannot you hear the rattle of those chains? And don’t you hear the slamming of the door that shuts the old saint up - glorious old Paul - in that dungeon for Christ’s sake?
Listen. The slamming of that door is but the echo of another door which closed itself forever against these two when Paul was ordered off. When he went their chance went with him. Oh, how different the story might have read! How blessedly it might have ended! How triumphantly it ought to have ended! But the man hugged his sins and would not yield.
Now why did not Felix become a Christian? He might have been an apostle, he might have been an evangelist, he might have written an epistle. It takes a saint to do that. He might have left a message which would have blessed the world, he might have left a decision that would have been an inspiration for all time. But he went the other way. He decided against Paul and Paul’s Christ.
And surely if any man in the world ever had a fair chance of salvation Felix had. With the world shut out and with that great soul-winner in front of him, with nobody to interrupt, nobody to come between, nobody but Paul and His Master facing him and the plan of salvation in front of him, and the heavens opening above him, and the light streaming down upon him and God speaking through His saint, surely no man ever had a better chance of life eternal than this man.
Surely, my brother, my sister, you cannot look in the face of God one day and say, “I should have been a Christian if I had an opportunity.” You cannot say that because you have this blessed hour in which to yield to God. If you never had a chance before you have one now, and if you never had anybody to talk to you about these things you have some one now. You cannot plead at the great white throne that you never had a chance. Felix cannot.
Surely no man ever had a better preacher than Paul, the prince of preachers. There was no trimming about Paul. There was no stooping to suit his people. He was not afraid of the man in the chariot and he did not despise the man in the gutter. Why, Paul, glorious old Paul, he said himself, “I determined to know nothing among you save Christ and Him crucified.” There was no mongrel gospel with Paul. There was no water and milk gospel with Paul. It was the pure, unadulterated, unchanging, living message.
Surely you cannot say when you get to the white throne, if you have not a wedding garment on, you cannot say, “Well, if I had only heard the pure gospel I should have been saved”? You cannot say that; you have had it from the pulpit, you have had it from the lips of your own ministers, you have heard it till you can go to sleep under it. You are hardened by the process of listening to it. For this mighty gospel, what it does not soften and weld, it hardens. It is the savour of life or of death. You know it, and you are familiar with it. You have had the gospel as faithfully as ever Paul preached it.
Surely this man might have been saved, for he was convicted. He felt more than he wanted to feel. He trembled, but, mark this - he trembled but the woman did not. That is striking.
I have often seen two people sit together under the same sermon, and I have seen one shake and tremble and weep beneath the power of God, and I have seen the other rebellious and hard and hindering; I have seen one want to come, and I have seen the other pull him back. When a woman does set herself against Christ, she does. I have not been an evangelist for a quarter of a century, without finding out that when a woman does come to Christ, she comes all the way.
I believe this man would have been saved, yea, I know he would, but for that woman. Felix trembled; she did not. He felt, he was convicted, he was awake, he knew, he was concerned, he was wrought upon.
Haven’t you been there? Is not your conscience, my sister, my brother, with me at this moment? Don’t you feel your sin; don’t you see something of its wickedness; don’t you realize something of its damning power; don’t you see how it is spoiling you, how it is robbing you of your manhood; don’t you see how your life is embittered; don’t you see how it is leading you away from God and rightness? Don’t you see it? I know you do. That is the Spirit at work within you. Your conscience and your judgment are bearing me witness.
Don’t you see that you can get as far as trembling conviction, and yet stop and refuse to take the decisive step? Why do you not yield? I want to push that question till I get an answer.
Why didn’t Felix surrender? If he heard the gospel from the lips of that faithful man and felt its awful import, if that stupendous opportunity was his in which he might have built a throne, why did he take the dungeon? If the hour was his in which he might have set an anthem ringing around the throne, why did he forge the chain? If the hour was his in which he might have decked the brow of Emmanuel, why, in the name of everything that is good, did he grovel in the dust and allow hell to drive over him its chariots and to grind him to powder? Why? Don’t you see the damning effects, the deluding effects, the destroying effects of sin?
The reason is given in one word - sin, his own sin. Beside him sat another man’s wife with whom he was living. Are you surprised that Paul talked of righteousness? How could he talk of anything else? Could God smile on that? He talked of righteousness. I should think so. And Felix knew if he became a Christian that woman must go home to her husband; at any rate, she must go from him. He knew that, and he looked at her, and in that look he lost his soul. He said, “No, it is not convenient. When it is I will call for thee.” But he never did, he never had another chance.
Samson lost his strength through a woman. The daughter of Herodias danced Herod into the pit. Drusilla was the chain that bound this man for time and for eternity. What is binding you? What is fettering you? What is getting you by the heart and life? What has gripped you in its clutch? What is it? You know. You know. Who is it? You know, and God knows. The truth will out some day.
The truth will out, for every man has some special sin. It may not be lust for a woman, but it may be lust for gold, it may be lust for drink, it may be appetite in another form, it may be ambition, which is just as damning. What is it?
Every woman has her own sin. It may not be lust for a man, but it is lust of some sort, and there are some women who will sell their souls and the souls of their children for dress and trinkets. May God save you.
Listen - it is a choice between sin and holiness. It is a tremendous choice, but there can be no two opinions about it, if you look at it wisely and well. It is a choice between the low and the high, the earthly and the heavenly, time and eternity, the perishable and the imperishable, the tinsel and the real gold, the passing moment and the heaven that awaits those who will only obey.
Men and women, sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty, rise to the occasion. Don’t mingle for yourselves the bitter drink, don’t fly in the face of your eternal interests. Don’t fight against God. Don’t hug your sin. Don’t play the fool - don’t. God wants to save you, and He will save you. He would have saved that man if he had come, but he did not, and because he did not God could not. “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” “How often would I have gathered you under My wing,…and ye would not.”
It is not God’s fault. If a man goes to hell - whatever hell may mean, I pray you may never find out, but whatever hell is - I do not know - but whatever it is, if a man goes there, it is because he will not accept God’s remedy. You cannot charge God with your destruction; you must charge it home to your own will in the choice of evil in your own wicked, rebellious God-dishonouring, God-hating, Christ-rejecting life; you must charge yourself.
I cannot hear my Lord libelled without protest. Some of you say, “Do you think God is a God of love, to send a man to hell?” God does not send him there; he sends himself. You don’t go to hell because you are a sinner, but because you refuse to walk over the bridge that God has built and made it possible for you to go the other way. You refuse God’s grace; you refuse the way of salvation.
God wants to save you from your sin, and he will save you now if you will submit. Will you give up your sin? You don’t want me to name your sin. If I did know it I would hold it before you till you loathed it; I would make you face it; I would hold it in front of you till you ran away from it; I would make you see your own sin, in spite of yourself, were it in my power till you yielded and gave yourself wholly to Jesus Christ.
My brother, my sister, let this be a time of real surrender, when you turn from the wicked thing, the thing that God hates in your life, the thing that has made you all you are, the thing that is destroying you day by day. Turn from that, and turn from it now, and you will hear Him say to you as you come, though your coming is faltering, though it is weak, if it is coming, if it is turning from sin, if it is yielding to God your heart, your life, all there is, with no reservation, the whole being, absolute, entire, if it is a real surrender, you will hear Him say, “Thy sins are forgiven thee”; and if your ears were a little keener, then you would hear the angels singing, “The dead is alive, and the lost is found.”
-Evangelist Gipsy Smith (sometimes spelled Gypsy Smith)
From the book - As Jesus Passed By and Other Addresses by Gipsy Smith, Seventeenth Edition, Fleming H. Revell Company, Chicago; 1905. (The only editing I’ve done is to break it up into more paragraphs for easier reading. -DRB)
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 29, AD 2016.
Bob Jones, Sr. on Wine, Alcohol, Christian Drinking
Pastors, Salaries, Parsonages - Christmas Evans
B. H. Carroll on Inspiration of Bible
John R. Rice and KJV Only
L. R. Scarborough on Soul-Winning
Random Advice to Pastors, Part 1
More articles in lower right margin.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Monday, March 21, 2016
Steve Gaines Nominated, SBC President
Steve Gaines, pastor of the historic Bellevue Baptist Church, Cordova, Tennessee, is to be nominated for president at this year’s annual Southern Baptist Convention. Johnny Hunt, past SBC president, has announced he will nominate Gaines.
Previously Bellevue pastors R. G. Lee, Ramsey Pollard, and Adrian Rogers have served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention. All have been conservative, evangelistic, effective preachers of God’s Word.
Steve Gaines was born in Corinth, Mississippi. His is married to Donna and they have four children. A graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div & Ph.D.), he has served as pastor in Alabama, Texas, Tennessee. The author of several books, including Share Jesus Like It Matters, Dr. Gaines has pastored Bellevue Baptist Church for eleven years.
Below is the Baptist Press article:
Steve Gaines to be SBC president nomineeby David Roach,
ST. LOUIS (BP) -- Tennessee pastor Steve Gaines will be nominated for president of the Southern Baptist Convention, Georgia pastor Johnny Hunt announced today (March 9).
"When Steve Gaines shared his prayer journey he and [his wife] Donna had traveled, I was touched by his clear call to allow himself to be nominated," Hunt, pastor of First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Georgia, wrote in a news release stating his intention to nominate Gaines during the SBC annual meeting June 14-15 in St. Louis.
"Steve struggled with this nomination as he has always believed this office should seek the man," Hunt continued. "With such a passionate desire for spiritual revival in our churches and nation, and knowing him to be a man of deep intense prayer, it brings joy to my heart to nominate Dr. Gaines."
During the 11 years Gaines has pastored the Memphis-area Bellevue Baptist Church in Cordova, Tenn., the congregation has averaged 481 baptisms per year, according to the SBC's Annual Church Profile. Previously, he pastored churches in Alabama, Tennessee and Texas.
Bellevue's finance committee is recommending that the congregation give $1 million during its 2016-17 church year through the Cooperative Program, Southern Baptists' unified channel for funding state- and SBC-level missions and ministries. That will total approximately 4.6 percent of undesignated receipts, the church told Baptist Press.
As of April 1, 2012, Bellevue began forwarding all its CP giving through the Tennessee Baptist Convention, the church said. Previously, it forwarded approximately $200,000-$340,000 annually in CP through the TBC, according to ACP data, and designated about twice that amount to be forwarded to the SBC Executive Committee for distribution according to the CP allocation formula, the church said.
The shift in giving methods resulted in an increase from giving 1.3 percent of undesignated receipts through CP in 2011 to 2.6 percent in 2012, according to ACP reports. Bellevue increased that percentage to 3.5 in 2013 and 3.8 in 2014. Between 2011 and 2016, the church has increased its CP giving by 278 percent, according to BP's calculations.
The church's Great Commission Giving totaled approximately $2.5 million over the past two years and is anticipated to be $1.3 million (6 percent of undesignated receipts) for the congregation's 2016-17 church year, which begins April 1, Hunt said. Great Commission Giving is a category of giving established by SBC action in 2011 that encompasses giving through CP as well as direct gifts to SBC entities, associational giving and giving to state convention ministries.
Hunt said Bellevue has collaborated with the International Mission Board to lead evangelism training in 34 countries since 2007 and "at the request of the IMB ... has been a strategy church for Jinotega, Nicaragua, since 2007." The church also reported a $150,000 gift to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions last year and anticipated an equal gift for 2016.
Bellevue is partnering with the North American Mission Board to plant churches in the Northwest and has planted 10 churches in other areas, including work with Native Americans in three locations, Hunt said.
Total missions giving for next year is anticipated at 18 percent of Bellevue's undesignated receipts, the church reported, and includes the "Bellevue Loves Memphis" initiative, a service evangelism campaign launched by Gaines in 2007.
Through Bellevue Loves Memphis, Hunt wrote, "the church has demonstrated love for their city through meeting practical needs as a platform from which to share the Gospel. Thus far, they have held 33 workdays. Their volunteers numbering 30,000 have served 106,505 'man hours' on 945 projects resulting in 510 professions of faith."
Gaines has served as a member of the SBC Committee on Nominations, a trustee of LifeWay Christian Resources, a member of the committee that proposed a revision of the Baptist Faith and Message in 2000 and chairman of the SBC Resolutions Committee. He preached the SBC convention sermon in 2004 and served as SBC Pastors' Conference president in 2005.
Gaines told BP, "I would like to continue [current SBC president] Dr. [Ronnie] Floyd's emphasis on seeking God for a spiritual awakening and revival. ... I've been praying for an awakening for a long time, and that's really my heart. I want the manifest presence of God in our churches and also in our denomination.
"... I also believe that we've got a real problem with our baptisms," Gaines said. "We need to get back to personal evangelism and soul winning."
Gaines' presidential nomination is the second to be announced for the SBC annual meeting. North Carolina pastor J.D. Greear's nomination was announced March 2.
Gaines is married to Donna and has four children and nine grandchildren. He holds master of divinity and doctor of philosophy degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
The BP article:
http://bpnews.net/46461/steve-gaines-to-be-sbc-president-nominee
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 21, AD 2016.
Robert G. Lee On Calvinism
Adrian Rogers on "Wit & Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow"
Adrian Rogers on Alcohol, Drinking, Wine
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Other articles in lower right margin.
Previously Bellevue pastors R. G. Lee, Ramsey Pollard, and Adrian Rogers have served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention. All have been conservative, evangelistic, effective preachers of God’s Word.
Steve Gaines was born in Corinth, Mississippi. His is married to Donna and they have four children. A graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div & Ph.D.), he has served as pastor in Alabama, Texas, Tennessee. The author of several books, including Share Jesus Like It Matters, Dr. Gaines has pastored Bellevue Baptist Church for eleven years.
Below is the Baptist Press article:
Steve Gaines to be SBC president nomineeby David Roach,
ST. LOUIS (BP) -- Tennessee pastor Steve Gaines will be nominated for president of the Southern Baptist Convention, Georgia pastor Johnny Hunt announced today (March 9).
"When Steve Gaines shared his prayer journey he and [his wife] Donna had traveled, I was touched by his clear call to allow himself to be nominated," Hunt, pastor of First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Georgia, wrote in a news release stating his intention to nominate Gaines during the SBC annual meeting June 14-15 in St. Louis.
"Steve struggled with this nomination as he has always believed this office should seek the man," Hunt continued. "With such a passionate desire for spiritual revival in our churches and nation, and knowing him to be a man of deep intense prayer, it brings joy to my heart to nominate Dr. Gaines."
During the 11 years Gaines has pastored the Memphis-area Bellevue Baptist Church in Cordova, Tenn., the congregation has averaged 481 baptisms per year, according to the SBC's Annual Church Profile. Previously, he pastored churches in Alabama, Tennessee and Texas.
Bellevue's finance committee is recommending that the congregation give $1 million during its 2016-17 church year through the Cooperative Program, Southern Baptists' unified channel for funding state- and SBC-level missions and ministries. That will total approximately 4.6 percent of undesignated receipts, the church told Baptist Press.
As of April 1, 2012, Bellevue began forwarding all its CP giving through the Tennessee Baptist Convention, the church said. Previously, it forwarded approximately $200,000-$340,000 annually in CP through the TBC, according to ACP data, and designated about twice that amount to be forwarded to the SBC Executive Committee for distribution according to the CP allocation formula, the church said.
The shift in giving methods resulted in an increase from giving 1.3 percent of undesignated receipts through CP in 2011 to 2.6 percent in 2012, according to ACP reports. Bellevue increased that percentage to 3.5 in 2013 and 3.8 in 2014. Between 2011 and 2016, the church has increased its CP giving by 278 percent, according to BP's calculations.
The church's Great Commission Giving totaled approximately $2.5 million over the past two years and is anticipated to be $1.3 million (6 percent of undesignated receipts) for the congregation's 2016-17 church year, which begins April 1, Hunt said. Great Commission Giving is a category of giving established by SBC action in 2011 that encompasses giving through CP as well as direct gifts to SBC entities, associational giving and giving to state convention ministries.
Hunt said Bellevue has collaborated with the International Mission Board to lead evangelism training in 34 countries since 2007 and "at the request of the IMB ... has been a strategy church for Jinotega, Nicaragua, since 2007." The church also reported a $150,000 gift to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions last year and anticipated an equal gift for 2016.
Bellevue is partnering with the North American Mission Board to plant churches in the Northwest and has planted 10 churches in other areas, including work with Native Americans in three locations, Hunt said.
Total missions giving for next year is anticipated at 18 percent of Bellevue's undesignated receipts, the church reported, and includes the "Bellevue Loves Memphis" initiative, a service evangelism campaign launched by Gaines in 2007.
Through Bellevue Loves Memphis, Hunt wrote, "the church has demonstrated love for their city through meeting practical needs as a platform from which to share the Gospel. Thus far, they have held 33 workdays. Their volunteers numbering 30,000 have served 106,505 'man hours' on 945 projects resulting in 510 professions of faith."
Gaines has served as a member of the SBC Committee on Nominations, a trustee of LifeWay Christian Resources, a member of the committee that proposed a revision of the Baptist Faith and Message in 2000 and chairman of the SBC Resolutions Committee. He preached the SBC convention sermon in 2004 and served as SBC Pastors' Conference president in 2005.
Gaines told BP, "I would like to continue [current SBC president] Dr. [Ronnie] Floyd's emphasis on seeking God for a spiritual awakening and revival. ... I've been praying for an awakening for a long time, and that's really my heart. I want the manifest presence of God in our churches and also in our denomination.
"... I also believe that we've got a real problem with our baptisms," Gaines said. "We need to get back to personal evangelism and soul winning."
Gaines' presidential nomination is the second to be announced for the SBC annual meeting. North Carolina pastor J.D. Greear's nomination was announced March 2.
Gaines is married to Donna and has four children and nine grandchildren. He holds master of divinity and doctor of philosophy degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
The BP article:
http://bpnews.net/46461/steve-gaines-to-be-sbc-president-nominee
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, March 21, AD 2016.
Robert G. Lee On Calvinism
Adrian Rogers on "Wit & Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow"
Adrian Rogers on Alcohol, Drinking, Wine
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Other articles in lower right margin.
Monday, February 29, 2016
Adrian Rogers on Alcohol, Drinking, Wine
Adrian Rogers (AD 1931-2005) was the well-known pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church, Cordova, Tennessee. He was three times elected president of the Southern Baptist Convention and was a leader in the SBC Conservative Resurgence. His radio, TV, book ministry has reached around the world and continues today. He is one of the best for young, and not so young preachers, to learn from today. Get his books and listen to his sermons.
What did Adrian Rogers believe about alcohol, drinking, wine?
Some of his quotes are below.
“The most dangerous drug in America is beverage alcohol. Number one because of it’s acceptance. Number two, because of it’s availability. Number three, because of the effect that it has upon our hearts and our lives and the misery that it brings.”
“The Bible uses the word wine in two difference senses. The word wine may mean that which may intoxicate you, or it may mean that which may not intoxicate you. The word wine in the Bible may refer to that which is fermented, or that which is not fermented; that which has alcoholic content or that which does not have alcoholic content.”
“God says not to look on it, but to the contrary, we are to shun it when it is fermented (Proverbs 23:31).”
“When a bunch of grapes are hanging on the vine, it’s called wine (Isaiah 65:8).”
“They knew how to check the fermentation of grape juice.”
On the Old Testament Hebrew word for wine, “Yayin may mean that which intoxicates, or that which does not intoxicate (Isaiah 16:10; Proverbs 20:1).”
“The word yayin is a generic word.”
“You are going to have to find out from the context, where the Bible says wine, whether it means that which is intoxicating or whether it isn’t.”
On the New Testament Greek word for wine, oinos. “That too may mean that which is intoxicating or that which is not intoxicating.”
“When you read the word wine in the New Testament, you can only know by the context whether or not it means that which can make you drunk. It does not always mean that which will make you drunk. It frequently means that which is not intoxicating.”
“Did Jesus turn water into wine? Jesus turned water into oinos. Is that the kind of drink that would make a person drunk? Of course not!”
“Do you think Jesus had anything to do with making people drunk? If you do, you don’t know the Jesus that I know.”
“Didn’t Jesus serve wine at the Lord’s Supper? No!”
“Time magazine said alcohol is involved in one half of all murders.”
“Have you ever stopped to think what the word intoxicated means? It means you have toxins put in.”
“When a man is intoxicated he has poisoned himself.”
“Liquor and immorality go together.”
“Liquor removes the inhibitions.”
“Moderation is not the answer to the liquor problem, in most cases it’s the cause of it.”
“It is the moderate drinker that encourages other people to drink.”
“You may be very surprised at who you may hurt with your ability to hold your liquor.”
“The position of a man, woman, boy or girl ought to be total abstinence.”
“If you don’t drink, don’t start!”
“These Scriptures (Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35) tell us, I believe plainly and clearly, that the Christian’s position, so far as beverage alcohol is concerned, is total abstinence.” -Adrian Rogers (AD 1931-2005), pastor, author, SBC president. lwf.org
These quotes come from Adrian P. Rogers sermon, The Battle of the Bottle, parts 1&2; Messages 1015 & 1016. Available at:
Love Worth Finding Ministries
P.O. Box 38300, Memphis, TN 38183
901/382-7900
lwf.org
Learn more and get more information on this biblical view of alcohol from the book:
Ancient Wine and the Bible: The Case for Abstinence
In this book Adrian Rogers and many others are quoted. You will also find a wealth of reference material and illustrations.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 29, AD 2016.
Note: Observe Substance Abuse Sunday, March 20, 2016.
More articles:
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
The Problem With Drunk Preachers
Problem Drinking Outside The USA
Deuteronomy 14:26 - Does it Commend Alcohol?
Adrian Rogers on "Wit & Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow"
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Why We Don't Use Alcohol For The Lord's Supper
Why Marijuana Should Remain Illegal
Ancient Wine Production and the Bible
Many more articles in lower right margin.
What did Adrian Rogers believe about alcohol, drinking, wine?
Some of his quotes are below.
“The most dangerous drug in America is beverage alcohol. Number one because of it’s acceptance. Number two, because of it’s availability. Number three, because of the effect that it has upon our hearts and our lives and the misery that it brings.”
“The Bible uses the word wine in two difference senses. The word wine may mean that which may intoxicate you, or it may mean that which may not intoxicate you. The word wine in the Bible may refer to that which is fermented, or that which is not fermented; that which has alcoholic content or that which does not have alcoholic content.”
“God says not to look on it, but to the contrary, we are to shun it when it is fermented (Proverbs 23:31).”
“When a bunch of grapes are hanging on the vine, it’s called wine (Isaiah 65:8).”
“They knew how to check the fermentation of grape juice.”
On the Old Testament Hebrew word for wine, “Yayin may mean that which intoxicates, or that which does not intoxicate (Isaiah 16:10; Proverbs 20:1).”
“The word yayin is a generic word.”
“You are going to have to find out from the context, where the Bible says wine, whether it means that which is intoxicating or whether it isn’t.”
On the New Testament Greek word for wine, oinos. “That too may mean that which is intoxicating or that which is not intoxicating.”
“When you read the word wine in the New Testament, you can only know by the context whether or not it means that which can make you drunk. It does not always mean that which will make you drunk. It frequently means that which is not intoxicating.”
“Did Jesus turn water into wine? Jesus turned water into oinos. Is that the kind of drink that would make a person drunk? Of course not!”
“Do you think Jesus had anything to do with making people drunk? If you do, you don’t know the Jesus that I know.”
“Didn’t Jesus serve wine at the Lord’s Supper? No!”
“Time magazine said alcohol is involved in one half of all murders.”
“Have you ever stopped to think what the word intoxicated means? It means you have toxins put in.”
“When a man is intoxicated he has poisoned himself.”
“Liquor and immorality go together.”
“Liquor removes the inhibitions.”
“Moderation is not the answer to the liquor problem, in most cases it’s the cause of it.”
“It is the moderate drinker that encourages other people to drink.”
“You may be very surprised at who you may hurt with your ability to hold your liquor.”
“The position of a man, woman, boy or girl ought to be total abstinence.”
“If you don’t drink, don’t start!”
“These Scriptures (Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35) tell us, I believe plainly and clearly, that the Christian’s position, so far as beverage alcohol is concerned, is total abstinence.” -Adrian Rogers (AD 1931-2005), pastor, author, SBC president. lwf.org
These quotes come from Adrian P. Rogers sermon, The Battle of the Bottle, parts 1&2; Messages 1015 & 1016. Available at:
Love Worth Finding Ministries
P.O. Box 38300, Memphis, TN 38183
901/382-7900
lwf.org
Learn more and get more information on this biblical view of alcohol from the book:
Ancient Wine and the Bible: The Case for Abstinence
In this book Adrian Rogers and many others are quoted. You will also find a wealth of reference material and illustrations.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 29, AD 2016.
Note: Observe Substance Abuse Sunday, March 20, 2016.
More articles:
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
The Problem With Drunk Preachers
Problem Drinking Outside The USA
Deuteronomy 14:26 - Does it Commend Alcohol?
Adrian Rogers on "Wit & Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow"
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Why We Don't Use Alcohol For The Lord's Supper
Why Marijuana Should Remain Illegal
Ancient Wine Production and the Bible
Many more articles in lower right margin.
Monday, February 22, 2016
Charles Ryrie: Christian Scholar, Author, Southern Baptist
Charles C. Ryrie (AD 1925-2016) lived to be four score and ten, was an outstanding Bible scholar, teacher, author, Southern Baptist. He taught for years at Dallas Theological Seminary and authored some 50 books. Multiplied thousands of preachers and Bible students are in his debt. Dr. Ryrie was an active member of First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas and good friend of pastors W. A. Criswell, O. S. Hawkins, Mac Brunson, Robert Jeffress.
He is perhaps best known for his Ryrie Study Bible, Basic Theology, and as a spokesman for Premillennialism (or Dispensationalism). Every pastor should have the Ryrie Study Bible as a reference.
On one of my fairly recent visits to SWBTS, Paige Patterson announced Charles Ryrie would be speaking in an upcoming chapel service. Wish I could have been there.
"If ever there lived a man whose life was immersed in the Bible it was Charles Ryrie. This is evident not only in the legacy he left in the Ryrie Study Bible, his amazing collection of rare and antique Bibles and books, but his passion to never stop studying even into his ninth decade of life.” -O. S. Hawkins, GuideStone.
Read more at:
Study Bible scholar Charles Ryrie dies
http://bpnews.net/46335/study-bible-scholar-charles-ryrie-dies
Farewell Faithful Solider: A Tribute to Dr. Charles C. Ryrie
http://sbctoday.com/farewell-faithful-solider-a-tribute-to-dr-charles-c-ryrie/
“The Bible is the greatest of all books, to study it is the noblest of all pursuits, to understand it, the highest of all goals.” -Charles Ryrie
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 22, AD 2016.
Commentaries and Bible Study
Deuteronomy 14:26 - Does it Commend Alcohol?
Basic Baptist Doctrines / Beliefs
More articles in lower right margin.
He is perhaps best known for his Ryrie Study Bible, Basic Theology, and as a spokesman for Premillennialism (or Dispensationalism). Every pastor should have the Ryrie Study Bible as a reference.
On one of my fairly recent visits to SWBTS, Paige Patterson announced Charles Ryrie would be speaking in an upcoming chapel service. Wish I could have been there.
"If ever there lived a man whose life was immersed in the Bible it was Charles Ryrie. This is evident not only in the legacy he left in the Ryrie Study Bible, his amazing collection of rare and antique Bibles and books, but his passion to never stop studying even into his ninth decade of life.” -O. S. Hawkins, GuideStone.
Read more at:
Study Bible scholar Charles Ryrie dies
http://bpnews.net/46335/study-bible-scholar-charles-ryrie-dies
Farewell Faithful Solider: A Tribute to Dr. Charles C. Ryrie
http://sbctoday.com/farewell-faithful-solider-a-tribute-to-dr-charles-c-ryrie/
“The Bible is the greatest of all books, to study it is the noblest of all pursuits, to understand it, the highest of all goals.” -Charles Ryrie
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 22, AD 2016.
Commentaries and Bible Study
Deuteronomy 14:26 - Does it Commend Alcohol?
Basic Baptist Doctrines / Beliefs
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, February 8, 2016
Christian Apologetics: A Reasoned Defense of Christianity
Has your Christian faith been challenged in the classroom, by the media, or by friends?
Have you heard the Bible ridiculed?
Seen Evangelical Christians accused of hate and bigotry?
Need answers to the tough questions about the reliability of the Bible and about Christianity?
You can find the answers in these books:
Christianity on Trial, by Mark Lanier, a successful trial lawyer.
I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist, by Norman Geisler & Frank Turek.
Evidence that Demands a Verdict, by Josh McDowell. Josh is a former atheist and has spoken at numerous universities.
Don’t Check Your Brains at the Door, by Josh McDowell & Bob Hostetler. Short chapters designed for students. Good for teenagers through adults.
The Case For Christ, by Lee Strobel, a former atheist.
In Defense of the Bible, edited by Cowan & Wilder, B&H.
Who Made God?, by Norman Geisler & Ravi Zacharias.
Apologetics Study Bible, by Holman Publishers.
Read the Bible itself to find out what it really teaches.
Good translations: NKJV; KJV; NASB; HCSB…
Read these books and you will find the Bible and Christianity stand up well to skeptics and tough questions. Believers in Jesus Christ need not fear the false accusations against their faith.
Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. -1 Peter 3:15
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 8, AD 2016.
Articles:
Valentines Day - The Bible on Love
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
Brief History of SBC Conservative Resurgence
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Small Texas Church Takes on a God-Sized Goal
More articles in lower right margin.
Have you heard the Bible ridiculed?
Seen Evangelical Christians accused of hate and bigotry?
Need answers to the tough questions about the reliability of the Bible and about Christianity?
You can find the answers in these books:
Christianity on Trial, by Mark Lanier, a successful trial lawyer.
I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist, by Norman Geisler & Frank Turek.
Evidence that Demands a Verdict, by Josh McDowell. Josh is a former atheist and has spoken at numerous universities.
Don’t Check Your Brains at the Door, by Josh McDowell & Bob Hostetler. Short chapters designed for students. Good for teenagers through adults.
The Case For Christ, by Lee Strobel, a former atheist.
In Defense of the Bible, edited by Cowan & Wilder, B&H.
Who Made God?, by Norman Geisler & Ravi Zacharias.
Apologetics Study Bible, by Holman Publishers.
Read the Bible itself to find out what it really teaches.
Good translations: NKJV; KJV; NASB; HCSB…
Read these books and you will find the Bible and Christianity stand up well to skeptics and tough questions. Believers in Jesus Christ need not fear the false accusations against their faith.
Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. -1 Peter 3:15
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, February 8, AD 2016.
Articles:
Valentines Day - The Bible on Love
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
Brief History of SBC Conservative Resurgence
Adrian Rogers on Predestination, Calvinism
Small Texas Church Takes on a God-Sized Goal
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, January 25, 2016
Bilingual Bible And Other Christian Books
We have a new Spanish language Sunday School class meeting at our church. While we are an English speaking church, we have some attending our church who are bilingual, and some who only speak Spanish.
If you want to learn Spanish, or at least a few Spanish words -
If you want to learn English, at least a little -
What better way to learn either language than with the Bible and Christian literature? Books that have both Spanish and English side by side.
I went to a LifeWay Store a time or two and spent some time on their Spanish language aisles. I wanted to get a few supplemental books for the Spanish Bible Class. Among other things I found the following.
Bilingual Bible, Version Reina-Valera 1960, New King James Version, Thomas Nelson Publishers. On the same page one column is Spanish, the other column is English.
Down Through the Roof; Jesus sana a un Paralitico. Arch Books. The Bible story of the man being lowered down through the roof.
The Berenstain Bears; Los Osos Berenstain, Dios te ama!; God Loves You!, Living Lights.
Each of the above has other children’s bilingual books in these series.
There are also a number of Spanish language books by popular Christian writers.
I ordered the following books at LifeWay.
They are by Dr. Daniel Sanchez, professor at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
La Doctrina del Fin: La historia que cede el paso al orden eterno.
Evangelio en el Rosario: Estudio Biblico de lost Misterios ed Cristo.
Dr. Sanchez has authored other books as well, in both Spanish and English.
LifeWay also has Sunday School Literature in Spanish. Our class is using, Estudios Biblicos Para La Vida.
Years ago a lady from Portugal began attending our church. I did some checking and ordered a Portuguese language Bible from a Bible Society. She had never seen a Portuguese Bible. Even though she spoke English, she was thrilled to see, as well as read, the Bible in her own native language.
Just today a bilingual lady was looking through some of these new books mentioned above. She said she had no idea they were available and thought they would be helpful to her and some in her family. She borrowed two of them.
So, just a reminder that you can get the Bible and other Christian literature in most any language today. It can also be an effective way to witness to a friend.
Check out bilingual Christian literature at LifeWay Christian Stores, and other Christian Bookstores in your area. If they don’t have it, they can order it.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 25, AD 2016.
Articles:
Adrian Rogers on "Wit & Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow"
Lord's Supper, Questions & Answers
Israel, May They Prosper Who Love You
More articles in lower right margin.
If you want to learn Spanish, or at least a few Spanish words -
If you want to learn English, at least a little -
What better way to learn either language than with the Bible and Christian literature? Books that have both Spanish and English side by side.
I went to a LifeWay Store a time or two and spent some time on their Spanish language aisles. I wanted to get a few supplemental books for the Spanish Bible Class. Among other things I found the following.
Bilingual Bible, Version Reina-Valera 1960, New King James Version, Thomas Nelson Publishers. On the same page one column is Spanish, the other column is English.
Down Through the Roof; Jesus sana a un Paralitico. Arch Books. The Bible story of the man being lowered down through the roof.
The Berenstain Bears; Los Osos Berenstain, Dios te ama!; God Loves You!, Living Lights.
Each of the above has other children’s bilingual books in these series.
There are also a number of Spanish language books by popular Christian writers.
I ordered the following books at LifeWay.
They are by Dr. Daniel Sanchez, professor at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
La Doctrina del Fin: La historia que cede el paso al orden eterno.
Evangelio en el Rosario: Estudio Biblico de lost Misterios ed Cristo.
Dr. Sanchez has authored other books as well, in both Spanish and English.
LifeWay also has Sunday School Literature in Spanish. Our class is using, Estudios Biblicos Para La Vida.
Years ago a lady from Portugal began attending our church. I did some checking and ordered a Portuguese language Bible from a Bible Society. She had never seen a Portuguese Bible. Even though she spoke English, she was thrilled to see, as well as read, the Bible in her own native language.
Just today a bilingual lady was looking through some of these new books mentioned above. She said she had no idea they were available and thought they would be helpful to her and some in her family. She borrowed two of them.
So, just a reminder that you can get the Bible and other Christian literature in most any language today. It can also be an effective way to witness to a friend.
Check out bilingual Christian literature at LifeWay Christian Stores, and other Christian Bookstores in your area. If they don’t have it, they can order it.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 25, AD 2016.
Articles:
Adrian Rogers on "Wit & Wisdom of Pastor Joe Brumbelow"
Lord's Supper, Questions & Answers
Israel, May They Prosper Who Love You
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, January 18, 2016
Must A Preacher Know Greek And Hebrew?
Should a pastor, or any believer for that matter, study and be fluent in Greek and Hebrew, to really be able to study, understand, and teach the Bible?
Our Bible, God’s inspired, inerrant Word, originally was mostly written in Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament).
An English translation of the Bible is translated from Hebrew and Greek into our English language. Obviously the translators need to be Bible scholars fluent in the original biblical languages as well as English.
Clearly a knowledge of Greek and Hebrew would be a plus to anyone studying and teaching the Bible. It can open up new areas of fuller understanding. If you have the time and ability, by all means learn the biblical languages.
There are some areas where you will only be effective and respected if you have at least a basic knowledge of these languages. On the other hand, if you don’t know the languages, if it is a crucial point, you can rely on and quote those who do know Greek.
English translations are produced by some of the top scholars in Hebrew, Greek, and English. Therefore, when we study a good English translation, we are enjoying the fruit of their scholarly labor. We get much of the benefits of the original languages through their research and translation. Can they get it wrong? Yes. That is a good reason to sometimes consult a second or third English translation. We are privileged with the luxury of having multiple good English translations: KJV, NKJV (my favorite), NASB, HCSB, and others.
Just because you know Greek doesn’t mean you automatically have the corner on proper Bible interpretation. Even once you know exactly what a Bible verse says in Greek, there can still be more than one view. And, a Greek scholar can still be flat out wrong on a biblical issue. So, don’t be bullied by someone just because they know more Greek than you. Also, you can often find a Greek scholar that disagrees with the Greek scholar trying to bully you.
If you are fluent in biblical languages, don’t use it to excess in your preaching and teaching. Frankly, some preachers seem to want to show off their knowledge of Greek.
Unless it is a point that really makes a difference, most laymen are not too interested in how well you know Greek. Some get weary of hearing the Greek word of every word in a verse.
There is an old story of a pastor search committee who included two requirements for their next pastor. That he not know Greek and that he had never been to the Holy Land. A previous pastor had done both and talked of them excessively.
Greek and Hebrew word studies at times are interesting and instructive. But sometimes they can skew the truth. We do not necessarily consider the ancient root meaning of a particular word, every time we use that word. Maybe the biblical writers did not either.
For example, the origin of the English word “enthusiastic” comes from an ancient Greek word meaning “possessed by a god.” But when a preacher says we should be enthusiastic about a church program, I doubt he is saying we should be possessed by a pagan god. Rather, he is just using the common understanding of the word. He simply means we should “be excited” about the church program.
Often when you find out what a Bible verse says in Greek, you find it is the same thing as what your Bible translation said in English all along. And, that is the very purpose of a translation.
I’ve sometimes asked, do you know what John 3:16 says in Greek?” They usually get excited they are about to discover some new truth. I then answer, it says, “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.” Yes, that’s the jist of it in Greek!
You can do a competent study of Greek and Hebrew, even if you do not know the languages. Great Bible study books abound such as, Vines Word Studies, Young’s and Strong’s Concordances, A. T. Roberson’s Word Pictures of the New Testament, Bible Dictionaries and Encyclopedias, Bible Commentaries, topical Bible study books.
Even a cursory knowledge of the biblical languages, though, can help you understand the differences in languages in general. Even a cursory knowledge of any second language can give you a better understanding of the original biblical languages, translation, transliteration.
Some preachers who know Greek are condescending toward those who don‘t know Greek. Yet, some of those same preachers who know Greek, do not know Hebrew, or only have a slight knowledge of it. Well, with that attitude, that preacher should never preach from the Old Testament until he is fluent in Hebrew.
A Greek scholar should never look down on a believer that does not know the biblical languages. Often, that humble believer may know more about a biblical passage than the scholar knows. And, the Greek scholar should show a healthy degree of humility. Perhaps we will all need a remedial course in Basic Bible when we reach Heaven’s shore.
I’ve always admired a Bible scholar who does not act like a scholar, and who can explain Bible truths so we all can understand.
Those who do not know the biblical languages should respect those who do. Theirs is a monumental accomplishment. Often they can reveal biblical truths of which others are unaware. Sometimes either side can keep us from doctrinal error.
I’ve sometimes wondered if a part of the spiritual gift of tongues is the ability some have to quickly and easily learn another human tongue or language. This would, of course, include Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek. The Apostle Paul would have known these languages and probably others and is likely to what he was referring (1 Corinthians 14:18) when he said “I speak with tongues (languages) more than you all.”
Some seem to just not have an aptitude for learning another language, yet they excel in other areas. Some will disagree, but you can be a very capable preacher and teacher of the Word of God without knowing much about Greek or Hebrew. It would not be difficult to name a long list of outstanding preachers, pastors, evangelists, missionaries who do not know Greek or Hebrew.
We would all be diminished if we had no Greek and Hebrew scholars. We would all be diminished if we got rid of all those ministers who are not fluent in the biblical languages.
Wherever you fit in the spectrum of biblical languages, may we all read, study, and hide God’s Word in our hearts. May we believe Holy Scripture, then put it into practice in our everyday lives.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 18, AD 2016.
Articles:
Random Advice to Pastors, Part 1
Commentaries and Bible Study
SCRIPTURE INDEX for Ancient Wine and the Bible
Other articles in lower right margin.
Our Bible, God’s inspired, inerrant Word, originally was mostly written in Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament).
An English translation of the Bible is translated from Hebrew and Greek into our English language. Obviously the translators need to be Bible scholars fluent in the original biblical languages as well as English.
Clearly a knowledge of Greek and Hebrew would be a plus to anyone studying and teaching the Bible. It can open up new areas of fuller understanding. If you have the time and ability, by all means learn the biblical languages.
There are some areas where you will only be effective and respected if you have at least a basic knowledge of these languages. On the other hand, if you don’t know the languages, if it is a crucial point, you can rely on and quote those who do know Greek.
English translations are produced by some of the top scholars in Hebrew, Greek, and English. Therefore, when we study a good English translation, we are enjoying the fruit of their scholarly labor. We get much of the benefits of the original languages through their research and translation. Can they get it wrong? Yes. That is a good reason to sometimes consult a second or third English translation. We are privileged with the luxury of having multiple good English translations: KJV, NKJV (my favorite), NASB, HCSB, and others.
Just because you know Greek doesn’t mean you automatically have the corner on proper Bible interpretation. Even once you know exactly what a Bible verse says in Greek, there can still be more than one view. And, a Greek scholar can still be flat out wrong on a biblical issue. So, don’t be bullied by someone just because they know more Greek than you. Also, you can often find a Greek scholar that disagrees with the Greek scholar trying to bully you.
If you are fluent in biblical languages, don’t use it to excess in your preaching and teaching. Frankly, some preachers seem to want to show off their knowledge of Greek.
Unless it is a point that really makes a difference, most laymen are not too interested in how well you know Greek. Some get weary of hearing the Greek word of every word in a verse.
There is an old story of a pastor search committee who included two requirements for their next pastor. That he not know Greek and that he had never been to the Holy Land. A previous pastor had done both and talked of them excessively.
Greek and Hebrew word studies at times are interesting and instructive. But sometimes they can skew the truth. We do not necessarily consider the ancient root meaning of a particular word, every time we use that word. Maybe the biblical writers did not either.
For example, the origin of the English word “enthusiastic” comes from an ancient Greek word meaning “possessed by a god.” But when a preacher says we should be enthusiastic about a church program, I doubt he is saying we should be possessed by a pagan god. Rather, he is just using the common understanding of the word. He simply means we should “be excited” about the church program.
Often when you find out what a Bible verse says in Greek, you find it is the same thing as what your Bible translation said in English all along. And, that is the very purpose of a translation.
I’ve sometimes asked, do you know what John 3:16 says in Greek?” They usually get excited they are about to discover some new truth. I then answer, it says, “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.” Yes, that’s the jist of it in Greek!
You can do a competent study of Greek and Hebrew, even if you do not know the languages. Great Bible study books abound such as, Vines Word Studies, Young’s and Strong’s Concordances, A. T. Roberson’s Word Pictures of the New Testament, Bible Dictionaries and Encyclopedias, Bible Commentaries, topical Bible study books.
Even a cursory knowledge of the biblical languages, though, can help you understand the differences in languages in general. Even a cursory knowledge of any second language can give you a better understanding of the original biblical languages, translation, transliteration.
Some preachers who know Greek are condescending toward those who don‘t know Greek. Yet, some of those same preachers who know Greek, do not know Hebrew, or only have a slight knowledge of it. Well, with that attitude, that preacher should never preach from the Old Testament until he is fluent in Hebrew.
A Greek scholar should never look down on a believer that does not know the biblical languages. Often, that humble believer may know more about a biblical passage than the scholar knows. And, the Greek scholar should show a healthy degree of humility. Perhaps we will all need a remedial course in Basic Bible when we reach Heaven’s shore.
I’ve always admired a Bible scholar who does not act like a scholar, and who can explain Bible truths so we all can understand.
Those who do not know the biblical languages should respect those who do. Theirs is a monumental accomplishment. Often they can reveal biblical truths of which others are unaware. Sometimes either side can keep us from doctrinal error.
I’ve sometimes wondered if a part of the spiritual gift of tongues is the ability some have to quickly and easily learn another human tongue or language. This would, of course, include Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek. The Apostle Paul would have known these languages and probably others and is likely to what he was referring (1 Corinthians 14:18) when he said “I speak with tongues (languages) more than you all.”
Some seem to just not have an aptitude for learning another language, yet they excel in other areas. Some will disagree, but you can be a very capable preacher and teacher of the Word of God without knowing much about Greek or Hebrew. It would not be difficult to name a long list of outstanding preachers, pastors, evangelists, missionaries who do not know Greek or Hebrew.
We would all be diminished if we had no Greek and Hebrew scholars. We would all be diminished if we got rid of all those ministers who are not fluent in the biblical languages.
Wherever you fit in the spectrum of biblical languages, may we all read, study, and hide God’s Word in our hearts. May we believe Holy Scripture, then put it into practice in our everyday lives.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, January 18, AD 2016.
Articles:
Random Advice to Pastors, Part 1
Commentaries and Bible Study
SCRIPTURE INDEX for Ancient Wine and the Bible
Other articles in lower right margin.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
One Solitary Life
He was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in still another village, where He worked in a carpenter shop until He was 30. Then for three years He was an itinerant preacher. He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never had a family or owned a house. He didn't go to college. He never traveled more than 200 miles from the place He was born. He did none of the things one usually associates with greatness.
He was only 33 when public opinion turned against Him. His friends deserted Him. He was turned over to His enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. When He was dying, His executioners gambled for His clothing, the only property He had on earth. When He was dead, He was laid in a borrowed grave through the kindness of a friend. He rose from the dead.
Twenty centuries have come and gone, and today He is the central figure of the human race, the leader of mankind's progress. All the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the parliaments that ever sat, all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man on earth as much as that One Solitary Life.
-adapted from Dr James Allan Francis in “The Real Jesus and Other Sermons,” Judson Press, Philadelphia; 1926.
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -Isaiah 9:6
And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. -Matthew 1:21
Merry Christmas!
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 17, AD 2015.
Articles:
Alcohol and the Holidays
That Night, A Christmas Poem
10 Commandments for Christmas
More articles in lower right margin.
He was only 33 when public opinion turned against Him. His friends deserted Him. He was turned over to His enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. When He was dying, His executioners gambled for His clothing, the only property He had on earth. When He was dead, He was laid in a borrowed grave through the kindness of a friend. He rose from the dead.
Twenty centuries have come and gone, and today He is the central figure of the human race, the leader of mankind's progress. All the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the parliaments that ever sat, all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man on earth as much as that One Solitary Life.
-adapted from Dr James Allan Francis in “The Real Jesus and Other Sermons,” Judson Press, Philadelphia; 1926.
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -Isaiah 9:6
And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. -Matthew 1:21
Merry Christmas!
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 17, AD 2015.
Articles:
Alcohol and the Holidays
That Night, A Christmas Poem
10 Commandments for Christmas
More articles in lower right margin.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Baptismal Regeneration; Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation? Part 2
Part of the confusion over Baptismal Regeneration is a failure to understand the meaning of baptism. Baptism is simply a picture of what happened to you when you believed in Jesus. In a sense, baptism is a funeral of who you used to be. When you go under the water it is a picture of dying to your old life of sin. When you are raised from the water it is a picture of you being resurrected to a new life in Christ. That is what happened to you when you trusted Jesus as your Savior. Baptism, of course, also pictures your belief that Jesus died for your sins and rose again, and your belief that our physical bodies will be raised at the resurrection.
What about the Bible passages that seem to teach Baptismal Regeneration? That seem to teach you must believe and be baptized to be saved?
First, do not neglect the multitude of clear passages that say if you believe in Jesus Christ you will be saved (see previous article, part 1).
Now, let’s look at those verses some claim teach Baptismal Regeneration.
1. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. -Mark 16:16
Notice first, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved.”
In New Testament times it was common that when one believed, if there was enough water, they would baptize them immediately. So belief and baptism often went together.
Now, back to, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved.”
That is true. It is also true that he who believes and joins a church will be saved. It is even true that if he believes and buys a pickup truck he will be saved.
Now notice the next phrase, “but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
It is very significant that it does not say if he believes and is not baptized he will be condemned; only, if he does not believe he will be condemned.
2. What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? -James 2:14
But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? -James 2:20
Someone may say, show me your faith. Well, God can see your faith, but others cannot. God can see your faith, but man can only see your faith by your works. If you truly believe, then good works will follow. If there are no good works, a man may have reason to doubt your faith.
Always remember as well, verses like Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 4:5; etc.
3. There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. -1 Peter 3:21 (NKJV)
Many Baptismal Regenerationists only quote a small portion of this verse, “baptism doth also now save us,” (KJV). That is a strong argument, until the entire verse is considered. One of the basic rules of properly interpreting the Bible (hermeneutics), is to study the word, or phrase, or verse in context; what comes before and after it.
This verse does not say baptism saves us or takes away our sins. It only says baptism is a type (or antitype, figure, symbol, picture) of our salvation. As mentioned previously, believer’s baptism by immersion is a picture of our salvation; a symbol of what happens to us when we trust Jesus as our Savior.
Notice also this verse says baptism is the answer of a good conscience toward God. In other words, we are commanded to be baptized. It is a good work. We are not saved by good works, we are saved by repentance and belief in Jesus. But after we believe, baptism gives us a good conscience because we are obeying and honoring God.
This verse even states baptism is, “not the removal of the filth of the flesh.” Rather than literally taking away our sins, baptism symbolically takes away our sins, a picture of what happened when we believed. Only Jesus can literally take away our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21).
4. Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” -John 3:5
Does born of water mean baptism? If it did, it would only mean so in a figurative way. However, it does not mean baptism. Every time you see the word water, that does not automatically refer to baptism.
There are a couple of explanations. First, some believe born of water refers to physical birth, a water birth. This view says you must be born both physically (physical birth, born of the flesh) and spiritually (new birth, spiritual birth, salvation).
This view says Jesus explains “born of water and the Spirit” in the very next verse:
That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. -John 3:6
Second, some believe born of water refers to the washing of the Word of God in salvation (John 3:5; Titus 3:5; 1 John 5:8).
Does the Word of God spiritually wash us? Yes.
That He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word. -Ephesians 5:26
How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
-Psalm 119:9
And one aspect of salvation is that we are born again through God’s Word.
Having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever. -1 Peter 1:23
It should also be remembered that Jesus summed up the new birth in this same chapter in John in the well known verse,
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. -John 3:16
No mention here of baptism being a part of salvation. Rather simply believe in Jesus and you will not perish but have everlasting life.
5. Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” -Acts 2:38
The word “for” (Greek - eis) in this verse can also mean “because.”
This verse could justly and easily be translated, “Let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ ‘because of’ the remission of sins.”
Do we ever use the word “for” in the sense of “because?” Yes we do.
For example,
“He was thrown in jail ‘for’ stealing a car.”
He was not thrown in jail ‘so he could’ steal a car, rather, he was thrown in jail ‘because’ he stole a car.
6. And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’ -Acts 22:16
Ananias was speaking in a figurative way of washing away sins.
Baptism is a picture, a symbol of salvation, but it is not salvation nor a part of salvation. That baptism is a picture or symbol of salvation is shown in 1 Peter 3:21; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12.
Notice before Paul (Saul) was baptized, but after he believed, Ananias called him, “Brother Saul” (Acts 22:13), thereby recognizing his salvation.
Notice also that Ananias, in speaking of washing away your sins included, “calling on the name of the Lord.”
Baptism is not a part of salvation, only a picture of salvation. Salvation is only in Jesus Christ, not in good works. In dealing with this issue, never forget or minimize the many clear Bible passages that teach salvation is only through personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
The song does not say,
Jesus paid a part,
Some to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
We washed it white as snow.
Rather,
“Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.”
-Elvina M. Hall, Baptist Hymnal, LifeWay; 2008.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 15, AD 2015.
Articles:
Baptismal Regeneration; Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation? Part 1
More Articles in lower right margin.
What about the Bible passages that seem to teach Baptismal Regeneration? That seem to teach you must believe and be baptized to be saved?
First, do not neglect the multitude of clear passages that say if you believe in Jesus Christ you will be saved (see previous article, part 1).
Now, let’s look at those verses some claim teach Baptismal Regeneration.
1. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. -Mark 16:16
Notice first, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved.”
In New Testament times it was common that when one believed, if there was enough water, they would baptize them immediately. So belief and baptism often went together.
Now, back to, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved.”
That is true. It is also true that he who believes and joins a church will be saved. It is even true that if he believes and buys a pickup truck he will be saved.
Now notice the next phrase, “but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
It is very significant that it does not say if he believes and is not baptized he will be condemned; only, if he does not believe he will be condemned.
2. What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? -James 2:14
But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? -James 2:20
Someone may say, show me your faith. Well, God can see your faith, but others cannot. God can see your faith, but man can only see your faith by your works. If you truly believe, then good works will follow. If there are no good works, a man may have reason to doubt your faith.
Always remember as well, verses like Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 4:5; etc.
3. There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. -1 Peter 3:21 (NKJV)
Many Baptismal Regenerationists only quote a small portion of this verse, “baptism doth also now save us,” (KJV). That is a strong argument, until the entire verse is considered. One of the basic rules of properly interpreting the Bible (hermeneutics), is to study the word, or phrase, or verse in context; what comes before and after it.
This verse does not say baptism saves us or takes away our sins. It only says baptism is a type (or antitype, figure, symbol, picture) of our salvation. As mentioned previously, believer’s baptism by immersion is a picture of our salvation; a symbol of what happens to us when we trust Jesus as our Savior.
Notice also this verse says baptism is the answer of a good conscience toward God. In other words, we are commanded to be baptized. It is a good work. We are not saved by good works, we are saved by repentance and belief in Jesus. But after we believe, baptism gives us a good conscience because we are obeying and honoring God.
This verse even states baptism is, “not the removal of the filth of the flesh.” Rather than literally taking away our sins, baptism symbolically takes away our sins, a picture of what happened when we believed. Only Jesus can literally take away our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21).
4. Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” -John 3:5
Does born of water mean baptism? If it did, it would only mean so in a figurative way. However, it does not mean baptism. Every time you see the word water, that does not automatically refer to baptism.
There are a couple of explanations. First, some believe born of water refers to physical birth, a water birth. This view says you must be born both physically (physical birth, born of the flesh) and spiritually (new birth, spiritual birth, salvation).
This view says Jesus explains “born of water and the Spirit” in the very next verse:
That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. -John 3:6
Second, some believe born of water refers to the washing of the Word of God in salvation (John 3:5; Titus 3:5; 1 John 5:8).
Does the Word of God spiritually wash us? Yes.
That He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word. -Ephesians 5:26
How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
-Psalm 119:9
And one aspect of salvation is that we are born again through God’s Word.
Having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever. -1 Peter 1:23
It should also be remembered that Jesus summed up the new birth in this same chapter in John in the well known verse,
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. -John 3:16
No mention here of baptism being a part of salvation. Rather simply believe in Jesus and you will not perish but have everlasting life.
5. Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” -Acts 2:38
The word “for” (Greek - eis) in this verse can also mean “because.”
This verse could justly and easily be translated, “Let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ ‘because of’ the remission of sins.”
Do we ever use the word “for” in the sense of “because?” Yes we do.
For example,
“He was thrown in jail ‘for’ stealing a car.”
He was not thrown in jail ‘so he could’ steal a car, rather, he was thrown in jail ‘because’ he stole a car.
Note: Compare Acts
2:38 with what Peter said in Acts 2:21; Acts 3:19; Acts 10:43; 1 Peter 1:9; 1 Peter
2:6. Also, compare with the many verses
mentioned in part 1 of this article.
Ananias was speaking in a figurative way of washing away sins.
Baptism is a picture, a symbol of salvation, but it is not salvation nor a part of salvation. That baptism is a picture or symbol of salvation is shown in 1 Peter 3:21; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12.
Notice before Paul (Saul) was baptized, but after he believed, Ananias called him, “Brother Saul” (Acts 22:13), thereby recognizing his salvation.
Notice also that Ananias, in speaking of washing away your sins included, “calling on the name of the Lord.”
Baptism is not a part of salvation, only a picture of salvation. Salvation is only in Jesus Christ, not in good works. In dealing with this issue, never forget or minimize the many clear Bible passages that teach salvation is only through personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
The song does not say,
Jesus paid a part,
Some to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
We washed it white as snow.
Rather,
“Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.”
-Elvina M. Hall, Baptist Hymnal, LifeWay; 2008.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, December 15, AD 2015.
Articles:
Baptismal Regeneration; Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation? Part 1
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Small Texas Church Takes on a God-Sized Goal
Pastor Mark Brumbelow and his wife Cherry pray over Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes during a service at Grace Baptist Church of Wild Peach in Brazoria, Texas.
Brazoria, Texas, United States
November 10, 2015
Along the Gulf Coast sits Brazoria County, proclaimed by the local newspaper to be “Where Texas Began.” It is home to the first capital of the Republic of Texas, as well as the Brazos River which early Spanish explorers named “The River of the Arms of God.” Just five miles from that river and 60 miles south of Houston, the village of Wild Peach experienced God’s embrace the last weekend in October.
As rains from the remains of Hurricane Patricia hammered the area, a tornado headed straight for Wild Peach—including its one convenience store, an elementary school, three churches, and numerous homes. The storm was averted, though, and some believe that was in part due to what happened in Grace Baptist Church earlier that day.
This congregation of 25, whose pastor is also a taxidermist, set out Saturday morning to finish their year-long goal of packing 2,000 Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts. With just 270 shoeboxes to go, they planned to continue packing boxes as long as they had gifts left to fill them.
Church members and friends, both old and young, made their way around tables piled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items to pack shoeboxes with gifts for children in need around the world. As Charlie Meazles, a Marine veteran of the Korean War, packed a box for a two- to four-year-old boy, he said, “I do it for the kids everywhere. I hope they come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.”
Within hours, they had officially completed 2,118 gifts. Pastor Mark Brumbelow said, “This is not something Grace Baptist has done. This is something the God of Heaven allowed us to be a part of.”
Trusting God to Fill Them
Mark and his wife Cherry packed their first shoebox gift 13 years ago. For the first 10 years or so, they would pack three—one in honor of each of their boys—and their church as a whole would pack anywhere from seven to 20. “We were proud of that,” Mark said, “and I’m still proud of that. It was good. It was right.”
In 2013, though, they packed 43 boxes and Mark said, “I was just ecstatic!”
That year they drove more than four hours to an ice-covered Dallas to volunteer at the Operation Christmas Child Processing Center.
“If I’d have known how icy the roads were in Dallas, I never would have gone,” Mark said. But there as they inspected shoeboxes and prepared them for international shipping, they learned about the opportunity to volunteer with the project year-round. Discovering that the Gulf Coast didn’t have many volunteers, Cherry signed up and soon became the community relations coordinator for three counties.
Driving home from Dallas, Cherry suggested that they do 500 boxes in 2014.
Mark thought, “That’d be nice!” But he prayed, “Lord, we can’t do that. That’s impossible! But if you want us to do it, we’ll do the best we can, and get as far as we can in that direction. I just think you’re asking too much of us.”
The next Sunday, Mark preached on 2 Kings 4 where Elisha tells the widow who had no money left to borrow jars from her neighbors so he could fill them with oil. During the sermon it hit Cherry that it was the widow’s job to get the containers and God’s job to fill them.
Sensing she just needed to get 500 shoeboxes and trust God for the contents, Cherry went to a nearby store on Monday morning to see if she could get shoeboxes. They gave her some, and she repeated the trip every week until she had 500 boxes.
The church was skeptical of the new goal, but they gave it their best effort and ended up packing 532 shoeboxes!
That was only part of the challenge, though. Samaritan’s Purse requests that a $7 donation accompany every shoebox gift to cover the cost of shipping. Throughout the year, Grace Baptist had collected $1,200 for this purpose—in part through generous monthly donations from a church member with Down syndrome—but that was nowhere near the more than $3,500 needed. A travelling construction worker who had visited their church surprised them with a gift of $1,000 for the shoebox shipping. Then another couple in the church had some extra funds come in and offered to pay all that was left of the shipping costs.
The next Sunday, Mark announced that the shipping was covered, but he also said, “If the Lord’s leading you to give anything for Operation Christmas Child and you’ve not yet given, today’s the day to come clean with God.” This prompted the church to give another $400. They sent all of it in to cover the shipping of their own shoeboxes, as well as some other boxes sent to Samaritan’s Purse without the requested donation.
‘Give, and It Will Be Given to You’
This was also the time of year when Southern Baptist churches set goals for their Lottie Moon Christmas missions offering, named after a pioneering female missionary to China. In the past, Grace Baptist’s goal had been around $750. But in 2014, someone in the congregation suggested that their goal wasn’t a dollar amount, but rather obedience to God. So, instead of writing a projected financial goal on the posters they placed around the church, they simply wrote “obedience.”
Mark feared that because of their Operation Christmas Child giving that their Christmas missions offering would suffer. But he said, “Last year after packing 500 shoeboxes, our Lottie Moon offering doubled over what it had ever been before. I’m telling you Luke 6:38 is true. ‘Give, and it will be given to you.’”
This biblical principle was true for the church in other ways as well. Early on, when Grace Baptist paid their bills, there wasn’t enough leftover to pay their pastor. But since they’ve been giving to Operation Christmas Child that has changed.
“Right now it’s hard to believe I’m looking at the right paper when I’m looking at the treasurer’s report,” Mark said. God is blessing them both financially and numerically.
Celebrating More than 2,000 Shoebox Gifts
Mark and Cherry volunteered at the Processing Center in Dallas again in 2014 and as they prayed on their way home, they felt God was asking them to fill 2,000 shoebox gifts in 2015.
“It is no bigger of a deal to God to fill 2,000 boxes than it was to fill 500,” Mark said. But to his congregation, it felt overwhelming. That only increased their sense of celebration on Saturday, October 24, when they exceeded their goal.
The next morning, church members entered the church to find every one of their 2,118 shoeboxes lining the front, sides, and center aisle of their church building. To the right of the podium, which bore an Operation Christmas Child logo, shoebox gifts formed a Christmas tree.
After a verse of “Victory in Jesus,” Mark said, “I believe this is the happiest day for our church.” Drawing from Psalm 2:8, he went on to say, “God is letting us have the nations as our inheritance.”
“We said, ‘We can’t, but if You help us we will,’” Mark said, recapping their journey over the past year. Tears flowed as he recounted God’s faithfulness to help them surpass their goal to bless children in need around the world with a tangible gift of God’s love.
Mark also pointed out that with 2,118 shoeboxes, they needed $14,826 to cover the shipping. Throughout the year, they had collected $1,645.46. Then $3,200 came in at Saturday’s packing party, leaving them a deficit of $9,980.54.
“Are you wrapping your minds around these numbers?” Mark asked.
Then Mark proceeded to share that someone from outside the church had handed him a check that morning for $14,000, specifically to cover the shipping expenses. Gasps went up around the room.
They now had $18,845.46 to cover shipping for their boxes and they committed to sending it all to Samaritan’s Purse.
“I believe the highest form of worship we give to God is when we offer up to Him what we’ve sacrificially given,” Mark said.
The congregation dispersed around the room to lay hands on the shoeboxes. Cherry prayed, “Give these boxes to the boys and girls they’re just right for. We pray for every child, every community that will be impacted by these boxes.”
Others joined her in praise and thanksgiving. One even confessed, “When Mark said we’d pack 2,000, I thought he was crazy.”
But God did it.
“We haven’t done anything special, but seek to obey God and what He’s told us to do,” Mark said. “There’s nothing special about Grace Baptist Church or its preacher. But I tell you there’s something mighty special about the God that we serve.”
-Article written by Samaritan’s Purse.
See full article and additional photos:
http://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/small-texas-church-takes-on-a-god-sized-goal/
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, November 11, AD 2015.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Baptismal Regeneration; Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation? Part 1
I believe in and practice Believers Baptism by Immersion.
Many believe, however, in Baptismal Regeneration. This view teaches you must believe in Jesus and also be baptized to be saved. They teach baptism is a part of salvation. Rather, the Bible teaches faith in Jesus Christ, and nothing else, brings about your salvation.
Does the Bible teach you are saved (born again, regenerated, forgiven, made right with God, given a place in Heaven, have everlasting life) by believing in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Yes.
Consider these verses:
Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace. -Luke 7:50 NKJV
Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” -Luke 23:42-43 The thief on the cross could not be baptized or do any good works, he could only believe.
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. -John 1:12
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. -John 3:16
He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. -John 3:36
Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. -John 5:24
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. -John 20:31
Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out. -Acts 3:19
To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins. -Acts 10:43
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household. -Acts 16:31
For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” -Romans 4:3; also Genesis 15:6
But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness. -Romans 4:5
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit. -Titus 3:5
If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation…For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. -Romans 10:9-10, 13
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. -Ephesians 1:13
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. -Ephesians 2:8-9
Notice these verses (and many more) do not mention baptism at all. Simply repent, believe, turn your life over to Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. Notice as well that baptism is a good work, yet we are not saved by good works.
Those who believe baptism is a part of salvation negate all these verses by emphasizing a few verses that appear to state their case. But, if we have to answer for their verses, they must answer for the many more clear, unambiguous verses that plainly state belief in Jesus saves us.
In a hospital waiting room a man who believes in Baptismal Regeneration told me, “The Bible says if you believe you will have a chance to be saved.” Three times he stated this, and three times I told him, that is not what the Bible says. Rather than his extra-biblical view, the Bible simply states if you believe you will be saved.
Lest there be misunderstanding, we are saved by faith, then works follow. Once we have been saved, God commands us to live for Him and produce good works.
Next: What about the Bible passages that seem to teach Baptismal Regeneration?
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, October 14, AD 2015.
Articles:
Baptismal Regeneration; Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation? Part 2
The Roman Road of Salvation
Basic Baptist Doctrines / Beliefs
Other articles in lower right margin.
Many believe, however, in Baptismal Regeneration. This view teaches you must believe in Jesus and also be baptized to be saved. They teach baptism is a part of salvation. Rather, the Bible teaches faith in Jesus Christ, and nothing else, brings about your salvation.
Does the Bible teach you are saved (born again, regenerated, forgiven, made right with God, given a place in Heaven, have everlasting life) by believing in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Yes.
Consider these verses:
Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace. -Luke 7:50 NKJV
Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” -Luke 23:42-43 The thief on the cross could not be baptized or do any good works, he could only believe.
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. -John 1:12
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. -John 3:16
He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. -John 3:36
Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. -John 5:24
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. -John 20:31
Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out. -Acts 3:19
To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins. -Acts 10:43
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household. -Acts 16:31
For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” -Romans 4:3; also Genesis 15:6
But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness. -Romans 4:5
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit. -Titus 3:5
If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation…For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. -Romans 10:9-10, 13
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. -Ephesians 1:13
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. -Ephesians 2:8-9
Notice these verses (and many more) do not mention baptism at all. Simply repent, believe, turn your life over to Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. Notice as well that baptism is a good work, yet we are not saved by good works.
Those who believe baptism is a part of salvation negate all these verses by emphasizing a few verses that appear to state their case. But, if we have to answer for their verses, they must answer for the many more clear, unambiguous verses that plainly state belief in Jesus saves us.
In a hospital waiting room a man who believes in Baptismal Regeneration told me, “The Bible says if you believe you will have a chance to be saved.” Three times he stated this, and three times I told him, that is not what the Bible says. Rather than his extra-biblical view, the Bible simply states if you believe you will be saved.
Lest there be misunderstanding, we are saved by faith, then works follow. Once we have been saved, God commands us to live for Him and produce good works.
Next: What about the Bible passages that seem to teach Baptismal Regeneration?
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, October 14, AD 2015.
Articles:
Baptismal Regeneration; Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation? Part 2
The Roman Road of Salvation
Basic Baptist Doctrines / Beliefs
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Black Lives Matter; All Lives Matter
Then Peter opened his mouth and said: In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. -Acts 10:34-35
In Harris County and just outside of Houston, Texas, Deputy Sheriff Darren Goforth was a customer at a gas station. He was in uniform. As the white Deputy walked back to his vehicle, a black man walked up behind him and shot him in the back of the head. He continued to shoot him as the Deputy crumpled to the ground.
Later, Harris County Sheriff Ron Hickman said,
“We’ve heard ‘black lives matter.’ ‘All lives matter.’ Well cops’ lives matter too. So why don’t we just drop the qualifying and just say, ‘lives matter.’”
The misreporting and misrepresentation of the incident in Ferguson, Missouri, and other such incidents have apparently led to the murder of several police officers. Lately racial issues have gotten worse instead of better.
A few general thoughts about racism.
1. White police officers are not systematically hunting down and murdering innocent, unarmed black men. The facts simply do not support this.
2. “Hands up, don’t shoot,” is a blatant misrepresentation of the facts of the Ferguson, Missouri incident. Don’t perpetuate this untruth; and call people on it when they do. Facts matter, a lot.
3. Misrepresenting incidents to make them look racially motivated, do not reduce racism, they aggravate racism. They may even aggravate racist murders against white police officers.
4. Bringing down a Confederate flag may make some feel good, but does nothing to reduce racism. In fact, it may incite it. Perhaps both sides should respect the other’s cultural heritage. I say this as white man who does not fly a Confederate flag. Stop forcing everyone to be politically correct.
5. True racism is clearly wrong. America has a history of this, but thank God most of that is in the past.
6. Not all claims of racism are, in fact, true.
7. Some use racism as an excuse for their inappropriate behavior.
8. Some are way too sensitive about racial issues.
9. We all suffer from daily or weekly slights that have nothing to do with racism.
10. America is incredibly less racist than it was 50 years ago. Most everything Martin Luther King asked for in his “I Have A Dream” message has been accomplished.
11. There is such a thing as white privilege; there is also such a thing as black privilege. Two young men are equally intelligent, capable, men of integrity, have a positive attitude and good work ethic. One is black, one is white. Today in America in many situations the black man would actually have the advantage in getting a job. However, both should easily get and keep a good job.
Regardless of race, if one has a bad attitude and poor work ethic, he is going to have a tough time getting and keeping a job.
Some in law enforcement have said one reason more blacks are not serving as policemen is because if they are qualified to do so, they are also qualified to get a higher paying job, and probably a job with less stress.
12. Racists come in all colors.
13. If a white man murders a black man, whether for racist or other reasons, that white man should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The same goes for any other combination of races. How about judging men by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin?
14. Do not make a hero out of a criminal, regardless of his ethnicity.
15. If a man or woman of any color is smart-aleck and combative when a police officer stops them, expect that they will get in trouble, go to jail, or worse. The same goes for resisting, or fleeing from, an officer. On the other hand, if a police officer abuses his authority, he should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
16. Teach your children to respect, and submit to, those in authority. If those in authority are out of line, go through the proper channels to remedy the situation. Also, if you are not a gangster, it may help to not dress or act like one. Walk in a store on a hot sunny day with a bad attitude and a hoody, and you can expect to be viewed with suspicion.
17. Teach your children to have a good, positive attitude in general. Don’t have them walking around with a chip on their shoulder. This also helps in getting and keeping a job.
18. Planned Parenthood kills more African-Americans (through abortion) in a year than the Ku Klux Klan killed in their entire history. I don’t support either one.
19. News media should be much more careful about inciting racial incidents. They should fairly present both sides.
20. Do not follow a crowd to do evil.
You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice. You shall not show partiality to a poor man in his dispute. -Exodus 23:2-3.
21. A biblical church should welcome anyone of any race.
22. Everyone wants to be treated with respect. Treat everyone with respect, unless there is clear reason to not do so.
23. All lives matter!
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, October 6, AD 2015.
Articles:
Nelson Mandela Quotes; and Comments About Mandela
Quotes by Martin Luther King, Jr.
Other Articles / Labels in lower right margin.
In Harris County and just outside of Houston, Texas, Deputy Sheriff Darren Goforth was a customer at a gas station. He was in uniform. As the white Deputy walked back to his vehicle, a black man walked up behind him and shot him in the back of the head. He continued to shoot him as the Deputy crumpled to the ground.
Later, Harris County Sheriff Ron Hickman said,
“We’ve heard ‘black lives matter.’ ‘All lives matter.’ Well cops’ lives matter too. So why don’t we just drop the qualifying and just say, ‘lives matter.’”
The misreporting and misrepresentation of the incident in Ferguson, Missouri, and other such incidents have apparently led to the murder of several police officers. Lately racial issues have gotten worse instead of better.
A few general thoughts about racism.
1. White police officers are not systematically hunting down and murdering innocent, unarmed black men. The facts simply do not support this.
2. “Hands up, don’t shoot,” is a blatant misrepresentation of the facts of the Ferguson, Missouri incident. Don’t perpetuate this untruth; and call people on it when they do. Facts matter, a lot.
3. Misrepresenting incidents to make them look racially motivated, do not reduce racism, they aggravate racism. They may even aggravate racist murders against white police officers.
4. Bringing down a Confederate flag may make some feel good, but does nothing to reduce racism. In fact, it may incite it. Perhaps both sides should respect the other’s cultural heritage. I say this as white man who does not fly a Confederate flag. Stop forcing everyone to be politically correct.
5. True racism is clearly wrong. America has a history of this, but thank God most of that is in the past.
6. Not all claims of racism are, in fact, true.
7. Some use racism as an excuse for their inappropriate behavior.
8. Some are way too sensitive about racial issues.
9. We all suffer from daily or weekly slights that have nothing to do with racism.
10. America is incredibly less racist than it was 50 years ago. Most everything Martin Luther King asked for in his “I Have A Dream” message has been accomplished.
11. There is such a thing as white privilege; there is also such a thing as black privilege. Two young men are equally intelligent, capable, men of integrity, have a positive attitude and good work ethic. One is black, one is white. Today in America in many situations the black man would actually have the advantage in getting a job. However, both should easily get and keep a good job.
Regardless of race, if one has a bad attitude and poor work ethic, he is going to have a tough time getting and keeping a job.
Some in law enforcement have said one reason more blacks are not serving as policemen is because if they are qualified to do so, they are also qualified to get a higher paying job, and probably a job with less stress.
12. Racists come in all colors.
13. If a white man murders a black man, whether for racist or other reasons, that white man should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The same goes for any other combination of races. How about judging men by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin?
14. Do not make a hero out of a criminal, regardless of his ethnicity.
15. If a man or woman of any color is smart-aleck and combative when a police officer stops them, expect that they will get in trouble, go to jail, or worse. The same goes for resisting, or fleeing from, an officer. On the other hand, if a police officer abuses his authority, he should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
16. Teach your children to respect, and submit to, those in authority. If those in authority are out of line, go through the proper channels to remedy the situation. Also, if you are not a gangster, it may help to not dress or act like one. Walk in a store on a hot sunny day with a bad attitude and a hoody, and you can expect to be viewed with suspicion.
17. Teach your children to have a good, positive attitude in general. Don’t have them walking around with a chip on their shoulder. This also helps in getting and keeping a job.
18. Planned Parenthood kills more African-Americans (through abortion) in a year than the Ku Klux Klan killed in their entire history. I don’t support either one.
19. News media should be much more careful about inciting racial incidents. They should fairly present both sides.
20. Do not follow a crowd to do evil.
You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice. You shall not show partiality to a poor man in his dispute. -Exodus 23:2-3.
21. A biblical church should welcome anyone of any race.
22. Everyone wants to be treated with respect. Treat everyone with respect, unless there is clear reason to not do so.
23. All lives matter!
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, October 6, AD 2015.
Articles:
Nelson Mandela Quotes; and Comments About Mandela
Quotes by Martin Luther King, Jr.
Monday, September 21, 2015
John R. Rice's "Sword of the Lord" Not KJV Only
We’ve had a previous article or two about the fact John R. Rice, R. L. Sumner, and the Sword of the Lord were not King James Version only. In other words, they did not believe in, and spoke against, the idea that the KJV is the only version for the English speaking world. Of course, after the death of Dr. Rice the Sword of the Lord leadership adopted the modern doctrine of KJV Only.
The question was raised about a statement of faith the Sword of the Lord founding editor, John R. Rice, required his board to sign. And how that statement was not KJV Only.
Former board member and Associate Editor of the Sword of the Lord, R. L. Sumner recently spoke to this in The Biblical Evangelist:
DR. JOHN RICE & KJVONLY
Some time ago, during a KJVOnly discussion, I made mention of the fact that Dr. John R. Rice had his board members sign a Statement of Faith annually that limited the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God to the original manuscripts. Someone asked for a copy and I couldn’t find one in my files. The other day, while looking through his longtime secretary’s semi-biography, John R. Rice: “The Captain of Our Team,” I saw where she printed it out in reporting our1965 annual meeting (on pages 251-252 of Captain).
Here is the first point, dealing with inspiration, inerrancy:
I BELIEVE
1. In the verbal inspiration of the Scriptures and the absolute reliability and authority, without error, in the original manuscripts.
That was what Dr. Rice believed and what he insisted those associated with him believe. Note carefully those words: in the original manuscripts! It was not in the KJV, the NIV, the NASB, or any of the other versions/translations/paraphrases of the day. It was “absolute reliability,” “authority,” and “without error” in the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. That was it; and that alone!
Signing that year, as Miss Viola reported it in her book, in the order she reported it, was Dr. John R. Rice, president; Dr. Bill Rice; Dr. Jack Hyles; Dr. R. L. Sumner; Dr. Tom Malone, Al Byers, Evangelist Bud Lyles; Rev. Paul Raker; Mrs. John R. Rice; Miss Fairy Shappard; “and I, Viola Walden.”
It is interesting that Jack Hyles, who announced he was KJVOnly before Rice’s body had time to turn to dust, signed that statement! And it is also interesting that the public position of The Sword of the Lord today is KJVOnly – very definitely not in the tradition of Dr. John R. Rice – or the original position of The Sword of the Lord.
Times change; but Truth doesn’t!
-R. L. Sumner, Biblical Evangelist; August-October, 2015.
http://biblicalevangelist.org/index.php?id=1622&view=Off+the+Cuff%21
The historic, fundamental doctrine of inspiration is that the 66 books of the Bible were inspired by God in the original manuscripts and is the inerrant, infallible Word of God. No particular translation of the Bible has that supernatural divine inspiration, only the original manuscripts. The job of the translator is to have his translation as close to, and as accurate to the original manuscripts as possible.
The 1611 King James Version was translated by Anglican / Episcopalian Bible scholars. They did an outstanding job, but freely admitted their’s was not a perfect translation. The Bible is the perfect Word of God, not a particular translation.
Good English translations include: KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, HCSB. My favorite continues to be the New King James Version. Studying more than one English translation, however, can help in better understanding a particular passage of Scripture.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, September 21, AD 2015.
Articles:
John R. Rice and KJV Only
John R. Rice and the Sword of the Lord; Part 1
B. H. Carroll on Inspiration of Bible
Brief History of SBC Conservative Resurgence
Dr. R. L. Sumner on "Ancient Wine and the Bible"
Basic Baptist Doctrines / Beliefs
Scofield Bible, First 100 Years
Bob Jones, Sr. on Wine, Alcohol, Christian Drinking
Lester Roloff Letter to Joe Brumbelow / Separation
R. L. Sumner and the Biblical Evangelist
More articles in lower right margin.
The question was raised about a statement of faith the Sword of the Lord founding editor, John R. Rice, required his board to sign. And how that statement was not KJV Only.
Former board member and Associate Editor of the Sword of the Lord, R. L. Sumner recently spoke to this in The Biblical Evangelist:
DR. JOHN RICE & KJVONLY
Some time ago, during a KJVOnly discussion, I made mention of the fact that Dr. John R. Rice had his board members sign a Statement of Faith annually that limited the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God to the original manuscripts. Someone asked for a copy and I couldn’t find one in my files. The other day, while looking through his longtime secretary’s semi-biography, John R. Rice: “The Captain of Our Team,” I saw where she printed it out in reporting our1965 annual meeting (on pages 251-252 of Captain).
Here is the first point, dealing with inspiration, inerrancy:
I BELIEVE
1. In the verbal inspiration of the Scriptures and the absolute reliability and authority, without error, in the original manuscripts.
That was what Dr. Rice believed and what he insisted those associated with him believe. Note carefully those words: in the original manuscripts! It was not in the KJV, the NIV, the NASB, or any of the other versions/translations/paraphrases of the day. It was “absolute reliability,” “authority,” and “without error” in the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. That was it; and that alone!
Signing that year, as Miss Viola reported it in her book, in the order she reported it, was Dr. John R. Rice, president; Dr. Bill Rice; Dr. Jack Hyles; Dr. R. L. Sumner; Dr. Tom Malone, Al Byers, Evangelist Bud Lyles; Rev. Paul Raker; Mrs. John R. Rice; Miss Fairy Shappard; “and I, Viola Walden.”
It is interesting that Jack Hyles, who announced he was KJVOnly before Rice’s body had time to turn to dust, signed that statement! And it is also interesting that the public position of The Sword of the Lord today is KJVOnly – very definitely not in the tradition of Dr. John R. Rice – or the original position of The Sword of the Lord.
Times change; but Truth doesn’t!
-R. L. Sumner, Biblical Evangelist; August-October, 2015.
http://biblicalevangelist.org/index.php?id=1622&view=Off+the+Cuff%21
The historic, fundamental doctrine of inspiration is that the 66 books of the Bible were inspired by God in the original manuscripts and is the inerrant, infallible Word of God. No particular translation of the Bible has that supernatural divine inspiration, only the original manuscripts. The job of the translator is to have his translation as close to, and as accurate to the original manuscripts as possible.
The 1611 King James Version was translated by Anglican / Episcopalian Bible scholars. They did an outstanding job, but freely admitted their’s was not a perfect translation. The Bible is the perfect Word of God, not a particular translation.
Good English translations include: KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, HCSB. My favorite continues to be the New King James Version. Studying more than one English translation, however, can help in better understanding a particular passage of Scripture.
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, September 21, AD 2015.
Articles:
John R. Rice and KJV Only
John R. Rice and the Sword of the Lord; Part 1
B. H. Carroll on Inspiration of Bible
Brief History of SBC Conservative Resurgence
Dr. R. L. Sumner on "Ancient Wine and the Bible"
Basic Baptist Doctrines / Beliefs
Scofield Bible, First 100 Years
Bob Jones, Sr. on Wine, Alcohol, Christian Drinking
Lester Roloff Letter to Joe Brumbelow / Separation
R. L. Sumner and the Biblical Evangelist
More articles in lower right margin.
Monday, September 7, 2015
"Ancient Wine and the Bible" In These Libraries
According to WorldCat.org the book, Ancient Wine and the Bible: The Case for Abstinence, is in the following libraries (order in which they appear):
1. Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA. Moody Memorial Library.
2. East Texas Baptist University, Marshall, Texas. Mamye Jarrett Library.
3. Criswell College, Dallas, Texas. Wallace Library.
4. Dallas Theological Seminary, Dallas, TX. Turpin Library.
5. Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, TX. Roberts Library.
6. Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee, Oklahoma. Mabee Learning Center.
7. Williams Baptist College, Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. Felix Goodson Library.
8. Wayland Baptist University, Plainview, TX.
9. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Kansas City, Missiouri. MBTS Library.
10. Brewton-Parker College, Mt. Vernon, Georgia. Fountain-New Library.
11. Lincoln Christian University, Lincoln, Illinois. Jessie C. Eury Library.
12. Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky. James P. Boyce Centennial Library.
13. Scott County Public Library, Georgetown, Kentucky.
14. Charleston Southern University, Charleston, South Carolina. L. Mendel Rivers Library.
15. Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, Illinois. Moody Bible Institute Library.
16. Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Indiana. AMBS Library.
17. Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Miller Library.
18. Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia. Jerry Falwell Library.
19. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, North Carolina. SEBTS Library.
20. Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, New Jersey.
Apparently it is in a number of other libraries that have not listed it with WorldCat.
What about your library?
To all who had a part in placing Ancient Wine and the Bible in these and other libraries - Thank you very much!
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, September 7, AD 2015.
http://www.worldcat.org/title/ancient-wine-and-the-bible-the-case-for-abstinence/oclc/761318389
Ancient Wine and the Bible - the Book; update
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
Deuteronomy 14:26 - Does it Commend Alcohol?
Other articles in lower right margin.
1. Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA. Moody Memorial Library.
2. East Texas Baptist University, Marshall, Texas. Mamye Jarrett Library.
3. Criswell College, Dallas, Texas. Wallace Library.
4. Dallas Theological Seminary, Dallas, TX. Turpin Library.
5. Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, TX. Roberts Library.
6. Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee, Oklahoma. Mabee Learning Center.
7. Williams Baptist College, Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. Felix Goodson Library.
8. Wayland Baptist University, Plainview, TX.
9. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Kansas City, Missiouri. MBTS Library.
10. Brewton-Parker College, Mt. Vernon, Georgia. Fountain-New Library.
11. Lincoln Christian University, Lincoln, Illinois. Jessie C. Eury Library.
12. Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky. James P. Boyce Centennial Library.
13. Scott County Public Library, Georgetown, Kentucky.
14. Charleston Southern University, Charleston, South Carolina. L. Mendel Rivers Library.
15. Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, Illinois. Moody Bible Institute Library.
16. Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Indiana. AMBS Library.
17. Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Miller Library.
18. Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia. Jerry Falwell Library.
19. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, North Carolina. SEBTS Library.
20. Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, New Jersey.
Apparently it is in a number of other libraries that have not listed it with WorldCat.
What about your library?
To all who had a part in placing Ancient Wine and the Bible in these and other libraries - Thank you very much!
-David R. Brumbelow, Gulf Coast Pastor, September 7, AD 2015.
http://www.worldcat.org/title/ancient-wine-and-the-bible-the-case-for-abstinence/oclc/761318389
Ancient Wine and the Bible - the Book; update
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
Deuteronomy 14:26 - Does it Commend Alcohol?
Other articles in lower right margin.
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