When Marxism hits America

   



 Its easy to see how people are becoming disengaged with politics nowadays.  It seems everything has become too saturated with politics that there's no getting around anything without it affecting you in some way.  It's even crept into our social lives and our sports arena's.   That's why people are "turning off".  They have had enough!
     Our political system is too far gone down the tubes, in my opinion, its too late to save anything.  America will go down.  No more Super power.  No more Justice.  No more liberty.  Its gone.
     Our system has been infiltrated for a very long time by people who do not believe in the America experiment.   The facts are that the two party system is really working as one system to dismantle the American way of life to usher in this New Age global agenda.  And its working.  This is why you see the break down of our morals and our laws.  Its part of the plan.  If those two are gone, then you really don't have much of a chance.
     America was once a great idea.  People from all over the world would break their backs just to come and make a life for themselves here.  But now people don't care about what's right.   They don't care about preserving an idea that has worked for more than 230 years.  They don't care about  destroying a country that has given so much to so many people.  Nope.  All that doesn't matter.  Its all about the ME generation, disguised in the name of "community".   People do not seem to understand that this nation has been in a global agenda for many years now, It started back in the 1900's and it has progressed even rapidly in the last few years.  It doesn't matter which party is in office.  America will crumble.  People might be able to slow the progression, but ultimately, it will happen.   It will get worse for the people of faith who still believe in absolutes.  Sorry if I sound pessimistic, but that's where we are at.  America's best days are behind here.  

Government Showdown

So here we are again.... in the eleventh hour.  Everyone is wondering whether the Government is going to shut down.  The politicians have taken America hostage. What's going to happen?  After watching @Cspan for most of two days while sick, I got to witness Republicans come out with a budget and Amendment to defund the President's new health care law.  An unprecedented Anti American, UnConstitutional healthcare law that requires all people, with the exception of the President himself, his family and Politicians in Congress and some big Corporations to have it or face substantial fines.   Yes,you read that right.  The very same people who passed the healthcare bill in the middle of Christmas eve night without even reading what was in it, are exempt from Obamacare, as it is known here in the States. It was passed by partisan support because the Republicans were excluded from taking part in any discussions over it. Not only that, but politicians were bribed into voting for it with money.   Yes, you heard that right also.  Democrats in the Senate were bribed into voting for something that nobody knew what was in it!  Now that it is about to take effect on October 1, Companies are starting to see the destructive circumstances of such a bill well in advance.   So here we are.  Republicans have tried to pass a budget to keep the Government from closing, but Democrats have voted it out.  Republicans compromised and asked for an amendment that would halt the Individual mandate for a whole year, and now we wait to see what Democrats are going to do tomorrow.  I tell you its like watching  bullies in the playground.  Republicans are trying to do the will of the people, because no one wants Obamacare!  Republicans hold the money.  Democrats may have control of things, but they do not control the money.  Democrats are like the bully in the playground that tells everyone to play by their rules or else.  Republicans are the scared little kids that have their money taken away because they are too wimpy to stand up to these mean ol' bullies. Will the Republicans cave to the demands of the Bullies in Congress?  We shall see.  I do know one thing.  If they cave in again, it might be over for that Party.  Its time to stand up for what's right.  #DefundObamaCare!  I'm praying the  Republicans have the back bone to stand up and fight!

Make Things Happen!

     I was watching the Cowboys vs Giants game on Sunday Night Football the other day, and it was an ugly game.  Lots of turnovers by the Giants and lack of momentum by the Cowboys.  Neither had their game "face" on that night.  Every now and then, Dallas would make a play to put them on top of the scoreboard.  By halftime, it looked like it was all Dallas. When the second half came, it looked liked the momentum had shifted to the Giants. They scored enough points to be behind by two touchdowns!  It seemed that Dallas was destined to fail again, everyone was saying it.  But with seconds in the game, the Cowboys made another important game changing play that would seal the win for them. At the end of the game, the sportscaster asked one of the Dallas player's what was the deciding factor in the win. His answer was simple and to the point.  "We made things happen when we needed to!" 
It didn't take special talent to do it.  Anyone could have done it!  Maybe they realized the agony they would have felt if they had lost this game.  Confidence in the team would have been lost.  Even if it was the first game of the season!  The fans have seen enough of mediocrity!  Its time to change  the momentum of  the game.  It's time to take the initiative and make something happen.  Will you?

CAN WE TRUST THE HOLY BIBLE?

 

 

 

Is the Bible of today reliable, accurate, and trustworthy, or has it been changed and corrupted through the centuries and therefore unreliable and different from what it was when originally written?

Benjamin Warfield was instructor in New Testament Language and Literature at Western Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh; Doctor of Laws both from the College of New Jersey and Davidson College in 1892; Doctor of letters from Lafayette College in 1911; and Sacrae Theologiae Doctor from the University of Utrecht in 1913. In 1886 he was called to succeed A. Hodge as Professor of Systematic Theology in Princeton Theological Seminary – a position which he occupied with great distinction until his death in 1921.

Warfield states in his book, Introduction to Textual Criticism of the New Testament, “If we compare the present state of the New Testament text with that of any other ancient writing, we must ... declare it to be marvelously correct. Such has been the care with which the New Testament has been copied – a care which has doubtless grown out of true reverence for its holy words – such has been the providence of God in preserving for His Church in each and every age a competently exact text of the Scriptures, that not only is the New Testament unrivaled among ancient writings in the purity of its text as actually transmitted and kept in use, but also in the abundance of testimony which has come down to us for castigating its comparatively infrequent blemishes.”

Warfield boldly declares that the facts show that the great majority of the New Testament “has been transmitted to us with no, or next to no, variations and even in the most corrupt form in which it has ever appeared, to use the oft-quoted words of Richard Bently, ‘the real text of the sacred writers is competently exact; ...nor is one article of faith or moral precept either perverted or lost…’ choose as awkwardly as you will, choose the worst by design, out of the whole lump of readings.”

The historian Philip Schaff in his book, Comparison to the Greek Testament and the English Version, concluded that only 400 of the 150,000 textual variations caused doubt about the textual meaning and only 50 of these were of great significance. Not one of the variations altered “an article of faith or a precept of duty which is not abundantly sustained by other and undoubted passages, or by the whole tenor of Scripture teaching.”

Schaff quotes both Tregelles and Scriveners: “We possess so many manuscripts, and we are aided by so many versions, that we are never left to the need of conjecture as the means of removing printing errors.” (Tregelles, Greek New Testament, “Prolegomena”, P.X.)

Sir Frederic Kenyon was the director and principal librarian of the British Museum and one of the great authorities in the field of New Testament textual criticism and manuscripts.

In his book, The Story of the Bible, Kenyon writes, “It is reassuring at the end to find that the general result of all these discoveries (of manuscripts) and all this study is to strengthen the proof of the authenticity of the Scriptures, and our conviction that we have in our hands, in substantial integrity, the veritable Word of God.”

That textual errors do not endanger doctrine is emphatically stated by Kenyon when he states in his book, Our Bible and the Ancient Manuscripts, “One word of warning, already referred to, must be emphasized in conclusion. No fundamental doctrine of the Christian faith rests on a disputed reading. Constant references to mistakes and divergences of reading, such as the plan of this book necessitates, might give rise to the doubt whether the substance, as well as the language, of the Bible is not open to question. It cannot be too strongly asserted that in substance the text of the Bible is certain: Especially is this the case with the New Testament. The number of manuscripts of the New Testament, of early translations from it, and of quotations from it in the eldest writers of the Church, is so large that it is practically certain that the true reading of every doubtful passage is preserved in some one or other of these ancient authorities. This can be said of no other ancient book in the world.”

In his book, The Bible and Archaeology, Kenyon states, “The interval then between the dates of original composition and the earliest existing manuscripts becomes so small as to be in fact negligible, and the last foundation for any doubt that the Scriptures have come down to us substantially as they were written has now been removed. Both the authenticity and the general integrity of the books of the New Testament may be regarded as finally established.”

The Chester Beatty Papyri (written 200 AD) is located in the C. Beatty Museum in Dublin and part is owned by the University of Michigan. This collection contains papyrus codices, three of them containing major portions of the New Testament.

In The Bible and Modern Scholarship, Kenyon says that: “The net result of this discovery – by far the most important since the discovery of the Sinaiticus – is, in fact, to reduce the gap between the earlier manuscripts and the traditional dates of the New Testament books so far that it becomes negligible in any discussion of their authenticity. No other ancient book has anything like such early and plentiful testimony to its text, and no unbiased scholar would deny that the text that has come down to us is substantially sound.”

Millar Burrows of Yale is the American expert on the Dead Sea Scrolls, and archaeologist. In his book, What Mean These Stones?, Burrows says, “(the New Testament texts) have been transmitted with remarkable fidelity, so that there need be no doubt whatever regarding the teaching conveyed by them.”

Burrows goes on to say, “…archaeological work has unquestionably strengthened confidence in the reliability of the Scriptural record. More than one archaeologist has found his respect for the Bible increased by the experience of excavation in Palestine.”

“On the whole such evidence as archaeology has afforded thus far, especially by providing additional and older manuscripts of the books of the Bible, strengthens our confidence in the accuracy with which the text has been transmitted through the centuries.”

Norman Geisler is a graduate of Wheaton College and Wheaton Graduate School, majoring in philosophy and theology respectively. He also attended Detroit Bible College (ThB), and was Asst. Professor of Bible and Philosophy at Trinity College in Illinois.

In his book, A General Introduction to the Bible, Geisler states, “Because of its (the John Ryland manuscript – written in 130 AD – and located in the J. Ryland Library of Manchester, England) early date and location (Egypt), some distance from the traditional place of composition (Asia Minor), this portion of the gospel of John tends to confirm the traditional date of the composition of the gospel about the end of the first century.”

Geisler also states that, “the quotations (from the New Testament) are so numerous and widespread that if no manuscripts of the New Testament were extant, the New Testament could be reproduced from the writings of the early (Church) Fathers alone.”

In 1947, in a cave in Jordan, the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Among these scrolls was a complete manuscript copy of the Hebrew text of Isaiah, which paleographers have dated to be written around 125 BC.  Geisler states that, “the impact of this discovery is in the exactness of the Isaiah scroll (125 BC) with the Massoretic text of Isaiah (916 AD) 1000 years later. This demonstrates the unusual accuracy of the copyists of the Scripture over a thousand year period.”

Bruce Metzger is Professor of New Testament Language and Literature at Princeton Theological Seminary. He states that the Codex Vaticanus (written between 325 - 350 AD) is one of the most valuable manuscripts of the Greek Bible. This manuscript is located in the Vatican Library and contains nearly all the Bible – Metzger’s, The Text of the New Testament.

The Codex Sinaiticus (written about 350 AD) is located in the British museum. It contains the New Testament and over half the Old Testament.

From all of the above manuscripts the present day Bible is derived, it is the same today as it was when it was originally written.

F. F. Bruce is Rylands Professor of Biblical Criticism and Exegesis at the University of Manchester. Dr. Bruce states in his book, The Books and the Parchments, that, “There is no body of ancient literature in the world which enjoys such a wealth of good textual attestation as the New Testament.”

Nelson Glueck, the renowned Jewish archaeologist, wrote in his book, Rivers in the Desert, that: “It may be stated categorically that no archaeological discovery has ever controverted a biblical reference.”

Dr. F. F. Bruce states that the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament) written about 200 BC helps to establish the reliability of the Old Testament’s transmission through 1,300 years when compared with the Massoretic Text (916 AD) we have today.

Has the Bible that we have today been changed or corrupted from what was originally written? This brief analysis should make it obvious to an unbiased reader that it hasn’t.

A Change in Attitude

Lately, it just seems that everything has gotten the best of me.  Like one thing after another seems to happen and its just taken its toll.  Whether its the slow driver on the "fast" lane.  Or just not being able to take a nice vacation away somewhere to clear my head get the right perspective.  Sometimes, we just all need to check our attitudes regardless of what's going on.  Below is a question and answer that was recorded by one of my favorite devotional speakers.  Her name if Elisabeth Elliott.  You might have heard of her.  I'm sure you have.
She speaks about maintaining a good  attitude in any situation in our lives.  This is what she wrote: 

Elisabeth Elliot: "You are loved with an everlasting love." That's what the Bible says, "and underneath are the everlasting arms." This is your friend Elisabeth Elliot talking with you today about choosing your attitude.
St. Teresa said, "Let nothing trouble you, let nothing frighten you, all things pass way, God never changes." I think of the words of Jesus Himself. He said, "Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me" (John 14:1). We are supposed to love our neighbors and pray for our enemies. All of this, of course, comes under the heading of "Choosing Your Attitude."
Probably I'm talking to some people who have rather difficult neighbors--people you would hardly even want to call enemies, yet you know that things are not the way you would like them to be. Be content with the things the Lord has given you. The Bible says be thankful for everything, be anxious for nothing (Phil. 4:6).
Many of you know the story of Fanny Crosby who wrote several thousand hymns. And she was blinded when she was only six weeks old because of a mistake of a doctor. When she was just a little girl eight or nine years old, she wrote:
Oh, what a happy soul am I! Although I cannot see,
I am resolved that in this world contented I shall be.
How many blessings I enjoy that other people don't.
To weep and sigh because I'm blind, I cannot--and I won't! Can you choose your attitude as this little girl did? Of course, I don't know what your problem may be, what attitude you may be facing and realizing that it's not quite right. You can choose you attitude.
Now just let me give you three points. You might be able to remember them better this way. Number one is "The Cost," number two is "A Few Specifics," and number three "Let This Mind Be in You."
Now it's going to cost something for you to choose your attitude when you don't feel like choosing your attitude or you don't like the attitude of someone else that perhaps you have to work with. I may be talking to people who live in a workplace and you find it very difficult to work with the people that you are supposed to be nice to. So there's going to be a cost, of course.
The Lord Jesus was willing to be a totally helpless baby when He came into this world. As He grew, He grew like a boy and then a man. He had to be tired. Just think of it--the Lord of the Universe, He needed to sleep. He had to get away from the multitudes in order to pray with His Father. He said, "I am among you as One who serves" (Luke 22:27). That cost Him something, didn't it.
In Philippians 2:5-8 it says, "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing," made Himself nothing, "taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross!" That was the cost to the Lord Jesus in choosing His attitude.
Ephesians 4:23 tells us that we should be made new in the attitude of our minds. I think it would be a good idea for all of us when we wake up in the morning if we would ask the Lord to make us new in the attitude of our mind for this day, whatever may be facing you. I happen to be facing some difficulties. "Lord, what am I supposed to do--fall apart, be angry at God?" The Lord is speaking to me as I speak to you; He wants me to be made new in the attitude of my mind.
Number two under "Choose Your Attitude" is "Specifics." I am quite sure that there are some mothers listening to me. Mothering is a tough job, isn't it? It means day by day putting yourself at the disposal of other people; very likely, very small people who can be an awful nuisance and make a lot of noise and a lot of messes. I don't know what the specifics may be of your particular challenge today, but God knows.
Day by day the Lord Jesus Himself was followed by multitudes of people. I can imagine them plucking at His sleeve, calling out to Him, yelling at Him at times, trying to catch up with Him--all the demands that human beings could make on the Lord of the Universe. What was His attitude? He chose an attitude of total abandonment to His Heavenly Father's demands.
You wives who are listening to me, how do you like being subordinate to your husband? "Well, Elisabeth, if you knew my husband, you'd know that I have a tough job." Well, of course, I don't know your husband. But I do know my husband and the Lord has given me not just one husband but three different husbands at different times. I have to choose my attitude with my present husband.
You singles--I get so many letters from single women asking me, "When is the Lord going to give me a husband?" Well, what can I say to that? Choose your attitude. This particular day you are single. As far as you know, God does not have a husband for you. He may give you a gift some time, the gift that you think you are longing for and would be the most wonderful thing in the world, but today is all you have.
When you hurt, can you bring yourself to rejoice? One of the old saints that I read said, "Accustom yourself to injustice and unreasonableness." Those are good words to remember--accustom yourself to injustice and unreasonableness.
Maybe you live with someone who is moody. That can be very difficult--people who just go off into a corner, they are silent, they don't want to talk, they look angry. Are you able to respond to that person with a calm, loving, unselfish silence? The Lord Jesus doesn't intrude upon us. He doesn't pry. He wants us to knock at the door of His heart. When we do that He's there for us. He wants to help you. Can you choose your attitude?
My dear friend Nae Bailey was traveling one time in Europe and she discovered when she got on the train that she was missing all the things that had been in her shoulder bag. Someone had robbed her as she was getting onto the train and she had her passport, her money, her tickets and I don't know what all stolen. You know what Nae did? She just sat there in the train on the seat, the train had started off, and she just said, "Well, Lord what are you going to do about this?"
Of course, there was nothing that she could do. I haven't got time to tell the whole story, but the Lord gave her peace and she just sat there trusting God that somehow or another He was going to enable her to retrieve those things--and it happened. We never know in what way we may have to choose our attitude. But today there may be a challenge.
Number three--"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 2:5). Philippians 2:12-15 says, "Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed--not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence--continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure."
Now, may I see the hands of those of you who would be able to say, "I can do everything without complaining or arguing." Of course, I can't see your hands and I don't know you. But you are listening to a woman who is a born arguer, so I have to read this verse in Philippians 2:14, "Do everything without complaining or arguing."
We are to be "children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe." Verse 17 says, "even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me."
I hope that some of my listeners will be glad and rejoice with me today. Whatever your particular situation may be--and you have heard me say many times--"do the next thing." You know what the next thing may be, some little thing, some distasteful thing, some daunting thing that you really don't want to face. Lift your heart to the Lord, choose an attitude of trust and trust that God is going to enable you to do the next thing.
Will you choose that kind of an attitude today? God bless you.

Defeating Depression

We’ve all wrestled with depression. Everyone experiences their “dark days” and “blue moods”. Each of us has felt “down” at various points in our lives. But, depression is not inevitable.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

Though all of us have a vague understanding of what depression is, most of us would have some difficulty in defining it.  

Depression comes from the word “de­pressed”. Simply stated, it is a feeling of hav­ing been pressed low in our spirits. It is a condi­tion of feeling dejection and heaviness in our heart. It has been described as feeling down, feeling blue, or feeling dis­heartened. It is often a state of desperation which gives a person the feeling of hopelessness. It is a close relative of despair, despondency, and discouragement.

WHO SUFFERS FROM DEPRESSION?

Depression is so common and widespread that everyone experiences it in some form at some point in their life. It cuts across every conceivable boundary. It is considered to be the most common mental and emotional problem affecting mankind. In fact, it is claimed that more human suffering has resulted from depression than from any other single disease!

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Though the word “depression” is not mentioned in the Bible, the scriptures contain many references to this common problem. The Bible points to many incidents of depression­ in the lives of godly men. As we have stated, it is not a problem which just affects the ungodly.

It appears that Job, Moses, David, Elijah, Jonah, Peter, Paul, and the entire nation of Israel suffered from depression. Jeremiah even expressed his deep depression in a book entitled, Lamentations. PAUL stated that he “despaired even of life” because of the intense pressures he experienced [See Job 3; Num. 11:10-15; Psa. 42, 43; 1 Ki. 19:4; Jonah 4:1-3; Matt. 26:75; 2 Cor. 1:8; and Ex. 6:9].

WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION?

The most common cause of depression is stress. Life is filled with pressing difficulties, delays, disappointments, setbacks, and tragedies. If we do not deal with the problems of life properly, they can gradually wear us down, weaken us, and create a growing sense of depression.

Often, these pressures are beyond our control. The loss of a job, health, an opportunity, possessions, or a loved one can all contribute to a state of depression. When it appears that we have no real control over the problems we experience, depression and discouragement are often the result. Sometimes it seems we have no say concerning the events which crowd into our lives. Occasionally, we feel like we’ve lost control and become a helpless victim of circumstances. At times like this, we may feel like we’ve reached a dead-end with no way out. When we feel like we are unable to do anything to change our situation, a sense of hopelessness and frustration sets in.      

When we encounter circumstances over which we have no control, we may assume that our actions are useless, no matter how hard we try. When it seems that we’ve run out of answers for our problems, we begin to sink beneath the waves of depression.

NEGATIVE THINKING

Depression can usually be traced to negative thinking. Negativity is so strongly rooted in the thought life of some people that it adversely affects every area of their life.

Our thinking patterns have a great influ­ence upon our emotions, our attitudes, and our will. Depression and discouragement are often a result of wrong thinking. Depressed people see only the dark side of life. They usually have a pessimistic outlook. Life to them is an endless succession of burdens, obstacles, and disappointments. They have convinced themselves that life is hopeless. Having painted a picture of despair in their own minds, they reinforce their feelings of despondency.

Many who suffer from depression also have a negative view of themselves. They have little or no self-esteem. They often feel deficient, inadequate, and useless. They constantly minister self-doubt and criticism to themselves. This negative feeling of failure inevitably breeds self-pity and a deep sense of depression.

Negative thinking not only affects the way we think about ourselves, but it also causes us to view the future pessimistically. All the future holds is continuing failure, hardship, and frustration.

This common tendency to think negatively is an extremely destructive pattern. Negative thinking only encourages despair and self-pity. It is a mental rut which many people have fallen into. It is a habit which must be broken.

SIN AND GUILT

A person can experience depression because of unresolved sin in his life. He may become despondent because of guilt from a particular sin which has not been properly dealt with.

Depression is often the result of ignoring sin or failing to deal with it promptly. Occasionally, we may try to conceal sin rather than face up to it honestly. When we try to cover up sin, it inevitably takes its toll. A spirit of heaviness and condemnation can develop as a consequence of sin which has been allowed to stubbornly remain in our life.

Often the sin of self-pity is a common cause of depression. Pent up resentment, lingering anger, unforgiveness, a critical spirit, or a tendency to murmur and complain can all be contributing factors to depression.

PRESSURES OF RESPONSIBILITY

Sometimes the trials, deadlines, and respon­sibilities that we face can create pressures which contribute to depression.

Occasionally, we all fall short. At times, we don’t quite measure up. We fail to meet dead­lines, achieve goals, or fulfill expectations. The many demands of life can overwhelm us and produce depression and discouragement.

When facing the responsibilities of entering Canaan land, the Israelites were overwhelmed by the challenge and sank into discouragement (Numbers 13, 14). When we sometimes face our own formidable giants of responsibility, we can also sink into depression.

PHYSICAL FACTORS

Physical factors can, and often do, contribute to depression. No matter how good our philosophy, no matter how well adjusted we are, and no matter how ideal our environment may be, if we don’t take care of ourselves properly we can pay the price in depression. When we allow our physical health to “run down”, we begin to prepare ourselves for possible depression.

Sometimes we suffer depression not because of sin, stress, or negative think­ing, but simply because we have neglected our bodies. Physical health con­tributes to mental and emotional well-being. A healthy body is less suscepti­ble to mental and physical illness. A lack of sleep, improper diet, or a lack of exercise can all contribute to depression.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF DEPRESSION?

There are not only many causes of depression, but depression produces many symptoms and manifests itself in a variety of ways, as well. This can include sadness, pessimism, fear, apathy, weariness, fatigue, a loss of energy, a lack of enthusiasm, an inability to make decisions, a desire to withdraw from life, self-criticism, a sense of worthlessness, helplessness, a loss of interest in work, sex, and normal activities, a difficulty in concentrating, insomnia, and a loss of appetite. As we can see, depression has many side effects, all of which can be very destructive.

WHAT IS THE ROOT PROBLEM?

The root problem is sin. Depression is not always sin, but our failure to deal with the problem is. “To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17).

Though we may not always be responsible for the circumstances which contribute to depression and discouragement, we are responsible for handling the problem in God’s way. We must recognize that we are not helpless, but responsible and accountable to God.

When we don’t seek God for answers, we assume the burden ourselves and inevitably fail. Depression is often the result. The first step to victory is in focusing upon Christ, rather than ourselves. This requires confessing our faults to God, and asking Him for grace and guidance.

IS THERE A SOLUTION?

*Yes! One of the greatest lies of Satan is that there is no hope for those suffering depression. This is a lie because God has the answers. Even though our circumstances may look dreary, we don’t have to give in to depression. Many times a depressed person is overcome by a sense of hopelessness, but God understands our pain and offers com­passion. He is here to help if we will not shut Him out of our lives.

Christians must recognize that there are no hopeless situations in Christ. People allow themselves to become hopeless because they haven’t looked to Jesus. Our situation doesn’t have to look bleak if we will bring Christ into the picture.

HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND TO DEPRESSION?

*In God’s way – not ours. Many Christians sink into a pit of despondency simply because they have not responded to their problems scripturally.

King David probably suffered from depression more than any other Bible character. He experienced great depths of prolonged depression, yet he learned some vital lessons for dealing with this problem. The Psalms are filled with examples of his suffering:

“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me?” (Psa. 42:5; see also Psa. 42, 43, 69, 88, and 102).

Though he had many bouts with depression, he discovered some impor­tant keys for finding victory. We will examine the seven keys to overcoming depression.

I.                   TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION.

One of the most important things we can do is to deal with the problem of depression immediately.

Depression must be challenged promptly. If you allow it to remain, it will spread like a cancer and corrupt every area of your life. A common tendency is to brood over our problems and quietly nurse our depression, rather than taking decisive steps against it. Many sink into depression simply because they do nothing about it – instead they dwell upon self-pity and reinforce their despondency. David recognized this important first step and responded by forcefully challenging himself and his depression: “Why are you cast down, O my soul? Hope in God!” (Psa. 43:5) Take action now!

II.                WE MUST DISCIPLINE OUR THOUGHTS.

“ . . . bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5). Christians must discipline their negative thoughts by submitting them to the Lordship of Christ. If we don’t, they can become very destructive. This involves submitting our thoughts to the reality of God’s Word. Christians must guard their thought life. We must not yield to corrupt thinking or indulge in negative confessions. The Word exhorts us to “meditate on” whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of a good report (Phil. 4:8). We must look at our life, our situations, and our future from God’s point of view. We need to fix our thoughts obediently upon the reality of God’s Word, meditate upon the scriptures, and cleanse our minds with the cleansing water of God’s Word.

III.               HOPE IN THE LORD.

David challenged his soul to “HOPE IN GOD!” (Psa. 42:5). In 1 Peter 1:3 we see that God has called us to a “living hope.” Our hope is not dead but alive because it is fixed upon a living God. It is a hope that is never disappointed because of God’s loving commitment to us. When we get our attention off of our problems and upon the power of God, we have access to confidence, courage, and strength. David affirmed this in Psalms 31:24: “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”

IV.             STAND ON THE PROMISES OF GOD.

Christians must stand upon the reality of God’s Word. We must recognize that “ALL THINGS” are working together for our good. When we receive this truth, we can accept our circumstances realizing that God has not forsaken us in them. There are no hopeless situations in Christ because God is in the midst of our circumstances. This is the absolute guarantee of God’s Word!

When we trust in the reality of God’s Word, we have great hope. The scriptures contain all of the answers to life’s problems. They sustain us and encourage us in every way. The counsel of scripture can minister genuine hope in spite of our circumstances. David confirmed this when he wrote: Psalm 119:81.

V.                REJOICE IN THE LORD.

Philippians 4:4, “REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS. AGAIN I WILL SAY, REJOICE” This is the Christian’s way to escape depres­sion. The answer is not in running from our circumstances or withdrawing from life, but in rising above them through praise. We don’t rejoice just when everything is going smoothly. Paul said we are to rejoice always. He also said “Rejoice evermore … in everything give thanks” (1 Thes. 5:16, 18, KJV). We don’t rejoice because we feel like it, but as an act of obedient faith, realizing that “in the Lord” we have grounds for confidence and rejoicing. We know that the Lord is bigger than our problems, and is working everything for our eventual good!

VI.        CONFESS OUR FAULTS TO THE LORD (1 John 1:9).

Sin can be both a cause of depression and a product of depression. Often, when we have unresolved sin in our life, it produces guilt and self­-condemnation which lead to despair. When we harbor bitterness, resent­ment, anger, ill-will, jealousy, or any other sin in our hearts, it affects us nega­tively. Often, we fall into the pit of despair because of the sin of self-pity, murmur­ing, and complaining. Sin defiles our conscience and perverts our walk. If we have been concealing our sin or failing to deal with it promptly, we need to confess our sin to the Lord and seek His cleansing power. Often, when the weight of sin is removed from our shoulders, we are released from the burden of depression.

VII.          WE MUST WATCH OUR HEALTH.

We not only have a responsibility to care for ourselves spiritually, but physically as well, because our bodies belong to the Lord (1 Cor. 6:19). When we abuse or neglect the temple of God, depression is often the consequence.           

Written by:  William R. Kimball 
Copyright © 1984 CHRISTIAN EQUIPPERS INTERNATIONAL

Single & Satisfied

Since when did the world dictate that all women had to be married by a certain age and have kids by this age?  Why do they get to dictate if you are normal or not by your marital status?

I walked into a restaurant the other day and  told the hostess, "table for 1".    She took me behind this wall where I noticed there were other single people eating as well.    I was so offended,  I told the lady that I was going to sit in the open room.  she just looked at me funny. 

There is nothing wrong with being single.  There is nothing wrong with not wanting children.  Has everyone  been brainwashed to believe that someone cannot be happy if they don't have a child or a significant other?    Yes, there are times where there is loneliness, just like in any relationship. For even Jesus was lonely at times.    Maybe I wasn't called to be a Mother or a wife.  But God has called me for a specific purpose that does not include the distractions of a family. So don't feel sorry for me.  I don't need your pity.  Do you know what God's purpose for your life is?

Who Promised That?

Are blessings we’re expecting the ones God guarantees?

Why hills? Often we act as though they don’t even exist. Indeed, sometimes when we present to people the promise of new life in Christ, we describe such smooth, level roads, that we advertise more than God promises to deliver.

We may quote verses such as Prov­erbs 3:5, 6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowl­edge Him, and He will make your paths straight,” implying to them that the life of faith will be trouble-free.

In a baptism service, I heard a new believer in his early 30s give his testi­mony: “My wife and I have had a lot of troubles in our marriage — the pres­sures of starting a new business, begin­ning our family long hours of work, and disagreements. Then my wife began coming to church. She became a Christian and a changed person. Now I have become a Christian, and our worries are over.”

This man had a wonderful salvation story. And it fits what we preach. We speak of discovering God’s wonderful plan for one’s life.

In the midst of a world that is broken and colorless, we present life in the Savior as mended and beautiful. If one confesses faith in Christ, we urge, life will come together. Then life will have meaning.

And it is true! To know Christ is to know the meaning of life. To know the Savior is to understand purpose in life. To belong to God is to validate sense in life.

But this is not the full truth. There are also the hills.

A woman next to me in that baptism service nearly snorted when she heard what the young believer said. She leaned over and whispered, “It may be that now his worries will really begin!”

The government demands that warn­ings be printed on cigarette packages. Perhaps we should add stickers on Christian tracts as well: Warning — Your new life in Christ may include many hills.

There are times when believers find their lives in shambles. They may have gained heaven but, it seems, lost earth!

We need to face reality. Christians get sick. Believers suffer financially. The righteous may be persecuted.

Even mature believers may face a crisis that is beyond their expectations. A pastor’s child may die in a car accident on the way home from a football game. A prayer-warrior’s daughter may be raped at knife point on her way home from work. A deeply committed Chris­tian may be slandered by a best friend. A missionary couple may find their mar­riage ending in divorce.

There are hills all over God’s world.

My Friend, ‘Professor K’

This happened a few years ago among the faculty at the seminary where I teach. “Professor K” had taught Greek for 40 years. He knew the Bible intimately.

He was a tall, strong man whom stu­dents affectionately called “Mr. Up-So-High.” Certainly someone with his strong jaw would not have troubles!

But he did. His wife had been an inva­lid for years. He had managed to care for her while teaching his courses and discipling his students. When his wife grew worse, he moved her to a nearby home where she had constant care.

He visited her, but he was lonely. And he hurt deeply.

I didn’t know it then, but he said goodbye to me one Friday during a lunch break in the faculty lounge. Ordi­narily, Professor K would sit ramrod straight, tie neat, jacket sharp, and fea­tures serious. That day he seemed to be slumping in his chair. He gave me an uncharacteristic, unusual smile.

That weekend I took my younger son, Bruce, to a parent-child horseman­ship camp in northern Washington. On the drive home Sunday night, with Bruce asleep in the back seat, I pon­dered Professor K’s strange smile. I decided to ask him about it.

But Monday he called in sick.  Monday night, he took his life.

Having planned out many details and leaving numerous notes, my friend end­ed his life with a gunshot to his head. That smile was his goodbye. Only after­ward did I understand.

I cannot relate the shock that his death caused in our seminary communi­ty and in our church. Godly, seasoned, learned men do not sink to such levels of depression!

But Professor K did just that.  It can happen to anyone.  So why did God make hills when He has made so many promises?

No Promises

The fact is, God makes no promises that once people come to faith in Jesus Christ there will be no trouble in their lives.

The promises that God makes are not like the promises we sometimes make in His name.

A new believer may sing, “Zip-A­-Dee-Doo-Dah,” in the first days of faith, just as a bride and groom may find inde­scribable rapture in the freshness of their love. But new believers, like the newly married, finally enter life as it is. And hills face both.

Blows may come into the believer’s life, as they did in the life of Job, be­cause of the working of the enemy. Troubles may come into the believer’s life, as they did in the life of Abraham, because of divine testing. Persecution may come into the believer’s life, as they did in the lives of the apostles, for mysterious reasons caught up in the glory of Christ.

Preachers who proclaim that the Christian life is a smooth path may not only be misrepresenting life as it is, but also may be distorting the purpose of God in the lives of His people.

Only in America would we trivialize the gospel in this manner. I doubt if be­lievers in Romania, China, or Albania peddle a gospel of ease and comfort.

Rather, in these countries, the gos­pel is presented as it is: new life in Christ in spite of the context of earthly circumstances.

People need to know these things as they enter the world of faith. Coming to Christ is coming to God. Coming to Christ is coming to forgiveness from sin. Coming to Christ is God’s promise of heaven. Coming to Christ is wonder­ful! But coming to Christ does not mean a path without hills.

The promises of God to His people are not for health and wealth, but for His presence and comfort.

The promises of God are not for free­dom from pain, but for an ultimate meaning that defies analogy.

The promises of God are not for a life of unending pleasure, but for eternal life in the presence of the Savior.

Some Christians do live lives of con­tentment, prosperity, and significance. They have great reason to be grateful.

But not all believers live that way, and not simply because they lack the faith to claim better things.

Not even the Savior was free from pain.  Not even the Savior lived in ease.  Not even the Savior claimed prom­ises that God has not made.

The Guarantees?

Perhaps you recall the Proverb that seems to promise a blissful long life:

“My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life and peace they will add to you” (Prov. 3:1, 2 NKJV).

These verses seem to present a guarantee or a contract, if you will, for a fulfilled life. If the believer does his part, this text seems to promise that God will do His part to provide health, wealth, and happiness.

The issue is that the Proverbs do not present promises. They are proverbs! They are generalizations, not guaran­tees. In the ordinary course of things, there are certain expectations that fol­low certain actions. The proverbs pres­ent the basic patterns in the world that God has made.

One who sows wheat, expects to reap wheat. Yet any farmer knows that just because he has sown a certain seed, this does not mean he will auto­matically reap the crop. He will not find rutabagas, but he may not get wheat ei­ther. There may be drought, disease, or disaster that will not allow him to reap anything at all.  So it is with life.

If there were ever any person who fulfilled entirely the demands of Proverbs 3:1, 2, certainly this would be Jesus the Savior.

None kept the law of God as He did. None has ever ob­served the com­mandments of the Father as Jesus did.  But His life was cut off in the midst of His years.  He did not enjoy peace, but constant struggle.  He had no wealth. His only possession was His garment, something that His executioners cast dice to obtain.

If Proverbs 3:1, 2 is an automatic prom­ise of God on a faith­ful life, it was a promise broken in the life of the Savior.

The point is, God does not make promises for our life in terms of ease and outer contentment. The proverbs are not promises, merely proverbs. That is, they are the general expecta­tion in ordinary times. We need to know what the general expectations are. But we also need to know that there may still be hills.

God is free to do the most unusual things in extraordinary times.

This is why He made hills.

The promises of God are for the spir­it.  The promises of God are for eternity.  The promises of God are wrapped in His wisdom, caught in His wonder, bound in His pleasure.

And the work of God is done in His time.

Silly Questions

Why did God make hills?

After stopping alongside the road on the way to the retreat, I was ready for the next big push. I had gotten my breath under control. I had taken an­other sip from the water bottle. I had prayed again for strength to continue.

But before I pedaled off, I looked again at the one across the fence and asked her, “Why did God make hills?”

She still hadn’t answered. I hadn’t really expected much. If you are going to ask a silly question, you might do as I did. I’d been speaking to a cow.

God made the hills because He is God.

We can fight the hills. We can curse them. We may try to ignore them. Or fi­nally, with biblical faith, we may ask for renewed strength to surmount them.

God has made the hills. In the same way, they are a part of His glory.

Dr. Allen is professor of Hebrew Scripture at Western Baptist Seminary in Portland, Ore.

MOODY, July/August 1991, pp. 16, 17.

Peace, I Give You

     You would think that people would be so happy and satisfied now that Marijuana use has been legalized in some states.  But just ask Denver of the problems its having ever since it legalized it.(1)  Or how about promiscuity with  teenagers. Children having babies.  It seems that no matter how hard we try to solve a problem in our culture, it just seems to be getting worse.  The suicide rate in the Military alone is enough for alarm.(2)  But even your average person is having trouble coping with life in today's fast paced world.  Many people are depressed, bored and lonely.(3)  Experimenting in empty activities  in order to try to fill a void in their lives.   Is it no wonder that Philosophy is becoming the Major of choice for College students?  The leaders of tomorrow are searching for answers to life's problems.(4)  Is there a solution? Can there really be peace in today's world?  I believe the answer  is yes!  Even in the midst of tremendous chaos and stress, I truly believe you can find peace in any circumstance life throws at you.  That peace and contentment can only come from "the Source" for which peace and contentment was established.  Jesus Christ.

     Through out the centuries, we can see how many people's lives have been changed through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The 12 Apostles.  Mary Magdalene the prostitute.  Even she found peace.  She was a changed woman! Jesus says in John 14:27  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. 
     As one Pastor I heard once said, "The god of this world is in conflict with the God of the Universe!"  So if you're looking for things of this world to satisfy you, your in for a life of apathy.   No "Still Waters".  No  "Peace that surpasses all understanding".  The world cannot offer you what it does not have itself.  Jesus said, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him." (Revelation 1:20)
     Which do you prefer?  A life of uncertainty and chaos?  Or a life of peace and contentment in any kind of circumstance?  





Index

1. Denver Drug Agent:  Our Problems have exploded with Pot Legalization   http://cbsloc.al/UW0TI0
2.  Military Suicide Climb Far Higher than Reported  http://bit.ly/112DacT
3.  Suicide Rate Increases Sharply in US  http://nyti.ms/10uYPVN
4.  Study of Philosophy makes gains despite Economy http://bit.ly/qP8alh

Memorial Day 2013

In Remembrance: 

Today is Memorial Day.    There is nothing happy about it.  Its not a day to have fun.  Its a day of remembrance.  Some people get Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Services day confused.  There is a difference. Memorial Day is a day to remember U.S. service members who have died during war. Veterans Day is a day to recognize & honor those who served in war.  Armed Services day is a day of recognizing those who volunteered to serve to protect our Country.


 Frank Salgado Jr. *Korean War* Sgt Salgado, although wounded, continued to direct fire on the enemy. Preventing the enemy forces from breaking through Company F perimeters. He died of his wounds on Sept.8,1950. He was awarded the Silver Star for his gallant & conspicuous courage. #MemorialDay #GreatUncle #InRemembrance

Memorial Day History

The Political Vortex

     Politics has taken over every facet of our society.  One side blames the other and the cycle continues.  Often times, people who want to do the right thing, get caught up in the game that is played, after a while, they don't realize that they are being sucked in to this vortex, and eventually lose perspective of the main reason for getting involved.  You have two sides blaming the other for the ills of the country, when the real culprit is sitting back watching the two bicker like little children.  I've said it once and I'll keep saying it again.  History is repeating itself.  I just saw a documentary on the Dust Bowl.  Some of you don't even know what that was, and most of us weren't even alive at the time.
     I believe America is going through another Dust Bowl.  No, I don't mean literally.  The same scenarios are being presented in which a group of people are in need of survival (unemployed), they feel like there is no hope(jobs).  The Federal Government blames the people for creating their own doom (Back then, the government blamed the farmers' style of cropping.  today its because some make too much money), gives the people an ultimatum(Federal Compliance), and then takes control of their lives (Car, Health, Education, Insurance, Bank, Financial Aid,Environmental, Agriculture, Energy, Currency,  Homestead Industries).  Back then, it was FDR who told the people that if they gave up farming, Government would help them. The people knew that Government was not the solution, but they had nowhere else to go.  The Feds came in, made green lands out of the farmers' lands and proclaimed that the problem was solved.  After nearly a decade, lo and behold, its starts raining on the day FDR visits the drought areas.  He takes the credit for saving families and also takes credit for it raining!  Never solving the initial problem, just providing a band aid  that after time, became a serious addiction amongst people.
     Fast forward to 2013 and are we not seeing the same thing? We have relied on the government to solve every problem that comes along, that we have forgotten how to think for ourselves.  Since when is it Governments responsibility to do this?  I see this country is not getting better, its getting worse.  Those who say otherwise are fooling themselves and you.  Because for the first time, we have more people relying on Government to solve their problems.  Meanwhile,  as the two party system continue in their bickering, the "system" is becoming a giant of a monster!



"The Dust Bowl" by Ken Burns 
Pt. 1  http://youtu.be/JJ7FvFKQPCE
Pt. 2  http://youtu.be/oobvk-uAk5A
Pt. 3  http://youtu.be/7AGHAbq9-0I
Pt. 4  http://youtu.be/3PMMcZVravM
Pt. 5  http://youtu.be/hqdCHumGpV4

Change

On today's blog, I thought I would write about something a little bit different than  usual.
     As some of you know I have been on a new diet and exercise regimen, trying to lose weight.  I've come a long way from that time when I used to be fit and active in sports and exercise.  A lot has happened in my life since then that has made me become more reserved and cautious about life in general, and in doing so, became very sedentary.  I had stopped exercising and being active, to just being content to stay home and do nothing.  A lot of that had to do with the death of my dad.  I stayed cooped up in my house because everything that meant a lot to me didn't seem as interesting any more.  I finally woke up and realized that life was passing me by.  I had gained so much weight and made so many poor choices in my life  that I felt stuck.  Until I came across this book (48 Days to the work you love), and it opened up a way of thinking that I hadn't had since I was younger. Even though It's taking me longer than 48 days, I believe I'm on the right track in my life.  Not only am I getting back on track "career" wise, but I've also decided it was time to get back into shape.  It seems to be a bit harder to do this time around.  It's much easier just to pop a pill in your mouth and watch the pounds come off, but that didn't happen. I was always hoping someone would find the magic solution to weight loss without any consequences.  It's funny how a life threatening event in your life will cause someone to take action.  For me, it was chest pains and border line high cholesterol and hypertension.  I've seen how others are dependent on pills for all kinds of ailments, and I didn't want that for myself. So I was up one night and I saw this infomercial about this new exercise routine p90x on DVD.  I ordered it thinking, "Ok, this is a start,  I'm really going to do it this time." I've ordered other exercise programs in the past, but with no success.  "I'm going to change my life by getting in shape first" I thought.   But I was struggling with it and I quit.   Then I met someone on social media who saw that I had an interest in getting fit and we started talking.  I told him I was struggling to workout so he suggested I try Shakeology  to give me a boost in energy and better mood. "I can do that", I thought.  "It's a money back guarantee."  "What do I have to lose?"  So I ordered it and I was pleasantly surprised.  It tasted really good! Pretty soon, I found myself cutting back on a lot of the snacks and carbohydrates  that I was eating before.  I kept on drinking Shakeology and I just felt better!  I had more energy and  mental clarity.  And my mood was uplifted.  I wasn't grumpy all the time.  I'm also eating organically healthy.  I have lost 30 lbs and am feeling very good about my future.  Everyone's talking about change you can believe in, well, I believe in this change I'm experiencing.  This year I'm going to change my life.  Even If I have to go it alone, I HAVE TO get in shape!"  No more wishing.  No more Hoping.  This is my top priority!  Since January of 2013 I got out of my comfort zone and entered the Beachbody Challenge and my workouts consist of doing Les Mills Combat  at least 5  times a week and drinking Shakeology every single day and I love IT!   I still have a ways to go, and I still struggle at times,  but now instead of quitting,  I look at why I failed, learn from it and move forward.  You know, there's a saying that goes, "Without change, nothing changes." I have been learning and enjoying the process of changing myself not only physically, but mentally as well.  It starts with that choice to want a better life for yourself.  For me, it was  time to stop talking about it and take action.  If you feel like your stuck in life as well, I'd like to hear from you.  If you need an accountability partner in your fitness, I will be that person!  I have been there, and I would like to help you.  But you must want that change first.  Are you ready for a change? 

The Fall of Man

1Timothy 3:1-7  1 But realize this, that in the last days difficult time will come.  2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, 4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God;  5 holding to a form of godliness although they have denied its power; and avoid such men as these.  6 For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses; 7 always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.


  This world has lost it's soul.  There are no more words to say about the shocking headlines in today's news.  People have let themselves be taken over to depraved minds.  There is no trying to understand some people.  Some are just pure evil. Controlled by Satan himself!  I don't understand how you can look at a live human baby, stab the neck and suck the brains out of him/her.  I don't understand how you would let a baby still alive after a botched abortion, battling to stay alive in a toilet and make jokes about the whole scene like if it was something to laugh about.http://www.lifenews.com/  I don't care if its a human baby or a kitten or a puppy.  Life is life.  Unless your heart is so seared as to take someone's life, then you should give up yours.    Now I'm not saying human life and animal life are equal. They are not!   I am saying they should all be respected.  We have an over population of cats and dogs on the streets because the people who were suppose to provide and take care of them as pets ignored their responsibilities and now they are running the streets in danger.  http://www.barriodogs.org/adopt.html (I just witnessed a puppy's face get squashed in the street because of this)   This causes diseases to spread.  Just like parents who neglect their kids and leave them on the streets to fend for themselves while they are out getting high or living it up at some bar!  I'm sick of hearing about this!  That child is going to grow up not having any sense of normalcy in life.  Always looking for security in life.  Or the Cattle, Horses, Chickens, Dolphins, Elephants, etc that are slaughtered indignantly for the sake of the almighty dollar!  Just like the millions of aborted babies that are killed and thrown in the trash without any regard.    People setting bombs in front of people just for sake of satisfaction?  http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/04/18/boston-bombing-marathon-investigation-fbi/2093037/  The Bible states that without God stepping in to save humankind,  man would destroy one another.  The world is not getting better.  Its getting worse.  We are seeing the manifestations of this.  What kind of world are we living in when peoples hearts are so hardened by sin that they do not see life as sacred? 

The Battle for Texas

     The line has been drawn.  The plan is in action.  They're coming for Texas!  In an effort to curtail the success of a Republican dominated state, Democrats are trying to build a movement that hopes to bring Texas back to a blue state once and for all. The name of the movement is called "Battleground Texas", and they just held a meeting here in Houston yesterday.  Everyone knows that Texas is one of a handful of states producing much of the country's economy by producing jobs and staying in the black with a balanced budget. So why on earth would anyone want to change it into a Democratic state if most Democrat states are in the red, stifling companies  with over regulations and entitlements?  http://usatoday30.usatoday.com  /news/nation/story/2012-09-26/red-blue-states-income-economy/57846600/1  For goodness sake, one only has to look within Texas itself to see the blue controlled city governments and see that logic does not work.  Unless it's for another reason.  I would pay very close attention to this group Texans.  I'm sure you can all see the writing on the wall on this one.

Democracy in America

     People are up in arms with the Government  because of gun control, but are alright with them legislating morality with "gay marriage".   Teaching Christian principles in schools is forbidden, dismissing all aspects of America's foundation, but Marxism is alright. Aborting children is just fine, but shooting them in a school is reprehensible!  When does the hypocrisy end?  Define domestic partner?  Would a 30 year old who cares for a parent at home get the same benefits as a married couple if legislation is passed legalizing gay unions as "marriage"? After all, we are talking about love.  A child loves his parents. Would he get his father's pension?  If not, why not?  Who's to say how far we can take this?  Oh that's right, Government.  After all, they are setting the moral compass of the land.  Do you see how dangerous we have come as a society?  If its governments job to legislate morality, then we have lost our Republic.  "We the People" are no longer free.

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Is the Bible the Word of God?

Many people experience great difficulty in believing that the Bible is actually the Word of God. Some individuals entertain sincere doubts concerning its divine authenticity, accuracy, and reliability. This is a common dilemma which not only affects most unbelievers, but many Christians have struggled with this issue as well. Many reject the Christian argument that the Bible is the inspired Word of God on the grounds that this claim is simplistic, shallow, and intellectually unconvincing. For this reason, many non-Christians demand more substantial proof.

WHAT IS MEANT WHEN WE SAY THAT THE BIBLE IS THE WORD OF GOD? This simply means that the Bible is the divinely inspired and infallible revelation of God to man, rather than the mere words of men to other men. When we say the Bible is the Word of God, we do not mean that all the words are God’s words. Some are the words of men, angels, demons, and even Satan. However, it is in its entirety the Word of God in the sense that God, through the agency of the Holy Spirit, divinely directed and inspired the writing of it and supernaturally controlled its overall construction, design, and recording of contents. In other words, it is not the product of human devising, manipulation, or imagination, but God was the author and architect behind its creation from beginning to end.

WHY DO PEOPLE REJECT THE BIBLE? For a variety of reasons, many remain skeptical and unconvinced concerning claims about the Bible’s trustworthiness and divine authorship. Some of the questions raised regarding the Bible are, on the surface, both reasonable and justifiable, while others are based upon willful ignorance and blind opposition. Many reject the Bible as the Word of God without even examining the facts. Some harbor deep reservations about the Bible because they have not been confronted with sufficient proofs to the contrary. Some reject its divine authorship, without sacrificing a measure of respect for the Bible, as a noble piece of ancient literature or a great religious masterpiece. Still others challenge the Bible’s reliability on superficial grounds. Their opposition is often based on well-worn arguments, sweeping generalizations, mindless objections, and preconceived prejudices rather than the sound foundation of reason, truth, and reality.

An absolutely essential requirement for those examining this booklet is an attitude of openness and intellectual integrity. If a person approaches this issue with a mental mindset which obstinately refuses to honestly consider the proofs presented in defense of the Bible, he will be wasting his time. Though we must respect the mental reservations a person may have, a person must seriously challenge any bias against the Bible which is not based upon reason or a careful examination of the facts. If a person will review the proofs presented with an open and intellectually honest attitude, he will see that the evidence in support of the Bible’s accuracy is overwhelming and conclusive. We will examine 16 major reasons for accepting the Bible’s reliability and divine authorship on the following pages.

1) THE ULTIMATE GROUNDS FOR ACCEPTANCE. It is one thing to dogmatically contend that the Bible is the Word of God. We can even substantiate this claim with many convincing arguments. However, all of our proofs amount to nothing apart from a faith response. The Bible is a book which must ultimately be accepted by faith – not just passive mental agreement. Being intellectually persuaded alone is insufficient grounds for allowing the Word of God to truly profit a person’s life. The Bible even declares that, “the word… did not profit them, not being mixed with faith” (Heb.4:2). Many powerful proofs can be mustered in defense of the Bible, but a person must ultimately come to a place of responsive faith in the Bible, its message, and its author. Though the following proofs can help stimulate intellectual confidence in the Bible, a person must exercise a rational faith which acts upon logical facts presented in order for the Word of God to have its intended effect upon his life.

2) THE UNITY OF THE BIBLE. The overall unity of the Bible gives strong support to its divine origin. What makes the issue of unity so significant is the fact that the Bible is such a complex book involving many diverse factors. The Bible contains an amazing continuity of message in spite of the fact that it contains many complex ingredients: 1) It was written over a 1600 year period, covering 60 generations. 2) Over 40 authors were involved in its final composition, each from a variety of cultural and occupational backgrounds. These included kings, peasants, a fisherman, a tax collector, a rabbi, philosophers, statesmen, scholars, poets, a doctor, a shepherd, and a general. 3) It was written from many different locations, under a variety of conditions, from three different continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe). 4) It was written in three major languages including Hebrew, Chaldee, and Greek. 5) It covers hundreds of controversial subjects, and involves a variety of literary styles including history, poetry, law, prophecy, and biographies. Yet in spite of this multitude of contributing factors, the Bible is a single, unfolding theme concerning God’s redemptive plan for mankind. A unity of such scope and magnitude gives strong, silent testimony to its divine authorship and design. No other religious work on earth can equal such an accomplishment. To illustrate the significance of this fact, a test was proposed¹ which would involve ten authors, all from one walk of life, one generation, one place, one time, one mood, one continent, one language, and just one controversial subject to see whether they would totally agree! The inevitable result would be a hodgepodge of conflicting opinions and perspectives. Yet the Bible is a harmonious book covering many complex and controversial subjects. This fact points to an all-knowing, all-powerful God behind its construction and composition.

¹ Josh McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict, pp. 19, 20.

3) THE BIBLE’S INDESTRUCTIBILITY. The indestructible character of the Bible gives strong support to its divine preservation. The Bible has weathered the test of time and has successfully withstood the repeated attacks of atheistic philosophies, higher criticism, modernists, liberal theologians, rationalists, humanists, scientific skepticism, Communists, and every conceivable brand of critic. In spite of the determined and aggressive assaults against the Bible, it has not only survived, but has consistently triumphed over all its enemies. In fact, the Bible has been likened to an anvil which has worn out the hammers of countless opponents.¹ For example, during the 18th century, Voltaire confidently boasted of the eventual extinction of Christianity and the Bible. However, only fifty years after his death, the Geneva Bible Society used his press and house to produce countless Bibles.²

¹ H.L. Hastings, cited by John W. Lea, The Greatest Book in the World, pp. 17,18. ² Norman L. Geisler, A General Introduction to the Bible, pp. 123,124.

4) ITS ENDURING POPULARITY. Not only has the Bible remained invincible against the repeated attacks of its critics, but its appeal has not been diminished by either time or persecution. The Bible still remains the all-time best seller of human history. No other book can compare to the Bible’s appeal. The Bible was the first major book printed by Johannes Gutenburg’s press in 1456. Since that time, over 7 billion copies have been printed. No other book has come close to matching its popularity and circulation. According to statistics compiled by the United Bible Society, 6,562,911,347 Bibles had been distributed worldwide as of 1984. The Bible had been translated in its entirety or in part, into 1,808 languages or dialects. The Bible’s enduring popularity among countless millions testifies of the universal reverence and respect which it deserves as the inspired, authoritative Word of God. “After 1,900 years, the Bible is still loved by millions, read by millions, and studied by millions.”²

¹ Encyclopedia Britanica, Vol. 3, p. 588. ²Bernard Ramm, Protestant Christian Evidences, pp. 232, 233.

5) THE TESTIMONY OF GREAT MEN AND WOMEN. Another contributing support for the Bible’s authority and divine authorship centers upon the testimony of great historical figures who staked their reputation and sacred honor upon the absolute reliability and accuracy of the Bible:

Abraham Lincoln – “I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book.”

George Washington – “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”

Patrick Henry – “The Bible is worth all other books which have ever been printed.”

Andrew Jackson – “That book, sir, is the rock on what our republic rests.”

Queen Victoria – “That book accounts for the supremacy of England.”

Charles Dickens – “The New Testament is the very best that ever was or ever will be known in the world.”

Sir Isaac Newton – “There are more sure marks of authenticity in the Bible than in any profane history.”

Immanuel Kant – “The existence of the Bible, as a book for the people, is the greatest benefit which the human race has ever experienced. Every attempt to belittle it is a crime against humanity.”

Thomas Huxley – “The Bible has been the Magna Charta of the poor and oppressed. The human race is not in a position to dispense with it.”

Theodore Roosevelt – “If a man is not familiar with the Bible, he has suffered a loss which he had better make all possible haste to correct.”

Napoleon – “The Bible is no mere book, but a living creature, with a power that conquers all that oppose it.”

Sir William Herschel – “All human discoveries seem to be made only for the purpose of confirming more and more strongly the truths contained in the sacred scriptures.”

Woodrow Wilson – “When you have read the Bible, you will know it is the Word of God, because you will have found it the key to your own heart, your own happiness, and your own duty.”

6) ACCURACY OF THE MANUSCRIPTS.  The manuscript evidence supporting the Bible’s accuracy is overwhelming. There are over 5,400 Greek manuscripts of the New Testament, over 10,000 of the Latin Vulgate, and at least 9,300 other early versions. A total of over 24,000 manuscript copies or portions of the New Testament are in existence today. Compared to other ancient writings such as Homer’s Iliad or Caesar’s Gallic Wars, the Bible has more manuscript evidence supporting its reliability and accuracy of translation than any ten pieces of ancient literature combined!¹ So conclusive is the evidence supporting this fact that one prominent scholar noted, “To be skeptical of the resultant text of the New Testament books is to allow all of classical antiquity to slip into obscurity, for no documents of the ancient period are as well attested bibliographically as the New Testament.”² The exacting accuracy of manuscript translation, as well as the massive amount of manuscript material in existence, gives strong support to its divine authorship and preservation.

¹ Josh McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict, pp. 19, 39-46. ² John W. Montgomery, History and Christianity, p. 29.

7) SCIENTIFIC ACCURACY. The steady progress of science has not undermined the Bible’s accuracy. Not a single scientific fact or discovery has ever disproven a biblical statement!¹ In fact, the advances of science have repeatedly confirmed the scriptures’ accuracy. For example, the Bible revealed that the earth was round nearly 2,200 years before 15th century explorers discovered that the world wasn’t flat after all (Isa. 40:22). The Hebrew word for “circle” in this verse actually means “sphericity” or “roundness”. Before the invention of the telescope, Ptolemy established the number of stars at 1,056; Tycho Brahe figured 777; and Kepler counted 1,005.² These figures seem foolish to 20^th century man, but in 600 B.C. the prophet Jeremiah revealed that the number of stars was innumerable when he wrote, “the hosts (stars) of heaven cannot be numbered” (Jer. 33:22). ¹ Creation Research Center, San Diego, CA ² Henry Morris, That You Might Believe, p. 18.

8) THE FULFILLMENT OF BIBLICAL PROPHECY. Another pivotal proof supporting the accuracy and divine authorship of the Bible centers upon the issue of prophetic fulfillment. The Bible is saturated with specific prophecies concerning nations, cities, historic events, and individuals. But what lends such overwhelming credibility to the divine origin of these prophecies is the fact that hundreds have been literally fulfilled in the most minute detail. In fact, so convincing is the proof that God Himself established the issue of prophetic fulfillment as a legitimate test of divine authorship and authenticity (Isa. 41:21-23,26). A classic example of the many remarkable fulfillments which could be cited¹ involves the 6th century B.C. prediction of the overthrow of the city of Tyre (Ezekiel 26). Seven specific things were predicted, each of which was literally fulfilled to the letter during the 4th century B.C. The mathematical probability of this happening has been calculated to equal 1 in 75,000,000.^{2  1} Josh McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict, pp. 284-331. ² Peter Stoner, Science Speaks, p. 60. Probably the most amazing series of prophetic fulfillments involves the multitude of Messianic predictions concerning Christ. The Old Testament contains 332 specific prophecies which were literally fulfilled by Christ.¹ This fact not only establishes His divine credentials, but substantiates the divine authorship of the Bible as well. The following are 27 selected examples of over 300 distinct prophecies relating to Christ: born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2/Lk. 2:4-7); born of the tribe of Judah (Gen. 49:10/Lk. 3:23,33); born of a virgin (Isa. 7:14/Matt. 1:18,24,25); referred to as Immanuel (Isa. 7:14/Matt. 1:23); He would be a king (Psa. 2:6/Matt. 27:37); He would be preceded by a messenger (Isa. 40:3/Matt. 3:1,2); entered Jerusalem on a donkey (Zech. 9:9/Lk. 19:35-37a); rejected by His own people (Isa. 53:3/John 7:5,48); betrayed by a friend (Psa. 41:9/Matt. 10:4); betrayed for 30 pieces of silver (Zech. 11:12/Matt. 26:15); silver thrown into temple (Zech. 11:13b/Matt. 27:5a); money used to purchase a potter’s field (Zech. 11:3b/Matt. 27:7); forsaken by His disciples (Zech. 13:7/Mk. 14:50); wounded and bruised (Isa. 53:5/Matt. 27:26); smitten and spit upon (Isa. 50:6/Matt. 26:67); mocked (Psa. 20:7,8/Matt. 27:31); didn’t answer His accusers (Isa. 53:7/Matt. 27:12-19); hands and feet pierced (Psa. 22:16/Lk. 23:33); crucified with thieves (Isa. 53:12/Matt. 27:38); made intercession for His persecutors (Isa. 53:12/Lk. 23:34); lots cast for His garments (Psa. 22:18/Jn. 19:23,24); given gall and vinegar to drink (Psa. 69:21/Matt. 27:34); bones weren’t broken (Psa. 34:20/Jn. 19:33); His side pierced (Zech. 12:10/Jn. 19:34); buried in a rich man’s tomb (Isa. 53:9/Matt. 27:57-60); ascended to God (Psa. 68:18/Acts 1:9).

¹ Floyd Hamilton, The Basis of Christian Faith, p. 160.

9) THE LAW OF COMPOUND PROBABILITIES. Simply stated, the law of compound probabilities is a mathematical law which can be used to calculate the probability of a specific set of conditions, requirements, or qualifications being fulfilled. Professor Peter W. Stoner used this law to determine the odds of a certain proscribed number of biblical prophecies relating to Christ being fulfilled.¹ His findings were carefully evaluated by the American Scientific Affiliation and found to be sound and convincing.² His findings rule out coincidence, chance, or human manipulation in the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Stoner started by calculating the probability of one lone individual precisely fulfilling only eight prophecies relating to Christ. He computed the odds at 1 in 10¹⁷. This is the same as 1 followed by 17 zeros. This would be the equivalent of covering the entire state of Texas 2 feet deep in silver dollars, specially marking one of them, and instructing a blindfolded man to pick the right silver dollar on the first try. Dr. Stoner then computed the odds of one individual fulfilling just 16 prophecies relating to Christ. He calculated the odds at 1 x 10⁴⁵ power, or 1 followed by 45 zeros. The sun is 93 million miles from earth. However, if you had this many silver dollars, you could build a stellar ball which would extend 20 times farther than the sun. The probability of one individual fulfilling just 16 prophecies would be the equivalent of specially marking just one silver dollar in that massive ball, blindfolding a man, and instructing him to successfully pick the right silver dollar on the first try! Stoner further calculated 48 prophecies at 1 x 10¹⁵⁷. This figure is astronomical and beyond human comprehension, but Christ fulfilled over 300 distinct prophecies! These calculations prove the divine authorship of the scriptures beyond any reasonable or conceivable shadow of doubt.

¹ Peter W. Stoner, Science Speaks. ² H. Harold Hartzler, American Scientific Affiliation.

10) THE CONTRIBUTION OF ARCHEOLOGY. Archaeological research over the last two centuries has provided overwhelming support for the Bible’s accuracy. In spite of repeated attempts by critics to discredit its contents, archaeology has consistently verified the absolute reliability of biblical accounts, references, and chronologies. A wealth of evidence has been unearthed to conclusively prove the trustworthiness of biblical data concerning its references to historical figures, the existence of civilizations and cities, and the accuracy of details and information associated with specific incidents. So irrefutable is the evidence that one renowned archaeologist stated that, “It may be stated categorically that no archaeological discovery has ever controverted (contradicted) a biblical reference.”¹ This fact gives unquestionable support to the Bible.

¹ Nelson Glueck, Rivers in the Desert, p.31.

11) HISTORICAL ACCURACY ACCORDING TO CHRIST. Another important pillar supporting the Bible’s infallibility centers upon the testimony of Christ. In spite of numerous attempts by skeptics to ridicule its contents and rationalize away its miraculous accounts as being nothing more than a collection of myths, folklore, and fanciful allegories, Jesus repeatedly confirmed its historic accuracy. Jesus consistently placed His divine seal of approval upon the Bible’s contents by verifying such accounts as the creation of man (Matt. 19:4,5), the murder of Abel (Matt. 23:35), Noah and the flood (Matt. 24:37-39), the destruction of Sodom and the turning of Lot’s wife into a pillar of salt (Lk. 17:28-31), the existence of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob (Matt. 8:11), King David (Matt. 12:3), and Elijah the prophet (Lk. 4:25), the miraculous provisions of manna (Jn. 6:49), and the reality of Jonah the prophet (Matt. 12:40). Not only has secular research proven the Bible’s historic accuracy, but Christ’s endorsement also lends powerful support.

12) SACRIFICE OF MILLIONS. Another significant support of the Bible’s divine authenticity is the fact that countless millions of Christians have laid down their lives in defense of it. Christians have suffered martyrdom, mutilation, torture, imprisonment, banishment, and confiscation of properties because of their firm belief that the Bible is the only inspired Word of God. Christians have sacrificed everything considered most precious and dear in this world for their convictions concerning the Bible’s reliability. For example, William Tyndale was strangled and burned to death in 1536 because he translated the Bible into the language of the common man. John Hus was burned at the stake in 1415 because he taught that the Bible was the only inspired and reliable message from God to mankind. These individuals represent the plight of millions who have willingly surrendered their lives for the absolute conviction that the Bible is the inspired Word of God.

13) ITS TRANSFORMING POWER. One of the most profound proofs of the Bible’s divine authorship centers upon its dynamic, life-changing impact upon the lives of men and women, the course of history, and the destiny of nations. The Bible’s power is timeless and universal. Its transforming effect transcends every conceivable boundary. It has produced the same revolutionary effect upon the lives of individuals world-wide, in spite of their sex, age, nationality, ethnic origin, cultural heritage, social standing, occupation, intellectual attainment, religious background, or environment. Hundreds of millions of “born-again” Christians can testify of the transforming reality of the Word of God. Their lives are living proof that the Bible not only changes a man outwardly, but produces a radical, inner transformation of the heart, mind, and soul. Their lives confirm the fact that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new” (2 Cor. 5:17). The Word of God doesn’t just change a man superficially. It changes his entire life. The witness of hundreds of millions to the reality of this fact provides strong evidence of the Bible’s divine nature, power, and authority.

14) THE TESTIMONY OF CHRIST. One of the most powerful proofs that the Bible is the inspired Word of God rests on the infallible testimony of Jesus Christ – the living, incarnate, Word of God (Jn. 1:1). Christ personally endorsed the reliability of the Bible. In so doing, He put His divine stamp of acceptance and approval on its source of inspiration, its message, and its infallibility. The issue of the Bible’s trustworthiness was so important to Jesus that He repeatedly stressed that God was its author and that its contents were absolutely accurate, factual, and authoritative. His unqualified support for it is proven by the fact that He repeatedly taught from it, quoted it, and referred to its reliability. This reality is substantiated by the following passages: Matt. 4:1-10; 5:18; 24:35; Mk. 7:9-13; Lk. 24:44-45; Jn. 1:1-18; 10:35; 17:17. Not only did Christ directly refer to the scriptures as “the word of God” (Mk. 7:13; Matt. 4:4), but He intimately linked the written Word to Himself: “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself” (Lk. 24:27). “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me” (Jn. 5:39). On the basis of Christ’s infallibility, we believe that the Bible is equally infallible. A rejection of Christ’s credibility amounts to a rejection of Christ. A denial of His claims concerning the Bible’s dependability is tantamount to making Christ a liar and a deceiver. In essence, a rejection of the written Word is the equivalent of rejecting Jesus Christ, the living Word – for they are the same! (Jn. 1:1).

15) THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST. One of the most forceful arguments for accepting the Bible as the Word of God is because Jesus said so! But what gives such impressive clout to His words is the reality of His resurrection from the dead. His resurrection confirms that Jesus is who He claimed to be, and His statements regarding the scriptures’ inspiration are reliable. The historical fact of the resurrection can be substantiated by “many infallible proofs” (Acts 1:3). The enormous weight of evidence in favor of this reality is overwhelming!¹ For example, the post-resurrection appearance of Christ was verified by over 500 eyewitnesses (1 Cor. 15:6) who touched Him, spoke with Him, and ate with Him. The number, circumstances, and variety of appearances provide strong evidence that the resurrection was not a figment of the imagination, an elaborate hoax, hallucination, or cleverly manipulated plot. ¹ Josh McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict, pp.179-260.  Furthermore, the high moral character and integrity of those witnesses is beyond reproach, and many were executed for their unwavering defense of the resurrection of Christ. The evidence pertaining to the historic reality of the resurrection is absolutely conclusive. As one noted scholar confirmed, “I have been used for many years to study the histories of other times, and to examine and weigh the evidence of those who have written about them, and I know of no one fact in the history of mankind which is proven by better and fuller evidence of every sort, to the understanding of a fair inquirer, than that great sign which God hath given us that Christ died and rose again from the dead.”¹ The resurrection places an infallible stamp of authority upon Christ and His claims concerning the divine authorship of the Bible. No other religion, religious figure, or religious writing can claim this support. As one writer concluded, “Confucius’ tomb – occupied, Buddha’s tomb – occupied, Mohammed’s tomb – occupied, Jesus’ tomb – empty.”² This fact is what makes Christ and the Bible the only Word of God!

¹ Thomas Arnold, cited by Wilbur M. Smith, Therefore Stand: Christian Apologetics, pp. 425, 426. ² G.B. Hardy, Countdown.

16) THE SELF-WITNESS OF SCRIPTURE. The Bible makes some very strong claims concerning its divine source of authorship, inspiration, and content. It confirms that God is both the architect and author of its contents. It gives unqualified support for the fact that God was in absolute control of its composition, as well as the sole source of its inspiration. It also guarantees the enduring purity and reliability of its contents and emphasizes that it was not contaminated, adulterated, or altered by human contact. Furthermore, it not only specifies that God inspired the messengers used in writing the Word, but it stresses that the message itself is divinely inspired. These facts are emphasized by the following passages: “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet.1:20,21). “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” (Matt. 24:35; see also Psalms 119:152; Matt. 5:18; 1 Pet. 1:25). What is more, in over 3,800 instances in the Old Testament alone, the divine source of authorship is referred to with such descriptive phrases as: “God spoke to...”, “The word of the Lord came unto...”, or “The spirit of the Lord spoke...”¹

¹ Carl G. Johnson, “So the Bible is full of Contradictions”, pp.115, 116.

CONCLUSION. We have carefully examined the supporting evidence concerning the Bible’s divine authorship and accuracy. The evidence is conclusive and overwhelming. The facts forcefully substantiate the Bible’s trustworthiness, accuracy, and divine source of inspiration. Faced with such a massive arsenal of support, the burden of proof does not rest upon the shoulders of Christians to prove the Bible’s reliability, but upon the shoulders of doubters in disproving it. The sheer weight of evidence should lead the sincere skeptic to the inevitable conclusion that the Bible is indeed the Word of God. However, it is not enough to just be intellectually converted. Our ultimate response to the Bible, its author, and its message must be more than mere passive mental agreement. Being intellectually convinced is insufficient grounds for the Word of God to have its intended, transforming effect upon our lives. On the bottom line, the ultimate grounds of response must be based upon a sincere faith commitment. As we have previously seen, “the word ... did not profit them, not being mixed with faith” (Heb. 4:2). Faith is essential, but it must be a faith which acts. The Bible cautions us to “be doers of the word, and not just hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (Jas. 1:22). The world is filled with intellectually convinced people who believe the Bible is the Word of God, but have not acted upon that belief. We must give more than lip service to the Bible. We must act upon our belief by humbly surrendering our lives to Jesus Christ and accepting His revelation for our lives contained in the Bible – the Word of God. With such convincing evidence in favor of the Bible’s reliability, the only sensible and intellectually honest response boils down to accepting the claim that the Bible is indeed the inspired Word of God.

William R. Kimball