Leave Nothing

The following video will be used as an illustration for my sermon Sunday morning. The sermon is taken from Hebrews 12:1-3.

Bon Voyage 2007!

I hope all of you have had a great Christmas. I pray that you will take time as 2007 winds down and think about how God has blessed you, watched over you, guided you, loved you, disciplined you, etc. and give thanks. Also, take time to prepare yourself for 2008. Oh, and by the way, Happy New Year!

P.S. I need some funny resolutions for 2008. If you have a funny one, or a list of funny resolutions, post them or email them to me.

A Harmony Of The Christmas Story

I pray that you all have a wonderful Christmas. May God bless you and your families with a Christ-filled Christmas. And remember to watch out for that mistletoe!!!

Bro. Matt

(The following is a harmony [chronological narrative] of the birth and early childhood of Jesus Christ. It is a great way to celebrate the Christmas season. I encourage everyone to read this on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning with their family.)

John 1:1-14
1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was in the beginning with God. 3All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. 4In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. 5The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. 6There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. 8He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. 9There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. 10He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. 12But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, 13who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. 14And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Luke 1:5-38
5In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6They were both righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and requirements of the Lord. 7But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both advanced in years. 8Now it happened that while he was performing his priestly service before God in the appointed order of his division, 9according to the custom of the priestly office, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10And the whole multitude of the people were in prayer outside at the hour of the incense offering. 11And an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the altar of incense. 12Zacharias was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. 13But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John. 14"You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. 15"For he will be great in the sight of the Lord; and he will drink no wine or liquor, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother's womb. 16"And he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God. 17"It is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS BACK TO THE CHILDREN, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, so as to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." 18Zacharias said to the angel, "How will I know this for certain? For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years." 19The angel answered and said to him, "I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20"And behold, you shall be silent and unable to speak until the day when these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time." 21The people were waiting for Zacharias, and were wondering at his delay in the temple. 22But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them; and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple; and he kept making signs to them, and remained mute. 23When the days of his priestly service were ended, he went back home. 24After these days Elizabeth his wife became pregnant, and she kept herself in seclusion for five months, saying, 25"This is the way the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked with favor upon me, to take away my disgrace among men." 26Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, 27to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28And coming in, he said to her, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." 29But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was. 30The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. 31"And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 32"He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; 33and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end." 34Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" 35The angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God. 36"And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. 37"For nothing will be impossible with God." 38And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.

Matthew 1:18-25
18Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 19And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly. 20But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21"She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." 22Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: 23"BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "GOD WITH US." 24And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife, 25but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus.

Luke 1:39-2:38
39Now at this time Mary arose and went in a hurry to the hill country, to a city of Judah, 40and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42And she cried out with a loud voice and said, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43"And how has it happened to me, that the mother of my Lord would come to me? 44"For behold, when the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy. 45"And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord." 46And Mary said: "My soul exalts the Lord, 47And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48"For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave; For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed. 49"For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. 50"AND HIS MERCY IS UPON GENERATION AFTER GENERATION TOWARD THOSE WHO FEAR HIM. 51"He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart. 52"He has brought down rulers from their thrones, And has exalted those who were humble. 53"HE HAS FILLED THE HUNGRY WITH GOOD THINGS; And sent away the rich empty-handed. 54"He has given help to Israel His servant, In remembrance of His mercy, 55As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and his descendants forever." 56And Mary stayed with her about three months, and then returned to her home. 57Now the time had come for Elizabeth to give birth, and she gave birth to a son. 58Her neighbors and her relatives heard that the Lord had displayed His great mercy toward her; and they were rejoicing with her. 59And it happened that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to call him Zacharias, after his father. 60But his mother answered and said, "No indeed; but he shall be called John." 61And they said to her, "There is no one among your relatives who is called by that name." 62And they made signs to his father, as to what he wanted him called. 63And he asked for a tablet and wrote as follows, "His name is John." And they were all astonished. 64And at once his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he began to speak in praise of God. 65Fear came on all those living around them; and all these matters were being talked about in all the hill country of Judea. 66All who heard them kept them in mind, saying, "What then will this child turn out to be?" For the hand of the Lord was certainly with him. 67And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying: 68"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people, 69And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of David His servant - 70As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from of old - 71Salvation FROM OUR ENEMIES, And FROM THE HAND OF ALL WHO HATE US; 72To show mercy toward our fathers, And to remember His holy covenant, 73The oath which He swore to Abraham our father, 74To grant us that we, being rescued from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, 75In holiness and righteousness before Him all our days. 76"And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; For you will go on BEFORE THE LORD TO PREPARE HIS WAYS; 77To give to His people the knowledge of salvation By the forgiveness of their sins, 78Because of the tender mercy of our God, With which the Sunrise from on high will visit us, 79TO SHINE UPON THOSE WHO SIT IN DARKNESS AND THE SHADOW OF DEATH, To guide our feet into the way of peace." 80And the child continued to grow and to become strong in spirit, and he lived in the deserts until the day of his public appearance to Israel.
Luke 2
1Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. 2This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. 4Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, 5in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. 6While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. 7And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 8In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. 9And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; 11for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12"This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." 15When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us." 16So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. 17When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. 18And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. 19But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them. 21And when eight days had passed, before His circumcision, His name was then called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. 22And when the days for their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23(as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "EVERY firstborn MALE THAT OPENS THE WOMB SHALL BE CALLED HOLY TO THE LORD"), 24and to offer a sacrifice according to what was said in the Law of the Lord, "A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS." 25And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to carry out for Him the custom of the Law, 28then he took Him into his arms, and blessed God, and said, 29"Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace, According to Your word; 30For my eyes have seen Your salvation, 31Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32A LIGHT OF REVELATION TO THE GENTILES, And the glory of Your people Israel." 33And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him. 34And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, "Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed - 35and a sword will pierce even your own soul - to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed." 36And there was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher She was advanced in years and had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers. 38At that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Matthew 2:1-23
1Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, 2"Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him." 3When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: 6'AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH, ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH; FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.'" 7Then Herod secretly called the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared. 8And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him." 9After hearing the king, they went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was. 10When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way. 13Now when they had gone, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up! Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him." 14So Joseph got up and took the Child and His mother while it was still night, and left for Egypt. 15He remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: "OUT OF EGYPT I CALLED MY SON." 16Then when Herod saw that he had been tricked by the magi, he became very enraged, and sent and slew all the male children who were in Bethlehem and all its vicinity, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the magi. 17Then what had been spoken through Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: 18"A VOICE WAS HEARD IN RAMAH, WEEPING AND GREAT MOURNING, RACHEL WEEPING FOR HER CHILDREN; AND SHE REFUSED TO BE COMFORTED, BECAUSE THEY WERE NO MORE." 19But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, and said, 20"Get up, take the Child and His mother, and go into the land of Israel; for those who sought the Child's life are dead." 21So Joseph got up, took the Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Then after being warned by God in a dream, he left for the regions of Galilee, 23and came and lived in a city called Nazareth This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophets: "He shall be called a Nazarene."

Luke 2:39-52
39When they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth. 40The Child continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. 41Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42And when He became twelve, they went up there according to the custom of the Feast; 43and as they were returning, after spending the full number of days, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. But His parents were unaware of it, 44but supposed Him to be in the caravan, and went a day's journey; and they began looking for Him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem looking for Him. 46Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers. 48When they saw Him, they were astonished; and His mother said to Him, "Son, why have You treated us this way? Behold, Your father and I have been anxiously looking for You." 49And He said to them, "Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father's house?" 50But they did not understand the statement which He had made to them. 51And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He continued in subjection to them; and His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Baptists, Baptists, Baptists...

The following is a website that has a lot of information about Baptists in general. It tells of the history, people groups, teachings, etc. historically known as Baptists. Whether or not you agree with it all, it would be a good site to visit.

All About Baptists

Watch Out!

Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. For each one will bear his own load.

Galatians 6:1-5

There is much to learn from the above passage, but I primarily want to point out two thoughts. First, we are to watch out for one another. We are to help fellow believers "get up" when they fall. This does not mean we are to condone what they have done, but we are too restore them (in love!). Second, we are to watch out for ourselves (i.e., watch out for temptations and stumbling blocks). It is easy to look at someone else and judge ourselves according to them. However, we should examine ourselves and test our works according to the perfect standard of Jesus Christ.

Yes, I know there is much, much more to this passage, but I really think these two thoughts are needed right now among many believers. I do hope that you can stand strong in the Lord and help weaker brothers "get up" when they fall.

Very Disturbing

To hear some people put it, we are the only association that fights. At least we are one state association and not three like the Southern Baptist Convention in Texas (this statement is not intended to hurt them either, just factual). Most associations as ours (conventions, fellowships, etc.) fight. They argue and debate on what needs to be done. This is how, many times, things are accomplished. So, while maybe not everything was perfect in Hillsboro, I do see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. Things are happening. People are changing. Churches are growing. BUT it is going to take time. While I'm not the most patient person, I do see the need for patience in this area. Do not give up; keep fighting the fight.

However, there is one item of business that really disturbs me. There was a letter sent out to certain pastors talking about certain events and individuals in Hillsboro. While I have no problem with that, I do have a problem with a person sending such a letter and not signing their name! And yes, I probably know this person, but I would advise that you sign your name and not send an anonymous letter. However, for all interested in the letter, I have re-typed it below (All spelling mistakes, errors, etc. were left in the passage below on purpose. I have tried to be as true to the original letter as possible).

The Letter:

"Dear Pastors,

This letter is being sent to 30 Texas pastors. I have been a Landmark Missionary Baptist Pastor for 29 years. During these years, I have watched my son, grandson, two nephews, three men in the churches I have pastored and a brother leave the ABA Fellowship and serve as pastors in the BMA, BBF, SBC and Independent Baptist Churches. Last week in Hillsboro I went into the Ladies Auxiliary Meeting and counted 12 ladies under the age of 40 in attendance. In the pastor's meeting, I counted 23 men under the age of 40 in attendance. I may be wrong a little in my count but you will agree that we are getting older in the MBA of Texas. QUESTION? Where are the young men going? They are leaving because of similar situations that happened at Hillsboro last week. The vast majority was disappointed in the Moderator's Address. It was his opinion and the opinion of what Ray Brooks thinks about the MBA of Texas. The majority was disappointed when a pastor was allowed to call another pastor (not once but three times a liar) and he did nothing. The body was waiting for the Moderator to call the man out of order but never did. Several pastors told me it would be a long time before they return to another meeting. One pastor who had not attended in five years said he thought things may have changed but they haven't and it will be a long time before he returns. There was so much unchristian actions see at this associational meeting that many will not attend again and some pastor will leave the ABA.

I pastor in South Texas and I was stymied by what the South Texas pastor did. I will not mention a man's name but he is a member of Fellowship MBC, talked to be me about Brother Ellision. The man told me that Brother Ellison was taking half of their church to start a new church like Rick Warren's church. Brother Ellison should have told the church first what his plans were before talking to anyone. He said Fellowship MBC was not going to pay Brother Ellison like they said they would. I listen and didn't say anything, because I knew this man was upset with his pastor and his conversion with me would be the end of his complaining. I later learn this same conversation was shared at the Heritage Baptist Institute and with other South Texas pastors. Brother Jesus was asked to oppose Brother Ellison because he was a member of Fellowship MBC. The brother that started all this didn't want to speak at the Associational Meeting because everyone knows he doesn't like Brother Ellison and others may say they are airing their personal dislikes.

We are divided over the Awana program, KJ only, divorce, support missions not churches and many other issues. Our Mexican work is divided. Now from South Texas comes this teaching that we should not plant churches but plant missions that later become churches. We all should study our Bible about early churches and what they did.

With the unchristian attitudes and actions that are being shown by pastors in the ABA many more young men are going to leave the ABA. I will stay at my church until God moves me but I have asked the Lord not to lead me to another ABA church and this is hard. I am a fourth generation of Missionary Baptists.

Until our leaders starting acting like they are saved and become more like Christ in the actions MBA is in trouble. A good example is at Walnut Street MBC in Hillsboro. I held two revivals in that church during Brother Paul's ministry and I was shocked to see they only have 40 in SS. I remember when Fellowship MBC had many more members.

There needs to be some repentance and public apologies to several people. If Christ like actions are not seen in our leaders we are in trouble.

Ashamed to be a part of such an unchristian associations. My son was with me (never again) and he said dad, it's not changed since I left. Our fellowship my disagree but never become so unchristian toward each other.

I can't sign my name because I would be treated with much anger and unchristian acts like I have seen used on other pastors. Help us leaders!!!!!!"


My response:

What?!?

First - proof read your letter. It makes it much easier for the reader to understand what you are trying to say. Second - sign your name! To me it seems awful unchristian to say these things and not sign your name. Third - Bro. Britton gave his opinion in the Moderator's address because that is what a Moderator's address is. It's a time for him to speak to the concerns that he has within a certain organization. (It's not supposed to be a sermon...) Fourth - instead of running from the problems, tackle them "head on." Fifth - if the moderator did not call "point of order" like you think he should have concerning Bro. Ellison, then why didn't you?!?

There are many more responses I would like to post, but calling the MBA of Texas unchristian is a bit much for me. More will come later.

Happy Thanksgiving!

For anyone who needs a good reason to thank God this coming year, then read Psalm 136. There are so many reasons to thank God for what He has done (and for who He is!). May all of you have a great holiday and thank God for His many blessings!

MBA Of Texas State Meeting

Tonight I will attend the TBI Alumni banquet and enjoy the food and fellowship. Starting tomorrow, we will have meetings, a few more meetings, and then some meetings. I pray that this will be a productive year and that many of the challenges we face can be addressed. Please pray for a good meeting, safe travel, and God's blessings upon our work. I will post updates later.

ABA Insurance

For quite some time, I have contemplated the idea of the ABA having voluntary group insurance especially since many preachers and their families have no insurance. Such an action would help many churches, families, individuals, etc. afford decent insurance. In fact, there are similar programs (credit union, etc.) already offered for ABA affiliated preachers, etc. The question is, how do we look into such a program and what are the pros/cons of such an action?

Logos Bible Software

For all you TBI students, alumni, faculty, etc. there is a promotional plan by Logos Bible Software for its Software Libraries. You could save from 25% to 50% because of the academic nature of this offer. If you would like to check it out, email me so I can send you the website to go to. But hurry, because this offer does end on November 12, 2007. (And no, I receive no kickback from this offer!!!)

What A Day!

Well, it's finally here...yes, the day I turn 33. Can you believe I have hit the number that Jesus was...the number that Larry Bird wore for the Celtics...the number that means I'm one year old than 32?!? Well, I'm taking today off (well, except for tonight at church...but besides that...), so don't call me (just playing). Anyway, I promise to get the blogging going again within the next week...that is if I'm still in good enough shape to do so because it's hard to be 33 (my feet hurt this morning...and so it begins).

Faith Promise 2007

Bro. David Smith did an excellent job challenging EBC to move out on faith and watch God work in His work. And the church did! The members of EBC committed to give through faith over $21,500 this next year to the Great Commission work. What a blessing to see God work through His people!

The Ten Commandments

I hope this movie is as good as they say it is.

End Times News

In an AP article, "Israel may OK division of Jerusalem," senior Israelis officials are quoted as saying that they support a political transfer of part of the city of Jerusalem to Palestinian control. Now, this seems to be an interesting turn of developments considering what has been happening for the last several years. Of course, the Palestinians want all of Israel - not just a part of it. While this move may or may not appease the Palestinians (among other groups), it will certainly not be the last newsworthy item we see concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

I say we should pray for Israel and the situation in the Middle East. We may or may not be in the end times, but either way, we should pray for those people that they might come to know Jesus Christ as their Savior.

"Yahweh" by U2

You'll love this song and video mix...trust me.

Some Good Thoughts From The Barber

The following is found at www.praisegodbarebones.blogspot.com:

The Pernicious Evil of Mere Preference
…in matters of denominational divisionIt is a serious matter to divide the Body of Christ. In the New Testament we find both the longing of Christ that division might not take place (John 17:20-23), and the accomplished fact of division as the necessary consequence of discipline in the church and the task of contending earnestly for the faith (e.g., 1 John 2:18-19; 1 Corinthians 5:13; Jude...in its entirety; Revelation 2:2, 6, 14-16, 20-25). In every case, the only grounds for division in the New Testament were as a response to the continued, unrepentant sin (either in doctrine or in practice) of fellow members in the church.Every age of Christianity has understood this simple truism: Division is to be avoided and unity is to be prized in the body of Christ. The only appropriate time to cleave the people of God is in response to unrepentant sin.
When Christiantiy divided East and West, the leaders of the two factions mutually excommunicated one another. If they had not considered it a matter of sin, they would not have divided.
When Martin Luther left Roman Catholicism, he did so over what he regarded as profound, unrepentant sin in the theology and practice of the Roman Catholic Church. If he had not considered it a matter of sin, he would not have divided.
When John Smythe and company separated from their congregation of English expatriates, Smythe declared the faith and practice of the Anglican Church, the Ancient Church, and all of his former spiritual kindred to be "Antichristian." If he had not considered it a matter of sin, he would not have divided.As I said, every age of Christianity has understood this simple truism—every age, that is, except for the present age. To divide the Body of Christ over anything other than obstinate, unrepentant sin is itself an act of obstinate, unrepentant sin.We have instituted in some corners among ourselves a consumeristic mutant of Christianity in which the basis of unity is, rather than our collective submission to the indwelling Christ, the common preferences of our little band regarding the things that we consume (music, activities for our children, activities for ourselves, or preferences for cultural trappings). People shop for churches like they shop for restaurants. This is the legacy of Evangelicalism, which derives its idiosyncrasies from the present zeitgeist—it is just so much more polite to sidestep questions of true or false, right or wrong, and find refuge in the concept of personal preference.Enter a recent conversation I had with Paul Littleton at his blog (click here). Paul had his knickers in a knot over Dr. Mark Dever's frank assertion that pedobaptists are engaged in unrepentant sin for baptizing contrary to Christ's institution of the ordinance in the Bible. I entered the thread to assert that Dever was no less consistent than Littleton (or John Piper), who would bar pedobaptists from positions of leadership in the church. Paul retorted that his church's refusal to place a pedobaptist in positions of high leadership within the church was based merely upon their preferences, and not upon any matters so grave to call them sinful:
No, our church would not call a paedobaptizer as pastor, but it isn't because we would say he is an unrepentant sinner. That I know of Faith Baptist would not allow an unrepentant sinner to knowingly speak from the pulpit. We also discourage unrepentant sinners from partaking of the Lord's table (though we don't always know who they are, so that is often left to their own consciences). But again, we would not consider our Presbyterian brother an unrepentant sinner.. . . . . . . . The reason would be that we are a Baptist church and he is a Presbyterian. We believe in believer's baptism by immersion and he does not. We practice congregationalism and I would presume he does not.Littleton's underlying point here is that he considers "Baptist" and "Presbyterian" to denote personal religious preferences—that being one or the other does not amount to a sin.Certainly, I can comprehend coming to the conclusion that Baptists and Presbyterians are divided by mere preference. Christian history is replete with churches split, individuals alienated, and battles waged over things that, in the long run, history has adjuged to be less than substantial. Perhaps, someday, somebody like Paul will convince me that the distinctive beliefs of Baptists are not matters of biblical obedience, but instead are merely points of private interpretation. It's possible.But when I am so convinced, I shall know what I must immediately do—at that moment, if I would be faithful to Christ, I must immediately renounce the separate existence of such a thing as a Baptist church and repent of ever being a member of such a church. Why? Because it is a sin to divide the Body of Christ (or to perpetuate division) over matters of mere preference. Thus my reply to Littleton:
Put me in the same category as John Smythe, Thomas Helwys, Roger Williams, John Clarke, et al. If it would not be a sin for me to merge with the Presbyterians, the Anglicans, the Romans, or whomever else (i.e., if to do so I would not be joining them in their unrepentant sin), then it would be a sin for me not to do so. Anything less fails to take seriously Christ's plea for Christian unity.
…in matters of church leadership.It is also a serious matter to deny to any person the opportunity to exercise what the person believes to be a calling from God. Jesus Himself warned us about hindering people in the pursuit of Christian ministry (Mark 9:38-40). The Bible also provides us with a full set of qualifications by which we admit or bar people into the offices of the church (e.g., 1 Timothy 2:9-3:13; Titus 1:5-9). When we apply these biblical qualifications, we know that we are limiting the offices of the church not according to our personal prejudices but according to God's command. Who are we to restrict the calling of God? If we limit the offices based upon anything other than biblical authority, we limit them based upon illegitimate authority and are guilty of a grievous sin.Enter a recent post by Wade Burleson (click here). Burleson's post spun off from a post by R. L. Vaughn (click here), which in turn found its origin in the comment stream of a post by Emily Hunter-McGowin (click here). Burleson's position appears in his own words in comment #137 at the original post, where he said:
Finally, I have said publicly that I would not personally lead my church to hire a female pastor, would not be a member of a church where the senior pastor was female, and I have no problem personally with the BFM 2000 on this issue. However, I am honest enough to say that my discomfort is personal and cultural—and not Biblical.Someday, somebody like Wade Burleson might convince me that the Bible does not prohibit women from serving as elders/pastors/overseers. Better men than I have reached this conclusion. It's possible.But when I am so convinced, I shall know what I immediately must do—at that moment, if I would be faithful to Christ, I must disavow my former affirmations of The Baptist Faith & Message, must campaign to alter the policies of FBC Farmersville to permit women to serve as pastors, and must give my personal benediction to women called to serve as pastors. Why? Because it is a grave matter to obstruct anyone in the pursuit of what they believe to be God's calling upon their lives. For me to dare to tell anyone, based upon nothing but the authority of my own mere preferences, that that person must not comply with what they believe to be God's calling upon their lives, would be a heinous act of sin. Either I have sound biblical grounds to say that they have misunderstood God's calling—that it would be sinful for them to pursue their plans contrary to the commandment of God—or I had better keep my opinion to myself and prevent my opinion from being legislated into the tenets of my church.But, in both of these matters (denominational division and qualficiations for biblical offices of the church), what if I am not convinced either way? What if I can see both sides of the matter? What if I have not come to any sound conclusion? Then I must preserve liberty on the matter. But liberty doesn't mean "I'll go arrange my church according to my view, and you go over there and arrange your church according to your view." Liberty means staying in the same congregation together and not making my uncertain preferences a test of fellowship. God prevent me from tying the hands of my own closest brethren over matters that I find entirely unimportant beyond the bounds of our local congregation. If I have matters of mere preference in view, my own congregation—my next-of-spiritual-kin—are the very last people upon whom I should impose my commands rather than the commandments of God.To divide or restrict the body of Christ over matters of mere preference (personal, cultural, denominational, or otherwise) is a pernicious evil.

Charlie Leroy Vaughn

My grandfather, known as "Gramps" to us, died this morning from a heart attack. He was a godly man and was blessed with 94 years of life. Jesus saved Gramps when he was young and was truly his Lord and Savior. Gramps probably knew more hymns than anyone I knew. In fact, he was constantly picking a hymn for Jennifer to play that she had never heard of! Of course, he seemed to think that was funny, but I'm not sure about her...haha. Gramps was "old-school" in that he never questioned whether or not the Bible was God's Word..."of course, it's God's Word, that's what it says, isn't it?" He taught me at a very young age to enjoy sorghum syrup, cane syrup, cured hams, and all those other old country foods. And to this day...I still eat that stuff...He also taught me the importance of being faithful to God. And yes, I know Gramps was not perfect, but he took his relationship with the Lord seriously. He loved the Lord, his family, and his church. He also loved his wife, "Maw-Maw." They had been married 70 years and 8 months. Now I worry about her and how she will respond to this sudden change (she is 92). Well, I don't know if any of this makes sense, and I don't really feel like going back over it to proof read it, but I do know that Gramps loved God and his family. And we loved Gramps. I'm so happy to have all the memories I do of him...but I'm sad that he's gone. I'm going to miss him a lot, but I do know that one day I will see him again for Jesus Christ is my Savior too!

Also, check out my uncle's blog (Robert's Vaughn - Seeking The Old Paths) to see more about my grandfather.

[If you would like to know how to have Jesus as your Lord and Savior, check out this web page www.ebenezermbc.com. Click on the salvation tab and read the Scriptures and explanations listed.]

We Shall See Jesus

Ummm...

Well, last night's game was interesting. Miami played hard. The Refs called pretty good. But the A&M play-calling stunk! For example: Let's imagine we have a 293 lb. tailback that no defense in the nation (Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, etc.) has been able to stop. Let's also imagine that this tailback got 20 touchdowns last year (2nd in the nation). Let's also imagine that this tailback was the decisive factor in the win versus Fresno St. Let's also imagine this tailback did not get the ball until 38:00 minutes into the game last night. Let's also imagine this tailback only rushed the ball 2 times. Let's also imagine that this was possible the worst called (A&M play-calling that is) game I've seen in a long time...Oh wait! I'm not imagining...it was real! The offense was flat...the defense was flat...the special teams was flat (yours truly was also flat...flat on his back after exhausting himself of "informing" the coaches what to do through his television). Oh well, there was one bright moment. The second string quarterback looks like he may be the next superstar...of course, that is until the play-calling is bad again...

Cremation vs. Burial - Part 3

(more info from the below referenced website)

Is it Wrong for Christians to Choose Cremation?
Some factors which favor cremation:
It can be more economical, because a simple container can be used in place of an expensive casket.
There is no cost associated with the purchase and perpetual care of a grave site, or tombstone.
It allows scattering of the remains in a place of significance to the deceased.
Some people would rather have their body disposed of quickly by heat rather than allow it to decay in a grave.

Some factors which favor burial:
God selected burial at Moses' death (Deuteronomy 34:6).
Most of the reference to burning of a body in the Bible are instances of: punishment for criminal acts, punishment for improper behavior, killings by Pagans, or destruction of idols and evil material.
St. Paul appears to favor burial. In 1 Corinthians 15:35-44, he discusses how God will raise the decomposed body of a believer. The symbolism used is that of planting a seed and having new life rise from the decaying seed.
The Christian church has advocated burial since its inception. They reserved burning for Witches and other heretics. They exterminated hundreds of thousands of them, mainly during the 15th to 18th centuries.
Cremation can be an aid to murderers. Once a body has been cremated, it cannot be exhumed and analyzed for poisons.

Various Christian groups have taken a variety of positions on cremation:
The People's Gospel Hour condemns the practice.
The Roman Catholic Church used to condemn the practice. In fact, the only German Catholics excommunicated during World War II were not prison guards at extermination camps or other mass murderers; they were individuals who favored cremation.
RBC Ministries suggests a cautious approach.
Most Christian groups take a neutral stance.
"Cremation is completely banned by traditional Jews. Orthodox and Conservative practice would allow it only in a time of plague. Otherwise, interment in a Jewish cemetery is mandated." These beliefs are reinforced by recent memories of the millions of Jews who were cremated in the death camps of Nazi Germany. However, some rabbis in the Jewish Reform movement support cremation if it is the wish of the deceased.

Cremation vs. Burial - Part 2

(more info from the referenced website below)

What Does The Bible Say About Burial? (Continued):
The burial of many important Biblical figures is described in the Bible:
Genesis 25:8-10: Abraham
Genesis 23:1-4: Sarah
Genesis 35:19-20: Rachel
Genesis 35:29: Isaac
Genesis 49:33 and 50:1-13: Jacob
Genesis 50:26: Joseph (The Israelites went to great effort to bury his body in the Promised Land; they retained it for over 300 years in Egypt and after the Exodus during 40 years of wanderings before burying it.)
Deuteronomy 34:6: Moses (God selected a burial site at a secret location in Moab for Moses.)
Joshua 24:29-30: Joshua
Joshua 24:33: Eleazar
1 Samuel 25:1: Samuel
1 Kings 2:10: David
Matthew 14:10-12: John the Baptist
Acts 5:5-10: Ananias and Sapphira
Acts 8:2: Stephen

To be not given a proper burial was considered to be a great tragedy and dishonor.
1 Kings 13:22: A prophet disobeyed God by eating a meal in a forbidden location. God laid a curse on him: that his body would not be buried in the tomb of his fathers. Shortly after, the prophet was attacked by a lion and his remains left on a road.
Jeremiah 16:6: God laid a horrible curse on the Israelites: that many would die of diseases, will not be mourned and would be "like refuse lying on the ground" (NIV). Their bodies will be consumed by animals and birds.
Jeremiah 22:19: God laid a similar curse on Jehoiakim because of his pride and disobedience. Jeremiah said that he would be given the burial of a donkey: to be dragged away and thrown outside the city gates.
Crucifixion: Of the countless number of tombs in Palestine from the era of Roman occupation which have been excavated, only one skeleton has been found which bears the marks of a crucifixion. That is because after a Roman execution, the lifeless body would be typically discarded in an open pit where it would be devoured by wild dogs. To be forbidden a traditional burial added greatly to the horror of this method of execution.

Cremation vs. Burial - Part 1

This is a side issue for most people, but I have heard arguments concerning this issue from a "cremation is wrong" side to "burial and cremation...it doesn't matter" side. So I thought I would start digging into the research and see what I could find. Here is some information that is posted on www.religioustolerance.org. (Remember, just because I post a website, does not mean I necessarily recommend it.)

History of Cremation:
Most archaeologists believe that cremation was invented during the stone age, about 3000 BCE. It was most likely first used in Europe or the Near East. It became the most common method of disposing of bodies by 800 BCE in Greece, and 600 BCE in Rome. However, other societies had other methods: in ancient Israel, sepulchers (tombs or vaults) were used for burial; cremation was shunned. The body was exposed to the air of the tomb and simply decomposed. The early Christian church also rejected cremation, partly because of its association with Pagan societies of Greece and Rome. Christians buried their dead in graves or in catacombs (underground vaults). In ancient Egypt, bodies were embalmed. In ancient China, they were buried. When Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire, and the followers of other religions were exiled or exterminated, burial became the only method of disposing of bodies throughout Europe. An Italian, Professor Brunetti, developed the first modern cremation chamber in the 1870's. This triggered a movement towards cremation in Europe and North America, which has continued to the present day. In 1886, the Roman Catholic Church officially banned cremations. Church members as recently as World War II were excommunicated for arranging them. The Eastern Orthodox ecumenical patriarch of Constantinople stated in 1961 that "There is no formal Orthodox rule against cremation, but there is a heavy weight of custom and sentiment in favor of Christian burial."

What Does The Bible Say About Cremation?
The Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) has a few references to the disposal by burning in fire. Some verses describe executions by Philistines or Babylonians. Burning of bodies and objects in ancient Israel were mostly reserved for idols, criminals or enemies:
Genesis 38:24: Judah initially ordered his pregnant daughter-in-law to be burned to death because she was guilty of prostitution. This action would have caused the death of the woman and her twin fetuses.
Exodus 32:20: Moses destroyed the golden calf by burning it.
Leviticus 20:14: If a man marries both a woman and her mother, then all three "must be burned in the fire" (NIV). The passage is ambiguous - it is not known whether they would be burned alive, or would be stoned to death first, and their bodies burned.
Leviticus 21:9: If the daughter of a priest becomes a prostitute, then she "must be burned in the fire." (NIV)
Numbers 16:35: God exterminated Korah and 250 Israelite men with fire because they opposed Moses.
Deuteronomy 7:25: God commanded that the idols of Pagan Gods be destroyed with fire.
Joshua 7:15-25: After Joshua and his army exterminated the men, women and innocent children of Jericho, a few soldiers disobeyed God's command and looted the city. As punishment for the theft, and to pay for Israel's disgrace, God ordered the thieves to be burned. They were stoned to death; their bodies were burned and buried in what was called the Valley of Achor.
Judges 15:6: The Philistines burned Samson's wife and father-in-law to death.
1 Samuel 31:11-13: Earlier in the chapter, Saul had been wounded and asked for assisted suicide from his armor-bearer. The latter refused, so Saul committed suicide himself. The Philistines impaled Saul's body and those of his sons and left them on public display. The people of Jabesh Gilead retrieved the bodies, burned them and later buried the remaining bones in Gilead. There have been a number theories raised to account for this unusual treatment to a hero: burning might have a local custom in Gilead. The people of Gilead may have been worried that the Philistines might dig up the bodies and further desecrate them. Burning might have been necessary because their bodies may have partly decomposed. The Hebrew word translated as "burnt" might actually mean "anointed"; thus, the bodies might not have been burned after all.
2 Kings 10:26: Jehu demolished a temple consecrated to the God Baal and burned its sacred stone.
Jeremiah 29:22: This verse contains a curse which refers to the time that the Babylonians burned Zedekiah and Ahab by fire.
Amos 2:1: God proclaimed a death curse on Moab because he had reduced the bones of the king of Edom to lime through burning.

The Christian Scriptures (New Testament) contain few references to burning of bodies or objects:
Acts 19:19: Sorcerers who were converted to Christianity brought their scrolls out to be burned.
Revelation 20:15: The fate of those whose names were not written in the Book of Life is to be thrown into the lake of fire.

Special Missionary Prayer Service

Tonight, EBC had a special service for the missionaries that we support. We reported on the works, explained the needs the works had, and, most importantly, prayed for each missionary. While it may seem boring to some people, the members of EBC left tonight with a compassionate, loving heart for the missionaries that we are privileged to help support.

Theologian Quiz

Click here to take a quiz and see what theologian you are most like!

Okay, this quiz is not original with me (actually, I'm stealing the idea from my uncle's blog - Seeking The Old Paths), but I thought some of you might like to take it. Anyway, have fun!

Here are my results:

You scored as Karl Barth, The daddy of 20th Century theology. You perceive liberal theology to be a disaster and so you insist that the revelation of Christ, not human experience, should be the starting point for all theology. Karl Barth 93% Jonathan Edwards 67% Anselm 67% John Calvin 67% Charles Finney 53% Martin Luther 53% Augustine 33% Paul Tillich 27% Friedrich Schleiermacher 27% Jürgen Moltmann 7%

Now This Is Interesting

While doing some research, I ran across a church that has these articles posted on their homepage:

"What a horrifying reality, to think you will enter God's presence on the day of your death, but then, come to find out on that day, you were actually deceived, and you find yourself in hell. Such is, and will be, the terror of most who call themselves Christians today (Matthew 7:13-14; Luke 13:24; 2 Peter 2:2). They will find themselves weeping and gnashing their teeth (e.g. Matthew 8:12; 22:1-14; 25;14-30; Luke 13:28).
If you are involved with the kind of Christianity that views the "church of Christ", or Billy Graham, or Rick Warren, or Joel Osteen, or James Dobson, or Pat Robertson, or John MacArthur, or Tony Evans, or Greg Laurie, or Charles Stanley, or Chuck Smith, or Fred Price, or J. Vernon McGee, or Charles Blake, or Chuck Swindoll, or Gene Scott, or Harold Camping (Family Radio), or John Piper, or T. D. Jakes, or David Jeremiah, or Charles Spurgeon, or Dave Hunt, or David W. Cloud, or Perry F Rockwood, or Neil Anderson, or Robert Schuller, or Jack Hayford, or Benny Hinn, or Miles McPherson, or Ray Comfort, or Jim Cobrae, or Chuck Colson, or C. S. Lewis, or Pope John Paul, or Hank Hanegraaff, or Paul Chappell, or any of the like (or any of the likes on "Christian" TV or radio) as godly men, you are not saved. Why? Because, you are on the broad way (Matthew 7:13; 2 Peter 2:2; 2 Timothy 4:3). You have not the characteristic of Christ's sheep (John 10:5). And, men such as these are wells without water (2 Peter 2:17)."

"Most churches are led by false teachers (2 Peter 2:1-3). Some of the more well known "heap" (2 Tim. 4:3) of false teachers are James Dobson, John MacArthur, Greg Laurie,, Billy Graham, Pat Robertson, Rick Warren, Dave Hunt, Charles Stanley, Fredrick K. C. Price, Neil Anderson, Chuck Swindoll, Chuck Smith, Miles McPherson, T.D. Jakes, Benny Hinn, Jack Hayford, Martin & Deidre Bobgan, Paul Chappell, Also erroneous are the "Early Church Fathers" (Catholic lies), TBN, Charles Spurgeon (ecumenical), Promise Keepers, "KJV Onlyism", Alcoholics Anonymous, "Christian" Psychology, "Biblical" Counseling, and certain holidays (e.g. Christmas, Easter Halloween, and Valentine's Day)"

[These articles were taken from the website of A True Church at http://www.atruechurch.info/home.html]

I have spent some time reading the different pages on this website and will reserve my comments for now. But I would like for you mature Christians to check this site out and comment here on what you think.

I Can't Take It!!!

It's getting to be too much. I watched A&M beat Fresno St. in 3 OT yesterday and almost lost my voice! Now, I'm watching my Fantasy Football team go down the drain (literally!). I don't know how much more of the season I can take!!!

Grandparents

Today at the school where my children attend, they are celebrating Grandparents Day. Savannah and Levi are so excited about their Nana & Papa and Maw-Maw & Paw-Paw coming to eat lunch with them. In fact, I'm excited about it too. I am so thankful that my children have grandparents, especially grandparents that care for them. [Savannah and Levi still have 6 of their 8 great-grandparents living...and up until this past December, the number was 7!] In fact, I can see now, more than ever, the wonderful role grandparents (and the rest of the extended family) play in a child's life. I was fortunate to have aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc. who cared for me and loved me. It gave me a sense of what a true family is. Of course, I'm so thankful for my parents (who are now the grandparents!) who reared me.

Now I know this post is "mushy," etc., but if God blessed you with a wonderful family, take a moment and thank Him! Thank Him for the parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, step-dads, step-moms, etc. that love(d) you. Thank God for the children He has given you. Thank God even if your family is not what it should have been...in other words, thank Him for the opportunity He has given you to do the right thing. And of course, thank God for your spouse or significant other, for you never know when "death may part you."

Oh, by the way, my grandmother's cooking is better than your grandmother's cooking!

Are Christian Holidays Pagan In Origin?

I was immersed in a conversation along these lines the other day, and I thought it might be interesting to see what others thought. Below is an article I found at www.comereason.org, so forgive me for not being creative, but I thought there were some good thoughts in this article.

The "Pagan Roots" Of Holidays:
Easter is specifically a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead (see my article "The Resurrection as History" at http://www.comereason.org/newsletters/mar01.htm ). While there are many different types of springtime rituals and celebrations (much of this stemming from the importance of agriculture in the survival), the fact that they occur somewhere around Easter is purely coincidental.
The time of Christ's resurrection is clearly shown in the New Testament to be the Sunday following the Jewish Passover. Jesus was arrested after having celebrated the Passover with His disciples. He was crucified and rose three days later. The fact that in subsequent centuries symbols of some other spring rites such as bunnies and eggs have made their way into the Easter celebration in no way makes the holiday pagan. Many of those symbols are expressions of new life - which certainly fits in with the theme of Easter.
As for some of the other holidays, such as Christmas, Christians didn't allow the pagans to keep their celebrations, but rather provided an alternative to the more popular secular festivals. During the Christmas season, for example, many Christians were uncomfortable with the worship of a pagan god, Mithra (for more on Mithra and Christianity, see Did Christianity Steal From Mithraism?). So the church decided to counter the pagan festival with one of their own, one that celebrates the birth of the true savior. Since no one knows on just which day Jesus was actually born, December 25 worked as well as any other. We see many churches do similar things today in their Harvest festivals; they choose October 31 to create an alternative celebration to Halloween.
Hank Hanegraaff correctly summed up this issue when he wrote, "The real question that must be addressed is, 'What was the church's intent in choosing December 25 for the celebration of Christmas in the first place?' The answer may surprise you! The early church chose this date to point to the triumph that Christ's birth represented over the pagan traditions of the Roman Empire. In other words, the church was not endorsing a pagan ceremony but establishing a rival celebration. Today the world has all but forgotten the pagan gods of Rome. But at least a billion people on planet Earth celebrate the Christ of Christmas."(1)

The Biblical Understanding of Festivals:
Ultimately, though it is important to understand what God's word says about how we should approach holidays. Paul shows in Romans 14 that things we would normally consider pagan are not in and of themselves evil. It is really the conscience and motivation of the person that has the real significance. Paul writes "One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind." (Rom 14:5)
Since most people are not trying to celebrate pagan gods in their celebration of holidays such as Christmas or Easter, but the Lord Jesus, the holidays are not corrupted. Other holidays such as Valentine's day are really cultural celebrations that use established and well-understood symbols like cupid to convey an abstract concept like love. It is only when the holiday celebrates ideas that are counter to the Christian message that they become dangerous.

Author:
Lenny

References:
1 - Hanegraaff, Hank "Is Christmas Christian?" The Christian Research Newsletter, Volume 6: Number 5, (c)1993 Christian Research Institute http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/cri/cri-nwsl/crn0056a.txt

[The full article can be found at http://www.comereason.org/soc_culture/soc030.asp]

Labor Day...Holiday?!?

Well, I hope everyone has a great holiday weekend by enjoying a holiday that celebrates working by not working! (I know...I don't get it either...). Be safe, have fun, and praise God for a time of relaxation!

Symbolism Or Mere Coincidence?

In Genesis 50:1-14, we see where the embalmed body of Jacob was taken from Egypt to Hebron for burial. Probably due to the hostility of Philistine and Amorite tribes, the direct route ("Way To The Land Of The Philistines" or "Way Of The Sea") was avoided. The funeral procession passed around the southern end of the Dead Sea, through the land of Moab, and crossed the Jordan at Abel-mizraim opposite Jericho. Now, is this a forerunner of what the nation of Israel would do in a few centuries (entering into the Promised Land, etc.) or is it a coincidence? Maybe...maybe not.

"You're In Good Hands With Jesus"

Yes, I know I'm ripping Allstate off (but parodies are legal!), but the above statement is true! That is why I've entitled my Sunday morning sermon "You're In Good Hands With Jesus" (taken from Hebrews 10). I hope and pray that this coming Sunday will be a time to not necessarily "disciple" us but to glorify God. I'm afraid sometimes I tend to preach to much on the discipleship part (which is definitely needed!), and neglect the pure glorification of God. So, pray for me and Ebenezer as we try to praise God through His Word this coming weekend.

Praise The Lord!

One of our missionaries in India (name withheld for his safety...if you want to know who I'm talking about, email me at mattg@ebenezermbc.com) went through a tough day and a half this weekend. As many of you know, there were two bombs that exploded in India and approximately 23 more that did not detonate. In fact, one of these bombs greatly affected this brother (once again, email me and I'll explain), however, God was watching over him. While, I think it is wise to keep much of his personal information off the "net," I do ask that you pray for this missionary. Pray that God might continue to bless his work and use him in a mighty way. And yes, praise God for the protection given to this brother.

What A Milestone!

This little blog has now reached an important milestone - 100 posts! Now that may not seem much to you, but for a guy that only posts 3-4 times a week, it is awesome! So go ahead, browse through the other posts, and I'll "see" you next week.

The Passing Of A Saint

Bro. Albert Garner passed away earlier today. The funeral will be Saturday, 10 am at Roanoke Baptist Church in Plant City, Florida. Please remember his family in your prayers, and praise God for the promotion of this godly man.

Missing Person

Many of you already know this, but please remember my uncle and aunt, Robert & Kim Vaughn, in your prayers. Kim's mother went missing about 2 months ago, and they have not found her yet. So, please check out the links and article that was posted on Robert's blog (I have included it below too for your convenience). And keep praying for this family!

Eight weeks
"Today my mother-in-law has been missing eight weeks. I want to thank everyone for your thoughts, prayers, well-wishes, moral support -- whatever God has blessed you to do. Thank you.Kelly Jolkowski of Project Jason (and mother of missing person Jason Jolkowski) has written a nice article titled Aging Persons with Alzheimer’s and Dementia Increase Missing Person Statistics. It is to be published in the September issue of the trucking magazine Through the Gears. Kelly interweaves the stories of Byron Freeman and Shirley Hunt with a world of information about Alzheimer's, missing persons, search and rescue, etc. You might want to look for it if you're in a truck stop. You can find it among free truckers' publications. It will also appear on the Project Jason website on September 1st (d.v.)."

A New Record!

Who would have thought that we would ever see the Rangers set any kind of baseball record (well, except for maybe bad ones)? But to score 30 points, a feat which has not been done in baseball in over 100 years, is incredible! Congratulations Rangers! You're doing just enough to keep me hanging on...

[Here is an article from www.texasrangers.com for all you baseball fans]

BALTIMORE -- Through baseball's storied past, things seem to happen every so often that are borderline unexplainable, that only numbers can put into perspective, and that leave even the most well-spoken players speechless.
"We were just out there shaking our heads," center field Marlon Byrd said. "No one has seen that before and you won't see it again."
Texas scored 30 runs in a 30-3 drubbing of the Orioles on Wednesday, the most ever by an American League team and second to only to the Chicago Colts' 36-run performance in 1897.
Both Texas and Baltimore set new franchise records for runs scored and runs allowed, respectively, and the Rangers also set a new all-time mark with 29 hits in the game.
"It was great to be a part of," said third baseman Travis Metcalf, who was called up from Triple-A Oklahoma before the game. "It was amazing in capital letters."
The ridiculous numbers posted by the Texas lineup are almost unbelievable. Metcalf and Byrd both hit grand slams to mark just the second time in franchise history the team has hit two in the same game, and the Rangers finished with six home runs. Every Rangers' starter had at least one hit and scored at least one run, and eight of the nine ended up with at least one RBI.
Both the eighth and ninth hitters in the order, infielder Ramon Vazquez and catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, notched two homers and seven RBIs. The last time two players had seven RBIs in the same game was when the New York Yankees faced the Kansas City A's in 1962, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. The two batters? Yankee greats Elston Howard and Mickey Mantle.
"It was unbelievable," Saltalamacchia said. "That was ridiculous. I've never been in a game like that in my life. It was one of those things. We were just seeing the ball and hitting the ball. You can't help but laugh. It's nothing they did. It's not like they made a lot of errors. It was just ridiculous. Everybody is going to remember it."
For the Orioles, the numbers game wasn't as fun. Reliever Brian Burres couldn't even finish one inning, as he surrendered eight runs on eight hits and saw his ERA jump from 4.45 to 5.24. Paul Shuey was beckoned to finish the game, and Texas continued its pounding. He threw two innings and gave up nine runs to watch his ERA skyrocket from 6.75 to 9.49.
"You have to have a real short memory and you let it go," Baltimore manager Dave Trembley said after the rout.
For Baltimore fans, however, the loss isn't as easily forgettable. Dave Murray, 72, has been a season ticket holder for more than 20 years, and said he goes to about 65 Orioles games every season. He keeps meticulous scorecards for each one, but said he's hanging onto his sheet commemorating Wednesday's game.
"It's unbelievable," Murray said from his perch 18 rows behind home plate. "I come every night, and just about every night I see something different. But this was crazy."
To add to the rarity of the occurrence, after a 30-minute hiatus in their respective clubhouses, the teams had to return to the field, as the 30-3 contest was the first game of a doubleheader.
The Rangers' previous record for runs scored in both games of a twin bill was 21, which, of course, they didn't need to worry about by the time the second game rolled around.
"It was awesome," Rangers manager Ron Washington said. "The whole offense just came to life. I've never seen anything like it. I was hoping we would open up offensively, but I wasn't expecting anything like that."
To make sure the magnitude of Wednesday's record-breaking explosion hits home, peruse these staggering statistics:
• The Orioles' National Football League counterpart, the Ravens, haven't given up 30 points in a game since 2005.
• Baltimore ace Erik Bedard has allowed only 31 runs in his last 17 starts dating back to May 25.
• Texas scored more runs Wednesday than it had in its previous nine contests combined.
• Baltimore set a new franchise record for margin of defeat by ending in a 27-run deficit. The previous mark was a 19-run defeat in 1996, also at the hands of the Rangers.
• Even with a huge margin of victory, Wes Littleton earned his first save of the season by throwing three innings in relief.
• Texas starter Kason Gabbard, who pitched his fifth game with the Rangers after being traded from Boston before the trade deadline, saw his run support jump from 3.66 to 7.85 with his new team.
• The Rangers entered the game with the third-worst team batting average in the American League, but saw it jump five points to .258.
• The NFL's Houston Texans have scored at least 30 points only three times in the team's five-year existence.
• Texas had 57 at-bats, tying the AL record for a nine-inning game set by Milwaukee in 1992.
• The Rangers are the first team with four players (Metcalf, Byrd, Saltalamacchia and Vazquez) to register four RBIs since the Phillies in 1979.
• This is the sixth time that a team has scored 9 or more runs in two different innings
• Metcalf's four RBIs were more than he had in 35 games this season
• Texas' 30 RBIs set the Major League record for a single game since 1920, when that statistic was first recorded.

Geremy Bass is an associate reporter for MLB.com.