Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Anyone there?
So hard to see through all the dust! Yes, we are finally posting to our poor, neglected blog. For anyone who has not yet heard, after all we are busy chasing three little ones, we are expecting a fourth in May! And, in case you haven't noticed, we just wanted to point out our baby progress monitor at the top of the blog. Hope you enjoy it!
Friday, April 13, 2012
Does the bible tell us when Jesus was born?
Not long ago I thought it makes sense for Christ to be born on or near the feast of the first fruits, somewhere in the first set of holy days commanded by God. It just made sense, knowing the incredible symbolism woven into the holidays and considering the facts I could recall surrounding His birth. Though I would not hold to such an arbitrary thought dogmatically. I have said for some years now with full confidence that His birth could not be in winter due to the description of the shepherds “with their flocks by night” but, that only served to narrow the possibility to between late spring and early fall. I speculated when reading Leviticus 23 that the first set of Holy days pointed to His first advent while the second set pointed to His second. But with a little digging, the bible is much more specific than that. So get out your bible and lets get diggin’.
Reading through Luke & Matt, focus in on the details. (Luke 1:5) who was Abijah? (1Chron 24:1-19) the first division would start with the first of the year (Exo. 12:2 & 13:4) and each division would serve for ½ month or about two weeks.
This puts the end of Zechariahs service time at the end of Timmuz (about mid July). (Luke 1:23-24) she likely conceives soon after his return thus setting the course for the time scale. (Luke 1 :36) This puts Mary’s conception in the first half of Shevat. (Luke 1:39-56) Mary may have been there for the birth of John. I then assume the presence of a leap month as explained. (Luke 1:56) this puts her return just before Passover. After this Joseph (likely a resident of Bethlehem) came to Nazareth to collect His bride at the culmination of their engagement. (Matt. 1:18-25) They then moved to Bethlehem before any of the neighbors knew she was pregnant. Why? (Luke 4:22) there was no scandal around Jesus’ birth later on, either concerning a fully developed baby at 3 months premature nor an early wedding to indicate premarital relations. Memories are long and scandals are big in that region both then and now. (Luke 2:6) pay attention “while they were there” she did not give birth the night of arrival. Why the stable? It was part of the living quarters, probably of the midwife because her “katalyma” or guest room was occupied. “Pandocheion” the word for commercial inn was not used here. This would also explain how the shepherds knew where to go. All this would put Christ’s birth in the first two weeks of Tishri. Interestingly Tishri 1 is the feast of trumpets (Lev. 23 & Num.29). Jesus’ birth may have been heralded by trumpet blast of men and angels as His second coming will be. Tishri 10 is the day of atonement, He came to take away the sin of the world. Then the 15th –the 22nd is an eight day feast of tents which foretells and commemorates a time of God dwelling with man. Christ put on the “tent” of a man and dwelt among us.
hope you find this interesting, i did, husband signing out:)
Reading through Luke & Matt, focus in on the details. (Luke 1:5) who was Abijah? (1Chron 24:1-19) the first division would start with the first of the year (Exo. 12:2 & 13:4) and each division would serve for ½ month or about two weeks.
This puts the end of Zechariahs service time at the end of Timmuz (about mid July). (Luke 1:23-24) she likely conceives soon after his return thus setting the course for the time scale. (Luke 1 :36) This puts Mary’s conception in the first half of Shevat. (Luke 1:39-56) Mary may have been there for the birth of John. I then assume the presence of a leap month as explained. (Luke 1:56) this puts her return just before Passover. After this Joseph (likely a resident of Bethlehem) came to Nazareth to collect His bride at the culmination of their engagement. (Matt. 1:18-25) They then moved to Bethlehem before any of the neighbors knew she was pregnant. Why? (Luke 4:22) there was no scandal around Jesus’ birth later on, either concerning a fully developed baby at 3 months premature nor an early wedding to indicate premarital relations. Memories are long and scandals are big in that region both then and now. (Luke 2:6) pay attention “while they were there” she did not give birth the night of arrival. Why the stable? It was part of the living quarters, probably of the midwife because her “katalyma” or guest room was occupied. “Pandocheion” the word for commercial inn was not used here. This would also explain how the shepherds knew where to go. All this would put Christ’s birth in the first two weeks of Tishri. Interestingly Tishri 1 is the feast of trumpets (Lev. 23 & Num.29). Jesus’ birth may have been heralded by trumpet blast of men and angels as His second coming will be. Tishri 10 is the day of atonement, He came to take away the sin of the world. Then the 15th –the 22nd is an eight day feast of tents which foretells and commemorates a time of God dwelling with man. Christ put on the “tent” of a man and dwelt among us.
hope you find this interesting, i did, husband signing out:)
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Maranatha Yom Teruah
All eyes on the skies
The feast of trumpets is near
Listen and rejoice
Tishri 1, (should begin the evening before) September 28, 2011
The first day of the Jewish month begins at evening with the appearance of the new moon, (the first light from the waxing crescent). When the waning crescent disappears you know the new moon is coming quickly, but you don’t know when the month shall begin until you see it. When God spoke to Moses He gave the following command for His people concerning the seventh month.
Leviticus 23:24-25 24Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall ye have a Sabbath (day off from regular work), a memorial of blowing of trumpets, an holy convocation (a gathering centered around God, spent in prayer, praise and meditation on His word). 25Ye shall do no servile work therein: but ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD. (KJV, explanations added)
Woven into the law are the shadows of our Lord Jesus Christ as He revealed Himself to those of old, and the feast of trumpets proclaims His return loud and clear. On a day unknown until it arrives He shall come from the eastern sky, clear for all to see. We who have put our faith in His sacrifice as sufficient to pay for our sins walking in His ways thereafter will be gathered to Him with the blast of a heavenly trumpet. He is our offering and He will cleanse us with His Holy fire. So, give a blast and enter the feast at the first light of the Sabbath moon.
“Behold I am coming quickly!”
Jesus
Are you ready for Him? .
digging deeper
Tishri 1 This appointed feast has become known as rosh hashannah (the head or beginning of the year). A kind of somber new years celebration. Other than the fact that this festival comes in the exact middle of the Jewish year and so far I have not found the words rosh hashannah in scripture. Our Lord gave his chosen people specific direction about the beginning of the year speaking of the month Nisan which begins with the new moon closest to the spring equinox Exo.12:2. It seems to me that this became known as the new year celebration because after the passing of generations where the law was lost or ignored they could not figure out the significance of it and thus gave it one somewhat arbitrarily. Jewish tradition includes the eating of apples dipped in honey, symbols of prosperity and blessing for the coming year.
The scriptural guidelines as given in Lev.23:24-25 and in Num.29:1-6 are not very detailed but with a little cultural understanding and comparative scripture the picture we get is truly astounding. First we have the symbolism of the moon, as the coming day draws neigh the light diminishes relating to the light of God diminishing on the earth with the great apostasy which must precede our saviors return. Then the light revealed from the sky for all to see as His coming is also unmistakable revealed from the clouds of heaven. And with a trumpet blast from heaven the redeemed shall be caught up together with Him, Israel was commanded to shadow this by calling the chosen people together with the sounding of the shofar to pray, praise, and dine together. On the day following the sighting of the new moon great sacrifices were to be made including blood, grain and wine. But the grain and wine were not to be offered apart from the atoning blood sacrifice. Just as Jesus is our blood sacrifice and at His coming our works will be brought before Him weather they are good or bad, but even our good works apart from His atoning blood are unacceptable before the Lord.
This is but the first of four appointed times to foreshadow His return, the rest are soon to come.
An appropriate name:
Yom Teruah (from Num.29:1)
(day of)(blowing trumpets)
An appropriate greeting:
Maranatha
(our Lord come)
Family traditions:
Party blowers without restraint
Reading the battles involving trumpets in the bible (Gideon, Joshua)
Decorating makeshift trumpets (funnels)
and more
Appropriate songs:
Joy to the world
What if it were today
When the role is called up yonder
Stand up, stand up for Jesus
season greetings from us to you.
The feast of trumpets is near
Listen and rejoice
Tishri 1, (should begin the evening before) September 28, 2011
The first day of the Jewish month begins at evening with the appearance of the new moon, (the first light from the waxing crescent). When the waning crescent disappears you know the new moon is coming quickly, but you don’t know when the month shall begin until you see it. When God spoke to Moses He gave the following command for His people concerning the seventh month.
Leviticus 23:24-25 24Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall ye have a Sabbath (day off from regular work), a memorial of blowing of trumpets, an holy convocation (a gathering centered around God, spent in prayer, praise and meditation on His word). 25Ye shall do no servile work therein: but ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD. (KJV, explanations added)
Woven into the law are the shadows of our Lord Jesus Christ as He revealed Himself to those of old, and the feast of trumpets proclaims His return loud and clear. On a day unknown until it arrives He shall come from the eastern sky, clear for all to see. We who have put our faith in His sacrifice as sufficient to pay for our sins walking in His ways thereafter will be gathered to Him with the blast of a heavenly trumpet. He is our offering and He will cleanse us with His Holy fire. So, give a blast and enter the feast at the first light of the Sabbath moon.
“Behold I am coming quickly!”
Jesus
Are you ready for Him? .
digging deeper
Tishri 1 This appointed feast has become known as rosh hashannah (the head or beginning of the year). A kind of somber new years celebration. Other than the fact that this festival comes in the exact middle of the Jewish year and so far I have not found the words rosh hashannah in scripture. Our Lord gave his chosen people specific direction about the beginning of the year speaking of the month Nisan which begins with the new moon closest to the spring equinox Exo.12:2. It seems to me that this became known as the new year celebration because after the passing of generations where the law was lost or ignored they could not figure out the significance of it and thus gave it one somewhat arbitrarily. Jewish tradition includes the eating of apples dipped in honey, symbols of prosperity and blessing for the coming year.
The scriptural guidelines as given in Lev.23:24-25 and in Num.29:1-6 are not very detailed but with a little cultural understanding and comparative scripture the picture we get is truly astounding. First we have the symbolism of the moon, as the coming day draws neigh the light diminishes relating to the light of God diminishing on the earth with the great apostasy which must precede our saviors return. Then the light revealed from the sky for all to see as His coming is also unmistakable revealed from the clouds of heaven. And with a trumpet blast from heaven the redeemed shall be caught up together with Him, Israel was commanded to shadow this by calling the chosen people together with the sounding of the shofar to pray, praise, and dine together. On the day following the sighting of the new moon great sacrifices were to be made including blood, grain and wine. But the grain and wine were not to be offered apart from the atoning blood sacrifice. Just as Jesus is our blood sacrifice and at His coming our works will be brought before Him weather they are good or bad, but even our good works apart from His atoning blood are unacceptable before the Lord.
This is but the first of four appointed times to foreshadow His return, the rest are soon to come.
An appropriate name:
Yom Teruah (from Num.29:1)
(day of)(blowing trumpets)
An appropriate greeting:
Maranatha
(our Lord come)
Family traditions:
Party blowers without restraint
Reading the battles involving trumpets in the bible (Gideon, Joshua)
Decorating makeshift trumpets (funnels)
and more
Appropriate songs:
Joy to the world
What if it were today
When the role is called up yonder
Stand up, stand up for Jesus
season greetings from us to you.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Humbled By The Prayer Of A Child
This evening while nursing our newest blessing off to sleep, I was blessed to overhear our eldest praying. "God, in Jesus' name, please help me and my sister to pay attention when Mama and Daddy read to us and to listen and pay attention when people are talking to us." This is an area where she has recently been struggling a little (she is four after all). I was blessed to know that she knows that her heavenly Father can help her when she needs help. I was also amazed that she went to Him on her own, with absolutely no prompting from anyone. I was then humbled. When I am struggling, is my first response to sweetly and simply ask my Father for the help I so desperately and obviously need? Oh, to have the faith of a child!
"Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'" Matthew 18:2-4
Learning from my little ones,
Wife
"Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'" Matthew 18:2-4
Learning from my little ones,
Wife
Friday, June 17, 2011
It's a boy!!!
Just a quick note to let all of you know that our wonderful bab boy was born Thursday, June 16 at 6:44am. He weighed 8 pounds 8 ounces and was 21 inches long. For full details, you must await an upcoming post. :) Praise the Lord for His faithfulness!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Romans Study - Fourth Installment - Chapter 2
Greetings and salutations. I found it much easier to compose this study by interjecting my thoughts in (parentheses) within the text of scripture itself, as though I am reading it aloud and commenting as I go along. Which coincidently is what I am doing, you simply get the conglomerate commentary of countless passes and intermittent focus studies. I am using the KJV in this series of posts due to copyright restrictions on other translations. I personally use the NKJV as my primary English translation; feel free to reference any word for word translation that will aid in your understanding.
Romans 2 1Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. (I am reminded of David’s dealings with Nathan the prophet where he quite literally condemned himself.) 2But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things.
(Paul is condemning hypocrisy, not right analysis of a brother’s character, convictions or lifestyle, which analysis as he makes clear is not according to our own evaluation and determination but according to the plain understanding of scripture. We are not fit to judge within ourselves. We are blind to our own hypocrisy. Man is as flawed as his fallen nature; being born human inhibits our ability to render sound judgments. We must depend on the given word of God to make the judgments; we simply point out what The Judge has already said. But remember the words of Christ, examine yourself first. Not as a constant rule before any situation but as a general principal become an expert at examining yourself according to scripture before you undertake the examination of others. In speaking of hypocrisy, is it not the common practice of man to judge according to our own understanding even the very word of God, deciding the relevancy of scripture passages to today, “This one is/ that one is not”? What judgment awaits those who regard themselves, whether knowingly or unknowingly, as the rule and establisher of truth “it is so because I said so”?... Idolatry of self!)
3And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
(We are all subject to the judgments of God regardless, but when we subject others to our personal judgments disallowing liberty within scriptural guidance and insisting on total conformity, we are then making ourselves out to be the judge and thus usurping the rightful position of God within our own minds. A gross form of idolatry.)
4Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
(In judging, men usually move on to condemnation, ignoring three elements of God’s character on which we are totally dependant but are, sadly, reluctant to extend to others. Namely:
Forbearance- God is willing to cleanse our sin even while we ignorantly continue in it until He takes over with a total character reformation.
Longsuffering- He patiently waits through our blasphemous rebellion until the day He draws us to Him, or our iniquity is full, but then it’s too late.
His Goodness- as the only one good, He is the standard we think we are. Man was created in God’s image - perfect, awesome, and altogether glorious, clothed in the shining light of His glory. Seeing His perfection then should drive us to repentance. When we consider our lowly estate and compare it to God’s unfathomable glory, then realize that He had His awe inspiring image in mind when He created us, we should drop to our knees and limitedly cry out, “Oh, what a FOOL I have been, to mar God’s image in choosing to sin!”)
5But after thy hardness and impenitent heart (as the Pharaoh of Moses’ time) treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
(The self proclaimed judge heaps unto himself condemnation come judgment day.)
6Who will render to every man according to his deeds: 7To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
(To do well was the exact charge given to Cain before he killed his brother. To do well is to effectively execute the purpose for which you were created. As a lamp was created to light a room, so we are judged according to our created purpose, that purpose being to accurately reflect God, shining His light into a darkened world according to our particular calling. Being the represent image of God seems like a tall demand to most people, but be assured, its loftiness is only due to our depravity. This is what we were made for. A painted mirror can reflect just fine after a good cleaning.)
8But unto them that are contentious (Also translated self seeking), and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, 9Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
(Whatsoever you obey you are slaves to the same and to bind yourself to that which is contrary to the character of God is to proudly condemn yourself. This tribulation and wrath is a reference to what we know as hell. In Hebrew it is only referenced figuratively as gehenna or the refuse dump, the foul cesspool of a city’s waste. We are given many descriptions and figures in scripture even by Jesus to describe this place. Basically, it is the other option for eternity. Some have discounted or even denied its existence somewhat based on the common usage of pictures, symbols, and figures to represent it, saying, “The Bible’s description is only symbolic and has no relevance to reality.” Upon encountering this ideology a wise author once wrote, “The thing you must realize about symbols is that they are but a vague remnant of the reality they represent.” If the Bible’s description of hell, namely unquenchable fire, undying thirst, the pungent stench of sulfur, complete isolation, incredible pain crying out from every sensory nerve in your body, worms, disease and parasites ravaging your flesh, there is never a reprieve, no rest will ever come, no relief, no night to sleep nor day to wake just everlasting darkness, death shall not come though you would long for it and try to cause it, death has already come and went and now you only have eternity to look forward to in utter despair and anguish reaping the fruit of the seeds of corruption that you had sown in the sin of your life on earth.… If all of this is merely a symbol of the indescribable reality of hell, what tortures in actuality await the damned soul? And what more motivation do you need to proclaim the power of the Gospel to deliver us from such an end?)
10But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: 11For there is no respect of persons with God. (All are measured by the same rule.) 12For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;
(When we stand before the seat of judgment, God will not need to accuse us. His very presence will reveal our fault, whether we know His laws or not; like a father that can give that penetrating look that says, “You know what you did, you know what you deserve, and that’s exactly what I’m gonna give you.” Praise God if you had a father that taught you that your actions have consequences.)
13For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. 14For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: 15Which show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another; 16In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
(To obey the rules without knowing the rules is not altogether difficult when you think about it, especially given the fact that Christ lives in us and the Holy Spirit guides us. But in all of that I would like to pose a question: what is “the work of the law” that is shown upon the hearts of Gentile believers? Upon much meditation I suggest that the work of the law is the desired purpose to which the law was written; that end being the embodiment and pursuit of God’s character manifest in the believer.)
17Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God, 18And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law; 19And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, 20An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.
(Notice here that Paul in no way discounts or diminishes the value of studying, applying, and teaching the law of God. In fact, he builds it up as something extremely profitable to the new believer. Why? In knowing His given law we learn of His revealed will for the people that are to be called by His name; not in the letter but in the ultimate intention of the law, as discussed above. All of the law is good for instruction and reproof in all matters of righteousness at the time it was written and even to today. I may at a later time study through the law with these verses along with 2Tim.3:15 as the heading verses, but that will be then and I’ll spare you the examples that spring to mind.)
21Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? 22Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? (Remember: even to look on a woman to lust for her is adultery.) thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? (Also translated “rob temples.”) 23Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? 24For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.
(Paul is encouraging self-examination. Are you a hypocrite? Do you practice what you preach in the fullness of its application? The nonbeliever can see right through your hypocrisy and it encourages them to blaspheme the God whose name you have defamed with your hypocrisy. Paul is not implying that we should keep silent in the face of the sin of others, but rather that we should be aware of our own sin as well as others and take a stand against all of it.)
25For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. (Reference James 2:10-“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” Include context.) 26Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? 27And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?
(“Righteousness of the law.” The law itself is not righteous, but rather produces righteousness in its “fulfillment.” The law itself can become an idol and a stumbling block, as it was in Jesus day, when one takes it as a list of regulations and not written toward a divine purpose beyond them.)
28For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
(This was not a new concept that Paul is introducing here, Jeremiah also spoke of the circumcision being of the heart. The circumcision of the flesh has always been a sign that you were in the lineage of God’s chosen people, but it will only be accounted to you for righteousness if you follow God, rather than that you are descended from someone who did. As John the Baptist said, “Do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’” implying “That will not save you.” The purpose of the law was to produce character, the character of God. When Paul says Jew here think “heir of the promise,” for, as Paul says elsewhere, Abraham’s promise was to his seed, singular, that being Christ and we, whether Jew or Gentile, must be adopted in Christ to be an heir of Abraham’s promise.)
I hope this inspires you to read the whole Bible as profitable in all matters of life, as it has me. Until next time, Husband signing off
Romans 2 1Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. (I am reminded of David’s dealings with Nathan the prophet where he quite literally condemned himself.) 2But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things.
(Paul is condemning hypocrisy, not right analysis of a brother’s character, convictions or lifestyle, which analysis as he makes clear is not according to our own evaluation and determination but according to the plain understanding of scripture. We are not fit to judge within ourselves. We are blind to our own hypocrisy. Man is as flawed as his fallen nature; being born human inhibits our ability to render sound judgments. We must depend on the given word of God to make the judgments; we simply point out what The Judge has already said. But remember the words of Christ, examine yourself first. Not as a constant rule before any situation but as a general principal become an expert at examining yourself according to scripture before you undertake the examination of others. In speaking of hypocrisy, is it not the common practice of man to judge according to our own understanding even the very word of God, deciding the relevancy of scripture passages to today, “This one is/ that one is not”? What judgment awaits those who regard themselves, whether knowingly or unknowingly, as the rule and establisher of truth “it is so because I said so”?... Idolatry of self!)
3And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
(We are all subject to the judgments of God regardless, but when we subject others to our personal judgments disallowing liberty within scriptural guidance and insisting on total conformity, we are then making ourselves out to be the judge and thus usurping the rightful position of God within our own minds. A gross form of idolatry.)
4Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
(In judging, men usually move on to condemnation, ignoring three elements of God’s character on which we are totally dependant but are, sadly, reluctant to extend to others. Namely:
Forbearance- God is willing to cleanse our sin even while we ignorantly continue in it until He takes over with a total character reformation.
Longsuffering- He patiently waits through our blasphemous rebellion until the day He draws us to Him, or our iniquity is full, but then it’s too late.
His Goodness- as the only one good, He is the standard we think we are. Man was created in God’s image - perfect, awesome, and altogether glorious, clothed in the shining light of His glory. Seeing His perfection then should drive us to repentance. When we consider our lowly estate and compare it to God’s unfathomable glory, then realize that He had His awe inspiring image in mind when He created us, we should drop to our knees and limitedly cry out, “Oh, what a FOOL I have been, to mar God’s image in choosing to sin!”)
5But after thy hardness and impenitent heart (as the Pharaoh of Moses’ time) treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
(The self proclaimed judge heaps unto himself condemnation come judgment day.)
6Who will render to every man according to his deeds: 7To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
(To do well was the exact charge given to Cain before he killed his brother. To do well is to effectively execute the purpose for which you were created. As a lamp was created to light a room, so we are judged according to our created purpose, that purpose being to accurately reflect God, shining His light into a darkened world according to our particular calling. Being the represent image of God seems like a tall demand to most people, but be assured, its loftiness is only due to our depravity. This is what we were made for. A painted mirror can reflect just fine after a good cleaning.)
8But unto them that are contentious (Also translated self seeking), and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, 9Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
(Whatsoever you obey you are slaves to the same and to bind yourself to that which is contrary to the character of God is to proudly condemn yourself. This tribulation and wrath is a reference to what we know as hell. In Hebrew it is only referenced figuratively as gehenna or the refuse dump, the foul cesspool of a city’s waste. We are given many descriptions and figures in scripture even by Jesus to describe this place. Basically, it is the other option for eternity. Some have discounted or even denied its existence somewhat based on the common usage of pictures, symbols, and figures to represent it, saying, “The Bible’s description is only symbolic and has no relevance to reality.” Upon encountering this ideology a wise author once wrote, “The thing you must realize about symbols is that they are but a vague remnant of the reality they represent.” If the Bible’s description of hell, namely unquenchable fire, undying thirst, the pungent stench of sulfur, complete isolation, incredible pain crying out from every sensory nerve in your body, worms, disease and parasites ravaging your flesh, there is never a reprieve, no rest will ever come, no relief, no night to sleep nor day to wake just everlasting darkness, death shall not come though you would long for it and try to cause it, death has already come and went and now you only have eternity to look forward to in utter despair and anguish reaping the fruit of the seeds of corruption that you had sown in the sin of your life on earth.… If all of this is merely a symbol of the indescribable reality of hell, what tortures in actuality await the damned soul? And what more motivation do you need to proclaim the power of the Gospel to deliver us from such an end?)
10But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: 11For there is no respect of persons with God. (All are measured by the same rule.) 12For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;
(When we stand before the seat of judgment, God will not need to accuse us. His very presence will reveal our fault, whether we know His laws or not; like a father that can give that penetrating look that says, “You know what you did, you know what you deserve, and that’s exactly what I’m gonna give you.” Praise God if you had a father that taught you that your actions have consequences.)
13For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. 14For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: 15Which show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another; 16In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
(To obey the rules without knowing the rules is not altogether difficult when you think about it, especially given the fact that Christ lives in us and the Holy Spirit guides us. But in all of that I would like to pose a question: what is “the work of the law” that is shown upon the hearts of Gentile believers? Upon much meditation I suggest that the work of the law is the desired purpose to which the law was written; that end being the embodiment and pursuit of God’s character manifest in the believer.)
17Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God, 18And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law; 19And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, 20An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.
(Notice here that Paul in no way discounts or diminishes the value of studying, applying, and teaching the law of God. In fact, he builds it up as something extremely profitable to the new believer. Why? In knowing His given law we learn of His revealed will for the people that are to be called by His name; not in the letter but in the ultimate intention of the law, as discussed above. All of the law is good for instruction and reproof in all matters of righteousness at the time it was written and even to today. I may at a later time study through the law with these verses along with 2Tim.3:15 as the heading verses, but that will be then and I’ll spare you the examples that spring to mind.)
21Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? 22Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? (Remember: even to look on a woman to lust for her is adultery.) thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? (Also translated “rob temples.”) 23Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? 24For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.
(Paul is encouraging self-examination. Are you a hypocrite? Do you practice what you preach in the fullness of its application? The nonbeliever can see right through your hypocrisy and it encourages them to blaspheme the God whose name you have defamed with your hypocrisy. Paul is not implying that we should keep silent in the face of the sin of others, but rather that we should be aware of our own sin as well as others and take a stand against all of it.)
25For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. (Reference James 2:10-“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” Include context.) 26Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? 27And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?
(“Righteousness of the law.” The law itself is not righteous, but rather produces righteousness in its “fulfillment.” The law itself can become an idol and a stumbling block, as it was in Jesus day, when one takes it as a list of regulations and not written toward a divine purpose beyond them.)
28For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
(This was not a new concept that Paul is introducing here, Jeremiah also spoke of the circumcision being of the heart. The circumcision of the flesh has always been a sign that you were in the lineage of God’s chosen people, but it will only be accounted to you for righteousness if you follow God, rather than that you are descended from someone who did. As John the Baptist said, “Do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’” implying “That will not save you.” The purpose of the law was to produce character, the character of God. When Paul says Jew here think “heir of the promise,” for, as Paul says elsewhere, Abraham’s promise was to his seed, singular, that being Christ and we, whether Jew or Gentile, must be adopted in Christ to be an heir of Abraham’s promise.)
I hope this inspires you to read the whole Bible as profitable in all matters of life, as it has me. Until next time, Husband signing off
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
A New Post At Last!
No, there is not a problem with the link you have been using to check up on our blog. Yes, we are still alive and well here in Missouri. No, we have not forgotten about our good intentions of blogging updates and such often. Yes, we are finally updating the blog!
For all those who check up on us regularly and have been disappointed to find no new posts in quite a while, here is a long awaited recap of life around here. Many of you were aware that we had taken the position of houseparents with a local Pregnancy Help Center and Maternity Home back in October. For a number of reasons, we resigned our post as of January 6 and came home to our little cabin in the woods. While our time has certainly not been uneventful or altogether easy (what with a blizzard and all, snowing in our truck for nearly three weeks), we have been enjoying spending time together as a family and working around the property.
Regarding home/property improvement projects we have now completed the woodshed and the outhouse (except for the curtains, which have been cut and just need to be sewn up). The girls are fond of the outhouse and especially enjoy opening the door and windows by themselves to look out and talk to us in the garden. Their very handy daddy installed a rope on the door that allows them to pull the door closed without having to hold onto it and maneuver the stairs at the same time. Even our little one can take herself potty now, which she does seemingly on a whim when we are working or playing outside.
We have also nearly completed a sizeable porch. Of course, my love did most of the actual construction, but the girls and I had a grand time painting the floor of the porch to protect it from the mud and the rain. All that is left here are the hand rails and a more official step (the cinder blocks we are using are sufficing quite nicely for now however). Eventually, we will have a washer and dryer set up on the porch as well, but for now we just have the dryer. We are quite blessed to have been able to purchase a fairly large generator to run these kinds of appliances and provide a greater energy output when we really need it. The biggest blessing in the generator is that it came with an electric start option, so even Mama can turn it on. (I still have not managed to start the pull start generator.)
Always mindful of my needs and desires, Husband lovingly installed a deep double sink in the kitchen. Indoor drainage is a convenience I had really come to miss and am quite thankful to have again. We found a great, brand new stainless steel sink at the Habitat for Humanity Restore for $35. About a week ago we saw the same sink at Lowe’s for $157. Even with all of the plumbing to drain it to the proper spot outside, we did not come anywhere near the regular asking price of the sink. Thrift stores are wonderful places.
We are currently working on setting up a nice, large garden spot out in front of the house. We have two of our wide rows completed and several small planters around the house. This project is progressing nicely, though a little slower than we would like to see. There are a lot of tree roots, rocks, vines, rocks, weeds, and did I mention rocks? Husband is great with a pick axe and the girls are wonderful at rock relocation. Their favorite gardening project is actually putting seed in dirt. We bought a little green house box to keep inside that they planted with tomatoes, tomatillos, various kinds of peppers, melons, and even some flowers. They were thrilled when the first sprouts appeared and just had to spend some time laying on the floor staring into the propped open box.
After all of their hard work, winter lasted longer than anticipated and most of these sprouts did not survive. However, our outside plants have come up and are doing well. The girls love to exclaim about the newest growth they can find.
We were able to get 14 fruit trees in the orchard area near our home, so we are looking forward to some homegrown fruit this year (provided we can keep the squirrels and raccoons out of it). We have peaches, cherries, nectarines, apples, and apricots.
All of the wet and wintery weather has really taken its toll on our easement, so reconstruction is an ongoing project as well. When we are not in the garden or out and about, we are probably working on getting the easement driveable again. But for now, walking to the top when we have to go places is proving enjoyable and we are all benefitting from the extra exercise. A friend with a tractor is planning on coming over very soon to work with Husband on this one.
Our most recent additions are half a dozen ducks and a dozen chicks. They are happily residing in our hillbilly chicken coop (aka the old camper shell from the truck) and we are working on a bigger coop for them that should be ready in plenty of time for them to be big enough to need it.
Life is a constant spelling bee for Mama since McGee is loving letters and words of all types. Different types give her trouble though (font types that is). One man’s I looks a whole lot like another man’s l or 1. She will get it though and her little sister usually sits in on our lessons, so by the time she can talk she will be able to spell.
Baby #3 is doing well also. With just under two months to go we are looking forward to the arrival and beginning to think about gathering baby things (onesies and sleepers and such). Firstborn daughter still insists this little one is a brother, so we really have no need to settle in on a girl name. We have it narrowed down to two just in case.
I think that about sums it up. Until next time,
My Family
Wife Speaking
For all those who check up on us regularly and have been disappointed to find no new posts in quite a while, here is a long awaited recap of life around here. Many of you were aware that we had taken the position of houseparents with a local Pregnancy Help Center and Maternity Home back in October. For a number of reasons, we resigned our post as of January 6 and came home to our little cabin in the woods. While our time has certainly not been uneventful or altogether easy (what with a blizzard and all, snowing in our truck for nearly three weeks), we have been enjoying spending time together as a family and working around the property.
Regarding home/property improvement projects we have now completed the woodshed and the outhouse (except for the curtains, which have been cut and just need to be sewn up). The girls are fond of the outhouse and especially enjoy opening the door and windows by themselves to look out and talk to us in the garden. Their very handy daddy installed a rope on the door that allows them to pull the door closed without having to hold onto it and maneuver the stairs at the same time. Even our little one can take herself potty now, which she does seemingly on a whim when we are working or playing outside.
We have also nearly completed a sizeable porch. Of course, my love did most of the actual construction, but the girls and I had a grand time painting the floor of the porch to protect it from the mud and the rain. All that is left here are the hand rails and a more official step (the cinder blocks we are using are sufficing quite nicely for now however). Eventually, we will have a washer and dryer set up on the porch as well, but for now we just have the dryer. We are quite blessed to have been able to purchase a fairly large generator to run these kinds of appliances and provide a greater energy output when we really need it. The biggest blessing in the generator is that it came with an electric start option, so even Mama can turn it on. (I still have not managed to start the pull start generator.)
Always mindful of my needs and desires, Husband lovingly installed a deep double sink in the kitchen. Indoor drainage is a convenience I had really come to miss and am quite thankful to have again. We found a great, brand new stainless steel sink at the Habitat for Humanity Restore for $35. About a week ago we saw the same sink at Lowe’s for $157. Even with all of the plumbing to drain it to the proper spot outside, we did not come anywhere near the regular asking price of the sink. Thrift stores are wonderful places.
We are currently working on setting up a nice, large garden spot out in front of the house. We have two of our wide rows completed and several small planters around the house. This project is progressing nicely, though a little slower than we would like to see. There are a lot of tree roots, rocks, vines, rocks, weeds, and did I mention rocks? Husband is great with a pick axe and the girls are wonderful at rock relocation. Their favorite gardening project is actually putting seed in dirt. We bought a little green house box to keep inside that they planted with tomatoes, tomatillos, various kinds of peppers, melons, and even some flowers. They were thrilled when the first sprouts appeared and just had to spend some time laying on the floor staring into the propped open box.
After all of their hard work, winter lasted longer than anticipated and most of these sprouts did not survive. However, our outside plants have come up and are doing well. The girls love to exclaim about the newest growth they can find.
We were able to get 14 fruit trees in the orchard area near our home, so we are looking forward to some homegrown fruit this year (provided we can keep the squirrels and raccoons out of it). We have peaches, cherries, nectarines, apples, and apricots.
All of the wet and wintery weather has really taken its toll on our easement, so reconstruction is an ongoing project as well. When we are not in the garden or out and about, we are probably working on getting the easement driveable again. But for now, walking to the top when we have to go places is proving enjoyable and we are all benefitting from the extra exercise. A friend with a tractor is planning on coming over very soon to work with Husband on this one.
Our most recent additions are half a dozen ducks and a dozen chicks. They are happily residing in our hillbilly chicken coop (aka the old camper shell from the truck) and we are working on a bigger coop for them that should be ready in plenty of time for them to be big enough to need it.
Life is a constant spelling bee for Mama since McGee is loving letters and words of all types. Different types give her trouble though (font types that is). One man’s I looks a whole lot like another man’s l or 1. She will get it though and her little sister usually sits in on our lessons, so by the time she can talk she will be able to spell.
Baby #3 is doing well also. With just under two months to go we are looking forward to the arrival and beginning to think about gathering baby things (onesies and sleepers and such). Firstborn daughter still insists this little one is a brother, so we really have no need to settle in on a girl name. We have it narrowed down to two just in case.
I think that about sums it up. Until next time,
My Family
Wife Speaking
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Romans Study - Chapter One 3rd Installment
WOW!!! At this rate I’ll have written a complete commentary on Romans by the time my eldest daughter is of marriageable age! I don’t know when the following were studied by Wife and I, but I’m pretty sure it was in February of 2010 and I thought I posted all of Romans 1 in the first installment. Hopefully we will post one chapter per installment, with each installment closer together, from here on out. But first things first, to finish:
Romans 1:18 “for the wrath of God is revealed from heaven…” How? In raining fire and brimstone? At times God’s justice is administered in that way, but pay close attention to the wording here as we move forward. “against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men.” How is God’s complete judgment foretold from Heaven? May I suggest to you a record that predates the existence of every living creature, written in the very stars of the cosmos, known biblically as mazzaroth. For a more detailed study of mazzaroth I suggest “The Gospel in the Stars” by Joseph Seiss and “Unlocking the Mysteries of Creation” by Dennis R. Petersen, but for a brief glimpse, realizing that the entire study is far more intricate, here is an excerpt from my History curriculum concerning day four:
“In the darkness of the night of the fourth day, God, seeing the end of His creation as clearly as the beginning and knowing every decision man would make before man was even created, wrote His plan of redemption (the gospel itself) in the very stars of heaven. Through the corruptness of this world, this has degenerated into the zodiac, but the mazzaroth contains the original meaning.
Virgo – A deliverer supernaturally conceived of a virgin, born as a man, yet the Son of God. Libra – To balance the scales of divine justice, an adequate price must redeem man from his curse as a sinner.
Scorpio – Redemption’s price requires the death of the deliverer, who must also destroy the serpent-tempter.
Sagittarius – The two-natured deliverer conquers the dragon and receives praise.
Capricornus – The living fish results from the death of the atoning sacrificial goat, and resurrection life is shared with all true believers.
Aquarius – The Water of Life poured out on the redeemed who await the sure return of the redeemer.
Pisces – Delayed salvation sets free those in bondage who await their coming King.
Aries – The Lamb was slain to deliver the freed woman to marry her deliverer, overcoming the great dragon.
Taurus – The Judge comes to rule as Prince of Glory as fiery wrath pours out on His enemies and His people are protected in the day of wrath.
Gemini – The coming Prince of Glory crushes the enemy underfoot.
Cancer – The gathered flock is secure in the safe harbor and rest of their coming redeemer.
Leo – The triumphant redeemer destroys the serpent upon which the wrath of God is poured out and then is devoured by the raven.”
And to continue with vs 18- “who suppress the truth in unrighteousness.” Who is the who? Ungodly and unrighteous men. In what way do they suppress the truth in unrighteousness? By exchanging the truth of God (as revealed in mazzaroth) for the lie (as revealed in the zodiac) - reference verse 25. Have you ever wondered why all the ancient star gazing groups on different continents use the same star configurations? Maybe they have a common root in corrupted truth.
This conclusion came about in studying the verses in their context and it all ties together so beautifully it seemed best to present the scripture (with my thoughts in parentheses). So keeping the above in mind…
Rom 1:19 “19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them.” (Who is them? I believe these are two different thems; the first being the mazzaroth signs, and the second being the same unrighteous men that choose to exchange God’s truth for their lie. This lie began before the division at Babel and was perpetuated throughout their generations to follow. In introducing their corruption, they knew exactly what they were doing and did it on purpose.)
Rom 1:20 “20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen (stars are quite evident to all let alone the rest of creation), being understood by (or through) the things that are made (again stars would be one of those many things that proclaim God’s Glory), even his eternal power and Godhead (see mazzaroth intro above); so that they (these unrighteous men) are without excuse:”
Romans 1:21 21Because that, when they knew God, they (these unrighteous inventers of idolatry)glorified him not as God, neither were thankful (While the lack of esteem toward God is expected to precede an idolatrous ideology, I find it interesting that thankfulness is also mentioned as a driving factor in the origin of man’s postdiluvian apostasy.); but became vain (self-centered) in their imaginations (as though they provided their own of life’s necessities and luxuries), and their foolish heart was darkened. (Their heart being foolish already in thinking highly of itself and little of God became all the more darkened as their thinking was manifest in their action. Foolishness begets foolishness until utter depravity fails to describe man’s lowly estate as we gleefully wallow in our own filth like a swine in the mire.)
Rom 1:22 22Professing themselves to be wise (The all sufficient source of supernatural knowledge as the inventor and priest on high of the god of their own imagination made after their own corrupt image), they became fools, (how foolish it is to bow before a log that you yourself carved and, as Isaiah said, use the rest of the log to burn a sacrifice to it.)
Rom 1:23 23And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man (Have you ever noticed throughout man’s history how man naturally assumes a caliber a step or two below the deity they claim to serve? But when the deity is made after the corrupted mind of a wayward man the deity is made at least one step below him, allowing him then to assume the position three steps below where he was. Inevitably then man and the master of the “god” he “serves” will then ascribe any action, attitude or outright atrocity he desires to pursue to the deity of his invention, thereby excusing all manor of wickedness by calling it a divine attribute worthy of pursuit and altogether admirable. From here on out man is in an almost uncontrollable downward spiral engaging in these unseemly actions mentioned by Paul here to follow, and many more besides), and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things. (Man’s imagination is somewhat pathetic, we have no ability to conceive of something that beforehand did not exist, the height of our creativity is to scramble and rearrange that which God has created.)
Rom 1:24 24Wherefore (Given the downward spiral of idolatry as described above) God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts (again see note on vs 23), to dishonor their own bodies between themselves (This is the natural course of idolatry.)
Rom 1:25 25Who changed the truth of God into a lie (mazzaroth into zodiac), and worshipped and served the creature (sometimes fashioning an image sometimes not, either way idolatry) rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Rom 1:26 26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections (Again the downward spiral as mentioned above): for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature (Homosexuality and beastiality are a direct result of idolatry):
Rom 1:27 27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly (self explanatory), and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was due. (The sexually immoral lifestyle leads to all manner of S.T.D.’s and physical ailments, beyond the spiritual degradation.)
(At this point, I should explain that holding anyone, anything, any idea or ideal as supreme, disregarding God as creator and Lord supreme constitutes idolatry. In other words whatever is at the center of your life is your god! And if that is anything but the Lord God as revealed to us in the biblical text, sent to us in the form of man to pay our penalty upon the cross and redeem us to himself, it is idolatry somewhere along the downward spiral of total depravity. I should also explain that a sexually immoral lifestyle involves any sexual activity outside of a committed, life long, covenant marriage; to include emotional attachments and visual stimuli. Further, in a covenant marriage vows are taken separately because they are not contingent on each others fulfillment.)
Rom 1:28-31 28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge (Not that God and His word were unreasonable, flawed or untrustworthy, they just found it inconvenient to their desired lifestyle.), God gave them over to a reprobate mind (Woe to those that are so far gone that God gives up on them.), to do those things which are not convenient; (encompassing that which is mentioned above and much more) (The list that follows entails those things that are common in an idolatrous mind, our faith and principals by which we live are inevitably expressed in our actions.) 29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity (The list thus far are attitudes that lead to the following actions.); whisperers (gossip), 30Backbiters (Exalting ones self often involves tearing others down.), haters of God (Disregarding biblical council and rebuke), despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents (Interesting mention here, but this is indeed the first sign of the self centeredness of the carnal man.), 31Without understanding (and refusing to gain any), covenant breakers (Self is the first rule, agreements are binding until inconvenient, but, none other is afforded such a luxury.), without natural affection (all others may die so long as I’m happy syndrome), implacable (hard hearted), unmerciful:
Rom 1:32 32Who knowing the judgment of God (as detailed in mazzaroth and in the scriptures from Genesis to Malachi), that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same (scripture regarded as irrelevant in the name of Christian liberty often excusing their actions with the culture shift argument, disregarding the consistent theme of God setting apart a people from “culture” and to Himself), but have pleasure in them that do them. (Did you catch that? Whether you are a sexually immoral person, or if you approve of ones lifestyle with so much as a “to each his own attitude” you are just as guilty yourself. The same goes for the rest of the items in the list, to listen to gossip without rebuke is to be guilty of it yourself, you have no parents to disobey but you encourage young people to do so, establishing ones justification in covenant breaking by “taking their side,” being a “yes man” to those who promote themselves by displacing others. I could go on detailing each, but it is summarized nicely as Paul moves into chapter 2.)
Well that’s chapter one. Chapter two is under way and has me in constant examination of my own hypocrisy; and deep contemplation of the role of the mosaic law today.
Until next time, Husband speaking
Romans 1:18 “for the wrath of God is revealed from heaven…” How? In raining fire and brimstone? At times God’s justice is administered in that way, but pay close attention to the wording here as we move forward. “against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men.” How is God’s complete judgment foretold from Heaven? May I suggest to you a record that predates the existence of every living creature, written in the very stars of the cosmos, known biblically as mazzaroth. For a more detailed study of mazzaroth I suggest “The Gospel in the Stars” by Joseph Seiss and “Unlocking the Mysteries of Creation” by Dennis R. Petersen, but for a brief glimpse, realizing that the entire study is far more intricate, here is an excerpt from my History curriculum concerning day four:
“In the darkness of the night of the fourth day, God, seeing the end of His creation as clearly as the beginning and knowing every decision man would make before man was even created, wrote His plan of redemption (the gospel itself) in the very stars of heaven. Through the corruptness of this world, this has degenerated into the zodiac, but the mazzaroth contains the original meaning. Virgo – A deliverer supernaturally conceived of a virgin, born as a man, yet the Son of God. Libra – To balance the scales of divine justice, an adequate price must redeem man from his curse as a sinner.
Scorpio – Redemption’s price requires the death of the deliverer, who must also destroy the serpent-tempter.
Sagittarius – The two-natured deliverer conquers the dragon and receives praise.
Capricornus – The living fish results from the death of the atoning sacrificial goat, and resurrection life is shared with all true believers.
Aquarius – The Water of Life poured out on the redeemed who await the sure return of the redeemer.
Pisces – Delayed salvation sets free those in bondage who await their coming King.
Aries – The Lamb was slain to deliver the freed woman to marry her deliverer, overcoming the great dragon.
Taurus – The Judge comes to rule as Prince of Glory as fiery wrath pours out on His enemies and His people are protected in the day of wrath.
Gemini – The coming Prince of Glory crushes the enemy underfoot.
Cancer – The gathered flock is secure in the safe harbor and rest of their coming redeemer.
Leo – The triumphant redeemer destroys the serpent upon which the wrath of God is poured out and then is devoured by the raven.”
And to continue with vs 18- “who suppress the truth in unrighteousness.” Who is the who? Ungodly and unrighteous men. In what way do they suppress the truth in unrighteousness? By exchanging the truth of God (as revealed in mazzaroth) for the lie (as revealed in the zodiac) - reference verse 25. Have you ever wondered why all the ancient star gazing groups on different continents use the same star configurations? Maybe they have a common root in corrupted truth.
This conclusion came about in studying the verses in their context and it all ties together so beautifully it seemed best to present the scripture (with my thoughts in parentheses). So keeping the above in mind…
Rom 1:19 “19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them.” (Who is them? I believe these are two different thems; the first being the mazzaroth signs, and the second being the same unrighteous men that choose to exchange God’s truth for their lie. This lie began before the division at Babel and was perpetuated throughout their generations to follow. In introducing their corruption, they knew exactly what they were doing and did it on purpose.)
Rom 1:20 “20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen (stars are quite evident to all let alone the rest of creation), being understood by (or through) the things that are made (again stars would be one of those many things that proclaim God’s Glory), even his eternal power and Godhead (see mazzaroth intro above); so that they (these unrighteous men) are without excuse:”
Romans 1:21 21Because that, when they knew God, they (these unrighteous inventers of idolatry)glorified him not as God, neither were thankful (While the lack of esteem toward God is expected to precede an idolatrous ideology, I find it interesting that thankfulness is also mentioned as a driving factor in the origin of man’s postdiluvian apostasy.); but became vain (self-centered) in their imaginations (as though they provided their own of life’s necessities and luxuries), and their foolish heart was darkened. (Their heart being foolish already in thinking highly of itself and little of God became all the more darkened as their thinking was manifest in their action. Foolishness begets foolishness until utter depravity fails to describe man’s lowly estate as we gleefully wallow in our own filth like a swine in the mire.)
Rom 1:22 22Professing themselves to be wise (The all sufficient source of supernatural knowledge as the inventor and priest on high of the god of their own imagination made after their own corrupt image), they became fools, (how foolish it is to bow before a log that you yourself carved and, as Isaiah said, use the rest of the log to burn a sacrifice to it.)
Rom 1:23 23And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man (Have you ever noticed throughout man’s history how man naturally assumes a caliber a step or two below the deity they claim to serve? But when the deity is made after the corrupted mind of a wayward man the deity is made at least one step below him, allowing him then to assume the position three steps below where he was. Inevitably then man and the master of the “god” he “serves” will then ascribe any action, attitude or outright atrocity he desires to pursue to the deity of his invention, thereby excusing all manor of wickedness by calling it a divine attribute worthy of pursuit and altogether admirable. From here on out man is in an almost uncontrollable downward spiral engaging in these unseemly actions mentioned by Paul here to follow, and many more besides), and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things. (Man’s imagination is somewhat pathetic, we have no ability to conceive of something that beforehand did not exist, the height of our creativity is to scramble and rearrange that which God has created.)
Rom 1:24 24Wherefore (Given the downward spiral of idolatry as described above) God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts (again see note on vs 23), to dishonor their own bodies between themselves (This is the natural course of idolatry.)
Rom 1:25 25Who changed the truth of God into a lie (mazzaroth into zodiac), and worshipped and served the creature (sometimes fashioning an image sometimes not, either way idolatry) rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Rom 1:26 26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections (Again the downward spiral as mentioned above): for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature (Homosexuality and beastiality are a direct result of idolatry):
Rom 1:27 27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly (self explanatory), and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was due. (The sexually immoral lifestyle leads to all manner of S.T.D.’s and physical ailments, beyond the spiritual degradation.)
(At this point, I should explain that holding anyone, anything, any idea or ideal as supreme, disregarding God as creator and Lord supreme constitutes idolatry. In other words whatever is at the center of your life is your god! And if that is anything but the Lord God as revealed to us in the biblical text, sent to us in the form of man to pay our penalty upon the cross and redeem us to himself, it is idolatry somewhere along the downward spiral of total depravity. I should also explain that a sexually immoral lifestyle involves any sexual activity outside of a committed, life long, covenant marriage; to include emotional attachments and visual stimuli. Further, in a covenant marriage vows are taken separately because they are not contingent on each others fulfillment.)
Rom 1:28-31 28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge (Not that God and His word were unreasonable, flawed or untrustworthy, they just found it inconvenient to their desired lifestyle.), God gave them over to a reprobate mind (Woe to those that are so far gone that God gives up on them.), to do those things which are not convenient; (encompassing that which is mentioned above and much more) (The list that follows entails those things that are common in an idolatrous mind, our faith and principals by which we live are inevitably expressed in our actions.) 29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity (The list thus far are attitudes that lead to the following actions.); whisperers (gossip), 30Backbiters (Exalting ones self often involves tearing others down.), haters of God (Disregarding biblical council and rebuke), despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents (Interesting mention here, but this is indeed the first sign of the self centeredness of the carnal man.), 31Without understanding (and refusing to gain any), covenant breakers (Self is the first rule, agreements are binding until inconvenient, but, none other is afforded such a luxury.), without natural affection (all others may die so long as I’m happy syndrome), implacable (hard hearted), unmerciful:
Rom 1:32 32Who knowing the judgment of God (as detailed in mazzaroth and in the scriptures from Genesis to Malachi), that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same (scripture regarded as irrelevant in the name of Christian liberty often excusing their actions with the culture shift argument, disregarding the consistent theme of God setting apart a people from “culture” and to Himself), but have pleasure in them that do them. (Did you catch that? Whether you are a sexually immoral person, or if you approve of ones lifestyle with so much as a “to each his own attitude” you are just as guilty yourself. The same goes for the rest of the items in the list, to listen to gossip without rebuke is to be guilty of it yourself, you have no parents to disobey but you encourage young people to do so, establishing ones justification in covenant breaking by “taking their side,” being a “yes man” to those who promote themselves by displacing others. I could go on detailing each, but it is summarized nicely as Paul moves into chapter 2.)
Well that’s chapter one. Chapter two is under way and has me in constant examination of my own hypocrisy; and deep contemplation of the role of the mosaic law today.
Until next time, Husband speaking
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Romans Chapter One Part Two
It has been some time since my last installment of this study through Romans. With so few comments, I figured that no one was interested. Wife and I continued to study through the scripture at three chapters a day, taking a test at the completion of every book to assist in our retention. We had found a Bible trivia book with the questions divided by the books of the Bible. After testing and reading the answers, we would go over the questions and references together. This proved valuable not only for our edification but also because we found many incorrect answers in the answer key and some incorrect questions. Between this and other studies, the publishing of my notes seemed less than profitable. But recently as we drew our through the Bible study to a close, I discovered how to check page view statistics as opposed to relying on notes and it turns out that the Romans post was the number one viewed post even after it had fallen from the front page. So as a test of whether it was just a fluke here are the rest of my notes from Romans chapter 1. Whether they will be followed by Romans chapter 2 will depend on the response.
(06/03/10) Rom. 1:11-12
It speaks here of imparting a spiritual gift. Perhaps he is speaking of confirming that which seems to be present in them on an individual basis, but as we see with Timothy, gifts of the spirit may be given with the anointing and laying on of hands of the eldership. Either way, I find the purpose of spiritual gifts of more interest than the way in which they were obtained or imparted. At the end of verse 11, Paul says, “so that you may be established.” While at times it has been overemphasized, the importance of knowing your place in the body of Christ cannot be denied. We feel useless and without purpose, wondering what it is God desires of us- missionary, preacher, funding and support? One thing I knew long ago is that God desires more from each one of us than to faithfully sit down on Sunday morning. As James says, our faith is an active faith; without action our faith is dead. But, how shall we act? Shall we try our hand in every avenue until we find out which one we’re best suited for? Shall we grow stale and stagnant waiting for our opportunity to present itself? In any case, every stone must be laid on the sure foundation. Until your foundation is sure in the doctrine of Christ, you will not be suitable to be placed. Many of us may feel like the bricks are piled in the temple awaiting placement. If that is so, perhaps the only thing to do is to ask the master builder about the place He has set for us. Not yet established, I find the waiting difficult. Paul also addresses the benefit of knowing ones place. It is for mutual encouragement and edification. Sadly, many times today, we have the desire to be greatly esteemed rather than the desire to do God’s will. But which is more essential to a battle, the general that divides the forces, or the blacksmith that sharpens the swords? The one is of greater esteem. Unless both commit themselves to the perfection of their craft, the battle is lost. Prominence does not equal importance. Just as a painter with great hand eye coordination would accomplish little without a properly functioning stomach, even so the body of Christ is crippled when members fail to fill their roles. But when we work together, with an understanding to fill our role to the best of our ability, regardless of position, there is great reward.
Rom. 1:13
Paul assures them that he has cared for them from their inception; however, for a yet undisclosed reason he was hindered but is now on his way. What a joy to finally be on the way that God has long ago set you! Some missionaries are told years in advance that they are going somewhere. Many brothers express their doubt if your departure is not immediate. It is important that we that are sent do not allow ourselves to be discouraged. If God has told us where we are going, we need to take the time He has given us to prepare.
Rom. 1:14-15
As he says here, Paul in his ministry thus far has set the example to cross every cultural and physical barrier. There is no partiality with God for where you grew up or how rich or educated you were. The only thing that matters on judgment day is “are your sins cleansed by the blood of Christ?” Now I have heard it said that when Paul is speaking of being a debtor here, he is speaking of “paying forward” (as opposed to “paying back”) his eternal debt to Christ. But my initial understanding was from purely the physical aspect in that Paul also took his sustenance from those he taught and in that way he was in their debt. But, as Christ said the worker is worthy. His hosts may even have been so hospitable as to send him on his way with provision. It is a sad truth that many, if not most, unbelievers are more hospitable than the pillars of the faith today. Hospitality is not paying for someone’s hotel or giving them money; it is taking them into your home and sharing life with them. If you are too private to be hospitable, maybe you’re hiding something you ought to be expelling.
Rom. 1:16-17
Verse 16 is pretty self-explanatory, but to build on it, verse 17 goes on to say, “For in the gospel of Christ the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. As it is written, the just shall live by faith.” One must have faith to understand justice. It is unreasonable to our human minds that justice can be served if the offender is not the one to pay the debt. Therefore, without faith on both parties, the gospel cannot be effectively communicated. The words of the faithful may only begin to stir the mind of those who reject until enough faith has grown that the words may be established. It is then that the gospel can be communicated from the faith of the believer to the faith of the seeker. Thus, from faith to faith.
Again feel free to leave a comment, on or off topic, and if you would like me to continue to publish my notes, leave a note to that effect in the comment box or simply make your opinion known on the Romans study pole, but remember no vote is a “no” vote.
(06/03/10) Rom. 1:11-12
It speaks here of imparting a spiritual gift. Perhaps he is speaking of confirming that which seems to be present in them on an individual basis, but as we see with Timothy, gifts of the spirit may be given with the anointing and laying on of hands of the eldership. Either way, I find the purpose of spiritual gifts of more interest than the way in which they were obtained or imparted. At the end of verse 11, Paul says, “so that you may be established.” While at times it has been overemphasized, the importance of knowing your place in the body of Christ cannot be denied. We feel useless and without purpose, wondering what it is God desires of us- missionary, preacher, funding and support? One thing I knew long ago is that God desires more from each one of us than to faithfully sit down on Sunday morning. As James says, our faith is an active faith; without action our faith is dead. But, how shall we act? Shall we try our hand in every avenue until we find out which one we’re best suited for? Shall we grow stale and stagnant waiting for our opportunity to present itself? In any case, every stone must be laid on the sure foundation. Until your foundation is sure in the doctrine of Christ, you will not be suitable to be placed. Many of us may feel like the bricks are piled in the temple awaiting placement. If that is so, perhaps the only thing to do is to ask the master builder about the place He has set for us. Not yet established, I find the waiting difficult. Paul also addresses the benefit of knowing ones place. It is for mutual encouragement and edification. Sadly, many times today, we have the desire to be greatly esteemed rather than the desire to do God’s will. But which is more essential to a battle, the general that divides the forces, or the blacksmith that sharpens the swords? The one is of greater esteem. Unless both commit themselves to the perfection of their craft, the battle is lost. Prominence does not equal importance. Just as a painter with great hand eye coordination would accomplish little without a properly functioning stomach, even so the body of Christ is crippled when members fail to fill their roles. But when we work together, with an understanding to fill our role to the best of our ability, regardless of position, there is great reward.
Rom. 1:13
Paul assures them that he has cared for them from their inception; however, for a yet undisclosed reason he was hindered but is now on his way. What a joy to finally be on the way that God has long ago set you! Some missionaries are told years in advance that they are going somewhere. Many brothers express their doubt if your departure is not immediate. It is important that we that are sent do not allow ourselves to be discouraged. If God has told us where we are going, we need to take the time He has given us to prepare.
Rom. 1:14-15
As he says here, Paul in his ministry thus far has set the example to cross every cultural and physical barrier. There is no partiality with God for where you grew up or how rich or educated you were. The only thing that matters on judgment day is “are your sins cleansed by the blood of Christ?” Now I have heard it said that when Paul is speaking of being a debtor here, he is speaking of “paying forward” (as opposed to “paying back”) his eternal debt to Christ. But my initial understanding was from purely the physical aspect in that Paul also took his sustenance from those he taught and in that way he was in their debt. But, as Christ said the worker is worthy. His hosts may even have been so hospitable as to send him on his way with provision. It is a sad truth that many, if not most, unbelievers are more hospitable than the pillars of the faith today. Hospitality is not paying for someone’s hotel or giving them money; it is taking them into your home and sharing life with them. If you are too private to be hospitable, maybe you’re hiding something you ought to be expelling.
Rom. 1:16-17
Verse 16 is pretty self-explanatory, but to build on it, verse 17 goes on to say, “For in the gospel of Christ the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. As it is written, the just shall live by faith.” One must have faith to understand justice. It is unreasonable to our human minds that justice can be served if the offender is not the one to pay the debt. Therefore, without faith on both parties, the gospel cannot be effectively communicated. The words of the faithful may only begin to stir the mind of those who reject until enough faith has grown that the words may be established. It is then that the gospel can be communicated from the faith of the believer to the faith of the seeker. Thus, from faith to faith.
Again feel free to leave a comment, on or off topic, and if you would like me to continue to publish my notes, leave a note to that effect in the comment box or simply make your opinion known on the Romans study pole, but remember no vote is a “no” vote.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
How well do you know the story of Jesus’ birth?
Recently, some friends loaned us a copy of the book “Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels” by Kenneth E. Bailey. The author focuses on helping the western world understand some things about the Gospels that would be fairly obvious to someone from the middle east, but completely hidden to us. We have found it fascinating so far and wanted to share some highlights from chapter one to hopefully fascinate all of you as well (or at least give you something to read while you are on break).
As our title states, chapter one is about the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ birth. Bailey opens with an engaging line of thought, “Have the centuries added meanings to our understanding of the text that are not there? A diamond ring is admired and worn with pride, but with the passing of time, it needs to be taken to a jeweler to be cleaned to restore its original brilliance. The more the ring is worn, the greater the need for occasional cleaning. The more familiar we are with a Bible story, the more difficult it is to view it outside of the way it has always been understood. And the longer imprecision in the tradition remains unchallenged, the deeper it becomes embedded in Christian consciousness.” The birth of Jesus is such an account.
So, what are some of the concepts that may need a little cleaning?
1) Most homes in Bethlehem would have been open to Joseph, provided they had the space, due to his lineage. Not only was his family from Bethlehem, he was in the royal family (distantly of course). Extended family ties are strong and memories long in that part of the world. To turn away a descendant of David in the “City of David” would have been an unspeakable shame.
2) Due to Mary’s obvious pregnant condition, help would have been more readily available. Such communities do a really good job of taking care of expectant mothers.
3) Time allowing, if Mary and Joseph could not find anywhere in Bethlehem to stay, they could have gone the short distance to her cousin Elizabeth’s house and lodged there. How long were they in Bethlehem before Jesus was born anyway?
4) Joseph probably had ample time to find a place for his family to stay. Most dramas of Christ’s birth show Mary delivering the night they arrived in Bethlehem, but God’s Word says in Luke 2:6, “While they were there the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.” Sounds like they had time to settle in before the big event.
About this time, it is important to ask where we got the idea that Joseph and Mary arrived in Bethlehem late one night with Mary doubled over in intense labor pain, only to deliver Jesus a short while later in a cave with the animals. It turns out that about 200 years after the birth of Christ an anonymous Christian wrote a novel called “The Protoevangelium of James,” in which he expanded a bit on the details given in Scipture to provide a “fuller” picture of Jesus’ birth. The problem? This person apparently was not Jewish nor was he familiar with Jewish geography or customs. Among other things, the author of this book has Mary and Joseph traveling through the desert (in reality they traveled through rich farmland) with Mary in labor. She delivers in a cave just outside Bethlehem.
Probably the most fascinating part of the chapter for us though was the description of a typical peasant house in Bethlehem. The house was basically one large room where all of the families activities would take place. Off to one side or above the main house, there was usually another room, confusingly translated “the inn”, where guests were welcome to stay. The word used (katalyma) actually means place to stay as opposed to another word that would have been used for a commercial inn (pandocheion) a compound word meaning “all” and “to receive” or “anybody welcome”. Luke was clearly intentional in his use of these words in his gospel as we see pandocheion used in the parable of the good Samaritan, clearly referring to a commercial inn, and katalyma used when referring to the upper room of a man’s house in which Jesus ate the last supper with His deciples. Off to the other side of the house there would be a step down into what was referred to as the stable. This is where the animals would spend the night, both for their warmth and safety and that of the family. Next to the stable area in the main family room were one or two dug out areas in the floor. These were the mangers, where the feed for the animals would go. It fits naturally that a regular peasant family of Bethlehem, seeing Mary and Joseph in need but having already filled their guest room, invited the young couple into their family living space. While there, Mary’s due date came and she delivered Jesus, probably with the help of the women of the house and the local midwife, and laid him in the manger.
Another note of interest has to do with the shepherds. Shepherds were not high class citizens in Jewish society. When the angel gave them the good news, they were fearful until the angel mentioned that they would find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger, exactly like their children would be! They ran off to find him. Upon finding Him, if He were really in a cave with the animals, their Jewish hospitality instincts would have kicked in and they would have invited the family home to their own simple peasant houses. They did not, instead they left happily. Again, it would have been shameful for them not to extend hospitality to the family if they had better to offer. They did not offer so we can assume that what Mary, Joseph and Jesus already had was as good as anything they could offer. Another supporting note is that Matthew says the wise men came to the house where Jesus was. Most of us were taught that after the birth Joseph found better lodging for the family and they moved before the wise men arrived. Perhaps it is more plausible that they were in a house to begin with.
We are still reading through Chapter 2, so we cannot wholeheartedly recommend the whole book. But the first chapter was great and we look forward to reading the rest. Hope you’ve enjoyed our book report!
My Family
Parents Speaking
Friday, October 22, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
That's Right Folks...
We are expecting another little family member somewhere on or near June 16, 2011!!! We have been suspecting for a while, since mama has had more heartburn, airheadedness/forgetfulness, and need for food and water than normal. So, this morning we were able to test and find out. I love seeing those two little lines! :) You can always see how far along I am, how big the baby is, and what the baby is doing in his or her development by looking at the timeline on the top of our blog. It updates automatically and shows the size of the baby compared to various food items. Right now the baby is approximately the size of a large poppy seed. Enjoy! Please be praying with us for a healthy baby and a healthy pregnancy. May the Lord be with you all,
My Family
Wife Speaking rather excitedly (it's 4:30 in the morning and my wonderful husband encouraged me not to call and wake up all of our west coast famiy.... so I had to blog!)
My Family
Wife Speaking rather excitedly (it's 4:30 in the morning and my wonderful husband encouraged me not to call and wake up all of our west coast famiy.... so I had to blog!)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Lifestyle Changes Aplenty
Since our last update, we have seen Wife's parents come and go in a whirlwind visit that, though wonderful, was just too short! We all had a great time together. We also accomplished quite a bit. I think my parents had to go home to recover! Dad was terrific and installed a solar panel system. Which means - woohoo! We have power! Yes folks, we can now run our small electric appliances indoors. We are truly blessed to have wonderful parents. We also got the woodstove in working order thanks to mom and dad. This came in handy with a few nights where the lows were in the mid to upper 30's.
And just as we got the house winter ready we found out that we had been approved as houseparents at the maternity home / pregnancy help center we have been involved with. We moved in last night (we still maintain our real home and will go there on our off days). Our first resident arrived today and is currently settling in to her new surroundings. We would appreciate your prayers for the grace of God to sustain us through this time and figure out all of the ins and outs of this position.
Just today we were told the horrifying news that a friend of a daughter in law of a friend aborted her eight month old baby while her husband was out of town. everyone is devastated, most of all the husband who was very much looking forward to holding his little girl. The world truly is growing colder and more reprobate. We need to work now while we still can. My heart was grieved and my stomach churned at the realization once again of the horrors done in this country in the name of choice. Do you realize that at 24 weeks 90% of babies will survive with medical care? By eight months the odds are even better. All a baby does that last month is get chubby! I don't understand how people can murder an innocent like that and not think anything of it. Sorry for the rant...
Well, I suppose that is all for now. See you later!
My Family
Wife speaking
And just as we got the house winter ready we found out that we had been approved as houseparents at the maternity home / pregnancy help center we have been involved with. We moved in last night (we still maintain our real home and will go there on our off days). Our first resident arrived today and is currently settling in to her new surroundings. We would appreciate your prayers for the grace of God to sustain us through this time and figure out all of the ins and outs of this position.
Just today we were told the horrifying news that a friend of a daughter in law of a friend aborted her eight month old baby while her husband was out of town. everyone is devastated, most of all the husband who was very much looking forward to holding his little girl. The world truly is growing colder and more reprobate. We need to work now while we still can. My heart was grieved and my stomach churned at the realization once again of the horrors done in this country in the name of choice. Do you realize that at 24 weeks 90% of babies will survive with medical care? By eight months the odds are even better. All a baby does that last month is get chubby! I don't understand how people can murder an innocent like that and not think anything of it. Sorry for the rant...
Well, I suppose that is all for now. See you later!
My Family
Wife speaking
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Long Awaited Update
I just realized how long it has been since we added anything to the blog. Since our last post, we have been very busy with the local Pregnancy Help Centers>. We are preparing for our upcoming Walk for Life (an annual fundraiser) and getting more involved in the day to day operations. We are preparing for Wife's parents (and hopefully sister) to visit next week and our PS133 friends are moving away tomorrow. It has been quite a month.
Hopefully we will post more sometime soon. For now, we are enjoying a little time together as a family in the cooler weather before the winter weather settles in. And, Praise the Lord, we have begun installing the windows in our home. We have already noticed a temperature change at night with the windows shut, and we still have a couple to go.
Bye for now,
Wife Speaking
Hopefully we will post more sometime soon. For now, we are enjoying a little time together as a family in the cooler weather before the winter weather settles in. And, Praise the Lord, we have begun installing the windows in our home. We have already noticed a temperature change at night with the windows shut, and we still have a couple to go.
Bye for now,
Wife Speaking
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Guinea Pictures
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We purchased seven different varieties of guinea fowl. Each variety has distinct markings that help you identify them as keets (babies). This little one should be a royal purple. Royal purples are very dark and black in color with a purple shine. They have irregular dotting and barring in their flank area. THey show their color best in full sun..JPG)
Chocolate...they will be dark brown with a few dots and bars in the flank area.
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Brown...dark brown with white dots.
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coral blue...medium blue with darker coral blue on the neck, chest and back. A few dots and bars in the flank..JPG)
This one is pied, which means it will look somewhat like a penguin.
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brown.JPG)
violet
A dusty black with a purple shee. THey show their color best on a cloudy day or when the sun is at your back while looking at them. THey are a solid color.
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chocolate
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pied
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i really like the pied ones :)
These are a bit outdated. The birds were 3 days old at the time. Now they have fully feathered wings and fly all around their "coop" (an old camper shell).
Friday, July 23, 2010
The Guineas Have Arrived!
Finally, after a few months of waiting, the guinea fowl we ordered are here. 31 made it here alive and we still have 28. Three died in one day of unknown causes (we were not home... it looks like they got trampled in a guinea pile). Everyone else looks healthy, though there are about 4 that are much smaller than the rest. THey are getting bigger and growing their wing feathers. With these feathers they are also starting to flap around in their box. THe girls love to watch them and play with them, though they do need CONSTANT supervision, for the safety of the birds.
Meanwhile, we have been busy. We helped orchestrate a Vacation Bible School last week. It was enjoyed by an average of 15 kids per night. We also have begun working with the local Pregnancy Help Center and would appreciate prayers for this ministry, our part in it, the other volunteers, the young pregnant woman who lives at the center and the upcoming Walk 4 Life (annual fundraiser).
We have pictures. i'll send them soon. :)
Meanwhile, we have been busy. We helped orchestrate a Vacation Bible School last week. It was enjoyed by an average of 15 kids per night. We also have begun working with the local Pregnancy Help Center and would appreciate prayers for this ministry, our part in it, the other volunteers, the young pregnant woman who lives at the center and the upcoming Walk 4 Life (annual fundraiser).
We have pictures. i'll send them soon. :)
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Those Funny Little Things Kids Say (And Do!)! And a family update....
Recently the girls have been entertaining us with some of their antics. Hopefully, I remember all the ones I wanted to post.
McGee, while "reading" her new children's dictionary, "The Lord says, 'Get out of their guy! Get out of the kitchen! That is where the wife lives!'" The picture on the page at the time was a guy in a workshop, that apparently reminded McGee of a kitchen.
Bernard has taken to climbing up to their library and out onto the stairs if left alone for a second. She is living up to her middle name!!!
The other day Mama was having attitude issues and was rather grumpy with McGee. She sweetly turned to me and said, "Mama, you need to have a better attitude. God wants us to have good attitudes." How right she was! It is precious to have your child remind you to live what you preach. Mama's attitude did improve after this.
I'm sure there was more, but it will have to wait since I have forgotten!
Meanwhile, we are praising the Lord for His provision! Husband got a job working in the produce section at our local Walmart! His first week on the job we were blessed with unusually cool weather so the girls and I could accomplish some of our work at home.
Another recent blessing was a day of wonderful fellowship at the home of some of our friends. There was quite the crowd for the 4th of July festivities - 8 adults and 15 children, combined with three hours of fireworks, tons of food and some great music (played by many of the children and a few parents). The girls had a wonderful time running and playing for hours.
Well, that's all for now! Thanks for tuning in.
My Family
(Wife Speaking)
McGee, while "reading" her new children's dictionary, "The Lord says, 'Get out of their guy! Get out of the kitchen! That is where the wife lives!'" The picture on the page at the time was a guy in a workshop, that apparently reminded McGee of a kitchen.
Bernard has taken to climbing up to their library and out onto the stairs if left alone for a second. She is living up to her middle name!!!
The other day Mama was having attitude issues and was rather grumpy with McGee. She sweetly turned to me and said, "Mama, you need to have a better attitude. God wants us to have good attitudes." How right she was! It is precious to have your child remind you to live what you preach. Mama's attitude did improve after this.
I'm sure there was more, but it will have to wait since I have forgotten!
Meanwhile, we are praising the Lord for His provision! Husband got a job working in the produce section at our local Walmart! His first week on the job we were blessed with unusually cool weather so the girls and I could accomplish some of our work at home.
Another recent blessing was a day of wonderful fellowship at the home of some of our friends. There was quite the crowd for the 4th of July festivities - 8 adults and 15 children, combined with three hours of fireworks, tons of food and some great music (played by many of the children and a few parents). The girls had a wonderful time running and playing for hours.
Well, that's all for now! Thanks for tuning in.
My Family
(Wife Speaking)
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Bible Study Forum - Romans 1 and Intro
Just prior to leaving Arizona the wife and I decided we needed to study together more. We chose a section of scripture we are both shamefully poor on, the epistles. And what better place to start than with the first one? We immediately started in on Romans 1 about a month after deciding to do so, since then we have been consistent in studying together one day in a month’s time. We wanted to study daily together but it seems that with children and other responsibilities our energy was quite spent and the day drew to a close before affording us the opportunity. The few days we have studied was due to the inability of one of us to wait for the other and usually me keeping wife awake with a rambling exposition of the next verse. Knowing this study time to be of the utmost importance I will endeavor to streamline our activities and place this in a priority position. After all as the priest of the home my wife and children are my first priority in discipleship among other areas. We decided early on to take notes through our study and the wife has recently encouraged me to publish them so that others may be encouraged and edified as we have been. To all who care to read this, feel free to leave notes and pull in scriptures on or off subject. Many of you likely will have already known what we find and see this as elementary explorations, our intent is that this can be yet another venue for iron to sharpen iron. So pardon the informality from here on out these type of posts will mostly consist of our personal notes.
3-14-10
Romans 1:1 We see Paul introduced as a bondservant of Jesus Christ. A bondservant is not his own man. He was bought at a price and his will has no bearing on his course of action. Rather his actions are determined by the will of his master. Paul was specifically chosen, while yet a sinner, to be Christ’s apostle to the gentiles. “Separated to the gospel of God,” not “for” as though the gospel had a benefit in Paul’s service, but “to,” as in Paul was to be cultivated in close contact with the gospel that he may become the express image and embodiment of that which it sets forth.
Romans 1:2 Reveals that the entire redemption plan was thought out and foretold by the prophets to whom God revealed it, which we have preserved for us in the Old Testament Scriptures.
Romans 1:3 The central focalpoint of the foretold redemption plan was the messiah, Jesus Christ, our Lord. (As Paul is primarily concerned with the will of his master, so ought we to be, as our Master and position under Him are the same as Paul’s, though our chosen purpose may be different.) And, as foretold, Jesus was born in the lineage of David, according to the flesh, establishing His right to the throne of Israel.
Romans 1:4 And declared beyond contestation to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead by the power of the Spirit of holiness.
4-12-10
Romans 1:5 Are grace and apostleship given because of one’s obedience to the faith or to promote obedience to the faith? Either way, the characteristics of a fully discipled individual include obedience and being non-discriminatory in regards to nationality.
Romans 1:6 Paul here touches on the purpose of apostleship as reproduction. As he addresses that they are among the “all” other nations and they, just as he, are the called of Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:7 Verse seven finally gets to whom we are talking about, the Roman Christians, called to be saints (set apart). The saved of Rome were called to live visibly and in all other ways separate from mainstream Roman society, and yet among them in that society, so that their difference might be seen. Paul greets them with a blessing, though a stern rebuke immediately follows.
5-30-10
Romans 1:8 Paul recognizes and exemplifies the order in which we have access to God. Jesus Christ is our mediator. No one comes to the Father for any reason except through Him. Paul thanks God for the reputation of these Roman Christians. Though they tolerated filthy behavior that we will see as the book continues, they had a reputable faith throughout the entire Roman empire. Many churches today are tolerant of that which they ought not be, but whether tolerating or expelling of unrighteousness, the faith of the body of Christ in general is less reputable than that of these early Christians who do not even yet know their place in the body, as we shall see in verse 11. Living in a society destitute of the truth of God, their faith in the true God provokes them to actions which set them apart from the society in which they live, which society could clearly see and identify the difference between the average Roman and the sanctified of Christ.
Romans 1:9 Basically, Paul is saying, “If you don’t believe what I’m about to say, ask God; He’ll back me up on it.” Then he specifies the God of whom he speaks by relating back to his bondservanthood to the gospel of His Son. Moving into verse 10, Paul prays incessantly to visit the Roman Christians and with a longing, as that of a grandparent who longs to see a new grandchild, Paul longs to see these fledgling Christians whom he has never met. This should serve as an example for us. The body of Christ ought to love each other enough to long to meet each other, even over long distances, for fellowship and mutual edification.
3-14-10
Romans 1:1 We see Paul introduced as a bondservant of Jesus Christ. A bondservant is not his own man. He was bought at a price and his will has no bearing on his course of action. Rather his actions are determined by the will of his master. Paul was specifically chosen, while yet a sinner, to be Christ’s apostle to the gentiles. “Separated to the gospel of God,” not “for” as though the gospel had a benefit in Paul’s service, but “to,” as in Paul was to be cultivated in close contact with the gospel that he may become the express image and embodiment of that which it sets forth.
Romans 1:2 Reveals that the entire redemption plan was thought out and foretold by the prophets to whom God revealed it, which we have preserved for us in the Old Testament Scriptures.
Romans 1:3 The central focalpoint of the foretold redemption plan was the messiah, Jesus Christ, our Lord. (As Paul is primarily concerned with the will of his master, so ought we to be, as our Master and position under Him are the same as Paul’s, though our chosen purpose may be different.) And, as foretold, Jesus was born in the lineage of David, according to the flesh, establishing His right to the throne of Israel.
Romans 1:4 And declared beyond contestation to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead by the power of the Spirit of holiness.
4-12-10
Romans 1:5 Are grace and apostleship given because of one’s obedience to the faith or to promote obedience to the faith? Either way, the characteristics of a fully discipled individual include obedience and being non-discriminatory in regards to nationality.
Romans 1:6 Paul here touches on the purpose of apostleship as reproduction. As he addresses that they are among the “all” other nations and they, just as he, are the called of Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:7 Verse seven finally gets to whom we are talking about, the Roman Christians, called to be saints (set apart). The saved of Rome were called to live visibly and in all other ways separate from mainstream Roman society, and yet among them in that society, so that their difference might be seen. Paul greets them with a blessing, though a stern rebuke immediately follows.
5-30-10
Romans 1:8 Paul recognizes and exemplifies the order in which we have access to God. Jesus Christ is our mediator. No one comes to the Father for any reason except through Him. Paul thanks God for the reputation of these Roman Christians. Though they tolerated filthy behavior that we will see as the book continues, they had a reputable faith throughout the entire Roman empire. Many churches today are tolerant of that which they ought not be, but whether tolerating or expelling of unrighteousness, the faith of the body of Christ in general is less reputable than that of these early Christians who do not even yet know their place in the body, as we shall see in verse 11. Living in a society destitute of the truth of God, their faith in the true God provokes them to actions which set them apart from the society in which they live, which society could clearly see and identify the difference between the average Roman and the sanctified of Christ.
Romans 1:9 Basically, Paul is saying, “If you don’t believe what I’m about to say, ask God; He’ll back me up on it.” Then he specifies the God of whom he speaks by relating back to his bondservanthood to the gospel of His Son. Moving into verse 10, Paul prays incessantly to visit the Roman Christians and with a longing, as that of a grandparent who longs to see a new grandchild, Paul longs to see these fledgling Christians whom he has never met. This should serve as an example for us. The body of Christ ought to love each other enough to long to meet each other, even over long distances, for fellowship and mutual edification.
Monday, June 7, 2010
A Medical Science Lesson For You
Well, folks. It turns out we will not be having a baby this December. Wait a second! Before you get too concerned and upset, you should know a few things. The Lord is in control of the womb and the timing of all blessings thereof, whether they survive the womb or not. We trust to Him the care of all of our children. According to the midwife we saw, my body released what is known as a blighted ovum. This is a deformed egg that she said does not get fertilized or implant, but causes an empty sac to form with a small placenta (about the size of a large lime). The body releases all of the pregnant hormones and thinks it is pregnant, but there is no baby. After a while the body figures out that there is no baby and stops producing the hormones for pregnancy, thus releasing the egg and other tissues in the uterus. This is similar to when a chicken lays an eggshell with nothing in it... only different. According to everything else we read online and other people's doctors, conception does occur, but due to the genetic issues of the egg the baby dies before it has a chance to grow into anything that looks like a baby. We are resting in the knowledge that the Lord knows exactly what happened when and He takes care of our little ones.
Things we have learned from all of this:
1) Mama needs to take better care of herself when it gets hot around here (I don't drink enough water).
2) There is a wonderful midwife near us in Versailles who is quite informative and helpful.
3) Seeing an empty womb on an ultrasound machine when you are expecting to see a baby is a very strange feeling.
4) God is good and has great plans for us. He knows what He is doing, whether or not we do.
So, we anxiously await the arrival of our next little blessing, whenever the Lord should decide to bless us with another, if the Lord should decide to bless us with another. We just wanted to update everyone. We are all doing well. Feel free to comment and let us know how you are doing. Thank you all for your prayers and concern. We love you!
Praise the Lord for His goodness and timing,
My Family
Wife Speaking
Things we have learned from all of this:
1) Mama needs to take better care of herself when it gets hot around here (I don't drink enough water).
2) There is a wonderful midwife near us in Versailles who is quite informative and helpful.
3) Seeing an empty womb on an ultrasound machine when you are expecting to see a baby is a very strange feeling.
4) God is good and has great plans for us. He knows what He is doing, whether or not we do.
So, we anxiously await the arrival of our next little blessing, whenever the Lord should decide to bless us with another, if the Lord should decide to bless us with another. We just wanted to update everyone. We are all doing well. Feel free to comment and let us know how you are doing. Thank you all for your prayers and concern. We love you!
Praise the Lord for His goodness and timing,
My Family
Wife Speaking
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