Stumbling Towards Eternity

June is Speaker's Month

2011-06-10T08:20:00.002-04:00

This is going to be an active month for my ministry here. With weddings of a special couple in our life. Also, we are headed to Alaska to speak for a pastor friend. I think I'll be doing a series concerning the Kingdom of God. God's personal rule over us during this church age.

The submission to God's rule over the believer is many times over looked.

A special day

2011-04-10T20:25:00.002-04:00

Four years ago a student at Boston Baptist College came with his wife to help me restore MBC. His desire to be active in the Lord's work permeated his life. Called at a later stage of life, with wife and two young children he went to Maine to start a church. In my opinion Maine along with Vermont are difficult areas to plant a church, especially in the rural areas. But there he believed that God had called him.

What made today's service special - First, he asked us to be his new sending church. But beyond that he had the privilege to baptize his mother-in-law. She is from the Philippians and was flying back home.

With lack of English - her daughter translated the questions - her responses - her face told it all.

What a day!

MBC's 1st Music Leader - now Pastor

2011-01-15T16:19:00.002-05:00

Jon Roe and his wife helped me when I was called to MBC. A struggling church of a dozen members. The church at the beginning probably felt "what did we get our selves into?" But Jon and Kathy stepped in and was a great support for us.
I had the privilege this last Fall to hold a "Missions" conference for him at the Londonderry Baptist Church in NH.
It will a joy to fellowship with them and have them minister the Word to this great congregation.

Welcome 2011

2011-01-02T08:36:00.001-05:00

January - named after the god Janus. A two-faced god that could look backward and forward. Looking to where he has been and where he is going. The Apostle Paul, however, tells us not to dwell upon that which is in our past, [Col 3:13] and not to let past defeats follow us, nor to live in the past victories.

I believe that the New Year mentality is necessary for God's people in order not to be trapped by the past. God setup two "New Years" for Israel. One, a secular New Year starting in the month of Tishri - Yom Kippur. Second, a religious New Year starting in month of Nisan - Passover season.

I am setting goals this year and not resolutions. Goals are measurable - reachable.

I get discouraged over resolutions.

Lord may my goals for this new year be your goals for my life.

November 6, 2010

2010-11-08T10:43:00.003-05:00

What a great privilege it is to visit with former students who are still following the Lord. Dan Q. is such a student. I [with my wife Greta] went to their home Sat. for the bridle shower for one of Dan's daughter. To sit a reminisce about what God has done in our lives since the 1980s. We never know how we have had an influence on the lives of our students. Those of us who teach - and fellowship with - puts us under the proverbial microscope. To hear the students say "I remember what you said about . . . " once again reminds me to be careful not to mislead them as they try to follow the Lord.

Thanks Dan for the fellowship while my wife was speaking to the ladies. It appears that you are going to have a great son-in-law.

Appreciation Sunday

2010-10-18T09:03:00.002-04:00

How do you praise a church? How can you really God for them? How do you personally thank the Lord for opening the a church, so I can full fill God's call on my life?

MBC favored us with a gifts and an afternoon fellowship with plenty of food. They even brought in a preacher - without my knowledge - and made me sit on the front row the entire time as other men conducted the service.

I believe in all my years of pastoring - 42yrs - how time flies - I have not been surprised by the church. I usually catch that something is going, but today was a complete surprise. The Message was great and the music consisted of my favorites.

Thank you Lord for a church that cares and has been supportive -0 in the up times and the down times.

Fall 2010

2010-09-21T16:39:00.002-04:00

Just a quick update concerning my health. They have put a stint in one of the arteries. The artery on the right side no longer functions - yet I do not have any related pain.
I decided not to teach this year. The first time since 1978 that I have not taught. It is a weird feeling to be at the church office and not in a classroom. But, life moves on and I trust that the students gained some help for their ministry for the Lord.
Just as a side note, I heard from Ralph Key this afternoon. He probably has been instrumental in the planting of churches, more that any man I know. It was a blessing to sit with him some 10 years ago as I became pastor of MBC.

Thank you everyone for your prayers
Guess the Lord has more for me to do.

Summer Summary 2010

2010-09-06T07:29:00.002-04:00

This Summer has been filled with a different focus other than a vacation time. Heart issues became a focus of weeks. A scheduled ordinary office visit had me headed to the cardiologist - to the heart surgeon - to three hospitals - to cardio rehab.
The decision to not teach this fall was very difficult. Having taught college courses since 1978 - Sept seems weird. But, I have peace about it - Is God directing me in a different direction - time will tell?

Heartbeat

2010-07-27T08:43:00.002-04:00

The past few weeks has been a exhausting week. Many trips to the heart specialists - heart stent implants - surgery repairs - stress tests - nuclear tests - and new medications. However, God is good, all-the-time. The heart repairs are seem to be working, guess God wants me here a little longer. May I use it wisely.

July - Holy Spirit

2010-07-07T17:59:00.002-04:00

The series concerning the Holy Spirit concludes this month. Last month, my wife reminded me that I had never done a series concerning the H.S. In looking back over numerous years of preaching, she was right. This month I am demonstrating that the HS has been given a "job description" as his work order during this NT period. With TV "ministries" who tend to make the HS more important than Christ, they promote a direct violation of Jesus defining the Spirit's ministry.
I wonder if many of God's people in our churches really are sensitive to the work of the HS. I hate to think that many do not have the indwelling HS, therefor, are self-deceived as to their salvation and the sealing work of the HS.

Saying Goodbye

2010-06-05T20:07:00.002-04:00

Life sends us many experiences which either tests our faith or challenges our faith.
I have had many men who have been a great help to me in my service for the Lord.
Dana Peaslee is such a man. This dear man and his wife, Jesse, have been there for us when we were spiritually exhausted, yes, weary in well doing. Many do not understand the pressure that is imposed on us who pastor God's people. Shepherding a number of adults with various needs and demands can wear anyone down. I was never a one to talk about the load - I guess I never learned to cast all my care on Him. Dana is dying of colon cancer. He decided not to take radiation therapy three years ago. He, being 87 years old, still has a smile and "Howdy Preacher" when we meet together. Canasta is his favorite game, and a daily activity when we are together with our wives. I will miss him - Dana - if you read this - I'll expect you to meet me at the gate.

Update on Haiti

2010-04-28T11:38:00.002-04:00

The church has had the honor of having a family which survived the earthquake.
I have mixed feelings about their situation. First, I am amazed at their attitude, after having lost everything. Second, I ask myself what would be my reaction if I suddenly lost all my material blessings. I am remined of a line from a song "he giveth more grace". God always come through when tragedies darken our path.

Haiti Feb 2010

2010-02-21T08:33:00.003-05:00

One of the great blessing of being a pastor is to watch God's people respond to a crisis.
We had a number of families directly affected by the earthquake
This Sunday, one of the surviving families will be here at the church
I am confident that they will be accepted with open arms
Thanks again MBC for the privilege of being your pastor

Church Anniversary

2010-01-24T08:24:00.002-05:00

This month MBC is 110 years old. Incorporated at the turn of a century the future looked great for that congregation. Over the years the church had the normal ups and downs that any church goes through over the years.
The cycles of growth - platue - decline -growth - etc. are common to 99% of all churches. The emotions of the congregation will normally follow the life cycle of a church.
The challenge is always to focus on who is in charge of this congregation. Jesus or the congregation, Jesus or the Boards, Jesus or the Pastor, or is it Jesus?
Let us never hinder his work in our community. When we do our part - He does his [Acts 2:47].
That does not mean that church work goes smoothly, the story of the early church is anything but smooth. Internal problems and external pressures became part of the everyday expedience of that church. Yet, they survived - because Jesus was in charge.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-24T18:40:00.002-05:00

Much of the church world has honored the Advent season. Is it really the beginning of a new year? Christ has come - we hear the angelic message - but peace? As I was on my way to the church today to make sure the building would be ready for Sunday - as I passed the Liquor store, boxes of "Christmas Cheer" was being loaded into double parked cars. How sad, people must drown their heartaches in order to be "of good cheer".
Peace via governments, organization, fraternities, etc., is still a grand illusion.

May we as people of Christ be not deluded by the music, lights, gifts, and ceremonies.
Many will sit in our pews - saddened by this time of year. Lets not forget that many do not have a family to surround themselves with - you be their "good news" on a day of God's good news - Jesus.

Christmas Snow Again

2009-12-20T12:25:00.002-05:00

Who said history does not repeat itself has not been to our church.
The same snow event also closed our church last year for the Christmas services.
I spoke last night for a fellowship of Haitian pastors on the sovereignty of God.
i just admit, I had to repeat the topic to myself this morning as I looked out the window.
After calling the members of the church - I do this personally for each closer - I was encouraged by the response of the church family.
No one - NO ONE - complained about was happening. Spiritual growth is great to witness. They ended up encouraging me.

Thank you Lord for your call on my life to shepherd your people.
Merry Christmas everyone

Advent Season

2009-11-28T19:11:00.003-05:00

Do We Need the Advent Season? Yes . . .
Jeremiah 33: 14-21 Isaiah 11:1-10
To Remember God’s Promises
To See The Performance of His Promises
To See The Person of His Promises
To See The Provision of His Promises

Daniel 6

2009-10-15T11:12:00.001-04:00

"The King of the animals could not defeat the King of the earth" anon
We should have the confidence of the Hebrew men.

Romans 5 Offending God

2009-10-03T18:08:00.002-04:00

Romans 5 is on my schedule for Sunday. Paul once again deals with personal responsibility - accountability for our actions. I noticed that Thayer said an offense is a "deviation from truth and uprightness". It seems to be identified with the outcome of "amartia". It is a purposeful activity and not accidental in nature [paraptwma]. BB Taylor wrote that it consists of a "wrecked relationship with God." I fear we have become so callosed by sin that we do not even care if we offend a fellow believer [whom we can see], let alone God [whom we cannot see] .

Tour Through Romans

2009-09-26T16:00:00.002-04:00

Romans 4:1-25
I have never preached through the book of Romans before this month. [It will continue]. My plan is to select a certain chiasm of each chapter. Paul tells us about being among the blessed (4: 7). It is great to be reminded of that now and then. When we become weary in well doing - it becomes even more urgent to remember our position before God.

Labor Day 2009

2009-09-06T16:55:00.001-04:00

There was a recent conference in Scotland which contains messages concerning the preaching style of Bunyan (and others).

Edinburgh Expositors Conference Audio

http://unashamedworkman.wordpress.com/

Summer Musings

2009-08-10T20:18:00.002-04:00

How quickly the months go by. Apologize for the lack of attention to this blog. The sad news is that another Baptist church closed here in my area. I wished that I had known that it was in the process of closing. Perhaps , by God's grace, we could have kept the doors open.

I have been reading the Torah this summer and with that in mind - I'll comment of the sections I am studying.

I just finished the first 6 chapters of Leviticus. God graciously let His people bring a variety of offerings to be sacrificed. Each person was responsible to bring sacrifice to God. The level of responsibility was according to the ability to achieve the necessary obedience. We often try to match what others are able to bring to God's table. Competition and ego often spell disastrous results. God knows what we are able to bring to Him and He accepts us, not by what we ultimately bring, but the hearts desire to bring it is more important.

Do You Need to be Encouraged? 2

2009-05-31T08:45:00.002-04:00

I had a sad occurrence yesterday. I learned that First Baptist in Milton, Ma is folding their tent. After so many years of labor - they made the very difficult choice to close their ministry.

It unfortunately a sign of the slow death of our Baptist heritage here in Boston - Milton. What could have been done - is only second guessing the the hearts and mind of the congregation. I hope that they will go to another Baptist church here in the area. Mattapan Baptist here in Milton came to a similar situation 12 years ago. By the grace of God, they were able to keep their congregation from further deterioration. I wish the best for this congregation - memories will linger -memories of weddings, funerals, baptisms, and of course the great times of fellowship.

Do You Need To Be Encouraged?

2009-05-23T19:56:00.007-04:00

Baptist churches - New England
I was reminded again today [Sat] of the heritage that Baptist have here in New England. This in spite of the encroaching lack of a biblically based theology concerning the local church, etc. There remains churches that have ministered here for the last 150 years. Modern day members have read the history of their church when it blossomed with converts and members. Now they watch their church enter a survival mode of activities. I still believe that when a church is functioning in a simple and biblical mode, people will be reached for Christ and the believers will mature. Our communities are full of people who have been hurt by church members and pastors. they also need to be reached. There are certain steps a body of believers can do and once again see their church become effective for the Lord.
I'll introduce some basic ideas in future posts.

Graduation - Class 2009

2009-05-20T12:54:00.002-04:00

when I see the results of the hours of preparation, lecturing, an counseling the students that enter the class room - It is well worth the effort. they risen to the task that God has laid out for them. Years of study to be the best they can be for the Lord. Many are here because someone prayed for them. The world that they step into if far different than the one I entered many years ago. Yet, they will be able to handle it - because they are of this generation. As was stated last night - some will "crash and burn", other will "set themseves on fire" for the work of the Lord. May they not be of the first group.

Richard Baxter

2009-05-13T08:54:00.002-04:00

Found this great quote on Puritan at Heart
"He is not drowning His sheep when He washeth them, nor killing them when He is shearing them. But by this He showeth that they are His own; and the newborn sheep do most visibly bear His name or mark, when it is almost worn out and scarce discernible on them that have the longest fleece."

---Richard Baxter

Bunyan and Jerusalem

2009-04-26T09:02:00.001-04:00

Daily Quote - John Bunyan

Written by Jean Cauvin

25 April 2009 13:58

In a word, Jerusalem was now become the shambles, the very slaughter-shop for saints ...wherein the prophets, Christ and his people were most horribly persecuted and murdered...This is the city and these are the people; this is their character and these are their sins.
I will now show you what it is to preach the gospel to them: [to announce] repentance and remission of sins in Christ's Name.. to bid them to repent and believe the gospel [Luke 24:47; Mark 1:15].
Christ would have Jerusalem have the first offer of the gospel. Not because they had any more right than any of the nations of the world, [but to manifest] his mere grace... compassion... and mercy [to those] in the most deplorable condition of any people under the heavens.
---John Bunyan

http://www.apuritanatheart.com/puritanism

Rest of your Life

2009-04-24T18:53:00.001-04:00

Quote is not original with me - but does point out the time each one of us has to prepare for eternity

"Q: How long does a skydiver have to open his parachute once he's jumped out of the plane?"
"A: The rest of his life"

"What a concise statement of theology! Like the skydiver who carries the means of his salvation with him, we have a "parachute" -- God's forgiveness and unconditional love for us. We need only open the chute -- ask Him to catch our fall -- and we will be saved from the singular lethal impact that awaits each of us"

Easter Sunday 2009

2009-04-13T12:03:00.002-04:00

I always like to see both Christmas and Easter on the calendar. This always provides my congregation with a great opportunity to invite friends and family to church. The story of Christ's resurrection has been told for almost 2,000 years. As I was preparing for the service the comment of the angels "He is not here" raised the question "Where is He?" Where and what is He doing for us. This tended to develop the ministry of Christ toward His church: High Priest; Advocate; intercessor; Church builder; Home [Mansion] preparer and preparing to return for His people.

The building was about 95% full. The music was fantastic as it told of Christ providing salvation for his people.

CUME - Boston

2009-04-03T12:20:00.002-04:00

I had the great privileged last night to teach at Gordon-Conwell's Boston campus. The lead prof was Frank Kelly. I was able to share some biblical principles concerning church finances. The students represented a cross section of ministries here in Boston. The class discussuions were challanging and insightful. I trust that I was able to help them to look closely at the Sriptures for direction on the collection of the finances of God's people and the need to be accountable for the use of those monies.
C.U.M.E. is dear to my heart for they provided the open door for me to enter the grad world of education here in N.E.
Each of the seminaries that I have attended [4 in all] had some great profs who loved the Lord and were willing to help me to persue God's call on my life. Little did I know the path that God set up for some 40yrs ago and the adventure has been worth every trial and blessing.
Thanks again Bro Tully for the gracious invitation - trust it was benefial to the students.

Greece 2

2009-03-22T08:25:00.003-04:00

The trip to that part of the world is a awesome experience. [can you believe I used that word :>) ]
To once again stand where Paul stood on Mars Hill, visit the island where John was a prisoner, and to walk the street of Ephesus was humbling to say the least. I look back on the experience as if it were a dream.

If you are ever in Athens, near the Acropolis, you must eat at SMILES. What a great place.

Since coming back, I decided to walk through the book of Ephesians with the church. Paul's love for this church [and John's] is encouraging for the present church to see that God really does love them. His point that they are known for their love for each other - is a testimony that each church should wish upon themselves.

Today I will share the 6 "Spiritual Blessings" that God has given to each believer. See Eph 1:3-14.

Trip to Greece

2009-03-01T08:09:00.002-05:00

I am looking forward once again to go the Athens, Greece. To stand on Mars Hill - and remember that Paul stood where I am standing - brings a flood of memories. Athens needs to have a Paul visit once again. A gospel of works is everywhere. much of that which is called "Christianity" is bound up with the worship of the mother of Jesus - instead of Jesus.

The same problem haunts us here in our churches. We are starting to worship the programs of the church. The drive to meet the selfish needs of the public is the leaven that simple inflates the selfish egos of sinful man.

The self-centeredness of even fellow Christians is appalling to say the lest. The mind of Christ is clearly absent in many of our newer churches. Paul's comment that the unsaved do not seek after God is ignored [Romans 3:11] . People are told that they are seeking God - in contradiction to God's Word.

Shine for the Lord

2009-01-25T16:08:00.003-05:00

It has been a month since we have had a normal Sunday morning service. NO SNOW!!
I adopted a theme for this year - "Let us shine in 2009" based upon Matt 5

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

It is the individual believer's responsibility to make sure your "Shine" [ imper aor act 3rd per sing] is always visible to the public. Each of the acts should bring glory to God. Remember the world is watching you all the time.

How will you SHINE this week?

Christmas

2008-12-24T20:59:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe that another year has passed. Christmas, with all of the rush, is a time to relax and reflect on God's great mercy toward us. It is great privilege to spend ones life for the Saviour. I now have seen 67 Christmases. Each year brings me further along this journey. The trials will one day seem so small - regrets - failures - will no longer be remembered. "What a day that will be when my Saviour I see"
Merry Christmas everyone

December 2008 Christmas

2008-12-04T11:38:00.001-05:00

I started a series on the prohesies concerning the coming of Israel's Messiah.
It is amazing how many OT references seem to refer to a proposal of the event.
Whatever view of history one developes, the understanding of Daniel's explanation (via Gabriel)

TBC - 11 Years of God's Blessing

2008-11-16T08:18:00.002-05:00

Once again, I had the privilege to attend the celebration of the Tabernacle Baptist Congregation here in Boston. It does not seem possible that 11 years ago that I and Pastor Bill Smith (West Bridgewater) sat down with Abide Alexandre to listen to his burden for a new church in the Haitian community. Many of the Haitian churches here are very weak doctrinally. As a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary - years ago - he shared with us the need of a strong Baptist church here in Boston. They used our church building for a number of years and quickly outgrew the facilities. After purchasing an building here, the Lord quickly filled it to capacity - with over 700 in attendance. As I sat there last night it once again renewed my burden to reach the immigrant community with the gospel. God has blessed us with a church full of immigrants - many of whom are already citizens - both of this country and citizens of Heaven.

10-30-08Mystery Worshippers

2008-10-30T14:49:00.003-04:00

I can't believe that month has past since my last post
In my Pastoral Strategies class, I introduced the "mystery worshipper" strategy. If you are not aware of this program - a person visits your church service with a number of factors to judge. There are about 10 factors that they observe. Factors range from the initial greeting, music, message, after service fellowship and departure from the building.

The evaluation process I felt was a little subjective. The person who evaluates the serve may have a different church heritage than the one being visited. Personal like/dislikes appear - really - neutrality would be impossible.

The Ship-of-Fools.com website lists the results of many such visits. The value of the observations rest in pointing out of areas of concern to each of us in the Lord's work on Sunday.

When I visit a church - and unknown to them - I have used the list of factors - It is interesting to be visitor - especially when we [pastors] are usually occupied with pulpit matters.

The list of factors might be a good place to start to evaluate of services - even when done an in-house [member] observer. It is amazing how little things [foxes] can spoil a church program.

Sept 28, 2008 A Special Day

2008-09-28T08:16:00.003-04:00

Sunday is always a special day for me. Gathering with God's people encourages me more than I can say. To hear their conversations, their singing, and their attention to God's word even when the preaching is .........
[you fill in the blank]
Also, today my family will be gathering to celebrate my birthday - how quickly the years go by.
I'll be speaking today from 1 Thess 1:1-10. Paul's heartfelt positive opinion of this church should encourage us to model that church. The Lord will be returning - what will His opinion be of us? - really, the only opinion that really matters.

Jonah 4 Why Are You Angry

2008-09-21T18:03:00.003-04:00

It is amazing how we react when God does it differently than we expect from Him. Jonah, a reluctant prophet, has fulfilled the task that God has asked of him. He doesn't want the Ninevites to repent, he wants God's judgment to fall upon them. They had been brutal in their relationship with Israel. But Jonah knows that God may possibly forgive them, but Jonah disagrees with God.
Being on the opposite page of God is not a comfortable place to find oneself. We say that we are wiling to follow the Lord, yet it seems He is going to places unknown to us. Our places are comfortable, secure, and without the fear of the unknown. We want to plan the agenda for our lives and confident that we are smarter than He is and presumptuous that we fully know God's will.
Jonah will learn a lesson in the extent of God's compassion for rebellious people. He puts up with them - more that I am able to endure. Lord, help me to be compassionate with people - Lord, please give them one more day to repent.. Amen

Jonah 2

2008-09-15T17:00:00.002-04:00

The lesson from Jonah is that God never gives up on us. No one enjoys being chastised for disobedience. God is not thwarted by my disobedience. Each of us must contemplate carefully to be sure we are where God wants us to be - doing what He wants us to do. God's will is not that hard to find - we complicate the process. Pressure from those about us who often impose their understanding of God's will for us. I fear many have so individualize God's will that we are trapped and frustrated by the subjectivism of our own minds.

The will for Jonah was to get God's message to Nineveh. How to get there was Jonah's choice. What to eat, wear, and time frame was left up to Jonah. I fear we make God responsible for the smallest details for successfully serving Him. God's will for each believer is in the Scripture - not in society, etc. A careful search of "God's will" within the NT will shorten most every one's list.

The life of a believer is simple outlined and illustrated many times. I understand that God has asked me to be a pastor-teacher (Eph. 5). When and where I accomplish my assigned task - God has left up to me. The point of obedience is that I do the task set before me.

Jonah - Running from God

2008-09-01T08:24:00.002-04:00

The story of Jonah's flight from God intrigues us all. What captured my attention was that he was willing to die in his disobedience. How many will go to their deathbed willing to die disobedient to God's call on their life? What a statement for many of God's people - knowing what God would have them to do and not attempting to accomplish the task.

Keswick August 29, 2008

2008-08-29T17:56:00.002-04:00

I didn't realize the length of time from the last post. August has been a great month - yet wearisome. We just spent the end of this month at a Bible Conference grounds called "America's Keswick". If you are not familiar with this place - it is a true retreat from the world. Situated in whiting, NJ. Keswick features great music, speakers, and especially free from TV, and computers. I was there during the DNC -and believe or not - they didn't need my attention or impute.
As I am getting ready to speak Sunday - [preach] I am anxious to see how God will led this church this fall. We need a revival - I need a revival.

Acts 22

2008-07-26T20:38:00.002-04:00

This passage struck me as a simple formula for fulling my responsibilities at MBC. First of all, my primary responsibility is to my wife. Being both husband and pastor to her - is often overwhelming. Second, my responsibility to my Lord. Loving Him, obeying Him, and talking about him and what He has done for me. Third, To lead the people that the Lord has granted me the privilege to lead - to feed - to protect. Often the task is really greater than anyone can do without the Lord. In my early ministry - I relied upon my strength - as I mature in the Lord - I find that i do not really have the strength necessary for the task to which I am called. Paul's experiences in Acts 22, helps me to realize that in the trials - i must focus on the Lord and not the circumstances about me of which I have little control.

Can't wait to see what the Lord will bring to pass tomorrow.

Acts 19 Jesus I Know - Paul I know But

2008-07-13T18:10:00.002-04:00

In Acts 19:15, Luke makes an interesting comparison between the evil spirit's experience with Jesus and Paul. First, Luke says that the spirit's knowledge of Jesus is of a first hand experience, ginosko. Jesus has dealt with him [evidently] in the past, re: Gospel accounts.
Second, the spirit's knowledge of Paul is epistamai, i.e., to put one's attention on. The spirit has watch Paul's reaction to the difficulties that were sent his way. Paul's reaction was always the same - no matter what, Paul used each trial, tribulation, beatings, imprisonment, demon possessed girl, the same way - he talk about Jesus.
What an example - for us today.

Defending The Faith 06-21-2008

2008-06-21T19:47:00.003-04:00

Ron Minton led off with a quote of a past scholar concerning the reliability of of God's Word. "This interesting quote is more than a century old. It is not just in this generation that men have come forward to defend God's Word. As a presuppositionalist, I do not need evidence to believe God's Word is true - I simply believe it because of the testimony of Jesus. However, it is nice to have had scholars who have defended it with great vigor. Ron Minton"
"If the foundations be overthrown, what shall the righteous do? On the four Gospels Christianity very much depends for its most momentous truths and facts. Hence it is that the Infidel and the Deist, with their unnatural ally the rationalizing Christian professor, have directed their attacks to the task of sapping these foundations. How unsuccessful as yet these repeated attempts of negative criticism have been, may be seen from the fact that the assault is repeated again and again. Infidelity, we are sure, would not waste her strength in thrice slaying the slain, or in raking away the ruins of a structure which has been demolished already. If the objections of Paulus and Eichhorn had been successful, the world would never have heard of Baur and the school of Tubingen. And again, if the Tubingen school had prevailed, there would not have been any room for the labours of such destructive critics as Volckmar of Zurich and others. The latest attack is, we are told, to be the last, until it fails, and another is prepared more threatening than the former. Thus every wave which beats against the rock of eternal truth seems to rise out of the trough caused by some receding wave, and raises its threatening crest as if it would wash away the rock. These waves of the sea are mighty, and rage terribly, but the Lord who sitteth on high is mightier. It is of the nature of truth, that the more it is tested the more sure it becomes under the trial. So it has been with the argument for the genuineness of the Gospels. The more that infidels have sought to shake the character of St. John's Gospel, the more collateral proofs have started up of the apostolic character of this Gospel."

I posted a comment concerning the fact (perhaps faulty on my part) that I didn't see many in the BBFI who held a presuppositionalist position. The reaction my comment was (on their part) an amazement that I didn't know any on the list who were presuppositionalist. A number of the brethern brought me up to speed ;>)

With so much of the available literature concerning the faith, man-centered, as if the mind of man determines truth. God's word does not to be protected, but simple proclaimed. The Holy Spirit is able to apply God's Word without our feeble mental attempts to convince the unregenerate man.

Reflections 6-17-08

2008-06-17T15:06:00.002-04:00

We had a great day at MBC yesterday with a young couple going to a foreign mission field. Beau and Valarie Moore going to the country of Portugal. They seem so young and full of dreams in serving the Lord. There is something special about serving the Lord in the prime of their lives. The glow of anticipation was so evident as they presented their dreams to us.

I envy them - and wish I could start all over again (with the knowledge I now have - right - as my friend says "when pigs fly). They will face many trials as the serve our Lord. But, with the eyes of faith they will see the fruit of their labors. One person repenting of their sin of rejection and accepting Christ as Savor will make it worth while.

Reflections

2008-06-09T08:23:00.002-04:00

It was so hot at church yesterday. I was surprised that anyone showed up. Their dedication to the Lord's work is inspiring.
We tried to use powerpoint during the message - it was very hard to stay on course - so I confused the comp tech - many times.

This is going to be a busy week - with family obligations - church event planning - personal study time, etc.

I was fascinated by the events recorded in Acts 9. The conversion account of Saul to Paul. it was interesting to see the dramatic change in his life. The real key to me was the idea that if there no change - then conversion has not happened. BTW - one person accepted Christ - made the hot auditorium well worth the time spent in the "oven".

Reflections

2008-06-01T08:22:00.002-04:00

It is good to be home.
Our visit to Colorado was a blessing in disguise. The Peaslee's went out of their way to make the trip more than worthwhile. However, if I never see a Canasta deck for the next 30 days - I will not be disappointed - but then we'll see if we can't revive the contest.

Books are an important part of my life. Every once-in-a-while, a certain book will grab my attention. The work of a Rabbi, Gateway to the Torah is such a book. It is refreshing to have familiar material presented with Jewish insights.

I'll comment on each chapter over the next few weeks.

Reflections

2008-05-17T19:05:00.002-04:00

5-17-2008
In preparing for the message tomorrow - I was struck by the simple way that Philip used to effectively witness to the Ethiopian [Acts 8]. i think that we have a tendency to make the process difficult. It is true that you need to have a basic grasp of the Gospel and what it entails.

I am leaving next Wednesday to visit a former Deacon [diagnosed with Cancer at the age of 87]. . . he has been a source of great encouragement over the years. Basically, he has let me be me. If there is to be list of those who have supported the pastors of the churches where he was a member - he is on that list with honor. Sometimes he has been brutally honest - especially when I needed that honesty. Other times - he has been that gentle soul with an immediate smile - humor - and sounding board for my soul.

He and his precious wife have been an oasis in life where we took refuge.

Reflections - Mother's Day

2008-05-10T21:13:00.003-04:00

For many of us, the presence of women in our lives is a great asset. It always amuses me that when an athlete wins - he/she thanks "Mom".

The absence of men in the lives of young people is proving to be disastrous. Young women never know the relationship with a male figure in order to compare him with young man she going to date/marry.

The burden is often left to the women of the household to teach their daughters that relationships will govern the rest of their lives. In today's world, women - especially single parents - have an awesome task. The burden of providing an income, managing the house, and fulfilling her spiritual obligations is daunting - to say the least. Somehow a godly women called Lydia was able to balance her extremely busy life and keep her relationship with Lord intact.

Reflections

2008-05-06T12:40:00.003-04:00

Sunday's attendance amazed me - it was rainy - cold - but they showed up. My concern as a pastor is that people understand that the opportunity to serve the Lord - is not confined to a Deacon board.

Acts 6 was the introduction of the qualifications of those who wish to serve the Lord effectively: good reputation; personal life under the control of the H.S. and a practical use of their skills -wisdom if the Lord's work.

Next week I want to to pursue the the activity of a church remember apart from a church activity. God's people need the prompting of the HS to respond to someone about their spiritual inquirers. (sp?)

Evening Reflections

2008-04-20T17:50:00.005-04:00

Preached from Acts 3. "Spiritual Lameness" God's people are often hindered in their pursuit of the Lord. Various factors in our past can hinder our spiritual growth. Family, friends, church members, husbands, wives, etc. The only cure is the same as was offered to the lame beggar - Jesus Christ. Economics will never be the ultimate cure for people who have been emotionally injured. This man could not look beyond the physical problems - he had a real physical problem. In our culture we have a tendency to throw money at difficulties and are constantly disappointed when the desired results do not materialize. We forget that "the weapons of our war are spiritual - not carnal (of a physical nature).
Perhaps the first step is to recognize the damage that we have done to ourselves (self-inflicted). Then admit that we have been injured by other people under various circumstances. The injuries are as real as the lameness of the beggar.
No matter how simplistic it may appear - Jesus is the "Balm of Gilead" for the soul injured by the sins of others.

Evening Reflections

2008-04-10T10:38:00.003-04:00

Attendance was great at last night's Bible Study. we have been doing an in depth study on the person/work of Jesus.

The topic was Jesus in reference to sin and sinning. One of the things I drew their attention to was the absence or presence of the definite article before the word for sin [hamartia]. Usually when the definite article appears it is referencing a specific sin [sinful] activity. Without the definite article ['the'][remember there is not an indefinite article in Greek text] it is referring to sin as having the qualities of sin - usually in reference to the "sin nature".

Evening Reflections 4-7-08

2008-04-07T14:36:00.004-04:00

What a great day yesterday. The church honored my wife Greta with roses and cake reception. In the afternoon my youngest daughter (I only have two), husband and grand-kids came down to celebrate. It was strange to have Greta fix her own birthday meal, but she insisted. she felt sorry for me - being bedridden for the better part of a week - slipped disk.
The morning church service went OK. I spoke from Acts 11-14, The church of "one accord". The church needed to be in one accord in Prayer - Vision and Purpose. It is really amazing what we can accomplish when everyone is on the same page spiritually. Looking forward to see that the manifestation of this unity in the church.

Unity in the Church

2008-04-05T21:11:00.005-04:00

As I am getting ready for the services tomorrow, the passage in Acts 1, the pharse "one accord" has been impressed upon me. We will be having Lord's Table and I desire to see the the church unified as to what is our purpose here at MBC. I have come to realize that even little disturbances in a congregation can become like a "pimple on the nose" appearing larger than it is - but needs to be dealt with non-the-less.

BBC Classes

2008-03-31T14:13:00.001-04:00

The purpose of this area is to react to the reaction of the college lectures in which I participate.

Evening Reflections

2008-03-29T18:09:00.003-04:00

"As I walked through the wilderness of this world . . . .”
John Bunyan

March 30, 2008 One of the efforts of this blog site is to reflect upon what has happened on this Lord's day. I seldom know how the service will go ahead of time. It is always interesting to watch what the Lord does in the hearts of His gathered people.

What a great day in the Lord's house. speaking from Luke 24, I spoke on the reasons for the men saying "did not our hearts burn." The negative here is used in questions when an affirmative answer is expected. the reality of their walk with Jesus produced a result that they could emotionally identify.

Caused by the fact that
1• They spent time with Jesus

2. They patiently listened as He opened the Scriptures to them.

3. They learned that that which disappoints you may just be the best thing for you.

The Music was great - specials touched hearts - I was refreshed. Strange how that we who preach are refreshed by that preaching.