Rest and Reflect

What’s The Font? Is a useful Chrome extension January 15, 2012

https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/ipooogmmnpmfmhbhlahhjkjiiamjllal

GBridge allows you to set up a free VPN January 15, 2012

http://www.google.com/enterprise/marketplace/viewListing?productListingId=5619303+11654411784860340142

Connectify lets you turn your notebook into a WiFi access point January 9, 2012

http://www.connectify.me

Adventist Home p. 200-1 January 7, 2012

Tending the Garden—The prevailing influence in the world is to suffer the youth to follow the natural turn of their own minds. And if very wild in youth, parents say they will come right after a while and, when sixteen or eighteen years of age, will reason for themselves and leave off their wrong habits and become at last useful men and women. What a mistake! For years they permit an enemy to sow the garden of the heart; they suffer wrong principles to grow, and in many cases all the labor afterward bestowed on that soil will avail nothing….

Some parents have suffered their children to form wrong habits, the marks of which may be seen all through life. Upon the parents lies this sin. These children may profess to be Christians; yet without a special work of grace upon the heart and a thorough reform in life, their past habits will be seen in all their experience, and they will exhibit just the character which their parents allowed them to form.

The young should not be suffered to learn good and evil indiscriminately, with the idea that at some future time the good will predominate and the evil lose its influence. The evil will increase faster than the good. It is possible that after many years the evil they have learned may be eradicated; but who will venture this? Time is short. It is easier and much safer to sow clean, good seed in the hearts of your children than to pluck up the weeds afterward. Impressions made upon the minds of the young are hard to efface. How important, then, that these impressions be of the right sort, that the elastic faculties of youth be bent in the right direction.

Squarespace – Build Your Own Site; Disqus – Comment Engine January 3, 2012

If you want to build your own site, make it look professional with customisable templates on the fly, and are willing to pay a small price, Squarespace is for you.  Gone are the days of raw HTML coding in a text editor.  You don’t have to fiddle with a Drupal, Joomla or Mambo CMS.  Squarespace has widgets allowing you to integrate with Flickr and Twitter.  You can add a forum with their pre-build modules.

And while you’re at it.  Why not use Disqus to allow people to interact on your website.  It’s realtime and integrates with Facebook Connect.

Run Your Own Cloud Server January 2, 2012

Pogoplug

Tonido

Depression December 13, 2011

Chronic stress is toxic to the soul
The natural response to discouragement is to withdraw
To withdraw from the things that maintain good health – physically, mentally, socially and spiritually
Eventually this will lead to depression (hopelessness), frustration (anger) and anxiety (fear)

Domains of Life: Spiritual – Psychological – Mental – Body – Social
And where is your centre?

How does one build resilience and maintain good health? We all have 24 hours each day. We should aim to reduce the soul-destroying (frustrating, boring) activities and events of the day. And aim instead to maximise the healthy outcome of those 24 hours. Develop good health habits:

• rest well
• get sunlight, avoid artificial light (including TV and computer)
• eat and drink for health
• be physically active
• deliberately think realistically, concretely and positively
• be connected – socially and spiritually*
• practice relaxation, avoid unnecessary stimulation (e.g. movies, internet, loud music)
• place yourself in positive situations, create an uplifting environment (e.g. relaxing music, aromatherapy)
• watch, listen to and read good things; have things to laugh about
• focus on speaking on good things
• be outwardly focused and service oriented
• avoid substances that might impair
• dream about the future, reflect on the past in a positive light (celebrate/give thanks)
• have things to look forward to

* [God]-[Me]-[Others] triangle. Are you drifting without an anchor? Or are you well connected to God (spiritual), others (social) and are you connecting others to God (service).

The pyramid – God at the apex, Personal health/growth/development, Family/Friends, Work/Education/Finance, Service/Community

Then when you’ve regained some of your strength, work on the stress in your life:

• troubleshoot your interpersonal relationships (which may involve setting boundaries, or cutting off toxic people)
• simplify your work (which may involve leaving your current job)
• problem solve the pressures in your life
• re-centre the mind on your values and priorities:
  • “de-compare” – stop looking at others and evaluating your life using the value systems of others
  • redefine the purpose and meaning of your life – e.g. raising your children is your priority and is a worthy pursuit and you have an irreplaceable role in their lives; your “dead end” job is a period of learning new professional skills and overall character development so that you can face the task ahead of you
• work on realistic thinking:
• challenge unhealthy thoughts (about the past, the present circumstances and the future)
  • think honestly
  • think realistically
  • think concretely
  • think objectively
  • think “by faith and not by sight”
• accept your limitations
  • your imperfection
  • the imperfection of others
  • the world is and never will be as it should be
  • most things in life will always be out of your control – do you do things expecting, or hoping for, a specific outcome? That will only lead to disappointment. Things are not going to and don’t have to work out a certain way.
• set goals: commit to change what you can – one baby step at a time

Thoughts on happiness itself:

• Do not sacrifice happiness for success
• Happiness/Suffering (Attitudinal), Success/Failure (Subjective), and Objective Reality are on 3 different parallel planes. They never intersect and are not determined by one another.
• Success does not buy happiness, because the goal posts of what defines “good enough” and “I’ve made it” are constantly shifted
• Similarly, suffering with negative feelings is not the inevitable consequence of “failure” or bad circumstances
• Our subjective appraisal of the objective reality depends a lot on what our expectations are. One person might consider a B grade a success, another might feel it is below their usual standards. A man might be yelled at by different people, but it hurts most when his wife is upset with him because he expects love and understanding from her.
• If anything, happiness is a necessary substrate to live a productive life. Fulfilment comes before Success.

Resources – some ideas derived from:
Dr John Warlow – Wholly Coping

http://www.christianwholeness.com

C. onnect
U. nderstand
R. espond
E. ngage

4 selfs:
Self-esteem
Self-identity
Self-control
Self-centeredness – the only self that needs to die

Square (where are you heading?) – above/below the water level; self/God-centred

Darren Morton – Seven Secrets for Feeling Fantastic

http://www.sevensecretsforfeelingfantastic.com/

Out of the heart the mouth speaks December 11, 2011

You have never died to the world. You still love its pleasures; you love to engage in conversation on worldly matters.  But when the truth of God is introduced, you have nothing to say.  Why so silent!  Why so talkative upon worldly things, and so silent upon the subject that should most concern you,—a subject that should engage your whole soul?  The truth of God does not dwell in you.
—Testimonies for the Church 1:159.

Modern Cultural Pressures that lead to Depression November 27, 2011

Brief notes from a chapter by Edward Welch – Depression a Stubborn Darkness

1. Decisions
We are bombarded by many decisions.  At a young age.  There is a pressure to make the right decisions and a fear of making mistakes. What results is a fatigue and helplessness as we try to control the uncontrollable (life). We feel that we have somehow failed if we do not have all that we had planned or hoped.

2. Individualism
Loss of community and family.  Self-driven life, rather than one in which you have companions on the journey.

3. Self-indulgence
Whatever “feels good”.  “Follow your heart.”  Resultant emptiness, dissatisfaction. We think that indulging our desires will somehow satisfy.

C.S. Lewis: “If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.”

4. “One more”
Achieved something and found it empty.  Reach for the next thing that will “make me happy”.  Had delayed gratification for future happiness, but it wasn’t worth it in the end.

5. Self-esteem
Need to feel good about ourselves.  Cognitive dissonance when we discover that we are not the best, can’t do everything and can’t have it all.  The only options are depression or denial.

6. Happiness idol
Happiness becomes the purpose of life.  Avoid suffering at all costs.  If suffering exists, something must be wrong.  If there are hardships in a relationship – end it.  If there are unpleasant emotions – medicate it.  Unable to handle disappointment.  But suffering is a part of life.

7. Entertainment and Boredom
Inability to tolerate peace.  To meditate (on God, Phil 4:8).  We must fill life with “stuff”.  We never take time to relax and enjoy.

Blaise Pascal: “The sole cause of man’s unhappiness is that he does not know how to stay quietly in his room.”

7 Questions that will define your life November 11, 2011

We are creatures of HABIT. We are the product of what we keep doing.
1. What are your UNHEALTHY HABITS?
2. What are your HEALTHY HABITS?

We are creatures of CHOICE. We are the result of the decisions we make.
3. What are your PRIORITIES (or values)?
4. What are your BOUNDARIES?

The difference between what goes IN and what comes OUT is who we are. Like photographic film you become what you are EXPOSED to and IMMERSED in.
RE: FAT MESS
5. Where do you DWELL?
Rest & Reflect (Do you sleep well? Do you meditate? Do you relax?)
Environment (Where do you spend your time? Who do you surround yourself with? What situations do you allow yourself to get into?)
6. What do you PUT IN?
Food & Drink
Activity (Physical Exercise)
Thoughts
Media (Eyes and Ears – What are you watching, reading, listening to?)
7. What do you PUT OUT?
Emotions (Feelings)
Speech (How do you communicate?)
Service (Do you live for and love others or yourself?)

Dr Darren Morton’s SMILERS: Speak right, Move right, Immerse in the right environment, Look at the right things, Eat right, Rest right and Serve right.
(Seven Secrets for Feeling Fantastic)

A Good Non-Technical Spiritual View on Depression and Anxiety October 29, 2011

https://www.audioverse.org/english/sermons/recordings/3589/digging-out-the-spiritual-roots-of-depression-and-anxiety.html

I hope it helps you see things more clearly and go to God.

Web App Compress Shrink JPEG Images September 7, 2011

http://www.jpegmini.com/main/home

Staying Happy at Work August 22, 2011

Continuing from http://ntri.wordpress.com/2011/07/05/morsels-of-happiness/

1. Don’t care too much. Don’t lament the problems of the world.
Your attitude is your barometer. If you find yourself getting jaded and cynical it means that something needs to change. Often it is because of burn-out. In that state, you need to focus on the tasks that really matter. Don’t let things beyond that concern you.

When we get passionate about things we cannot change or things that do not directly affect us, it leads to frustration. There will always be little irritations that make your work more difficult. Fix those things if you can, but do not try to “fix” management or “the system”.

Don’t complain about things that are unnecessarily like deadlines, slow computers and strict bosses. Accept that systems are imperfect and make your focus being productive and positive at the work you find in your hands to do.

My Epitaph August 15, 2011

Forgiven
Wanted
Loved
Missed

My Life’s Soundtrack August 15, 2011

Songs that speak for each year of my life

2006 – Were It Not For Grace (Larnelle Harris)
2007 – Rewrite This Tragedy (Sara Groves), Where Joy and Sorrow Meet (Avalon), Just Showed Up (Sara Groves)
2008 – Because You Love (Mike Rayson), Your Love Changes Me (Nathan Tasker)
2009 – Prayer for Home (Fernando Ortega), When I Cry (Gaither Vocal Band)
2010 – The Invitation (Steven Curtis Chapman), Everything to Me (Avalon), He Will Carry Me (Mark Schultz)
2011 – Be Thou Near to Me (Selah), Every Minute (Sara Groves), Overnight (Amy Grant)
2012 – In Your Love (Nichole Nordeman), Remember Surrender (Sara Groves)

Best interactive night sky map stars constellations July 30, 2011

http://media.skysurvey.org/interactive360/index.html

My Favourite Smart Phone Apps July 21, 2011

Communication

Push to Talk

VOIP

VOIP to Landlines

SMS

Notetaking

Article Filing
Everpaper for Instapaper

SMS from Browser
http://www.browsertexting.com/ which I have found to be superior to MightyText

Media Player

Battery Manager

Cloud Based File Storage

Remote Access

Remote File Access – Tonido

Digital Study FlashCards

http://www.studyblue.com

Airdroid

Morsels of Happiness July 5, 2011

Continuing from http://ntri.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/choices-arent-picking-one-card-but-a-deck/

More advice for a happy life:

1. Run your life, don’t like life run you.
2. You are not your thoughts and feelings; you have a responsibility to manage your thoughts and feelings. You are not a product of your emotions; your emotions are a product of your choices (usually choices you made a long time ago). You’re not at fault for your thoughts and feelings, because today’s feelings are usually an automatic unconscious response based on how you’re wired right now, but tomorrow’s feelings might be different if you choose differently today.
3. Live in the present. Accept the reality of the present – not “this too shall pass” (waiting for a better future), let go of baggage (past) and be able to say, “Yep. It sucks. OK, moving on.”
4. Be objective; don’t dwell – don’t attach an emotional meaning to every event that occurs e.g. I’m so happy because he said something nice to me, I’m upset because they were mean. A fact is a fact, no matter what you feel about it. Feelings are like car exhaust. It occurs because the car is doing work. Just focus on moving forward, not on the fumes.
5. Don’t be black and white – using language like: it won’t work, I can’t help it, I’m trapped, I’ve no choice, it’s impossible, nothing will help, there’s nothing I can do, nothing will change
6. Obstacles are to be tackled. They weren’t put there to make you give up, but to make you grow up by climbing over them.
7. Life is not a series of destinations, it’s a series of steps (usually over obstacles). “It’s all about the journey.”
8. Work less, work slower, and the work you do will not only be easier, more enjoyable, but more productive

USB Bootable Linux July 4, 2011

http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/

Doctrinal Debate July 3, 2011

Perhaps some may wonder why I have kept silent on the issue (whatever it may be). It is because many louder voices have weighed in before me. And what has been the result? Certainly not clarity nor consensus. Not reconciliation nor revival. Not education nor encouragement. But rather adversity and personal attack. There may come a time in the future suitable for a sensible debate. But by evidence of the present conflict, that time is not now – we are not ready. Perhaps a time will come when we are all Christ-like enough to discuss our disagreements in deference to each other. But for now I will get on with the Father’s business and let others expend energy fighting an unending war on the sidelines of Truth.

Titus 3:9
1 Tim 1:3-7

In laboring in a new field, do not think it your duty to say at once to the people, We are Seventh-day Adventists; we believe that the seventh day is the Sabbath; we believe in the non-immortality of the soul. This would often erect a formidable barrier between you and those you wish to reach. Speak to them, as you have opportunity, upon points of doctrine on which you can agree. Dwell on the necessity of practical godliness. Give them evidence that you are a Christian, desiring peace, and that you love their souls. Let them see that you are conscientious. Thus you will gain their confidence; and there will be time enough for doctrines. Let the heart be won, the soil prepared, and then sow the seed, presenting in love the truth as it is in Jesus.
God will surely help those who seek Him for wisdom. We are not to wait until opportunities come to us; we are to seek for opportunities, and we are to be ready always to give a reason for the hope that is in us. If the worker keeps his heart uplifted in prayer, God will help him to speak the right word at the right time.
In seeking to correct or reform others, we should be careful of our words. They will be a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death. In giving reproof or counsel, many indulge in sharp, severe speech, words not adapted to heal the wounded soul. By these ill-advised expressions the spirit is chafed, and often the erring ones are stirred to rebellion.
All who would advocate the principles of truth need to receive the heavenly oil of love. Under all circumstances reproof should be spoken in love. Then our words will reform, but not exasperate. Christ by His Holy Spirit will supply the force and the power. This is His Work.

(Gospel Workers 119-120)

However intelligent, however learned a man may be, he is not qualified
to teach unless he has a firm hold on the God of Israel. He who is
connected with Heaven will do the works of Christ. By faith in God he
will have power to move upon humanity. He will seek for the lost sheep
of the house of Israel. If divine power does not combine with human
effort, I would not give a straw for all that the greatest man could
do. The Holy Spirit is wanting in our work. Nothing frightens me more
than to see the spirit of variance manifested by our brethren. We are
on dangerous ground when we cannot meet together like Christians, and
courteously examine controverted points. I feel like fleeing from the
place lest I receive the mold of those who cannot candidly investigate
the doctrines of the Bible. Those who cannot impartially examine the
evidences of a position that differs from theirs, are not fit to teach
in any department of God’s cause. … Every teacher must be a learner,
that his eyes may be anointed to see the evidences of the advancing
truth of God. The beams of the Sun of Righteousness must shine into
his own heart if he would impart light to others.

(RH, February 18, 1890)

On NY and DOMA July 3, 2011

A very controversial article by Keith Burton

http://spectrummagazine.org/article/column/2011/07/01/same-sex-marriage-empire-state-and-state-empire

I notice that many of the commentators interchange the concepts of:
A. Same sex marriage (as in the “sacred rite”)
B. Homosexual orientation
C. Act of homosexual sex
D. Sex sex relationships (i.e. homosexual couples)
E. Promiscuity
F. Civil rights for homosexual couples
These are issues that I consider to be quite distinct and one can hold various views on each without contradiction or compromise.

I do take some of Burton’s points, especially the example he gave of the town clerk who refused to certify same sex marriages presumably for her religious convictions. However, I find it fascinating that Adventists are among the most vocal on both sides of the issue.

With Burton, I find it a grave danger when the climate of the world allows something that is wrong to appear so acceptably right. When the norm is determined by societal fashion. When public consensus begins to invade private conscience.

I do admire the stance of individuals such as Nelson Castro:
“I think marriage should be between a man and a woman, but I don’t have the right to prohibit others to have the right to get married,”

http://nycapitolnews.com/2011/06/thin-line-between-church-and-state/

Though I may not agree with the wording of his pastor’s advice. For our responsibility to our fellow man stems from our responsibility to God. No aspect of our lives can be divorced from God.

I respect the foresight of legislators who provided exemptions to ensure individuals did not feel compelled to assist marriages they could not support.

Just a few comments that I found insightful:

Idea adapted from Roy Binghy – Fri, 07/01/2011 – 10:00
Orientation is not predetermination. We have often said we are all born sinners. But does sinful orientation give us an inalienable right to sin? Admitting the biological reality of the orientation itself, does not equate to legitimising the act.

Matt Burdette – Fri, 07/01/2011 – 10:39
I’m not sure that the tone of this article is helpful, regardless of one’s beliefs about homosexuality. It is unnecessarily insensitive.

Keith, you invoked prophecy to say that you are not surprised by the outcome of the vote. This makes me wonder what exactly you understand to be the relationship of the church to the state. If the “evil empire” is preparing to make its last stand against God’s kingdom, and that empire is somehow identified with the United States, what investment do you have in shaping the laws of the empire?

Perhaps another way to ask th same question will clarify what I am getting at: could you specifically describe the point at which the church recognizes that the space outside the church operates on a different ethic than within? You want to legislate marriage; should we also legislate sabbath rest? Or perhaps we should make pork ilegal.

I am happy to have a discussion about how we as a church should think about homosexuality and how homosexuals fit into our community; but this discussion about the state assumes far too much to have a real discussion, and that is frustrating.

From another related article:

http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2011/07/01/new-york-adventist-key-marriage-equality-victory

Jim Coffin – Sat, 07/02/2011 – 06:57
I like simple and tidy. I like uncomplicated. I like the idea that the first four commandments are God-directed, and therefore not subject to human legislation, while the last six are legislatable. Sounds great. Until I start trying to formulate the laws, that is.

I’m really wrestling with that one about coveting. Do I wait until a person actually does something that looks like it probably stemmed from coveting before imposing a punishment? Or do I look into his or her eyes to see if I can divine what’s going on inside, and then impose a punishment on the basis of my hunch about what I see? Just how am I supposed to legislate about something that transpires completely within a person’s heart and soul?

And while we’re at it, what kind of legislation is appropriate concerning parental respect? If people deride a parent as “an old ______,” should we fine them or throw them into prison? Is it disrespect if adult children put a parent into a home rather than totally disrupting their family to give full-time care that they’re not equipped to give? Just where does the public’s interest begin? I need a little legislative guidance here.

And that adultery thing: Should we fine people who are unfaithful to their spouse? Throw them into jail? Put them in the stocks and hurl insults––or refuse––at them? Just what? And what if the cheated-on spouse would prefer that we not take action––because he or she would like to work things out? Because it would be disruptive for the children? Because the victim has truly forgiven the victimizer? I really need guidance here.

I’ll grant you that three of the ten do seem ripe for human legislation: not killing; not stealing; not lying under oath or assassinating someone else’s character by spreading falsehoods. But by the time I’ve reduced it that far, and the commandments on my list aren’t even contiguous, I no longer have simple and tidy.

Drat!

Jim

KM – Sat, 07/02/2011 – 07:09

With his pastor, Castro “spoke about the fact that I thought it was the right thing to do. But religiously I was definitely torn. He said to me, ‘Look, civically, you have a responsibility to represent your community. That has nothing to do with God.’”

That was poor advice, not because it led Castro to a particular conclusion on the question at vote (that’s something he did on his own, as he should). It was poor advice because it encouraged him to dissociate his work from his values. Such a bifurcation doesn’t fit Castro, according to his own website, as Alex points out: Castro is in public service because of his values and not despite them.

Holding true to the mission of his Alma Mater to, “Seek Knowledge, Affirm Faith, Change the World,” Nelson Castro returned to New York City with these sentiments in mind.

He didn’t sign up to be fragmented, and his pastor should be the last person to encourage him to do so.

There should be no disconnect for a contemporary Christian between representation and speaking for those who can’t speak for themselves, or between living out Kingdom values and acting to ensure that fairness and equitable treatment for all people are the baseline notes for this society and don’t only manifest as such somewhere in the misty future after the millennium.

Our late 19th and early 20th C church members gained some experience with cross-denominational efforts to “enforce morality,” during Prohibition. In reading about that period, the lesson I learned was that morality can’t be enforced. Compliance can. Apparent compliance definitely can. But morality cannot be. A people concerned with the fruit of the Spirit — temperance included — should be much more aware that virtues are internally motivated, not externally imposed.

So if “enforcing laws” is premise to the Adventist model of liberty, religious or otherwise, we have a highly bastardized concept of liberty, law, ethics, and virtue, and would be well served spending a lot of quiet time and careful effort revising it.

Taya – Sat, 07/02/2011 – 17:26
Just wondering how one separates belief and vote when it comes to moral issues. Also pondering about my belief in the Sabbath and the vote. I find it difficult to believe that any SDA would vote to enforce 7th day Sabbath legislation, if it was proposed, yet we firmly believe that is a wonderful command and privilege.
Would we vote to prohibit others from working on the Sabbath or buying and selling on that day? I don’t believe gay marriage is God’s plan, yet to actively prohibit it seems like we would be doing the same thing those do who will actively try to use their vote to prohibit us from worshiping on Sabbath. Please assist me in this as I truly am seeking clarity on this issue.
I know there will be opportunity again to vote on these issues and sometimes I feel like not voting at all, yet that seems like a vote by default.

David Read – Sat, 07/02/2011 – 18:31
“I think when statesmen forsake their own private consciences for the sake of their public duties, they lead their countries by a short route to chaos.” —A Man For All Seasons

Robert Sonter – Sat, 07/02/2011 – 19:17

“He said to me, “Look, civically, you have a responsibility to represent your community. That has nothing to do with God.”" Quoted from article above.

I thoroughly agree with how Castro voted and applaud his courage in following his convictions, as regards discharging the public duty of his office. But the above is a poor choice of words, or maybe Castro is still confused about how God relates to issues such as the one he voted on. To me it has everything to do with God – He is a God of justice and fairness, and expects us to manifest the same qualities – in the way we treat people personally as well as in the way we make laws.

Home Loan June 23, 2011

Heritage Building Society

Haematolatry June 13, 2011

Paul used to stone those who disagreed. Does God do the same to us?

“There is power in the blood”

What does all this blood achieve? “You search the scriptures…” (John 5:39), but they point to me (Jesus). The Bible has no power except to bring us to Jesus.

There is no power in the blood. The power is in the one who shed His blood – God himself. The blood of the sacrificial system was part of God’s emergency measures.

To shed your blood simply means to die. Why did Jesus choose to die?

We “esteemed” Christ as being stricken by God (Isaiah 53).
The reality was we had misunderstood God. It was not God who had to change His heart towards us. God came to die to change our hearts towards Him.

Christ died to demonstrate God’s love for us (Romans 5:8) and that He is indeed righteous, able to make us right and worthy of our trust (Romans 3:25-26).

Christ’s death was not to overrule (or find a loophole around) the law. Christ did not come to do away with the law (moral or ceremonial – The Ten Commandments or the sacrificial system). Rather the law should be relocated: off the wall and into our heart and mind (Hebrews 10:16).

Christ was crucified by the most pious law-abiding, seventh-day Sabbath keeping, health reforming, tithe paying Adventists the world has ever known. Such is the danger of the wrong picture of God. “Love me or I’ll kill you.”

A sullen submission to the will of the Father will develop the character of a rebel. — 12MR236

What God is seeking is that we “know” Him intimately (Jeremiah 9:24). As did Abraham, Moses and Job. As did the Apostle Paul who wrote 1 Cor 13:4-13.

Why 1844 Matters June 13, 2011

Daniel and his friends did not ask, “is this a salvation issue?” Rather their focus was, “How can God be glorified in this situation?” I will live my life in a way that will bring glory and honour to Him. It matters not where exactly the line is drawn – what is the bare minimum that I must achieve to make it to heaven.

1260 years – During which the principles of Satan’s government are allowed to come to its fullness. No wonder opposition to the Roman church culminated in the French Revolution.

In the sixteenth century the Reformation, presenting an open Bible to the people, had sought admission to all the countries of Europe. Some nations welcomed it with gladness, as a messenger of Heaven. In other lands the papacy succeeded to a great extent in preventing its entrance; and the light of Bible knowledge, with its elevating influences, was almost wholly excluded. In one country, though the light found entrance, it was not comprehended by the darkness. For centuries, truth and error struggled for the mastery. At last the evil triumphed, and the truth of Heaven was thrust out. “This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light.” John 3:19. The nation was left to reap the results of the course which she had chosen. The restraint of God’s Spirit was removed from a people that had despised the gift of His grace. Evil was permitted to come to maturity. And all the world saw the fruit of willful rejection of the light.

The war against the Bible, carried forward for so many centuries in France, culminated in the scenes of the Revolution. That terrible outbreaking was but the legitimate result of Rome’s suppression of the Scriptures. (See Appendix.) It presented the most striking illustration which the world has ever witnessed of the working out of the papal policy– an illustration of the results to which for more than a thousand years the teaching of the Roman Church had been tending.

The suppression of the Scriptures during the period of papal supremacy was foretold by the prophets; and the Revelator points also to the terrible results that were to accrue especially to France from the domination of the “man of sin.”

Great Controversy 265-6

Time prophecy comes to its fulfilment. There will be no more “time” (Rev 10:6). The rise of the Second Advent Movement (Rev 10:7-11) in which the “mystery of God will be accomplished” by “prophesying again to many peoples, nations, languages and kingdoms.” What is the “mystery of God”? It is “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col 1:27). God’s two witnesses (His word) is exalted, but not before the beast from the Abyss deals His word a fatal blow. This controversy culminates in Rev 11:19 as the temple in heaven is opened and the ark of the covenant revealed. In this time the principles of God’s government, and His character, is revealed through His people.

“The whole earth was lightened with His glory” (Rev 18:1)

“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” This is the company with whom we desire to stand. Then let us show it by our works, and remove from our hearts everything that will shut out Jesus. The latter rain is to fall upon the people of God. A mighty angel is to come down from heaven, and the whole earth is to be lighted with his glory. Are we ready to take part in the glorious work of the third angel? Are our vessels ready to receive the heavenly dew? Have we defilement and sin in the heart? If so, let us cleanse the soul temple, and prepare for the showers of the latter rain. The refreshing from the presence of the Lord will never come to hearts filled with impurity. May God help us to die to self, that Christ, the hope of glory, may be formed within! I must have the Spirit of God in my heart. I can never go forward to do the great work of God, unless the Holy Spirit rests upon my soul. “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” The day of judgment is upon us. O that we may wash our robes of character, and make them white in the blood of the Lamb!

Review and Herald, 21 April 1891

May the Lord give us to see the need of drinking from the living fountain of the water of life. Its pure streams will refresh and heal us and refresh all connected with us. Oh, if the hearts were only subdued by the Spirit of God! If the eye was single to God’s glory, what a flood of heavenly light would pour upon the soul. He who spake as never man spake was an educator upon earth. After His resurrection He was an educator to the lonely, disappointed disciples traveling to Emmaus, and to those assembled in the upper chamber. He opened to them the Scriptures concerning Himself and caused their hearts to be bound with a holy, new, and sacred hope and joy.

From the Holy of Holies, there goes on the grand work of instruction. The angels of God are communicating to men. Christ officiates in the sanctuary. We do not follow Him into the sanctuary as we should. Christ and angels work in the hearts of the children of men. The church above, united with the church below, is warring the good warfare upon the earth. There must be a purifying of the soul here upon the earth, in harmony with Christ’s cleansing of the sanctuary in heaven. There we shall see more clearly as we are seen. We shall know as we are known.

It is a melancholy and dispiriting thing to observe how little effect the solemn truths relating to these last days have upon the minds and hearts of those who claim to believe the truth. They listen to the discourses preached, they seem to be deeply interested as they hang upon the lips of the speaker, and if his words are sublime they are delighted; tears flow as the love of Christ is the theme brought before them.

But with the close of the discourse the spell is broken. Enter the homes and you will be surprised to not hear one word that would lead you to think that a deep impression was made as the circumstances warranted in the presentation of such elevating things. It was exactly as if they had listened to some pleasant song or melody. It is done, and the impression gone like the morning dew before the sun.

What is the reason of this? The truth is not brought into the life. They did not accept the truth spoken as the word of God to them. They did not look past the instrument to the great Worker within the heavenly sanctuary. They did not take the word as a special message from God, of whom the speaker was only the one who was entrusted with the message. Is it then any marvel that the truth is so powerless, that with a larger number, if there is some excitement, a little animal ecstasy, a little head knowledge, the influence is no deeper?

There is altogether too much sermonizing. There is too little listening and hearing the voice of God, but hearing only the voice of man; and the hearers go to their homes with souls unnourished but empty as before, and prepared to sit in judgment upon the sermon, commenting upon it as they would upon a tragedy, reviewing the matter as a human effort. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” Fill the mind with the great humiliation of Christ, and then contemplate His divine character, His majesty and glory of the Highest, and His disrobing Himself of these and clothing His divinity with humanity. Then we can see a self-denial, a self-sacrifice, that was the marvel of angels.

Oh, it was poverty indeed apportioned to the Son of God that He should be moving upon a province of His own empire and yet not be recognized or confessed by the nation He came to bless and to save. It was poverty that when He walked among men, scattering blessing as He trod, the anthem of praise floated not around Him, but the air was often freighted with curses and blasphemy. It was poverty that as He passed to and fro among the subjects He came to save, scarcely a solitary voice called Him blessed, scarcely a solitary hand was stretched out in friendship, and scarcely a solitary roof proffered Him shelter. Then look beneath the disguise, and whom do we see?–Divinity, the Eternal Son of God, just as mighty, just as infinitely gifted with all the resources of power, and He was found in fashion as a man.

I wish that finite minds could see and sense the great love of the infinite God, His great self-denial, His self-sacrifice, in assuming humanity. God humbled Himself and became man and humbled Himself to die, and not only to die, but to die an ignominious death. Oh, that we might see the need of humility, of walking humbly with God, and guarding ourselves on every point.

I know that Satan’s work will be to set brethren at variance. Were it not that I know [that] the Captain of our salvation stands at the helm to guide the gospel ship into the harbor, I should say, Let me rest in the grave.

Our Redeemer liveth to make intercession for us, and now if we will daily learn in the school of Christ, if we will cherish the lessons He will teach us in meekness and lowliness of heart, we shall have so large a measure of the Spirit of Jesus that self will not be interwoven into anything that we may do or say. The eye will be single to the glory of God. We need to make special efforts to answer the prayer of Christ that we may be one as He is one with the Father, He who declared Himself actually straitened while in the days of His humiliation because He had many things to say to His disciples which they could not bear now. The wonders of redemption are dwelt upon altogether too lightly.

Letter 37, 18 February 1887, to Elders EJ Waggoner and AT Jones

“When the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.” Christ is waiting with longing desire for the manifestation of Himself in His church. When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.

It is the privilege of every Christian not only to look for but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, (2 Peter 3:12, margin). Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last great harvest would be ripened, and Christ would come to gather the precious grain.

(Christ Object Lessons 69)

Now Christ is in the heavenly sanctuary. And what is He doing? Making atonement for us, cleansing the sanctuary from the sins of the people. Then we must enter by faith into the sanctuary with Him, we must commence the work in the sanctuary of our souls. We are to cleanse ourselves from all defilement. We must “cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Satan will come and tempt you and you will give way to his temptations. What then? Why, come and humble your hearts in confession, and by faith grasp the arm of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary. Believe that Christ will take your confession and hold up His hands before the Father–hands that have been bruised and wounded in our behalf– and He will make an atonement for all who will come with confession. What if you cannot understand about this matter? He says, “He that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (2 Peter 1:19).

Now brethren and sisters, I want you to see that you must “add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Now when you commence to work, Satan is going to work in an opposite direction; and if you are unkind and harsh, and if you are not seen in the house of God bearing your cross, you have not the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ; you do not discern Him in His love and matchless purity.

Many will say, I am saved, I am saved, I am saved. Well, have they been cleansed from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit? and can they cleanse themselves by the righteousness of the law? Jesus Christ came to this world, and there is His righteousness to impart to the children of men who are obeying the law of God. The whole world can say, I am saved, as well as any transgressor today. They can say, I believe on Christ that He is my Saviour, but why do they disregard His law which is the transcript of His character? When they disregard the law of Jehovah they disregard the Lord Jesus Christ.

Now, I want to say to you before closing, that we have a wonderful friend in Jesus, who came to save His people from the transgression of the law. What is sin? The only definition of sin is that it is the transgression of the law. Then here is Jesus Christ, who comes right in and imparts His righteousness to us; we cannot overcome in our own strength, but by faith in Him. If you will believe on Jesus Christ, you will have Him today. You must believe that He is your Saviour now, and that He imputes to you His righteousness because He has died, and because He has been obedient unto every requirement of that transgressed law of God. If you do this, you will have a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Adam and Eve lost Eden because they transgressed that law, but you will lose heaven if you transgress it.

We can be filled with all the fullness of God. Our lives may measure with the life of God. Then can we press back the powers of darkness. Glory to God in the highest! I love Him because He first loved me. I will magnify His name. I rejoice in His love, and when we shall enter in through the gates into the city it will be the highest privilege to cast my crown at His feet. Why? Because He gave me the victory, because He wrought out the plan of salvation. And when I look at the glory, and at the saints redeemed, just like a flash will I cast my crown at the feet of my Redeemer. It is His; it was He who purchased my redemption. Glory to God in the highest! Let us praise Him and talk of His mightiness and of what He will do for us. Let us keep His law and then He can trust us, for He has a law and He will reward obedience to that law; He will give us a crown of glory.

Now, brethren, we are almost home; we shall soon hear the voice of the Saviour richer than any music, saying, Your warfare is accomplished. Enter into the joy of thy Lord. Blessed, blessed, benediction; I want to hear it from His immortal lips. I want to praise Him; I want to honor Him that sitteth on the throne. I want my voice to echo and re-echo through the courts of heaven. Will you be there? Then you must educate your voice to praise Him on earth, and then you can join the heavenly choir and sing the song of Moses and the Lamb. God help us, and fill us with all fullness and power, and then we can taste of the joys of the world to come.– Manuscript 8, 1888.

Sabbath Talk – 20 October 1888 – Minneapolis General Conference

Hermeneutics June 5, 2011

Reading the comments on this article on Spectrum regarding hermeneutics, I came across some insightful comments by Mr Potato:

Mr. Potato – Sat, 06/04/2011 – 08:10
Four methods of Bible study are a good place to start.

Prooftexting: Based on a previous agenda, simply chooses texts without regard to context or writer’s intent. The texts are chosen because they may be forced to say something the compiler wants to hear, even if they are used in a way the original writer never intended. In Adventism, prooftexting is often utilized by people with agendas based on EGW.

Historical Grammatical: This method has been decried by Ray Cottrell as a pseudo hermeneutic which pretends to be objective but actually isn’t. It’s purpose, in Adventism, is to maintain the status quo derived from EGW and corroborated by prooftexting.

Historical Critical: Probably has a range of applications and severity. Depending on who is using it, it can be quite offensive to people who view Scripture as the Word of God. Some HC scholars, believing that the copyists made mistakes in transmitting the text, actually try to reconstruct the text based on their ideas about what it should say. These attempts place it on the same level as the HG method but at the opposite end of the spectrum. HG proponents have a faith based agenda while some HG scholars have a non faith based agenda which may be destructive to the faith building process in individual lives.

Real HC scholarship requires a level of scholarship attainable by only a few, including expertise in various elements of the original Biblical languages as well as languages related to those languages. It’s unfortunate that, in a rarefied field, those capable of the art use their knowledge to destoy the faith of others by criticizing Scripture in a negative way.

Historical Method: Considers writers original intent, immediate context, word meanings, and cross references, as well as historical context. Approachs Scripture inductively, without an agenda and is not proscribed by EGW or creedal considerations.

[Tip of the hat to Ray Cottrell]

Mr. Potato – Sat, 06/04/2011 – 10:03
One issue with Bible interpretation is the context in which the Bible is being used. People in academia, for example, are concerend about numerous issues which a person in a foreign country might find irrelevant or a waste of time. I say irrelevant with reference to the salvation of people who have not heard the gospel. Jesus said, for example, his words are spirit and life. Galatians indicates that the Spirit is supplied to believers through the word. Scripture says that faith comes by hearing the word of God; consequently the interplay between the Word and the human soul has potential salvific dynamics.

These dynamics are largely absent from academia. In general, individuals studying the Bible in a university are already Christians. Many are preparing for a profession from which their future income will be derived. They are engaged in professional study to earn a living, not seeking for truth upon which their eternal salvation is based.

Jan has stated above that there are problems with the gospels which are not minor. I’d be interested to know what problems there are which impact its efficacy as a channel through which the Holy Spirit can convict people of sin and bring them to repentance. If the “problems” are of interest primarily to academics who are essentially being paid to deconstruct Scripture and destroy ite credibility, then people have moved away from a platform of Christian faith and are engaged in humanistic study of a non redemptive nature. One might even say that peole engaged in study of this nature are apostates, since they have moved off the platform of faith in Scripture.

It might be argued that we should place our faith in Jesus; however, I would remind others that apart from Scripture, we have essentially no knowledge of Jesus. Paul spoke of bringing the crucifixion of Jesus into the midst of those who listened to his teaching. It was more than information about a historical event. It was a living spiritual reality, Christ crucified in their midst, that whosoever believed might experience the blessing of His shed blood.

Certainly there are teachers in academia who recognize and value the redemptive aspects of the Bible. These individuals would likely fall into the “historical school” of Biblical interpretation. An excellent example of this approach might be found in Farmer’s essay in the Canon Debate. In the midst of scholarship and academia, his essay uplifted the Saviour, something which few higher critics of a certain bent are ill prepared to do. They really can’t do it because they are unbelievers.

Mr. Potato – Sun, 06/05/2011 – 01:48
While considering the ways this discussion might go, I noticed the following remark by David Larson on another thread:

“The specialists in the ethics of scientific research whom I respect hold that scientists are ethically accountable for the destructive outcomes of their work that they anticipate. But that’s not all; they are accountable as well for the negative outcomes they could have and should have foreseen.”

If scientists should be held accountable for their work, how about theologians, Biblical critics, et al.?
Notice the following quotes regarding Ehrman’s works:

Ehrman investigates ancient sources to:

• Reveal which New Testament books were outright forgeries.
• Explain how widely forgery was practiced by early Christian writers—and how strongly it was
condemned in the ancient world as fraudulent and illicit.
• Expose the deception in the history of the Christian religion.

Ehrman’s fascinating story of fraud and deceit is essential reading for anyone interested in the truth about the Bible and the dubious origins of Christianity’s sacred texts.

In Forged, Ehrman’s fresh and original research takes readers back to the ancient world, where forgeries were used as weapons by unknown authors to fend off attacks to their faith and establish their church. So, if many of the books in the Bible were not in fact written by Jesus’s inner circle—but by writers living decades later, with differing agendas in rival communities—what does that do to the authority of Scripture?

I find this line revealing “Ehrman’s fascinating story of fraud and deceit is essential reading for anyone interested in the truth about the Bible and the dubious origins of Christianity’s sacred texts.”

From Prof essor Ehrman we can learn that what some consider Sacred Scripture was inspired, not by the Holy Spirit, but rather conceived in a milieu of fraud and deceit giving the NT dubious origins.
Perhaps if you are a secular humanist, an atheist, who has chosen to attack Scripture as a way of earning a living or validating your own unbelief, you might find this approach to the Bible helpful.

I’m interested in offering the Bible as a Revelation of God’s love for mankind. I offer Scripture as a vehicle for the Holy Spirit to transform lives from darkness to light, from Satan unto God, from unbelief to faith. I’m not sure how Prof Ehrman’s approach can help me do this.

GYC and other such conferences and youth rallys June 5, 2011

Responding to the Adventist Review interview on the GYC, Andrew Hanson says on Spectrum:

I’m a survivor of the Missionary Volunteer and Youth Congress movement of the 50’s and 60’s. We too were assured by evangelists and charismatic youth leaders that they were preaching THE TRUTH, that we were living in END TIMES and that our generation was THE ONE THAT WOULD FINISH THE WORK and usher in the return of Christ. Only three of the graduating class of my Adventist high school and less than a dozen of my college companions at Pacific Union College are Adventists. And by no stretch of the imagination would any of us be comfortable at a GYC convention. Why did the Adventist youth movement of my day fail? Because, over time, irrational doctrines breed cynicism. Because along the way, we met and even married wonderful people who weren’t Adventists. Because we read the Bible rather than the Adult Quarterly. Because calling ourselves “the elect” fostered a kind of egotism that we became ashamed of. Because of the realization that we are going to die rather than “be caught up in the air”. Because of bureaucratic pettiness. Because of the Church’s official misogyny and homophobia. Because we had children and grandchildren whom we loved more than we loved Adventism. Because we could be followers of Christ without being afraid. What I am saying is that emotional, anti-intellectual, conservative movements like GYC don’t accomplish much in the long run in spite of all the hoopla. They are ineffective in achieving their own long-term goals and can be spiritually harmful to the young innocents who blame themselves for delaying the Second Advent.

What he says about “emotional” and “hoopla” is true. What is needed is a return to “primitive godliness”, but what that means is an internal unshakeable loyalty to God and genuine concern for the well-being of all of God’s children. That will not come from a exuberant and inspiring conference, but from the “still small voice” at work in our daily walk with God.

Will your oil last? Or will it be consumed in a momentary blaze of youthful excitement?

No regrets June 4, 2011

On our deathbeds, the top 5 regrets are:

http://thenextweb.com/lifehacks/2011/05/31/the-top-5-regrets-people-make-on-their-deathbeds/?all=1

Essentially they boil down to two things…
1. The courage to live against the grain and prioritise the things that really bring happiness, and not the values of employers and erstwhile friends – who offer advice but lack the courage to pursue their own dreams – set the terms of your life. Honour the dreams you have by the choices you make. Create the space you need to live. Have the courage to true to yourself and honest with others.
2. Build and maintain relationships. Which is the desired end for which the advice above is the means.

Loneliness May 15, 2011

The Lord says, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble.” Ps. 50:15. He invites us to present to Him our perplexities and necessities, and our need of divine help. He bids us be instant in prayer. As soon as difficulties arise, we are to offer to Him our sincere, earnest petitions. By our importunate prayers we give evidence of our strong confidence in God. The sense of our need leads us to pray earnestly, and our heavenly Father is moved by our supplications.
Often those who suffer reproach or persecution for their faith are tempted to think themselves forsaken by God. In the eyes of men they are in the minority. To all appearance their enemies triumph over them. But let them not violate their conscience. He who has suffered in their behalf, and has borne their sorrows and afflictions, has not forsaken them.
The children of God are not left alone and defenseless. Prayer moves the arm of Omnipotence. Prayer has “subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire”–we shall know what it means when we hear the reports of the martyrs who died for their faith–”turneth to flight the armies of the aliens.” Heb. 11:33, 34.
If we surrender our lives to His service, we can never be placed in a position for which God has not made provision. Whatever may be our situation, we have a Guide to direct our way; whatever our perplexities, we have a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, bereavement, or loneliness, we have a sympathizing Friend. If in our ignorance we make missteps, Christ does not leave us. His voice, clear and distinct, is heard saying,”I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” John 14:6. “He shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.” Ps. 72:12.
The Lord declares that He will be honored by those who draw nigh to Him, who faithfully do His service. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee.” Isa. 26:3. The arm of Omnipotence is outstretched to lead us onward and still onward. Go forward, the Lord says; I will send you help. It is for My name’s glory that you ask, and you shall receive. I will be honored before those who are watching for your failure. They shall see My word triumph gloriously. “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matt. 21:22.
Let all who are afflicted or unjustly used, cry to God. Turn away from those whose hearts are as steel, and make your requests known to your Maker. Never is one repulsed who comes to Him with a contrite heart. Not one sincere prayer is lost. Amid the anthems of the celestial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being. We pour out our heart’s desire in our closets, we breathe a prayer as we walk by the way, and our words reach the throne of the Monarch of the universe. They may be inaudible to any human ear, but they cannot die away into silence, nor can they be lost through the activities of business that are going on. Nothing can drown the soul’s desire. It rises above the din of the street, above the confusion of the multitude, to the heavenly courts. It is God to whom we are speaking, and our prayer is heard.
You who feel the most unworthy, fear not to commit your case to God. When He gave Himself in Christ for the sin of the world, He undertook the case of every soul. “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Rom. 8:32. Will He not fulfill the gracious word given for our encouragement and strength?
Christ desires nothing so much as to redeem His heritage from the dominion of Satan. But before we are delivered from Satan’s power without, we must be delivered from his power within. The Lord permits trials in order that we may be cleansed from earthliness, from selfishness, from harsh, unchristlike traits of character. He suffers the deep waters of affliction to go over our souls in order that we may know Him and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, in order that we may have deep heart longings to be cleansed from defilement, and may come forth from the trial purer, holier, happier. Often we enter the furnace of trial with our souls darkened with selfishness; but if patient under the crucial test, we shall come forth reflecting the divine character. When His purpose in the affliction is accomplished, “He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.” Ps. 37:6.
There is no danger that the Lord will neglect the prayers of His people. The danger is that in temptation and trial they will become discouraged, and fail to persevere in prayer.

(Christ Object Lessons 172-4)

Augustine May 14, 2011

In necessariis unitas,
In essentials unity,

In dubiis libertas,
In doubtful things liberty,

In omnibus autem caritas,
But in all things love.

Mobile Plans May 8, 2011

http://www.whistleout.com.au/

PREPAID
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TPG (Optus)
Virgin Topless 89

3G MOBILE BROADBAND
MONTH-TO-MONTH
Internode $80 for 18GB (Optus)

http://www.internode.on.net/residential/wireless_broadband/nodemobile_data/plans/

PREPAID
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* Old Optus Dollar Days T&C:

Dollar Days:
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For the most up to date information visit www.optus.com.au/callingoffers.

Greg Boyd on Determinism May 7, 2011

Pretty much my main arguments against it too.

http://www.gregboyd.org/blog/three-arguments-against-determinism/

Three Arguments Against Determinism

March 23rd, 2011

There was an interesting article in the NY Times yesterday by John Tierney entitled “Do You Have Free Will? Yes, It’s The Only Choice“.

The article reviews research that suggests that everybody intuitively believes people are morally responsible only for actions they could have refrained from doing and that when people don’t believe they are free they tend to behave more unethically. Hence, if free will is in fact an illusion, it is an illusion that is hard wired into us and one that is extremely helpful, if not absolutely necessary, for ethical behavior. If you believe in God and yet deny the reality of free will, you have to wonder why the Creator would hard-wire us to be so thoroughly self-deceived. In any event, I thought I’d offer three other pragmatic arguments for free will along the lines covered in this article.

The Incoherence of Ordained Morality. I would argue that the association of moral responsibility and free will is not only deeply intuitive, as the article suggests, it is also logically necessary. That is, I would argue that denying the association of moral responsibility and free will results in incoherence. For example, when a Calvinist asserts something like: “God ordains that Satan does evil in such a way that God remains morally holy for ordaining Satan to do evil while Satan becomes morally evil for doing what the all-holy God ordained him to do,” I submit they are asserting something that is beyond counter-intuitive; it is utterly incoherent. For a concept to have meaning it must have some rooting in our experience, at least by analogy. A concept for which there is no analogy in our experience is a vacuous concept. Yet, after decades of asking, I have yet to find anyone who can provide an analogy by which we might give meaning to the concept of an agent being morally responsible for what God ordained them to do. (I develop this argument at length in response to Paul Helseth in Four Views of Divine Providence).

Determinism is Self-Refuting. If free will is an illusion and everything is predetermined, then the ultimate cause of why a person believes that free will is an illusion and everything is predetermined is that they were predetermined to do so. But it’s hard to see how a belief can be considered “true” or “false” when it is, ultimately, simply a predetermined event. The snow falling outside my window right now is due to the fact that preexisting conditions determined it to be so. But we wouldn’t say that the snowfall is “true” or “false.”

Refuting Determinism By Action. You know what a person truly believes by how they act more than by what they say, for we often think we believe something when in fact we don’t. (E.g. the husband who convinces himself he loves his wife even though he mistreats her, cheats on her, etc.). On this basis I’d like to suggest that everyone who deliberates believes in free will, even if they think they do not, for its impossible to deliberate without acting on the conviction that the decision is up to you to resolve. For example, I am this moment deliberating about what to work on when I finish this blog. Should I work on a peace essay for a book collection that is due at the end of this week or should I finish reading a book by Andrew Sullivan that I started two days ago? As I weigh the pros and cons of both possibilities, I cannot help but manifest my conviction that I genuinely could opt for either one of these alternatives and that it is up to me to decide which I will choose. In other words, I reveal a deep rooted conviction that I am free as I deliberate, and the same holds true for every deliberation anyone engages in. There simply is no other way to deliberate. People may sincerely think they believe in determinism, but they act otherwise, and must act otherwise, every time they deliberate. The great American philosopher Charles Pierce argued that a belief that cannot be consistently acted on cannot be true. If he’s right about this – and I believe he is – then determinism must be false.

Think about it,

Peace.

Overseas Travel SIM April 4, 2011

1. Obtain a SkypeIn number
2. Redirect your mobiles to that SkypeIn number
3. Buy a travel SIM with cheap data in the country you are travelling

http://paygsimwithdata.wikia.com/

4. Your callers will be calling you for the price of a local call, and you will have no roaming costs

Backup and File Management April 3, 2011

1. Do not store vital files on your device (notebook or desktop HDD)
2. Instead store them on NAS via WiFi – as this is far more convenient to access from any device
3. Create partitions the size of a DVD-RW (4.7GB) and/or BD-RE (25GB)
4. Use one partition at a time
5. In each partition have two folders: Working (documents) & Archive (media)
6. Have sub-folders in your Working folder by Quarter (2011Q1-2011Q4) or Month (201101-201112), where you carry over files in use into the current sub-folder (named “Current”)
7. Archive the active partition to DVD-RE or BD-RE on a regular basis (?monthly)
8. After archiving copy using RSync to the next partition, leaving the preceding one as an archive, cycling through all the partitions on the NAS
9. Clone your NAS (all partitions) to (at least) two external HDDs sector-by-sector using EASEUS Todo Backup “Disk Clone Function”, Acronis True Image “Clone Disk” or CopyWipe (?weekly/fortnightly)
10. Backup the Working folder to (at least) 2 USB Flash drives using RSync (?daily/weekly)
11. Keep only the documents you need to use at multiple sites e.g. PPT presentations on the cloud and on a “Working” USB Flash drive

Online – Crashplan www.crashplan.com

File Copy App March 31, 2011

Teracopy http://www.codesector.com/teracopy.php

Software KVM March 31, 2011

KaVoom
Multiplicity
Synergy (free)

Choices aren’t picking one card, but a deck March 15, 2011

You choose a deck of cards, play with it for a little while (there’s a lot of variety even in one deck), but ultimately you can change games (go and play roulette when you’re sick of cards). It’s not like your choices get less with time. That’s a illusion. The choices stay the same. Just like today will always be today. 

Make appointments to worry or stress or cry or be frustrated, you don’t have to do it all now.  You can put your whip in the closet and find another time to whip yourself.

Just because you have a lot of whips doesn’t mean you must use them all. Certainly not all at once.

It’s not that you have weaknesses, only neglected muscles that need development through exercise and disused skills that need refining through practice.

Francis Drake’s Prayer March 12, 2011

Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we dreamed too little,
Because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when
With the abundance of things we possess
We have lost our thirst
For the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life,
We have ceased to dream of eternity
And in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision
Of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly,
To venture on wilder seas
Where storm will show Your mastery;
Where losing sight of land,
We shall find the stars.
We ask You to push back
The horizons of our hopes;
And to push us in the future
In strength, courage, hope, and love.

This we ask in the name of our Captain, who is Jesus Christ.
Amen.

Dick Duerksen – one of Adventism’s best story tellers February 5, 2011

http://www.godtube.com/missionstories/

The cross February 3, 2011

RH Sept 29, 1891
The cross stands alone, a great center in the world. It does not find friends, but it makes them.

Titus 2 – God’s people January 21, 2011

But you must say the things that are consistent with sound teaching. 

Be level headed, worthy of respect, sensible, and sound in faith, love, and patience. 

Be reverent in behavior
And in word (not slanderers)
Not addicted to the ways of this world (like alcohol)

Teach what is good
Encourage others to live lives of love, to be self-controlled in everything, pure, homemakers, kind, and submissive, so that God’s message will not be slandered.

Make yourself an example of good works with integrity and dignity in your teaching. 

Your life’s message is to be sound beyond reproach, so that even your enemies will have nothing bad to say about you.

Be submissive to authority (your employer, government and elders) in everything.
Be pleasant, don’t talk back or be dishonest (stealing).
But demonstrate utter faithfulness, so that the teaching of God our Savior may be made more attractive in every way.

For the grace of God has appeared with salvation for all people, instructing us to deny godlessness and worldly lusts and to live in a sensible, righteous, and godly way in the present age, while we wait for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 

He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a peculiar people, totally committed to doing good works.

You must say all these things, and encourage and rebuke, because you have all authority to do so. Let no one disregard you.

…

God’s people are to peculiar – in integrity, simplicity and wholesome, peaceful attractiveness. With a cutting message for the world, demonstrated in word and deed, for this present time.

3T 267
Mark this point with care: Those who receive the pure mark of truth, wrought in them by the power of the Holy Ghost, represented by a mark by the man in linen, are those “that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done” in the church. Their love for purity and the honor and glory of God is such, and they have so clear a view of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, that they are represented as being in agony, even sighing and crying.

8T 37
My heart is filled with anguish when I think of the tame messages borne by some of our ministers, when they have a message of life and death to bear. The ministers are asleep; the lay members are asleep; and a world is perishing in sin. May God help His people to arouse and walk and work as men and women on the borders of the eternal world. Soon an awful surprise is coming upon the inhabitants of the world. Suddenly, with power and great glory, Christ will come. Then there will be no time to prepare to meet Him. Now is the time for us to give the warning message.

2 Peter 3:11, 14, 17-18 KJV
Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

Mar 138
Are we as a people asleep? Oh, if the young men and young women in our institutions who are now unready for the Lord’s appearing, unfitted to become members of the Lord’s family, could only discern the signs of the times, what a change would be seen in them! The Lord Jesus is calling for self-denying workers to follow in His footsteps, to walk and work for Him, to lift the cross, and to follow where He leads the way.

Intrinsic or Imposed January 10, 2011

Sue Lewis quotes from Ellen White:

“Could those whose lives have been spent in rebellion against God be suddenly transported to Heaven, and witness the high, the holy state of perfection that ever exists there,– every soul filled with love; every countenance beaming with joy; enrapturing music in melodious strains rising in honor of God and the Lamb; and ceaseless streams of light flowing upon the redeemed from the face of Him who sitteth upon the throne,–could those whose hearts are filled with hatred of God, of truth and holiness, mingle with the heavenly throng and join their songs of praise? Could they endure the glory of God and the Lamb?–No, no; years of probation were granted them, that they might form characters for Heaven; but they have never trained the mind to love purity; they have never learned the language of Heaven, and now it is too late. A life of rebellion against God has unfitted them for Heaven. Its purity, holiness, and peace would be torture to them; the glory of God would be a consuming fire. They would long to flee from that holy place. They would welcome destruction, that they might be hidden from the face of Him who died to redeem them. The destiny of the wicked is fixed by their own choice. Their exclusion from Heaven is voluntary with themselves, and just and merciful on the part of God.” {GC88 542.3}

“To sin, wherever found, ‘our God is a consuming fire.’ Heb. 12:29. In all who submit to His power the Spirit of God will consume sin. But if men cling to sin, they become identified with it. Then the glory of God, which destroys sin, must destroy them.” {DA 107.4}

“By a life of rebellion, Satan and all who unite with him place themselves so out of harmony with God that His very presence is to them a consuming fire. The glory of Him who is love will destroy them.” DA 764

“If you cling to self, refusing to yield your will to God, you are choosing death. To sin, wherever found, God is a consuming fire. If you choose sin, and refuse to separate from it, the presence of God, which consumes sin, must consume you.” MB 62

“”Then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He shall send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Matthew 24:30, 31. Then shall they that obey not the gospel be consumed with the spirit of His mouth and be destroyed with the brightness of His coming. 2 Thessalonians 2:8. Like Israel of old the wicked destroy themselves; they fall by their iniquity. By a life of sin, they have placed themselves so out of harmony with God, their natures have become so debased with evil, that the manifestation of His glory is to them a consuming fire.” {GC 37.1}

“God destroys no man. Everyone who is destroyed will have destroyed himself.” {COL 84.4}

Dave Larsen quotes from Terence Fretheim:

I find this from a contemporary Old Testament specialist at Luther Seminary interesting:

“The Bible often names these [suffering] events as divine punishment. But just how God relates to the movement from sinful act to consequence is difficult to sort out, not least because the Old Testament does not speak with one voice about the matter. But generally speaking, the move from sin to consequence is conceived in intrinsic rather than forensic terms: consequences grow out of the deed itself rather than being imposed by God from without as a penalty.”

Terence Fretheim, “Creation Untamed: The Bible, God and Natural Disasters” (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic, 2010), p. 113.

Posted by: davidrlarson | 12 December 2010 at 11:19

* Greg Boyd in his sermon, http://whchurch.org/blog/3567/the-wrestlers, briefly mentions that perhaps just as Jesus became sin for us (2 Cor 5:21), God similarly takes the blame/fall for the actions of His children. The violence of the OT, the destruction of the wicked is God’s work – in so much as He allows His children to commit them. Perhaps the consequences of our sin, which God allows, are then described as God’s wrath.

It is in this way I see the sanctuary service. In continuous succession sinners would arrive at the sanctuary bearing their sacrifices for the wrongs they sought atonement for. As they shed blood, the courtyard, their hands, the priest, the sanctuary itself was stained red. This process would continue day after day for a full year. In this way the sanctuary was defiled, a figure of the estranged relationship the people now had with God as a consequence of their sin (Lev 26:11-12 etc.). But God to the consequences upon himself. That Yom Kippur lamb whose death brought atonement. Because of the lamb’s shed blood the sanctuary could be cleansed (the relationship of God with His people restored). In Christ, God reconciled the world to Himself (2 Cor 5:19).

Dave Larsen on Theological Plurality January 10, 2011

Although they were written about the authors in Scripture, I believe that the following lines from the EGW book “The Great Controversy” apply to others as well.

“As presented through different individuals, the truth is brought out in its varied aspects. One writer is more strongly impressed with one phase of the subject; he grasps those points that harmonize with his experience or with his power of perception and appreciation; another seizes upon a different phase; and each, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, presents what is most forcibly impressed upon his own mind–a different aspect of the truth in each, but a perfect harmony through all. And the truths thus revealed unite to form a perfect whole, adapted to meet the wants of men in all the circumstances and experiences of life.”

This suggests at least five things to me:

1. Theology is irreducibly pluralistic; i.e., we can decrease our theological differences but we cannot wholly eliminate them.

2. These irreducible theological differences flow in large measure from varying psychological and sociological factors about which we are rarely fully aware;

3. Therefore, the proper mode of theological discourse is not debate but affirmative speaking and affirmative listening.

4. “Affirmative speaking” occurs when we spend more time positively explaining what we believe than negatively criticizing what others believe.

5. “Affirmative listening” occurs when we make every possible effort to understand what other persons believe and why.
The purpose of theological dialogue with those past and present is neither to defeat nor defend. It is to learn as much as possible from those whose journeys started at different places..

Posted by: davidrlarson | 12 December 2010 at 7:14

http://www.spectrummagazine.org/blog/2010/12/03/video-biographical-and-theological-conversation-graham-maxwell

Torches (Flashlights) I like January 5, 2011

Thrower: Olight SR91, Thrunite Catapult
Tactical: Olight M21, JetBeam Jet-III M r2
EDC: ??

Provocative Article on Perfection January 1, 2011

http://www.spectrummagazine.org/blog/2010/12/29/why-perfection-theology-so-destructive

Some good comments too

My view:
1. When Christ said “go and sin no more”, He was not requiring the impossible
2. Despite all the effort and willpower in the world, I cannot make myself perfect
3. The God who can create the universe out of nothing, who calls the dead (Abraham and Sarah) as if it were alive, for whom nothing is impossible, can certainly make me whole — for His name’s sake
4. It is His work, not our own
5. Thus He determines and judges the adequacy and progress of His work, not us
6. We must labour to enter into God’s rest
7. At what point can we say we’ve made it? When can we say we are perfect as our father is perfect?
8. (Most of the time) a newborn baby is perfect. Yet it has much growing yet to do.
9. Outward behaviour is only a symptom of inward character
10. Assurance is not found in reflecting upon self, but in focusing upon Christ
11. Heaven will not be a hospital for sinners
12. There will be a fundamental difference between the saved and the unsaved. It will not be an arbitrary distinction.
13. The truth is encouraging and empowering, not discouraging
14. The defeatist attitude (no longer fights the good fight of faith) is as anti-gospel as the self-confident attitude (who sees his victories as in some way by his effort). Self-sufficiency, in its pride, devalues God’s work in saving me, as if it can somehow add to God’s perfect work. Self-deprecation, in its shame, dishonours the work of God (me – for God does not make junk). Understanding the gospel in its reality causes the focus to be on God and develops an attitude of trust and expectation regardless of the struggles, defeats and failures.
15. When Christ has my heart, He has my all. And my all is enough for Him. Just as He is enough for me.

Roy Gane “Altar Call” — When I think about becoming perfect in character, I start contemplating my faults and become afraid. . . . But when I think of being loyal to Christ, the picture changes because my gaze is on Him. He is my example, shepherd, and guardian (1 Pet 2:21-25). I gain courage because all I need to do is follow Him where He wants to take me, including to perfection of character. The result is similar, perfection of character, but the focus is different.

2 Timothy 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

1 Peter 4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;

Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

The bottom line is my perfection is not my worry. It is God’s.

Adventist Writers Who Have Most Influenced My Theology October 14, 2010

A Graham Maxwell
Alden Thompson
David Asscherick
Dennis Priebe
Dwight Nelson
George R Knight
Herb Montgomery
Herbert E Douglass
John Thomas McLarty
Jon Paulien
Martin Weber
Phillip W Dunham
Raymond F Cottrell
Ty Gibson
(Stephen Bohr’s sermons)
(Some of Tim Riesenberger’s sermons)

Come, the rest are just details – by David Lorencin September 16, 2010

Have you ever felt that coming to God was one of the most complicated things you have ever attempted? After all, the Bible seems to be packed with a whole lot of regulations, dos and don’ts. So you turn to one of the churches, who are supposed to guide you through this process, and sometimes they end up making it look even more daunting. You have to get all your ducks in a row, and then come to God in the “right way”, say the right things, look and behave appropriatly etc.

So it is a little bit confusing when you come to a story like we find in 2. Chronicles 30. Hezekiah had just succeeded his father on the throne of Judah. After years of idol worship, one of the first things Hezekiah did was to demolish all the altars, shrines, poles and whatever else was built in honor of these idols. He reopened the Temple and resumed regular services to God. The next thing he did was to call all of Judea and Israel to come and celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem. Sounds great, right? And it was, except for a few details. God gave Moses very strict instructions as to who, when and how to celebrate the Passover. The time when Hezekiah called the Passover was the wrong time, and many among the huge crowd that showed up for the celebration were not ceremonially clean, and therefore could not participate. But they all celebrated the Passover none the less. “Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, ‘May the Lord, who is good, pardon everyone who sets his heart on seeking God – the Lord, the God of his fathers – even if he is not clean according to the rules of the sanctuary.’” It is about this time you might expect bolts of lightning from the sky to consume Hezekiah and the assembled masses, but instead the Bible says: “The Lord heard Hezekiah and healed the people.” (2. Chronicles 30: 18-20 NIV)

What followed was a huge party – 2 weeks of feasting, song and celebration. By the end of it all “the priests and the Levites stood to bless the people, and God heard them, for their prayer reached heaven, his holy dwelling place.” (2. Chronicles 30:27 NIV) So what happened to all the rules and regulations? Eventually people were instructed in them and in the coming years they happily abided by them. But at that point in time, it was more important to God that after years of idolatry the people were simply coming back to Him, and He was ecstatic to take them any way they could come.

And this is great news for us sinners, looking for “the right way” to come to God. To know that what matters to Him is that we just come, regardless of the way, shape or form that it takes. He is longing for us to come back to Him, and He will always accept us, regardless of the way or time in our life when we do finally decide to come to Him. And instead of begrudgingly letting us slip in through the back door hoping no one else will notice, He’ll even throw a party in celebration of our arrival! The Bible says that He will rejoice over us with singing (Zephaniah 3:17). God singing?! That is one song I can’t wait to hear!

David Lorencin
Genesis Road

He Keeps The Key September 16, 2010

Is there some problem in your life to solve,
Some passage seeming full of mystery?
God knows, who brings the hidden things to life.
He keeps the key.

Is there some door closed by the Father’s hand
Which widely opened you had hoped to see?
Trust God and wait — for when He shuts the door
He keeps the key.

Is there some earnest prayer unanswered yet,
Or answered NOT as you had thought ‘twoud be?
God will make clear His purpose by-and-by.
He keeps the key.

Have patience with your God, your patient God,
All wise, all knowing, no long tarrier He,
And of the door of all thy future life
He keeps the key

Unfailing comfort, sweet and blessed rest,
To know of EVERY door He keeps the key.
That when at last when just HE sees ’tis best,
Will give it THEE.

~ Anonymous

‘Tis the Set of the Sail September 16, 2010

But to every mind there openeth,
A way, and way, and away,
A high soul climbs the highway,
And the low soul gropes the low,
And in between on the misty flats,
The rest drift to and fro.

But to every man there openeth,
A high way and a low,
And every mind decideth,
The way his soul shall go.

One ship sails East,
And another West,
By the self-same winds that blow,
‘Tis the set of the sails
And not the gales,
That tells the way we go.

Like the winds of the sea
Are the waves of time,
As we journey along through life,
‘Tis the set of the soul,
That determines the goal,
And not the calm or the strife.

– Ella Wheeler Wilcox 1916

Come September 8, 2010

Whatever your “drug” of choice… whatever your addictions… whatever your failures

“Come unto me… COME… COME…
all you who are weary and heavy laden
(when you feel your burdens so heavy on your heart, when you are so close to giving up)
and I WILL give you REST
(not condemnation, not a lecture, not a sermon)
learn from me
(I won’t add to your guilt or point out your shame)
for I am gentle and humble of heart
and you will find rest for your souls.”

(Matt 11:28-29)

For one reason September 8, 2010

We come into the world for one reason: to love. There is no more fulfilling life than one spent giving love to those who need it. There is no one stronger than one who can love in difficult situations. There is nothing more honourable than a love that stays true in betrayal. There is nothing more thrilling than a love that is returned.

Live your life to love.

Divine Intimacy August 28, 2010

God started humanity’s first day by breathing in man’s nostrils – a holy kiss. Shouldn’t all our days begin with such divine intimacy?

http://insightforliving.typepad.com/dailydevo/2010/08/time-to-toughen-up.html

Only in this way will we learn to associate the breath of God with comfort and strength for this life.

God gave form and filled August 28, 2010

The Bible says the earth was formless and empty.

God makes form
Day 1: God separated light from darkness
Day 2: God separates the seas from the sky, and creates atmosphere
Day 3: God separates land from water, and plants vegetation

God fills…
Day 4: God fills the light and darkness with the sun moon and stars
Day 5: God fills the sea and the sky with fish and birds
Day 6: God fills the land with animals and humans

But…
Day 7: God makes time, and fills it with blessing

* The bible says God “rested”. The best way of understanding this Hebrew word is when an artist just completes a masterpiece and steps back and takes a moment to enjoy – take it all in.

What makes things holy/sanctified/set apart for a God-purpose? God being in it – God’s presence.

That’s why the Bible says we “celebrate” Sabbath.

Sharing Jesus August 28, 2010

God has called us to be His witnesses. To shine His light to those around us.

It isn’t our job to convert people. That’s the Holy Spirit’s job.

Your role is to bring blessing into people’s lives. Not to change them by force or persuasion. Only God changes lives.

In Adam August 6, 2010

Great summary article on Romans 5 in Spectrum Magazine:

http://www.spectrummagazine.org/articles/sabbath_school/2010/08/01/expounding_romans_5

See especially the useful comments by Herb Douglass and David Trim

A moving story about God’s faithfulness July 28, 2010

http://www.genesisproject.org/2010/05/aggie-testimony-faithfulness/

Insightful commentary on the practical implications of the La Sierra Creation vs Evolution controversy July 27, 2010

http://www.spectrummagazine.org/blog/2010/07/25/ten_reasons_why_debate_about_origins_weird

Be A Man – Ministry of Healing 174-175 July 24, 2010

The last words of David to Solomon, then a young man, and soon to receive the crown of Israel, were, “Be … strong, … and show thyself a man.” 1 Kings 2:2. To every child of humanity, the candidate for an immortal crown, are these words of inspiration spoken, “Be … strong, … and show thyself a man.”

The self-indulgent must be led to see and feel that great moral renovation is necessary if they would be men. God calls upon them to arouse and in the strength of Christ win back the God-given manhood that has been sacrificed through sinful indulgence.

Feeling the terrible power of temptation, the drawing of desire that leads to indulgence, many a man cries in despair, “I cannot resist evil.” Tell him that he can, that he must resist. He may have been overcome again and again, but it need not be always thus. He is weak in moral power, controlled by the habits of a life of sin. His promises and resolutions are like ropes of sand. The knowledge of his broken promises and forfeited pledges weakens his confidence in his own sincerity and causes him to feel that God cannot accept him or work with his efforts. But he need not despair.

Those who put their trust in Christ are not to be enslaved by any hereditary or cultivated habit or tendency. Instead of being held in bondage to the lower nature, they are to rule every appetite and passion. God has not left us to battle with evil in our own finite strength. Whatever may be our inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong, we can overcome through the power that He is ready to impart.

Values July 19, 2010

Put me in the right situation and I will fall. But my values have allowed God to keep me away from those situations.

Russell Baker’s favourite column July 14, 2010

April 14, 1996
100 Years of The New York Times: Sunday Observer – May 18, 1975;Spaced Out

By Russell Baker
From 1973 to 1987, Russell Baker wrote Sunday Observer for the Magazine. He selected the column adapted here as a favorite.

I am sitting here 93 million miles from the sun on a rounded rock which is spinning at the rate of 1,000 miles an hour, and roaring through space to nobody-knows-where, to keep a rendezvous with nobody-knows-what, for nobody-knows-why, … while off to the north of me the polar icecap may, or may not, be getting ready to send down oceanic mountains of ice that will bury everything from Bangor to Richmond in a ponderous white death, and there, off to the east, the ocean is tearing away at the land and wrenching it into the sea bottom and coming back for more, as if the ocean is determined to claim it all before the deadly swarms of killer bees, … can ge there to take possession, although it seems more likely that the protective ozone layer in the upper atmosphere may collapse first, exposing us all, ocean, killer bees and me, too, to the merciless spraying of deadly cosmic rays.

I am sitting here on this spinning, speeding rock surrounded by four billion people, eight planets, one awesome lot of galaxies, hydrogen bombs enough to kill me 30 times over, and mountains of handguns and frozen food, and I am being swept along in the whole galaxy’s insane dash toward the far wall of the universe, across distances longer to traverse than Sunday afternoon on the New Jersey Turnpike, so long, in fact, that when we get there I shall be at least 800,000 years old, provided, of course, that the whole galaxy doesn’t run into another speeding galaxy at some poorly marked universal intersection and turn us all into space garbage, or that the sun doesn’t burn out in the meantime, or that some highly intelligent ferns from deepest space do not land from flying fern pots and cage me up in a greenhouse fo rscientific study.

So, as I say, I am sitting here with the continents moving, and killer bees coming, and the ocean eating away, and the icecap poised, and the galaxy racing across the universe, and the thermonuclear 30-times-over bombs stacked up around me, and only the gravity holding me onto the rock, … and as I sit here, 93 million miles from the sun, I am feeling absolutely miserable, and realize, with self-pity and despair, that I am getting a cold.

GC 460 July 13, 2010

Whatever may be their profession, it is only those who are world servers at heart that act from policy rather than principle in religious things. We should choose the right because it is right, and leave consequences with God. To men of principle, faith, and daring, the world is indebted for its great reforms. By such men the work of reform for this time must be carried forward.

Not a bad way of describing it July 10, 2010

I believe in that Alien Righteousness that resides in Jesus Christ, our Lord and coming King, and to its corollary Proper Righteousness or ethic the springs forth from those who find themselves washed, salted, and swaddled by the Righteousness of Christ. To those with a historic bent, Martin Luther first presented the concept of Alien and Proper Righteousness in a sermon given in 1519 and translated by John Dillenberger in 1961.

The two terms Alien Righteousness and Proper Righteousness clearly delineate justification and the ethos and ethical response we know as sanctification: both consequential to the redemptive act of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit as our Guide and Comforter.

Posted by: Tom Zwemer | 09 July 2010 at 2:30

I am not too knowledgeable about how Luther saw righteousness, but indeed there is One who is righteous where I am not. His righteousness is alien to me. But because of what He has done, He has made that righteousness known to me. His righteousness transforms me, and being so changed, I reflect Him. I become righteous even as He is. For He is the Author and Finisher of me.

About putting “minors” in perspective June 26, 2010

I’ve read with interested the varying comments about the new GC President, Ted Wilson. I want to say that while I “do” believe that women’s ordination is biblical, I’m not opposed to a leader who does not share my belief. It is not a life or death issue.
If it, women’s ordination, was as important to God as it is to me and other women and men who feel strongly about this, then God would have made sure his word, the Bible, left no room for doubt. The Bible leaves no doubt about salvation and how people may have eternal life through the blood of Jesus.
If it was as important to Jesus as it is to me …. then perhaps Jesus would have included women’s ordination in his prayer in John 17.
But Jesus prayed most of all for us — in this modern time — to have unity and to love each other just as Jesus and the Father are in unity.
Let us come together as a people to point the way to heaven through the blood of Jesus to those who have not found the way. Let us love our fellowman enough to not allow our differences of opinion to get in the way of the gift of eternal life. Let us not allow anything to keep us from saving someone for eternity. Every moment we spend arguing over these issues could be a moment we could have saved someone.
Like “Shindler’s List” may we not regret our lost minutes as he regretted the funds he could have used to save one more Jew, if he would have just sold one more item.
Posted by: Kathy Marson (not verified) | 26 June 2010 at 5:02

Quran vs Bible June 26, 2010

“Traditionally faithful [Muslims] believe that the Qur’an exists exactly as it is, in heaven, and was given to Muhammed by God in smallish doses, over a period of two decades. There were no editors, no translators, no interpreters, no process of canonization, no mutations over time–and to discuss the possibility of alternate truths amounts not just to scholarly disagreement but to blasphemy.
“Unlike the Bible, the Qur’an is not a narrative. It contains few psychologically complex characters, and even fewer stories. It is a divine revelation that came straight from God. It is in itself holy. Generations of scholars have observed that the proper analogy for the Qur’an is not the New Testament but Jesus himself.” (Heaven, by Lisa Miller, Harper, 2010).
To be absolutely clear, I am not a Muslim. My Savior is neither the Bible nor the latest list of fundamental beliefs; it is Jesus of Nazareth. The difference is infinite. No one–no one–will label me out of my worship of Him.
Posted by: Chris Blake (not verified) | 26 June 2010 at 4:32

A most concise explanation of Propitiation June 11, 2010

From a comment on Spectrum to Tim Jenning’s post on the so-called Healing Substitution Model

http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2010/06/07/healing_substitution_model

To Pat:

Regarding propitiation…

I confess to a mild amount of confusion when it comes to this subject and how it is traditionally taught. I can understand why it has been called a “pagan” concept. It is, in fact, a “pagan” word which John probably used because it was familiar to his readers. Those readers were no strangers to the concept of propititation (Greek: hilasmos), only they were accustomed to the truly pagan use of it…humans sacrificing their gifts to appease whichever of their “gods” was “angry,” and thus hopefully securing peace for themselves. I think it’s quite possible John used this word deliberately, because it would literally shock his readers to hear that in this case, God Himself is the one who offers the gift. In presenting it this way, John took what they traditionally knew and turned it on its head.

Now, here is where I get a little confused, so I’ll just present the two ways this could be interpreted along with some of my own thoughts & ponderings on the subject…

Interpretation 1: God offered the “propitiation” to Himself to “pay” for the sins by which He had been so offended, in order to save us.

Interpretation 2: God offered the propitiation to us in order to save us.

I’ve often heard the first interpretation taught. Yet, it leaves some questions for me. Where did the idea come from that God basically gave the gift AND received it? Does that really make sense? Wouldn’t that be a little like me having an argument with my brother, and then standing in front of a mirror, apologizing to myself on his behalf, hoping that the relationship could then be restored? Wouldn’t it make more sense to actually go to my brother, explain how I’ve been hurt by his actions, but that I do not hold it against him and wish for the relationship to be restored?

Could this be what God was actually doing? Sin caused a change in us…it made us turn away from God in distrust. God, in love, sent His only Son into the world not to condemn it, but to save it. His gift (propitiation) was given to US, not to Himself.

Regarding wrath:

As I understand it, the Biblical definition of wrath is God turning away from (or letting go of) the people who have rejected Him. Thus, as you said, many Bible writers accurately say that Christ came to turn aside God’s wrath…because Christ made the way for us to see God’s true character of love, and thus causes all who respond to that love to be reconciled to Him. For all those who are thus saved, God never has to turn away from them…his wrath has indeed, been “turned aside.” By making a way for us to trust and cling to Him, God provided the way for His not having to “let go.”
Posted by: Eve Parker (not verified) | 09 June 2010 at 8:33

Tim responds to another comment explaining why having a “correct” model of salvation – a truer picture of God – can be important:

Bill Garber,

If a person was dying from a terminal disease, and a doctor has a remedy, the person does not need to understand how the remedy was discovered, procured, manufactured, or even how it works to benefit from taking it. But the person does need to trust the doctor enough to take the remedy. Likewise, from our perspective as sinners, you are right, we do not need to know how Christ’s mission to earth achieves our salvation, nor how the Holy Spirit makes that effectual in our lives, but we do need to trust God (our heavenly physician) and open our hearts to Him.

But, for those who like to study and know more about God, how He works, what Christ accomplished, God has invited us to understand these things, not as a means to salvation, but as opportunity to have greater appreciation for the One who saves us.

Understanding this, we understand that if an enemy wanted to prevent our terminal patient from living, one strategy might be to misrepresent the doctor as a person who is angry and wrathful at those who refuse his remedy and if you don’t comply with his conditions, this doctor will torture and kill you. If the patient believed such a thing about the doctor it would undermine trust and prevent the healing of the patient. Such a concept would cause greater fear of the doctor than the terminal disease. This is what the penal model does, it misrepresents God and undermines trust in God ultimately obstructing many individuals from experiencing the healing God would have them experience.
Posted by: Tim Jennings | 09 June 2010 at 11:36

I appreciate Tamara’s simple yet evocative illustration:

>>I don’t fear God’s vengeance, For having been justified by faith we are saved from wrath in Him. That is love and that is the Character of the redemptive activity of the God/Christ I love.
(posted by pat)

If my boyfriend put a gun to my head and said “love me or you will die”…. even if I love him with all of my heart already, the fact that he would kill me if I didn’t choose to love him, would completely take the love away. Perfect love casts out all fear.

Is your position that if you were placed in a similar situation that you would have absolutely no fear because you loved that person and so you had faith that they would not kill you? But what if they put the gun to your brother or sister? And your brother and sister said “No, I don’t love you”.. and boom, dead. Would you still love the one that shot them?

I don’t know about you… but I would be pretty fearful. I would feel the need to prove to him that I love him, to make sure that he didn’t pull the trigger on me. This fear would drive out love completely.

Conversely, If my boyfriend saw me standing on the edge of cliff about to fall off and said “if you love me you won’t go any futher! take my hand, please, or you will die!” …that is how I see God’s wrath. It’s my decision whether or not to walk off of a cliff… but God has told me what will happen if I do. If I fall off the cliff, he’s not the one that killed me, but by my own decisions and the impact they will have on my life.

And so, my decision to take his hand (which it fully is!) is based off of love! it’s me saying, “oh! you are totally right! i’m way too close to the edge.. i don’t want to fall and die! Thank you so much for telling me and being there to offer your hand and help me back away from the edge.”

I know I’m not as articulate as many people on here, but that’s the way I see it.. the comparison of views being discussed here.

—

On a side note..

Tim,
Thank you so much for shedding light on the reason for God’s apparent “killing sprees” in the OT… it’s always been a hard concept to grasp, in light of what I believe to be a loving God and not an angry, vengeful God. It makes so much sense now. I truly believe that if we look at scripture with a mindset of a loving God we will find the truth and real intent of his actions.
Posted by: Tamara (not verified) | 10 June 2010 at 3:38

Pat,
After quite some dialogue between us, we are, as I suspected, right where this dialogue began, differing because of differing beliefs about God’s law.
It all stems from that. When one holds God’s law is somehow imposed, enacted, created and put upon His creation,then one inevitably concludes God, in order to be just, must “judge” to determine penalties and then impose those penalties. Such individuals, having concluded certain things about God’s law then “filter” the Bible in ways to come to the conclusions as you have described.
However, when we view God’s law differently, as an eternal expression of Himself, as the design template for life, then all our conclusions go down a different trail, and we find God’s judgments are merely accurate diagnosis of the condition in which people exist. And it is the actual condition of each person, either in trust with God and thus restored in heart and mind via God’s initiative and actions, or out of trust with God and thus hardened in selfishness, which determines our eternal destiny. And the punishment is the natural outgrowth of such an unhealed condition.
All the exegesis done in such “scholarly” ways, to “prove” Biblical support for the view you have espoused, is all dependent first on the “filter” of how one views God’s law. If the premise about God’s law is wrong, then all one’s exegesis leads only to errant conclusions.
Be blessed,
Tim
Posted by: Tim Jennings | 11 June 2010 at 10:07

“Satan led men to conceive of God as a being whose chief attribute is stern justice,–one who is a severe judge, a harsh, exacting creditor. He pictured the Creator as a being who is watching with jealous eye to discern the errors and mistakes of men, that He may visit judgments upon them. It was to remove this dark shadow, by revealing to the world the infinite love of God, that Jesus came to live among men.”
Steps To Christ p.2

Desire of Ages p. 822 April 26, 2010

The Saviour’s commission to the disciples included all the believers. It includes all believers in Christ to the end of time. It is a fatal mistake to suppose that the work of saving souls depends alone on the ordained minister. All to whom the heavenly inspiration has come are put in trust with the gospel. All who receive the life of Christ are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men. For this work the church was established, and all who take upon themselves its sacred vows are thereby pledged to be co-workers with Christ.

New comments on women’s ordination April 25, 2010

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/column/2010/04/23/jesus_ordains_woman

For my generation where I live the issue of ordination for women is a non-issue. What many of us find unbelievable is that so many of other generations are getting so caught up in all the hot air about it. Just like it would seem if heaps of church people were getting into major conflicts over whether women should wear pants or not, or whether we should have slavery or not, or whether christians should be socially engaged or not, or what color the church carpet should be.

The “church” is losing us, not because we turn our backs on Jesus but we get tired of last century’s games. If we are going to fight battles they will be the ones on the streets, not the one’s at home when there is no need to live at home anymore. It’s better to grow up and leave the toxic home of childhood and find new homes of safety. I’m not talking of finding a new denomination either – denominationalism is so not where we are at.

Invite us back for dinner one day – we might drop by for a visit if things are better. But until then, bye.

Posted by: Daniella (not verified) | 24 April 2010 at 8:29

Soren Kierkegaard on what the world needs April 24, 2010

What the age needs is not a genius – it has had geniuses enough, but a martyr, who in order to teach men to obey would himself be obedient unto death. What the age needs is awakening. And therefore someday, not only my writings but my whole life, all the intriguing mystery of the machine will be studied and studied. I never forget how God helps me and it is therefore my last wish that everything may be to his honour.

Ellen White on Unity April 18, 2010

Pacific Union Record
March 26, 1903
Unity of Action Essential

Unity of action is essential in the Lord’s work. His followers are to be of one heart and one mind, speaking the same thing. But not all have the same talents or the same office. “There is a variety of gifts.” Christ gives different men different abilities, to be used in different lines of work. Some are specially fitted to carry on one line of work, while others are adapted for another line. Some will labor in one way, and some in another. Some will preach the Word, others will use their ability in writing and translating books. Still others will give themselves to the work of circulating the books containing the message of present truth.
It is by the Lord’s appointment that men of varied minds are brought into the church, to be laborers together with Him. His servants have many different minds to meet, and different gifts are needed. The apostle John was different from the apostle Peter. Each had his own work. Each was to subdue his peculiarities, that he might be a help to the other.

Is Christ divided?–No. Christ abiding in a soul will not quarrel with Christ in another soul. If we are at variance with those around us, we may know that it is because self has not been crucified. He whom Christ makes free is free indeed. And we are not free unless we love one another as Christ has loved us. Our characters must be molded in harmony with Christ’s character; our wills must be surrendered to His will. Then we shall sit together in heavenly places with Him. Then we shall work together, without a thought of collision.

Little differences, dwelt upon, lead to actions that destroy Christian fellowship. Let us not allow the enemy thus to gain the advantage over us. Let us keep drawing nearer to God and to one another. Then we shall be as trees of righteousness, planted by the Lord, and watered with the river of life. And how fruitful we shall be! Did not Christ say, “Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit”?

The prayer that Christ offered for His disciples just before His crucifixion reveals God’s purpose concerning us. The heart of the Saviour is set upon His followers fulfilling God’s purpose, in all its height and depth. They are to be one in Him, even though they are scattered the world over. But God can not make them one with Christ and with one another unless they are willing to give up their way for His way.

Harmony and union existing among men of varied dispositions is the strongest witness that can be borne that God has sent His Son into the world to save sinners. It is our privilege to bear this witness. But in order to do this, we must place ourselves under Christ’s command. The tender regard shown by the Saviour for His church calls upon us to keep our souls in His love. Each one has something to do. Let us strive earnestly and untiringly to fulfill God’s purpose for us “till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God,” unto perfect men and women, “unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”

Interesting Comment on Christ’s Factional Alignment April 17, 2010

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/sabbath_school/2010/04/11/spiritual_and_physical_fitness

The challenge is that Christ refused to align himself with either the Herodians (the pragmatists/realists of his day) or the zealots (the just warriors of his day). He also refused to align himself with the Hillelite pharisees (who basically tried to stay out of politics except where “religious liberty” issues were concerned), or the Essenes (who, we might say, went into the wilderness to set up self-supporting institutes and avoid corrupting themselves with worldly concerns).
Posted by: Ronald Osborn (not verified) | 15 April 2010 at 8:48

Comments on Women’s Ordination April 16, 2010

From comments on Spectrum Magazine’s blog:

What does God think? God gave the commission to all of us to go and preach the Gospel to
the world…Women and Men…are we doing that? He has called us to a Holy Priesthood and we are all Ordained by Him, to do His work. Who can change that? Certainly not Dougs opinion!
Whether the SDA church and its male dominated committees want to ordain women or not is a mute point, God already has!
So refocus, it isn’t about us, or who thinks women can or can’t do something as well as men, God see us as the same and we a equal in His eyes, that’s all that really matters! Is irrelevant, except maybe in having a paycheck, leverage and power to influence the direction the SDA church is taking. Jesus had none of these, and He didn’t have any support from the official Sabbath keeping Church of His day. That did not stop Him from going forth with His work of revealing the Love of the Father, though His love for all, men and women, equally.
So what if the SDA church is oppressive towards women, God isn’t and that’s all that matters…just go do the work. Each individual person who accepts, love and lives in Him is His Temple, with His indwelling Spirit in us. We are His church individually and collectively, regardless of the stand taken officially within any church including the SDA!
Posted by: Lisa Foote (not verified) | 13 April 2010 at 2:24

It pains and frustrates me to hear anti-women’s ordination (AWO)advocates toss around elitist rhetoric like ‘neglecting Bible Truth’ and pushing the issue ‘regardless of what the Bible says’

This article and many, many more show that the Bible is not as clear cut and dried as the AWO folks would like to think. Yet, despite logical arguments and an obvious cultural foundation that Paul is speaking within, these people still imply that everyone who favors women’s ordination are going against the Bible.

Yet these people in their zeal to defend ‘bible truth’ ignore Paul’s clear counsel on women being saved through child bearing, not speaking or teaching in church, and having NO authority in church. Somehow they gloss over this and still claim that they are defending ‘Bible Truth’ while all others are going against God’s Word.

Unbelievable hypocrisy.

Ignore the evidence, hold on steadfastly to their own views no matter the evidence or faulty logic and premises their beliefs are based on. Such methodology is typical of those too close minded to admit that their views may be incorrect and their interpretation faulty.

They have all the truth, if you speak against their version of the truth, you are going ‘against Bible Truth’. The Pharisees thought the same way.

It is interesting that so many who support Sunday sacredness, eternal torment and immortality of the soul also hold this same mindset and can staunchly hide behind their convincing proof texts and say that we SDAs not following ‘Bible Truths’ and call us heretics.

Yet the AWO folks would expect those people to open their minds and see that their interpretation is wrong. Somehow they don’t apply this same expectation to themselves. Like the Catholic Church they believe ‘the SDA church and EGW have not erred, nor cannot err’

Close minded, tight fisted, legalistic Pharisaism that determines they have all the truth, their interpretation of the bible is correct and all others are ‘going against the word of God’.

Sad, sad, sad.
Posted by: Darrell (not verified) | 13 April 2010 at 2:36

If homilitic skill is the means–then about 1 out of a hundred male or female pass the test. In Adventism, I can count very few. H.M.S. Richards, Paul Heubach, Graham Maxwell, Edward Heppenstall, Smuts, Alden Thompson, Otto Christiansen, Harry Tippett, and C. B. Haynes. The rest at best were Mister Sir Echo with a very unconvincing proposition if any. I have sat at the feet of only two women pastors. Each was the equal of the above. Preparation not gender is the test of competence, commitment, and communication. The Gospel is far more important that gonads. Tom
Posted by: Tom Zwemer | 13 April 2010 at 4:23

I think that two comments deserve more attention. First, Scott Severance made a very valid point regarding the heated denunciations of SECC’s statement: Is anyone interested in actually addressing the many points that SECC laid out in the statement above? Have people actually read the statement to know what they are responding to? Or is this just a forum for airing private hangups with a contemporary issue?

Second, Alexander Carpenter made an important point about the absurd hyperbole of some of the rhetoric employed in this discussion. You really mean to tell me that people who support women ministering in Jesus’ name represent some dark, evil force in this world? Seriously?

Have you never read what is written in Scripture:

“Then John said, ‘Teacher, we saw someone using your name to force demons out of a person. We told him to stop, because he does not belong to our group.’

But Jesus said, ‘Do not stop him, because anyone who uses my name to do powerful things cannot say evil things about me. Whoever is not against us is with us.’” Mark 9:38-40

Posted by: Jared Wright | 13 April 2010 at 5:00

Of course Jared, you would realize that Mark 9:38-40 is addressed to men.

There is no end to this and other debates. Those who like DB will rally for him and “God’s true Remnant” and pay little attention of how scripture is used. Those in favor of woman’s ordination will talk culture and intent. Jim and Bill will liken themselves to Jesus and call all men law breakers and haters of God and believe they like Elijah, stand alone for truth (my guess is that they, left alone together would soon be arguing).

This all stems back to the belief that some how we as a church stand alone in the world and have a unique grasp of truth. We are pivotal in the history of the universe. The vanity of this brings us down to quibbling about what it takes and means to be the apple of God’s eye. Here then is where we make of nothing the price that was paid and the redemption we are given preferring to stand alone.

Maybe try Galatians 5, Micah6:8, Matt. 25 – The Sheep and the Goats and, I don’t know maybe Colossians 3.

We have been promised a guide/comforter who would live in us and guide us to truth and even that the truth would be very good.
Posted by: Dick Larsen | 13 April 2010 at 5:36

Evangelism is teaching all things about Jesus: The Alpha and Omega of our existence. He made us and He Redeemed us. We are doubly His.

So where do we start? Why we start where the people are: in their work, in their homes, in their future, in their interests, in their concerns. That might be gas prices, or obesity, or mortgages, or car payments, or doctor bills. It is not likely to be what is the meaning of 666? Or what does the dragon with ten horns represent? Not even should women of talent, education, training and experience be ordained?

It isn’t even where did I come from? Why am I here? Or even where do I go when I die?

It is most likely: “How do I get out of this rat race with a whole skin?”

People worldwide are the walking wounded of 21st century. They don’t even know how deep those wounds are.

If there was ever a time to introduce America to Psalms 46 and 91 it is now. If the theme is “It Is Written” then let us share some writing with hope and redemption in it.

How does one cope when the levee breaks? How does one cope when wild fire levels ones home? How does one cope when they get an eviction notice? How does one cope with a pink slip in the last pay envelope? How does one cope when a uniformed military officer brings a note that reads “The War Department regrets to inform you?”

Christ is depicted in Revelation as standing at an open door inviting each one of us in. It is His Church that should be welcoming the stressed souls of the world: welcoming them in for healing and sending them out to serve.

We sing: “I Love to Tell the Story” with great gusto but when and where was the last time we told it; and to whom? If we “have this hope burning within our hearts” let us set someone else on fire for Christ!

No, the Gospel will not prevent a foreclosure. but it will help one cope with the fall-out of such a calamity.

Why not share it with the guy with an SVU that drinks $3.00 a gallon gasoline and lives 30 miles from a job that pays the same as when gasoline was a dollar-five.

The place to start giving answers is when you know the question.
The question is: “Is there any light at the end of this tunnel?” No better answer can be found than in the Promise of Jesus to come again and take us to the house He has prepared. Not that He’s coming again to “burn” all those who doubt the guy with the remote control on a power point projector with a 19th century message. Or that God has a gender bias. Tom
Posted by: Tom Zwemer | 14 April 2010 at 5:53

Consider this: was Jesus generally inclusive or exclusive in His ministry? Did He tend to empower or demote people? Do you truly believe that He would object to a female dedicating her life to His service as a pastor simply because of her gender? Do you really think that He would deny her the blessing of her fellow ministers (ordination), or countenance paying her less for doing the same work as her male counterparts?

As you must know from reading your Bible, God is not limited to using males to advance His work, nor was Jesus comfortable with a status quo that relegated women to a life of subjugation. Reread the story of Deborah, and of Miriam, Esther and Ruth. Read Romans 16 and note how many women’s names are listed (including *gasp* a female apostle!). Read the resurrection story – if women were so much less important than men to Jesus, why did He appear to them first and entrust them with telling the men the most important piece of news in the history of the world? Why did He include so many women in His inner circle – Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, Mary and Martha the sisters of Lazarus, and “many others” (Luke 8:1-3)? Against the traditions of His time and place, Jesus treated men and women as equals. How can we do less and call ourselves “Christians?”
Posted by: Lorelei (not verified) | 14 April 2010 at 11:51

I all this I suggest we remember one biblical fact. The “ordination” of individuals to a special “pastoral” role in God’s ministry by human committees is not a biblical imperative! In NT times, individuals are appointed to various roles (great and lowly) in the church — and in many cases, it is God who instructs the church to choose these individuals. We all have some role to play in God’s kingdom – whether we be male or female.

We can read the words, but miss the message. The Bible’s message is one of reconciliation, redemption and restoration.

Portrait of a Well Lived Life April 14, 2010

Today I feel alone
Afraid that the future will not hold
The answer for me

Perhaps I am called to a life of endless wandering
Perhaps the things I chase will never be
Found

These thoughts keep invading my mind
Did I let them in?
Did I give them permission?
I do not want them to disturb the tranquility of today
The peace I had yesterday must withstand these lies

Yet my mind wanders
It wanders from the certainty that is in You
My life has a purpose
Whether it be for my joy or that of others
I exist for a reason
One that I cannot see right now
But that reason means that tomorrow will dawn
Anew
And all this will be forgotten

Strength for today
But not just that…
Bright hope for tomorrow too

There is no man as needy as I
But no man as blessed as I am too
For He does catch me when I fall
He sends his angels to watch over me
He picks up the peices of my broken heart
And through the night He mends them
For the dawn

This is the God I serve
Not one of dreams or fantasy
But the one who works in my reality
(Even the realness of my pain)
Painting, though it be with blood and tears, the portrait of
A well lived life

Ellen White, on the way to Australia, In Honolulu April 11, 2010

All the followers of Christ are to be witnesses for him. Every one who receives the precious treasure of truth is to impart of the same to others.

But the truth is often presented in such a manner that it does not have the influence it otherwise would have. A controversial spirit is encouraged. Many dwell almost exclusively upon doctrinal subjects, while the nature of true piety, experimental godliness, receives little attention. Jesus, his love and grace, his self-denial and self-sacrifice, his meekness and forbearance, are not brought before the people as they should be. The errors existing everywhere have, like parasites, fastened their deadly poison upon the boughs of truth and in many minds have become identified with it; many who accept the truth teach it in a harsh spirit. A false conception of it is given to the people, and the truth is made of no effect to those whose hearts are not softened and subdued by the Holy Spirit.

Many weave so much of their own spirit into the presentation of truth, that the truth has the appearance of bearing the impress of man. In dealing with those who are in error, they argue, argue, and contend, and thus obscure the beauty and sacredness of truth, because their own hearts are not sanctified by it. The spirit of debate, of controversy, is a device of Satan to stir up combativeness, and thus eclipse the truth as it is in Jesus. Many have thus been repulsed instead of being won to Christ.

Review and Herald, 9 Feb 1892

Do You Even Know Me Anymore – Mark Schultz April 5, 2010

“It’s cold tonight”,
I heard her say.
She was staring out the window as I came home late.
She tried to smile,
But looked away.
Oh but I could see the tears were running down her face.
She said “You go to work,
You pay the bills,
I stay at home,
And I make the meals.

But you don’t even know who I am anymore,
You’re a million miles away,
Though I see you every day.
And I’ve been waiting right here,
Over all these years.
And sometimes I get so lonely,
I need to know you love me,
But do you even know me anymore?”

I turned around,
To see my son.
Well I remember his first birthday. Now he’s 21.
I missed his life,
I missed it all,
Oh to him I was a man just living down the hall.
He said “I learned to live,
Without you Dad,
But I’d give it all
Just to have you back.

But you don’t even know who I am anymore.
I used to wait at all my games,
But still you never came,
And I’ve been waiting right here,
Over all these years.
For the time you said you’d owe me,
I wanted you to show me,
But do you even know me anymore?”

I’ve watched my days,
Turn into years,
And now I’m wondering how I wound up here.
I dreamed my dreams,
I made my plans,
But all I’ve built here is an empty man.

And I don’t even know who I am anymore.
God I’m praying through the tears,
Let me make up all these years.
Oh have I waited too long?
Can I start again?
To be the man You’ve wanted of me.
I’m begging You to show me,
But do You even know me anymore?

On Inspiration and Changing Your Paradigm April 2, 2010

I very much appreciated the insight of gabe on one of the comments to Spectrum’s article quoting Dorothee and Brad Cole on Doug Batchelor’s stance on ordaining women:

http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2010/04/01/dorothee_and_brad_cole_batchelors_sermon_its_really_about_inspiration

why oh why oh why oh why….??????

i just don’t get the fuss. some things are very plain and clear – but a worship of a cultural book, a determined bibliolatry, an adherence to the bible as a book of mandated rules creates distortions and conflicts, disturbed communities and distressed individuals. This whole debate is incredibly ludicrous and if you get outside circles of fundamentalist people it is a massive anti-intellectual turnoff.

Before humans realised the earth wasn’t the centre of the universe, the planets were tracked, mapped and considered to be “wandering stars”. they had mathematically mapped out courses through the sky. once it was realised that the earth wasn’t the centre, the paths of the planets suddenly became much simpler to understand. i see the way so many issues being discussed in the adventist context are much like this. people try to hold onto the old ways and created contorted “formulas” and twisted logic to justify the reasoning. so change the paradigm. realise we are using old thinking that doesn’t match with reality. look for the higher universal values and you’ll find you don’t need to contort your mind to make the old understandings fit.

to live literally by the bible is abusive in many ways (of course not all.) it’s time to wake up to that and let the old prejudices go.

think big. live big. discover a god who is bigger than all the human pettiness – even the bible’s.
Posted by: gabe (not verified) | 02 April 2010 at 7:50

Closing Paragraph to Chapter 2 of The Great Controversy March 19, 2010

There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of today. The apostle Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber? The only reason is that the church has conformed to the world’s standard and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and His apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.

Emerson on Success March 19, 2010

To laugh often and much;

To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition;

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Righteousness March 19, 2010

Right-ness in how God sees me — Love/Grace
Right-ness in my relationship to God — Faith/Trust
Right-ness in my thoughts and treatment towards others — Holiness/Perfection

This is righteousness. The one who worries about legal standing may emphasise the former. The one who seeks sanctification may speak often about the latter. And the one who seeks to find harmony, unity and assurance of salvation may favour the view that all God asks is trust. But all are essential and all are the result of God first loving us.

For God is love. And the natural response to love fully realised is a relationship of faith. And the eventual result of a life lived in relationship with God is holiness.

http://ntri.wordpress.com/2010/01/09/towards-a-simpler-gospel/

Fear God? March 18, 2010

Does not mean we’re meant to be scared of God.

Just like the phobos of a snake shocks us (hopefully) into immediate action. Fear for God is the persuasive awareness of the present power of God (see David Asscherick’s What Do You Expect?).

It is a call to “take God seriously.”

Ellen White on the Significance of Marriage March 14, 2010

It is from the marriage hour that many men and women date their success or failure in this life, and their hopes of the future life.
— RH, Feb 2, 1886.

Let the questions be raised, Will this union help me heavenward? will it increase my love for God? and will it enlarge my sphere of usefulness in this life?
— RH, Jan 26, 1886.

Is this life meaningless if I believe in an afterlife? February 28, 2010

A common “straw man” argument that atheists use against religion is that if there is an afterlife there is no reason to value this life.

I would suggest that most Christians believe that “eternal life” begins now. That this life is the life we will have in heaven. And that we should make the best of our ONE life. (Sometimes making the best of this life would involve giving up our life, e.g. running into a burning building in an attempt to save someone.)

It is akin to thinking, because I’m not going to be in primary school forever, I mean I’ll eventually be in secondary school and ultimately university and I will graduate and have a job, that I should not value primary school.

Or even, on a European holiday, while I’m in Paris, I won’t take it seriously because I’ll be in Milan next week.

This is our one life. Every moment counts. Does it really matter if I believe that this life has the potential to go on forever (if God’s promises are true)?

Rather (and this is the Christian argument), the Christian worldview and values cause us to appreciate life (and the lives of others) all the more.

Is there really no evidence for God? February 26, 2010

Richard Dawkin’s uses the “who designed the designer” argument in his book The God Delusion.

The basic premise is that God cannot be a good explanation for our origins, because we still then need to explain where God came from. Of course this illustrates a weakness of all conclusions, because it assumes that all things need an explanation. If all explanations need and explanation we have an infinite regress of explanations, none of which could ever be accepted as fact because they need further explanations.

But the truth is, this is not how reason, or science, or even religion works. If it were, we would never be able to explain anything! It is not necessary for every hypothesis to be further explained to be the most logical explanation of a given observation. For example, before Newton explained the physical behaviour of gravity, before modern science explained it in terms of gravitons, gravity existed, and everyone was aware that something made objects fall downwards consistently. Gravity eluded explanation, but many who could not explain it certainly understood and believed in its existence. The absence of explanation does not make a hypothesis necessarily flawed. Instead, the best most logical hypothesis should predict lines of evidence which the investigator must seek out to provide a greater exposition of reality.

For example, if a group of archaeologists were to stumble across a pile of arrowheads and pottery shards, it would not be an unreasonable inference that there was a tribal culture here at some point in time. Even if no such culture has been known to date, and no other line of evidence is available to support this inference. Even if we can’t explain where this tribal culture came from or went to. It does not make this an illogical explanation. On the contrary, a tribal culture is the most simple logical conclusion to infer from the evidence at hand.

The most logical conclusion does not in itself need a further explanation or further evidence to be true. But, it should encourage the investigator to seek out corroborating evidence.

God may be the logical explanation of the origins of our universe. God does not need further explanation, but we should investigate to see whether there might me supporting evidence for God’s existence.

William Lane Craig on Morality & my own take on the Problem of Evil February 26, 2010

How can the atheist attack religion on moral grounds (e.g. religious folks do a lot of harm – brainwashing and child abuse), when for a naturalist there is no objective source of morality, immorality is no more than unfashionable, unconventional behaviour.

–

It has often been claimed by atheists, after Epicurus, Rowe and Draper, that if there be a good and powerful God, evil should not exist. Evil does exist, so either God does not exist, or he is not good or not powerful.

But what is evil? If immorality is nothing more than behaviour that goes against social convention, what then is evil? Without invoking free will, or limited knowledge (we don’t know how things will work out, how can we judge things), or even that God will make it right in time. Using C. S. Lewis’ statement:

My argument against God was that the universe seemed so cruel and unjust. But how had I got this idea of just and unjust? A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line. What was I comparing this universe with when I called it unjust?… Of course I could have given up my idea of justice by saying it was nothing but a private idea of my own. But if I did that, then my argument against God collapsed too–for the argument depended on saying the world was really unjust, not simply that it did not happen to please my fancies. (Mere Christianity, p45-46).

–

Perhaps an illustrative allegory helps establish the point. My mum has a cookie jar where she puts cookies for me and my sister. There are many times when I find the cookie jar empty, because my sister greedily took the lot. My mum replenishes the jar frequently, but this doesn’t mean the jar will always have some cookies in it. If I find the cookie jar empty, does this make my mother a bad mother who doesn’t ensure I have cookies to eat? Not at all, my sister’s freedom comes into play. The fact that it takes time for cookies to be baked and put into the jar necessitates that it be empty on occasion. But moreover, what objective standard do I have to say that my mother’s goodness is contingent on her provision of cookies?

Furthermore, does the absence of cookies in the jar prove that my mother does not exist?! On the contrary, perhaps the fact that I expect cookies to be in the jar proves my mother does exist!

Hence the point: where do we find this moral standard, this definition of “evil”, that we hold God accountable to. And by His failure to meet it, we create a proof that he doesn’t exist? In practical terms, the argument is nothing more than ‘God doesn’t exist because He permits things we deem “unfashionable”‘.

Justin Brierley moderates a Stephen Meyer vs Peter Atkins debate February 25, 2010

A wonderful debate.

Link to a transcript by Wintery Knight

Here’s a link to 500+ such debates by various scholars.

In particular William Lane Craig’s best debates.

Intelligent Falling February 25, 2010

I like this description of the Intelligent Falling facebook group.

The “theory” of gravitation is just that, a theory and not fact. I do not understand why Newtonists still *believe* in gravity and Newtons “laws” since Einstein proved them fundamentally wrong about a century ago; along with many of the observable facts that prove the theory of gravity wrong. Nothing in our world exists without a cause. Why then does all matter experience an attraction to itself? Only an Intelligent Faller can explain why this happens.

Most gravationists do not believe in an Intelligent Faller, and so have to dream up ways for how the universe came to be, and why things fall. For example, most gravationists believe in the big bang “theory”; where apparently all matter and energy was condensed into a singularity and then exploded, forming all the galaxies, stars planets and moons we see today. What gravationists fail to admit though, is that this theory violates the 2nd law of thermodynamics, which states that entropy, or disorder is always increasing in a closed system (the universe). How could order come from non order without the power of the Intelligent Faller? The big bang theory itself contradicts the theory of gravitation; for if gravity were to pull everything together, how could the big bang occur?! It just doesn’t make sense!

If gravity were truly a random and unguided force as gravationists suggest, then gravity would act on each object separately and pull them each in a different direction. But gravity pulls everything *down*. What are the odds of a random force pulling us all in the same direction? An IF is the only intelligent answer. As a matter of fact, not only does gravity pull everything in the down; it acts on objects of different masses with the same acceleration: 9.8m/s^2. It has been shown that an acceleration of 9.8m/s^2 towards the centre of the earth is perfect for all life. How could a blind force such as gravity account for this? Why, if this force were of the order 10^-10 stronger or weaker we would not exist! Such is the power of the Intelligent Faller.

But don’t get me wrong, we can observe micro-gravitation; for when I drop my pen, it falls to the ground at 9.8m/s^2. But how do Newtonists prove macro-gravitation? That is; the orbits of planets and such? When I throw my pen into the sky, it does not orbit the earth; as this is against what the IF wills, and it merely falls back down to the ground, proving macro-gravitation wrong.

The truth is that Newtonists and their theory of gravitation have to take a bigger leap of faith than the IF-ers have to. We have a reason why things fall, all they have is the “graviton” an unobserved particle which has no proof of existence! Newton even recanted on his death-bed, realising that his theory was completely absurd, and promptly flew into the ceiling.

Naturalism vs Supernaturalism February 25, 2010

Two difficult questions:

(1) Many cultures have existed, and many have died out, and many of them have written books on spiritual themes. Why is the Christian bible (or Hebrew bible or Muslim Quran) true whilst the others are not? Why do any of them have to be true? Why is the Judeo-Christian God real? Why not Zeus, or the tooth-fairy?

(2) How do we know that the ad initio position of the scientific method that explanations of the world (derived through science) can only be naturalistic/material (thereby discount anything supernatural). How do we know that position (though necessary for science to exist at all) is not flawed to begin with? It is even possible for science (through empiric experimentation to confirm or disprove testable predicted hypotheses) to show that alleged supernatural phenomena do not exist, when that is a foundational pre-requisite assumption?

Living Life to the Full February 14, 2010

Use all you have to do good for others

Spend a quiet moment with someone you love

Be moved to tears

Laugh until it hurts

Think deep and meaningful thoughts

Look at something beautiful

Make yourself sweat, and be a good exhausted at the end of the day

Sleep like a baby

About Evangelism February 14, 2010

God is good. He loves each person more than I ever could. It is His work in the hearts of people, not my own. The disappointment and the pain is His own. Yet I may share in His joy when someone who is broken finds healing, when one who is lost is found, when the child comes home.

It can sometimes be a very lonely life, but God makes all the difference.

God is glorified in those people who are genuine, who never pretend to be or feel what they are or do not. Such people seek the good for others, only for that purpose, to see the good in others.

Those who are in the church are not better than others. They are simply in the best place for them. And those who do not believe are no worse than believers, they are worse off, because they lack the Someone who can meet their needs.

January 26, 2010

KP Yohannan — Christ’s Call To Follow In His Footsteps

The call of Christ is not just to be informed, but to do something about it. You are bombarded with information. You get enough spiritual information in one week that all of China and India people don’t get in five years! … Because you got people coming here, large numbers, … nice building … let’s not fool ourselves – that don’t mean we are impacting the world. Go into the world and touch the poor, the needy … the dying, the hurting… and rescue them! That is the call of Christ! The call of Christ is to die, not to live. … I know those are strong words. Unless you are sensitive to the Lord, you can easily misunderstand. … We misunderstand obedience for legalism and bondage. … Our priority, number one, must be… Lord I love you and out of that, I give all to touch the lost world.

1 Peter 2.21 – To this you were called because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in His footsteps.

David Wilkerson — A Call to Anguish

I look at the whole religious scene today and all I see are the inventions and ministries of man and flesh. It’s mostly powerless. It has no impact on the world. And I see more of the world coming into the church and impacting the church, rather than the church impacting the world. … An obsession with entertainment in God’s house. A hatred of correction and a hatred of reproof. Nobody wants to hear it any more. Whatever happened to anguish in the house of God? …

Anguish means extreme pain and distress. The emotions so stirred that it becomes painful. Acute deeply felt inner pain because of conditions about you, in you, or around you. Anguish. Deep pain. Deep sorrow. The agony of God’s heart. …

We’ve held on to our religious rhetoric and our revival talk but we’ve become so passive. All true passion is born out of anguish. … You search the scripture and you’ll find that when God determined to recover a ruined situation… He would share His own anguish for what God saw happening to His church and to His people. And He would find a praying man and take that man and literally baptize him in anguish. You find it in the book of Nehemiah. Jerusalem is in ruins. How is God going to deal with this? How is God going to restore the ruin? Now folks, look at me… Nehemiah was not a preacher, he was a career man. But this was a praying man.

And God found a man who would not just have a flash of emotion. Not just some great sudden burst of concern and then let it die. He said: “No. I broke down and I wept and I mourned and I fasted. And then I began to pray night and day. Why didn’t these other men… why didn’t they have an answer? Why didn’t God use them in restoration? Why didn’t they have a word? Because there was no sign of anguish. No weeping. Not a word of prayer. It’s all ruin.

Does it matter to you today? Does it matter to you at all that God’s spiritual Jerusalem, the church, is now married to the world? That there is such a coldness sweeping the land? Closer than that… does it matter about the Jerusalem that is in our own hearts? The sign of ruin that’s slowly draining spiritual power and passion. Blind to lukewarmness, blind to the mixture that’s creeping in. That’s all the devil wants to do is to get the fight out of you and kill it. So you won’t labor in prayers anymore, you won’t weep before God anymore. You can sit and watch television and your family go to hell.

Let me ask you… is what I just said convicting to you at all? There is a great difference between anguish and concern. Concern is something that begins to interest you. You take an interest in a project or a cause or a concern or a need. And I want to tell you something. I’ve learned over all my years… of 50 years of preaching. If it is not born in anguish, if it had not been born of the Holy Spirit. Where what you saw and heard of the ruin that drove you to your knees, took you down into a baptism of anguish where you began to pray and seek God. I know now. Oh my God do I know it. Until I am in agony. Until I have been anguished over it… And all our projects, all our ministries, everything we do… Where are the Sunday school teachers that weep over kids they know are not hearing and are going to hell?

You see, a true prayer life begins at the place of anguish. You see, if you set your heart to pray, God’s going to come and start sharing His heart with you. Your heart begins to cry out: “Oh God, Your name is being blasphemed. The Holy Spirit is being mocked. The enemy is out trying to destroy the testimony of the Lord’s faithfulness and something has to be done.”

There is going to be no renewal, no revival, no awakening, until we are willing to let Him once again break us. Folks, it’s getting late, and it’s getting serious. Please don’t tell me… don’t tell me you’re concerned when you’re spending hours in front of internet or television. Come on. Lord, there are some that need to get to this altar and confess: “I am not what I was, I am not where I am supposed to be. God I don’t have Your heart or Your burden. I wanted it easy. I just wanted to be happy. But Lord, true joy comes out of anguish.” There’s nothing of the flesh that will give you joy. I don’t care how much money, I don’t care what kind of new house, there is absolutely nothing physical that can give you joy. It’s only what is accomplished by the Holy Spirit when you obey and take on His heart.

Carter Conlon — Run For Your Life

Listen to me like you’ve never listened to me ever in your life.

We have got to lay our lives down for the purposes of God. This is not a Sunday School picnic, the church of Jesus Christ. This is not an invitation to have continuous good time. This is a war for the souls of men.

Come out from among them. Run for your life. Because this is about your life. This is not just about an opposing theology or conflicting viewpoint on Jesus, this is about your life.

My mind is forever branded with the stories that I heard of police officers from the city of New York. As people were fleeing from a crumbling building there were police officers and firemen and others that were running towards the buildings saying “Run for your life,” at their own peril. And in some cases I believe they knew they were going to die but there was a sense of duty. I was crying out to God, I said “God, Oh Jesus, don’t let my sense of duty be less for Your Kingdom than these beloved firemen and policemen were for those who were perishing in a fallen tower. We are living in a generation when truth is falling into the streets. I want to be among those that are not running away from the conflict but running into the conflict saying, “Run for your life.”

Run from gospels that focus only on success and prosperity. Run!

Run from those who use the name of Christ only for personal gain. Run from those who are picking your pocket in the name of Jesus. Run!

Run from gospels that only focus on self-improvement. Run!

Run from churches where men and not Christ are glorified. Run!

Run Body of Christ, Run! Get out! Don’t touch the unclean thing.

Run from churches in America and Canada where there is no Bible. There is no cross in the theology. There is no soul-searching word. There is no repentance from sin. There is no mention of the blood of Jesus. Run! It’s unclean. Run!

Run from churches where you are comfortable in your sins. If you come into the house of God and you got sin in your life and your not convicted of it, you are at a table of devils.

Run from pulpits that are filled with political men, who are using the pulpit of God for a personal political agenda. Run!

Run from those who preach division between races and cultures. Run!

Run! Get out! Turn it off! Get away from it!

They know nothing of God.

Run from ungodly spasmodic movements and aimless empty prophesying. Beloved Church, run for your life!

Run from preachers that stand and tell stories and jokes. Run like you’ve never run before!

Marching Orders January 19, 2010

The time demands greater efficiency and deeper consecration. I cry to God, Raise up and send forth messengers filled with a sense of their responsibility, men in whose hearts self-idolatry, which lies at the foundation of all sin, has been crucified; who are willing to consecrate themselves without reserve to God’s service; whose souls are alive to the sacredness of the work and the responsibility of their calling; who are determined not to bring to God a maimed sacrifice, which costs them neither effort nor prayer.

The Duke of Wellington was once present where a party of Christian men were discussing the possibility of success in missionary effort among the heathen. They appealed to the duke to say whether in his judgment such efforts were likely to prove a success commensurate to the cost. The old soldier replied:

“Gentlemen, what are your marching orders? Success is not the question for you to discuss. If I read your orders aright, they run thus, ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.’ Gentlemen, obey your marching orders.”

My brethren, the Lord is coming, and we need to bend every energy to the accomplishment of the work before us. I appeal to you to give yourselves wholly to the work. Christ gave His time, His soul, His strength, to labor for the benefit and blessing of humanity. Entire days were devoted to labor, and entire nights were spent in prayer, that He might be braced to meet the foe and fortified to help those who came to Him for relief. As we trace a stream of living water by the line of green that it produces, so Christ may be seen in the deeds of mercy that marked His path at every step. Wherever He went, health sprang up, and happiness followed where He passed. So simply did He present the words of life that a child could understand them. The youth caught His spirit of ministry, and sought to pattern after His gracious ways by assisting those who needed help. The blind and deaf rejoiced in His presence. His words to the ignorant and sinful opened to them a fountain of life. He dispensed His blessings abundantly and continuously; they were the garnered riches of eternity, given in Christ, the Father’s gift to man.

Workers for God should as surely feel that they are not their own as if the very stamp and seal of identification were placed upon their persons. They are to be sprinkled with the blood of Christ’s sacrifice, and in the spirit of entire consecration they should resolve that by the grace of Christ they will be a living sacrifice. But how few of us regard the salvation of sinners in the light in which it is viewed by the heavenly universe,–as a plan devised from eternity in the mind of God! How few of us are heart to heart with the Redeemer in this solemn, closing work! There is scarcely a tithe of the compassion that there should be for souls unsaved. There are so many to be warned, and yet how few sympathize with God sufficiently to be anything or nothing if only they can see souls won to Christ!

When Elijah was about to leave Elisha, he said to him, “Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.” [2 Kings 2:9.] Elisha did not ask for worldly honor, for a place among the great men of the earth. That which he craved was a large portion of the spirit given to the one whom God was about to honor with translation. He knew that nothing else could fit him for the work that would be required of him.

Ministers of the gospel, had this question been asked you, what would you have answered? What is the greatest desire of your heart, as you engage in the service of God?

(Ellen White, Gospel Workers, p. 114-116)

Words everyone longs to hear January 16, 2010

“I’m so glad you’re here.”
“It wouldn’t be the same without you.”

We all want to be wanted.

We want people to want to talk to us, to spend time with us. We want to not have to work to get people’s attention. We want love that is freely given and unconditional.

While there is nothing we can do to receive that, let us put in the time and effort to seize the opportunity to speak those words to others. To make them feel wanted and loved.

Your loved ones need to know that they are loved. Don’t allow them to wonder. Don’t let them be unsure. Don’t leave space for any doubt. That your love for them is real, unconditional and forever.

Evangelism January 16, 2010

The word gospel comes from the word euangelion, which literally refers to the news of victory in war that is spread by heralds across the land.

This is my mission statement.

Phil 1:6 (NIrV)
I pray that you will be active in sharing what you believe. Then you will completely understand every good thing we have in Christ.

Gal 6:9-10 (NLT)
So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.

1 Cor 9:24-27 (God’s Word Translation)
Don’t you realize that everyone who runs in a race runs to win, but only one runner gets the prize? Run like them, so that you can win. Everyone who enters an athletic contest goes into strict training. They do it to win a temporary crown, but we do it to win one that will be permanent. So I run-but not without a clear goal ahead of me. So I box-but not as if I were just shadow boxing. Rather, I toughen my body with punches and make it my slave (I train my body and bring it under control – NIrV) so that I will not be disqualified after I have spread the Good News to others.

Joy January 16, 2010

Joy isn’t happiness. It isn’t purely a feeling of enjoyment.

Joy is more a description of a state of being. Almost an “attitude”.

Joy is like climbing a tall mountain. Somewhere along the way, the sun is hot, your feet ache, you pant for breath, your tongue yearns for a drink. You feel pain. You feel tired. It feels like your body is suffering. And it’s all real. But you need not be disheartened. No, instead you are joyful for the fact you are making progress.

Despite our circumstances, even in our trials, we are called to rejoice (James 1:2; 1 Peter 1:6-9). For we know God is always with us, and always working in our lives.

The knowledge that we are God’s brings joy in every circumstance (Jeremiah 15:15-18). Where God dwells is where we find strength and joy (1 Chronicles 16:27), for it is His presence which comforts us (Psalm 21:6). And remember the Lord is near (Philippians 4:4-7).

Read also Psalm 43 and 139. These hymns bring joy in times of trial as we recall to mind the truth about God.

This is why Joy is among the fruit of the spirit (Gal 6).

How to speak to someone struggling with seeing January 9, 2010

Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt

Eph 4:15 Speak truth in love

1 Peter 4:8 Above all… love

Why did this person share this with me?
What does this person need to hear, that God is asking me to speak?

Towards a simpler gospel January 9, 2010

Love - is self-sacrifice for the good of another; Love given to one who is patently unworthy of it could be termed Grace (though by its definition Love demands no prerequisite conditions); Grace offered for violations present and future could be termed Forgiveness

Faith - is a relationship that is the response to and is sustained by Love

Holiness (Right-ness; how things ought to be) – is the result of Faith, sustained by Love – in relationship to God (spiritually), in relationship with yourself (psychologically) and in relationship to others (socially/ethically); the restoration of Holiness (both individually and corporately) could be termed Justice

For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love. (Galatians 5:6)

Ron Osborn on the Young Earth Creationism Debate in the Seventh-day Adventist Church January 1, 2010

http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2009/12/26/controlling_metaphors_are_adventist_scholars_breaking_eighth_commandment

Especially appreciate the comments by:

David Trin

Ron is a clever thoughtful man, and his views are always welcome but here is playing with words, in a way that actually is intellectually dishonest. I think he must know very well that, in its assertion that “God … has revealed in Scripture the authentic account of His creative activity”, the church’s fundamental belief on creation is intending to claim that the Genesis account is to be taken realistically and literally. It’s fine if he wants to change that, but the intent clearly was to to uphold a literal seven-day creation week. Just be honest about that and don’t pretend that the fundamental beliefs are meant to endorse a different view.
I am all for faithful dissent and expect to disagree with Ron for years to come, and remain SDAs. The fundamental beliefs, seeing we maintain they are not a creed, describe rather than prescribe Adventism, and they can be changed. But what Ron (and Chuck and so many readers of this website) would like our church to be isn’t as it is at present, and let’s not pretend that those who defend that position “have deviated most clearly from the language of official Adventist belief and who stand in need of correction by church leaders”, or have somehow become like corporate moguls – a false analogy and a deliberately pejorative one at that.
I’m for respect on both sides of the debate, and Ron does his cause no service by adopting some of the methods of the worst of his opponents.

Weiers Coetser

I believe that David Trim’s perspective merely serves to highlight an issue of what is already inherently being presented in Ron’s article. The current discourse deals with power, and who has the right to make which claims based on an interpretation of the Fundamental beliefs.

David rightly asserts that the dominant position is that we cannot interpret the Bible or our Fundamental beliefs in any other way than literalisticaly. Like Ron, I am not sure that there is any foundational reason or authority to take this stance on the Fundamental beliefs, other than, that the literalists have ascribed it to themselves. And if my observation is correct, it serves to affirm Ron’s original statement about controlling (corporate) metaphors.

I am certainly attracted to Ron’s “supreme court” alternative. I wish it was not as American centric. Even though this debate is a very American debate in its current form, I reckon that the largest groundswell movement against “faithful dissent” will eventually come from other parts of the world where the debate is sure to be framed in terms of power and uniformity.

Is it possible to find a controlling metaphor that draws on a closer, perhaps more literalistic, reading of scripture? I think the tensions between different traditions in scripture could be a starting point. When debate centres around power, the best tactic might to subvert that power. Karl Barth’s argument about the confessionary nature of all theology might be pertinent. The fact that we are always answering to God before we answer to human institutions is something that sits well in the general discourse of those who currently claim the power to themselves, but also for those who present alternative voices.

Ron Osborn

Hi David. I appreciate your taking the time to respond to my posting and am always happy to engage with people in reasoned debate over substantive disagreements. I’m taken aback though, by the frankly invidious way in which you refer to me as a “clever” man (did you really mean to say “sophist”?) who is “playing” with words in a way that is “intellectually dishonest”.

I have no access to the minds of the committee members who wrote the fundamental belief statement but I strongly suspect they spent a great deal of time and care choosing the precise wording they did on a matter as contentious as the meaning of Genesis because they were trying to delicately affirm the traditional Adventist view (which is indeed a literalistic one) while at the same time giving some breathing room for other readings. Chuck has now posted a note in which he confirms from conversations he has had with several people who sat on the 1980 committee that this was exactly what happened as a matter of history. As a historian, I think the burden of proof therefore now falls on you to establish from interviews or meeting minutes that in 1980 the committee in fact chose the word “authentic” with no such goal in mind and was really trying to say “literal” in a rather obscure and dim-witted way.

I am not suggesting, incidentally, that the fundamental belief was trying to “endorse” my own views on creation (a misreading of my article that is careless and misleading on your part) but that it was trying–or in any event simply accomplished–a language that is far more pliant and open to interpretation than some literalists allow and most Adventists probably realize. You need look no further than the Organizing Committee of the International Faith and Science Conference to see that the language of the fundamental belief is perceived as problematic and too open to interpretation by some. And we might well see a revision of the wording as a result. Please pause to think about that. I have no desire to see the wording of the fundamental belief changed. There are highly conservative Adventists who think it should be and that the wording we now have before us was a mistake or didn’t go far enough. Even apart from the kind of freedom encouraged by the preamble which has been completely ignored by those who want to use the beliefs as a way of defining people in and out of the church, who, then, is deviating most clearly from the language of the fundamental belief?

As for people attempting to exercise power in a way that mirrors corporate thinking, I stand by what I wrote. There is nothing “deliberately pejorative” in pointing out that the preferred language and moral reasoning of some Adventists is a language of “business ethics” and that this seems to offer some insight into their vision of how Adventist educational institutions need to be controlled from above. I am very much a literalist when I say that human beings are radically fallen and that one of the basic impulses of fallen creatures is to attempt to exercise power and control over others in all kinds of ways–including by turning church into something very like a hierarchically-structured multinational corporation. Of course, to a large extent we are already there. But when people tell us (repeatedly) that Adventist scholars need to take their lessons in commandment-keeping from Nike or other corporate workers, something significant–and to my mind deeply troubling–is going on.

Nor have I resorted to the same methods as those I disagree with. To do that I would need to show that they are nothing less than commandment breakers who literally stand under “the condemnation of God.”

But perhaps I have misunderstood or misread your own words. I will therefore leave you with the final reply if you desire it. I think my words in this article as well as in numerous other articles that have appeared on this site in the past speak for themselves.

Herb Douglass

Ron: I was delighted to see your mind at work, as I have on many private occasions. Nothing bruises the Adventist soul more than high-handed “recommendations,” or pontifical resolutions from various “elected” committees. Our history has a few nightmares where theological positions long established have been hi-jacked–and not in a “progressive” direction(and not too long ago!).
That being said (which you can also footnote), David is also making the point of a literal understanding of what God had on His mind in writing the fourth commandment. How, in all the marvelous trails of logic, can anyone doubt the literalness of the 4th commandment? Too much plain history as well as the words of Jesus would have to be “spiritualized” or “metaphorized.”
I do fnd it interesting, Ron, that you used the Supreme Court as your “better” metaphor. The Supreme Court is not what the president of the United States swears to uphold–it is the Constitution. The Supreme Court, at times, ties itself into a knot trying to marry 21st “wants” with very clear “do’s and don’ts”–that Constitutio, the marvel of 200+ years, has kept this country from becoming like all others that have preceded us.
Could it be that the TEN serves as this world’s Constitution and when people or nations try to rewrite it into something less literatlistic, all hell breaks lose? IMO, Herb

Ron Osborn

Christmas greetings from the Osborn family to yours Father D.! I’m afraid I can’t join you in saying with confidence that I know beyond question “what God had on His mind” in any number of passages in Scripture. My unwillingness to accept literalism as the only theologically sound way of reading Genesis in fact emerges not from my lack of faith in God or the authority of Scripture but my lack of faith in my own abilities to fully know what all parts of Scripture mean, to penetrate the mind of God, or to enclose Her within human systems of language and reasoning. I am not so apophatic, though, as to say we can’t know anything about God or the creation. I say with confidence that Genesis tells us what is most important for us to know and it is on these points that any theologically sound critique of evolutionary concepts needs to occur: that God is the Creator and creates from nothing; that God is entirely other than the creation; that God’s purposes and methods of creating are good; that human beings are made uniquely in the “image of God”; that God has given us as a memorial of the creation a literal Sabbath day; and that the creation has been distorted and broken as a result of sin. I take all of these statements to be absolute literal and historical truths. So would Karl Barth. So would C.S. Lewis. Does a faithful Adventist really need to affirm or claim certain knowledge of more than this? Those who say we do–and that they have–always seem to me to betray a fatal error known all too well to the Greek tragedians: the error of hubris.

Dave Larson

Chuck Scriven is correct. The language on Creation in the Fundamental Beliefs intentionally left some room for a range of understandings.

This is why there is a concerted effort led by some at Andrews University to tighten up the language. They read the Fundamental Beliefs as Ron Osborne does and differently than David Trim does and it sincerely alarms them.

My view is that we should stick to the language of Scripture itself, saying nothing more and nothing less.

Herb Douglass

Ron: I close my thoughts with Dave Larzon’s signoff! Some subjects merge into the shadows with only human opinions chasing them. So much left to ponder, beginning with what Jesus thought about the subject. That’s where I am rooted. Thanks for your patience with us. Cheers, Herb

Bonnie Dwyer

Thanks to all for a fine discussion. Two points that I would like to add:

1. While the case-based nature of law and the Supreme Court has appeal as an operating metaphor for church, particularly given its provision for dissent, it has drawbacks, too. When choosing metaphors for the church, my preference has always been the family. You don’t kick people out of families because they have different ideas. You figure out how to get along. We need to learn how to get along, to be comfortable with differences in Adventism. A world-wide church with 16 million people needs cultural elbow-room.

2. Having attended the Faith and Science Conference in Denver where there was a very strong push to change the wording of the Fundamental Belief #6 to a more literal statement, I recall Jan Paulsen standing up in front of the group and telling them very distinctly that changing the wording of the Beliefs was not their assignment. The affirmation of creation that was then voted with the more literal wording now gets distributed in place of the fundamental belief and it seems to me to be a push-back by those who were thwarted in Denver from changing the Fundamental Belief. The heated discussion that has taken place since then seems to be good reason to leave the wording as it is. We certainly are not of one accord on what the wording should be.

Ron Osborn

Hi Bonnie. I thought about the analogy/metaphor of “family” before writing but opted against for a few reasons. Family is a warm word that may be a good way of thinking about the kind of openness and acceptance the church needs to extend to all who walk through its doors, whatever messiness and heterodoxy they bring with them. But Christ also refers to the church as a polis on a hill–a direct allusion to the Greek city-states which had a very particular kind of social-political form. The word “church” itself is a political analogy/allusion since ecclesia was not originally a religious term but described a council meeting concerned with matters of community. For certain kinds of questions/problems, I therefore think that institutional/political analogies are the most helpful.

Some people might be surprised to hear me say that I think Adventist colleges and universities in fact do need to maintain institutional and doctrinal integrity, and probably in some cases have not adequately done so, to the harm of some students. I don’t think, however, the belief statements can or should be applied as a kind of Rorschach test of people’s faiths–particularly not by outside pressure groups led by persons of frequently limited theological and scientific training. If an Adventist professor “dissents” in the classroom from any particular Adventist belief, this is something serious that the administrators of schools need to carefully look at. The question, though, should not be something so blunt and wooden as: Are you a literalist on Genesis or not? The question must be: How do you arrive at your dissent, how do you communicate these ideas to students, and how do these ideas integrate with the rest of your faith?

Returning to my Supreme Court analogy, there is a heavy burden on professors, in other words, to explain their dissent not in terms of the laws of any land but as a carefully thought out development of principles to which all of the judges are sworn. As one person mentioned earlier, the U.S. court is in fact sharply divided over questions of constitutional interpretation…but all agree that it is the Constitution that needs to be interpreted. That is significant.

Invictus (William Ernest Henley) December 27, 2009

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

Heather Headley – I Wish December 16, 2009

I’d give you the moon, but you’d never know the warmth of the sunshine,
I’d give you the world, but exactly what would that do.
I’d promise you wings to fly, but how would you ever learn to run,
So I wish you all you need, to be more than I could be.
This is what I wish for you.

I wish you rainy days, so you can know the beauty of a clear blue sky
I wish you falling leaves, so you’ll understand the seasons change.
and if I gave you the mountains, would you learn to climb,
I pray you’ll always see; the forest through the trees.
And this is what I wish for you,
And this is what I wish for you.

If I could I’d say the word and chase your fears away,
And I’d stay right by your side and show the way you should take.
But this your life, this is your story, and when all is done and said, you live with no regrets.

I wish you ocean breeze, and rivers that can bring you everything you dream,
I wish that the air you breathe, is all that you’ll ever need.
And I wish you nights of love, and days of joy and shoulders when you cry,
And just enough hello’s, to get you through goodbyes,
And this is what I wish for you.

I pray one day you’ll have a home, with arms that open wide,
And you have someone who loves you, always by your side,
And if you lose your will to try, I wish you wings to fly.
I wish you wings to fly.

I wish you everything you need.

And this is what I wish for you,
And this is what I wish for you.

Barbara Johnson December 15, 2009

From Where Does A Mother Go To Resign?

“There is no magic place to go when we face insurmountable problems. There is no never-never land. We may have to live with mountains that will not move, but we can face the inevitable and realize that we have greater reserves and resources that we thought possible – [God] brought me through the deep water without letting me drown. He held me up when my mind and emotions were torn apart by tragedy. He gave me the gift of joy which made it possible to share with others the good things God was going to do for them also.”

Where There Is Faith (4Him) December 12, 2009

I believe in faithfulness
I believe in giving of myself for someone else
I believe in peace and love
I believe in honesty and trust but it’s not enough
For all that I believe may never change the way it is
Unless I believe Jesus lives

CHORUS
Where there is faith
There is a voice calling, keep walking
You’re not alone in this world
Where there is faith
There is a peace like a child sleeping
Hope everlasting in He who is able to
Bear every burden, to heal every hurt in my heart
It is a wonderful, powerful place
Where there is faith

There’s a man across the sea
Never heard the sound of freedom ring
Only in his dreams
There’s a lady dressed in black
In a motorcade of cadillacs
Daddy’s not coming back
Our hearts begin to fall
And our stability grows weak
But Jesus meets our needs if only we believe

The Gospel December 11, 2009

The Gospel means…

I can choose to act in a specific way, regardless of how I feel or am psychologically predisposed.

We need to stop believing in determinism. No I can’t change my eye colour nor my facial bone structure, but that doesn’t mean where I turn my head and what I choose to look at is out of my control.

See this debunking of the determinism myth (in relation to sexual orientation) by Neena B. Schwartz:

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb3491/is_1_15/ai_n29401771/?tag=content;col1

Sexual orientation, as with most behaviourally based constructs, are social constructs, not absolutes.

The gospel calls me to use the resources I have for a higher purpose – my body, my mind, my skills, my time, my finances, my influence, my relationships.

Thank God for the power to be truly free.

—

Please don’t misunderstand. This statement is intended as a telling of the gospel, not an opinion on the sexual orientation debate.

But for interest’s sake here is a sensitive comment from the spectrum blog (http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2009/12/03/letter_dwight_nelson):

This is of course one of the most sensitive issues to confront the church and society in recent times (as many on this blog have noted). It seems to me there are really only two questions at here: 1) Is homosexual practice a sin and 2) How are we (the church / individuals) to treat sinners?

Let me address the second question. Christ’s love and grace precedes anything that we as individuals can do. He came to us while we were still sinners, both literally when He came to earth as one of us at a particular time in history, and spiritually, today when he meets us where we are in grace and love. We see Christ’s love of sinners emanating from every page of the gospel. He accepts all who come to him, he turns no one away. And neither should we!

However, this love, grace and acceptance demands a response. Christ says to the adulterer about to be stoned, “Neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more. ” He says to the rich young man, whom he looked on and loved , “One thing you lack, go sell everything you have, and come follow me”

So, God accepts all of us, as we are, but he also wants us to grow in His grace and love. “Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect” This is an impossible task, without the love and grace of God, but “all things are possible with God.”

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. We are all called to sanctity (holiness) to be set apart for God, that we might “present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God”. We must all turn from (repent of) our sins and “sin no more”, we must all be prepared to give up our most prized possessions, our own will, even our own lives for the sake of Christ and His Gospel and follow Him.

This is the gospel we proclaim, this is the Way, the Truth and the Life, this is Jesus Christ, who said: “Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow me”. Are we ready to take Him at His word?

As to the first question, that is not for me to decide, but for the Church, led by the Holy Spirit in its interpretation of the Holy Scriptures. But whether homosexual practice is a sin or not, our attitude to same sex attracted people must always be one of love.
Posted by: Clement (not verified) | 11 December 2009 at 12:14

Tests of Fellowship December 11, 2009

An army must be careful that all its members behave according to its discipline, mission and authority. One that takes the uniform, insignia and name, must live up to the calling.

However, enforced consciption does not loyal warriors who lay down their lives willingly make. Thankfully, not being a member of the army does not exclude one from citizenship of the country. Though all citizens are called to stand for the country.

I believe the Adventist movement is distinct for a variety of reasons. And anyone who seeks to be a part of it must fully understand what they are committing to.

But there will be many who are perhaps not really of like mind with the Adventist message and mission, but still have a heart for God. Who are not “ready”. Those I will meet in the kingdom, but I would not recommend for admission to the Adventist church roll.

Yet the problem remains, who decides? Does anyone have the right?

(Read EGW Biography Volume 1 p456-8)

—

BTW, is the Bible a map or a satellite photo? A map might not be realistic but it does get you where you need to go (much better than a satellite photo).

The La Sierra Evolution Creation Controversy December 11, 2009

Article from Adventist Today:

http://atoday.com/content/pittman-and-asscherick-appear-3abn-address-evolution-teaching-sda-campuses

Comment from statefarmsteve:

I truly do find it amazing that people are willing to draw these types of lines in the sand, and if you don’t take their exact position, from God’s methodology and timeline of creation, down to the punishment for those that don’t agree, you’re subject to shunning, burning at the stake, or as Truthwave mentioned, beheading.

Even young Mr Burdette has been subject to scorn and ridicule for refusing to jump on the “hang ‘em high, hang ‘em low” bandwagon.

Perhaps the hardliners can spend some of their time arguing whether or not God actually “spoke” the earth into existence. Did he actually inhale, and while exhaling, literally form words via vibration of vocal cords and manipulation of his tounge, lips, and teeth? Did he speak Babylonian or Hebrew or Aramaic or King James English?

The Bible is a fantastic, centuries-old road map to salvation. I have a road map that I got about 10 years ago, and wouldn’t you know it – it’s already out of date. There are some roads and expressways that don’t show up, and others that are on the map that have been shut down. I think there is even a spot where I noticed an error or two. However, it is important to note that in order to get to California, I still pretty much face Canada, turn left 90 degrees, and go. That hasn’t changed. But I’m not going to try to kill my travelling buddy if he insists Route 66 is the way to go, and I want to take I-10. If we kill each other, neither one is going to get to our destination.

Online File Storage Utilities & Disposable Email December 11, 2009

Jan 2012 (update):
Storage – SugarSync (I just like it better than Dropbox) + Tonido
Sync – FreeFileSync as a really good small free app
Upload for strangers to download – Multiupload
Put.io – Downloads torrents for you

—
:: Storage ::
Jungledisk + Amazon S3
Dropbox

Downloads torrents for you: Put.io (better than Fetch.io)

:: Send Large Files ::
Yousendit.com
Multiupload.com

:: Emails ::
Disposable email: 10minutemail.com, guerrillamail.com (1hr)
No login email (i.e. unlimited disposable): pourri.fr, mailinator.com, spam.la
Disposable email forwarder/middleman: spamgourmet.com, http://www.jetable.org/en/index

[Older: http://ntri.wordpress.com/2005/07/14/emergency-email/]
Dodgeit.com no longer exists
Sneakemail.com no longer free

Guitar Set-up December 8, 2009

best book Guitar Player: Repair Guide (Dan Erlewine); Fret Work Step By Step (Dan Erlewine)
See also:

http://www.eltjohaselhoff.com/setting_up_your_guitar.htm

http://www.frets.com/FRETSPages/OwnerManual/manssguitar.html

Choose the appropriate strings you want to use with the guitar and tune to pitch, stretch out and mash down

Relief – capo down at the 1st fret and the fret where the neck deepens to join the body (usually 12th – sometimes 10-11th); adjust the truss rod so that the relief is about 1/2 the gauge of the strings (e.g. 6-7 thousanths of an inch; lower for jazz, higher for bluegrass) at the 5-6th fret (midway point); there should be no string-buzz in the middle of the neck; use a feeler gauge; (takes a few days for neck to seat)

Dress frets so that there are no high frets (check there are no dead frets); crown the frets properly

Nut – capo down on 3rd fret; should not be touching, but (almost) no visible gap above the 1st fret; file the slots as necessary; lubricate with graphite

Saddle – as low as possible without string buzz on heavy playing(keep your original saddle as a backup); generally lower twice as much at the saddle for the intended action at the 12th fret; try slotted bridge to increase forward tension on the saddle; try separating the saddle into 6 segments for controlling action of each string individually

Intonation – check the 12th fret harmonics and fretted notes; adjust the break-point of the saddle to compensate

Deeper problems need a refret and/or planing of the fingerboard

The Manhattan Declaration December 8, 2009

Comment by Michael D. Peabody:

http://ntri.wordpress.com/2009/12/08/the-manhattan-declaration/

We have no reason to doubt that those who drafted and are signing the Declaration are sincere and trying to do what they believe is best for America. There are many good reasons why it may seem a good idea, but we should raise a voice of caution regarding the unintended consequences of this approach. Christians tempted to set aside theological differences, which include differences in how grace and salvation are viewed so significant that they led to the battles of the Reformation and Inquisition, and unite on points held in common in order to change society should recall the unholy results of such unions. From a Christian perspective, government and even church edicts cannot change hearts, only God can.

As we are admonished in 2 Timothy 3:5, “They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” (New Living Translation)

Comment by Donna Haerich:

I’ve watched the storm clouds of intolerance gather and have believed for many years that it will be “cultural” rather than “doctrinal” issues that will united the world in opposition to “God’s people.”

The Case for God November 28, 2009

“The Buddha, for example, had little time for theological speculation. One of his monks was a philosopher manqué and, instead of getting on with his yoga, constantly pestered the Buddha about metaphysical questions: Was there a god? Had the world been created in time or had it always existed? The Buddha told him that he was like a man who had been shot with a poisoned arrow and refused medical treatment until he had discovered the name of his assailant and what village he came from. He would die before he got this perfectly useless information. What difference would it make to discover that a god had created the world? Pain, hatred, grief, and sorrow would still exist. These issues were fascinating, but the Buddha refused to discuss them because they were irrelevant.” (Karen Armstrong. The Case for God. p. 23)

Video Conversion and Editing November 26, 2009

Free Video Converter http://www.freemake.com/free_video_converter/
Avidemux
IpodME http://ipodme.en.softonic.com/
MakeMKV http://makemkv.com/
Handbrake http://handbrake.fr/
Simple File Joiner http://www.peretek.com/sfj.php

Without His Cross (Joseph M Martin) November 26, 2009

Without His tears, there is no comfort
Without His death, there is no life
Without His blood, there is no pardon
Without His cross, there is no crown

Without His shame, there is no glory
Without His grief, there is no joy
Without His stripes, there is no healing
Without His cross, there is no crown

Lamb of God, You bring salvation
And with Your grace, our hearts are sealed
Lord, with Your tears of love, You bathed our sorrows
In Your eyes we stand revealed

Without His tears, there is no comfort
Without His death, there is no life
Without His blood, there is no pardon
Without His cross, there is no crown

When I Cry (Gaither Vocal Band) November 17, 2009

Makin’ a list of all of the good things you’ve done for me.
Lord, I’ve never been one to complain.
But, right now I’m lost, and I can’t find my way.
My world’s come apart, and it’s breakin’ my heart.
But it helps to know; Your heart is breaking too.

When I cry, You cry. When I hurt, You hurt.
When I’ve lost someone, it takes a piece of You too.
And when I fall on my face, You fill me with grace.
‘Cause nothing breaks Your heart, or tears You apart
Like when I cry.

Alone in the dark, face in my hands cryin’ out to You.
Lord, there’s never been a time in my life,
There’s so much at stake, there’s so much to lose.
But I trust it to You. You’ll bring me through.
And it helps me to know that I’m not alone.

When I cry, You cry. When I hurt, You hurt.
When I’ve lost someone, it takes a piece of You too.
And when I fall on my face, You fill me with grace.
‘Cause nothing breaks Your heart, or tears You apart
Like when I cry.

You’re the one who calmed the raging sea.
You’re the one who made the blind to see.
You looked through all of heaven and eternity,
And through it all you saw me.

When I cry, You cry. When I hurt, You hurt.
When I’ve lost someone, it takes a piece of You too.
And when I fall on my face, You fill me with grace.
Nothing breaks Your heart, or tears You apart
Like when I cry.

Alden Thompson on the Maine Ellen White Conference November 12, 2009

http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2009/11/10/reflections_maine_event

Also Jon Paulien’s reactions

http://revelation-armageddon.com/2009/10/29/an-historic-event.aspx

http://revelation-armageddon.com/2009/11/01/an-historic-event-ii.aspx

http://revelation-armageddon.com/2009/11/06/an-historic-event-iii.aspx

http://revelation-armageddon.com/2009/11/11/an-historic-event-iv.aspx

EJ Waggoner on Faith November 12, 2009

The other point is that people cannot be forced to keep the Sabbath, inasmuch as it is a sign of faith, and no man can be forced to believe. Faith comes spontaneously as the result of hearing God’s Word. No man can even force himself to believe, much less can he compel somebody else. By force a man’s fears may be so wrought upon that he may say he believes, and he may act as though he believed. That is to say, a man who fears man rather than God may be forced to
lie. But “no lie is of the truth.” Therefore since the Sabbath is the sign of perfect faith, it is the sign of perfect liberty — “the glorious liberty of the children of God” — the liberty which the Spirit gives; for the
Sabbath, as a part of God’s law, is spiritual. And so, finally, let no one deceive himself with the thought that an outward observance of even God’s appointed rest-day — the seventh day — without faith and trust in God’s word alone, is the keeping of God’s Sabbath. “For whatsoever is
not of faith is sin.”

— Lessons on Faith

Ellen White growing from condemnation to conciliation November 12, 2009

“The Lord wants His people to follow other methods than that of condemning wrong, even though the condemnation be just. He wants us to do something more than to hurl at our adversaries charges that only drive them further from the truth.” – 6T 121 (1901)

“In laboring in a new field, do not think it your duty to say at once to the people, We are Seventh-day Adventists; we believe that the seventh day is the Sabbath; we believe in the non-immortality of the soul. This would often erect a formidable barrier between you and those you wish to reach. Speak to them, as you have opportunity, upon points of doctrine on which you can agree. Dwell on the necessity of practical godliness. Give them evidence that you are a Christian, desiring peace, and that you love their souls. Let them see that you are conscientious. Thus you will gain their confidence; and there will be time enough for doctrines. Let the heart be won, the soil prepared, and then sow the seed, presenting in love the truth as it is in Jesus. (“Letter to a Minister and His Wife Bound for Africa” [June 25, 1887 = Letter 12, to Elder Boyd] in Testimonies to Southern Africa, pp. 14-20).

“If a brother differs with you on some points of truth, do not stoop to ridicule, do not place him in a false light or misconstrue his words, making sport of them; do not misinterpret his words and wrest them of their true meaning. This is not conscientious argument. Do not present him before others as a heretic, when you have not with him investigated his positions, taking the Scriptures text-by-text in the Spirit of Christ to show him what is truth. You do not yourself really know the evidence he has for his faith, and you cannot clearly define your own position. Take your Bible, and in a kindly spirit weigh every argument that he presents, and show him by the Scripture if he is in error. When you do this without unkind feelings, you will do only that which is your duty and the duty of every minister of Christ.” (EGW to G. I. Butler, Letter 21, 1888 [October 14])

Tom Zwemer describes the history of the China Group at Loma Linda Hill Church November 10, 2009

Those who don’t know history are bound to repeat it. During the 1950-1980′s there as a group of retired missionaries living in the immediate Loma Linda Area. They almost all attended the LL Hill Church. They were known kindly as the “China Group”. They had labored long and hard in the mission field. Many had been mal-treated by the Japanese.

Now in their twilight years, they longed for Jesus to return.
They had a burden for the young people and professional people in Loma Linda, who to the China Group, were not congruent with the Spirit of Prophecy.

They would pick a target group to “work” with that they thought were sincere and “savable”. One of their tactics was to pin little selections from the Spirit of Prophecy on the front screen door. A few from my list came from those pinning. Like belt or susppenders.

Then Brimsmead came along. The brethren in Washington put two senior scholars on the issue. Dr. Des Ford, a teacher of the Brinsmeads,and Dr. Edward Heppenstall who was also British and a tested kindly scholar. Of course, Des Ford blew up in their face. Dr. Edward Heppenstall used a different tactic. He carried on a conversation with the central Brinsmead group and finally put his thoughts to a book entitled the Man Who is God. In that book, he took the position that man was cursed with “Original Sin”.

That knocked a hole in the entire “China Group” the belt/susppender step by step approach to perfection. By this time, they had completely co-oped the Head Pastor.

He wrote a monograph entitled: “In Sorrow and not in Anger” He sent copies to all the leading brethren including all the members of the Board of Trustees of Loma Linda University. I, of course, received a copy. Their primary target was Dr. Edward Heppenstall, the last of appointed the Brinsmead fighters. I wrote Dr. Heppenstall and said, in effect, that the manuscript: “In Sorrow and not in Anger” was the best evidence I had ever read in support of original sin. We had been good friends from Junior Camp days. Now we were close brothers of the Gospel, plus nothing.

The pastor of the Hill Church was given a reprimand and soon after was removed from his position at the Hill Church. He persisted and his ministrial credentials were removed. It was a very sad and traumatic period. Chuck was a young editor at the time and certainly remembers those days. The current dust up on creationism and homosexuality, I am sure made him recall those difficult days and prompted his sermon.

The answer to the question: “What must I do to be saved?” is the answer of Paul. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved and thy house!” Now the question how shall a “saved person” live his/her life. Well like their Master. Matt. 28 gives the sum. And that is the Gospel truth. Tom

Posted by: Tom Zwemer | 10 November 2009 at 7:40

A fantastic comment by Helen Dunn November 6, 2009

http://www.spectrummagazine.org/blog/2009/10/31/sabbath_sermon_dwight_nelson_homosexuality

Newman,

“I AM RIGHT! I have THE truth!” So Adventist. So sad. The opinions you express remind me of when I was a young woman and my children were all pre-teen. In those days it wasn’t unheard of for a “good” Adventist to tell their Catholic neighbors that they had the mark of the beast and wouldn’t be saved. Of course, they thought they loved those neighbors and were only trying to warn them. But, many Adventists have since learned that this was counterproductive and not Christlike. Now we seem to have a new “mark of the beast” issue to learn about. Homosexuality.

I believe you are wrong, Newman, to even suggest that your way is the only way, that if people don’t believe the Bible the way you do they are profligate sinners, and infer at the least that they will not be saved. I believe you are very enthusiastic and committed to your view and the solutions you have found to taking the Bible seriously.

Jesus Christ never approached people the way I think you do! I take the Bible very seriously. I’m sure others like Carrol Grady, David Larson, Jared Wright, etc. take the Bible very seriously! And I think it is very wrong for you to sit in judgment of whether those who read the Bible differently than you do are not taking it seriously.

My grandmother was expelled from nursing school at Paradise Valley Sanitarium for cutting her hair. That was “against the Bible.” Do you believe it is wrong for a woman to cut her hair? I’ve always cut my hair. Am I ignoring the Bible? The people in charge at Paradise Valley would have said so. But most Adventists today see the Biblical injunction about a woman’s hair being short differently than Adventists did 100 years ago.

When I was a young mother no self-respecting woman who truly considered herself an Adventist (“good Adventist”) wore a wedding ring. We believed what EGW said about it being wrong to wear a circle of gold on your finger. We were proud to be “different” and believed that if we lived virtuously it would be obvious to others that we were married even though the normal societal sign of saying “I’m married, I’m not available” was to wear a wedding ring.

Today good Adventist pastors and their wives wear wedding rings. People in rather prominent positions within the NAD and GC wear wedding rings.

So, Newman. Who was taking the Bible more seriously. Those who refused to wear a wedding ring (and some still sincerely do that) or those who now considered themselves to take the Bible seriously but do wear a wedding ring.

Views change. Ellen White told us to be prepared to have new understandings of the Word of God. It is fine to say, “With all due respect, I disagree with you.” But I believe it is wrong to suggest to someone else that they don’t take the Bible as seriously as I do because we understand it in different ways.

Hansen, I bother responding to you because I cannot quietly abide having people like my gay grandson and others I know even possibly discouraged from knowing that the Lord loves them and wants them. I take the Bible very seriously, and I believe with all my heart that this is the message from Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospels.

Be very careful, please, lest you be the one who discourages a child of God and leads them to believe the lie that God no longer accepts them – regardless of the reason. Please be careful lest you become a “millstone” weighing down another child of God.

Believe the Bible as you do. Stand by it. But please stop short of claiming that anyone who believes otherwise is a lesser Christian. It is so wrong and I believe that this violates a clear Biblical injunction: JUDGE NOT! That command does not say, “Judge not those who you think agree with you and see the Bible as you do.” No! It says, “Judge not!” And I think that means, Newman, don’t judge anyone.

Newman, you are free to believe as you do and, as I’ve said, I’ll respect that. But I beg you not to judge those who believe differently. I think you’re wrong to even suggest that they don’t take the Bible seriously.

Sign me a concerned Adventist grandmother!
Posted by: Helen Dunn (not verified) | 03 November 2009 at 6:06

PDF Tools November 4, 2009

Split/Join: http://jpdftweak.sourceforge.net/
Printer Driver: http://www.dopdf.com/

http://www.angusj.com/pdftkb/

http://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-pdf-writer.htm

http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/best-free-pdf-tools.htm

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2008/01/07/recover-pdf-password-with-pdfcrack-free-recovery-tool/

http://www.sanface.com/pdfcrypt.html

To view a PDF:
Foxit PDF viewer http://www.foxitsoftware.com/pdf/rd_intro.php
or
Sumatra: http://blog.kowalczyk.info/software/sumatrapdf/

To convert a file online:
http://convert.neevia.com/ (1MB max)
http://www.expresspdf.com/ (20MB max, far fewer document formats supported)
Convert back:

http://pdfdl.oceighty.net/pdf2html.php?url=

Free PDF printer driver:
CutePDF http://www.cutepdf.com/products/cutepdf/writer.asp
(http://www.primopdf.com/ is similar to cute, but I prefer cute)
(http://www.pdf995.com/ is a free suite, but bulky and unneccesary)

Best pay PDF printer driver:
PDF Factory http://www.pdffactory.com/ (which I believe uses industry-leading compression algorithms)

GPL Open-source PDF utility:
PDFCreator http://sector7g.wurzel6.de/pdfcreator/index_en.htm
(GhostScript http://www.cs.wisc.edu/~ghost/)

Richard Hays on Romans October 30, 2009

He is trending in the direction of “New Perspectives on Paul”, in saying that the question Paul is answering in Romans is not how can I be saved, but can God be trusted? See Brad Cole’s comment.

http://spectrummagazine.org/blog/2009/10/24/richard_hays_targets_misreading_scripture_loma_linda_university

Here’s a quote from the article by Dave Larson:

Hays thinks it best to think of the Bible as the grand story of God’s endeavors to redeem the word, a story in which we ourselves continue to live today. [This should come as no surprise to people who read books with titles such as “The Story of Redemption,” “The Drama of the Ages” and “The Great Controversy!]

He offered five good ways to read the Bible:

1. As a story that it is primarily about God;
2. As a coherent narrative from Genesis to Revelation, requiring each portion of it to be read in light of the whole;
3. With awareness that specific texts can have multiple meanings;
4. In collaboration with others in contemporary Christian communities; and
5. A willingness to be surprised, challenged, and transformed.

Hays emphasized the importance of reading the Bible with others who also approach it with a willingness to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. (Romans 12: 1 – 3) No individual can be a symphony all alone, he observed. Neither can any individual successfully read the Bible.

On Friday Hays took up three case studies in Biblical interpretation. The first was a discussion of “The Bible and the Story of God’s Faithfulness,” especially as articulated in Paul’s letter to the early Christians at Rome. He made a special call for greater emphasis upon the faithfulness of Jesus to us and less on our faith in Jesus. Among other things, this switch (from an objective to a subjective genitive in Koine’ Greek) makes the ethical portions of Romans the summit of Paul’s message rather than the slope on its other side.

Alden Thompson to Dale Ratzlaff October 30, 2009

23 April 2001

Dear Dale:

I appreciated the opportunity to talk with you by phone. I suspect we could have lengthened the conversation considerably. My own “Arminian-Wesleyan” experience would differ from yours in several ways, I suspect. But I have become increasingly concerned that the Adventist emphasis on human freedom and responsibility makes it more difficult for us to give proper recognition to divine sovereignty and grace. That’s part of the reason why your writings and the video are of such high interest to me.

As I see it, however, the Evangelical/Reformed tradition finds it more difficult to make peace with the critical issues which our increasingly secular age presses upon us. One of my doctoral mentors, for example, became an Evangelical Christian in his teen years, but lost his faith when continuing studies undermined his “inerrancy” view of Scripture.

What struck me about the video was that virtually every criticism leveled against Ellen White and Adventism can be paralleled with similar critical attacks against Scripture and Christianity: there is at least as much to question in Scripture from a “scientific” point of view as there is in the work of Mrs. White. Scripture certainly contains (conditional) predictions which did not come to pass; and the “great disappointment” with its aftermath shows striking parallels with that earlier “great disappointment” which nearly crushed Jesus’ disciples.

When, at my request, my earlier-mentioned believer-turned-atheist mentor read and critiqued the manuscript of my book, Who’s Afraid of the Old Testament God? two of his comments struck me with particular force:

1. “As you would expect, the overall argument of the book does not convince me, though at a certain stage of my intellectual and spiritual development I can see that it would have considerably alleviated my doubts.”

2. “If I ever return to faith it will be as a Jew and not as a Christian.”

I could also add to the list of quotes his personal comment to me in conversation: “If I had maintained my devotional life, I never would have lost my faith.”

Speaking specifically to your interest in the “two covenants,” I would want to point out that the “new” covenant promise appears first in Jeremiah, a promise to the people of Jeremiah’s day. In other words, it was an “Old Testament” experience as well as a “New Testament” one. In that same connection, when Jesus says in Matthew 5 that he came to “fulfill” the law, the context indicates that he did not set the law aside, but made it even more rigorous, more demanding.

Thus I would take quite a different approach than the one found in your chapter 14 in Sabbath in Crisis (pp. 219-234, 2nd edition).8 At root, however, I surmise three key issues to be paramount in the experience of those who leave Adventism for an evangelical community:

1. Assurance. Paul (most forcefully in Romans and Galatians) finds assurance through a courtroom emphasis with Jesus as the all-sufficient sacrifice and advocate on our behalf. That perspective comes clearest in the Reformed and Evangelical communities. But the other New Testament road to assurance, perhaps more typical of Wesleyan communities, uses a family emphasis or model.

It is nurtured by the Gospel and Epistles of John and is best illustrated by Jesus’ story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. In that parable one finds grace and acceptance, to be sure; but instead of an accent on the price paid at the divine initiative, the parable highlights the human decision to return home to a loving and accepting Father. Some in Adventism have often gotten the worst of both worlds, suggesting a demanding Judge who waits to see if the prodigal son can do it right before granting him entrance to the welcome-home party. Salvation by works is always a distortion of the truth. The biblical view of obedience presents it as a grateful human response to divine grace.

2. Relations with Other Christians. When Adventism leaves a conscientious believer haunted with a sense of impossible demands, the discovery of gracious and buoyant evangelical Christians who do have assurance of acceptance through Christ, raises significant questions about the “truth” of Adventism. “Remnant,” “Babylon,” and “beast” can all become troublesome terms in this context. Here I find biblical models helpful.

A strident (sectarian?) separation seems to have been unavoidable at crucial points in the experience of God’s people: Israel and the Egyptians; Israel and the Canaanites; Judaism in the days of Ezra-Nehemiah; Christians and Jews in the days of Stephen. No wonder the Jews stoned Stephen – just read his blunt speech in Acts 7!

As for Adventism, events and circumstances in the 19th century made the scenario outlined in the book Great Controversy quite believable. But the book The Desire of Ages points to a quite different approach to people, one which seeks first to affirm people for their goodness rather than attack them for their evil. In this respect, the remarkable chapter 70 in The Desire of Ages (pp. 637-641) is crucial.

In interpreting the parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25, Ellen White notes that the judgment of the nations turns on “one point”: “what they have done or have neglected to do for Him in the person of the poor and the suffering” (p. 637). She goes on to claim for God’s kingdom those among the heathen “who have cherished His principles,” “who have cherished the spirit of kindness” (p. 638). Evangelicals often stumble at that point, wanting to include only those who have explicitly accepted Jesus Christ. Those heathen who are “good” in God’s sight, the “good” Moslem, the “good” atheist are all excluded – in spite of what Romans 2:12-16 seems to make quite clear.

Similarly marking a positive approach to others is the counsel given in Gospel Workers on how to work for others: “Speak to them, as you have opportunity, upon points of doctrine on which you can agree. Dwell on the necessity of practical godliness. Give them evidence that you are a Christian, desiring peace and that you love their souls. Let them see that you are conscientious. Thus you will gain their confidence; and there will be time enough for doctrines. Let the heart be won, the soil prepared, and then sow the seed, presenting in love the truth as it is in Jesus” (GW 119-20). “Come out of her my people” (Rev. 18:4) represents quite a different perspective. Clearly both are biblical, but circumstances and experience determine which emphasis receives priority. I focus on the growth and development of Ellen White’s experience and theology as part of the solution to these tensions.

3. Sabbath: Gift or Test? Traditionally, Adventists have linked Sabbath with eschatology, emphasizing Sabbath as a test, and hardly noting it as a gift. Thus if a monolithic view of Adventist eschatology collapses for whatever reason, then the Sabbath goes with it.

Quite frankly, I don’t know how one can experience a joyous Sabbath gift if one thinks of it first of all as a test – even though I would affirm that the Sabbath is a test in a more subtle way. If my wife were to insist that a timely arrival in the evening is a “test” of our love, it would be difficult for me to return home with joy. The same applies to the Sabbath.

Ironically, just when former Adventists are jettisoning the Sabbath, an increasing number of thoughtful Christians are casting longing eyes at the idea of Sabbath and writing some very good things about Sabbath (e.g., Marva Dawn, Eugene Peterson), even if their view of Sabbath does not include an emphasis on a specific day of the week.

With reference to all of the above, the extent to which I am willing to modify traditional Adventism is solidly rooted in Scripture, in my study of Ellen White, and in my knowledge of Adventist history. “Change,” “growth,” and “development” are all difficult words, especially for those drawn to the Evangelical and Reformed tradition (as over against those in the Arminian and Wesleyan traditions).

Particular end-time scenarios are very fragile in Scripture. Dispensational evangelicals (the true inheritors of the Adventist love for a precise series of end-time events), solve the problem by projecting all unfulfilled aspects of Old Testament prophecy into the future, linked with the rapture, rebuilding of the temple, and an earthly millennium. To make it work, dispensationalism even brings back animal sacrifice during the 1,000 years. I believe there is a better way of being faithful to Scripture and to our Lord.

This is far more than you bargained for, Dale. By God’s grace, good may come of it. May the Lord bless and guide you in your work.

Sincerely, Alden Thompson, School of Theology, Walla Walla College, College Place Washington 99324

Alden Thompson – Church at Corinth October 28, 2009

What is sin?
For Peter – wrong actions and behaviour
For Paul – twisted state of nature and appetite
For Apollos – rebellious choice and motivation

What does God say?
To Peter – you can do it
To Paul – My grace is sufficient
To Apollos – stay with me, we’ll go there together

What is righteousness? (song analogy)
For Peter – the lyrics
For Paul – the music
For Apollos – the soul

Characteristics of God
To Peter – justice and righteousness
To Paul – forgiveness and grace
To Apollos – love and faith

Our Response
To Peter – repentance and obedience (self-ward action)
To Paul – reliance and assurance (God-ward action)
To Apollos – reconciled relationship which draws the rest of God’s family into relationship (other-ward action)

Which mountain?
Peter – Sinai
Paul – Golgotha
Apollos – Zion

Jesus
Peter – the Prophet, the Truth
Paul – the Lamb, the Sacrifice
Apollos – the Priest, the Sanctuary

God
Peter – your Sovereign
Paul – your Saviour
Apollos – your Friend

Me
Peter – God’s servant
Paul – God’s son
Apollos – God’s friend

Transaction
Peter – a price paid upward (subjective/microscopic/anthropocentric)
Paul – a gift given downward (objective/teloscopic/theocentric)
Apollos – a message needed by all (Great Controversy/panoramic/universe-wide)

Courtroom
Peter – God as judge passes righteous judgment
Paul – God as advocate supports me
Apollos – God finds the best outcome for all in the situation

Sin revisited…
Peter – God makes the sinner acutely aware of it because he hates the sin
Paul – God forgives the sinner because it is what the sinner needs to move away from sin
Apollos – God fixes the sinner because God loves the sinner

Peter – optimistic, concrete, practical (assume God’s love, hence do not need it emphasised)
Paul – pessimistic, emotional, introspective (assumes our sin, hence do not need it emphasised)
Apollos – inquisitive, philosophical, reflective (assumes the theory, hence builds on the relationship)

What a materialistic view (and science) cannot explain October 25, 2009

Life – the difference between a rock and a rockmelon
Consciousness (Objective Perception) – the difference between a rockmelon and a rockfish
Subjective Perception – feelings, emotions
Self-awareness – how am I the “same” person I was when I was younger? Some animals are self-aware (bottlenose dolphins, apes, elephants). Babies develop this in the 2nd year of life.
Abstraction – reason/imagination/concepts/ideas/language/symbolism/”thought” (one of the unique features of humans)
Free will – volition/belief/values/morality/cognitive dissonance/rationalisation

The bottom line question is: when does structure (order – e.g. vortex, snowflake) become information?

William Lane Craig lists 5 things which materialism cannot explain.

God Exists October 22, 2009

… in the 5% you don’t know (Mark Finley)

It sounds illogical, but it could be that you don’t understand it (Ray Comfort’s closing statement at approx 40:00)

http://www.itiswritten.com/tvprogram/episode/2009/01/1021

Joel Osteen on diet October 18, 2009

EM:RAP October 15, 2009

Emergency Medicine – Reviews and Perspectives

http://uscessentials.com/online/

emrap.org
www.emrapcc.com [Critical Care]

Presentation Software of the Future October 11, 2009

prezi.com
ahead.com

File Storage October 9, 2009

notebooks HDD – OS and programs only
eSATA hotswappable array – work here
NAS – backup here
USB flash – Free File Sync – carry around here

Phoenix Audio Duet Executive
Logitech Wireless Headset

Gyration Mouse
Trackball

Best Card Magic & Manipulation & Grand Illusion September 30, 2009

CARD MAGIC
Harry Lorayne’s Best Ever Collection
Green Magic by Lennart Green
Ricky Jay
Michael Vincent
Darwin Ortiz

TEACHING
Brad Christian – Ellusionist
Jason England – Theory11
Paul Wilson – Royal Road to Card Magic
Youtube – http://www.youtube.com/user/TricksterAP

http://www.youtube.com/user/DecksAndContests

MENTALISM
Rich Ferguson

MANIPULATION
Lance Burton
Peter Marvey
Jeff McBride

GRAND ILLUSION
The Pendragons – Metamorphosis http://magic.about.com/od/themagicbusiness/fr/020109pendragon.htm
David Copperfield – Saw
Hans Klok – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhZevSgX6-k

SHOPPING
ellusionist.com
theory11.com

BICYCLE PLAYING CARDS DECKS IN AUSTRALIA

http://stores.ebay.com.au/ide-Home/_i.html?_fsub=1344386010

http://www.taylorsmagicshop.com/prod233.htm

Seven Laws of Noah September 21, 2009

Rabbinic tradition (circa 300 BC) held that Noah kept 7 laws, of which the Sabbath was not one.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Laws_of_Noah

Principles of CARE groups September 17, 2009

1. Teach relationally, keep it simple and brief
2. Bait doctrine (share just 3 texts for people to look up at home, maybe they’ll turn into 1-on-1 deeper studies)
3. Share honestly, not superficially, ask for help and prayer
4. Be authentic, let down your guard, take off your mask, don’t pretend to be a superman
5. CARE, become a home and be a family, see each other during the week
6. Pray for more people to reach, pray for your friends and family who don’t know God, pray that God enlarges your influence, pray that God uses you to make an impact
7. Have a agreed curriculum (the integrity of teaching is the lifeblood of the church)
8. CARE group leaders should meet together regularly to discuss strategy and pray for each other and for those they care for

Ellen White — RH, November 23, 1905 par. 9 September 17, 2009

God calls for light bearers, who will fill the world with the light and peace and joy that come from Christ. He calls for humble men, men who cherish a sense of their weakness, and who remember what the service of God demands of them–the propriety of speech and action which shows the power of the grace of Christ. Such ones will reveal in their lives the virtues of Christ’s character.

There needs to be a deeper work of grace in the hearts of God’s people. Less of self, and more of Christ, must be seen. Tests, close and sharp, are coming to all. The religion of the Bible must be interwoven with all that we do and say. Every business transaction must be fragrant with the presence of God.

Sjogren, Ping and Pollock – Irresistable Evangelism, p55 September 17, 2009

Monologue vs Dialogue
Compelling Proof vs Compelling Story
Presentations vs Conversations
Words vs Images
Our Language vsTheir Language
Us/Them vs Fellow Travellers
Fishing from the bank vs Swimming with the fish
Believe to belong vs Belong before believing
Event driven vs Context driven
Come and see vs Go and be
Scripted vs Spontaneous
Winning vs Nudging
Gospel presentations vs Gospel experiences

SDA Defence September 16, 2009

SDA for me — by Martin Weber in response to Dale Ratzlaff

Mark Driscoll explains Calvinism and Arminianism September 16, 2009

Legalism (and Paul Washer discusses it) September 16, 2009

It is one thing to dot the i’s and cross the t’s. It is quite another matter to write the lyric.

It is not about what you do. It is about what you are. And God can make you what you were always supposed to be (which is righteousness).

Don’t confuse the gospel for one that needs God to change his mind about you September 14, 2009

Desire of Ages p. 35-36

Through heathenism, Satan had for ages turned men away from God; but he won his great triumph in perverting the faith of Israel. By contemplating and worshiping their own conceptions, the heathen had lost a knowledge of God, and had become more and more corrupt. So it was with Israel. The principle that man can save himself by his own works lay at the foundation of every heathen religion; it had now become the principle of the Jewish religion. Satan had implanted this principle. Wherever it is held, men have no barrier against sin.

God’s view on His people (Jer 2) September 14, 2009

13 “My people have committed two sins:
They have forsaken me,
the spring of living water,
and have dug their own cisterns,
broken cisterns that cannot hold water.

17 Have you not brought this on yourselves
by forsaking the LORD your God
when he led you in the way?

19 Your wickedness will punish you;
your backsliding will rebuke you.
Consider then and realize
how evil and bitter it is for you
when you forsake the LORD your God
and have no awe of me,”
declares the Lord, the LORD Almighty.

Can’t you see you’re hurting yourselves? Stop digging your own cisterns, which can’t hold water because they are broken, come back to the Lord.

God never intended for His commandments to be confused as the basis of salvation. Neither did He intend that the natural consequences of failure to keep their end of the covenant agreement be misconceived as God punishing them for their disobedience. (Instead: You’ve brought this on yourselves. I was trying to lead you in the right way.)

Here’s God’s solution. Isa 42:6
“I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles,”
Jesus, the Messiah, becomes the New Covenant!

Phil 2:12-13
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.”
Work out your own salvation, for it is God working in you!

Adventist Christology (Resources) September 13, 2009

Jean Zurcher – Touched With Our Feelings http://books.google.com.au/books?id=s4K8Xa06O8sC

Eric Claude Webster – Crosscurrents in Adventist Christology http://www.sdanet.org/atissue/books/webster/index.htm

Dennis Priebe – Face to Face with the Real Gospel http://www.scribd.com/doc/15359863/Face-to-Face-With-the-Real-Gospel

On The Trinity – Journal of the Adventist Theological Society September 13, 2009

http://www.atsjats.org/publication.php?volume=17&number=1

God’s non-condemning empowering love. September 6, 2009

John 8

When Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, “I don’t condemn you, go and sin no more.” He was transforming her completely.

Where before she saw herself as a hopeless sinner with no hope and no future except for condemnation. Jesus informed her it was all a lie. Her value was priceless. She was worth everything to Him, because she was God’s own daughter. Jesus restored her identity as a child of God.

And only when your identity is restored, can you live up to it.

Only when you believe you were made for something more, can you become what you were destined to be.

Glass, Marriage and Salvation September 4, 2009

Love this perspective by Pastor Greg on Marriage… and Salvation

Science and Faith September 3, 2009

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/column/2009/08/28/science_and_my_faith

Those who see the advances of science as the folly of “so-called science” think that true science of the physical universe is found in Genesis 1-3. To claim scientific value for the biblical accounts, however, is anachronistic, illusory and, at times, even fanatical. It is well known that science as knowledge acquired through specific methods that can be verified by others came to be part of our culture rather recently. It is also well known that writing history with the intention of describing with as much precision as possible what actually happened, making available to readers both the sources used and the reasons why one source is to be preferred over another when they do not agree, is also a rather modern development. To claim that the biblical authors wrote history or science is to do violence to the Bible. To further pretend that biblical “history” and “science” is superior to the history and the science written by “mere” human beings is doubly in error. It is wrong because in the Bible there is neither history nor science in the academic senses of the words. It is also wrong because just as history and science is written now, the Bible was also written by mere human beings. In other words, the biblical authors never ceased being fallible humans. — Herold Weiss

The Truth is, in uncritically (or even critically) embracing consensus undergirded “advances” in science, one may not have chosen to place her face in science, but has definitely chosen to place her faith in scientists. The same is true for history: we may not place our faith in history, but we certainly place our faith in historians. — Keith Burton

Historians who have studied the Gospels using the proper tools to evaluate evidence and giving reasons for prefering one source over another when they do not agree more or less agree as to what can be said historically about Jesus of Nazareth: He was born of a woman; he was baptized by John; he began his ministry in competition with John as a baptizer; he had many followers, but a close circle of special disciples; his coming to Jerusalem created a popular disturbance, he celebrated a last meal with this close circle; he was crucified by Pontius Pilate. It is very difficult for them to agree as to what was the core of his message. Undoubtedly it was such that caused Pilate to crucify him as one leading a revolt against Rome.
Now, is this information enough to make Him the Saviour of the World? The one who died for my sins? I know that Christians have claimed that their faith is based on historical facts. I don’t see how you can jump from a crucifixion, one among the hundreds performed by Romans between the years 25 and 35, to Savior of the World on account of the naked historical fact. The repeated mantra that the spade of the archaeologist confirms the Bible is a distraction. If it were the case that the spade of the archaeologist proves that the general historical circumstances described in the Bible are in accord with what we otherwise have come to know about the times, all we have proven is that the Bible is reliable history. We have proven nothing about its inspiration.
On the other hand, when I find that the Bible is not that good a historical source, does this disprove its inspiration? Absolutely not. I do not expect to find history in the academic sense written when such history did not exist. — Herold Weiss

Cleansing of the Sanctuary, Investigative Judgment and Righteousness by Faith September 2, 2009

What I believe is the correct understanding of Righteousness by Faith (the 1888 message)
(Adapted from Herbert Douglass)

1. A righteousness by faith seen in terms of “faithfulness” (good works) has the words but not the music of righteousness by faith.
2. Yet righteousness by faith is not “believism” where faith is only intellectual assent (this is the pervasive understanding in Protestantism).
3. Morality is relevant.
4. “Gospel to all the world.” The return of Jesus is not so much tied with a completion of missionary activity, but an end-time sealed people (as described in Revelation).
5. The objective truth of salvation is the gospel that though we are sinners, God still loves us and we are still in His family
6. While the objective elements are critical, the subjective elements must not be discounted. Objective truth must be applied… subjectively.
7. The subjective element is our (including angels and any other of God’s sentient creation) individual belief on whether God is trustworthy, loving, and righteous; and conversely that sin is deceptive, hateful, and blight to creation.
8. The door is kept open. Dare we believe it? Dare we return and walk through it?!
9. If we are born sinners and condemned for that and not our choices. Then salvation is a legal change in the books of heaven (mind of God). This is NOT the Adventist view.
10. The implications of that view are that we are doomed to remain sinners (it is after all our nature) and that the legal change in heaven cannot be changed (is not contingent on my actions – I wasn’t saved by my actions, so I can’t be un-saved by them either).
11. Note that acquittal or pardon (or forgiveness) – which is freely given by God – is not the same as dikaiosune or righteousness (best translated as “ones state as it ought to be” – what we were meant to be). Righteousness is the rightness of character/image/identity, not of legal status! Righteousness describes the restoration of the image of God in man.
12. Key point: Neither justification or righteousness by faith means: “because of my faith I am justified (acquitted)” nor “because of my faith I am made/set right (restored)”. Faith is NOT the substitute for righteousness. Faith is NOT even the virtue by which righteousness is gifted by God. Genuine faith is righteousness!
13. Faith is trusting in God’s trustworthiness. Faith is the natural response to God’s faithfulness. The Greek word for faith pistis indicates both thought and action.
14. Key point: In other words, someone who is saved by faith (all who are saved), are in reality safe to save (because they are all changed), because they all live (lives which are directed) by faith. Being “declared righteous” in this setting is actually true to fact – because we are back in harmony/relationship with God.
15. Thus Romans 8:4 – the righteous requirements of the law are fulfilled in us.
16. Revelation 19:8 – for the fine linen (of the Lamb’s bride) is the righteous acts of the saints
17. Romans 8:29-30 – conformed into Christ’s image
18. Salvation IS character change (restoration/healing)! (By definition)

Justification/righteousness by faith that does not remove the wrong condition in man
that had put him at enmity to God is not genuine, NT/righteousness by faith. If our sinful attitude
is not removed, then whatever is called justification/righteousness by faith is only a legal fiction.
(Many Bible commentators, other than Calvinists, understand this well). — Herbert Douglass

Thus the Cleansing of the Sanctuary = Day of Atonement = Yom Kippur = Reconciliation of God and the People = Afflicting our Souls = “Perfection”/Restoration of Character = Sealing of God’s People by the Holy Spirit = Last Generation of Faithful Witnesses (martureo) Gospel Going to All The World (not the verbal missionary message, but the “world” impacted by God’s people’s lives) = Vindication of God’s Actions/Character

This truly is the work of faith – joining the head with the heart. They have studied out the
reasons for their commitment to God’s calls for loyal Christians and they have discovered the
validating assurances of the Holy Spirit in their lives. The intellectual grasp of truth has
reached its transforming purpose—men and women have developed characters that will
vindicate God’s wisdom as He waits for the purpose of the gospel to be fully developed in the
lives of men and women. — Herbert Douglass

Note the bible emphasises this occurring corporately, not so much individually (although that does have to happen), for that is NOT the point!

Why is all this so important in the finishing of the Great Controversy?

Angels and unfallen worlds know (1) that the sealed ones are those who will never again rebel
against the will of God. Their habit patterns, their neuron-pathways, are so “settled into truth”
they never would be moved throughout eternity to say “No” to God!

(2) The sealed ones have proven God to be fair and true and Satan to be a liar: created
intelligences can obey God’s law and still be happy, at peace, and trustworthy. (“Great and
marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways” (Rev, 15:3).

(3) Everyone in the last generation, saved and unsaved, will have seen an undeniable display of
loyalty and commitment to God under the worst of times—no one will be denied an opportunity
to decide what they will do with truth. No one will say, “I never had a chance!”
– Herbert Douglass

Romans 13:9-14
Here are some commandments to think about. “Do not commit adultery.” “Do not commit murder.” “Do not steal.” “Do not want what belongs to others.” These and other commandments are all included in one rule. Here’s what it is. “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Love does not harm its neighbor. So love does everything the law requires.

When you do those things, keep in mind the times we are living in. The hour has come for you to wake up from your sleep. Our full salvation is closer now than it was when we first believed in Christ. The dark night of evil is nearly over. The day of Christ’s return is almost here. So let us get rid of the works of darkness. Let us put on the armor of light.

Let us act as we should, like people living in the daytime. Have nothing to do with wild parties. Don’t get drunk. Don’t take part in sexual sins or evil conduct. Don’t fight with each other. Don’t be jealous of anyone.

Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ as your clothing. Don’t think about how to satisfy what your sinful nature wants.

There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of today. The apostle Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber? The only reason is that the church has conformed to the world’s standard and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and His apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled. — The Great Controversy, page 48

Confidence September 1, 2009

A fantastic point of view on Confidence (comment from a reader of Spectrum Magazine):

Confidence/assurance is fine as far as it goes. Different personality styles seem to need that more than others. Full disclosure would demand I am not one that fixates on my moment to moment salvic state.

I have always thought that Adventists in general have considered the issue in a healthy way. They certainly dont follow the shallow “Once saved always saved” or “Cheap Grace” of other churches.
I have also considered that Adventists probably respect the concept more and approach the issue in part as did Job in 42:6 “Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” Having a great sense of their need of a Saviour. This humility can seem at odds with bold assertions of the state of ones salvation. Job certainly didn’t tell the Devil, I’m the best one on earth! God said so! Bring it on!

I guess the opposite side of the coin will be the ones experiencing the surprise of Matt 7:22,23 “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!”

Anyone here been prophesying lately? How about casting out demons? Part of your normal repertoire? How about working miracles? Probably every day right?
So who then is going to be surprised then? Evidently people with a better skill set than we all possess.
Perhaps a clarification of the concept would distinguish that we can have absolute confidence and assurance that Christs offer of salvation and sacrifice is valid and freely given, but our estimation of our salvic state at any particular point in time is best left in Gods hands.

Posted by: Michael | 01 September 2009 at 2:44

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/sabbath_school/2009/08/31/confidence

“Remnant” is a Mission not an Award August 28, 2009

Adventists don’t consider themselves the “remnant” because they believe they are superior in any way to everyone else, or that they have achieved a place in God’s heart that is exclusive to them.

Rather identifying with the “remnant” of the Bible reminds us of our mission to be exactly the kind of people the Bible describes the “remnant” as: people with integrity, who are fully faithful, completely committed in their loyalty to God and perfectly passionate about reaching other people. We were not called by God to be just the same as everyone else in the world; we are not called to conform, but to (be and to) transform (Rom 12:2). We are meant to be the “body of Jesus” that He “left behind” to continue His work.

The remnant (of and like Jesus) stands up, seeks out and saves; not sits down, stays in and feels saved.

Five Basic Styles of Thinking August 25, 2009

The Synthesist: Sees likeness in apparent unlikes, seeks conflict, interested in change
The Idealist: Welcomes broad range of views, seeks ideal solutions
The Pragmatist: “Whatever works” seeks shortest route to payoff
The Analyst: Seeks “one best way,” interested in scientific solutions
The Realist: Relies on “facts” and expert opinions, interested in concrete results.

Alden Thompson comments on his latest book Beyond Common Ground August 24, 2009

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/spectrum_interview/2009/08/24/peek_inside

“all theology is autobiographical”

“Speak to them, as you have opportunity, upon points of doctrine on which you can agree. Dwell on the necessity of practical godliness. Give them evidence that you are a Christian, desiring peace, and that you love their souls. Let them see that you are conscientious. Thus you will gain their confidence; and there will be time enough for doctrines. Let the heart be won, the soil prepared, and then sow the seed, presenting in love the truth as it is in Jesus”

(Gospel Workers, 119-120 [1915]; Evangelism, 200; cf. “Letter to a Minister and His Wife Bound for Africa” [June 25, 1887 = Letter 12, to Elder Boyd; almost verbatim “original” of the Gospel Worker quote] in Testimonies to Southern Africa, pp. 14-20)

Insights from Spectrum Magazine “Prophets and Trust” 17/4/09 August 24, 2009

David Larson in the comments:

Here is what I like to do: (1) Distinguish between absolute and presumptive authority and (2) distinguish between formal (who says it) and material (what it says) authority.

So, conceptually speaking, we have at least four options:

1. Formal/absolute authority
2. Material/absolute authority
3. Formal/presumptive authority
4. Material/presumptive authority

The closer we get to #4 the better, the closer we get to #1, the worst.

But I think the “Great Controversy” theme, which holds that God tries to persuades people rather than coerce them, shows that inisiting on divine authority is not the way God does things. So, as you say, we can point to no legitimate example of, say, #1.

But lots of people prefer #1 and get as much of it as they can.

Example: “Why should you do this?” “Because I said so, that’s why!!”
Posted by: davidrlarson | 19 April 2009 at 3:00

Spurgeon August 24, 2009

The man who never reads will never be read; he who never quotes will never be quoted. He who will not use the thoughts of other men’s brains, proves that he has no brains of his own.

Signs of the Times, May 19, 1890. Paragraph 7-10 August 24, 2009

If happiness is drawn from outside sources, and not from the Divine Fount, it will be as changeable as varying circumstances can make it; but the peace of Christ is a constant and abiding peace. It does not depend on any circumstance in life, on the amount of worldly goods, or the number of earthly friends. Christ is the fountain of living waters, and happiness and peace drawn from him will never fail, for he is a well-spring of life. Those who trust in him can say: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High.”

We have reason for ceaseless gratitude to God that Christ, by his perfect obedience, has won back the heaven that Adam lost through disobedience. Adam sinned, and the children of Adam share his guilt and its consequences; but Jesus bore the guilt of Adam, and all the children of Adam that will flee to Christ, the second Adam, may escape the penalty of transgression. Jesus regained heaven for man by bearing the test that Adam failed to endure; for he obeyed the law perfectly, and all who have a right conception of the plan of redemption will see that they cannot be saved while in transgression of God’s holy precepts. They must cease to transgress the law, and lay hold on the promises of God that are available for us through the merits of Christ.

Our faith is not to stand in the ability of men but in the power of God. There is danger of trusting in men, even though they may have been used as instruments of God to do a great and good work. Christ must be our strength and our refuge. The best of men may fall from their steadfastness, and the best of religion, when corrupted, is ever the most dangerous in its influence upon minds. Pure, living religion is found in obedience to every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Righteousness exalts a nation, and the absence of it degrades and ruins man.

From the pulpits of today the words are uttered: “Believe, only believe. Have faith in Christ; you have nothing to do with the old law, only trust in Christ.” How different is this from the words of the apostle, who declares that faith without works is dead. He says, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” We must have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Many seek to substitute a superficial faith for uprightness of life, and think through this to obtain salvation. The Lord requires at this time just what he required of Adam in Eden,–perfect obedience to the law of God. We must have righteousness without a flaw, without a blemish. God gave his son to die for the world, but he did not die to repeal the law which was holy and just and good. The sacrifice of Christ on Calvary is an unanswerable argument showing the immutability of the law. Its penalty was felt by the Son of God in behalf of guilty man, that through his merits the sinner might obtain the virtue of his spotless character by faith in his name. The sinner was provided with a second opportunity to keep the law of God in the strength of his Divine Redeemer. The cross of Calvary forever condemns the idea that Satan has placed before the Christian world, that the death of Christ abolished not only the typical system of sacrifices and ceremonies but the unchangeable law of God, the foundation of his throne, the transcript of his character. Through every device possible Satan has sought to make of none effect the sacrifice of the Son of God, to render his expiation useless, and his mission a failure. He has claimed that the death of Christ made obedience to the law unnecessary, and permitted the sinner to come into favor with a holy God without forsaking his sin. He has declared that the Old Testament standard was lowered in the gospel, and that men can come to Christ, not to be saved from their sins but in their sins. But when John beheld Jesus he told his mission. He said, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” To every repentant soul the message is, “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

Prophecy August 24, 2009

Amos 3:7
Surely the Lord GOD does nothing,
Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets.

Hebrews 1:1-2
God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds;

Acts 2:16-21
But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
‘ And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God,
That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh;
Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
Your young men shall see visions,
Your old men shall dream dreams.
And on My menservants and on My maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days;
And they shall prophesy.
I will show wonders in heaven above
And signs in the earth beneath:
Blood and fire and vapor of smoke.
The sun shall be turned into darkness,
And the moon into blood,
Before the coming of the great and awesome day of the LORD.
And it shall come to pass
That whoever calls on the name of the LORD
Shall be saved.’

Revelation
1:2 John was the witness of the witness of Jesus Christ. His life reflected the things he saw.
6:9 Many have been killed for God’s word and for their witness for Jesus
10:7-11 God has declared his “mystery” to his servants the prophets. And John as symbolic representative of God’s servants must “digest” the witness of Jesus, the mystery. In doing so he will be martyred, that is his witness for Jesus. But he is encouraged to continue to prophesy.
12:11 God’s servants overcome by the blood of Jesus and their faithful witness, which is not to love their lives over Jesus.
12:17 Satan went to make war with God’s servants, who obey God’s word and live their lives according to the witness of Jesus.
19:10 The witness (testimony) of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.
22:6 God has sent his angel to show his servants the future through John’s Revelation
22:9 God servants, including the prophets, who keep the words of John’s Revelation

Prophecy is linked with witness/testimony (Gr. martyria). Jesus’ life was his witness – the revelation of what God is like in character. Those who saw Jesus’ life lived accordingly, their witness, their prophecy. Many became martyrs. God’s people are prophets/witnesses/martyrs, who sacrifice their life for God.

Romans 12:6, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Ephesians 4:11
God has appointed ambassadors (apostles, those sent), prophets (speakers), evangelists (preachers of the good news), teachers, healers.

1 Corinthians 14:1-5
Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.

Matthew 24:11
And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.

2 Peter 2:1
But there will also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them–bringing swift destruction on themselves.

1 John 4:1
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

1 Thess 5:19-22
Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.

I very much appreciate the insights of Dr Graeme Bradford in this Spectrum Magazine article (http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/sabbath_school/2009/01/05/prophetic_gift).

Keep Getting Up August 19, 2009

David Asscherick Monday Manna

Steps to Christ, p63-4
There are those who have known the pardoning love of Christ and who really desire to be children of God, yet they realize that their character is imperfect, their life faulty, and they are ready to doubt whether their hearts have been renewed by the Holy Spirit. To such I would say, Do not draw back in despair. We shall often have to bow down and weep at the feet of Jesus because of our shortcomings and mistakes, but we are not to be discouraged. Even if we are overcome by the enemy, we are not cast off, not forsaken and rejected of God. No; Christ is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Said the beloved John, “These things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 2:1. And do not forget the words of Christ, “The Father Himself loveth you.” John 16:27. He desires to restore you to Himself, to see His own purity and holiness reflected in you. And if you will but yield yourself to Him, He that hath begun a good work in you will carry it forward to the day of Jesus Christ. Pray more fervently; believe more fully. As we come to distrust our own power, let us trust the power of our Redeemer, and we shall praise Him who is the health of our countenance.

Ellen White on Law and Grace August 15, 2009

He who is trying to reach heaven by his own works in keeping the law, is attempting an impossibility. Man cannot be saved without obedience, but his works should not be of himself; Christ should work in him to will and to do of his good pleasure. If a man could save himself by his own works, he might have something in himself in which to rejoice. The effort that man makes in his own strength to obtain salvation, is represented by the offering of Cain. All that man can do without Christ is polluted with selfishness and sin; but that which is wrought through faith is acceptable to God. When we seek to gain heaven through the merits of Christ, the soul makes progress. Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, we may go on from strength, from victory to victory; for through Christ the grace of God has worked out our complete salvation.

{RH, July 1, 1890 par. 11}

David Asscherick – What Wondrous Love Is This August 15, 2009

Character and Choices August 12, 2009

Character isn’t built in a day; it is built day by day

The choices you make today create the person you are tomorrow. The person you are tomorrow may not even be capable of making the choices of today.

Great Song Search Website August 10, 2009

http://songza.com/

I believe God is August 3, 2009

Big Daddy
The First and the Best Humanitarian – and not just for kids in Africa, but for you and me too
Mr Dependable
The Go-to Guy

Francis of Assisi August 3, 2009

Unless you preach everywhere you go, there is no use going anywhere to preach.

Preach the gospel everywhere you go, and, if necessary, use words.

Start by doing what is necessary, then do what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.

The Calf-Path by Sam Walter Foss August 3, 2009

One day, through the primeval wood,
A calf walked home, as good calves should;
But made a trail all bent askew,
A crooked trail, as all calves do.

Since then three hundred years have fled,
And, I infer, the calf is dead.
But still he left behind his trail,
And thereby hangs my moral tale.

The trail was taken up next day
By a lone dog that passed that way;
And then a wise bellwether sheep
Pursued the trail o’er vale and steep,
And drew the flock behind him, too,
As good bellwethers always do.

And from that day, o’er hill and glade,
Through those old woods a path was made,
And many men wound in and out,
And dodged and turned and bent about,
And uttered words of righteous wrath
Because ’twas such a crooked path;
But still they followed — do not laugh —
The first migrations of that calf,
And through this winding wood-way stalked
Because he wobbled when he walked.

This forest path became a lane,
That bent, and turned, and turned again.
This crooked lane became a road,
Where many a poor horse with his load
Toiled on beneath the burning sun,
And traveled some three miles in one.
And thus a century and a half
They trod the footsteps of that calf.

The years passed on in swiftness fleet.
The road became a village street,
And this, before men were aware,
A city’s crowded thoroughfare,
And soon the central street was this
Of a renowned metropolis;
And men two centuries and a half
Trod in the footsteps of that calf.

Each day a hundred thousand rout
Followed that zigzag calf about,
And o’er his crooked journey went
The traffic of a continent.
A hundred thousand men were led
By one calf near three centuries dead.
They follow still his crooked way,
And lose one hundred years a day,
For thus such reverence is lent
To well-established precedent.

A moral lesson this might teach
Were I ordained and called to preach;
For men are prone to go it blind
Along the calf-paths of the mind,
And work away from sun to sun
To do what other men have done.
They follow in the beaten track,
And out and in, and forth and back,
And still their devious course pursue,
To keep the path that others do.

They keep the path a sacred groove,
Along which all their lives they move;
But how the wise old wood-gods laugh,
Who saw the first primeval calf!
Ah, many things this tale might teach —
But I am not ordained to preach.

Don’t just study the Bible to know; study the Bible to share August 3, 2009

Make your weekly church service a SAFE place to bring your friends (every week should be “Visitors’ Day”)

Don’t be afraid to be a fool for Christ and suffer for His sake

What is a Christian? Someone who has the heart of God. Love: seeking the blessing of others at any cost, even to the expense of oneself.

Courtesy of David Asscherick’s “The 15 Most Common Mistakes made by New Soul Winners”

http://www.yourvideos.net/hopevideo/MIMen/2007/New-David-Session-64.MP3

Linda Kirk to Ernie Knoll – Not A Prophet July 25, 2009

http://www.notaprophet.org/articles/open_letter_to_ernie_knoll.html

“If Satan has a specific target in our world today, it would be the sincere, spiritually minded Seventh-day Adventist, who is sighing and crying for the abominations done in the land and in the church. They are open to prophecy because they believe in the Spirit of Prophecy. They are open to new light because Ellen White has said there will be new light. They are open to dreams and visions, because Ellen White had dreams and visions, and the Bible prophesies that this will take place in the last days. So, what deception could Satan use to reach this group?”

Sam Shoemaker – I Stand By The Door July 22, 2009

I stand by the door.
I neither go too far in, nor stay too far out,
The door is the most important door in the world-
It is the door through which people walk when they find God.
There’s no use my going way inside, and staying there,
When so many are still outside and they, as much as I,
Crave to know where the door is.
And all that so many ever find
Is only the wall where a door ought to be.
They creep along the wall like blind people,
With outstretched, groping hands.
Feeling for a door, knowing there must be a door,
Yet they never find it …
So I stand by the door.

The most tremendous thing in the world
Is for people to find that door–the door to God.
The most important thing any person can do
Is to take hold of one of those blind, groping hands,
And put it on the latch–the latch that only clicks
And opens to the person’s own touch.
People die outside that door, as starving beggars die
On cold nights in cruel cities in the dead of winter—
Die for want of what is within their grasp.
They live, on the other side of it–live because they have not found it.
Nothing else matters compared to helping them find it,
And open it, and walk in, and find Him …
So I stand by the door.

Go in, great saints, go all the way in–
Go way down into the cavernous cellars,
And way up into the spacious attics–
It is a vast roomy house, this house where God is.
Go into the deepest of hidden casements,
Of withdrawal, of silence, of sainthood.
Some must inhabit those inner rooms.
And know the depths and heights of God,
And call outside to the rest of us how wonderful it is.
Sometimes I take a deeper look in,
Sometimes venture in a little farther;
But my place seems closer to the opening …
So I stand by the door.

There is another reason why I stand there.
Some people get part way in and become afraid
Lest God and the zeal of His house devour them
For God is so very great, and asks all of us.
And these people feel a cosmic claustrophobia,
And want to get out. “Let me out!” they cry,
And the people way inside only terrify, them more.
Somebody must be by the door to tell them that they are spoiled
For the old life, they have seen too much:
Once taste God, and nothing but God will do any more.
Somebody must be watching for the frightened
Who seek to sneak out just where they came in,
To tell them how much better it is inside.
The people too far in do not see how near these are
To leaving–preoccupied with the wonder of it all.
Somebody must watch for those who have entered the door,
But would like to run away. So for them, too,
I stand by the door.

I admire the people who go way in.
But I wish they would not forget how it was
Before they got in. Then they would be able to help
The people who have not, yet even found the door,
Or the people who want to run away again from God,
You can go in too deeply, and stay in too long,
And forget the people outside the door.
As for me, I shall take my old accustomed place,
Near enough to God to hear Him, and know He is there,
But not so far from people as not to hear them,
And remember they are there, too.
Where? Outside the door–
Thousands of them, millions of them.
But–more important for me–
One of them, two of them, ten of them,
Whose hands I am intended to put on the latch.
So I shall stand by the door and wait
For those who seek it.
“I had rather be a door-keeper …”
So I stand by the door.

Luke 18:9-14 TNIV July 20, 2009

To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about[a] himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’

“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

“I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

When Truth may not be based on Fact July 17, 2009

http://atoday.com/bible-facts-andor-truth

The bible is full of Parables, and Jesus often spoke in symbols, stories, hyperbole and metaphor.

Justice courtesy of Paul Heubach July 17, 2009

Man’s justice fits the crime.
“An eye for an eye; a tooth for a tooth.”

God’s justice is fit for the criminal.
Only he sees the heart, for the motive determines the character of the crime.

God’s justice sets right the criminal.
Man’s justice sets right the crime.

Two Gospels and The Cross July 9, 2009

John 9:2 The disciples asked Jesus, who sinned for this man to be born blind, himself or his parents

Jesus’ answer is revealing.

Jesus separated the consequences/effects/nature of sin in general from the choices/acts/behaviour which are condemnable and lead to guilt.

There is a popular gospel that says we are condemned because we have a sinful nature (nothing we chose, nothing we can do about it). And the solution is supposedly that God forgives us. All we have to do is accept.

But:
Results of evil or sinful nature (bad equipment) – don’t need forgiveness, they need restoration.

Guiltiness from sinful choices (conscious rejection) – needs forgiveness.

In reality, the Bible teaches we are condemned because of our own personal choice to go against God – or what is right (James 4:17; John 3:18-21). We are condemned for using our free will in a destructive (self or others) way. Jesus didn’t come to condemn but to save (John 3:16-17).

Our nature (the results of evil; bad equipment) is just a consequence of our choices (or sometimes the choices of others). For this we need healing, not forgiveness. Does any patient say to their doctor, I want forgiveness?

But because of God’s forgiveness, it draws us to the One who can heal.

—

At the cross, Jesus experienced two things:

1. Psychological and emotional torment — This is the natural consequence of “sin”. We feel separated from God (Isaiah 59:2). “Afflicted” (Isaiah 53:4). He took on the disease. But this was all unseen by us. He did this because he had already *charizomai* us (accepted us with his gracious favour).

2. Physical scourging — this was what we did to Christ. This we saw. And it was this torture that we see Jesus forgiving (Luke 23:34). This was the ultimate display of Christ’s matchless love – in ultimate suffering. “By his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). Drawn to that we can be *aphiemi* (our burden be lifted away).

Great Bible Study Books July 6, 2009

http://www.adventist.org.my/books.htm

Tell The World (Bible Speaks)
Studying Together – Mark Finley

Bible Handbook – SN Haskell
(http://www.adventistbookcenter.com/Detail.tpl?sku=0828005567 and http://maranathamedia.com/start/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_download&gid=424&Itemid=99999999)

Seventh-day Adventists Believe

http://www.sdanet.org/atissue/books/27/

Free Online Bible Study Guides July 6, 2009

http://catalog.hopetalk.org/english

Free E-books from Voice of Prophecy July 6, 2009

http://www.vop.com/article.php?id=386

Goodspeed’s NT in An American Translation 1939 July 6, 2009

http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=82396727

Graham Maxwell interview with David Larson on blip.tv July 6, 2009

Download http://blip.tv/file/get/EclecticChoice-GrahamMaxwellInterview726.flv

Thanks to the Eclectic.

Conversations about God http://conversationsofgod.blip.tv/

“New Theology” in Adventism July 4, 2009

As I see it is summarised in this way:

Justification is seen primarily as a legal adjustment in heaven (i.e. objective salvation only or “counting right” only not “making right” as well).

Sanctification (or “perfection”) is me doing the best I can and God fills in the gaps. Hence sanctification becomes faith + works. It’s not part of salvation, it’s what happens “after you are saved.” Which begs the question, “what actually happens when you are saved?” The answer will be a change in legal standing (a narrow definition of “justification”). This results in a belief in imperfection until Jesus comes. (This is in contrast to descriptions of “dying to sin”, “crucified with Christ”, “not I that live, but Christ living in me”. God clearly calls for “perfection” in the Bible. I feel the reason “New Theology” proponents have difficulty accepting this Biblical position is because of how they define “perfection”.)

I am really reluctant to use the terms Justification and Sanctification and Perfection in this setting because they are quite strictly defined in various ways by different people. Thus they carry a lot of baggage – they are loaded. Baptist and Methodist theology have always rigidly separated Justification and Sanctification. Whereas in reality, they are probably simply two models (one legal, one ceremonial) of describing the same change!

This “New Theology” viewpoint naturally develops from a purely forensic/legal model of looking at the sin problem. One that comes through the Magisterial Reformation and influenced by Anselm, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin and Arminius (all of whom were concerned with some sort of debt owed to God which demanded some sort of price/payment/penance/punishment). It misses the fact that Adventist soteriology developed from a Radical Reformation basis and progressed far away from Lutheran and Calvinist views. Adventist “Righteousness by Faith” brought out by the 1888 controversy is radically different from the conventional Protestant Righteousness by Faith taught today.

In “New Theology”, Sin is primarily our status (it is our nature or we are in great debt or we are under a death penalty). And hence salvation is primarily a change of this legal status. The emphasis on choice, that sin is a product of our misuse of free-will, is lost in Calvinistic TULIP. As a result, we are “sinful because we are sinners” (wrap your head around that one), we can’t help it, we were born that way – it’s in our nature. God (almost) appears to be the enemy. After all it is He who has determined our legal standing as lost or saved. And he’s blaming us for a nature we can’t help!

This naturally leads to a belief that Christ had a completely “sinless nature” (i.e. He was not like us in every way, but without sin). “There needs to be something Christ had that we don’t have access to, otherwise why do we keep sinning? Jesus can’t have all of the faulty equipment we have (otherwise He’d need a saviour too). We don’t have a choice in the matter, we’re imperfect and will be until Christ comes.”

But we are not condemned because of faulty equipment. Christ was “tempted in every way that we are” (in our equipment) “yet he did not sin” (Heb 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22). Yet even on the cross, Jesus is described (albeit by His mockers) as “trusting in God” (Matthew 27:43). We are condemned because we allow our temptations and faulty thought patterns to make us distrust God (make God the enemy). That’s what makes us sinners. John emphasises (1 John 4:2; 2 John 7) that is important to believe that Jesus Christ came in the flesh (and you will never find “holy” or “sinless” flesh in the bible – “flesh” is always a description of the fallen human condition).

All God asks of us is trust. We don’t need new “equipment”. We need healing of the “equipment” we have. Look at how the bible describes this “renewing of the mind” Rom 12:2, 2 Cor. 4:16, Eph 4:23, Col 3:10, Titus 3:5 (a great list of verse: http://www.christinyou.net/pages/renewmind.html). There is a real subjective change of heart described by the Bible of the saved. A change of heart leads to a change of action. But it’s not I that live but Christ in me (Gal 2:19-20). God now works in me (Heb 13:20-21).

I believe you don’t have to take any of the “New Theology” views to arrive at a fully grace-based soteriology. I believe that perhaps a trust-healing model could negate the necessity to adopt “New Theology” to find assurance and a loving God.

John 15:3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.

Jesus’ disciples hearts had become teachable. Their hearts now cleansed, trusted in God. Christ calls the “clean” before the Cross! He says they are clean because of the “word”! There is far more to salvation than a legal acquittal of charges (although that is a fair way to describe one aspect of salvation).

Here is a statement by E.J. Waggoner in Christ Our Righteousness p. 69

The taking away of the filthy garments [Zechariah 3:1-5] is the same as causing the iniquity to pass from the person. And so we find that when Christ covers us with the robe of His own righteousness, He does not furnish a cloak for sin but takes the sin away. And this shows that the forgiveness of sins is something more than a mere form, something more than a mere entry in the books of record in heaven, to the effect that the sin has been canceled. The forgiveness of sins is a reality; it is something tangible, something that vitally affects the individual. It actually clears him from guilt, and if he is cleared from guilt, is justified, made righteous, he has certainly undergone a radical change.

Positive Mantras don’t work July 4, 2009

In fact in the people who need them the most (those with low self-esteem), they have the opposite effect:

http://www.canada.com/health/Sorry+Oprah+Self+help+books+seldom+helpful/1756585/story.html

Just being told that “God is love” and “Christ died for you” over and over and over again is unlikely to have any benefit for the soul who feels lost and unworthy. Unless this is proven through experience (through a real relationship with Christ), nothing much may change. It’s interesting that one rarely is able to convince oneself to believe something when one is aware that one does not yet believe it. Most people who believe something strongly either have clear evidence, or have never needed convincing in the first place.

Rob Bell’s Trampoline July 3, 2009

I appreciate the elegance of Rob Bell’s Trampoline analogy expressed in his book Velvet Elvis. The springs represent doctrine, which may or may not facilitate jumping. But the point is not the springs. The point is to jump.

Here are some alternate views:

http://www.blog.godfidence.org/2008/05/rob-bells-trampoline/

http://michaelkrahn.wordpress.com/2007/04/18/smashing-brickworld-rob-bells-velvet-elvis-part-4/

Great Article on domains of “Mathematics” (Logic), “Science” (Observation) and “Humanities” (Philosophy) July 1, 2009

http://www.spectrummagazine.org/blog/2009/06/30/why_mathematics_science_and_humanities_including_religion_don%E2%80%99t_have_quarrel

Random Thoughts June 18, 2009

Proverbs 25:15 (BBE) “A judge is moved by one who for a long time undergoes wrongs without protest, and by a soft tongue even bone is broken.”

“Do as little as possible, and that unwillingly, for it is better to receive a slight reprimand than to perform an arduous task.” The corollary to this is that an awful lot of life’s problems solve themselves.

“The only thing we learn from history is that people learn nothing from history” – Hegel

I believe in rehabilitation not retribution.

“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” – Edmund Burke

The world is a playground, and life is pushing my swing. – Natalie Kocsis

Even hundredfold grief is divisible by love. – Jareb Teague

Insanity: Doing the same thing and expecting different results

“You will break the bow if you keep it always bent.”

“Dream as if you’ll live forever, live as if you’ll die today.” – James Dean

Sabbath – I rest my case June 17, 2009

God’s demonstration of his powerful character of love. Creation, Deliverance (Exodus), Return (from Exile), Redemption, Recreation.

“I rest my case”

The Centre of Mission is God June 17, 2009

Listen to Ty Gibson at about 0:30:00

http://www.heavenlysanctuary.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=200705262033398

He talks about why Adventists are missing the mission — confusing our purpose. We are baptising people into 28 points, not into God. Isolated points, but far from the centre of God.

Courtesy of Alden Thompson at Good News Tour 2006, Panel Discussion 2 June 17, 2009

Just like Alcoholics Anonymous: Once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic.

Once a sinner saved by grace, always a sinner saved by grace. A saint is merely a sinner held in the arms of God. I must never forget where I came from, because when I do I risk becoming the most arrogant, critical, judgmental, self-righteous hypocrite the world has ever seen.

Once a sinner saved by grace, always a sinner if not for grace.

The struggle of Romans 7 is the struggle of every person. Is there anyone here who would deny that?

“Our vocation is, I believe, to build good out of evil. For if we try to build good out of good, we are in danger of running out of raw material.” Paul Tournier

Deut 7:16-23

Also you shall destroy all the peoples whom the LORD your God delivers over to you; your eye shall have no pity on them; nor shall you serve their gods, for that will be a snare to you.
“If you should say in your heart, ‘These nations are greater than I; how can I dispossess them?’— you shall not be afraid of them, but you shall remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt: the great trials which your eyes saw, the signs and the wonders, the mighty hand and the outstretched arm, by which the LORD your God brought you out. So shall the LORD your God do to all the peoples of whom you are afraid. Moreover the LORD your God will send the hornet among them until those who are left, who hide themselves from you, are destroyed. You shall not be terrified of them; for the LORD your God, the great and awesome God, is among you. And the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you little by little; you will be unable to destroy them at once, lest the beasts of the field become too numerous for you. But the LORD your God will deliver them over to you, and will inflict defeat upon them until they are destroyed.

Our illness is chronic. Had it not been…

Ellen White on being careful not to hold to tightly to our opinions June 16, 2009

There is no excuse for any one in taking the position that there is no more truth to be revealed, and that all our expositions of Scripture are without an error. The fact that certain doctrines have been held as truth for many years by our people, is not a proof that our ideas are infallible. Age will not make error into truth, and truth can afford to be fair. No true doctrine will lose anything by close investigation. We are living in perilous times, and it does not become us to accept everything claimed to be truth without examining it thoroughly; neither can we afford to reject anything that bears the fruits of the Spirit of God; but we should be teachable, meek and lowly of heart. There are those who oppose everything that is not in accordance with their own ideas, and by so doing they endanger their eternal interest as verily as did the Jewish nation in their rejection of Christ. The Lord designs that our opinions shall be put to the test, that we may see the necessity of closely examining the living oracles to see whether or not we are in the faith. Many who claim to believe the truth have settled down at their ease, saying, “I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.” But Jesus says to these self-complacent ones, Thou “knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” Let us individually inquire, Do these words describe my case? If so, the True Witness counsels us, saying, “Buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see.”

{RH, December 20, 1892 par. 1}

Fernando Ortega – Prayer for Home June 15, 2009

Grant them peace,
Most precious gift of all,
Keep the worried world
Far away and small.
When they return
May quiet fill their souls
Dearest Lord, keep them safe
Within its walls

May the stone
Be cool beneath their feet,
The canyon breezes
Circle soft and sweet.
When darkness falls
The stars and opal moon
Find them wrapped in each other,
Ever warm.

May it be a refuge for their love,
A harbor for their deepest prayer.
May they come to flourish in the grove,
Grow ever nearer to you there.

Many a burdened friend
In their company rises.
A heavy heart
Is soon released to fly.
May their table be blessed with laughter and with grace,
And by the comfort of kinship
Be surprised.

May the cold winds
Blow far from their front door.
May the winter rains
Never bring them harm.
May their hearth fires
Burn throughout the night.
Grant them sleep
Until morning’s perfect light.

Something I need to catch myself from doing every now and then June 14, 2009

From David Person’s article in Adventist Today: http://atoday.com/content/price-membership

“What’s disturbing is that [me/you/we] doesn’t agree [with some particular thing - in the case of this article - jewelry]. They seem to think it’s their church and the rest of us are just here because they are benevolent hosts.”

Sometimes I need to remind myself that this isn’t “my” church. It’s Christ’s! And I don’t have the right to play referee.

One comment was very thoughtful and balanced:

On June 6th, 2009 statefarmsteve says:

Wouldn’t it be interesting if sermons came with 2 sides, or a second sermon were to follow the first from a different perspective?

I’m no theologian, but I’d encourage all to listen, take in the minister’s sermon, and then let it simmer and percolate in your heart. If it hits home, then fine. If not, then after the closing prayer, walk from your seat, out the center isle, jingling and jangling like a pocketfull of change at a double dutch competition. Then next week, come back, and listen to the next message. It might hit home or fit more into what you might need.

I’m sure the pastor enters into each of his studies with the earnestly prayerful desire that his words help, not hurt. If you’re not hurt, stay. If you are hurt, stay, but let him know. I don’t think he’s trying to push any of his flock out of the door. Who knows? This particular sermon may have really hit home to someone who needed it. I’m not saying the pastor was right, or that his message was on perfectly on point, but I believe that God uses us all, including pastors, to further his work. Sometimes we let him down. When we do, and we will, the best we can do is keep trying to move forward in our spiritual growth.

A lot of good pastors and adventists have to say “oops” every now and again.

Some insights from another comment:

I am somewhat disappointed at the comments on David’s opinion piece. No, I’m not surprised at Sorensen’s and his kin’s comments; they are consistent with their belief and approach. I am surprised at the reaction of those who feel the preacher shouldn’t have preached that sermon on jewelry. I am not sure we are consistent. My experience has been that the very “conservative” have been intolerant of their brother’s opinion, but the non-traditional have been very tolerant–some of my saints used to criticize us for allowing “pluralism”! But in the comments I find the non-traditionalist advocating walking out on the sermon. No, I wouldn’t preach that sermon against Jewelry. In fact, you should have seen my reaction when I found a guest lay-speaker preached that sort of sermon in my church while I was away at my small church that Sabbath. (and my wife almost did walk out on the sermon!)

But shouldn’t we leave that sort of reaction (walking out on the sermon) to the more narrow minded among us. (as “they” have walked out on my sermons!)

Yes, I would speak with the pastor (who I would have been friends with) about my concern for the sermon and its results. Yes, I probably would find somewhere else to worship if this was usual weekly type of sermon. But, walk out on the sermon? No, I don’t think anyone gains by that approach. I do like the idea of having a time at church for a good discussion of the sermon over “coffee,” though!

If I want people to take the time to understand and allow me my opinions, I must do the same for others. There is no situation in which the least gracious response (walking out, arguing) can be the right one. Let us have this attitude – the one that God has towards us even when we are sinning – come let us reason together (Isaiah 1:18).

The Unchanged Reformers June 13, 2009

http://www.evangelicaloutreach.org/ashes.htm

http://www.freewill-predestination.com/unchanged.html

Larry Kirkpatrick’s concerns about the GraceLink children’s sabbath school curriculum June 11, 2009

http://www.greatcontroversy.org/reportandreview/kir-gracelink-oi.php3

Well written piece.

Especially appreciate this line:
“The gospel is not there to beat us down, but it is not given either to lesson our interest in obeying God or our anxiety when we sin.”

Totally agree. Jesus didn’t die to make us “feel” better. He came to make us actually better.

From the Valuegenesis book:

“In college he [a former student of Roger Dudley] became enamored with the teachings of a professor who presented righteousness by faith as composed of justification alone. The work of salvation was completely objective — removed from our experience. It had only to do with the cross; nothing with daily living. . . . [after later being thrown in jail for intoxication] He was particularly sustained by his religion. Remembering what his professor had told him about righteousness by faith, he recalled, ‘Not for a moment, even while drunk in that dismal jail cell, did I forget that I was in right standing with God.’” Then follows the author’s analysis, and an amazing analysis it is: “Few of us understand righteousness by grace through faith in such a complete sense.”

Just because God loves us unconditionally. It does not follow that God necessarily approves of all our actions.

Paul Tillich on the Theologian’s Struggle June 9, 2009

The theologian is obligated to be critical of every special expression of his ultimate concern. He cannot affirm any tradition and any authority except through a “No” and a “Yes”. And it is always possible that he may not take the risk of being driven beyond the boundary line of the theological circle. Therefore, the pious and powerful in the church are suspicious of him, although they live in dependence upon the work of the former theologians who were in the same situation. Theology, since it serves not only the concrete but also the universal logos, can become a stumbling block for the church and a demonic temptation for the theologian. The detachment required in one’s theological work can destroy the necessary involvement of faith. This tension is the burden and the greatness of every theological work.

My new favourite passage of scripture June 9, 2009

2 Cor 5:14-6:2

I believe it sums up what I presently believe to be important as a Christian.

Greg Boyd – What A Christian Looks Like June 8, 2009

http://www.heavenlysanctuary.com/filemgmt/index.php?id=292

Excellent Sermon

Rules don’t change the heart June 8, 2009

“These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh” (Colossians 2:23).

Dan Vis June 6, 2009

http://www.inspirasjonsuken.no/en/dan.htm

http://ekebyholm.adventkyrka.se/tyrifjord

The Expert by Keith Burton June 6, 2009

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/column/2009/06/05/expert

The value of theological training

Graham Maxwell – Conversations About Good June 5, 2009

http://conversationsofgod.blip.tv/

Alden Thompson June 5, 2009

On Ellen White:

On diversity:

19th Century Millerite Headlines June 5, 2009

http://arthurandteresabeem.blogspot.com/2009/04/19th-century-millerite-headlines.html

Fritz Guy on the History of Seventh-day Adventist’s Statement of Fundamental Beliefs June 5, 2009

http://www.sdanet.org/atissue/doctrines/au2002conference/guy/guy27origin.htm

US to AU re-shippers May 24, 2009

http://blog.ozbargain.com.au/2008/price-usa-review-totally-awesome/

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies-archive.cfm/913221.html

—

http://www.bongous.com/

http://www.priceusa.com.au/

http://www.boxvoyage.com/

—

http://www.myus.com/index.shtml

http://secure.onenow.com/COMGATEWAY/

http://forwardit.us/

http://www.youronlinegenie.com/

Paul Washer May 13, 2009

I have just discovered Paul Washer, a Baptist preacher. His gospel hearkens back to the days of the Great Awakening – Whitefield, Edward, Spurgeon. His indictments of today’s version of Christianity is so true. Although his gospel is so clearly Baptist, how I wish that men like him would discover the Adventist Movement that I have found. The Advent message (and the Great Controversy/Trust-Healing model) would complete his message. Thank the Lord for the many who preach His word in truth and not a watered down gospel with no power at all.

—

One point I learned from Paul’s sermons:
The question is not will you allow Jesus to come into and renovate your heart? The question is has God done such a work in your heart that your passion and your desire and your greatest need is to throw yourself and cling to Christ alone? (Just like the woman with the issue of blood, do you have a faith borne of desperation? If you do, you will have a passionate love for God borne of God’s great love for you.)

God’s way of presenting truth May 12, 2009

Evangelism p. 525
“The divine commission needs no reform. Christ’s way of presenting truth cannot be improved upon. The worker who tries to bring in methods that will attract the worldly minded, supposing that this will remove the objections that they feel to taking up the cross, lessens his influence. Preserve the simplicity of godliness.”

Counsels on Health p. 498
“The Saviour gave the disciples practical lessons, teaching them how to work in such a way as to make souls glad in the truth. He sympathized with the weary, the heavy-laden, the oppressed. He fed the hungry and healed the sick. Constantly He went about doing good. By the good He accomplished, by His loving words and kindly deeds, He interpreted the gospel to men.”

Unconditional Grace, but Conditional Salvation May 12, 2009

God loves us no matter what. God will be good to us (grace) whatever we do. God wants to save us above anything else. But just as a doctor cannot help a patient who doesn’t seek or follow advice, God will not force the unbelieving man.

Hosea 2:16 May 3, 2009

One day, you will no longer call me Master, but Husband.

To those who think the church is Babylon April 19, 2009

To those who feel the best response to “apostasy” in the church is to separate and throw stones at those who remain, here are some selected thoughts of Ellen White as compiled in the devotional In Heavenly Places (1968).

Chap. 277 – Object of God’s Tenderest Care

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. Eph. 2:21, 22.

The living church of God is individually a habitation of God through the Spirit, that man may become a well-built temple for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit of God, that the Lord Jesus Christ may dwell in his innermost being, ennobling and sanctifying his human nature by His divine attributes.

The church of Christ is to be in the world but not of the world. In calling His people together in church capacity, God designs that they shall form one Christian family and daily be fitting for membership in the family above.

God thus forms the believers in His Word in one body, that their influence may be a blessing to one another and to the world. Each member converted reveals a transformation of character, and he is strengthened and sustained by the courage and faith of the whole. The weakest saint, if he believes in Christ, is a member of Christ’s body; and if he lives in humble dependence upon God, he will become strong; for he has a right to all the privileges of a child of God.

The church is the object of God’s tenderest love and care. If the members will allow Him, He will reveal His character through them. He says to them, “Ye are the light of the world.” Those who walk and talk with God practice the gentleness of Christ. In their lives, forbearance, meekness, and self-restraint are united with holy earnestness and diligence. As they advance heavenward, the sharp, rough edges of character are worn off, and godliness is seen. The Holy Spirit, full of grace and power, works upon mind and heart.

Christ has made provision that His church shall be a transformed body illumined with the light of heaven, possessing the glory of Immanuel. It is His purpose that every Christian shall be surrounded with a spiritual atmosphere of light and peace.

There is no limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon the heart and lives a life wholly consecrated to God.

Chap. 278 – “The Apple of His Eye”

For thus saith the Lord of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye. Zech. 2:8.

The church of Christ, enfeebled and defective as it may be, is the only object on earth on which He bestows His supreme regard. . . . The Lord has a people, a chosen people, His church, to be His own, His own fortress, which He holds in a sin-stricken, revolted world.

The church is the property of God, and God constantly remembers her as she stands in the world, subject to the temptations of Satan. Christ has never forgotten the days of His humiliation. In passing from the scenes of His humiliation, Jesus has lost none of His humanity. He has the same tender, pitying love, and is ever touched with human woe. He ever bears in mind that He was a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. He forgets not His representative people who are striving to uphold His downtrodden law. He knows that the world that hated Him, hates them. Although Jesus Christ has passed into the heavens, there is still a living chain binding His believing ones to His own heart of infinite love. The most lowly and weak are bound by a chain of sympathy closely to His heart. He never forgets that He is our representative, that He bears our nature.

Jesus sees His true church on the earth, whose greatest ambition is to cooperate with Him in the grand work of saving souls. He hears their prayers, presented in contrition and power, and Omnipotence cannot resist their plea for the salvation of any tried, tempted member of Christ’s body. . . . Jesus ever liveth to make intercession for us. Through our Redeemer what blessings may not the true believer receive? The church, soon to enter upon her most severe conflict, will be the object most dear to God upon earth.

The confederacy of evil will be stirred with power from beneath, and Satan will cast all the reproach possible upon the chosen ones whom he cannot deceive and delude with his satanic inventions and falsehoods. But exalted “to be a Prince and a Saviour, . . .” (Acts 5:31), will Christ, our representative and head, close His heart, or withdraw His hand, or falsify His promise? No; never, never.

Skin care April 13, 2009

Cetaphil skin cleansers
Ego QV moisturisers
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula hand cream
Aquaphor petrolatum emollient for cracked/chafed skin/lips

Simple Scar Prevention Tips April 13, 2009

1. Open wounds – early saline wash to decontaminate and saline soaked gauze dressing to prevent drying out of tissues
2. Irrigate with chlorhexidine antiseptic, clean wound, achieve haemostasis and close appropriately with minimal tension (i.e. sutures)
3. Apply topical chlorhexidine to prevent infection and adhesive tape (Hypafix/Mefix) to reduce tension across wound
4. Apply antibiotic ointment as an emollient and to prevent infection
5. Once sutures are out and skin has closed over use an emollient (e.g. petrolatum/Aquaphor) until inflammation has subsided
6. Approximately 2-3 weeks later (skin has “settled” down) use silicone gel sheets (Cica-care) to minimise complications (not for an open wound). This needs to be done for at least 12 hours a day for up to 4-6 months.
7. After this period if there remains complications seek medical advice (consider topical Protopic/tacrolimus or retinoids or Aldara/imiquimod)
8. Avoid sun (UV) damage

Romans 6:23 April 5, 2009

The wage paid by sin is death; the gift given by God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord

New Perspective(s) on Paul March 1, 2009

Here’s a very brief summary of NT Wright and the New Perspective on Paul: http://www.hornes.org/theologia/travis-tamerius/n-t-wright-evangelical-theology

Look at the following verses in Galatians:

Gal 3:29
“If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s heirs, inheriting the promise”

Gal 3:16
“The promise wasn’t made to ‘seeds’, as in Abraham’s many genetic descendants, but to one ‘seed’. That ‘seed’ is Christ.”

Gal 3:28
“So there isn’t: Jews and Greeks, bondservants and freemen, men and women, because all of you are one in Christ.”

Gal 3:7
“It’s those who have faith who are Abraham’s heirs.”

The theme in Galatians 3 is: you’re not saved by virtue of being Jewish (symbolised by “having the law/Torah/nomos”), but by virtue of being in Christ by faith. The argument really isn’t whether the law (moral or ceremonial) still stands or has been abolished. Instead the emphasis is on unity in Christ – not pointing out distinctions (e.g. circumcised vs not) which are not important in Christ.

Similarly, it’s not by virtue of being Sabbatarians, or commandment-keepers, or baptised Christians, or vegetarians, or Adventists that we are saved. Not by virtue of identifying with any group. But by “pistis” – our identity in Christ – our faith in Christ, our faithfulness to Christ, or the faithfulness of Christ, or Christ’s faithfulness towards us. All renderings of the Greek “pistis” are meaningful.

Bottom line: do we have a relationship with God?

It’s interesting how the “New Perspectives on Paul” are much more compatible with Adventist notions of law, grace, faith and works.

God’s wise grace Eph 1:8 February 6, 2009

God abounded his grace to us in His wisdom and prudence.

God not only found the best way to save us. But I feel the real thrust of this verse is that saving us was a wise and prudent thing. To me, His actions in saving us vindicated His character, His leadership of the world.

Best Freeware Mass Mailer (Mailing List Mailer) January 21, 2009

http://www.kgpsoftware.com/massmail.htm

My Favourite Freeware Guitar Tuner January 16, 2009

APTuner http://www.aptuner.com/

More Good Freeware December 26, 2008

http://www.returnilvirtualsystem.com/rvspersonal.htm — steady state/virtualisation software
Evernote
FastStone Capture
Karen’s Replicator
URL Snooper

Gospel of Fear? A response to Crisis-mongering. December 23, 2008

The gospel is not a gospel of fear. Many Christians believe in the soon return of Christ. Many of them believe in a pre-Advent crisis on Earth. I am one of those people. But there are some who prey on a coming crisis to push an agenda (whether with innocence and sincerity or questionable motives). Such people have baptised many who in actuality do not know (or even want to know) God. Such people have convinced many to walk away from normative (not overtly sinful) lives, friends and family, to become missionaries or even join separatist groups hidden away in remote communes.

But the gospel is not a gospel of fear. The urgency with which we share the gospel and with which we accept the gospel should not be driven by a fear of either a coming earthly crisis or of God’s judgment itself.

The crisis we should be concerned about is a spiritual one. That crisis is in your heart, your psyche, your relationships, your family, your friends, your community. Oh how many friendships have I damaged by a thoughtless word or phrase? How many times have I hurt my family through neglect? What damage have I wrought in myself physically, emotionally and spiritually through a reckless life?

We are all in a crisis. One that is here now, and one that will last 70, maybe 100, years. One that affects our happiness and our ability to lead a fulfilled life. One that (if you believe it) will eventually determine your eternal destiny depending on how you respond.

Fortunately there is the gospel. The gospel that says that God loves you. He has never left you alone. And He can heal you and me. He can and will solve our crises, our little ones, our big ones, our spiritual one and yes even the future economic and military crises.

When the Gospel of “Peace” actually makes sense, and makes a difference in your life, your reaction is not to run away from anything, but rather to run towards. Towards the God who is the answer to your problems. And towards others who need to hear about the Answer to their crises.

Limited Atonement December 23, 2008

Limited atonement has been a subject of contention between Calvinist and Arminian poles of Protestant Christianity for centuries.

See this great summary article by David Larson:

http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/sabbath_school/2008/10/20/atonement_and_divine_initiative

(Another article by David Larson on the topic in the context of Des Ford’s biography: http://spectrummagazine.org/articles/column/2008/09/15/why_does_desmond_ford%E2%80%99s_biographer_lament_our_wesleyan_heritage)

Lorraine Boettner made an insightful comment which explains it something like this:

In the Calvinist view, the Arminian limits God’s power to save. If he chose to save all, He must be able to do so. If some will be lost, it must be that God’s grace does not apply to everybody. The Calvinist emphasises God’s sovereign power and His right to choose.

In the Arminian view, the Calvinist limits the extent to which God’s grace is offered. It must be that a loving God offers salvation to all. If not all are saved, it must be because we choose our destiny by our actions. The Arminian describes God’s grace as a gift to be freely received and emphasises our freedom to choose.

But the Bible story paints a picture which is a blend of both views, and is yet richer that each. Here we see a God who is all powerful (able to save all) and all gracious (offers freely to all). But His greatest strength of character is His willingness to seek not His own desires.

Here is a God who has done everything possible to persuade our hearts to change – including absorbing pain and suffering to the infinite degree. And yes His actions are all that is required to change hearts – the evidence is in the hearts that have already been changed. He is all-powerful and His actions are all-powerful. And when He is rejected, His response is not of retaliation or reproach; it is of regret and relentless pursuit.

Best File Indexer December 16, 2008

http://www.indexyourfiles.com/

Book Search December 16, 2008

http://www.booko.com.au/ calculates the full price (including shipping) of books from various online sellers to Australia.

This search includes second-hand books:

http://www.alldiscountbooks.net/go/html/default/home.htm

Search Australian Used Books

http://www.anzaab.com

Real-time File Transfer Via Browser December 12, 2008

http://fileai.com/

http://jetbytes.com/

Online Photoshop December 12, 2008

http://www.sumo.fi/products/sumopaint/index.php?id=0

Acts 4:29 December 9, 2008

“Dear Lord… enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.”

Comprehending the love of the Father that does not change December 7, 2008

Sheridan Voysey in his Open House interview today spoke with William P. Young, the author of the novel “The Shack.” (Note, it’s a novel not a theological work.) Paul Young made the comment that God is the Prodigal Father (of Luke 15). The status of his sons was never in doubt. They were always sons. Nothing they could do could change that. But at different times in the story, the sons did not “comprehend the love of the Father.”

Even before He made the world, God loved us and determined to make us holy in Christ. We are without fault in his eyes. God made the decision in advance that we would be his children and will never change his mind.
(Paraphrased from Ephesians 1:4-5)

http://www.theopenhouse.net.au/2008/12/explore_the_shack_a_little_fur.html

Nothing more invincible November 12, 2008

“Despondency may shake the most heroic faith and weaken the most steadfast will. But God understands, and He still pities and loves. He reads the motives and the purposes of the heart. To wait patiently, to trust when everything looks dark… Heaven will not fail them in their day of adversity.

Nothing is apparently more helpless, yet really more invincible, than the soul that feels its nothingness and relies wholly on God.” (PK 174-5)

“God would send every angel in heaven to the aid of such a one, rather than allow him to be overcome.” (7T 17)

“By prayer, by the study of His word, by faith in His abiding presence, the weakest of human beings may live in contact with the living Christ, and He will hold them by a hand that will never let go.” (MH 182)

Theodicy November 9, 2008

How can there be a good God if there is such a bad world?
Either God is not all powerful, or He is not good, or there is no god.

1 Cor 13 — Love suffers long

“If love is the end, freedom must be the means to that end.” (Gregory A Boyd)

Matt 13:28 — An enemy has done this

How long?
“Few give thought to the suffering that sin has caused our Creator. All heaven suffered in Christ’s agony; but the suffering did not begin or end with His manifestation in humanity. The cross is a revelation to our dull senses of the pain that, from its very inception, sin has brought to the heart of God… As the ‘whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together’ (Romans 8:22), the heart of the infinite Father is pained in sympathy.” (Education 263)

He shall wipe every tear from their eyes… and there shall be no more pain (Revelation 21:4)

PRAYING November 8, 2008

Luke 11:1-13 — Jesus Teaches How To Pray

PETITION — our DAILY bread – he fulfills our needs as we need them, not months in advance, that’s how we know he is working miracles; we need to ASK so that we KNOW He GIVES – if we received without the asking, could it be that it would just have happened anyway? pray specifically and the answer to prayer will be obvious.
REPENTANCE
ADORATION
YIELDING — slow down to hear GOD’S AGENDA, not our will but the Father’s will be done
INTERCESSION — praying with GOD’S EYES
NAME OF JESUS — John 14:13-14;15:16;16:23-27. Mark 16:17.
GRATITUDE — each promise of God is as if it has already been done. there is no if. it is a sure thing. faith is an assurance of things that you don’t currently see, but certainly will.

Luke 11:5-13
Pray not for yourself, but so others may benefit.
(Amazon river vs Dead sea)
Pray persistently. Not because God does not hear, but a gift given after a great deal of persistence is valued much more.

James 4:2
You lust after it. You kill for it. You desire it. You fight and carry on for it. Yet you will not have it. Because you do not ask.

What’s in a question? October 5, 2008

i) The where and when of the question: the context of the question.
ii) Why is the question important?
iii) How should we approach answering the question?
iv) What is/are the (best/possible) answer(s)?

Adventist Resources October 5, 2008

http://maranathamedia.com

A 17th Century Nun’s Prayer October 5, 2008

Lord thou knowest better than I know myself that I am growing older and will someday be old. Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion.

Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs. Make me thoughtful but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom it seems a pity not to use it all, but thou knowest Lord that I want a few friends at the end.

Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details, give me wings to get to the point. Seal my lips on my aches and pains. They are increasing and the lover of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by. I dare not ask for grace enough to enjoy the tales of others’ pains, but help me to endure them with patience.

I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and a lessening cocksureness when my memory seems to clash with the memories of others. Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken.

Keep me reasonably sweet; I do not want to be a saint – some of them are so hard to live with – but a sour old person is one of the crowning works of the devil. Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places, and talents in unexpected people. And, give me O Lord, the grace to tell them so.

Amen.

Destiny October 5, 2008

Before the world was made, the stars above displayed,
A loving God had made a great design.
Before the planets flew, and earth came into view,
Their forms were fashioned in the Master’s mind.
Now we can see that from eternity,
His perfect wisdom carried out a plan,
And we are all a part of what was in His heart,
The moment when He first created man.

The mountains and the leas, the deserts and the seas,
Were laid with utmost care from pole to pole.
And in my heart I know, it surely must be so,
He has a plan and pattern for my soul.
Why am I here, the reason is so clear,
He made me and He claimed this life of mine.
We’re more than just a slave,
Who’s heading for the grave,
My destiny is in His will divine.

How Does the Cross Save? October 3, 2008

The matchless love of God for a world that did not love Him! The thought has a subduing power upon the soul and brings the mind into captivity to the will of God. The more we study the divine character in the light of the cross, the more we see mercy, tenderness, and forgiveness blended with equity and justice, and the more clearly we discern innumerable evidences of a love that is infinite and a tender pity surpassing a mother’s yearning sympathy for her wayward child.

Steps to Christ 15

Some thoughts September 2, 2008

Confidence in God alone.
Embrace uncertainty. Certainty is an illusion.
Think and choose wisely. But do not allow “thinking” to be an excuse for indecision.
Just do it. And don’t be afraid to walk away from your mistakes.

What do we give up? August 16, 2008

Luke 18 speaks about a rich young ruler who apparently had everything he needed in this world. But then why did he come to find Jesus? What must I do to get eternal life? He asked, not knowing that the whole point to eternal life is knowing God (John 17:3). He went away sad because somehow the cost for knowing God was too great. Oh if only he simply came and followed as Jesus was inviting him to.

After all… “But what do we give up, when we give all? A sin-polluted heart, for Jesus to purify, to cleanse by His own blood, and to save by His matchless love. And yet men think it hard to give up all! I am ashamed to hear it spoken of, ashamed to write it.” (Steps to Christ p.46)

Genesis 3 Satan insinuated that if we really wanted freedom to live a great life, we need to leave God. God is an unnecessary distraction. No, moreover, God is holding us back from a life worth living. Our first parents bought into that lie and ate the fruit.

Oh but the heart is deceitful above all things (Jer 17:9), we are “corrupt because our lusts deceive us” (Eph 4:22). Really all we’re giving up is that. Are we really so deceived to think we are sacrificing anything of value to gain a relationship with God?!

Luke 18:30 Jesus promises that if we would give up our “sin-polluted heart” we will receive much more in this PRESENT life! Eternal life is not just in the future. It is right now.
Eph 3:8 Which is why I want to preach the “unsearchable riches of Christ”

You want to experience a life that is overflowing with fullness? Know God.

Adventist Stereotypes July 19, 2008

An excellent description of the major theological groupings of Seventh-day Adventists by NightEternal (http://christianforums.com/member.php?u=185580)

LIBERAL ADVENTISTS: This group is mostly centralized in southern California, but they can be found almost anywhere in the world. These are Adventists who have accepted the liberal Christian concepts where just about anything goes. Do not hold to literal interpretations of Scripture from Genesis through the Gospels as well as the remainder of the New Testament. Scripture is regarded as a collection of myths or stories and historical exaggerations used to teach moral lessons. Some may hold other Gnostic ancient books as on the same level of importance as the Bible. They do not believe in the literal creation account, world-wide flood, or miracles, including the resurrection of Jesus. Many have accepted evolution in some form into thier belief systems. Beliefs can range from no after-life to Universalism. Homosexuality is accepted as another lifestyle alternative and impulse that God created people with. Ellen White means nothing to them and they have all but discarded most of the distinctive fundamentals as well as orthodox Christian fundamentals. They are often ‘cultural’ Adventists who still enjoy the oppourtunity to discuss with others philosophical ideas concerning the Sabbath. They may enjoy church services of various kinds or none at all, from high church to celebrationn services. Will often call themselves Christian Agnostics or Agnostic Christians. In fact, the only SDA feature many liberal Adventists have retained is the Sabbath. Almost all attend movies of any sort, wear jewelry, eat meat, drink coffee and caffeinated pops, some partake of unclean foods, many drink alcoholic wine, especially in the areas of California where vineyards are found. Women’s ordination has never been a question and the SCC implemented it years ago against the official stand of the conference.

Key Adventist Figures: Steve Daily

PROGRESSIVE ADVENTISTS: Highly regard science, logic, reason and the historical-critical method. Will adopt any modern means of Biblical interpretation available. Want to do away with many of the fundamentals, especially the IJ/1844/Heavenly sanctuary doctrines. Believe Ellen White is a woman of her times whose works may contain inspirational material that may be used in a pastoral way. Do not believe she has doctrinal authourity. Some hold to a literal creation account, world-wide flood and miracles. Others see the Genesis story as non-literal and consider other methods of creation possible. The post-modern movement can also be traced to this group. In understanding post-modern philosophy, they desire to have the church be relevant in the present time and do not regard the history and legacy of the Adventist pioneers as the embodiment of religious truth. Some have adopted the views of the moral influence/larger view Adventists and rejected penal, legal atonemt. Others hold to such atonement theories as Christus Victor, Federal Head and Recapitulation. There may be an amalgam of several atonement theories. A credo would probably be reason over tradition. Spreading like wildfire in many European countries.

Key Adventist Figures: Riendeer Bruinsma, Alden Thompson, Richard Rice, Fritz Guy, John McLarty (Adventist Today), Spectrum Magazine

MORAL INFLUENCE/LARGER VIEW ADVENTISTS: Also found mostly in Southern California/Loma Linda area, this group denies that God will destroy the wicked in the end. They believe that sin itself will consume them without any intervention on God’s part. Absolutely deny legal/forensic/penal atonement. Heavy emphasis on the love and mercy of Christ to the exclusion of His anger and justice. Revere Ellen White, but they only pick and choose that which reflects thier unique views. Heavily influenced by the views of Peter Abelard. You can find many of them on the website Heavenly Sanctuary.

Key Figures: Graham Maxwell (Pine Knoll), Dan Smith, Ty Gibson (Light Bearers), Michael Klute.

EVANGELICAL ADVENTISTS: Champions of Reformation justification by faith and the closest segment to the positions of Luther and the reformers. Bitterly fight against sinless perfection/final generation theology and the belief in the sinful nature of Christ. Consider both full-blown heresy. The most user-friendly Adventism and the one subgroup that presents the most acceptable Adventist face to mainline Protestantism. Believe the atonement was completed at the cross. Stand firmly behind Questions On Doctrine as representative of balanced Adventist thought. Have realistic views of inspiration and completely reject verbal inspiration for both the Bible and Ellen White. Ardent holders to thought inspiration. Ellen White highly regarded, but do not believe she has doctrinal authourity and believe she is subject to the New Testament apostles. Some Evangelical Adventists have abandoned EGW, but not all. Completely reject traditional understanding of the IJ as detrimental to assurance of salvation. Hold to pre-Advent judgment where the salvation of God’s people is not under question. Very firm and uncompromising in thier opposition to Rome. Worship services are predominately contemporary with CCM as well as heavily influenced by Willow Creek seeker-services.

Key Figures: George Knight, Graeme Bradford, Hans LaRondelle, H.M.S. Richards Sr. (Voice Of Prophecy), Raymond Cottrell, Desmond Ford (Good News Unlimited), Edward Heppenstall, Frank Phillips

MODERATE ADVENTISTS: The largest subgroup by far, this constitutes the majority in the pews. Standard Adventist beliefs, hold to the fundamentals. Avoids either extreme and and tries to be balanced. High regard for Ellen white but do not hold to verbal inspiration nor elevate her above the Bible. Mainline believers who support official church mission ardently. Stay very close to offical GC policy, mandate and standard Adventist worldview.

Key Figures: Mark Finley, Dwight Nelson, Keavin Hayden, Marvin Moore, Roy Adams, Ed Christian, Morris Venden, Jack Sequeira (Vineyard Ministries), Shawn Boonstra (It Is Written), Steven Mosley, Steve Wohlberg, Lonnie Melashenko (Voice Of Prophecy), George Vandeman (Voice Of Prophecy)

CONSERVATIVE/TRADITIONAL ADVENTISTS: Close to moderate Adventists, but with a little more lean to the right. Bitterly oppose women’s ordination, CCM, meat-eating, justification by faith as taught by Luther. Very high regard for Ellen White, borderline verbal inspirationists. Revere the law and the Ten Commandments and have sinless perfection tendencies. Many are heavily involved in Jesuit/Catholic/Masonic conspiracy theories. Staunch defenders of the 28 fundamentals and lovers of pioneer, 1800′s style Adventism. Major representation in third world countries such as Africa and South America.

Key Figures: William Johnsson, Cifford Goldstein, Doug Batchelor (Amazing Facts), Sam Bacchiocchi (Biblical Perspectives), Sam Koranteng Pipim, Herbert Douglass, Ed Reid, Kenneth Cox, Richard O’Ffill (Revival Sermons), Danny Shelton (3 ABN), Walter Veith (Amazing Discoveries), Jan Marcussen, David Asscherick, Leo Schriven, Bill Tucker (The Quiet Hour), Robert Weiland and Donald Short (The 1888 Message Committee), C.D. Brooks

ULTRA-CONSERVATIVE/TRADITIONAL ADVENTISTS: Historical Adventists who represent the far right. Believe in the sinful nature of Christ, righteousness by works, have a hatred for the Reformation gospel. Sinless perfectionists who believe Christ merely set the example we can follow until we reach the condition of Adam before the fall-all before glorification, which they believe only changes the physical and nothing else. Bitterly oppose Questions On Doctrine, consider it the most hated book ever published in Adventism. Heavy emphasis on IJ, traditional style and making oneself worthy to pass inspection by Jesus. Strict diet reform emphasis, all are vegetarian, most are vegan. Borderline deificaiton of Ellen white, verbal inspirationist leanings. Most regard EGW as equal to the Bible in authourity and the final say in all matters not addressed in Scripture. Many can be found on such websites as Revival Sermons, Great Controversy, Adventist Affirm, SDA Defend, Temcat’s House

Key Figures: M.L. Andreason, Kevin Paulson, Larry Kirkpatrick, Joe Crews, Vance farrell, Dennis Priebe, Stephen Lewis

EXTREMIST ULTRA-CONSERVATIVE TRADITIONAL ADVENTISTS/FFSHOOTS/INDEPENDENT MINISTRIES: About as far right you can go in Adventism. The most disturbing, frightening Adventism available. Ultra-strict, unyeilding dress reform, diet reform, mind reform, any reform you can think of. Hyper-vegan, believe diet is a salvation issue and meat-eaters are lost. Heavy, extreme emphasis on historic Adventism and the pioneers. Agenda to purify the Adventist church and get back to 1800 style Adventism. Shepherd’s Rod believe they will be the instruments of destruction God will use to cleanse the camp of modern-day Adventism at some point in the future. Have thier own communes, schools, churches, camp meetings, etc. Deify Ellen White, all but have included her in the Biblical canon. Fringe groups who believe that only a literal 144,000 are going through to the end. Hatred for corporate Adventism and conference structure. Believe the GC is the seat of the beast, riddled with Jesuit infiltrators. Hatred for any modern expressions of Adventism, believe they are the only true Adventists and the rest are lost. All believe the mainline church is in apostasy and is fallen Babylon, and so a call for as many as possible to come out is needed. Many use cultish fear-tactics and brainwashing to recruit and retain thier followers.

Key Groups/Figures: Shepherd’s Rod (Victor Houteff), Branch Davidians, SDA Reform, Remnant Of The Remnant, Our Firm Foundation/Hope International (Ralph Larson), Hartland Institute (Colin and Russell Standish)

A positive outlook June 18, 2008

Two years ago, I wrote a list of simple truisms. Since then I have come a long way psychologically and emotionally. Here are a few more things I’ve learned about living life to the full.

1. Confidence is just learning not to feel insecure. Insecurity is a natural feeling that we all get from time to time. But, you can choose not to feel insecure (or challenge the feeling) about a situation. It doesn’t mean you have to be good at something or that the outcome must necessarily be pleasant. Your security should not depend on your performance. (What baby sips milk slowly because it is worried that mother would think it greedy?) So next time you walk into a situation that makes you feel small, say I’m going to do it anyway! The more you do, the more confidence you will build.

2. Savour and enjoy everything. If you’re not “in the moment” then get out of there. Even unpleasant things have some positive aspect to focus your thoughts on. At the very least, you can think about what the unpleasant things will allow you to achieve (or how you are serving God). If you really can’t think of anything enjoyable about a situation, you need to get out.

3. Take control of your life. Depression comes partially from the feeling that you can’t change anything. If you realise that you always have a choice (they might not be the choices you most want) and can make a difference to your life (no matter how small), that is the first step to making the changes you need. And when things work out, take credit for it (even if it was mainly down to luck). Treat yourself with a reward.

4. See life as full of opportunities. There are so many things you can do with your time and resources. Granted you probably aren’t interested in most of those options, but there are so many opportunities that you can’t seriously be sitting down doing nothing!

5. Reframe challenges as activities (or at least learning experiences). Some people see obstacle courses as playgrounds; others see it as a torture device. When you’re faced with a difficult situation, make it fun or interesting.

6. Many things in life just don’t matter. Don’t fight every battle. Don’t expect things to have to be a certain way. Don’t let yourself be driven by others’ expectations of you. Above all, don’t expect that you always need to perform at your best. All champions will lose once in a while. Sometimes you just need to let things just “be”.

Get Youtube Video Bookmarklet June 5, 2008

http://googlesystem.blogspot.com/2008/04/download-youtube-videos-as-mp4-files.html

Apps Without Install May 23, 2008

http://www.regmagik.com/

http://gpass1.com/gpass/

Fping
Radmin’s Advanced Port Scanner (has an installer which is really just an unpacker – doesn’t need permission)

http://sourceforge.net/projects/console/

Travel Advice May 19, 2008

GETTING MONEY
Read more: http://www.choice.com.au/viewArticle.aspx?id=105657&catId=100210&tid=100008 and http://forums.vogue.com.au/showthread.php?t=286234

1. Credit card — usually result in the cheapest total fees
Some credit cards offer no fees for overseas ATM withdrawals: e.g. Wizard Clear Advantage (the only one I know on the Aussie market)

http://www.wizard.com.au/creditcards/task.aspx?id=580

As long as you keep a credit balance, you can use your card as a debit card and make cash withdrawals without paying interest (unlike a cash advance).
Always bring more than one credit card as they may not all work. Use one credit card as a credit card… and use the other as a debit card.

2. Debit (“prepaid”) card in the currency in question — www.anzfx.com or Travelex Cash Passport via NAB or Australia Post — less commissions and better rate than at the Airport Travelex Bureau. However, these rates are usually worse than interbank rate or the ones used by Mastercard/Visa (usually ~2% more than interbank wholesale rates, see http://www.oanda.com/convert/fxhistory).

3. Use your local ATM card via Cirrus/Maestro — although there will be fees per withdrawal, so make sure you make large value withdrawals

4. American Express Travelers Cheques via Banks or Australia Post — less commissions and better rate than via bureaus

COMMUNICATION
Get a global prepaid GSM SIM card
Get a global phone-card (e.g. Ekit)

FLIGHTS AND HOTELS
Book cheap flights with zuji.com or opodo or adioso or kayak.com or LastMinuteTravel.com, etc.
Book hotels after checking with tripadvisor.com
Use a service like wotif.com to compare hotel prices
Either stay in the middle of the downtown city for easy access to sites by foot or (more preferably) get a good cheaper hotel ~30 minutes out of town but close to public transport (Metro, Bus, etc.)

A Place for Duty? April 5, 2008

God doesn’t want dutiful obedience, he wants passionate obedience.

Eugene O’Neill July 3, 2007

“Man is born broken. He lives by mending. The grace of God is glue.”

Guitar Tuner Online May 2, 2007

http://www.gieson.com/Library/projects/utilities/tuner/

http://www.justinguitar.com/html/YouTube_html/youtube_lessons.html

http://www.6-string-videos.com/youtube/

https://www.newlearningvision.com/

Greg Laurie – New Beginning January 19, 2007

http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/A_New_Beginning/archives.asp

Nature Music Videos November 11, 2006

http://www.edgemontvideo.com/

Modify your browser’s User Agent String/ID November 2, 2006

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User_agent
www.useragentstring.com

Dream Racquets August 11, 2006

Tennis: Head Flexpoint Radical Tour
Squash: Prince O3 Tour

Audio Compression July 28, 2006

Really RareWares http://www.rjamorim.com/rrw/
RareWares http://rarewares.org
Hydrogen Audio http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/

Sacrifices July 21, 2006

Sacrifices are not for God, they are for us. The were not meant to change the heart of God, but to change us. That applies to Jesus’ death too.

Social Bookmarking July 20, 2006

http://www.diigo.com/

I also use… del.icio.us and furl

Email a copy of a webpage July 20, 2006

http://toread.cc/

Send Large Files July 16, 2006

No Registration Required:

http://www.freefileupload.net/

http://www.mytempdir.com/

John Wesley Calmly Considers Predestination July 13, 2006

“But could they (those without specific saving knowledge as thought to be the case by men) even thus have escaped from sin? Not without that grace which you (the predestinationist) suppose God had absolutely determined never to give them. And yet you suppose him to send them into eternal fire, for not escaping from sin! that is, in plain terms, for not having that grace which God had decreed they should never have! O strange justice! What a picture do you draw of the Judge of all the earth!”

The Works of Wesley, vol.10 page 221 — Predestination Calmly Considered

The Asian Aid story — what an inspiration July 4, 2006

“A generous man will prosper, he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” ( Proverbs 11:25 )

http://www.asianaid.org.au/aboutus.asp

You can teach an infant to read! … and do maths June 27, 2006

http://www.yourbabycanread.com.au

http://www.yourbabycanread.com

Dr Robert C. Titzer. And it really works as far as I have seen.

Maths (Glenn Doman):

http://www.iahp.org/How_To.228.0.html

http://www.gentlerevolution.com/

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0895295970/

But in my opinion, it’s not a good idea to (1) “over-stress” your children and (2) turn them into driven, competitive, “i need to be better than everyone else” type people. Although I admit, why do we wait until our kids are ~7 (when their minds are no longer so plastic and malleable and still developing) before we teach them? Start teaching your kids now, but there are much more important things to teach them: good emotional health, social skills, physical health and logical/common-sense thinking. But that’s just my opinion.

Really Good Powerpoint June 24, 2006

http://presentationzen.blogs.com/presentationzen/

http://presentationzen.blogs.com/presentationzen/2005/11/the_zen_estheti.html

“One of the things I learned about in the formative stages of my career was public speaking. I learned by watching lots of presentations, and one thing I figured out early on is that most CFO-level speakers — particularly CEOs, particularly male CEOs—really suck as speakers. They’re boring; they’re long; they wander around. I saw speech after speech, and I discovered that if there’s anything worse than a speaker who sucks, it’s a speaker who sucks and you have no idea how much longer he or she is going to suck. That’s a horrible feeling.

To prevent you from getting that feeling, I’ve developed a Top 10 format. All of my speeches are in Top 10 format, because if you think I suck, I at least want you to be able to track my progress through the speech so that you know approximately know how much longer I’m going to suck.”

– Guy Kawasaki

http://www.sethgodin.com/freeprize/reallybad-1.pdf

Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code June 21, 2006

Where did he get his ideas?
Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh and Henry Lincoln
Lynn Picknett and Clive Prince

Want to know the facts? Read these pseudohistorical books and then read the corresponding books by conventional mainstream historians. Then decide what we know to be true, what is probably true, what we know to be false, what is probably false, what we still cannot draw conclusions about, and what we will never know.

One of the most dangerous implications of Dan Brown’s religious viewpoint:
http://www.cbn.com/special/DaVinciCode/Mangalwadi_ReligiousSex.aspx
http://www.vishalmangalwadi.com/tsunami.pdf

Does this perspective really uplift women as Dan Brown claims?

“Those unfamiliar with the rituals of ‘sacred sex’ may not realize that the novel alleges that Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples was a sexual ritual: the ‘Cup’ (Chalice) that Jesus offered to his disciples was the vagina of Mary Magdalene.”

This concept of ‘sacred sex’ even made a cameo in the movie as the event which estranged Sophie Neveu from Saunière.

(Disclaimer: I have a Western-education and Christian religious background, but in all fairness and trying to be unbiased) I think this thought is repugnant. How could what is practically a gang-bang be honourable to the fairer sex? Dan Brown is basically teaching a sexually exploitative pagan philosophy by invoking the authority of Jesus (albeit a Gnostic version of Jesus). How can he turn around and criticise the church (specifically Middle-Age Catholicism) for discriminating against women? Having said that, he has written an engaging story; too bad he had to base it on an alternative history which is inaccurate, unfaithful to the evidence, in some places downright fraudulent and ultimately debasing.

In conclusion I ask the question: why after reading this book and/or watching the movie are we inclined to (1) reject mainstream Christian beliefs and (2) accept Dan Brown’s beliefs? The intelligent, sincere and thoughful person would in my opinion reject Dan Brown’s conjectures, suggestions and innuendo simply because it doesn’t make sense: Even if Jesus married Mary Magdelene, that doesn’t mean there are descendants in a special “holy blood line” today – after all isn’t Brown trying to assert that Jesus was just an ordinary man, anyway? And how in the world does their alleged marriage prove/support/justify ‘sacred sex’ or paganism or Gnosticism or any religion for that matter? If I married someone does it mean I get to make some random religion true?)

I think we’re suckers for good yarns, and religion as a whole is full of them. There are more fraudulent religious theorists (including many within mainstream Christianity) than cheating used-car salesmen. Never give anything your trust without evidence. Be aware of your assumptions. Be on guard when anyone comes to you with “the truth”.

Screenshots of Your Website June 21, 2006

on different browsers

browsershots.org

http://www.danvine.com/icapture/

http://www.snugtech.com/safaritest/

NRMA useful links June 11, 2006

http://www.mynrma.com.au/saferroads/links.asp

Free Change Detection and Email Me Websites June 9, 2006

www.changedetection.com
watchthatpage.com
www.changedetect.com
www.trackengine.com

CSS only drop-down menu June 9, 2006

http://www.cssplay.co.uk/menus/final_drop.html

http://www.cssplay.co.uk/menus/drop_examples.html

Free Remote File Access June 5, 2006

DOWNLOAD ONLY (use a tiny Web HTTP:80 Server – in order of my preference)

http://www.ritlabs.com/tinyweb/

http://www.aprelium.com/

http://www.lighttpd.net/

http://nullhttpd.sourceforge.net/httpd/

http://www.acme.com/software/thttpd/

UPLOAD + DOWNLOAD
—————–

Web Browser-Based (HTTP/HTTPS)
http://ecosmear.com/relay/ (perl/PHP/AJAX) — the best! and newest
http://www.muquit.com/muquit/software/upload_pl/upload_pl.html (perl upload only)
http://barracudaserver.com/examples/BarracudaDrive/ (with embedded HTTP server)
http://www.efileman.de/ (perl)
http://wefis.sourceforge.net/ (perl/AJAX)
http://encodable.com/filechucker/ (perl/AJAX) — no longer free
http://uber-uploader.sourceforge.net (PHP/AJAX)
http://tomas.epineer.se/tesupload/ (PHP/AJAX)
http://sean.treadway.info/demo/upload/ (ruby/AJAX)
http://sourceforge.net/projects/ifolder/ (PHP)
http://file.sourceforge.net/ (PHP)
http://quixplorer.sourceforge.net/ (PHP)
http://yafm.sourceforge.net/ 2004 (PHP)
http://weeblefm.sourceforge.net/ 2004 (PHP)
http://onedotoh.sourceforge.net/ 2003 (PHP)
http://www.gossamer-threads.com/scripts/fileman/ 2002 (perl script)

FTP/SFTP/SCP

http://winscp.net/

http://www.whitsoftdev.com/slimftpd/

Proprietary Software
http://www.getbymail.com/ (need to install software on remote client)

P2P Active File Transfer (needs action at both computers)

http://www.whitsoftdev.com/ssft/

System Info June 5, 2006

http://www3.sympatico.ca/gtopala/siw_download.html

Free Online Crypto Course June 4, 2006

http://www.xml-dev.com/blog/index.php?action=viewtopic&id=225

NTP – time synchronisation May 31, 2006

oneguycoding.com/automachron/

alternative:

http://www.thinkman.com/dimension4/index.htm

clocks:

http://ricolmer.actuary.pl/index_en.html

http://www.alfaclock.com/

http://www.geocities.com/jakemb21/

What Sin Does May 26, 2006

Beverly Kirby, Conversations About God Mailing List May 9, 2006

http://www.pineknoll.org/cag/volume9/121.txt

With sin there is a mental and physical change. Sin does terrible thing to us. It is not just the act itself, the consequence of sin – the change of what we were originally created to be.

After Satan Rebelled: “Satan stood in amazement at his new condition.His happiness was gone…..Now all seemed changed, He was gloomy, despairing. strife, discord, and bitter recrimination were among them…Previous to their rebellion these things had been unknown in heaven. Satan now beheld the terrible _ results_ of his rebellion.”

These things mankind has inherited.

“Satan felt the wretchedness, the since of guilt, disappointment. The loss he had sustained seemed to much to be borne….a great change in his disposition., he manifested malice, increased hatred and fiery vehemence.

MORE THAN FORGIVENESS: Satan trembled as he views his work….His mighty frame shook as with a tempest. an angel from heaven was passing. He called him and asked for an interview with Christ. This was granted him. He then related to the Son of God that he repented of his rebellion and wished again the favor of God. He was willing to take the place God had previously assigned him, and be under His wise command. Christ wept at Satan’s woe but told him, as the mind of God, that he could never be received into heaven…..The seeds of rebellion were still within him….he had hopelessly
ruined not only himself but the host of angels also.

For Satan there was no remedy – it was not a matter of forgiveness. “He had hopelessly ruined not only himself but the host of angels also…”SR 26

“It would not have been safe to suffer any who united with Satan in his rebellion to continue to occupy heaven. They had learned the lesson of genuine rebellion against the unchangeable law of God, love) AND THIS IS INCURABLE.” SR 17

“The angels warned him what must be the CONSEQUENCES if he persisted.”" SR 16

(Story of Redemption: first three chapters)

We need a Physician saying “Healed” – not a court room written “Pardon”.

———————————————————————-

I have heard many times and read several times that we were all born “condemned” because of sin…. this I don’t believe.

It was not by choice that we were born. I don’t believe God says, “Well, here is another little one that I condemn!”

I believe we were born “brain damaged” – “sin damaged” “sin scarred “- not condemned. All our thought, reason, choices, worship, and selfishness happens in the brain. We will be ‘brain dead’ if we do not seek the Physician for healing.

Because of sin, Adam’s and Eve’s distrust of God and their fall, this caused their children to inherit the sin damage of selfishness and distrust.Born in sin, separated from God something happened in our brain/mind that was contrary to the original design of creation to cause us to be born “brain damaged” and so it has been inherited by all..

If you are born condemned you need to be acquitted – a legal act, justified for fear of retribution. If you are born with brain damage you need to be healed – a loving act, put back to the original design, a righteous act of healing the damage done.

“It is a law of the mind that it gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon which it is trained to dwell. If occupied with commonplace matter only, it will become dwarfed and enfeebled. if never required to grapple with difficult problems, it will after a time almost lost the power of growth. As an educating power the Bible is without a rival. In the word of God the mind finds subject for the deepest thought, the loftiest aspiration.” PP 596

“The brain nerves that connect with the whole system are the medium through which heaven communicated with man and affects the inmost life. Whatever hinders the circulation of the electric current in the nervous system, thus weakening the vital powers and lessen mental susceptibility, makes it more difficult to arouse the moral nature.” ED 209 Vol. 1 Mind character, & Personality

We have heard many stories telling us of the heartache we bring to God when we sin. We need more study of what sin actually does to us. This is what breaks the heart of God – what we are doing to ourselves. The unpardonable sin is that our minds/hearts are so sin-scarred that there is no remedy – not even from God. and He cries “Why? Why? Why will you die?

If you have any quotes or comments regarding what sin actually does to us, (not the remedy), I would like to hear them…

The Promise of God (Galatians 5:22-3) May 19, 2006

God the Holy Spirit accomplishes all that He can in your life so that you will truly love others, and be filled with a deeply-rooted joy, to give you an enduring inner peace that will allow you to stand steadfast in the face of any suffering, hardship or adversity. You will be a kind and gentle spirit, full of goodness – in your thoughts and actions – gracious always and to everyone, being faithful to and having faith in others – you will never doubt. Only when God has taken charge over your heart, will you truly have charge (command/direction) over your life.

There is nothing (no law, no human) that could ever condemn you.

Learning Assembly, Reverse Engineering May 17, 2006

http://community.reverse-engineering.net/viewtopic.php?t=4605

http://win32assembly.online.fr/

http://crackmes.de/

http://www.learn2crack.com/Cracking4Newbies-FAQ.htm

http://maven.smith.edu/~thiebaut/ArtOfAssembly/artofasm.html

http://webster.cs.ucr.edu/

http://www.drpaulcarter.com/pcasm/

http://www.woodmann.com/crackz/

Coolest Bookmarklet Ever May 16, 2006

http://mrclay.org/index.php/2006/04/23/mypage-bookmarklet/

Allows you to edit a page before printing. Cross-browser.

Christian Art May 5, 2006

* http://www.hasilvestre.org.br/advir/imagens/GoldSat1/index.htm
* http://www.goodsalt.com — Lars Justinen

http://www.ebibleteacher.com

http://kids.christianpost.com/activities/bible1/index2.htm

Who gets the Holy Spirit? May 5, 2006

Acts 5:32
We are God’s witnesses that these things occurred; and the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those that OBEY him, is also evidence.

God gives the Holy Spirit to those who are willing to listen to the Spirit and do what He instructs them to do.

Hebrews 4:15-17 May 5, 2006

“For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tried in every way like we are, yet never sinned. Let us, then, come close with joyful boldness to the “throne of grace”, where we may receive mercy, and find grace to help us in our times of need.”

Our “Chief Counsel” (advocate) in heaven feels our desperation, because he too has been afflicted with trials in every way, just like we are; and yet He never sinned. So we, in our helplessness, should be encouraged; and be drawn, by his tenderness towards us and sympathy for us, to God’s “throne of grace” with the sure knowledge that we will recieve all the mercy and grace we require in all our times of need.

Cancer Guidelines May 2, 2006

http://www.cancer.org.au/content.cfm?randid=408243

Hospital protocols and consent May 2, 2006

http://www.health.qld.gov.au/informedconsent/formsindex.asp

Cool Concept! April 24, 2006

http://www.scanr.com/

Scan copy or fax with your camera phone or digital camera.

Compression Tests April 22, 2006

STARS OF THE SHOW
Maximum Compression http://www.maximumcompression.com/
PAQ Matt Mahoney http://www.cs.fit.edu/~mmahoney/compression/
EmilCont Berto http://www.freewebs.com/emilcont/
Practical http://www.elis.ugent.be/~wheirman/compression/
Archive Compression Tests http://compression.ca/ (last updated 12 May 2002)

OTHERS
Compression Project (Ru) http://compression.graphicon.ru/ybs/ http://www.compression.ru/artest/index_e.html
Dog http://members.optushome.com.au/dogg01/index.htm
GIMP http://studwww.ugent.be/~jdebock/gimp_source_compression_test.htm
PE http://pect.y11.net/ http://pect.atspace.com/

MORE LINKS

http://www.maximumcompression.com/benchmarks/benchmarks.php

*Squeeze Chart

Parity Volume Set Archives April 22, 2006

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parchive

http://www.quickpar.org.uk/index.htm

http://www.ice-graphics.com/ICEECC/IndexE.html

True Love April 10, 2006

Only when you do not need anyone else. When you can be joyful just because God loves you. Only then can you feel needed by someone else. Only then can you love others and bring joy to their lives.

Send Email April 6, 2006

From the web without login or registration…

THE BEST

http://www.mytrashmail.com/anonymous_email.aspx

* mytrashmail.com has many cool features – simply the best!

OTHERS:

http://www.mailfreeonline.com/

READ EMAIL FROM ANY ACCOUNT

http://www.mail2web.com/

Competition April 4, 2006

“There are two kinds of people: Those who do the work and those who take the credit. Try to be in the first group because there is less competition there.” — Indira Gandhi

“Focus on competition has always been a formula for mediocrity.” — Daniel Burrus

“You have no control over what the other guy does. You only have control over what you do.” — A.J. Kitt

“If you’re able to be yourself, then you have no competition. All you have to do is get closer and closer to that essence.” — Barbara Cook

Microsoft Alternatives April 1, 2006

http://microsoft.toddverbeek.com/index.html

Daylight Savings March 26, 2006

NSW http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawlink/Corporate/ll_agdinfo.nsf/pages/community_relations_daylight_saving

Who am I? March 11, 2006

“If I am who I am because I am who I am and you are who you are because you are who you are then I am who I am and you are who you are, but if I am who I am because you are who you are and you are who you are because I am who I am then I am not who I am and you are not who you are.”

– “Art” by Yasmina Reza

Publish Short Notes Online March 6, 2006

http://www.shorttext.com/

http://www.notefish.com/

ECG Learning March 1, 2006

http://medlib.med.utah.edu/kw/ecg/index.html

http://www.ecglibrary.com/

Tech Support Alert February 24, 2006

http://www.techsupportalert.com/issues/back_issues.htm

http://www.techsupportalert.com/best_46_free_utilities.htm

http://www.techsupportalert.com/more/extended.htm

Great Software:

http://www.anova.org/software/

http://tinyapps.org/

http://www.marktaw.com/reviews/MyFavoriteSmallware.html

http://www.donationcoder.com/Reviews/

Print Multiple Documents All At Once February 24, 2006

http://www.print-conductor.com/

Javascript Image Cross-Fade February 15, 2006

http://slayeroffice.com/code/imageCrossFade/xfade2.html

Playing Back Encoded Videos February 12, 2006

Many types of encoded videos found on the internet (usually MPEG4: DivX,XviD,H.264) might not be playable on your computer as it stands. Here’s a virtually brain-less way (and actually completely free) to get most videos to play.

VideoLAN Client plays virtually any media file (except RealMedia): http://www.videolan.org/
Just get the portable version – compressed for convenience:

http://portableapps.com/apps/audio_video/media_players/portable_vlc

(And… GOM Player plays broken AVIs)

Or if you want to use Windows Media Player or other DirectShow players, you need a filter.
FFDShow (Tryouts fork) is the best by far:

http://ffdshow-tryout.sourceforge.net/

If you want a “Codec Pack”, the only one I’d recommend is CCCP:

http://cccp-project.net/

Might post on more advanced things to do with video codecs in the future.

Proxy Bypasser November 23, 2005

http://kryptonian-x.blogspot.com/2005/05/proxy-bypasser.html

but my personal favourites:

http://daveproxy.co.uk/

http://www.btunnel.info/

Faith and Doubt November 16, 2005

Philip Yancey defines faith as: “Believing in advance something that will only seem logical when seen in reverse.”

Doubt sees the obstacles. Faith sees the way!
Doubt sees the darkest night, Faith sees the day!
Doubt dreads to take a step. Faith soars on high!
Doubt questions, “Who believes?” Faith answers, “I!”

Enjoy each moment… September 23, 2005

…For one day it will be gone…

Prophets Who Tell Lies September 5, 2005

Excerpted from Jeremiah 23:9-32

Here is my message about the prophets.
My heart is broken inside me.

The land is full of people who aren’t faithful to the Lord.
The prophets are leading sinful lives.
They don’t use their power in the right way.
Prophets and priests alike are ungodly, announces the Lord.
Even in my temple I find them sinning.

They are not faithful to me.
They are not living by the truth.
They strengthen the hands of those who do evil.
So the people do not turn from their sinful ways.
Do not listen to what the prophets are saying to you.
They fill you with false hopes.
They talk about visions that come from their own minds.
What they say does not come from my mouth.
I did not send those prophets.
But they have run to tell you their message anyway.
I did not speak to them.
But they have still prophesied.

Suppose they had stood in my courts.
Then they would have announced my message to my people.
They would have turned my people from their evil ways.
They would have turned them away from their sins.

I have heard what the prophets are saying.
They prophesy lies in my name.
They say, ‘I had a dream! The Lord has given me a dream!’
How long will that continue in the hearts of those prophets who tell lies?
They try to get others to believe their own mistaken ideas.

But let the one who has my message speak it faithfully.

Proverbs 19:21 August 28, 2005

Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails

Web Search of the Future? August 24, 2005

http://collabrank.web.cse.unsw.edu.au/

Heaven’s Very Special Child August 24, 2005

A meeting was held quite far from Earth!
“It’s time again for another birth.”
Said the angels to the LORD above,
“This special child will need much love.

“His progress may be very slow,
Accomplishments he may not show.
And he’ll require extra care
From the folks he meets down there.

“He may not run or laugh or play,
His thoughts may seem quite far away,
In many ways he won’t adapt,
And he’ll be known as handicapped.

“So let’s be careful where he’s sent,
We want his life to be content.
Please LORD, find parents who
Will do a special job for you.

“They will not realize right away
The leading role they’re asked to play,
But with this child sent from above
Comes stronger faith and richer love.

“And soon they’ll know the privilege given
In caring for their gift from Heaven.
Their precious charge, so meek and mild,
Is Heaven’s very special child.”

– By John & Edna Massimilla, December 1981

Proverbs 28:25 August 7, 2005

“He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the Lord will prosper.”

Hallelujah Anyway! August 4, 2005

Habakkuk 1:2
Our LORD, how long must I cry for your help before you listen?

Habakkuk 3:17-19
Even if the fig trees no longer blossom, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will celebrate in the God who saves me. The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He will make my feet as sure as those of a deer and bring me safely over the mountains.

No matter what life may bring. Live joyfully.

Failure July 28, 2005

“I’m never down; I’m either up or getting up.”

“To err is human, but when the eraser wears out ahead of the pencil, you’re overdoing it.” — Jerry Jenkins.

“I have not failed. I’ve successfully found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” — Thomas Edison.

“There is no failure. Only feedback.” — Robert Allen.

“The men who try to do something and fail are infinitely better than those who try to do nothing and succeed.” — Lloyd Jones.

“A life spent making mistakes is not only more honourable but more useful than a life spent in doing nothing.” — George Bernard Shaw.

“It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes short again and again, who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause, who at best knows achievement and who at the worst if he fails at least fails while daring greatly so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” — Theodore Roosevelt.

“It is defeat that turns bone to flint, and gristle to muscle, and makes people invincible, and formed those heroic natures that are now in ascendancy in our world. Do not, then, be afraid of defeat. You are never so near to victory as when defeated in a good cause.” — Henry Ward Beecher.

“A man may fall many times, but he won’t be a failure until he says that someone pushed him.” — Elmer G. Letterman.

“The is no failure except in no longer trying.” — Elbert Hubbard.

“Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” — Samuel Beckett.

“Our business in life is not to succeed, but to continue to fail in good spirits.” — Robert Louis Stevenson.

“It is a mistake to suppose that men succeed through success; they much oftener succeed through failures. Precept, study, advice and example could never have taught them so well as failure has done.” — Samuel Smiles.

“You always pass failure on your way to success.” — Mickey Rooney.

“The best way out is always through.” — Robert Frost.

“Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.” — Psalm 37:24 (NLT)

“Failures are not something to be avoided. You want to have them happen as quickly as you can so you can make progress rapidly.” — Gordon Moore, Chairman Emeritus, Intel

CGI Web Proxy July 17, 2005

Nonpareil
ProxiFree — The Google of CGI Proxies

Recommended (mainly for speed and reliability)
Web Warper
Guardster
The Cloak

More
http://cexx.org/anony.htm
http://www.freeproxy.ru/en/free_proxy/cgi-proxy.htm
http://www.spiesonline.net/anonymous.shtml

Rest and Peace July 14, 2005

“If you give yourself to Him, and accept Him as your Saviour, then, sinful as your life may have been, for His sake you are accounted righteous. Christ’s character stands in place of your character, and you are accepted before God just as if you had not sinned.” — Ellen G. White. Steps to Christ (1892). p62.2

“Our part is, by believing His word, to find rest in Christ Jesus. His words are spirit and life. In believing them there is rest and peace.” — Ellen G. White. Letters About Another Place (1905).

URL Redirection July 14, 2005

Comprehensive Lists & Comparisons:
dmoz
http://notlong.com/links/
http://linktrim.com/lt/links

Recommended:
http://snipurl.com/
http://notlong.com/
http://url123.com/

Others (alphabetical):
0url.com
1tiny.com
6url.com
babyurl.com
doiop.com
linkezy.com
linktrim.com
link.toolbot.com
lin.kz
makeashorterlink.com
metamark.net
minilien.com
qurl.net
rubyurl.com
shorl.com
shorterlink.com
shurl.org
skinnylink.com
smcurl.com
tiny2go.com
tinyclick.com
tinylink.com
tinyurl.com
urlcut.com
urljr.com
url.etusivu.net
v3.net

Note1: These services are only recommended for short-term (months) use. There is no garuantee these companies will last for more than the next 12 months.
Note2: You can even redirect to a mailto: link.

Fear July 13, 2005

“Fear is that little darkroom where negatives are developed” — Michael Pritchard