This Blog's purpose is to offer information about congregations voting to leave the ELCA. Pastor Barnhart's other Blog offers information about current news events relating to the Church and the nation. It may be found here: http://livinginthetimes.blogspot.com/



Tuesday, September 29, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on the things above, not on the things that are on eath. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory (Colossians 3:1-4).


While living on earth may make it difficult to focus on heaven and the things of heaven, that is our calling in Christ. How may we do this? By absorbing God's Word into our hearts every day and remembering whose we are. Our life is Christ, not the hurts, passions and challenges of this present time. As the hymn reminds us: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace."


Lord, lift me above the trials and challenges of today, until I see Jesus only. Let me bask in the sunlight of your love and grace in the midst of all situations. You, O Lord, are my life, my joy, my all. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Gaffney: Iran on Brink of Having Nuclear Bomb, Using It


Leading national security expert Frank Gaffney tells Newsmax we could be in the "last days" before Iran obtains nuclear weapons — and he warns that if they do, they absolutely will use them.
He also said Iran's weapons program is designed for "unprecedented" destruction, and called the Obama administration's decision to scrap the missile defense shield in Eastern Europe a "major mistake."

Monday, September 28, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full ov joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil (Romans 16:16-19).


Paul's counsel to those who encounter those who promote evil and false teachings that conflict with the Word of God is to identify them and avoid them. The alternative is to enter into compromising situations that could lead to spiritual ruin or cause our faithfulness to God to be questioned.


Lord, open my mind and heart to your truth. Help me not to mistake compromise with evil as a form of love, but to walk daily in the counsel of Your Word in which I find both love and truth. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

CORE GATHERS IN INDIANAPOLIS BUT RESOLVES LITTLE


About 1200 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America members and clergy gathered in Indiana for a meeting of the Lutheran Coalition for Renewal (CORE) this past weekend. They adopted a constitution, but determined to wait a year to see how things go within the ELCA regarding the homosexual issue that is now threatening to divided the largest Lutheran church in the U.S.


CORE is anything but conservative. It is not a viable choice for those who wish to stand up for the truth and leave the ELCA. It is "ELCA Light." The organization does not recognize the Bible as "the inspired, inerrant Word of God." Many of its clergy are quite liberal in their views on doctrine and social issues. Most associated with CORE seem ready to stay and work inside the ELCA, which means it will have little or no impact whatsoever changing the wayward church. Since it would appear that hundreds of congregations are moving to dissociate themselves from the ELCA, its leaders are likely pleased that CORE wants to find a way to work within the existing body rather than bail.


There are so many good choices for ELCA congregations that want to get out of a denomination that broke faith with 2000 years of biblical teaching. Those congregations and clergy that choose the way of CORE by "hanging in there" with those who hijacked the ELCA will find only heartache and disappointment. Get out now and follow the Scriptures, not those whose goal is to compromise the faith.


Over the weekend the ELCA announced that Community Church of Joy in Glendale, Arizona voted to leave the ELCA. This 6500-member church represents a sizable loss to the ELCA and an object lesson in what every Scripture-loving ELCA church should be doing to preserve their heritage.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


How blessed is the man who does not walk not in the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers, but his delight is in the law of the Lord..." (Psalm 1:1-2).


These are days when every Christian must decide which side he or she is on. It has become so easy to walk the path of compromise, which leads to compromise, which leads to compromise. We must become like Joshua when he said: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."


Lord, help me to walk today in the counsel of your Word. Enable me not to veer to the right or to the left in order to please others, but may my heart's desire be to please You in all I say and do. Through Jesus Christ my Lord, I pray. Amen.

ELCA "CORE" MEETS TO CONSIDER SHAKE-UP IN LUTHERANISM

About 1200 Lutherans are meeting this weekend to discuss their future with ELCA. Hundreds of ELCA churches across the country are evaluating their relationship with ELCA since they voted to accept homosexual clergy. More to come on this vital decision.
http://www.christianpost.com/article/20090925/traditional-lutherans-mull-alternate-path/index.html

IRAN'S NUKE ENRICHMENT PLANT MAY BE OPERATIONAL SOON


The revelation that Iran has a nuclear enrichment plant hidden underground is a very serious problem not only for Israel but for the whole world. Will world leaders do anything to stop it, or will that task be left to Israel?

Thursday, September 24, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith....Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account (Hebrews 13:7, 17).


The Bible reminds us to faithfully pray for our pastors and spiritual leaders, and to follow their example. It also directs us to obey them and submit to them in the Lord. This biblical instruction, of course, is based on the fact that our pastor and spiritual leaders are preaching and teaching the true Word of God, as well as living it out. Pastors are reminded that one day they must give an account to God for the stewardship of their ministry. Those of us who have godly pastors must remember to pray for them, especially in troubled times like these. Christians who are under the ministry of pastors who are not upholding the Word of God should flee from their influence for the sake of their own spiritual welfare and that of their families.


Lord, bless and keep my pastor today. Bless his life, his family and his ministry. Help me to show my support for him as I take my place and carry out my responsibilities in the congregation. This I pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.

BISHOP MARK HANSON CONCERNED AS NUMEROUS CONGREGATIONS QUESTION THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH ELCA


Since the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Churchwide Assembly voted in August to sanction practicing homosexuals as members of its clergy, congregations across the country are evaluating if they want to continue their relationship with the ELCA. By the time the next churchwide assembly takes place in 2011, the ELCA will likely have lost hundreds of congregations and millions of dollars in contributions.


Abiding Word Ministries and various conservative Lutheran Church bodies have been receiving numerous inquiries from ELCA congregations, pastors and laity regarding changing their affilliation. And well they should, since the prohomosexual lobby's takeover of the ELCA is only the first installment in a series of actions that will continue to erode the legitimacy of the ELCA to even be called a "church."


The situation is dire enough already that ELCA Bishop Mark Hanson has sent a pastoral letter encouraging congregations to stay the course.


Wednesday, September 23, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything to stand firm (Ephesians 6:13).


It's one thing to profess making a stand for the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus; it is quite another to put that profession into action. Today many churches and individual Christians are coming apart at the seams. That is certainly true of our nation's spiritual life as well. How important that every true believer put on the full armor of God, and not just talk about taking a stand, but actually stand up for Jesus! It may cost us something; it may even cost us much! But what on this earth is of more value than upholding God's Word in the face of the enemy's attacks?


Lord, help me today to make a difference in this troubled world, not only through the things I say, but in the fullest measure of my life's devotion to You and Your Word! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

HELPING ELCA PEOPLE FIND A BIBLE-BASED LUTHERAN CHURCH


Many members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) are now looking for a new place to worship, since their denomination voted to sanction practicing homosexual clergy. Many ELCA members, or as I call them--refugees, do not know there are other choices within Lutheranism where the Word of God is upheld and proclaimed.
One aspect of the ELCA's decision to sanction homosexual perversions, regardless of the Bible's teachings against such, is that many people lump all Lutherans into the same mold. Thankfully, that is not the case, but getting the story out about true Bible-based Lutheranism can be a challenge.

Pastor Curtis Emerson of Peace Lutheran Church, Canal Winchester, Ohio, developed a solid ad for area papers to inform people in general, and ELCA folks in particular, about his congregation's stand on the Word of God and on other issues of concern. He has had some good response so far from these ads. He has given me permission to share the ad's contents, with the hope it might be helpful to other Bible-based Lutheran congregations that desire to reach out to fellow Lutherans of the ELCA who are both hurting and searching.


Surely this is an opportune time to launch such endeavors.



Welcome Back To Biblical Lutheranism!

Peace Free Lutheran Church and Christian Center, 28 Elm Street, Canal Winchester, Ohio stands on the truth found in the Scriptures and we are a member of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, AFLC.
1. We believe the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word of God.
2. We affirm that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation.
3. We affirm each local congregation should be free and living, subject only to the Word and the Spirit of God.
4. We affirm the sacredness of marriage between one man and one woman.
5. We affirm the teaching of Scripture that we all are sinners in need of repentance and faith in the finished work of Jesus on the Cross of Calvary.
6. We affirm the sacredness of human life from conception through death.

Peace Free Lutheran Church and Christian Center exists to joyfully praise, serve and reach out for Jesus. Our website is
http://www.peacecw.org/, telephone 614-837-6689,
and the AFLC web site is
http://www.aflc.org/. Come visit and be refreshed at a Biblically Lutheran Church.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

FORMER DIPLOMAT SAYS "SHOOT DOWN ISRAELI JETS IF THEY FLY TO IRAN


Former National Security advisor to President Carter, Zbigniew Brzezinski, wants Obama to shoot down Israeli jets should they fly to Iran to take out their nuclear facilities. What a horrible sign this is for US/Israeli relations. Sadly, there are folks in the Obama administration who feel the same as Brzezinski concerning when it comes to Israel.

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture (John 10:9).


Jesus had much to say about "being saved." Too many seem to recoil from that expression, failing to understand that "being saved" in this life has everything to do with the life to come. Being saved is not based on church membership or on good works; it is based on having a right relationship with God. This relationship is a free gift of God's grace as by faith alone we claim salvation which Christ won for us on the cross and through His resurrection from the dead. Salvation comes from Christ alone as a free give. Have you received that gift. If so rejoice and live out your days on the earth with confidence and hope. If you have not received God's free gift of salvation, or if you are unsure, invite Christ into your life today.


Lord, I come before you today a sinner in need of salvation. I believe you died for my sins on the cross. I believe you were raised from the dead for my justification. I earnestly repent of my sins and ask for the cleansing blood of Christ to cover me. Write my name down in the Lamb's Book of Life and make me your child, now and forever. Fill me with your Holy Spirit, that I may lead of life of victory and joy in Jesus. This I pray in the Name of my Redeemer and Lord, Amen.

Friday, September 18, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).


This second verse in our "He Is Able" series focuses our attention on two glorious promises: (1) He is able to save forever. Here in this promise lies our assurance of salvation. We can live each day or go to sleep each night knowing we are saved forever through the blood and merits of our Savior Jesus Christ. (2) Jesus is in heaven at this very moment making intercession for us before the throne of His and our heavenly Father. Such knowledge is beyond all we could ask or think!


Lord, thank you for this new day and the assurance I am yours and You are mine! Let me rest knowing that my life, here and for all eternity, is secure in your love! Help me daily to reflect this wonderful knowledge in my conduct and through my testimony of your love and grace. This I pray through Christ, my Savior. Amen

SCHOOL OFFICIALS IN FLORIDA CLEARED


A judge today cleared the principal of Pace High School in Florida of a criminal contempt charge after the American Civil Liberties Union complained that Frank Lay and Athletic Director Robert Freeman violated a court order.
Freeman also had faced the same criminal contempt charge, but also was cleared.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

LAWMAKERS BACK SCHOOL LEADERS ON TRIAL FOR PRAYER


The attacks on Christians and on the Church in America are increasing day by day. Pray for those who are in the midst of this war for truth and freedom. It is amazing how many Americans today seem ready to roll over and accept the loss of our freedoms. Surely, it's time to stand up for America.

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).


Everyone you know is either saved or lost. People are either going to heaven or they are going to hell. Most people today do not know which way "up" is spiritually; they wander aimlessly looking for all the right answers in all the wrong places. This is why Jesus called His followers both "salt" and "light." In this turbulent world, we are under the command of our Lord to go into the world with the gospel of salvation. While many refuse the Lord's gracious invitation, many others will receive it, and their lives will be forever changed. Out task is to "go" and "proclaim" the gospel. The results are God's. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."


Father, today let me share your burden for this lost world by being both salt and light. Help me, by example, to lift up the love of Jesus to a world that has no concept of true love. May I not fear what men may say, but instead, seek only to faithfully carry out your work and witness. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. (Jude 24-25).


This is one of the "God is able" verses of Scripture. Each one of these verses accents some aspect of God's ability to cleanse, save, keep, and satisfy our most basic needs. But this "God is able" verse in Jude caps them all and brings us at length to the throne of God where we along with the saints and angels will joyfully worship, praise and adore the King of kings and Lord of lords. Let us rest today in this blessed promise and rejoice that God is able to get us safely from here to there--there meaning to our home in heaven and into the glorious presence of our Father!


Lord, let me walk today in the light of this promise, knowing that whatever happens you are able to bring me through it with joy and victory! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

JUST HOW MANY MARCHED IN WASHINGTON, D.C. LAST SATURDAY?

The crowd protesting major issues that threaten to destroy America that marched last Saturday in Washington, D.C. has been estimated between 60,000 and 2 million. That is quite a difference. Frankly, it would appear the lower count is a deliberate attempt to dismiss the importance of this rally. Let them say what they will...take a look for yourself.
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=109844

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


The Spirit and the bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost (Revelation 22:17).


The spectacular events of judgement contained in the book of Revelation reveal the one, true and Holy God will have the last word in all the affairs of men and nations. He will right every wrong and send forth His judgement on all who defied His Word. This great book also reveals the glory that awaits the saints who were washed in the blood of Christ and who nobly stood steadfast to the end. But, what amazes me most about the last verses contained in this last book of the Bible is that God concludes with an invitation to salvation. Today, God is still calling sinners to repent and come to Him, before it's too late! Many believe they have all the time in the world to get right with God, but there will come a time when God's invitation to salvation will cease for everyone. Isaiah declared: "Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call upon Him while He is near..." (Isaiah 55:6).


Lord, I do not want to go out into eternity lost. I believe Christ died on the cross for my sins, He was buried and raised from the dead in order that I may have Life. I earnestly repent of my sins and pray Your Holy Spirit enters my heart with your saving grace that I may be your redeemed child now and forever. Through Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.

Monday, September 14, 2009

12-YEAR-OLD MUSLIM GIRL DIES IN CHILDBIRTH


In my book Living in the Times of the Signs, I write about Islamic sharia law that permits young girls to enter into marriage with the consent of their parents. This is not an infrequent happening in the Islamic world. Why the media is so reluctant to report such cases, and why our government leaders are so covered over with political correctness that they refuse to denounce such a practice is beyond comprehenson. Islamic leaders are even more to blame for allowing this sort of thing to take place. May God have mercy on the victims and help political and religious leaders to wake up to realize how the Islamic religion is used to victimize so many innocent men, women and children. The killing, maiming, beating that is all done in the name of ALLAH is should be condemned by everyone, but especially by Islamic leaders.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


"If you love Me, you will keep my commandments," John 14:15.
"Here is the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus" (Revelation 14:12).


The great issue of life is not telling God we love Him, but demonstrating our love for Him through true obedience to His Word. Churches, as well as Christian, may profess their love for God, but when they embrace doctrines, teachings and practices that are contrary to His Word, they lie and do not speak according to the truth. God will not be mocked; neither will He be deceived.


Father, keep us steadfast in your Word! Teach us to love you as you have loved us. Send your Holy Spirit into our hearts, that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify You Holy Name! Through Your Son, our Savior, Amen.


THE ELCA HAS BEEN HIJACKED


Ever since the decision by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) to sanction homosexual clergy in their churches, the phones are ringing in the offices Abiding Word Ministries and in the offices of conservative Lutheran bodies and organizations. ELCA members want to know how they can get their congregations to withdraw from a church body that clearly has sanctioned homosexual perversions. Other callers want someone to recommend a good church in their area where they can be spiritually fed.

ELCA congregations all over the country are holding informational meetings to discuss whether or not to continue their relationship with the denomination. Synod bishops are urging the folks to stay and work together in an atmosphere of dialogue and respect for one another’s views. Many pastors are likewise urging their members to stay and fight. But, the truth is this—the ELCA has been hijacked by powerful and influential liberal forces. Moreover, the hijacking was done in broad daylight with regular announcements that it was going to happen.

The ELCA is not coming back, and wishing it so will not make it happen! The takeover is complete. The primary issue facing this purloined church body is not homosexuality but the authority of Scripture. There is no longer an ELCA seminary in the country that teaches, or allows to be taught, the historic Lutheran doctrine that the Bible is the pure, infallible and inerrant Word of God.

When the ELCA was formed in 1988, they deliberately rejected defining the Bible as the “inspired, infallible and inerrant Word of God,” a definition that was used throughout the history of the American Lutheran Church. The definition of biblical authority chosen by the ELCA was even watered down from the historic Lutheran confessions which state: “We believe, teach, and confess that the prophetic and apostolic writings of the Old and New Testaments are the only rule and norm according to which all doctrines and teachers alike must be appraised and judged.”

THE ELCA CONSTITUTION: 2.03. DECLARES: This church accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life. The ELCA deliberately left out the word “only” when referring to “the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life.” And so it came to pass at the August 2009 Churchwide Assembly in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the ELCA threw the Scripture in the gutter and opted, instead, for the politically correct “authoritative source” that has been promoted within that church body for the last 30 years.

The only choice left to ELCA congregations, members and clergy is the choice to compromise the Word of God or stand fast in its truth. There is irony today when ELCA members open their hymn books and sing the last verse of Luther’s great hymn “A Mighty Fortress is our God”:

That word above all earthly powers,
No thanks to them abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours,
Thro’ Him who with us sideth.
Let goods and kindred go,
This moral life also;
The body they may kill:
God’s truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever.

Too many seem to forget that the Lutheran Church was founded upon the Word of God, and the Reformers who founded it deemed earthly possessions and even life itself unworthy if it meant God’s revealed truth had to be compromised.

One pastor in Pennsylvania was quoted as encouraging his members to remain in the ELCA by reminding them that their “loyalty was to the ELCA.” But that is a lie! Every Christian’s loyalty is to Christ and His Word, not to a denomination or to a pastor. Do those who are promoting staying in the ELCA think they can stand before Christ on the Day of Judgment and win His approval by rationalizing: “Lord, we may have lost the faith, but at least you will be pleased to know we kept the property!

Wake up ELCA members! Stand for Christ and His truth! The Lord is coming soon. He is not coming back for a harlot church, but for His precious bride, adorned in the robes of His righteousness. Your true loyalty is to Christ not the ELCA. There is Life with a capital “L” outside the ELCA! There are still Lutheran churches, some large, some small, that faithfully uphold the Bible as the “only rule and norm according to which all doctrines and teachers alike must be appraised and judged.”

Saturday, September 12, 2009

9/12 CROWD ESTIMATED AT 2 MILLION


The number of people in Washington D.C. today for the 9/12 event has been estimated at 2 million. The White House says they don't know who these people are. They had better figure it out soon! Liberty is on the move...

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint (Isaiah 40:31).


One of the most difficult experiences of life is to wait for something we desperately want or desire. This is especially true in spiritual matters. We pray, we ask, we believe, but waiting for God to answer is our greatest challenge. Lest we forget, God is never late! He gives what and when He deems best. Herein is faith--trusting and waiting upon the Lord.


Lord, your promises are new to us every morning. Great is Your faithfulness. Teach us daily not only to pray aright but to confidently wait on your will and perfect timing. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

EPISCOPAL NUNS FLEE LIBERAL CHURCH TO BECOME ROMAN CATHOLIC


A group of nuns from the Baltimore area determined they could no longer accept the liberalism found in today's Episcopal Church, so 10 of them have joined the Roman Catholic Church. "As we interpret Scripture, it does not give you license to be actively involved in a same-sex relationship," said Mother Christina Christie, who became a nun in 1966. "It is not the person we have a problem with. It is what that person is doing. And now that the Episcopal Church has given permission to bless these partnerships, it is way off the boat."The Catholic Church teaches that homosexuality is "intrinsically disordered." It celebrates marriages only between men and women. Also joining the church was the Rev. Warren Tanghe, the sisters' chaplain.

Friday, September 11, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Open the gates, that the righteous nation may enter, the one that remains faithful (Psalm 26:2).


On this 8th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America, our thoughts go back to that day when Islamic terrorists attacked us out of a total hatred for all we represent. Since that fateful day, we, as a nation, have not turned to God in repentance for our many grevious sins. Instead, we have grown more distant and cold spiritually. Let us pray that a spiritual awakening will yet come to this land. Let us pray that revival will come to America's churches, so that they may offer leadership and guidance in such a time as this.


Father in heaven, our hearts are heavy today with the memory of 9/11, 2001. Even so, Lord, help us as a nation to repent and confess our many sins. Help us to look, not to military might or governmental agencies for protection, but to you, O Lord, who are truly our rock and our salvation. Turn back the hearts of America's political leaders, clergy and citizens, that we might, in true repentance and faith, look to you as the one, true and living God, in order that our nation may be healed. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, we pray. Amen.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

THE SEARCH FOR OIL BENEATH THE DEAD SEA


An Israeli consortium that includes a group largely responsible for the recent discovery of natural gas deposits off the country's Mediterranean coast plans to begin exploratory drilling for oil at the Dead Sea next month.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

AL-QAEDA SAYS 9/11-STYLE ATTACK IS COMING TO GERMANY


Jihadists close to al-Qaeda explicitly warned in new communications that Germany will be the target of the next 9/11-scale terrorist attack. The timing of the strike, they say, will be within the next few weeks.
According to analysts with the Institute of Terrorism Research and Response (ITRR), a recently intercepted jihadist communication declares that "everyone knows" that the "next strike is very near, a strike that will surprise everyone in its effect, which will be much more shocking than that of 9/11/2001." The writer of the chilling message notes that this is the Muslim month of Ramadan and that "we pray that it will indeed be in this month."

ANOTHER ARCHAEOLOGICAL FIND IN ISRAEL


Israeli archeologists unveiled never before seen historical artifacts from a recent discovery of a Judean Hills cave used by Jewish refugees during the Bar Kokhba rebellion in 132-35 CE. The findings were presented at a press conference held at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Wednesday morning.

CHAVEZ SAYS ISRAEL GUILTY OF GENOCIDE


PARIS, Sept 9 (Reuters) - Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has accused Israel of genocide against the Palestinian people, telling a French newspaper that the bombing of Gaza late last year was an unprovoked attack.

LIEBERMAN: US NEED TO PREPARE FOR BIOLOGICAL ATTACK


Washington (CNSNews.com) – The chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Committee says it is time to do something to make the United States safer from the threat of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Sen. Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.) said the U.S. is in no better position today than it was in December 2008, when a government commission warned that Americans were not safe from an attack with biological weapons -- and that a terrorist attack involving a WMD was likely to occur somewhere in the world by 2013.

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth (1 Timothy 3:14-15).


Paul knew how to shepherd the churches that he established. Sadly, this cannot be said of many pastors today, who seem to place their own welfare ahead of their role as shepherds. Paul defines the church as "the piller and support of the truth." It is the pastor's supreme responsiblity to proclaim the truth of God's Word under all circumstances, no matter what the cost. How we conduct ourselves in the church and before a watching world depends on hearing, believing and keeping the Word of God.


Many churches in the 21st century no longer seem to know the difference between the truth and a lie. Churches that think they can endorse sin and false teachings will have a rude awakening. Rise up O Church of God! Christians who are members of churches that have endorsed sin and call evil a "virtue" need to make their stand for Christ while they may! Let us be found faithful, not to denominations, but to God!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

UN SAYS NEW GLOBAL CURRENCY IS NEEDED


The Geneva-based UN Conference on Trade Development, in a recently released report, has called for a new global currency as the dollar's replacement as the world's main reserve currency. Other countries that earlier called for the same include China, Russian, India and Brazil.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


GOD'S GRACE IS SUFFICIENT

Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9).


Charles Spurgeon, the great English preacher, once illustrated this verse by comparing our personal concern for God's care and provision to a little fish in a big river, that was afraid the river would dry up before his thirst would be satisfied. Herb Franz, another great preacher, often inquired: "Are you living under the spout where the glory comes out?" Whatever your need today, be it forgiveness, healing, strength or supply, know for certain God's grace is sufficient to cover it all. Approach your Father's throne boldly!


Lord, forgive me for failing to trust in the sufficiency of your grace. Grant that I may drink deeply from the fountain of grace and trust you completely for my every need, through Christ our Lord. Amen.


Saturday, September 5, 2009

SWEDEN TO OUTLAW HOME SCHOOLING


Let us never take freedom for granted! Home School in the United States is more important than ever before as perverted, convoluted textbooks and liberal indoctrination permeate the instruction in public schools today. The fact that Sweden is set to ban home schools should give us all cause for pause.

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


The Lord nullifies the counsel of the nations; He frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart from generation to generation. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen for His own inheritance (Psalm 33:10-12).


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
As we approach Labor Day weekend, with unemployment at 9.7% or 16.8% if all the unemployed are included, we need to pray for all those who are included in these statistics. Each individual in the ranks of the unemployed has his or her own struggles trying to make ends meet. God help them all.

In the meantime, let us recognize that without God, men or nations cannot hope to prosper. The longer we as a nation or as individuals try to run our affairs without His guiding hand and counsel, we will continue to reap what we sow.

America, her churches and all her citizens need to cease our rebellion against God's Word. We need to turn back to God while there is yet time. Although God is loving and merciful, He will not always strive with man!


PRAYER FOR TODAY
Lord, we praise you that nothing ever takes you by surprise or is beyond your loving concern. We pray that your grace and benediction may abide with those who labor, and especially with those who would labor if they could. Give us a sense of accomplishment in the work of our hands, and help us to show our thankfulness by lives that are given to Your service.

Bring America to her knees! Lead us to repent of our sins with true and sincere hearts. Lift the eyes of our leaders and all our people toward heaven that we may again be truly "one nation under God. This we pray through Jesus Christ, the only Hope of America and of the world. Amen.


COMMUNIST-CHINA FLAG TO FLY AT WHITE HOUSE


The Chinese flag is scheduled to fly at the White House in celebration of the 60th anniversary of The People's Republic of China. The fact that China now holds the mortgage on most of the buildings in Washington, D.C., including the White House, may help to explain this sad moment in American history.

Friday, September 4, 2009

REFORMED CHURCH IN AMERICA SAYS THEY WILL NOT CUT TIES WITH ELCA


The Reformed Church in America, the once conservative but now very liberal denomination in which Robert Schuller holds membership, is sticking with its "full communion" relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Pastor Kevin DeYoung of University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Mich., stated in his blog that the Gospel is at stake if the RCA remains in full communion with the ELCA.
Calling ELCA's action egregious, DeYoung urged his denomination to break its relationship with the Lutherans.
"What do we do when a denomination perverts the grace of our God into sensuality (Jude 4) – and not just a few renegade churches here and there, but the whole denomination in its official decision making capacity?" DeYoung posed. "Homosexuality is, as J.I. Packer has argued, a heretical issue because it denies a central tenet of the gospel – repentance."

CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH


To those members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and other liberal churches who are struggling over your church's recent decision to sanction practicing homosexual clergy and approve same-sex relationships, please know there are many avenues of help and counsel. Abiding Word Ministries offers newsletters and books that deal directly with this issue, such as Contending for the Faith. We can also send you information on the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations. Write, phone or email us for a copy of Contending for the Faith and other helpful information.

Abiding Word Ministries

P.O. Box 275

Canal Winchester, OH 43110

Phone: (614) 834-5206

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. (Jude 24-25).


How is God able to do such great things in our lives? Once we receive His free gift of salvation through faith alone, He enters our lives in the power of the Holy Spirit to sustain, bless and keep us in His Grace! As Jesus told His disciples, "Do not be afraid, little flock, it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Today, and everyday, let us confidently turn our eyes upon Jesus.


Father, there are no words to adequately praise you for salvation, full and free, and for all the blessings we enjoy daily as your children. Help us to walk each step today in your strength and under the banner of your heavenly benediction. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


"Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me" (Psalm 50:15).


Are you facing a special challenge today? You can meet the challenges of each day triumphantly with the assurance of God's promised grace and power.


Lord, I praise you for your love, mercy and goodness. Overwhelm my heart with faith and teach me to lean on the everlasting arms of Jesus in every circumstance. Help me today to let my light shine, that others may know the joy of being redeemed through the precious blood of Jesus. This I pray through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

WILL THE NEW NIV BIBLE BE GENDER-INCLUSIVE?


The New International Version of the Bible is scheduled for a major revision. A number of years ago gender-inclusive version of the NIV was marketed. There are many who think this latest update will go far beyond that non-sexist revision. Let us hope they will remain true to the ancient and most reliable texts, rather than to offer up a politically correct version in the name of scholarship.

TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

BEN AND JERRY'S OFFERS NEWLY NAMED ICE CREAM IN "FLAVOR" OF GAY MARRIAGE


You can't make this stuff up, as crazy as it sounds. Ben and Jerry's long known for their support of liberal causes will offer a special brand of ice cream for the next thirty days, dubbed "Hubby Hubby."

JAN MARKELL OF OLIVE TREE MINISTRIES COMMENTS ON CHRISITIANS JOINING ISLAM TO CELEBRATE RAMADAN


Jan Markell of Olive Tree Ministries offers a most enlightening article on Emergent Church leader Brian McLaren's counsel that Christians help Muslims celebrate Ramadan. David Barnhart will appear on one of Jan Markell's radio broadcasts in September. They will discuss various matters pertaining to Israel, including replacement theology. For those in the Minnesota area, Jan has a fantastic prophecy conference sheduled in October. Check out her web site.

Why Must Everything Change?Jan Markell www.olivetreeviews.org August 31, 2009

The false teachings among some prominent church leaders have no end nor does the race to unify all religions. My thanks to Mark Tooley of the Institute for Religion and Democracy, World Net Daily, and author Joel Richardson for some background here. Fasten your seat belt because now we have Christians observing Ramadan. This goes miles beyond Muslim-Christian dialogue, which is bad enough. This is actually giving respectability to those who killed 3,000 innocent Americans who are even more on our mind in this season of 9/11. Once again, I have to ask, where is the outrage? Emergent Church leader Brian McLaren is fasting during the Islamic Ramadan but is he fasting so that Muslims would come to salvation in Jesus Christ alone? And Tooley asks, "Would McLaren organize a similar fast on behalf of persecuted Christians and other victims of radical Islam? Or would that be too culturally confrontational for the post-modern evangelical who has shunned his conservative past and prefers creating common ground that creates alliances for the Left?" McLaren says on his blog: "Ramadan is the Muslim holy month of fasting for spiritual renewal and purification. It commemorates the month during which Muslims believe Mohammed received the Quran through divine revelation, and it calls Muslims to self-control, sacrificial generosity, and solidarity with the poor, diligent reading of the Quran and intensified prayer."

He continues, "But as Christians, we want to come close to our Muslim neighbors and to share this important part of life with them."
Here we go honoring Islam again, just as they did in 2007 and 2008 with "A Common Word Between Us and You." Today's bunch of short-on-discernment leaders now observing Ramadan prove my point: Slippery slopes go only one way -- down -- and never turn around. And please tell me as an evangelical, what is it we will learn from Islam? McLaren states, "We, as Christians, humbly seek to join Muslims in this observance of Ramadan as a God-honoring expression of peace, fellowship, and neighborliness. Each of us will have at least one Muslim friend who will serve as our partner in the fast. These friends welcome us in the same spirit of peace, fellowship, and neighborliness." None of that counts for eternity, Brian. It stretches credulity to watch the religious Left continue to forge unholy alliances with some who are sworn enemies of the gospel and who are burning down Christian villages around the world and cutting off the heads of other Christians. And they will continue to do the same until they hear and respond to the "good news" of Jesus Christ, which is not the purpose of the Christian Ramadan effort! Yet an underlying motive with all such efforts is to declare the God of Christianity and the god of Islam as the same. If you get nothing else, remember that when such words come out of the pulpit in your church and renounce it! Some are asking if we don't have a virtual endorsement of Islam by liberal Christianity today with a few evangelicals thrown in for good measure. Signers say, "Peaceful relations between Muslims and Christians stand as one of the central challenges of this century." If you hear one of them say this, challenge them with, "No, saving the lost while there is time is the central challenge and that won't happen by joining with Muslims during Ramadan." Author Joel Richardson, who has been on my radio program "Understanding the Times" on several occasions, asks the right question: "Is such an 'observance' actually tantamount to an endorsement of Islam?"
As this is written, a young former Muslim girl named Rifqa has fled her home in America, going to another state, fearing the Islamic practice of "honor killing." Her parents, she fears, want to kill her for becoming a Christian. Will Brian McLaren and those following him in this outrage confront Muslim leaders about this? Does McLaren share the "common good" of honor killings? Of course he doesn't, but by keeping quiet, he doesn't improve this deplorable situation. In McLaren's recent book, "Everything Must Change," he suggests that evangelicals must turn Left to be relevant and atone for past myopia. Many of us are grieved that churches have taken his advice, and the advice of other church leaders with skewed ideas or theology and have thus destroyed evangelicalism as we once knew it. But it's not just all about unity! McLaren believes that evangelical support for Israel is an obstacle to interfaith harmony. While largely unwilling to criticize radical Islam by name, he has condemned the "terrible, deadly, distorted, yet popular theologies associated with Christian Zionism that create bigotry and prejudice against Muslims." He urged Christian Zionists to bravely abandon their prejudice, just as white segregationists had to shed theirs 50 years ago.
Mark Tooley concludes appropriately by saying, "McLaren's interfaith ritual just further evinces the Left's chronic misunderstanding that all cultural and international conflict can be remedied through apologies, folk songs, Western guilt, and flamboyant sentimentality." That "old-time religion" we once loved is evaporating because guys like Brian McLaren and his Emergent buddies have convinced people that "everything must change." The one-world religion is literally on the horizon. Look over a fence and you will see it approaching.

View our memorial to 9/11 here. Other categories on my Web site that will be helpful in light of what I've written above include "Islam & the Arabs," "Spiritual Deception" and "Prophecy Watch."

RADIO: Note to our friends at KPDQ AM-FM -- Portland -- we will be coming to your town with our full two-hour program right after Labor Day weekend. We will air 7 to 9 AM PST on KPDQ-AM, with a rebroadcast, 5 to 7 PM Sunday. We will air the same program on KPDQ-FM Sunday from 12 Noon to 2 PM.

We headquarter out of AM980 KKMS, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Saturday, 9 to 11 AM CST with a rebroadcast Sunday 12 Noon to 2 PM. All programming is posted to our "Radio Archives" Sunday (a day earlier than before!). For podcasting, check this link. To see in what markets we air, go here.

Programming from August 29 is now posted.

Please note that we cannot reply to all e-mails although each one is read. To unsubscribe, scroll to the very bottom and click "unsubscribe."
Awaiting His return,

Jan Markell

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Olive Tree Ministries, Inc.Box 1452Maple Grove, MN 55311
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TODAY'S WORD FROM THE LORD


Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way (Psalm 139:23-24).