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| Odie Walker September 24, 2007-November 16, 2017
Odie, daughter of Black Ace and Angel Creepers.
How do we honor such a special gift from God? You brought so much joy to our family and now you are gone, too suddenly, too soon. All of us feel the gapping hole at the loss of you.
It's hard to do each day the same, you were part of every moment. We find ourselves going to do something for you only to remember you aren't here anymore.
Oh, how you wrapped yourself around our hearts. It all started the moment you came home. We tried to be good dog owners, showing you who was master, but you knew all along you owned us from the start. Nathan couldn't resist your cries at night and brought you to our bed, where you slept every night without fail ever since. Alex couldn't stop petting your silky coat. The way you rested your muzzle on our lap and looked at us with those milky brown eyes in order to get our attention. Your sweet antics for begging steak off our plates with a sweet little nudge of the paw on our elbow. We always thought it funny how scared you acted before your walks, it was a leash thing, but once you were out the door, you walked us!
We still laugh at your pact with the backyard squirrels. We know you patrolled the fence line everyday as your duty to keep the critters away but knew you wouldn't really hurt them as you chased them out of the yard. It was almost as if you told them, "Hey this is the game, I bark and chase after you, the humans are looking but when they are gone, you can plant a few of those nuts in the pots, just make me look good on the job."
When you got sick the first time, oh how we fought and cheered you as you kicked the most nasty of diseases. We felt blessed to have made it through the hurdle and have you around. When you got sick this time, I could see in your eyes you were trying, it was just too much to bare. We had to let you go, the pain and suffering was not worthy of you. You deserved so much better than what we could give you at the end. Life can be cruel, but you never were. Every time Nathan came home from work you were waiting at the window for him and would howl in delight. Every time we had to leave you for a trip, you'd be mad but forgive us and love on us as if we were the center of the world. You played with us, were our little nurse when we were sick and knew when we were sad and would stay by our side until you made us feel better.
I will always remember the Christmas when I opened my gift from Nathan. It was a grey, electric blanket; you went nuts and thought it was yours. You never got excited before about gifts. I shared that blanket with you and loved our snuggle sessions and how you hugged in tight and close. We will always laugh at how you would kick us in the back to get more room in the bed, just like a kid.
I always loved your gentle nudge of the the hand when you wanted us to pet your head. How you would use your eyes to talk, so we knew what you needed and wanted.
I will always remember you laying on your back and paws bent in relaxation ready for a belly rub. Oh the sounds of pleasure you would make when we rubbed your belly. You made the cutest noises when you slept, sometimes you'd snore and have the craziest dreams.
I tried Odie, I really did... I prayed for you to get better and did my best to give you the care you deserved in the end. I know you know that we loved you. Even when I felt like I was betraying you by signing the papers to end your life I did it so you wouldn't feel the pain anymore. You are relieved from your duties my dear friend. I will never forget you!
Our Nicknames for Odie
Clicky Toes
Boo-ba-dee
Minty Cheese
Silky Pony Puppy
The Black Bullet
Potato
Otis
Odal
Sitz n' Fritz
Wiggle Butt
Butt legs (splooter)
The Queen Nurse |
Saturday, November 18, 2017
Odie Walker ABC
Saturday, November 11, 2017
A is For Apostasy
I have to clear the air. I have rejected the opportunity to involve myself in christian book study and for good reason. The christian books out there in the mainstream reading genre are downright heretical. One book that was offered to me a while back I actually threw in the trash, it wasn't worth returning as it was so full of error I would have felt guilty giving it back or sending to the bookstore for another sucker to purchase and waste their time on.
The older I get, the more I do not want to fight the error, I just want to learn the truth and revel in it, therefore, I just want to study the word of God. I do have a few books on my list to buy written by a christian man I do want to read but I have been vetting his ministry for the past 6 months and can now say he's proved he truly is biblically based and worth purchasing.
I have come to view christian books, to be clear, mainly modern ones, and their study as a trap or a distraction to spiritual growth. (This is my opinion, as some folks I love and know have read some of these books and felt they helped them, I do not want to step on your toes and I know you can take my opinions, so hugs to you!) I believe the only true spiritual growth comes from God's Word (Hebrews 4:11-13) and submitting fully to it.
Our flesh is easily gratified when it comes to error in christian book studies. Some of the books we read just give us that tingly feeling, or entertains us, or fulfills selfish impulses. My question for christian book study is what is your motive for reading the book? If you find error in it what do you do next? (Hebrews 3:13).
I have strongly been led to study only God's word for my spiritual health and growth, especially in this last year. This is how my study usually goes; prayer to God to help me understand his Word, read a passage, sometimes I am convicted, other times I am encouraged. I look up words within the passage that are underlined (Hebrew/Greek Study Bible) for a deeper meaning. Look up cross references for support and fuller understanding. Pray and then think about the meaning throughout the day or talk about the passage with my daughter or anyone who would listen to me (most of the time she is the only one who would listen to me-God bless her heart!). It is an all day event. (Somedays I am not as focused and other days I can't get over a passage because the understanding of it was made more clear. Now that is JOY in studying with the Holy Spirit as your teacher. There are times the scripture throws light onto a circumstance as I am experiencing it and I am strengthened. (2 Timothy 3:16).
In modern Christian book study I see a tainting, a counterfeit take precedence to spending time with our Lord. A slant towards feelings, emotions and world philosophies creep in and in my opinion take the place of the work of the Holy Spirit. How easy it is to be caught up in a book thinking we can supplement the Word of God. No human author can do what God can do for a soul. (Please do not get me wrong, there are times I have read an excerpt or book from GK Chesterton, Oswald Chambers, C.S. Lewis, and have been inspired or thankful for their nuggets of wisdom. God can use people's lives and writing to help a believer in their understanding or encouragement. I am cautious though to not give them too much authority, they are fallible; the Word, which God wrote, is not, it is the only reliable source and can be fully trusted with your life direction. )
Our God is a jealous God and anything that takes the worship, adoration and praise from Him is idolatry and sin. Humans (including myself) so easily go looking for answers outside the source in front of our noses through our fellow peers. He planned and wrote the Word as the ultimate act of love. His willingness to communicate to us in the way in which he accomplished this task is beautiful. We should treasure His Word above all else.
I am not saying never to read another book written by a person or even study a book written by another person. What I am saying is vet the author to make sure his/her topic is biblically based and honors God in a worthy manner. Look out for self help, psychology minded, less-than gospel oriented material. Does the author understand the entire scope history, prophecy, of the Bible or do they take scripture out of context to make their points valid? Does the author placate to cultural, societal status quo and mix the world's philosophies in with the Bible?
There are times a History book, or outside academic sources can help us understand the Bible better. Just be careful that your filter is indeed the Holy Spirit as you learn from these sources. Revisionism, half truths, inaccuracy abound in many textbooks. Always make God's word the final word when it comes to studying in this category.
Book Reviews
Some of the following books I have read in the past or have seen the mainstream christian community flock to in current time. I'll let you know all these books contain heretical teaching or egregious error, some are more subtle in their problems than others. I urge you to do a deep dive into these authors and their ministries before you submit your thinking and spiritual walk to them. I have taken the time to compile a few resources in this area. Again, never take my word for it. Study for yourself and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you in all truth. (John 16:13).
I read The Purpose Driven Life when it first rolled off the print press. I was inspired. I coupled that book with the study of Seven Habits of Highly Effectual People by Stephen Covey and was ready to take on the world. (Oh, the naivety of youth!) God had different plans and those 2 books were thwarted by what God truly wanted me to do. It involved giving up my wants and desires, taking up my cross and following Him. Imagine that!
I read the Shack when it rolled off the press and immediately knew there were serious issues but chalked it up to fiction and entertainment. I knew the error but do the lost or those baby christians who are learning to know what to look for? Oh how convicting, the thought your writing can lead people astray, the influence you can have on a community as an author in a particular genre does have consequences. (I even look at my blog in this manner. I know visitors read and I'm sure there are things in it that may be wrong... OUCH! May the Lord show me my error and I will correct!)
What I'm trying to clarify is this, God does not harm or damage our spiritual walk. He sent His son to remedy this problem. Ephesians 2:1-10. Man can have detrimental, damaging effects, get in the way, slow the progress down or downright de-rail it.
The Watchout List (Oh this List can grow but these are the ones I spent time vetting) I Timothy 4:1.
An Article about understanding error and where you and I might be in that category. Pragmatism in this arena is also error. Error should be met head on with a target to root it out entirely.
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
The error just grows and grows... His mentor Peter Drucker a business management guru who influences church growth was not a Christian and the folks Warren surrounds himself with are not Christians. Mehmet Oz, Dr. Amen to list a few. A little leaven leavens the whole bunch. (Galations 5:9). Ecumenism, Universalism..etc.
Rick Warren in His own Words by Brannon Howse (I feel someone is trying to do this with my family.. if I find out it is true I hope you repent of the harm you brought to us.) Minute 51...No group consensus for me... I'll hold on to my biblical values...)
Desiring God - John Piper (video)
Heresy: Original Sin, Christian Hedonism, Replacement Theology, Liberal Philosophies
The Shack by William Young
Heresy: Trinity, False gospel
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young
Heresy: New Age method's, doctrine of demons
Beth Moore
Heresy: Ecumenicism, Psychology minded gospel doctrine of demons
My Prayer:
May the Lord keep me/us from falsehood. I repent of my sin in following humans instead of the God of the Bible. To repent means to turn. I reject the false, do an about face and turn towards the true (JESUS- John 14:6). May the Lord keep me in His ways, AMEN! PSALM 86:11...
EXCELLENT VIDEO!!! So convicting! Everything the Lord has been reminding me of in my latest posts.
Another excellent video - APOSTASY in the Church
Discerning the True from the False VIDEO
The Late J Vernon McGee... VIDEO
The Mixing continues... Article
Jacob Prasch NAILS IT!!!
This video describes a good meter to apply to your church...
Seeker Sensitive and the 3 main models and why they are false
Pop Psychology in the Church
False Doctrine
The older I get, the more I do not want to fight the error, I just want to learn the truth and revel in it, therefore, I just want to study the word of God. I do have a few books on my list to buy written by a christian man I do want to read but I have been vetting his ministry for the past 6 months and can now say he's proved he truly is biblically based and worth purchasing.
I have come to view christian books, to be clear, mainly modern ones, and their study as a trap or a distraction to spiritual growth. (This is my opinion, as some folks I love and know have read some of these books and felt they helped them, I do not want to step on your toes and I know you can take my opinions, so hugs to you!) I believe the only true spiritual growth comes from God's Word (Hebrews 4:11-13) and submitting fully to it.
Our flesh is easily gratified when it comes to error in christian book studies. Some of the books we read just give us that tingly feeling, or entertains us, or fulfills selfish impulses. My question for christian book study is what is your motive for reading the book? If you find error in it what do you do next? (Hebrews 3:13).
I have strongly been led to study only God's word for my spiritual health and growth, especially in this last year. This is how my study usually goes; prayer to God to help me understand his Word, read a passage, sometimes I am convicted, other times I am encouraged. I look up words within the passage that are underlined (Hebrew/Greek Study Bible) for a deeper meaning. Look up cross references for support and fuller understanding. Pray and then think about the meaning throughout the day or talk about the passage with my daughter or anyone who would listen to me (most of the time she is the only one who would listen to me-God bless her heart!). It is an all day event. (Somedays I am not as focused and other days I can't get over a passage because the understanding of it was made more clear. Now that is JOY in studying with the Holy Spirit as your teacher. There are times the scripture throws light onto a circumstance as I am experiencing it and I am strengthened. (2 Timothy 3:16).
In modern Christian book study I see a tainting, a counterfeit take precedence to spending time with our Lord. A slant towards feelings, emotions and world philosophies creep in and in my opinion take the place of the work of the Holy Spirit. How easy it is to be caught up in a book thinking we can supplement the Word of God. No human author can do what God can do for a soul. (Please do not get me wrong, there are times I have read an excerpt or book from GK Chesterton, Oswald Chambers, C.S. Lewis, and have been inspired or thankful for their nuggets of wisdom. God can use people's lives and writing to help a believer in their understanding or encouragement. I am cautious though to not give them too much authority, they are fallible; the Word, which God wrote, is not, it is the only reliable source and can be fully trusted with your life direction. )
Our God is a jealous God and anything that takes the worship, adoration and praise from Him is idolatry and sin. Humans (including myself) so easily go looking for answers outside the source in front of our noses through our fellow peers. He planned and wrote the Word as the ultimate act of love. His willingness to communicate to us in the way in which he accomplished this task is beautiful. We should treasure His Word above all else.
I am not saying never to read another book written by a person or even study a book written by another person. What I am saying is vet the author to make sure his/her topic is biblically based and honors God in a worthy manner. Look out for self help, psychology minded, less-than gospel oriented material. Does the author understand the entire scope history, prophecy, of the Bible or do they take scripture out of context to make their points valid? Does the author placate to cultural, societal status quo and mix the world's philosophies in with the Bible?
There are times a History book, or outside academic sources can help us understand the Bible better. Just be careful that your filter is indeed the Holy Spirit as you learn from these sources. Revisionism, half truths, inaccuracy abound in many textbooks. Always make God's word the final word when it comes to studying in this category.
Book Reviews
Some of the following books I have read in the past or have seen the mainstream christian community flock to in current time. I'll let you know all these books contain heretical teaching or egregious error, some are more subtle in their problems than others. I urge you to do a deep dive into these authors and their ministries before you submit your thinking and spiritual walk to them. I have taken the time to compile a few resources in this area. Again, never take my word for it. Study for yourself and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you in all truth. (John 16:13).
I read The Purpose Driven Life when it first rolled off the print press. I was inspired. I coupled that book with the study of Seven Habits of Highly Effectual People by Stephen Covey and was ready to take on the world. (Oh, the naivety of youth!) God had different plans and those 2 books were thwarted by what God truly wanted me to do. It involved giving up my wants and desires, taking up my cross and following Him. Imagine that!
I read the Shack when it rolled off the press and immediately knew there were serious issues but chalked it up to fiction and entertainment. I knew the error but do the lost or those baby christians who are learning to know what to look for? Oh how convicting, the thought your writing can lead people astray, the influence you can have on a community as an author in a particular genre does have consequences. (I even look at my blog in this manner. I know visitors read and I'm sure there are things in it that may be wrong... OUCH! May the Lord show me my error and I will correct!)
What I'm trying to clarify is this, God does not harm or damage our spiritual walk. He sent His son to remedy this problem. Ephesians 2:1-10. Man can have detrimental, damaging effects, get in the way, slow the progress down or downright de-rail it.
The Watchout List (Oh this List can grow but these are the ones I spent time vetting) I Timothy 4:1.
An Article about understanding error and where you and I might be in that category. Pragmatism in this arena is also error. Error should be met head on with a target to root it out entirely.
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
The error just grows and grows... His mentor Peter Drucker a business management guru who influences church growth was not a Christian and the folks Warren surrounds himself with are not Christians. Mehmet Oz, Dr. Amen to list a few. A little leaven leavens the whole bunch. (Galations 5:9). Ecumenism, Universalism..etc.
Rick Warren in His own Words by Brannon Howse (I feel someone is trying to do this with my family.. if I find out it is true I hope you repent of the harm you brought to us.) Minute 51...No group consensus for me... I'll hold on to my biblical values...)
Desiring God - John Piper (video)
Heresy: Original Sin, Christian Hedonism, Replacement Theology, Liberal Philosophies
The Shack by William Young
Heresy: Trinity, False gospel
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young
Heresy: New Age method's, doctrine of demons
Beth Moore
Heresy: Ecumenicism, Psychology minded gospel doctrine of demons
My Prayer:
May the Lord keep me/us from falsehood. I repent of my sin in following humans instead of the God of the Bible. To repent means to turn. I reject the false, do an about face and turn towards the true (JESUS- John 14:6). May the Lord keep me in His ways, AMEN! PSALM 86:11...
EXCELLENT VIDEO!!! So convicting! Everything the Lord has been reminding me of in my latest posts.
Another excellent video - APOSTASY in the Church
Discerning the True from the False VIDEO
The Late J Vernon McGee... VIDEO
The Mixing continues... Article
Jacob Prasch NAILS IT!!!
This video describes a good meter to apply to your church...
Seeker Sensitive and the 3 main models and why they are false
Pop Psychology in the Church
False Doctrine
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Please Order My Steps
I have had a very interesting field exercise with the Lord this past year as I have been in the mainstream church environment. I have been accused of being like Eve and believing a deception as I took those steps into the local church. I have been accused of deceiving my family and warned of the way of the Nicolaitans as I re-entered the local church. I have been accused of rejecting truth and on a path to shipwrecking my faith. I can honestly say, I went in those doors with eyes wide open. I understand the teaching of deception and what to look for as I have studied the word my entire life but with more emphasis on apostasy in the past 20 years. I went there as an obedient act of God, as my family was being attacked spiritually and I had no one to stand by me (Eccl. 4:9-12, Hebrews 10:25). Sometimes in war, God sends you to places temporarily for your protection, even places that may have deception and other battles to fight (Matthew 12:3-4, I Samuel 21:4- has some bearing to that statement) I think of Samuel serving in the temple under Eli and his sons who were scoundrels. Samuel kept his integrity and heart after God- I Samuel 2:12- (I am not implying the people at this church are scoundrels, I am stating that 'apostasy' in some form was in God's Temple even in the OT and that didn't stop Samuel a young man from following God while under Eli's poor instruction at times and his son's awful mistreatment of their positions). I went in those doors with my battle gear beat to a pulp and exhausted. (Ephesians 6:10-18). Either I am relying on God or man... I believe I choose God!
I admit, I can be deceived, I have been before and God brought me out of it. Yes, I can still fall into deception, I am human, frail and the heart is desperately wicked. I am writing this post to state, those above accusations just aren't true in this particular event in my life. When there is a desperate situation, desperate measures are called for and obedience to God requires swift action. I obeyed God even under the intense pressure of accusations from partial knowledge of my circumstances. (Acts 5:29, Proverbs 29:25). God has kept me close (Psalms 91:4), and kept my family from being snared (Proverbs 3:26).
I have been grateful for the results of my obedience but as I spend my time in a 'refugee camp' of sorts I see problematic issues. God, what should I do, are you going to move me to another camp or call me back out to the battlefield? The struggle I am under is tough especially with the deep wound that won't seem to heal properly. I trust you explicitly, my commander in Chief, I just don't trust others anymore.
I know a sheep alone is easy pickings for the devil, they become sickly and can't even defend themselves. Relationship with Jesus and fellowship is key to protection in this wide world of fiery darts being hurled at the flock, but what about those wolves in sheep clothing within the flock, or the ignorant sheep that hurt other sheep or the deceived that think they hold fast but are in deed in error? Jesus, You are the Good Shepard. Help me to rely solely on You for healing and health within your church. It is my prayer that I do not be a sheep that hurts others too. It is hard in the apostate time to find those on the narrow path who love each other deeply and seek truth that causes conviction that leads to full submission to you. I yearn for that reality to become real.
I am steadfast in the promise you gave me at my bedside BEFORE all this happened. Genesis 50:20... May it be so, I know it will be so.
Love,
Your obedient servant!
Psalms 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord!
Psalm 91:2
Psalm 25:20
*Psalm 27:5
Psalm 31:20
Psalm 32:7
Psalm 71:3
Proverbs 14:26
2 Timothy 4:16-18
At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom.To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen!
Mom and Dad, you have been there for me in prayer and in wise counsel... THANK YOU! So wish you weren't 1000 miles away!
P.S.
I like using 'Art' in my posts but only because it looks nice. I am educating myself about the seeker sensitive movement and boy, I can see why someone would read my blog and think the pictures I use fall into the 'error' mysticism category. I just like art, I don't worship icons or take any spiritual meaning in art. I just LIKE it and that is all.
I admit, I can be deceived, I have been before and God brought me out of it. Yes, I can still fall into deception, I am human, frail and the heart is desperately wicked. I am writing this post to state, those above accusations just aren't true in this particular event in my life. When there is a desperate situation, desperate measures are called for and obedience to God requires swift action. I obeyed God even under the intense pressure of accusations from partial knowledge of my circumstances. (Acts 5:29, Proverbs 29:25). God has kept me close (Psalms 91:4), and kept my family from being snared (Proverbs 3:26).
I have been grateful for the results of my obedience but as I spend my time in a 'refugee camp' of sorts I see problematic issues. God, what should I do, are you going to move me to another camp or call me back out to the battlefield? The struggle I am under is tough especially with the deep wound that won't seem to heal properly. I trust you explicitly, my commander in Chief, I just don't trust others anymore.
 |
| Waiting For the Word |
I am steadfast in the promise you gave me at my bedside BEFORE all this happened. Genesis 50:20... May it be so, I know it will be so.
Love,
Your obedient servant!
Psalms 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord!
Psalm 91:2
Psalm 25:20
*Psalm 27:5
Psalm 31:20
Psalm 32:7
Psalm 71:3
Proverbs 14:26
2 Timothy 4:16-18
At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom.To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen!
Mom and Dad, you have been there for me in prayer and in wise counsel... THANK YOU! So wish you weren't 1000 miles away!
P.S.
I like using 'Art' in my posts but only because it looks nice. I am educating myself about the seeker sensitive movement and boy, I can see why someone would read my blog and think the pictures I use fall into the 'error' mysticism category. I just like art, I don't worship icons or take any spiritual meaning in art. I just LIKE it and that is all.
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Cultural Christianity and the Social Gospel
Cultural Christianity.... STOP THERE! Those two words coupled together should make a true believer question those catchwords.
Cultural: Relating to the ideas, customs and social behaviors of a society.
Christianity: Worldview based on the teachings of Jesus.
On their own, these words are just fine. When they are brought together, they sound good too, just like a catch phrase does, but what I want to hone in on is the deeper meaning surrounding the definitions.
The definition is in need of balance, especially where the church is concerned. This term is great under the biblical precepts and ways of God (Psalms 139:3). God calls us out of the world's system (1 Peter 2:9) and He teaches and directs a believer in His way (Isaiah 55:8). The old becomes new (2 Corinthians 5:17). This dynamic encompasses true cultural Christianity.
The term is tainted when a christian thinks we can influence the world's culture by allowing tolerance instead of truth in love and acceptance without repentance. Western civilization certainly shows this through communitarian mentality, 'why can't we all just get along, in the name of peace.' I'm not talking about sports team rivalry or inconsequential preferences of diverse folks. I'm talking about how easily we take two opposing thought systems and merge them to create a new system so all parties are happy. This is dangerous ground spiritually. The, 'I'm OK, your OK, we are all under grace, so we are all covered,' mentality is a pitfall in the American church. It leaves room for doctrinal error, which leads to watered down teaching of the word (2 Timothy 2:15) and is couched in the ideas of modern cultural Christianity. The social gospel is the extreme outcome of this error and is a false gospel.
Read Luke 12:49-51 before reading any further. This truth has been lost in many churches today. Jesus is discussing the fact that He was going to suffer pain and death and because of His willingness to follow God's plan which encompassed a zealous revealing of truth, would cause upset within house holds, with a final end which leads to God's glory. He states a common cultural fact when he says we are hypocrites when we predict the weather but can not even understand the times we live in. People will be looking towards fallible ways and miss the truth right before their noses. The culture was the same in Jesus' time as it is today.
Biblical View of Culture
God calls his people OUT of their culture. He doesn't necessarily change the culture, he changes the man. A redeemed man will have encounters within his culture and there may be times a culture is changed but there is a catch. The only time you see a culture change is because repentance was involved.
Our modern idea of loving people to change a culture misses the mark in that to truly love means to speak truth.
Our only 'job' within our culture is to live rightly (I Peter 3: 8-12) and preach the good news (Mark 16:15-16) with obedience to the will of God (2 Thessalonians 2; 14-15, 3:6, 2 Peter 3:9). The last 8 words of Mark 16 verse 16 state an obvious fact cultural and social gospel Christianity tend to ignore, "but whoever does not believe will be condemned." This fact usually causes tension because if you preach the full measure of the good news you have to talk about the law (commandments) and sin. The only way a culturally deprived people can see the truth is know their true condition, which should lead them to the full understanding of the work of Jesus and why they need Him.
Yes, Jesus did come for the sick, it is the spiritually dead (sinner) who need a doctor (Mark 2:17). The doctor must diagnose the problem first in order for revival to take place. When we rely on methods of tolerance and acceptance without repentance and bypass the talk of sin, you've just consulted a charlatan. A sick person can not understand the bounty of grace without first knowing their grave condition without it.
The more typical outcome of speaking truth into a culture causes tension, hatred and spurning from a rebellious heart. This doesn't mean we shouldn't do it anyway. (Matthew 10:13-14) The travels of the Apostle Paul in Acts certainly showcases his demise within the Jewish and Gentile culture. He was reviled and hated the majority of the time but also had those converts that were called out and following the Lord.
The New Testament is a record of what being called out means. Paul is constantly correcting and admonishing the called out ones (church) to remember the old way are gone, put on the new man and keep the false gospel out. (Ephesians 2: 3, 12 - Colossians 1:21. Galatians 1. )
In a nutshell, ( I know I say that a lot), We are to be called out of the culture we came from and be an example, not try to change it through politics or our own works, both of which do not espouse what the gospel is.
Old Testament Examples
When I was studying my Bible a few question came to mind. Did Lot change Sodom and Gomorrah? Did God give Jericho the chance to change their culture before being destroyed? What about Ninevah?
The common string between Sodom and Gomorrah, Jericho and Ninevah is they were all pagan cultures. They defied God, were idolatrous and wicked. Lot was considered righteous and distressed over the 'culture' he lived in. He wasn't able to change them, nor was God willing to bear with their lawlessness any longer. (2 Peter 2:7, Genesis 13:13)
Abram dealt strictly with the King of Sodom after saving Lot's family in Genesis 14 (22-24). He also prayed for the wicked city asking God for mercy if there were righteous living there. (Genesis 18). We all know the rest of the story, God's justice was meted out. (Genesis 19). I don't think Lot or Abraham worried about cultural change.
Jericho was a walled city full of Canaanites who were obviously not righteous folk. The Lord told Joshua the land belonged to the Israelites and to drive the squatters out. Jericho was a formidable city and God brought the walls down through a supernatural act. The only one saved was Rahab, who repented and turned from her ways. (Rahab is in the family line of Jesus- Matthew 1:5). The Israelites definitely were not thinking about changing that culture. In fact, some of the Canaanite captives taken into Israeli camps caused contention later on in history. The Israelites allowed Canaanite citadels to remain and the disobedience to God's original command (to drive them out of the land) caused them to experience detrimental consequences in their culture. Bad apple ruins the bunch! (Judges 1: 27-34).
Ninevah may be the only evil culture that was changed by a righteous man speaking a message directed by God. Jonah was reluctant to speak the message of REPENTANCE to the city of Ninevah, with a human understanding, I can see why, they brutalized their enemies and Israel was on that list. God showed his Mercy to Ninevah, they listened and repented. (Jonah 3:6) Remember, repentance is on an individual heart basis, many individuals repenting can cause cultural change. (Although they did experience destruction through conquering later on in their history.) Ninevah is modern day Assyria and there is still a Christian community there. (Matthew 12:4).
The Way
The more I put the term 'cultural christianity' and especially the 'social gospel' against biblical accounts, the more I think that term strays from what is the true basis for any changes or influence within a society. That basis is falling on your knees before a Holy, Just God and repenting of anything that does not meet His requirements within individual hearts. This lifestyle is a separateness within the bounds of society. We are in the world, but not of the world. John 17:16,17). May we work out our sanctification with honor, beauty and gratefulness before our friends, families and neighbors and at every opportunity, preach the good news in full measure, being examples in word and deed for the Glory of God.
Remember the term Christian was first used as a derogatory term. It came with an air of disgust and pity, 'Those people who follow Christ, how pathetic!' This was how we were seen culturally, a reviled people. Just as Jesus was (I Peter 2:23).
I can think of many areas of society a true follower of the way is reviled. What do you see?
I think deeply on Psalms 1 in context to this subject!
Please let me know your thoughts on this subject. These are mine and may need refining or maybe there are other examples I'm not seeing and I would love to discuss.
Excellent video...
Cultural: Relating to the ideas, customs and social behaviors of a society.
Christianity: Worldview based on the teachings of Jesus.
On their own, these words are just fine. When they are brought together, they sound good too, just like a catch phrase does, but what I want to hone in on is the deeper meaning surrounding the definitions.
The definition is in need of balance, especially where the church is concerned. This term is great under the biblical precepts and ways of God (Psalms 139:3). God calls us out of the world's system (1 Peter 2:9) and He teaches and directs a believer in His way (Isaiah 55:8). The old becomes new (2 Corinthians 5:17). This dynamic encompasses true cultural Christianity.
The term is tainted when a christian thinks we can influence the world's culture by allowing tolerance instead of truth in love and acceptance without repentance. Western civilization certainly shows this through communitarian mentality, 'why can't we all just get along, in the name of peace.' I'm not talking about sports team rivalry or inconsequential preferences of diverse folks. I'm talking about how easily we take two opposing thought systems and merge them to create a new system so all parties are happy. This is dangerous ground spiritually. The, 'I'm OK, your OK, we are all under grace, so we are all covered,' mentality is a pitfall in the American church. It leaves room for doctrinal error, which leads to watered down teaching of the word (2 Timothy 2:15) and is couched in the ideas of modern cultural Christianity. The social gospel is the extreme outcome of this error and is a false gospel.
Read Luke 12:49-51 before reading any further. This truth has been lost in many churches today. Jesus is discussing the fact that He was going to suffer pain and death and because of His willingness to follow God's plan which encompassed a zealous revealing of truth, would cause upset within house holds, with a final end which leads to God's glory. He states a common cultural fact when he says we are hypocrites when we predict the weather but can not even understand the times we live in. People will be looking towards fallible ways and miss the truth right before their noses. The culture was the same in Jesus' time as it is today.
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Biblical View of Culture
God calls his people OUT of their culture. He doesn't necessarily change the culture, he changes the man. A redeemed man will have encounters within his culture and there may be times a culture is changed but there is a catch. The only time you see a culture change is because repentance was involved.
Our modern idea of loving people to change a culture misses the mark in that to truly love means to speak truth.
Our only 'job' within our culture is to live rightly (I Peter 3: 8-12) and preach the good news (Mark 16:15-16) with obedience to the will of God (2 Thessalonians 2; 14-15, 3:6, 2 Peter 3:9). The last 8 words of Mark 16 verse 16 state an obvious fact cultural and social gospel Christianity tend to ignore, "but whoever does not believe will be condemned." This fact usually causes tension because if you preach the full measure of the good news you have to talk about the law (commandments) and sin. The only way a culturally deprived people can see the truth is know their true condition, which should lead them to the full understanding of the work of Jesus and why they need Him.
Yes, Jesus did come for the sick, it is the spiritually dead (sinner) who need a doctor (Mark 2:17). The doctor must diagnose the problem first in order for revival to take place. When we rely on methods of tolerance and acceptance without repentance and bypass the talk of sin, you've just consulted a charlatan. A sick person can not understand the bounty of grace without first knowing their grave condition without it.
The more typical outcome of speaking truth into a culture causes tension, hatred and spurning from a rebellious heart. This doesn't mean we shouldn't do it anyway. (Matthew 10:13-14) The travels of the Apostle Paul in Acts certainly showcases his demise within the Jewish and Gentile culture. He was reviled and hated the majority of the time but also had those converts that were called out and following the Lord.
The New Testament is a record of what being called out means. Paul is constantly correcting and admonishing the called out ones (church) to remember the old way are gone, put on the new man and keep the false gospel out. (Ephesians 2: 3, 12 - Colossians 1:21. Galatians 1. )
In a nutshell, ( I know I say that a lot), We are to be called out of the culture we came from and be an example, not try to change it through politics or our own works, both of which do not espouse what the gospel is.
Old Testament Examples
When I was studying my Bible a few question came to mind. Did Lot change Sodom and Gomorrah? Did God give Jericho the chance to change their culture before being destroyed? What about Ninevah?
The common string between Sodom and Gomorrah, Jericho and Ninevah is they were all pagan cultures. They defied God, were idolatrous and wicked. Lot was considered righteous and distressed over the 'culture' he lived in. He wasn't able to change them, nor was God willing to bear with their lawlessness any longer. (2 Peter 2:7, Genesis 13:13)
Abram dealt strictly with the King of Sodom after saving Lot's family in Genesis 14 (22-24). He also prayed for the wicked city asking God for mercy if there were righteous living there. (Genesis 18). We all know the rest of the story, God's justice was meted out. (Genesis 19). I don't think Lot or Abraham worried about cultural change.
Jericho was a walled city full of Canaanites who were obviously not righteous folk. The Lord told Joshua the land belonged to the Israelites and to drive the squatters out. Jericho was a formidable city and God brought the walls down through a supernatural act. The only one saved was Rahab, who repented and turned from her ways. (Rahab is in the family line of Jesus- Matthew 1:5). The Israelites definitely were not thinking about changing that culture. In fact, some of the Canaanite captives taken into Israeli camps caused contention later on in history. The Israelites allowed Canaanite citadels to remain and the disobedience to God's original command (to drive them out of the land) caused them to experience detrimental consequences in their culture. Bad apple ruins the bunch! (Judges 1: 27-34).
Ninevah may be the only evil culture that was changed by a righteous man speaking a message directed by God. Jonah was reluctant to speak the message of REPENTANCE to the city of Ninevah, with a human understanding, I can see why, they brutalized their enemies and Israel was on that list. God showed his Mercy to Ninevah, they listened and repented. (Jonah 3:6) Remember, repentance is on an individual heart basis, many individuals repenting can cause cultural change. (Although they did experience destruction through conquering later on in their history.) Ninevah is modern day Assyria and there is still a Christian community there. (Matthew 12:4).
The Way
The more I put the term 'cultural christianity' and especially the 'social gospel' against biblical accounts, the more I think that term strays from what is the true basis for any changes or influence within a society. That basis is falling on your knees before a Holy, Just God and repenting of anything that does not meet His requirements within individual hearts. This lifestyle is a separateness within the bounds of society. We are in the world, but not of the world. John 17:16,17). May we work out our sanctification with honor, beauty and gratefulness before our friends, families and neighbors and at every opportunity, preach the good news in full measure, being examples in word and deed for the Glory of God.
Remember the term Christian was first used as a derogatory term. It came with an air of disgust and pity, 'Those people who follow Christ, how pathetic!' This was how we were seen culturally, a reviled people. Just as Jesus was (I Peter 2:23).
I can think of many areas of society a true follower of the way is reviled. What do you see?
I think deeply on Psalms 1 in context to this subject!
Please let me know your thoughts on this subject. These are mine and may need refining or maybe there are other examples I'm not seeing and I would love to discuss.
Excellent video...
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