Bryan Hodge

“Loving Too Much”

Posted on July 30, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

In a keynote speech at the 1952 Republican Convention, Congressman Walter Judd told this story about helping his daughter with her homework. He said, “I can get the right answer almost every time, and she would like to have me do it for her… I’ll help, suggest, advise, counsel, nudge, maybe pray, but I don’t work them for her, not because I don’t love her, but because I do, and I want her to succeed, and that is the way for her to grow and to learn how to solve problems.”

One of the hardest things for a parent to learn is that being easy on his/her children is not always in the children’s best interest. As much as a parent might want to spare his/her child from difficulties and struggles, it still is in the children’s best interest to have to deal with these things.

Struggles are spiritually needful for maturation. James 1:3 teaches this truth saying, “… the trying of your faith worketh patience.” One will not learn to be patient if he never has to face trials and difficulties in life. What do we call a child that always gets what he wants, and never has to wait or share? Spoiled! Such a child has parents that have actually hindered proper maturation.

At times, some well-meaning relative (be they parents, brothers or sisters, etc.) or friends are too ready to aid and abet, and too quickly and zealous to cushion the fall of sinful loved ones. I kindly suggest that such response only enables the sinful to continue their lifestyle.

Consider the situation in that parable of that prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). I do not know many things about what and when the father knew concerning the state of his son. Did he know that his son was “in want” (Luke 15:14)? Did he know that his son had “devoured (his) living with harlots” (Luke 15:30)? [Evidently he did, the eldest son knew!]. Did he know where his son was? Did he know that his son had “wasted his substance with riotous living” (Luke 15:13)? Did he know that when the famine hit he had “spent all” (Luke 15:14)? Did he know that his son had taken a job feeding swine (Luke 15:15)? Did he know that his son had sunk so low that he was having to eat swine’s food (Luke 15:16)? Did he know how the son’s friends’ had turned from him (Luke 15:16)? [Yes, it seems likely to me that the father knew of these things – Luke 15:30]. This I do know, many a parent today would have sent money to that sinful son. Many a dad would have rented a house and paid the utilities for this sinful son. Such response would have only encouraged the young man to continue his current manner of life, after all “daddy will bail me out”… The son would learn that there were little consequences for such a depraved, immoral life. The prodigal son, we are told, “came to himself” (Luke 15:17) and decided to return home (Luke 15:18) and confess his sins (Luke 15:18-19, 21). Watch this – only after he was allowed to hit rock bottom and fall flat on his face did his behavior change.

True love sometimes must allow hardships. True love is sometimes “tough love.” True love doesn’t allow people to continue comfortably in sin. Sometimes “loving too much” isn’t being loving at all.

Posted in Family, Fellowship, Parenting | Tagged Enabling, love, Luke 15, Parenting, Prodigal Son, Tough Love, Walter Judd | Leave a comment

Do Good Parents Always Produce Good Children?

Posted on July 27, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Some parents struggle with this question. They do this because the Bible does say, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6)However, we do have record of good men ending up with wicked children (e.g. 2 Kings 18:1-3 cf. 2 Kings 20:20-21: 1-9). Moreover, we do have a record of some men urning out good in spite of the fact that they had evil parents (e.g. 2 Kings 16:1-4 cf. 2 Kings 18:1-3). While it is true that parents do have much to do with how the child turns out, each child does possess the ability of choice.

What about Proverbs 22:6? A proverb is often setting forth a general truth. For example, Proverbs 21:17 says, “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.” Is this always true? Or listen to Proverbs 23:21, “… the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.” This is a general truth, and a good warning, but there are exceptions. Or what about Proverbs 16:7, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Is it truth that sometimes righteous behavior can will over even an enemy. But is such always the result?

It is my experience as a preacher that most children who grow up to be bad, or unfaithful in adulthood do so due to a lack of proper influence, example, instruction and guidance. There are however, exceptions. In Isaiah 1:2 God says, “…I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.”

Parents, do the best you can. Love your children. When you make a mistake, admit it and try better the next day. Train them concerning God’s will. If you do these things you’ll be doing what God expects, and odds are that your children are more likely to turn out right, than if you did not so train them.

Posted in Family, Parenting, Textual study | Tagged ahaz, Hezekiah, manasseh, Parenting, Proverbs 22:6 | Leave a comment

How Are We Tempted? (Part 2)

Posted on July 25, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The lessons learned from the previous writing: (1) Our temptations are derived out of our own lusts (desires). (2) Satan does not force us to do wickedness. Instead, he entices us. His bait is our own lust (desire). (3) Each human is housed within a physical body. Satan commonly uses the natural desires of the physical body to tempt. Brother Kerry Duke has written, “We are always housed in a physical body; from the moment of conception our spirit has been bound to it. Physical existence is the only life we have experienced, and only after death will we know existing apart from a physical world is like… our awareness of the physical world is sufficient to provide a constant challenge to the will. This awareness is immediate; we do not have to make a special effort to become aware of it. But just to think about the spiritual requires special effort. Our physical surroundings continually draw our attention. This is why so few become truly spiritually minded. For those who do, over coming the tendency to think only of the physical demonstrates a genuine commitment of the will.” (God at a Distance, page 84-85). Satan uses the distractions of this world, and the natural desires that we have to lead us away from God’s will. [For example – hunger is an involuntary desire. God wants us to work for our food (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Satan may tempt us to take a short cut (Proverbs 30:8-9)].

But, how do we keep ourselves from falling for Satan’s lures?

1. 1 John 2:17: “The world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.”

The question comes up whether the term “world” refers to the material world, or the evil of this world. It is, of course, true that this material world will not last forever (Heb. 1:10-11; 2 Peter 3:10-12). Moreover, it is certainly true that we cannot take our material possessions with us (Psalm 49:16-17; Ecclessiates 2:18-19; Ecclessiates 5:15; cf. Job 1:21; Matthew 6:19-20; Luke 12:20; John 6:27; 1 Timothy 6:7). Too often we put all our energy laboring for and accumulating things which will not last. However, it is my belief that the reference is to the evil things of this world. The pleasures of sin are but for a season (Hebrews 11:24-25).

In order to successfully handle temptation, we must keep focused. The pleasures of sin are but for a season (Hebrews 11:24-25). Colossians 3:2 urges us “set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” 2 Corinthians 4:18 encourages, “The things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” Mark 8:36-37 asks, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

By the way “doeth” represents continuous, not one time, action. Let us keep on doing His will (1 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9).

2. Psalm 119:11: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.”

Jesus when he was tempted responded by saying, “It is written.” Three times He so responded (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10).

The more we know the scriptures and meditate upon them the better we will be prepared to resist temptation. Saturate your mind with the Word of God. That Word will “effectually” work within us. (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

3. Mark 14:38: “Watch ye and pray lest ye enter into temptation.”

We need to watch, that is, stay alert to the “wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11)… “for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Corinthians 2:11). 1 Peter 5:8 warns, “Be sober, be vigilant: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”

We also need to remember to pray. The Bible says, “Men ought to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). Colossians 4:2 says “continue in prayer.” Let us “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). The Christian may “come boldly unto the throne of grace… and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). It’s hard to sin if you’re praying about it! Prayer can even eliminate some temptation (Matthew 6:13; Proverbs 30:8-9).

4. 3 John 11-12: “follow not that which is evil, but that which is good… Demetrius hath a good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.”

Following the wrong people will get one in many tempting circumstances (Proverbs 13:20; 1 Corinthians 15:33; see also Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 1:10-15).

Find godly examples. Such will help you to resist the wrong (1 Corinthians 11:1; 1 Peter 5:3; Hebrews 13:7). 3 John 9-12 urges Gaius to not follow Diotrephes, but Demetrius. Find those who want to do right and live holy lives and befriend them. The Psalmist wrote, “I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts” (Psalm 119:63).

5. Proverbs 15:3: “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.”

As you conduct your life remember that whether anyone else sees what you do or not – God does. Even things we hide from others He knows (Ecclesiastes 12:14; Romans 2:16; 1 Timothy 5:24-25). Remembering that we’re always being watched and are accountable is a great motivation to resist temptations.

Conclusion

The methods of temptation have not changed. In the garden, Eve saw the fruit was: (a) good for food (lust of the flesh); (b) pleasant to the eyes (lust of the eyes); (c) to be desired to make one wise (pride of life) see Genesis 3:6. In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted with (a) turning stones to bread (lust of the flesh); (b) offer of kingdoms (lust of the eyes); (c) challenge to prove that He was under God’s protective care (pride of life) see Matthew 4. These are still the three avenues of temptation for us today (see James 1:14-15; 1 John 2:15-17).

It is my hope that we’ve set forth some ways that will help you deal with the temptations of life in a godly, productive way.

Posted in Sin, Temptation | Tagged satan's lures, sin, temptation | Leave a comment

How Are We Tempted? (Part 1)

Posted on July 23, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

In Medicine, the more that is known about how a disease is contracted, the better prepared one is to avoid it.

In Security, the more one understands how the employees or customers steal, the more prepared the company is to prevent it.

In Military, the more one understands how his enemy will attack, the better prepared the military will be to resist such an attack.

Likewise, spiritually the more we understand how our adversary the devil tempts us, the more prepared we will be to resist sin.

Let’s look…

1. James 1:14: “Every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.”

What leads to sin? First, one has certain lust(s) or desire(s) within the mind [The word “lust” in the original language can be used of good and wholesome desires (Luke 22:15; Philippians 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 2:7). However, it is very commonly used of evil and wrongful desires.] The means of temptation is through our desires. Think about this: Is there anything wrong with the desire for food? Or physical intimacy? No! But such must be regulated by the word of God.

Second, we are enticed. The word “entice” in the original language means ‘to bait, to lure by bait.’ Think of a fish-hook with a juicy worm on the end wiggling around before the fish. The devil takes our desires and dangles them before us trying to get us to satisfy these desires in a way which is contrary to God’s will.

Third, the lure draws us, as a baited hook does a fish. Please note that to be tempted is not sin (Heb. 4:15), as we sing “yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin.” Though, we may have certain desires, we must recognize the hook of sin and avoid grabbing hold. In fact, we’d do well to run from it (2 Timothy 2:22; Genesis 39:12)

The points I want you to remember are: (1) Satan does not make us do something. He lures us. (2) Satan can use even good and natural desires to bait us. Many times God has made available a legitimate way for us to fulfill those desires. Satan tries to get us to fulfill our desires in a different way, a way which is contrary to God’s will.

2. James 1:15: “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”

The imagery changes a bit from the previous verse.

This concerns conception and birth.

First, it starts with lust(s) or desire(s) becoming implanted in you. The desire may be universally sinful, or it may be that you are not authorized to receive this desire in the way you seek it.

Second, if that lust (desire) is allowed to grow it will give birth to sin. It is extremely important that we guard our minds (Proverbs 4:23; Mark 12:30; Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8).

Third, the end result is (spiritual) death. Just like the fish which has been hooked!

3. 1 John 2:15-17: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is of the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.”

The word “world” can refer to: (1) The universe – the Kosmos, the Greeks so used. (Roy Lanier Jr. cites John 17:24 for this usage); (2) The earth (Romans 1:8; 1 John 3:17); (3) By metonymy: The human race which inhabits this ordered sphere (1 John 2:2; Matthew 5:14); (4) The gentiles as distinguished from the Jews (Vine’s cites Romans 11:17); (5) The sum of temporal possessions (Matthew 16:26; 1 Corinthians 7:31); (6) The evil which dominates this world (John 15:18-19; Galatians 6:14; Colossians 2:8; James 1:27; James 4:4; 1 John 4:5; 1 John 5:19). I do believe that this last usage is in usage here [though, it is possible to love this material world too much. See 2 Timothy 3:4b; Romans 1:25; Luke 8:14; Matthew 6:33; Colossians 3:2].

The “things of the world” means do not love anything that may be included in the term “world”. It is a movement from the general to the specific.

Now, let’s consider the three areas of temptation. First, there is the lust of the flesh (that is: fleshly needs, desires, and appetites). Roy Deaver has written, “The natural desires of the human body are not inherently sinful. They are God-given. God has provided for their satisfaction. These desires can be satisfied in the right way, or they can be satisfied in a wrong way” (Romans, p. 201). Robert Taylor Jr. adds, “Bodily appetites are not wrong per se. But they are to be fulfilled legitimately. We hunger for food, air, sexual release, security, etc. There are wrong ways to obtain such; there are right ways to obtain such” (Studies in Romans, p. 114). Kerry Duke has also said, “Since we dwell in a physical body, we are dependent upon the world. We must breathe, eat, and sleep to survive… even more significant is that those drives are involuntary, having been instilled by the Creator… Man’s craving for food is an inherent drive. Wish though he may that this did not exist, man cannot escape the need for food. But though the desire itself is not of man’s choosing, his response to it is. In fact, how man handles physical hunger is indicative of whether he exercises a basic Christian virtue: temperance or self-control” (God at a Distance, p. 87). Again, he writes of man’s sexual drive, “The feelings themselves may be involuntary and spontaneous, but to experience a feeling is one thing; how one responds to it is a different matter” (ibid, p. 95). “…It is important to remember that although dealing with the intensity of the sexual drive is a major struggle of life, fulfilling this desire is not a necessity of life” (ibid, p. 98). And to the married he said, “For the Christian, the sexual drive is not so much an enemy to be conquered as a force to be channeled” (ibid, p. 91).

Second, there is the lust of the eyes (that is: temptation comes through our senses – sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell). The eyes are an avenue for temptation to come our way (2 Samuel 11:2; Proverbs 6:25; Proverbs 23:31). The ears are another avenue (Proverbs 2:16; Proverbs 6:20-24; Proverbs 7:4-5). Smell may also lead to temptation (Proverbs 7:17; possibly Genesis 25:29-30). We need to be careful what we allow to come into our minds by these avenues (Job 31:1; Proverbs 23:31; Matthew 5:29; 2 Peter 2:14).

Third, there is the pride (vain-glory) of life. Most of us like to be liked. We want to have the comforts of this life. We want to receive the praise of men. We must decide whose praise is most important to us. In John 12:42-43 there were some who believed in Jesus, but they would not confess Him, “For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God”. Our aim needs to be to please God (over man). [Read 1 Thessalonians 2:4; Galatians 1:10; 2 Corinthians 5:9 NKJV]. Let us accept the truth that if we truly are what we should be, not all will speak well of us (Luke 6:26). Some have erred from the faith for the things of life (1 Timothy 6:9-10; Luke 8:14; 2 Timothy 4:10). False teachers some times play upon our desire to be admired (Jude 16).

Beware of how temptation comes to you. Tempting situations you can avoid, avoid. Those things which are unavoidable (natural, physical desires of the flesh) understand how such can be used to tempt you and be vigilant (1 Peter 5:8).

Posted in Man, Sin, Temptation, Textual study, Word Study | Tagged 1 John 2, James 1, lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh, senses, sin, temptation, the pride of life, use of word world, vainglory | Leave a comment

An Application of Philemon for the Modern Day

Posted on July 20, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The book of Philemon is a true story which touches the heart. Onesimus, a runaway slave, somehow while on the lam, came in contact with the imprisoned apostle Paul. Paul converted Onesimus (Philemon 10). Yet, there remained a problem: Onesimus was still a fugitive slave.

Paul sent him back (Philemon 12). This could have meant that he would face severe punishment, or worse, even death. Adam Clark correctly penned, “The Christian religion never cancels any civil relationship” – that is, which does not violate the law of Christ (Commentary vol. 6, p. 665). David Lipscomb similarly commented, “The Christian religion does not destroy the relations regulated by civil law. It sanctifies, makes the Christian use them… with the fidelity he would serve God” (Gospel Advocate Commentary Series, vol. 5, p. 298). Guy N. Woods well wrote, “Christianity does not remove moral, financial and legal obligations, it sanctifies them and establishes additional reasons why they should be honored (“Paul writes to His Friend Philemon,” Gospel Advocate, May 7, 1964, p. 298).

Paul was not heartless. He truly cared for Onesimus. He knew his master, Philemon. It’s likely that he had even converted him at some point in the past (Phile. 19). Therefore, Paul wrote to plead for mercy. He used the following points to persuade: (1) Onesimus may have never been profitable unto you, but he will be now (Philemon 11, 15-16). Note – the name Onesimus, itself, means profitable. He had not lived up to his name in time past, but he would now. (2) He has been a great help to me (v. 13). The suggestion shows that he is capable of work and service. (3) It may well be by God’s providence that he met up with me, and was converted (v. 15-16). (4) He is a “brother” in Christ (v. 16). Note – Paul earlier had referred to Philemon by the same term (v. 7). Yes, he is a slave; But he’s more, he is a brother with whom you may have fellowship forever more. (5) If you’ve suffered a financial loss due to him for which you demand justice, I will repay you (v. 18-19). Remember, what you yourself owe to me (1 Corinthian 9:11; Galatians 6:6). Do you understand the value of the Christian life? All else pales in comparison. (6) You doing the merciful thing would give me great joy, and I have confidence that you will go beyond what I am asking (v. 20-21).

Perhaps, Paul also showed his concern for Onesimus by having Tychicus accompany him in travel (Colossians 4:7-9). This may have been to help keep Onesimus from falling into the hands of the slave-catchers (suggested by Coffman in his commentary, Vol. 9 on New Testament, p. 354). It may have been to help keep Onesimus to have the courage to return. It may have been to help with intercession for Onesimus, and smooth the reception. Or, it may be that Tychicus was already traveling that way.

Modern Application

It is estimated that there are as many as 20 million illegal immigrants in this country. Pat Buchanan put this number in perspective saying, “If near the mark, we have millions more illegal aliens in the United States today than the sum total of all the Germans, Italians, Irish, and Jews who ever came to America in the four hundred years of our history on this continent.” (State of Emergency, p. 10-11). A 2004 Time Magazine article, “Who Left the Door Open?” concluded, “It’s fair to estimate… that the number of illegal aliens flooding into the U.S. this year will total 3 million – enough to fill 22,000 Boeing 737-700 aircraft, or 60 flights everyday for a year” (ibid, from Time magazine, Sept. 20, 2004).

Most of this is no doubt driven by economics. “Between 1940 and 1970, the population of Mexico more than doubled, from 20 million to 54 million. In those years, there was almost no migration to the United States from Mexico. Since 1970, however, some 65 million more Mexicans have been born – and about 20 million of them have migrated northward, with most of that migration occurring after 1980… In the 1940s, ‘50s, and ‘60s, the Mexican economy grew an average rate of almost 7 percent a year… since 1980, Mexico has averaged barely 2% growth. The average Mexican was actually poorer in 1998 than he had been in 1981” (The Melting Pot Boils Over, p. 29 from an article by David Frum). Mexico ranks 12th out of 212 countries in GNP; America ranks 1st (World Reference Atlas c. 1998). Per Capita Mexico ranks 80th out of 224 countries in GNP; America ranks 6th (www.studentsoftheworld.info). Mexico’s Per capita GDP is $5,000 compared to America’s which is more than $40,000 (Buchanan, p. 123). The reason so many want to come to this country, even illegally, is understandable.

Another thing driving it is America’s inconsistent and mixed message. The Federal Government calls it illegal (though I question their lack of aggressiveness in dealing with the situation), while some cities are ‘sanctuary cities’. The Federal Government says it’s illegal, but American companies hunger greedily for the cheap labor. In 1986 the Reagan administration put in place a plan which granted amnesty to 3 million illegals. The borders, however, were never secured. Thus, this fueled the desires of many more to come over illegally.

Now, let’s get some things straight. I am not anti-immigration. I am not suffering from Xenophobia (though some may be!!). I am not writing this from political motivation, or nationalism (though some do). I am not necessarily defending our immigration policies (in large measure our inconsistencies have created much of this mess).

Moreover, this is not written just about illegals from Mexico. I have heard of illegal and fraudulent immigration by Jamaicans. I saw a report on a television program recently about illegal immigration from India. Many from India have been brought over as guest workers for certain skilled or high-tech jobs (under the H-1B Visa). Many overstay their visas and do not return home. It is true that most illegal immigration is from Mexico, however illegal immigration comes from nearly everywhere.

The reason I believe this issue needs to be addressed is biblical. God’s people are to be subject unto the laws of the land (Romans 13:1-7; Titus 3:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-17). This we are to do so long as human law does not violate God’s law (Acts 4:1-20; 5:12-32). Consider two situations: (1) Some who illegally enter this country are converted once here. (2) Some who illegally enter this country are church members (that is: they were even before entry). Brother Cliff Martin, friend and Gospel Preacher in Jamaica, has told me that some Jamaican Christians would sell their soul to the devil to get to America. He said that they have been known to marry just to get to America, divorcing soon after arrival. One preacher married his cousin in a pre-planned scheme to gain U.S. citizenship; divorcing and going separate ways once the mission was accomplished. Some buy and used forged and fraudulent documents in order to gain employment once here.

Another problem is not illegal immigration by man’s laws, but is a related sin problem. It involves the breaking of promises, and the siphoning off of native preachers. Some impoverished church in Jamaica (or some other place) scrapes their money together to send one of their own to a school of preaching in America. The one sent promises to return home and labor in that same local church, or at least in that native land. However, upon completion of studies, it is common for the one here legally to decide not to return and look for a way to either become a U.S. citizen or at least maintain legal immigrant status. These are serious issues.

What should we do? (1) Like Paul did with Onesimus, we need to teach that obedience to the Gospel does not make their illegal status go away. (2) Like Paul, we need to encourage them to make things right. They either need to get immediate legal standing, or they need to go home. (3) Like Paul, we should be compassionate. We should do what we can to help in the situation. (4) We need to remind them that their soul is worth far more than the blessings that this country can offer (Mark 8:36-37; Hebrews 11:25; 12:14-17). (5) We should not knowingly employee illegals. We should not aid or abet criminal behavior. (6) If we don’t like the law, we should peacefully seek to change it. (7) Use this influx of illegals as an opportunity to convert souls to Christ. The mission field is here! Perhaps one-fifth of Mexico is here. “Los Angeles has the second largest Hispanic population of any city in the world. Chicago is the second largest Polish city. New York City has the second largest Puerto Rican population in the world. Also, more Jews are in New York City than in Tel Aviv, Israel.” (Gospel Advocate, June 1995, p. 13 – article Evangelistic Challenges in the United States by Everett Huffard). Chinatown in San Francisco is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia (artmam.net). There are more Jews in the United States than in all of Israel (www.simpletoremember.com).

It saddens me that so many churches seem to care more about the score board (attendance figures / contribution amount) than they do about teaching the truth on this subject.

It’s confusing to me how some would teach that adulterous unions must be severed, but they see not problem with illegals remaining illegals.

It is time that we go back and re-read this touching account of Onesimus’ situation as is told in the book of Philemon.

Something else: We should not assume that just because someone is of Mexican, or Central American origin that he’s illegal. Assuming this is nothing short of prejudice; And, no, we should not ask to see a “Green Card” before we allow one to worship with us!

Posted in Ethics, Government, Stats | Tagged cliff martin, evangelism, government, illegal immigration, racism, slavery | Leave a comment

Hidden Hunger: How’s Your Diet?

Posted on July 18, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Scurvy

In 1535, a French group of sailors, headed by Jacques Cartier wintered on the St. Lawrence River (near modern-day Montreal, Canada). The men developed scurvy.

“The word ‘scurvy’ means ‘scaly skin.’ This disease caused its victims to lose weight and grow weak. Gums bleed and teeth loosen. Sores do not heal. Connective fibers weaken that hold the body together. Victims of scurvy die as if they have come apart.”1

The natives came to aid. They prepared a drink made from pine needles soaked in water. Cartier’s men were brought back to health.

Scurvy remained a most dreaded disease. One man wrote, “In the 1700’s more sailors on British ships died of scurvy than of all other diseases, naval battles, and shipwrecks combined.”2

The problem was that ships lacked a way to keep food from spoiling in its natural form. Some foods were dried. Some foods were salted – salt pork, for example. But due to preservation difficulties sailor’s diets were often lacking in fresh fruits and vegetables. They were not receiving adequate quantities on a regular basis of vitamin C.

Dr. James Lind, a Scottish physician studied the situation. He was convinced that it was a nutritional deficiency that was causing scurvy. He recommended that the British sailors make landfall whenever possible for fresh food. He recommended then to gather oranges, lemons, and limes.

The British would especially become known for their having limes on board their ships, and their drinking lime juice for they found that limes kept better than other citrus fruits. This is why to this day British sailors are known as ‘limeys’.

Beriberi

In the 1800’s the Dutch East India Company set settlers in the orient. These settlers often became sick. They grew weak; paralysis set in; and finally death came (often due to heart failure).

Natives of the area called the disease beriberi. The word means “I cannot.”

The strange thing about this disease was that it affected the European settlers. However, the natives did not develop this disease. This was quite puzzling, since the Europeans lived in seemingly far better conditions than did the natives. The Europeans had better sanitary conditions than the natives. The Europeans ate, it seemed, far better on average than did the natives.

In 1886, a medical doctor by the name of Christiaan Eijkman, a Dutchman, went to Java to look into this matter. He discovered that the Europeans were eating only the fluffy white rice and not the common brown rice. The natives, on the other hand, ate the “poor” brown rice.

Eijkman discovered that when chickens had their diets switched from brown rice to the expensive white rice, they too came down with beriberi.

Eijkman had solved the problem. In 1929 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine.

We now know that beriberi is caused by a thiamine and vitamin B complex deficiency.

Other nutritional and vitamin deficiencies could be written of – e.g. rickets, Osteoporosis, etc.. However, the point is established: One can have a diet which consumes much quantities of food and still have an incomplete diet.

Application

We need to have a balanced diet from the word of God. I’ve met folks who were experts on some Bible point(s) but who had glaring deficiencies in their total Bible knowledge. Such is not good. I’ve seen Bible readers who read only their favorite sections of scripture, or favorite verses and have no idea how the Bible fits together, nor do they understand sometimes the immediate context of the chapter, or book, nor the total context of the New Testament or the Bible as a whole.

I’ve known of churches that have no educational curriculum plan for their children’s Bible classes. As a result the child, by the 12th grade may have heard about Noah, and Moses, and David dozens of times (as each teacher teaches only what they want) and have major portions of scripture which they have no familiarity at all with. Then some teachers only teach topics instead of texts and as a result the children never learn the Bible as they should. This is not good.

Some members only want to hear “positive” sermons. They don’t want to hear the “negative” things of the Bible. Such thinking leads to a spiritual nutritional deficiency.

Brethren, let us remember the words of Psalm 119:160, “The sum of thy Word is truth.” Let us feed richly upon all that God has revealed to us, and apply it to our lives. Someone has said, “A congregation convenes as a jury, not to convict Judas, Peter, or Solomon, but to judge themselves.”

Endnotes

1. John Hudson Tiner, Exploring the History of Medicine (MasterBooks, Green Forest, AR), c. 1999, p. 108

2. Ibid.

Posted in Bible Study, God`s word, Nature, Preaching, science | Tagged beriberi, Cartier, Eijkman, scurvy | 15 Comments

Voting

Posted on July 16, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Some church members have been duped into believing that Christian principles should be checked at the door of the voting booth. (1) Some have been told that the First Amendment requires this. It does no such thing. All the First Amendment does is to prevent the Federal Government from making laws respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. In the early proposals of the wording for this amendment, George Mason proposed, “no particular sect or society of Christians ought to be favored or established by law in preference to others.” James Madison proposed, “The civil rights of none shall be abridged on account of religious belief or worship nor shall any national religion be established.” Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story, who was appointed by James Madison, remarked, “We are not to attribute this [first amendment] prohibition of a national religious establishment to an indifference to religion in general…” The House Judicial Committee 1853-1854 commented, “What is an establishment of religion? … Had the people, during the Revolution had a suspicion of an attempt to war against Christianity, that Revolution would have been been strangled in its cradle. At the time of the adoption of the Constitution and the amendments, the universal sentiment was that Christianity should be encouraged, not any one sect…” The Senate Judiciary concurred saying, “What is meant by the expression? It referred, without a doubt, to the establishment which existed in the mother country… endowment, at public expense, in exclusion of or in preference to any other, by giving to its members exclusive political rights, and by compelling the attendance of those who rejected its communion upon its worship or religious observances.” Again, listen to Justice Story, “The real object of the First Amendment was not to countenance much less to advance, Mohometanism (sic), or Judaism, or infidelity by prostrating Christianity; but to exclude all rivalry among Christian sects.” Folks, the First Amendment has to do with the Federal Government favoring of a religion, not how you vote. (2) Others have been told that article 6 sec. 3 requires that we not use religious tests in selecting a candidate. It reads: “No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.” The religious test had to do with the Federal Government’s rules, not the individual voters. Moreover, many states did have requirements such as a belief in God, and a future state of reward and punishment. Yet, some of these same states had a no religious test law also in their constitution (see Tennessee Constitution, Article 8 sec. 2 cf. Article 11 sec. 4). A religious test under consideration is you must be (a Baptist, Methodist, Anglican, Catholic, etc.) of a certain religious group.

A true Christian should never check his Christianity at the door anywhere. What are some of the issues a Christian should consider when voting?

Guidelines to vote by:

1. Character matters – Exodus 18:21, “Thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness [unjust gain ASV] and place such over them to be rulers…” Such was the ruler under the Old Testament.

1 Timothy 3:10 – “Let these also first be proved; then let them use the office…” According to 1 Timothy 3:6, “Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he falls into condemnation of the devil.” Those New Testament passages are speaking of the qualifications of deacons and elders; But perhaps these principles will help.

2. Respect for God – Leaders of a nation should fear God (Exodus 18:21). They should understand they are accountability before the Almighty. Exodus 23:6-7 warns, “Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause. Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked.” 2 Chronicles 19:6-7 admonishes, “Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not a man, but for the Lord… wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you…” Psalm 82 reminds judges that one day they will appear the Judge. Yes, both the small and great are accountable (Revelation 20:12).

3. Desire for truth/discerner of truth – A good leader will not surround himself with sycophants and “yes men” who tell him only what he wants to hear. “Righteous lips are the delight of kinds, and they love him who speaks what is right” (Proverbs 16:13 NKJV). “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” (Proverbs 27:5). Read also Proverbs 26:28; 29:12.

4. Care for poor/weak of society – David desired of Solomon, “He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment… He shall judge the poor of the people; he shall save the children of the needy and break into pieces the oppressor… For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper. He shall spare the poor and the needy and save the soul of the needy” (Psalm 72:2, 4, 12, 13). Also read Psalm 82:3-4).

5. Judges should be fair – Psalm 82:2-4 asks, “How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Defend the poor and the fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and the needy. Deliver the poor and the needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.” Exodus 23:6 admonishes, “Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause. Deuteronomy 16:18-19, “… they shall judge the people with just judgment. Thou shalt nor wrest judgment; Thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.” Proverbs 31:9 pleads, “Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” The Bible has much to say about the work of judges.

Judges are not to show respect of persons (Exodus 23:3; Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 16:19; 2 Chronicles 19:6-7). This fairness is to work both ways: Neither the rich nor the poor are to be favored (Leviticus 19:15; cf. Exodus 23:3). Note: Some do favor the rich over the poor; and some do favor the poor over the rich.

Judges are to take no bribes or gifts (1 Samuel 8:1-3; 12:3; 2 Chronicles 9:6-7; Isaiah 5:23; 33:14-15; Amos 5:12; Proverbs 17:23). And yes, this principle is still in place (Matt. 7:12 cf. Acts 10:34-35; 1 Peter 1:17).

6. Law makers are to make just laws – Isaiah 10:1-2 pronounces, “Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and write grievousness which they prescribed; to turn aside the needy from judgment, and to take away the right of the poor of my people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless!” It is wrong to make laws to legally rob the weak.

Proverbs 29:4 teaches, “The King by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts [take bribes NASB; receives bribes NKJV] overthrow it.” Lawmakers who make laws to receive gifts from special interest groups are in violation of this teaching (cf. Matthew 7:12).

7. Punishment of the wicked – One of government’s primary duties is to protect the innocent. Psalm 101:8; David says: “I will early [morning by morning ASV] destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the city…” Proverbs 20:26 NASB, “A wise King winnows the wicked, and drives the threshing wheel over them” (cf. Proverbs 20:8). The New Testament also teaches the authority of governments to punish wrongdoing, even to the point of death (Romans 13:1-4; cf. Acts 26:11).

Governments need to punish criminals. Ecclesiastes 8:11 reads, “Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.”

8. It’s not “the economy stupid” – Proverbs 16:8 reads, “Better is a little righteousness than great revenues without right.” The economy boomed under Jeroboam II, yet it doesn’t appear that God was impressed (2 Kings 14:23-29).

I would remind you that Benito Mussolini made the trains run on time. Clearly a Christian should have more under consideration than just the economy. Yes, the economy matters, but it is not the only issue, or even the most important.

Having said this, a good ruler is considerate of economic issues. It was a burdensome tax rate that led to a revolt in the days of Rehoboam (1 Kings 12).

9. Care of creation – Various passages indicate that man should be good stewards of the things of this earth (Deut. 20:19 – 20; 22:6-7; 23:12 – 13; 25:4; Prov. 12:10; Matt. 14:20; 15:37; Mark 6:43; 8:8; Luke 9:17; John 6:12-13).

Remember that according to the Bible: A. Land may be used to build (Jer. 29:5; Matt. 21:33), to cultivate (Genesis 2:5; 3:19; 4:2; Job 1:14; 1 Kings 19:19; Jeremiah 4:3; Hosea 10:12; Matthew 13:3ff; James 5:2), and to extract resources (Genesis 21:25ff; Job 3:21; Proverbs 2:4; John 4:6ff). B. Plants may be used for food (Genesis 1:29; 3:2; Deuteronomy 26; Matthew 12:1, 2; 21:19 – 20; Luke 13:6ff; 1 Corinthians 9:7), shade (1 Kings 4:25; Jon. 4:5ff; Micah 4:4), lumber (Deuteronomy 19:5; 1 Kings 5:6; Isaiah 44:14 – 15) and fire (Isaiah 44:14 – 15). C. Animals may be used for food (Genesis 9:3; Luke 11:11 – 12; John 21: 5-6, 9-12; Acts 10:9ff; 1 Timoth 4:1-5), clothing (Genesis 3:21; Job 31:19 – 20; Matthew 3:4), produce – such as eggs, milk and wool (Genesis 18:8; Job 6:6; Proverbs 27:23, 27; Luke 11:11 – 12) work and transportation (Deuteronomy 25:4; 1 Kings 19:19; John 12:14, 15; Acts 8:28-31). Man is even allowed to kill animals to protect or defend property or person (Exodus 21:28; 23:29; 1 Samuel 17:34-37; Acts 28:3-5). Numerous passages teach that man is of greater worth than animals (Matthew 6:26; 10:29 – 31; 12:11 – 12; 18:12-14; Luke 13:5 -6; 14:1-5; 15:1-7).

10. Values the sanctity of human life – The Bible uses the same word for what is in the womb and for what is out of the womb (Luke 1:41, 44 cf. 2:12). What is in the womb is called life (Exodus 21:22-25). The fetus possesses all the characteristics of life. Moreover, there is no authority for us to destroy the unborn, scripturally speaking.

This is a great issue of our day. Since Roe v. Wade, 45 million babies have been slaughtered. This number is roughly equivalent to the combined populations of Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming – 24 states!

11. Values the “traditional home” – God designed the home (Genesis 1; 2; Matthew 19: Hebrews 13:4). We should support those who what to see marriage limited to one man and one woman.

There is a vigorous push to change things. Some desire homosexual marriages. If this is allowed, then polygamy must also be logically allowed. Once polygamy is allowed, why not group marriages, as well, be fully recognized and legitimized by the government.

12. Understand that one can legislate morality – the words “You can’t legislate morality” were originally used to mean you can criminalize behavior, but you can’t make a man inwardly moral. For instance, you can criminalize discrimination. But you can’t legislate against a racist heart.

I do agree that man can’t legislate the inward thoughts and feelings. John Quincy Adams, “Human legislators can undertake only to prescribe the actions of men, they acknowledge their inability to govern and direct the sentiments of the heart… It is one of the greatest marks of Divine favor… that the Legislator gave… rules not only of action but for the government of the heart.” Thomas Jefferson, “(Jesus) pushed his scrutinizes into the heart of man, erected his tribunal in the region of his thoughts, and purified the waters at the fountainhead.”

However, listen to Dr. Sterling Lacy, “’Morality’ is defined as the condition of conforming to right principles… to ‘legislate’ means to make laws… What law has ever been erected by any government in the history of man that has not named something wrong and its opposite right… what today’s critics are saying is ‘we don’t want God to have anything to do with today’s morality. We want to determine what is right and wrong. America has become the battle ground between the world’s two oldest religions. The first worships God. The second worships man. It is a question of which religious guidelines will undergird the legislation.”

Now I am certainly not saying that everything that is wrong according to the Bible should be criminalized by man’s laws. But I am saying one can legislate morality. Murder, theft, rape, are all legislated against, and they are moral issues.

13. Party loyalty or Christian principles – A Christian should never be so loyal to a political party that he/she votes the party line regardless of the issues. I am convinced that if Jesus was on one ticket and the devil on the other, some would cast their vote for the devil due to party loyalty. Don’t be like that.

14. Remember that ultimately the best way to change society is not by the vote – it is by Christians quietly working to turn their friends, loved ones, neighbors, and even their enemies to Christ.

I’m afraid that some think that they have defended right simply by voting. Brethren, are we out preaching the message near and far? This needs to be done as well and more so! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if folks were as zealous about teaching the truth, exalting Christ, and winning souls as they were about the political process?

Final Thoughts

1. “When the righteous are in authority the people rejoice: but when the wicked bear rule, the people mourn.” (Proverbs 29:2)

2. “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34).

3. The voting process is extremely important. James A. Garfield, “People are responsible for the character of Congress. If that body be ignorant reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave, and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities… if the next centennial does not find us a great nation… it will be because those who represent the enterprise, the culture, and the morality of the nation do not aid in controlling the political forces.” Abraham Lincoln opined, “The ballot is stronger than the bullet.” Thomas Jefferson mused, “Perhaps this (political) party division is necessary to induce each (party) to watch and relate to the people.” John Jay, first Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, said, “The Americans are the first people whom heaven has favored with an opportunity of deliberating upon and choosing the forms of government which they should live.” Again, “Providence has given to our people the choice of rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.” Constitutional signer, Richard Dobbs Spaight said, “I do not suppose an infidel, or any such person, will ever be chosen to any office unless the people themselves be of the same opinion.” James Iredell, Supreme Court justice appointed by George Washington, remarked, “But it is objected that the people of America may perhaps choose representatives who have no religion at all, and that pagans and Mahometans (sic) may be admitted into office… But it is never to be supposed that the people of America will trust their dearest rights to persons who have no religion at all, or a religion materially different from their own.” (If they could see what we’ve done now!)

Posted in Abortion, Ethics, Government, History, Homosexuality, Priorities, Stats, stewardship | Tagged 1 Peter 1:17, 1 Samuel 12:3, 1 Samuel 8:1-3, 1 Timothy 3:10, 1 Timothy 3:6, 2 Chronicles 19:6-7, 2 Chronicles 9:6-7, 2 kings 14:234-29, Abortion, Abraham Lincoln, Acts 10:34-35, Acts 26:11, Amos 5:12, article 6 sec. 3, atheism, ballot stronger than bullet, benito mussolini, brides, care for poor, care for weak, care of creation, character, chief justice story, civics, david's desire for solomon, desire for truth, Deuteronomy 16:18-19, Deuteronomy 16:19, discerning truth, dr. sterling lacy, Ecclesiastes 8:11, econpmy, Exodus 18:21, Exodus 23:3, Exodus 23:6, Exodus 23:6-7, fear God, first amendment, george mason, george washington, gifts, government, house judicial committee 1853-1854, Isaiah 10:1-2, Isaiah 33:14-15, Isaiah 5:23, isalm, james garfield, james iredell, james madison, Jeroboam II, john jay, john quincy adams, joseph story, judaism, judges, justice, lawmakers, legislating morality, Leviticus 19:15, marriage, Matthew 7:12, party loyalty or Christian principles, political parties, polygamy, Poverbs 16:13, Priverbs 16:18, Probers 17:23, Proverbs 14:34, Proverbs 20:26, Proverbs 20:8, Proverbs 26:28, Proverbs 27:5, Proverbs 29:12, Proverbs 29:4, Proverbs 31:9, Psalm 101:8, Psalm 72, Psalm 82, punish criminals, punishment of wicked, racism, Rehoboam, religious tests, respect for God, respect of persons, Revelation 20:12, richard dobbs, richard dobbs spaight, richard spaight, roe v wade numbers, roe v. wade, Romans 13:1-4, sanctity of life, senate judiciary, separation church and state, stats, stewardship, supreme court, sycophants, taxes, Tennessee constitution, the economy stupid, thomas jefferson, traditional home, use of animals, use of land, use of plants, value of life, voting | 3 Comments

Most of My Heroes Are Gone! (Does Anyone Want to do Right Anymore?)

Posted on July 13, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Shame! Shock! Sadness! This is what I felt, when I heard reports on the national TV news of one of my former Bible instructors being accused, confessing, and eventually being arrested for molesting small children. Such is sick. This was a mild-mannered man who I’d never have suspected of such. There it was, another story that makes the church a reproach before the public.

Then there was a preacher’s wife murdered her husband. This story hasn’t gone away yet. The church was negatively portrayed. This is not exactly the kind of publicity we want.

A very prominent Christian apologist among us was involved in a homosexual scandal with interns and others. Folks, these reports are all over the internet. How badly we look!

I reminisce about the shameful things I have heard of in my years of preaching (over the greater part of the last two decades). I have heard of preachers (some of them friends) committing adultery, and even leaving their families for a new life and a new wife. I have heard of preacher’s wives committing adultery, and leaving their husbands for a new life. In one case this woman had been married for over 40 plus years, but ran off with another man. I have heard of preachers being charged with possession and even trafficking illegal drugs. Numerous money fraud and embezzlement scandals have come to my ears. I’ve even heard of a preacher and an elder’s wife running off together. Many of these men and women I knew at least on some level. Some were friends. Some were heroes.

These shocking scandals are becoming all too common, but it is not just the modern-day scandals. I remember reading a letter from a preacher of a generation ago, a hero of many and a familiar name to nearly all church members. However, he wrote extremely racist, and hateful remarks. I do not believe that he made it to heaven, unless he repented, truly changing his heart.

Such behavior disappoints, weakens, and even destroys the faith of some. Proverbs 25:19 says, “Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.” One man wrote, “such hypocrisy and misconduct are hard pills to swallow even for fellow believers. But put yourself in the place of the person who already is struggling with doubts not only about the system of belief, but about the God behind the system. From their vantage point, when the system ‘fails’ (i.e. when its adherents are unable to conform to it successfully in their own lives), what, then, shall be said about the God behind the system?” (The Many Faces, and Causes of Unbelief by Bert Thompson, p. 102-103). James Bales has written, “The corruption, or short comings, or the hypocrisy in the lives of some believers have been used to justify the rejection of Christianity. They are viewed as adequate samples of the faith, and since the samples are not good, the faith is viewed as bad “(How Can We Believe? By J.D. Bales, p. 49).

So what do we do when we see or hear of such things? What lessons can we learn to help us in this matter? What should we know to help us stay on track?

1. Preachers are just humans like all others. There is only one perfect example that ever existed. Jesus said, “He that followed me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). The best Paul could say is that men could follow him as he followed Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). Neither the local preacher, nor the elders, but Christ alone is the perfect example.

2. True faith should not be built upon an attraction to some mere mortal. Some people are attracted to the church due to a closeness to a friend, or a loved one, and if that friend or loved one, or preacher disappoints faith is shattered. But such is not true faith. The Bible says, “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). When studying with people, let us be sure to help the student develop true faith and not just an attraction to us as good, loving and kind people. Faith in God and His word is what they need.

3. Guard your influence. Whether you know it or not, your behavior has influence. One’s behavior can cause others to glorify God (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12), or blaspheme His Holy name (Romans 2:23-24; 1 Timothy 6:1; Titus 2:3-5). Truth can be suppressed due to unrighteousness (Romans 1:18 NASB). Our influence can lead others to Christ (1 Peter 3:1-6). Someone has written:

“I am my neighbor’s Bible; He reads me when we meet.

Today he read me in my home; Tomorrow in the street.

He may be relative or friend; Or slight acquaintance be.

He may not even know my name, Yet, he is reading me.

Dear Christian friends and brothers, If we could only know,

How faithful the world records, just what we say and do.

Oh, how we would make Our record plain,

And labor hard to see, Our worldly neighbors

Won to Christ, While reading you and me.”

Another has said, “We are the only Bible this careless world may ever read, what if the lines are crooked, what if the type is blurred.” Even our appearance we need to guard; we don’t want to send the wrong message (2 Corinthians 8:21). To cause a person to stumble and be lost is a terrible thing. Read carefully Matthew 18:6. Let us never seek to do anything which would bring reproach and despite unto Christ and His church.

4. We need to have determination. Joshua 24:15 reads, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve… but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Jehovah – ASV).” This is the type determination needed. In the song: I Have Decided to Follow Jesus, these words appear, “Tho none go with me, I still will follow; Tho none go with me, I still will follow; Tho none go with me, I still will follow; No turning back, no turning back”

5. Keep in mind that the pleasures of sin do not last. The pleasures of sin are but for a season (Hebrews 11:25; Proverbs 20:17). The things which are seen are temporary; the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:16-5:1). Don’t trade your soul for a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:29-34).

6. Folks, in many of these cases, I am not speaking of good men and women who were striving to live the Christian life, but had a momentary stumble, or lapse in judgment. Such describes the best of men. (It has been said that, “He is a poor preacher who cannot preach better than he practices; But he is a poorer preacher who does not strive hard to live up to what he preaches). Instead, I am in many cases talking about a lifestyle of egregious sin which becomes discovered. Many are skilled in hiding who they truly are. Let us remember, “God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be bad” (Ecclesiates 12:14). Paul speaks of a day “when God shall judge the secrets of men” (Romans 2:16). Even if we could hide all from our fellow-man we can’t hide it from God (Proverbs 15:3; 1 Timothy 5:24-25). He knows what we do when no one else is around. He knows even our thoughts (Psalm 139).

7. In most cases, no doubt those mentioned were at one time sincerely trying to live righteously. However, over time things changed within; their focus was lost. This should warn each of us to “take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). Hebrews 2:1 says, “We ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.”

8. Hypocrisy is not really justification for unbelief. One writer explains, “It has been said that ‘hypocrisy is the tribute that vice pays to virtue.’ Put another way, it is contradictory for an unbeliever to attempt to justify his unbelief by pointing out hypocrisy in someone else. The very fact that the unbeliever is willing to label the believer a ‘hypocrite’ proves that he is aware of the fact that the believer is not measuring up to the high standards of the system he professes to follow. By suggesting that a believer is a hypocrite, the unbeliever implies that there is a system of belief that, when properly adhered to, would legitimize the conduct of the believer” (The Faces of Unbelief, p. 104). James Bales put it this way, “When an individual accuses another of being a hypocrite, he is appealing to a standard of integrity. He is saying that it is wrong to be hypocrite… Those who hold to a world view which justifies the acceptance of moral law can consistently oppose hypocrisy. Those whose world view rules out moral law cannot be consistent and accept a standard which says hypocrisy is wrong” (ibid).

9. I believe what we are seeing is symptomatic of the cultural corruption we have experienced as a nation over the last several decades. We live in a sin-sick world. What evils are in the world are also having an influence upon church members. We live in a sex-saturated, money mad, self-obsessed, narcissistic society. We may live in this world; but may we ever be cautious not to be of this world (John 8:23-24; 15:18-19; 17:15-16).

10. In many funerals the preacher “preaches the departed into heaven”. Folks, I may have confidence that a person had the hope of heaven based upon observation of the person. However, in reality only God knows all that’s gone on with that person (some things are hidden) and whether the person has truly repented. Read 1 Timothy 5:24-25.

Conclusion: I want to go to heaven. I hope that you do too. Pledge with me that “I will strive hard to never do anything which brings reproach or causes the church to be despised and disgraced in the eyes of this community (and beyond). I will not trade my soul for a bowl of stew. I will guard my influence and strive to help, not hinder people in the Christian life.”

Posted in Christian Influence, Dedication, Faith, Sin | Tagged fallen brethren, hypocrites, neighbor's Bible, song | Leave a comment

Was Jesus Really Raised?

Posted on July 11, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The whole of Christianity rests upon the resurrection of Jesus. If he was not raised, Paul admits, “then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain” (1 Corinthians 15:14 cf. v. 17). He went on to say, “But now is Christ risen from the dead” (1 Corinthians 15:20). He affirmed that Jesus was “declared to be the Son of God… by the resurrection from the dead” (Romans 1:4).

Have you ever noticed how many times the New Covenant affirms Jesus’ resurrection? The following is a list, that I’ve compiled, in which Jesus’ resurrection is affirmed: Matthew 28:6, 7; Mark 16:6, 9, 14; Luke 24:6, 34; John 2:22; 21:14; Acts 1:22; 2:31, 32; 3:15, 26; 4:2, 10, 33; 5:30; 10:40; 13:30, 33, 34, 37; 17:18, 31, 32; 23:6; 24:21; Romans 1:4; 4:24, 25; 6:4, 5, 9; 7:4; 8:11; 10:9; 14:9; 15:12; 1 Corinthians 6:14; 15:4, 12, 15, 20; 2 Corinthians 4:14; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 1:20; Philippians 3:10; Colossians 2:12; 3:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:8; 1 Peter 1:3, 21; 3:21. Clearly, the resurrection is a central message in early preaching, and in the New Covenant.

Moreover, Jesus prophesied that He would be raised (Matthew 12:39-40; 16:21; 17:22-23; 20:17-19; Mark 8:31; 9:31; 10:33-34; Luke 9:22; 18:31-33; 24:6-8; John 2:19-22). Even His opponents understood what He meant (Matthew 27:62-66). Jesus’ own credibility rests upon His resurrection (cf. Deuteronomy 18:22). Two things did the early Christians and non-Christians agree upon mutually. (1) The both agreed that he died. The apostles preached such (Acts 2:36; 3:15; 1 Corinthians 1:18, 23; 2:2). The Roman historian Tacitus (A.D. 112) said that Christ, “…was put to death by Pontius Pilate, Procurator of Judea in the reign of Tiberias” (Annals, 15:44). The Talmud speaks of Jesus of Nazareth as “a transgressor in Israel, who practiced magic, scorned the words of the wise, led people astray… He was hanged on Passover Eve for heresy, and misleading the people” (F.F. Bruce, The New Testament Documents: Are they reliable? p. 101). (2) The both agree that the body of Jesus was missing. It did not stay in the tomb. The Bible makes clear that His enemies knew this (Matthew 28:11-15). Justin Martyr wrote in his Dialogue with Trypho (A.D. 165) of a letter that the Jewish community had circulated concerning the empty tomb. The letter said of Jesus, “A godless and lawless heresy had sprung from one Jesus, a Galilaean deceiver, whom we crucified, but his disciples stole him by night from the tomb where he was laid when unfastened from the cross, and now deceive men by asserting that he has risen from the dead and ascended to heaven” (chapter 108 quoted by Kyle Butt and Eric Lyon in Behold! The Lamb of God, p. 139-140). Another Jewish writing, Toledoth Yeshu (6th century A.D.) written to discredit Jesus say, “A diligent search was made and he (Jesus – B.H.) was not found in the grave where he had been buried. A gardener had taken him from the grave… (ibid, p. 140).

What happened to the body? Was Jesus raised from the dead?

Explanation #1:

He really wasn’t resurrected; The disciples just imagined, or hallucinated it.

This does not seem to be an adequate explanation. Jesus was seen by a multitude of people [1. Mary Magdalene (Mark 16:9; John 20:14-18); 2. Other women (Matthew 28:9-10); 3. Two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Mark 16:12-13; Luke 24:13-32); 4. Simon (Luke 24:33-35; 1 Corinthians 15:5); 5. Ten disciples, without Thomas (Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19, 25); 6. Eleven disciples, with Thomas (Mark 16:14; John 20:26-29); 7. Seven disciples at the Sea Tiberius (John 21:1-24); 8. Eleven disciples on mount in Galilee (Matthew 28:16-20); 9. Over five hundred brethren at once (1 Corinthians 15:6); 10. James, thought to be Jesus’ half-brother (1 Corinthians 15:7); 11. The disciples at ascension (Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:44-53; Acts 1:3-11)]. Some of these who saw Him, knew Him well (1 John 1:1; 2 Peter 1:16). These appearances occurred at different times, and places, to different people, over a period of forty days (Acts 1:3).

Gary Habermas has written, “Hallucinations are comparably rare. They’re usually caused by drugs or bodily deprivation. Chances are, you don’t know anybody who’s ever had a hallucination not caused by one of these two things. Yet, we’re supposed to believe that over the course of many weeks, people from all sorts of backgrounds, all kinds of temperments, in various places, all experienced hallucinations” (quoted by Lee Strobel in The Case for Christ, p. 239).

Moreover, imagination or hallucination would not explain the missing body. Remember, on this point of the body being missing there was agreement.

Explanation #2:

Perhaps, the disciples fabricated the story. That is: they simply made up the story of the resurrection.

Why would they do so? (1) Financial gain? This does not seem likely. Paul was educated at the feet of Gamaliel, the greatest legal scholar in Israel of that day (Acts 22:3). He had contact with the highest officials in his nation (Acts 9:1-2; 22:5; 26:10). He said, “I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation” (Galatians 1:14 NKJV). His record was well-known to all Jews (Acts 26:4). He may have been a Judge (Acts 26:10 – The words “I gave my voice” are literally, “I cast down my pebble.” In court a white pebble was cast down for acquittal, a black pebble for condemnation. The NASB and the question a rising star in Israel (Acts 22:3-5; 26:3-4; Gal. 1:13-14; Phil. 3:4-8). Yet, Paul gave all of this up by becoming a Christian. He wrote, “What things were gain to me, those I count loss for Christ. Yea, doubtless, I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord; for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ” (Philippians 3:7-8). As a preacher, Paul often times had to support himself with his hands (Acts 18:3; 20:33-35; 1 Thessalonians 2:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-8). He told the elders from Ephesus, “I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me” (Acts 20:33-34). Paul wasn’t even supported by those at Corinth (1 Corinthians 9; 2 Corinthians 11). (2) Physical comfort? Certainly not! Paul was stoned at Lystra and left for dead (Acts 14:19). He caused a riot at Ephesus (Acts 19). He described his hardships – “Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and day I have been in the deep. In journeying often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by my own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren. In weariness, and painfulness, in watching often, in hunger and thirst, in fasting often, in cold and nakedness” (2 Corinthians 11:24-27). ). Think of others: Stephen was stoned to death (Acts 7:59-8:2); James was killed with the sword (Acts 12:2). Extra-Biblical writings indicate that of the twelve, only John did not suffer martyrdom. Yet, he did not have it easy. He was exiled to the isle of Patmos (Revelation 1:9). (3) Popularity? I don’t think so! Paul, upon conversion was alienated from Israel’s elite. Three years after his conversion, some in the church still did not trust him (Acts 9:26 cf. Galatians 1:18). His preaching did not always please his own brethren (Galatians 4:16). The message was not always popular (Luke 6:26; Galatians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:4).

Moreover, if the story was fabricated – why would they be willing to die for a lie? Many people will die for their religious beliefs if they sincerely believe them true. But not if they know that it is a made up lie. Pamela Binning Ewen, “Whether or not we believe that the events reported by the authors of the four Gospels are true, it is clear from their own conduct by the fact that they were willing to suffer the rest of their lives and even die for the right to teach that these events occurred, that they were truthful in their testimony at least insofar as they believed it to be so. People do not (ordinarily anyway – B.H.) die for what they know to be untrue – for a lie” (Faith on Trial, p.90).

Further, there is still one other problem. What happened to the body?

Explanation #3:

Maybe, the disciples did steal the body. This is what was reported (Matthew 28:11-15).

How would they have done this? The tomb was guarded by a “watch” or “guard” of soldiers (Matthew 27:65; 28:11). Evidently, several were on duty at any given time (Matthew 28: 4, 11). The tomb was sealed with a massive stone (Mark 16:3-4). Stones weighing several tons are known to have been used to seal some tombs. How would they have moved the massive stone without gaining the attention of the soldiers?

The guards explanation is suspicious (Matthew 28:13). All would have had to be asleep at the same time. If asleep, how did they know the disciples stole the body? If they woke up in time to see, they certainly could have given chase. How quickly could they have moved carrying the body?

Further, how does one explain the grave-clothes? The custom of that day was for the body to be wrapped in clothing (bandages) and sticky spices (John 11:44; The Resurrection of Jesus Christ Historical… or Mythological by Edward Wharton, p. 15-16; Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, ‘Grave Clothing’, p. 323). It was according to this custom that Jesus was buried (John 19:38-40). However in the empty tomb we find the grave-clothes left behind. “William Barclay, professor of New Testament at Glasgow University, and renowned as a scholar of the New Testament Greek, insists that the clothes were lying in their folds.’ That is, they were in a cocoon type shell as if Jesus had simply passed through them without disturbance!” (Ed Wharton, p. 15). The handkerchief that had been around his head had been folded up (John 20:4-7). Why would thieves do such? Wouldn’t it be faster, and easier just to take the body, clothing and all? Ed Wharton writes, “The question which must be answered is this. Who unwrapped Jesus, in unhurried manner rolled up the face napkin, then painstakingly, and with the skill of an artist, rewrapped those sticky grave-clothes back into their original shape so perfectly that they appeared as if they had not been tampered with? And all of this went unobserved… who can believe it? (ibid, p. 16).

Next, and most importantly – how do you explain the disciples change in courage? Prior to the resurrection, the disciples were a frightened, discouraged, dispirited bunch (Matt. 26:56). Peter denied Jesus three times (Matthew 26:69-75). The met behind closed doors due to fear (John 20:19). After the resurrection, they were emboldened to give witness, suffer imprisonment, and even death for the cause of Christ. Notice the change (Mark 14:50, 70-71; cf. Acts 4:17-21; 5:27-29).

Explanation #4: Maybe, they bribed the guards.

Such will not work! Guards of that day knew that to have missing, what you were posted to guard, ordinarily meant great punishment, even death (see Acts 12:19; 16:26-27; 27:42).

Moreover, this wouldn’t explain the fact that the disciples were willing to die for this. Rational people do not die for what they know to be a hoax.

Explanation #5:

Perhaps Jesus wasn’t really dead. He suffered on the cross, but was taken down before death. He was placed in the tomb, and three days later he was recovered enough from his injuries to leave under his own strength.

Remember, the soldiers declared him dead (John 19:31-34). They even thrust a spear into his side, which likely was in effort to verify his death; And, from his side flowed water and blood. “Most medical experts agree that this is an accurate description of what would have been observed, since water would have come from the pericardium surrounding the heart, and the blood from the right side of the heart. Some medical experts have observed that the water could also have been fluid accumulated in the lungs as a result of the beatings that Jesus suffered. All agree that this is strong proof of death” (Faith on Trial, by Pamela Ewen, p. 131). Who can believe this recovery story? “It is ludicrous to suppose that after suffering a night of anxiety so extreme as to cause sweat of blood, no sleep, a lack of food or water, beatings, a scourging, the labor of carrying his own cross to Golgotha, a crucifixion during which he was nailed to a cross for hours and then pierced with a lance, and thereafter being wrapped in one hundred pounds of spices, and placed in a cold tomb for the night, that Jesus could have lived. Scourging alone was almost a sentence of death” (ibid, p. 164). Further, he would have had to move the massive stone and sneak away unspotted, never to be apprehended again.

[Note: Some have wondered just how large this stone really was which would have had to be moved. Brad Bromling has written, “Someone might contend that the stone could not have been too heavy since Joseph rolled it in place by himself (Matthew 27:60). But this is only partially correct. The stones used for this purpose were often set in a sloping groove with the low point in front of the tombs opening. While it may have taken many men to move and scotch the stone up and away from the doorway prior to burial, one man easily could have removed the block and allowed gravity to draw the stone down the slope into its proper resting position. Also, it is possible that the stone was set in place by a number of men under the direction of Joseph. After all, when we say that Alexander conquered the world, we do not mean that he did so without the aid of an army… while we may never know (how large the stone was – B.H.), it is safe to assume that four women could move a fairly large stone without help; yet, apparently the force needed to move this stone exceeded (they supposed – B.H.) their combined strength (Mark 16:3) “(Brad Bromling, What Happened to the Body, Reason and Revelation, vol. 13, no. 5)].

This ‘swoon theory’ is a late comer to the alternative explanations. It seems to have been first advanced in 1768 (by Peter Annet). One can assert many things, but where is the sustaining evidence? One could just as easily assert that space aliens took the body of Jesus. But to assert is not to prove.

Explanation #6:

Maybe the Romans, or the Jews removed the body for security purposes.

This seems a very weak argument. If such is the explanation, then why did they not ever produce it to end the controversy. It would have been in their interest to silence the Christians.

Explanation #7:

Maybe the woman went to the wrong tomb.

The women had witnessed where his body was laid (Matthew 27:61; Mark 15:47; Luke 23:55). But, it certainly is possible for human beings to make mistakes. Note: This would not be one individual going mistakenly to the wrong tomb, but a minimum of four individuals who were mistaken (Luke 24:10).

If they did make a mistake, then why didn’t Joseph point it out (it was his tomb – Matthew 27:57-60; Mark 15:43, 15:43-46; Luke 23:50-53; John 19:38-42)? Why didn’t the Romans, or the Jews expose the error?

Moreover, this would not explain the appearances of Jesus claimed by the people. Simon Greenleaf, “They had every possible motive to review carefully the grounds of their faith, and the evidences of the great facts and truths which they asserted and these motives were pressed upon their attention with the most melancholy and terrific frequency” (The Testimony of the Evangelists, p. 32). They truly must have been convinced.

Explanation # 8:

Maybe they crucified the wrong man.

The one arrested claimed to be the Christ (Mark 14:61-62). He spoke with Mary, the mother of Jesus, from the cross (John 19:26). The Romans and the Jews were certain that they had the correct one.

Further, if they had the wrong man, you would have to believe that Jesus appeared to them for forty days (Acts 1:3), and then disappeared from their sight and earthly history. He was again never spotted.

Also, it would not explain what the disciples felt in examining Jesus (Read John 20:24-28). They were so convinced that they went from skeptics to ready and willing to die for the cause. This includes not just Thomas, and the apostles (who were slow to believe – Mark 16:9-11, 14; Luke 24:9-11; John 20:25); But, also, James – the half-brother of Jesus (John 7:5 cf. Acts 1:14; 12:17a; 15:13; 21:18; Galatians 1:19; 2:9; James 1:1; Jude 1). Josephus mentions James’ martyrdom. Also, Paul went from an enemy of Christianity (Acts 9:1-ff; 22:4-ff; 26:9-ff; Galatians 1:13, 23; Philippians 3:5) to a Gospel preacher.

Moreover, you still have to explain the missing body, whose ever body it was which had been in the tomb.

Explanation #9:

Maybe an animal, such as a dog or jackal, removed the corpse from the tomb. This has actually been suggested! (by Dominic Crossan).

God’s providence removes this as a reasonable possibility. The tomb was not dug into earth’s soil. It was hewn in stone (Matthew 27:60; Mark 15:46; Luke 23:53). If Jesus had received the common criminal burial, he might have been thrown into a shallow common grave in the dirt. Instead, Joseph of Arimathea provided a sepulchre out of rock.

This also saves us from another difficulty (cf. 2 Kings 13:21). This tomb had never been used (Luke 23:53).

Explanation #10:

Perhaps the gardener did steal the body.

One can assert many things. But where’s the evidence? Was this gardener ever tried or convicted for grave robbery?

Further, what about the alleged appearances. Did the disciples lie? What of their zeal? They were ready to die for the proclamation of the resurrection. They must have believed.

Conclusion: We’ve examined all of the common alternative explanations. They are lacking credibility.

Only one option seems reasonable. He is risen.

Do you believe? If you do it will radically change your life, even as it did those in the early church.

Posted in Apologetics, Evidence, Faith, Jesus | Tagged apologetics, evidence, Jesus, Jesus' rsurrection | Leave a comment

The Passing of Time

Posted on July 9, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Do we appreciate, as we should, how rapidly time passes? When I was in Panama, on a past trip in the year 2000, a couple of things brought me face to face with the sobering truth that time really “flies.”

The first attention grabber came from Chico. My father had converted Chico in the early 1970’s. I was reunited with Chico on this most recent trip on a Saturday afternoon. He was cleaning the church building. Upon seeing me, he dropped everything. He hugged me. Then, he reached into his wallet and pulled out a photo of my parents and me. The photo was dated 1975. As I stared into the picture, I reflected and calculated that I now was the same age as my father was then.

While there, I also called Alberto and Olga Maugh. This Chinese family were our neighbors when we lived there from 1971 – 1973. Olga told me all about their family. She had a son who now worked for NASA, near my parents home in the Houston area. She told me that Alberto was now 80! He couldn’t be, could he? I mean, I used to play with his children. How sobering!

Life is brief. It passes quickly. Have you prepared to meet your God? The Bible says, “For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little while, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4:14). The Psalmist wrote, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). The New Testament instructs that we are to be “redeeming the time.” (Colossians 4:5). That is, we are to regard time as something precious, every moment. We should make the most of each day (Matthew 6:34). We should not squander precious time. Time should be appreciated and used for all it is worth. Each day we should begin by declaring in our minds, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).

Life is so brief. Before you know it, your kids and grandkids will be grown. You’ll be old, then life will be over. Appreciate every moment of every day. Ask yourself if you are spending your time on what really matters.

Posted in stewardship, Time | Tagged stewardship, time | Leave a comment

Bryan Hodge

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How Are We Tempted? (Part 1)

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Voting

Most of My Heroes Are Gone! (Does Anyone Want to do Right Anymore?)

Was Jesus Really Raised?

The Passing of Time

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