Salvation

The Sons of Disobedience

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

“For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them.” Ephesians 5:5-7 (NKJV)

In his epistles, the Apostle Paul thrice uses the figurative phrase “sons of disobedience.” He does so not to define people of biological descent, but to characterize those in rebellion against God – lives marked by defiance, unbelief and resistance to God’s will.

The sons of disobedience persist in sin without repentance. In the verses above, Paul is specific that such sin includes sexual immorality, covetousness and idolatry; that is, a life conforming to worldly desires. He further asserts that such a life is influenced by spiritual forces opposed to God in which one walks “according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience…” (Ephesians 2:2)

Notably, the apostle declares that we were once all among the sons of disobedience, having been born into a fallen state as the descendants of Adam. Ephesians 2:3 continues:

“…among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.”

The good news, however, comes in verses 4-5:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)…”

By God’s loving grace, through faith which manifests in repentance and obedience, we are no longer sons of disobedience but become the adopted sons of the everlasting God.

In Romans 8:13-14, Paul contrasts the sons of disobedience with the sons of God:

“For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.”

That is, those who yield to the Holy Spirit rather than be led by the worldly desires of the flesh are the sons of God.

Such a distinction is particularly relevant in today’s volatile and divisive political climate. Many are quick to characterize those who do not share their world views as ill-informed or, worse, evil.

For example, does Donald Trump fit the biblical description of the sons of disobedience? How about those who empower, endorse and encourage him?

Such questions are actually relevant because of those seven words comprising Ephesians 5:7:

“Therefore do not be partakers with them.”

Whether or not Trump fits the description of a son of disobedience as described by Paul requires nothing more than objective observation. He is an adulterer. He covets power, money and exaltation – and he lies, sues and slanders in pursuit of them. He genuinely hates those who stand in opposition to him. Most grievously, he is unrepentant in all of it. These are indisputable, observable behaviors.

But because “sons of disobedience” describes a spiritual condition known only to God, I am incapable of making such a judgment. Christians are called to evaluate actions and fruit – not to declare knowledge of one’s spiritual identity.

Instead, I will simply defer to Paul’s warning not to be partners in their sin. I appeal to those who endorse behavior that is in direct conflict with God’s commands for repentance, forgiveness and love to consider whose sons they want to be. For they, too, will stand in judgment before the bema seat of the Lord.

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil.” Isaiah 5:20

The Obedience of Faith

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

“1Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, 2which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh 4and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, 5through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, 6including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ” Romans 1:1-6 (ESV)

In his transcendent letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul bookends the epistle in 1:5 and 16:26 with a short phrase, but one that carries profound implications for the faithful in Christ. In both his greeting and his doxology, Paul underscores “the obedience of faith” – the context of which is similar in both instances.

“25Now to Him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith — 27to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.” Romans 16:25-27

As he teaches throughout his letters, Paul does not mean that salvation is earned by obeying rules. Rather, he describes obedience that flows from a genuine faith in the Lord.

Faith comes first. Paul is unambiguous that believers find grace by trusting God – not by works of the law.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

Authentic faith manifests in obedience to God’s word. The gift of such faith begets a changed life – one in which we respond to the Lord with trust, hope and submission – aligning that life with God’s will.

Paul is making the point that faith is not simply an intellectual acknowledgement of the gospel. True faith leads to a transformed life.

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2

I confess to having been “conformed to this world.” I confess to a “faith” that, prior to becoming a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), was not authentic but corrupt. I confess to professing my Christianity verbally, failing to acknowledge that such profession came from my mouth, not my heart. I confess that I was a “Christian” when it was convenient to be one, but would rationalize my disobedience when it was not.

It is only by the grace of God that I am saved. I do not deserve such grace; none of us do. But God sent His only begotten Son to us so that His grace, His mercy, His love – is available to all who believe.

I believe. I now seek to do the will of God – that which “is good and acceptable and perfect.” This is the manifestation of authentic faith. Of course, I fail…repeatedly. But rather than rationalize my sin, I confess it and repent of it. The Lord knows that I – like both of you reading this post – am flawed. But the obedience of faith does not imply that we will be perfect. However, obedience does include repentance:

“Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent.” Acts 17:30

In summary, “the obedience of faith” means a trusting response to the gospel that results in a life of obedience – obedience not to earn salvation, but obedience that naturally flows from genuine faith. Paul’s instruction calls for a faith-response that changes how we live in Christ.

“Put Away the Evil Person”

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“But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person. For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” 1 Corinthians 5:11-13

In the first of his two canonical letters to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul addresses how Christians should relate to those inside the church who persist in serious, unrepentant sin. In these verses, three critical questions are answered:

  • To whom is Paul alluding?
  • What defines an evil person?
  • How are believers to respond?

To these, I add a fourth:

How are Christians to reconcile the professed faith of Donald Trump with his persistent, unrepentant sin within the context of Paul’s missive?

It is the inability to credibly reconcile these facts – and the hypocrisy that stems from it – that, I believe, present the greatest peril to the growth of the Christian church in America today.

“Anyone Named a Brother”

Paul’s instruction to the Corinthian church is to disassociate from those who claim to be believers but continue in blatant, ongoing sin. He is clear that his directive does not apply to non-Christians. While the church is obliged to judge those within, it is only God that will judge those outside.

Let us consider the faith of POTUS. Is he a Christian or does he profess his faith only to manipulate the devotion of his apologists? While I believe all evidence points towards the latter, I cannot know his heart. Thus, for the purposes of this assessment, let’s take him at his word and consider him a brother in Christ.

Paul exhorts those in the church not to keep company with sinful brethren – to “put away from yourselves the evil person.” He offers a brief but poignant description of how those evil persons behave.

“The Evil Person”

Paul leaves little room for interpretation. He is unequivocal in his portrait of the evil person and the specific behaviors that make him so – behaviors that not only warrant, but demand, disassociation from the church. Sexual immorality. Covetousness. Idolatry. Hate. Fraud.

I do not judge Donald Trump’s heart. I do, however, judge his behavior. Sexual immorality? Check. Covetousness? Check. Idolatry? Hate? Fraud? Check, check, check. Those behaviors – for which he insists he is unrepentant – are indisputable, even to the most ardent of his sycophants.

To be sure, Christians should acknowledge the sin nature intrinsic to man since his creation. We know believers will struggle. Jesus went to the cross specifically for that reason.

I humbly confess to each and every one of these sins…and more. But Christ’s relentless, incalculable love finally found its way to my diseased heart. Of course, I am only human and I still sin – hopefully with less intention and gravity – but my trust in God allows me to both confess it and repent of it.

Confession and repentance are demonstrative of – and essential to – a genuine faith. POTUS proudly and emphatically concedes neither.

“Put Away from Yourselves the Evil Person”

Paul’s command reflects his concern for the spiritual health and integrity of the church. Quite simply, Christians are not to tolerate persistent, unrepentant evil in the community from those who profess their faith. Such profession is disingenuous and hypocritical.

Again, the apostle’s instruction does not apply to non-believers. His message is clear that while the church is responsible for judging the brethren, God alone judges those outside of it. Paul’s concern is the hypocrisy evident in the refusal to repent while claiming Christian identity – and the damage overt hypocrisy does to the church.

I believe such hypocrisy extends to those who empower, endorse and encourage “the evil person.” This, of course, includes the abundance of Trump apologists, false preachers, self-serving politicians and others who profess Christ but enable his evil behavior – particularly those who fail to offer correction.

It is important to note that Paul’s instruction to remove the evil person from church fellowship is mandated not only to stem the damage of hypocrisy, but to provoke healing in the sinner. Judgment inside the church is about the body’s credibility and the restoration of the sinner. It is not about punishment. Instead, separation is intended to make clear that the behavior is incompatible with obedience to the Lord.

Trump’s sinful actions are indisputably incompatible with Christian morality – as is his stubborn unwillingness to repent of them. But those in the church who fail to hold him accountable for those evil behaviors are far from faultless. They are not only complicit in Trump’s evil behavior but put their own standing in the church at risk. For as Paul warns in verse 33:

“Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.’” 1 Corinthians 15:33

Final Words

Today, 1 Corinthians 5:11–13 is usually applied through the practice of loving church accountability, not social shunning or moral policing of society. Much to the dismay of Christian Nationalists, Paul’s words do not call upon the church to enforce Christian morality on the wider culture. Believers are to engage the world outside the church with humility and love, not condemnation. “Those who are outside [the church] God judges.”

Nor are those inside the church who sin, confess, repent and seek change the target of Paul’s admonition. He is unambiguous in calling for the church to disassociate from those asserting belief but are persistently vile and remorseless. Because Donald Trump unabashedly professes his faith, I believe Paul is commanding the church to hold him accountable, offer correction and, hopefully, initiate discipline that is restorative. Those in the church who fail to do so put their credibility and integrity in jeopardy – as well as that of the church.

“Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.” Romans 1:32

Related: TRUMP

Endurance & Perseverance: Running the Race for Eternity

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

“…one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:13-14 (NKJV)

The upward call of God in Christ Jesus. The resurrection. The prize of eternity with the Lord.

It is the only prize that matters. As with any prize, there is a path to victory. To Christians, that path is sometimes referred to as The Way…as in:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

John 14:6

And while The Way has 66 books of the Bible devoted to its amplification, an exceedingly abridged account of the path incorporates:

  1. Acknowledgement of our sin: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23)
  2. Recognition that we deserve death: “For the wages of sin is death.” (Romans 6:23)
  3. The understanding that Jesus died as a propitiation for our sins and was resurrected: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
  4. Faith: “For by grace you have been saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not a result of works, that no one should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
  5. Living our faith by being obedient to His word: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22)

How to Run

The Bible makes several analogies of our journey in The Way as a race. The Apostle Paul instructs us as to how this race is to be run:

“…I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.”

Philippians 3:12b

In other words, we run by “pressing on.” We do not relent. We do not lose focus. We run with perseverance.

As the author of Hebrews exhorts us:

“…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,”

Hebrews 12:1

Although we may be mature in our beliefs, we must recognize that Satan is ever-present. He is always seeking to make the race more difficult by throwing up obstacles – those things we see as temptations or distractions. It is why we must run with endurance and perseverance – and be confident that as we tire or become confused, the Holy Spirit will give us a course-correction.

Preparing to Run

Competition and fitness were central features of the Roman and Greek cultures in which Paul was immersed during his four missionary journeys. Athletic success required preparation. Training and diet were fundamental elements of that preparation.

Perhaps this is what Paul had in mind when he wrote in chapter 4 of his first letter to Timothy that good ministry requires that one be “nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine” while exhorting him to “exercise yourself toward godliness.”

Despite the fact that Paul knew Jesus better than anyone else, he continued to hunger for ever-greater, ever-deeper knowledge of Christ. Nourishment in God’s word strengthens the relationship one has with Him. A greater knowledge of God leads to a greater love of Him.

Of course, most of us know of someone with a shallow or insincere love of Christ. Most likely, that reveals a shallow knowledge of Him. Running the race with endurance and perseverance requires that we nourish ourselves properly with “words of faith and good doctrine.”

It also necessitates “exercise towards godliness.” Becoming increasingly godly is foundational to the race itself. We do so by consuming a steady diet of God’s word and exercising love and discipline in our obedience to it. Preparation becomes part of the race itself.

Winning

“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”

I Corinthians 9:24-27

In the athletic competitions of ancient Greece, there was but one winner. Thankfully, that is not the case in this race. Jesus died on the cross so that each and every one of us can win our race. We are not racing against others – but we are racing against the world.

A key component of our individual race is the exhortation of our brethren to train with us, and run with endurance and perseverance. For as Jesus said to His disciples just prior to ascension,

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.”

Matthew 28:19-20

And we are to run, as instructed by Paul in I Corinthians 9, with the certainty of victory. We are to exercise discipline to run through our inadequacies. And we are to be obedient to the rules of the race.

The Finish Line

While sitting in a Roman jail – knowing that his execution was but days away – Paul wrote to Timothy:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7

Death on earth is indeed the end of the race. But for those that have run with endurance and perseverance, and finish with faith and obedience, it is the beginning of a resurrected eternity with the Lord. It is the prize for which we press on, the reward for finishing well.

Paul knew the resurrection to be fact – he was, after all, face to face with Jesus on the Damascus Road. He knew that Jesus had defeated death. That gave Paul his ultimate goal – and his reason to press on.

Perhaps we have not been face-to-face with Christ in the same way. But Christians have felt the presence and the direction of the Holy Spirit in our lives – giving us the same confidence Paul had. Confidence in Christ. Confidence in the resurrection. And with confidence comes hope. With confidence comes joy. With confidence comes peace.

In fact, Paul’s confidence was such that he could see death as gain:

“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Philippians 1:21

How about each of us? Do we fear death – or do we see death as necessary to win the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus?

If we have run the race the right way, death is not to be feared; rather it is to be viewed as gain. For as C.S. Lewis so wisely wrote:

“Nothing that has not died will be resurrected.”

Hypocrisy as an Impediment to Evangelism

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , 2 Comments

The resurrected Jesus Christ’s Great Commission to His followers as expressed in Matthew 28:16-20 is to spread the gospel to all nations.

Evangelism is not easy for most of us. Sharing the gospel in a meaningful and compelling manner necessitates that we have considerable familiarity with God’s word. Some feel that they may not be sufficiently well-spoken to articulate His word in an impactful manner. But perhaps the greater challenge is that rarely are we gifted an audience that is enthusiastic about hearing the Lord’s plan for our salvation.

The challenge of a receptive audience is one often made more severe by a perceived hypocrisy on the part of some Christian evangelists – a perception that diminishes the credibility of the evangelist and the audience’s willingness to lend an ear.

When questioned by a scribe as to which is the first commandment of all, Jesus responded:

“The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31

That these passages encompass the Lord’s response to a single question confirms that the love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated. In fact, love of God is manifested in the love of our neighbor. Loving others is how we love God. Matthew 25:40 implies precisely this when Jesus says to His sheep:

“…inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.”

The importance of loving our neighbor is intensified when viewed through the lens of the Lord’s instruction in Matthew 5:44 to:

“…love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

This is the heart of a Christian. Although we often fail, God, in His abundant mercy and grace, forgives us. But reckless disregard and contempt for God’s word has no place in that heart. Instead, we are to have godly remorse of our disobedience, repent of it, and endeavor to sin no more (see 2 Cor 7:10).

At the National Prayer Breakfast on February 6, 2020, Harvard professor Arthur Brooks echoed the Lord’s command to love your enemies. President Donald Trump responded to Brooks’ exhortation by saying, “I don’t know if I agree with you.”

As the president’s disagreement was not with Mr. Brooks but with God, it was an appropriate opportunity for his Christian advisors to deliver suitable correction.

Instead, when asked about POTUS’ comments, one such advisor who pastors a Dallas megachurch replied, “I think the president was completely right in what he said.” This comes from a man who is purportedly guiding his flock to eternal life through obedience to Christ. He should also be intimately familiar with Psalm 12:8:

“The wicked prowl on every side,
When vileness is exalted among the sons of men.”

Exalting vileness is precisely what this Texas pastor has done. Would not direct contradiction of God’s word comprise “vileness?”

His is not alone. While many would characterize Mr. Trump’s often hateful behavior toward others as a vile transgression of God’s greatest commandment, he remains virtually uncensored by much of the evangelical community.

It is not my intent to debate the heart of Donald Trump. I would rather pray for a repentant heart that will lead to his salvation. However, it is imperative to point out the hypocrisy on the part of those who should know better. Their failure to censor, to correct and to disavow is at the root of that hypocrisy. Romans 16:17-18 is absolutely clear:

“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.”

Certainly, there are many teachers within the church that note God’s boundless grace and use ungodly behavior as a teaching opportunity. They lovingly reprimand the abuser and encourage repentance.

That, however, was not the case for this Dallas pastor. Nor is it so for more than a few in the evangelical community. Instead, by turning a blind eye to unrepentant disobedience of God’s word, they empower, endorse and encourage such disobedience. In other words, they exalt it. To nonbelievers, this represents a noxious hypocrisy on the part of those who would teach them God’s word. How then, can the unenlightened be receptive to hearing the gospel if the credibility of the messenger is so compromised?

Finally…

Hypocrisy is an accusation sometimes levied at the Christian Church. Such disparagement can often be attributed to a lack of understanding or context – and is simply the persecution of His disciples foreshadowed by Jesus in the gospels.

Frequently, however, such criticism is credible based on persistent behavior – or the implied endorsement thereof – that clearly runs contrary to well-known Christian principles.

Such endorsements by significant segments of the Christian community – particularly evangelical celebrity leadership – foment the claims of hypocrisy by non-Christians. They are not wrong.

Scripture commands us to share the Gospel, to testify of the Lord, and to bring as many to Him as we are able. To do so, we must be living testimonies to the word of God. We must be women and men of humility and integrity. Above all, we must demonstrate – in word and deed – what it means to love your neighbor as yourself. Only then can we have the ear of non-Christians and the credibility to articulate a persuasive case for Jesus.

The Antichrist? Maybe not, but POTUS is pedal-to-the-metal on the road to Armageddon

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Two years ago, I authored a post originally titled “Avenues to Armageddon.” A slightly edited version was reposted a year later as “Armageddon: Humanity’s Fragile Existence and Faith in the Last Days.”

I noted in that post that the Doomsday Clock was, at that time, sitting at a mere 90 seconds before midnight. It has subsequently moved a tick closer.

My intent was to bring awareness that the last days may indeed be upon us – yet those of us in Christ can take comfort in the knowledge that we have salvation in Him. Scripture is clear that such days, if not already here, are forthcoming.

I also speculated on the potential origins of the global apocalypse that would precipitate Armageddon. Among them:

  • Nuclear annihilation;
  • Cataclysmic climate change rendering our planet uninhabitable;
  • A global pestilence;
  • A technology meltdown or incursion rendering defense, financial, governmental and other systems inoperable leading to universal chaos;
  • A technology takeover of global systems driven by irresponsible management of artificial intelligence enterprises;

Let’s consider each of these, briefly examining the policies and actions of the Trump administration that make each scenario more probable.

Nuclear Proliferation: The Trump administration has pulled out of or scaled back involvement in several multilateral treaties or agreements critics considered essential to help restrain or provide transparency in nuclear arms. This includes the 2019 withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) allowing both the U.S. and Russia more freedom in the deployment of intermediate‑range missiles increasing tensions in Europe and Asia – and the 2018 withdrawal from the JCPOA (better known as the Iran Nuclear Deal) prompting Iran to step back from compliance and step up nuclear efforts. Trump’s rhetoric has also increased tensions based on his stated belief that the U.S. must “greatly strengthen and expand its nuclear capability.”

Cataclysmic Climate Change: The administration has rolled back several regulations related to emissions and pollution including The Clean Power Plan, vehicle efficiency and emission standards, and protocols limiting methane leaks from oil and gas infrastructure – all of which led to a dramatic increase in greenhouse gases. Executive Order 14162 formally withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord while the administration also pulled back from funding and commitments related to international climate cooperation. Moreover, fossil fuel development is being fast-tracked while clean energy initiatives are being blocked. Perhaps most dangerously, Trump seeks to repeal the government’s endangerment finding that carbon dioxide emissions harm public health. Should that occur, the EPA could no longer regulate auto or power plant emissions.

Pestilence: Several Trump actions have increased global vulnerability to future pandemics and undermined preparedness. Withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization in 2020 has weakened the potential for global coordination during a public health crisis while sowing international distrust of this country as a partner in global health. The NSC’s Pandemic Office – tasked with pandemic preparedness and response – was dismantled by Trump in 2018. Trump’s appointment of Robert Kennedy, Jr. to the post of Health & Human Services Secretary has fomented vaccine apprehension, cast unwarranted skepticism on medical science, completely upended such agencies as the FDA and CDC, and eroded public trust. His “big, beautiful bill” has dramatically damaged the U.S. health system by reducing access to vulnerable populations, increasing costs for insured and undermining the financial viability of healthcare providers – further crippling this nation’s pandemic response.

Technology Melt-Down Resulting in Global Chaos: I don’t know that I can pin this one on POTUS, but there is clearly a scenario in which the technological systems we rely on are compromised. With seemingly every global actor seeking to infiltrate the computer systems of its enemies – and often its allies – there is interminable vulnerability to universal chaos. There is one system, in particular, that fits within the apocalyptic prophecies of many Christians – the global financial system. Specifically, some see Revelation 13 as intimating a one-world government and single world currency as precursors to the apocalypse. Logically this currency would be digital, making Trump’s recent 180-degree flip on cryptocurrencies thought-provoking. His pre-2021 criticism contrasts with his 2024 acceptance of crypto donations, pro-crypto rhetoric and, significantly, the Trump family’s aggressive participation in crypto projects that have produced personal gains estimated to be $500 million to $2 billion. Interestingly, his rhetoric towards Canada, Greenland and other sovereign nations may hint at aspirations to lead a one-world government.

Irresponsible Management of Artificial Intelligence Enterprises: Hollywood has essentially prophesied of the threat posed by AI for more than 40 years. Way back in 1983, the movie WarGames dramatized the potential peril associated with AI and military computer systems. A year later, Terminator projected similar warnings that AI, given unwarranted autonomy and control – particularly in military scenarios – can act against humanity. The Trump administration remains unmoved by such prognostications. Instead, POTUS has revoked the Biden-era Executive Order (14110) that required safety tests, comprehensive reporting on high-risk AI systems and ensured transparency in AI development. One of Trump’s first EO’s upon returning to office was 14179, shifting focus from risk mitigation to the promotion of unencumbered AI development for commercial and military purposes.

Trump has often intimated that he believes he is fulfilling a divine role or mission, particularly when it aligns with political goals or audience expectations. Perhaps he genuinely believes he is doing “God’s work” in a spiritual sense. I am of the belief, however, that such rhetoric is more likely a strategic narrative to con and connect with religious supporters.

I actually do believe he is doing God’s work, albeit unwittingly. Throughout scripture, God uses people of questionable character to accomplish His will.

No, I do not believe it is God’s will to promote hate, bigotry, the pursuit of money and power, the further subjugation of the poor, and the destruction of His creation. Rather, I believe God is using Donald Trump to show beyond all doubt that the last days are upon us.

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Indeed, this seems not only an apt description of the human race in these last days, but of the man who today is ostensibly the leader of the free world.

To be clear, that is my assessment of his behavior – not his heart. I cannot and will not judge his heart – only the conduct that stems from it. I pray each day that he will open that heart to God and, like King Manasseh of Judah, seek repentance and enjoy the Lord’s divine mercy in his own last days.

Related: The Deception of Trump-Love

Walking in The Way: A Journey of Faith and Righteousness

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“They shall be My people, and I will be their God; then I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them and their children after them.” (Jeremiah 32:38-39, NKJV)

Scripture affirms that there is but “one way” to salvation.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)

Jesus is our path to God, our means to salvation and our example of how we should live. He is The Way.

The Way is an affirmation of faith and submission to God’s will.

Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the Lord!
Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart! (Psalm 119:1-2)

The Apostle Paul perceives The Way as a journey that must be pursued with perseverance and endurance. Of course, every journey has a destination. In Philippians 3:14, Paul characterizes the destination as “the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

The resurrection. Eternal life with Christ Jesus. This is the journey’s end.

Throughout the New Testament – particularly the Book of Acts – “The Way” is used as a description of the early Christian movement, such as in Acts 9:2:

“…so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.”

Thus, The Way can essentially reference (1) the early Christian faith, (2) Jesus Himself as the path to salvation and eternal life, or (3) the moral or spiritual journey taught and inspired by Christ. However, as evidenced in the first psalm of the Psalter, there is a right Way and a wrong way:

For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the ungodly shall perish. (1:6)

For some who have not been immersed in Old Testament scripture, The Way is sometimes assumed to be a phenomenon introduced subsequent to Jesus’ incarnation and earthly ministry. Such a focus on Jesus in the NT can often obscure His presence – and that of The Way – in the OT, particularly in the books of Isaiah and the Psalms.

In Psalm 15, for instance, King David poses a question for which he subsequently imparts his God-inspired reply – a question that Paul undoubtedly appreciated:

1Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle?
Who may dwell in Your holy hill?

That is, who may stand before God? Who will receive “the upward call of God in Christ Jesus?”

2He who walks uprightly,
And works righteousness,
And speaks the truth in his heart;
3He who does not backbite with his tongue,
Nor does evil to his neighbor,
Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend;
4In whose eyes a vile person is despised,
But he honors those who fear the Lord;
He who swears to his own hurt and does not change;
5He who does not put out his money at usury,
Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things shall never be moved.

The psalm describes those “of The Way.” The Way is paved by integrity, honesty, goodness and compassion. Our relationships are not slanderous, evil or scarred by disloyalty; rather they are defined by generosity, unity, sacrifice and prayer. We hate what God hates and love what He loves. Our heart is aligned with His.

Jesus is The Way. Without His sacrifice on the cross, The Way has no destination. Without His teaching and His example, the path to righteousness remains hidden.

It is hidden no longer. Love your neighbor – even your enemy. Forgive all so that you may also be forgiven. Live humbly and sacrificially. Serve others. Follow Him. Share the gospel.

Do you follow the one way? Perhaps you have devised your own way. Given the temptations, the divisions and the vanity of this world, it might seem normal that we each validate our own truth and forge a path that is aligned with it.

For instance, perhaps your version of the truth implies that heaven is waiting for those who are “good” people. Maybe you have made idols of fame, wealth or other men. This is not The Way.

To follow “The Way” is to walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:6)—not just to believe in Him, but to pattern your entire life in emulation of Him.

When to Disobey: Biblical Insights on Authority

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“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:1-2 NIV)

In his letter to Christians in Rome, the Apostle Paul advocates for submission to government authorities, arguing that they are God’s servants to maintain order and justice.

Similarly, the Apostle Peter instructs the faithful to submit to rulers, thereby silencing critics and honoring God.

“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.” (1 Peter 2:13-15)

As we see, the Bible addresses obedience to government authorities in several key passages, emphasizing a general principle of respect and submission to those in power, while also recognizing God’s ultimate authority. However…

How are we to respond in situations where those in positions of authority mandate or coerce behavior that is contrary to God’s word? This is a crucial question in light of the current administration’s assault on the poor, the sick and the sojourner – an assault that is clearly at odds with the Lord’s commands for love, charity, hospitality, patience and grace.

Blessedly, God definitively affirms that His authority – as revealed in scripture – is supreme. That is, when human authority conflicts with His word, civil disobedience is not only merited, but mandated.

“We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29)

These words, delivered by Peter in response to the high priest’s command to remain silent regarding culpability in the death of Jesus, clearly establish that obedience to God takes precedence when authorities contradict His word.

Such obedience was demonstrated by Daniel who continued to pray to God despite a royal ban (Daniel 6) – and by his friends Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego who refused King Nebuchadnezzar’s edict that his image was to be worshipped (Daniel 3). In both cases, they respectfully disobeyed unjust laws and accepted the consequences, putting their trust in God.

Christians are called upon to obey just laws that align with biblical commands to respect civil authorities. But when legislative mandates directly contradict God’s commands, Christians are not only permitted but obligated to respectfully disobey.

We must respond to governmental directives that promote injustice, violate human rights, subjugate the disenfranchised and demand behavior that contradicts God’s law. Christians are called on to advocate for the oppressed and to oppose corruption and injustice, especially in the face of the political status quo. This is not partisanship; this is a commitment to truth, to mercy, to righteousness, to love, and to God.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:8-9)

As Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20, as Christians “our citizenship is in heaven.” We must view all earthly powers through that lens. Loyalty to a nation or political party must never override our loyalty to Christ and His commands.

Scripture teaches us that judgment is coming for those that choose to reject the Lord’s commands for compassion and love. I believe punishment will be rendered not only to those who legislate the oppression of the vulnerable, but also those who enable, empower and encourage disobedience through their advocacy.

Woe to those who make unjust laws,
to those who issue oppressive decrees,
to deprive the poor of their rights
and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people. (Isaiah 10:1-2a)

In conclusion, those who would resist injustice and pursue righteousness must do so with humility…and in prayer. We must advocate for change with respect and love, even while strongly opposing unjust laws. Engagement should be marked by grace, not hatred, slander or division. This is what God demands of us. Our posture matters.

For the Lord is our judge,
the Lord is our lawgiver,
the Lord is our king;
it is he who will save us. (Isaiah 33:22)

Isaiah 5:13: A Call to Know God

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Two-and-a-half years ago, I authored a post discussing The Imperative to Know God. The message was a simple one: Spiritual ignorance makes one ripe for worldly pursuits and the poor decisions that follow.

We were made by God to know God. He desires that we grow in our knowledge of Him and His purpose for us. In so doing, we not only nurture our love for Him but we come to know the peace and the joy that such knowledge begets.

This post recently came to mind as I was reading through the book of Isaiah, specifically verse 5:13:

“Therefore my people go into exile for lack of knowledge;
their honored men go hungry,
and their multitude is parched with thirst.”

This verse is a vital component of the larger prophetic message of Isaiah 5 in which the prophet delivers God’s judgment against Israel’s southern kingdom, Judah. It conveys a strong warning regarding the consequences of spiritual and moral failure.

Such failure is a consequence of intellectual and spiritual ignorance. As noted in my earlier post, I have been there. This ignorance made me incapable of understanding God’s will for me, His love of me, and the consequences of my disobedience.

Those consequences stem from God’s judgment. As Isaiah makes clear in 5:13, divine judgment is forthcoming for all of us. Judah’s disobedience would precipitate exile and deprivation – a deprivation that is symbolic of both physical need and spiritual emptiness.

Disobedience to God stems from illiteracy of His word and His will. As documented in the Bible’s Old Testament, Judah rejected His wisdom and truth. It abandoned God’s ways and was subjected to His judgment of exile to Babylon, just as the Lord had cautioned through His prophets.

I offer my thoughts below on two critical questions:

  1. What is the application of Isaiah 5:13 today?
  2. How do we cultivate our knowledge of God?

Regarding the first, this verse is a wake-up call to the importance of seeking and valuing God’s truth. It further warns about the consequences of moral and spiritual apathy, especially among leaders of men. Perhaps most importantly, it is an encouragement to cultivate a deep, living relationship with God, not simply a cursory acknowledgement of His existence.

So, how do we make that happen?

A pastor friend of mine wisely advised that one cannot have a relationship with God without an understanding of scripture. This does not simply mean memorizing key Bible verses or studying the big stories that many of us were exposed to in Sunday school. It means comprehending the Bible’s overall narrative, seeing that it is not a tethering of unrelated anecdotes but a single, awesome and loving rendering of God’s “creation-to-salvation” plan for the restoration of man.

Certainly, this undertaking may, at times, seem overwhelming – particularly in the midst of Leviticus. But the rewards of perseverance are considerable (more below).

Two suggestions: first, set aside time each day for worship, prayer and Bible study – ideally upon waking. Second, get help and/or inspiration. Two of my favorite sources for doing so are The Bible Project (the animated overviews of each chapter are very enlightening} and The Bible Recap offering a daily summation and interpretation of each day’s reading. Links to these and selected resources are available HERE.

The benefits to knowing God are profound. I made reference earlier to the peace and joy that such knowledge engenders. In a previous post, I argued that the Bible validates God’s existence. I believe that a diligent, thoughtful study of scripture could lead to no other conclusion. And as God has Himself reminded us through His prophet Isaiah, knowledge and obedience to His will prepares each of us for the divine judgment we will inevitably face.

Manifesting Faith Part II: The Righteous vs. The Wicked

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“A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” (Matthew 7:18-20)

In my most recent post (The Manifestation of Faith), I spoke to how those who come to faith in Christ Jesus become more like Him – more loving, more merciful, more humble and more obedient. We also become repentant of our sin.

As God, Jesus had no need for repentance. It was and is, however, foundational to His message:

“…but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3)

There is, of course, the flip-side of the coin – the unrepentant. Psalm 36 teaches of those who have given themselves over to sin:

1There is no fear of God before his eyes.
2For he flatters himself in his own eyes,
When he finds out his iniquity and when he hates.
3The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit;
He has ceased to be wise and to do good.
4He devises wickedness on his bed;
He sets himself in a way that is not good;
He does not abhor evil. (Psalm 36:1-4)

In fact, the Psalms offer an appropriate framework for drawing distinctions between the righteous and the wicked. In the Psalms, the “wicked” are broadly defined as those who are ungodly, rebellious, and characterized by evil actions and attitudes. They reject God’s authority, prioritize their own desires, and pursue self-interest at the expense of others.  They are contrasted with the “righteous,” who are those faithful to God and live according to His principles.

My very favorite psalm – Psalm 1 – exemplifies this contrast, juxtaposing the blessed (righteous)  and the wicked. The former delights in God’s law and is fruitful in doing so; the other circumvents God’s word and associates with those who mock God:

1Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
2But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
3He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.
4The ungodly are not so,
But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.
5Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,
Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
6For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the ungodly shall perish. (Psalm 1)

A deeper dive into the contrast between those whose faith manifests in righteousness and those who neither believe or trust in God’s goodness, provision and justice, uncovers some distinctive attributes. Specifically, the “wicked” as characterized in the Psalms:

  • Demonstrate a profound self-centeredness and lack of humility, prioritizing their own ambitions rather than those of our Lord God.
  • Actively engage in acts of violence, oppression and deception against others.
  • Make the accumulation of wealth, possessions and accolades their idols rather than the pursuit of God’s will.
  • Remain rebellious and disobedient towards God, actively opposing His word and unwilling to either acknowledge or submit to His authority.
  • Refuse to acknowledge their misconduct, remaining unrepentant of their sinful behavior.

The “righteous,” of course, are not without sin. But they strive, unsuccessfully at times, to live by the will of God – to be led by the Holy Spirit. They seek not to profit at the expense of others, but to find fulfillment in His word and obedience to it. And they wait patiently for the Lord to fulfill His promised return.

In closing, we must nonetheless remain vigilant in our faith while remaining patient for:

The wicked prowl on every side,
When vileness is exalted among the sons of men. (Psalm 12:8)

Clearly, the world exalts vileness. We are witness to it every moment of every day – in our politics, our communities, our economies – even in our churches. Everywhere.

In His time, God will put down the wicked and lift up the faithful. Psalm 50 gives warning to those who exalt evil – and offers hope to the faithful.

16But to the wicked God says:
“What right have you to declare My statutes,
Or take My covenant in your mouth,
17Seeing you hate instruction
And cast My words behind you?
18When you saw a thief, you consented with him,
And have been a partaker with adulterers.
19You give your mouth to evil,
And your tongue frames deceit.
20You sit and speak against your brother;
You slander your own mother’s son.
21These things you have done, and I kept silent;
You thought that I was altogether like you;
But I will rebuke you,
And set them in order before your eyes.
22“Now consider this, you who forget God,
Lest I tear you in pieces,
And there be none to deliver:
23Whoever offers praise glorifies Me;
And to him who orders his conduct aright
I will show the salvation of God.” (Psalm 50:16-23)

The Manifestation of Faith

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I started this post with the intent of addressing the what, why and how of eternal life with the Lord. But as I began to put context to this idea, I quickly realized that I was adding unneeded complexity to a simple truth. The what and why are obvious…and the how is actually quite uncomplicated.

There is but one how to eternity: faith in the Triune God.

“Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

In his epistle to the Romans, the Apostle Paul confirms this truth:

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” (8:1)

No condemnation. No death. Faith alone.

The concept of “faith” may be obscure to many. Even as defined by the writer of Hebrews in verse 11:1, the meaning can seem vague:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Faith is trust in God’s word. Faith is certainty of His existence and His promises – despite the fact that we cannot perceive them with our physical senses. It is spiritual certitude grounded not in tangible evidence, but in our trust of God’s character.

This certainty – this faith – triggers a transformation of our very being. What are the manifestations of that transformation in our time on this earth?

Love. Repentance. Mercy. Humility. Obedience.

Our faith is an open invitation to the Holy Spirit to enter our hearts and lead us in fulfilling the words of the prophet Micah:

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.” (6:8)

I pray that this faith is YOUR faith. If so, you are blessed. But the Lord’s blessings are waiting for those who have yet to find it. He has made Himself known through creation, through scripture, and through the person of Jesus Christ. I pray that you will seek Him.

“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Jeremiah 29:13

When Loyalty is NOT a Virtue

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My bible study currently has me in the book of Ruth. In scripture, Ruth stands a pillar of loyalty – a woman whose profound faithfulness and selfless love is rewarded by God’s blessings of family and prominence in the lineage of King David and, thus, Christ Jesus.

The Bible emphasizes the merits of loyalty in marriage, family and friendship. Most importantly, scripture accentuates the importance of loyalty to God.

To characterize loyalty as a virtue would thus seem to be a no-brainer.

I would argue, however, true virtue manifests not in loyalty itself but in that to which one chooses to be loyal. Certainly, loyalty can be a virtue reflecting trust, commitment and a sense of responsibility – one which inspires support and sacrifice.

Conversely, loyalty can be corrosive – particularly if it manifests in allegiance to something or someone that is immoral, corrupt, abusive and/or vindictive.

There is no person alive more demanding of loyalty among his acolytes than Donald Trump. This demand, of course, is for personal loyalty to him – not to the country to which his political minions have pledged allegiance. POTUS revels in the litmus tests he accords his followers, such as their championing of the false, stolen election narrative.

The Ironies of the Ultimatum

Such demands are perfectly reflective of his narcissism, his insecurity, and his blatant self-centeredness. Needless to say, there are several fascinating ironies here.

For example, in making personal loyalty rather than competence the determinant in building his administration (see Hegseth, Gabbard, Kennedy, etc.), Trump not only weakens the country but demands disloyalty to the Constitution. His insistence that VP Mike Pence invalidate the 2020 election is but one of innumerable episodes in which Trump has demanded his truth supersede that of our nation’s laws.

Chillingly, his frequent and self-validating falsehoods demonstrate disloyalty to God. For while the rectitude of loyalty may be situational, the Lord does not compromise on truth.

Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord,
But those who deal truthfully are His delight.

Proverbs 12:22, NKJV

Ironically, loyalty is not a quality Trump is capable of reciprocating. Pence was loyal to the point of humiliation. In return for his nearly four years of groveling, POTUS offered tacit approval of a mob’s intention to “hang Mike Pence.” Needless to say, Trump’s infidelities reveal his inability to maintain loyalty within his marriage.

The Great Danger

The examples of Trump’s abuse of his office to exact retribution upon those who fail to bend the knee are profuse. Beyond Pence. Beyond Comey. Beyond Kelly, Barr, Mattis, Vindman and more. In virtually each instance, it involves Donald Trump putting himself above the people and the Constitution of the United States to satisfy his fragile ego.

This, ultimately, is the greatest danger of his presidency. A man whose ego is so brittle – one which can only be satisfied by bullying the rest of humanity into submission – should not oversee this country’s nuclear arsenal. Nor its global leadership. This is what his followers fail to comprehend.

A Final Irony

Trump, in his narcissism, believes that the declarations of loyalty by the GOP’s congressional lemmings are genuine. My guess is that such declarations are, by and large, insincere – that their true allegiance is not to POTUS but to their own relevance and power. These legislators were first-hand witnesses to the persecution of true patriots like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger – who remained loyal not to a man, not to their careers, but to their oath to uphold the Constitution.

Actually, most were far more than indifferent witnesses – they were the persecutors themselves – condemning those with the integrity to speak truth to power – in order to gain favor with the man who could smile on their political fortunes.

Perhaps we can conclude that loyalty is a conditional virtue – one that only becomes virtuous when it is grounded in wisdom, fairness and ethical purpose. These all seem to be absent in the demands of Trump and the posturing of his followers.

A Test of Faith

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In a post shared in May of 2023 (Navigating the Deception of Trump-Love: Insights on God’s Sovereignty and the Works of Darkness), I argued that Donald Trump’s ascension was the work of God – that Trump’s immorality and narcissism were so blatantly obvious and patently evil that only God could blind so many to these truths.

As one who believes in the inerrancy and infallibility of scripture, I view Romans 13:1 as confirmation:

“…there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”

Left unanswered in that prior post is the question of why? – why would He who knows all and sees all elevate this man to the highest office in the land?

I had no answer in May 2023 and chose not to speculate on God’s reasoning. Instead, I acknowledged that His ways are higher than my ways, and that I am to trust in God.

I continue to trust in His purposes. But that trust no longer precludes me from speculating as to what those purposes might be.

Scripture leads me to believe that the Lord God will test His creation. Such stalwarts of faith as Abraham, Moses, Job, Peter and Paul were often put to the test to build character and deepen their dependence on God. They passed far more often than they failed. But, as descendants of Adam – the first to fail his test – each bungled God’s trials at times. Thankfully, we have a merciful, loving God. Our failures – of which there are many – are forgiven through repentance, faith and the Lord’s work on the cross.

So, does God test us? Of course, He does. God tells us as much in scripture:

I, the Lord, search the heart,
I test the mind,
Even to give every man according to his ways,
According to the fruit of his doings. (Jeremiah 17:10)

Thus, my answer to the “why” question is this: God has elevated Donald Trump in order to validate and deepen our faith.

I suspect that my take on this subject will raise the ire of the MAGA acolytes who believe POTUS to be a demigod put on earth to single-handedly bully a misguided world into obedience with their righteous morality. I am of the belief, however, that God’s intentions are somewhat more obscure. I look to the Bible – specifically, Deuteronomy 13 for clues as to what those intentions might be.

Verses 13:1-4 are as follows (NIV):

“1If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder spoken of takes place, 2and the prophet says, “Let us follow other gods” (gods you have not known) “and let us worship them,” 3you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. 4It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him.”

Let’s see if we can put some modern-day context to these verses.

Deuteronomy 13 is a warning against false prophets and those who would lead others into idol worship. Let’s be clear…Donald Trump considers himself a prophet, essentially proclaiming himself God’s hand to fulfill a higher purpose. This alone, however, does not make him a “false” prophet. Nor does Trump’s promise of a return to power – even when “the sign or wonder spoken of takes place.”

Rather, Trump identifies himself as a false prophet by exhorting his acolytes, “Let us follow other gods and let us worship them.”

What are those objects of Trump’s idol worship? They are visible for all the world to see: Wealth. Power. Deceit. Lust. Gluttony. Envy. Retribution. It is his unrestrained and unrepentant pursuit of these that make him false – and condemns those that encourage, enable and follow in his idol worship.

How do these harmonize with such core Christian values as love, truth, forgiveness, humility, fidelity, hospitality and righteousness? Please ask yourself this question…because God is asking it of you. Again…

“The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. 4It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him.”

There are consequences to disobedience – and the failure to remain steadfast in the face of enticement to idolatry. As a reminder, Jeremiah 17:10 tells us that the Lord God searches the heart and tests the mind “to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.”

Do not exalt those who would lead you to worship false idols. Do not be led by those who repudiate the Lord’s commands for love, humility, truth and justice. In doing so you not only encourage but enable hate, deceit, retribution and greed.

Related: Evangelicals & Trump: Mutual Abuse of Biblical Proportions

Is Being “Born Again” a Thing?

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Nicodemus was perplexed. When the pharisee was informed by Jesus that one must be “born again” to see the kingdom of God, Nicodemus asked incredulously:

“How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” (John 3:4)

His confusion was hardly placated by the Lord’s response:

“Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”

I can appreciate why Nicodemus was befuddled. I first read these words – at least with enthusiasm – some 15 years ago. Unlike the pharisee, however, the Lord’s teaching brought understanding to something I had experienced only weeks earlier. For by God’s mercy and grace, I had become the “new creation” described by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:17:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

A New Creation

The specific circumstances surrounding my born-again experience are the subject of another story. But the quick narrative is simply that in the selfish, sinful exercise of my own free will, I became completely, utterly dependent on God’s mercy to not only avoid personal devastation, but also to mitigate the anguish that my repulsive behavior would bring to others.

I needed the Lord’s intervention. I prayed. I repented. In desperation, I even made promises. Yes, I know it is silly to negotiate with God but my despair got the better of me. Praise the Lord, the sinful choices that I made He used for good.

The Gift of the Holy Spirit

He not only intervened, but God gifted me with His Holy Spirit to help me with those promises – and to save me for all eternity. I had been born again – regenerated in Christ as an adopted son of God the Father.

I felt much different. I had a fervor for God’s word which is precisely why Jesus’ teaching to Nicodemus was so enlightening to me. Moreover, I had a passion to be obedient to it – one that had not existed to that point in my life.

Rather than facing the deserved punishment for my evil choices, the Lord was merciful. But as monumental as this display of God’s love was to me at that time, it was but a microcosm of His relentless pursuit of my heart, soul and mind. Like every one of us, I warrant punishment for all of my sinful choices – all of my disobedience to His word.

Regeneration Follows Repentance

However, He did not, has not and will not subject me to that which I deserve. Instead, God sent His only begotten Son to take the penalty for me – and for all those who are in Christ. When we accept what Jesus did for us on the cross, we are cleansed of our sin. Our hearts are thus prepared to be led by the Holy Spirit. We are born again.

What does it mean to accept what Jesus did for us on the cross? As we know from John 3:16, faith in Christ is paramount. I believe that faith is manifested by repentance, and that repentance leads to regeneration. That is, one cannot be born again without acknowledging and repenting of our disobedience to God’s word.

Conclusion

As a pharisee educated in the words of the prophets, Nicodemus was undoubtedly familiar with Ezekiel 36:25-27:

“I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”

These words would underscore the ministry of John the Baptist as he prepared the way for the Lamb of God. He called on followers to repent of their sins and turn back to God – the symbol of which was water baptism in the River Jordan. John was the bridge between the prophets of the Old Testament and the Gospel of Jesus Christ, cleansing impurities so that the faithful would be indwelt by the Spirit of the Lord and moved to obedience.

In his letters, the Apostle Paul uses the terms “new man” or “new self” – living a “new life” in which our “deceitful desires” have been set aside for a life lived in “true righteousness and holiness.” I fall far short in living such a life. My sins, however, are washed clean by the blood of Christ. His Spirit leads me in repentance and in pursuit of a righteous and holy life.

Being “born again” is not just a thing. It is the thing.

If you have not yet become God’s new creation – and you will know if you have – I pray you will open your heart and mind to becoming just that. Read scripture. Pray. Repent. Jesus has already done the hard work on the cross. His Holy Spirit will do the rest.

Discovering Spiritual Truths through Music: “Trust in God”

Tom Ratkovich, , , , , , 1 Comment

In a recent FB post, a dear friend of mine characterized faith as a “fear of death scam.” Like many who have yet to know Christ, he revels in his unbelief.

I, for one, certainly do not fear death. Nor do I long for it. I see my time in this world as an opportunity to glorify God and strive to bring others to Him.

It was not always so. My friend, who has been more like a brother for fifty years, has seen me at my absolute worst. It is not unreasonable to think that my rebirth in Christ strained the limits of my credibility with him.

Because I love him, I pray for his change of heart. And because many others have also borne witness to the depths of my sin, I author this blog, hoping that the radical transformation that has manifested in me may prompt some to revisit the inherent truth in scripture.

I have addressed my friend’s unbelief in a prior post. As noted therein, I believe professing and advocating atheism is in itself an expression of fear.

I have not been shy about sharing the reasons for my faith. Many of these reasons are shared in a series of blog posts under the heading “Why I Believe.” Absent in those posts is the reason “fear of death.”

I truly believe that anyone who studies scripture with an open mind and tender heart cannot do so without being transformed by the love, grace and, yes, the logic embedded therein. It is also evident, however, that those with hardened hearts – those seeking reasons to ridicule those of faith and continue to glory in their love of the world – will likewise be successful.

In this, I speak from experience. For so much of my life, my heart was diseased by pride – by the need to glorify myself. Without the Lord’s intervention, I would remain ignorant of His word and disobedient to it.

God, in His immense goodness, rescued me at a time of bitter anguish. He allowed me, in the poor exercise of my own free will, to fall into a state of utter despair, knowing that I could escape only by putting my trust in Him.

As beautifully described in this worship song from Elevation Worship:

I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered
That’s why I trust Him, that’s why I trust in God

It was not a fear of death that led me to Christ. It was the fear of living without Him. Please have a listen.

Surrounded by Sin

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“They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they have no understanding, no fidelity, no love, no mercy. Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.” (Romans 1:29-32, NIV)

Who are “they?”

Continue reading “Surrounded by Sin” →

The Cancer of Hypocrisy in Evangelical Christianity

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Anyone who has perused the pages of this blog knows that I am not a fan of a Donald Trump presidency. They will also know that I pray for his repentance and his salvation.

My concern with the return of DJT to the White House has little to do with democracy, policy or the direction of our country. I have put my trust in God, knowing that His ways are not my ways. And the Lord has warned us repeatedly that turbulent times are in front of us.

“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5, NIV)

Rather, my anxiety has far more to do with what Trump’s re-election says about the leadership and the integrity of the white evangelical Christian community in this country.

Donald Trump is, after all, the poster child for 2 Timothy 3:1-5. I confess that I do not know his heart. Only God does. But I can observe his behavior. What I witness is a narcissist, a lover of money, a proud, boastful and abusive man without love for his neighbor – unmerciful, slanderous, adulterous – well, you get the picture. This point cannot be argued; the evidence is prima facie. And let’s not forget that he is a twice-impeached convicted felon, has been found liable for sexual assault, faces four outstanding criminal indictments and has proudly boasted of how he impresses women by grabbing them by the p**sy.

Read that last paragraph one more time. This is the man white evangelical Christians were instrumental in returning to office. Instead of having “nothing to do with such people,” as instructed by the Apostle Paul, they have empowered, endorsed and encouraged the evil so forcefully illustrated and condemned in scripture. Wow.

I am ready for the turbulent times before us. Prayer and scripture have prepared me. I will strive to glorify God by living my faith. I will, of course, fall short and seek His mercy and grace – knowing that it is the only path to eternal life.

Unfortunately, however, many are unprepared, vulnerable to the disingenuous faith of those who seek righteousness not through God’s mercy and grace but through their noble morality. They seek to legislate their morality to coerce behavior they believe make them “good people” – removing the choice to be obedient to God out of love. In their moralism, like the Pharisees, they fail to see grace.

The vulnerable bear witness to the hypocrisy. Is it surprising that they build a wall around themselves and project an unwillingness to hear God’s word given that the messenger is so compromised? In these last days, we must encourage a willingness to hear and live the Gospel – not push those who have yet to accept Christ to the edge of the cliff through hypocrisy, selfishness and hate.

As Christians, our aspiration must never be to simply be a “good person.” Such a mindset puts the focus on our own conduct rather than on the saving grace of Lord Jesus. We are sinners in need of a savior. Our one and only goal must be to be more like Christ.

The Lesson of Thyatira: Do Not Tolerate the Unrepentant

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In the Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ to the Apostle John, the church in Thyatira is the recipient of one of seven letters addressed to churches in Asia Minor. Each of these letters follows a similar format and begins with the Lord’s commandment to John to write to “the angel of the church” followed by an introduction to Christ as the effective author. The Lord then gives an assessment of the church which, for Thyatira, includes both praise and fervent rebuke. The lessons of this letter are critical to understanding the Christian faith and obedience to it.

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Discovering Spiritual Truths through Music: Scripture & the Environment

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Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” (Genesis 1:26-28)

From “the Beginning,” God has made man the custodians of the earth and all living things. Such a responsibility tasks humanity with the stewardship of all creation – not its exploitation. This is further underscored a few verses later in 2:15:

Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.

Although the Bible does not directly speak to modern ecological issues, there are foundational principles given throughout scripture that provide a framework for understanding mankind’s role as steward over the earth. In addition to God’s instruction in Genesis, for example, we see evidence of these in His directions to give rest to the land (Leviticus 25) and avoid waste (John 6:12).

Perhaps the strongest direction comes in the Lord’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” – and to understand that His instruction applies even to those yet to be born.

Here is a beautiful song from my friend Tom Mohr that will offer inspiration to those of us that understand our obligation to future generations.

The True Sons of Abraham: Defining Inheritance Through Faith

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For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. (Galatians 6:15-16)

There is robust debate between Dispensationalists and most other Christian factions about the Apostle Paul’s specific reference to the “Israel of God.” Dispensationalists, noting that nowhere in scripture is the church explicitly called Israel, maintain that the phrase refers to ethnic Jews who have embraced Christ. Such a position fits well with their end-times scenarios.

Many Christians see it differently – primarily (but not always) treating New Testament references to Israel as the Church – the entire community of believers in Christ Jesus regardless of heredity. Personally, this is the direction in which I lean, but must confess that I am far from a biblical scholar. Thankfully, I do not believe that this is a salvation issue.

Nonetheless, I am unmoved by the Dispensationalist argument, particularly when viewed within the larger context of the epistle. For me, Paul’s intent seems quite clear in Galatians 3:6-9:

Just as Abraham “believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, “In you all the nations shall be blessed.” So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.

Translation: Abraham’s faith made him righteous in the eyes of God. Those of faith – ONLY those of faith in Christ Jesus – share in that righteousness as the adopted sons of Abraham. Thus, it is not a bloodline that defines those that inherit the Lord’s blessing – it is faith in God. Those of faith are the true sons of Abraham – the true Israel. The CHURCH.

For they are not all Israel who are of Israel. (Romans 9:6)

Abraham, of course, had physical descendants. They became the nation of Israel – God’s chosen people with whom He established His covenants. Unfortunately, Israel failed to maintain its fidelity to those covenants. And it is through Israel’s failure that the door was opened to the Gentiles:

Through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. (Romans 11:11)

It was always God’s plan to graft in the nations (Romans 11:19-24) – those who were not physical descendants of Abraham. This is a consistent theme of the Old Testament as evidenced in the writings of the prophet Isaiah (56:6-7):

“Also the sons of the foreigner
Who join themselves to the Lord, to serve Him,
And to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants—
Everyone who keeps from defiling the Sabbath,
And holds fast My covenant—
Even them I will bring to My holy mountain,
And make them joyful in My house of prayer.
Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices
Will be accepted on My altar;
For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.”

The faith of Abraham was the instrument through which the Lord’s blessing would be available to all – those believers of ethnic descent as well as the Gentiles who, by their faith, are beneficiaries of His grace.

I have already opined that the specific meaning of Israel in the NT is not a salvation issue. So why expend excessive verbosity on the topic?

Because the conflation of God and country might be a salvation issue.

Christian Nationalists, for example, maintain that, like the OT Israel, theirs is God’s chosen nation – and that it was founded as such. Consequently, they seek to consecrate their illusory moral superiority into the law of the land.

I have posted time and again as to the many reasons why this is a bad idea – an un-Christian idea.

In ancient Israel, the law was integral to maintaining the identity and integrity of the nation as God’s chosen. The law was also God’s instrument for illuminating sin. Adam and Eve’s failure to obey a single command introduced sin into this world. The law exposed their descendant’s inability to maintain fidelity with God’s instruction.

So great was Israel’s disobedience that God, in His limitless love for His creation, sent His only begotten Son as a propitiation for that infidelity, and to codify a renewed covenant – one long promised by His prophets.

“Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah— not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)

Written on the hearts of those who seek to maintain faithfulness to this new covenant is this:

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:14)

The Christian Nationalists, however, see it differently. To them, the law is fulfilled by maintaining strict obedience to legal mandates – an outcome that antiquity has proven is an impossibility. That is why Jesus was sent to us.

Instead, they believe that, like ancient Israel, their nation is God’s chosen. They fail to recognize that God’s chosen is not a nation. It is the Israel of God – the CHURCH.

We will not be judged as a country, but as believers in Christ Jesus. Faith is a choice that we must make as individuals. It is not one that can be legislated or made for us.

Is it a salvation issue if Christian Nationalists seek to remove that choice? I pray that it is not. Though there is nothing Christian about Nationalism, I believe that most will have the right answer to the big question: “Who do you say that I am?”

I fear, however, that by throwing up roadblocks for those of us who seek to bring people to Christ through love and compassion rather than guilt and compulsion, their rewards in heaven will be diminished.

“Every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” (Luke 6:43-45)

Christian Nationalists: The One Question They Get Right…and the Two They Completely Butcher

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In a recent post, I lauded the Apostle Peter for his response to the question posed by the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 16:15: “Who do you say that I am?”

This is the question to which the Christian faithful have been gifted with the only answer that ensures eternity with the Lord:

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16)

Continue reading “Christian Nationalists: The One Question They Get Right…and the Two They Completely Butcher” →

Christian Nationalists: The Modern-Day Pharisees

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The Torah lists 613 laws covering various facets of Jewish life including worship, hygiene, food and family – 365 of which are prohibitions, 248 are positive instructions. Of the Mosaic law, the Ten Commandments are certainly the most famed.

To these 613, the Pharisees layered another 1500+ rules and regulations, elevating them to the level of scripture.

The Pharisees, of course, were frequently the object of Jesus Christ’s displeasure. He condemned their greed, hypocrisy and pride.

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Discovering Spiritual Truths through Music: The Prisoner

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Perhaps some who have perused this blog in the past will recall that my favorite passages in the Bible are those describing the prophecy of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25:31-46. These verses underscore how we display our vertical love for God – and describe the manifestation of the horizontal love we have for others.

But a brief phrase in verse 36 has puzzled me.

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The Eternal Blessings of Mercy and Forgiveness

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While recovering from hip replacement surgery, I spent much of the past week in front of my computer striving to up my social media game. I’ve got a long way to go.

I also took the opportunity to tinker with an AI tool for the first time, posing a simple question: what are the benefits of forgiveness? In a split second, an essay conveying a dozen mental and physical dividends was spewed my way. The rewards included improved mental health, enhanced relationships, emotional healing, heightened self-esteem, and reduced risk of such health issues as high blood pressure, cardiovascular stress and a weakened immune system. (But nothing about my hip!)

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Who Are “the Least of These My Brethren?”

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“Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.”

Matthew 25:40 NKJV

As noted in earlier posts, I believe this instruction from the Lord Jesus given in the prophecy of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31-46) is fundamental to our salvation. It is directed to those “blessed of My Father,” who will “inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” In other words, the sheep.

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Understanding Unbelief: A Christian Viewpoint

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I keep telling myself to get off Facebook once and for all. I invariably find myself getting worked up over what I see. Not angry, really…just kind of disappointed with humanity. While there are indeed moments of harmony and kindness, I seem to just as readily find discourtesy, disrespect and, all too frequently, rage.

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Armageddon: Humanity’s Fragile Existence and Faith in the Last Days

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My favorite movie of all-time is Armageddon.

Seriously.

Apparently, I’m a dupe for feel-good action movies that unite humor, romance, bravery and Bruce Willis (Die Hard is in my top ten). This is one of those.

It is also a reminder, for those that need one, that ours is a fragile existence – both that of our planet and of the human race.

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“Faith” as an Insurance Policy

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I have shared some of my reasons for personally concluding that the Bible represents God’s perfect word. That conclusion did not come without the Lord’s intervention in my life, followed by years of study, prayer and observation. So I was troubled by a recent Facebook post that crossed my screen. It read as follows:

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Navigating Friction, Overcoming Pride & Embracing Responsibility

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We cannot escape it. We live with it every minute of every day – in our human interactions and in the choices that we make.

Those of us in Christ often endeavor to hand those interactions and choices over to the Holy Spirit to lead us in making decisions that are consistent with God’s will. But it seems fewer and fewer of us willingly make that handoff.

Dictionary.com defines friction as “dissension or conflict between persons, nations, etc., because of differing ideas, wishes, etc.”

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The Dilemma of Tolerance vs. Exaltation

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Prevailing cultural norms embrace tolerance as among the highest of virtues. Intolerance, society declares, reeks of judgment and condemnation.

As a Christian, I struggle not only with my own sin, but how I react to the transgression of God’s commands by others. Many rightfully fear that by tolerating sin, they act hypocritically. But the greater hypocrisy often stems from those who, in their intolerance, breach the Lord’s great commandment to love your neighbor as yourself.

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For the Love of God: Deciphering the Sheep & the Goats

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“In the end, that Face which is the delight or the terror of the universe must be turned on each one of us . . . either conferring glory inexpressible or inflicting shame that can never be cured or disguised.”

C.S. Lewis

For me, the Bible’s consummate message is found in the 25th chapter of the Book of Matthew – specifically verses 31-46.

Some characterize this passage as the parable of the sheep and the goats. My quibble with such a characterization is that I believe this episode is not a parable at all, but a prophecy of what the Lord’s return for His faithful will engender.

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Biblical Revelation: Embracing God’s Word and His Inerrant Truth

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I’ve always considered myself to be a Christian. I really knew nothing else. I believed because my parents taught me to believe. I was baptized in the Serbian Orthodox Church. I served as an altar boy and drove my Baba and Dzedo (grandma and grandpa) to church when they were no longer able to do so themselves. I played on St. Steven’s basketball and softball teams, and bowled in our church league.

To the St. Steven’s community, I was engaged, obedient and faithful. It was, at best, dishonest.

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