Jump to content

Leaderboard

Popular Content

Showing content with the highest reputation since 02/11/2011 in all areas

  1. Over the last few months before Jim had his surgery - in my grief now - I had forgotten. In Jim's prayers, that I heard, he often dwelled on his home in heaven and distinguished it from his home in heaven and his home on earth. To most people that may not mean anything, but for me, it told a lot. He had never really done that before a few months ago. Now that he is not waking up, the doctors have their reasons why. His brain is severely damaged by the stroke. If he did wake up it is likely that he wouldn’t be able to see, speak, feed himself, or breathe on his own. He has also developed an infection (Pneumonia) in his lungs. But I think there is an added reason - he doesn't want to wake up. He really has nothing to look forward to, he hated what the neuropathy was doing to him and it was getting worse, to the point that at some point he wouldn't have been able to do anything but sit in his chair and wait to die, which he felt he was already doing. I really think he was ready to go months ago, long before he knew about his heart problem. Even though he did have great hope that he would recover from his surgery and feel better and have more energy. I also feel he was torn between the desire to die and leaving me a widow. But there is also that he felt trapped in his body. So I have decided that I will let him die peacefully. I think he has a few more days before he has to have the stomach feeding portal installed. I have told them not to. It will also be at that time I will have them remove his ventilator so he can pass peacefully. There really is no hope he will recover, but even if there was - recover to what? To continue his neuropathy deterioration? I really think he doesn't want that, and is one reason he hasn't woke up. I am sorry, so very sorry. Not just for me, but for him, his family, and his close friends. I don't know the exact date they will do this, but it will happen soon. I will go and see him one last time tomorrow and say my goodbyes. I cannot bear to watch him die. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. But he would not want to live like this, and I am abiding by his wishes. Please know, my heart goes out to you. Linda, his wife
    12 points
  2. Here is the latest: "As I said last night I spoke with the Neurologist yesterday. The neurologist had another CT scan performed yesterday afternoon. The results show that he experienced several strokes to various areas of his brain during surgery. What the Doctor does not know yet is the extent of damage done to those areas of the brain. The neurologist cannot evaluate the brain damage until Jimmy wakes up from the coma. If he does wake up, then the Doctor will have a better idea of the extent of brain damage. I wish I could give more concrete answers but we just don’t know yet. The Doctors said his condition is very serious but we can only wait to see if he wakes up to know more. I won't be sending any more updates until we actually know more than this. Linda"
    9 points
  3. DaveW

    My daughter to PNG

    My daughter, Hannah-Rose is a registered nurse. She has left Perth this afternoon to fly to Brisbane and then on to Port Morseby, Papua New Guinea. She will be serving at Kunai health clinic. The clinic is an independent baptist missionary run clinic with the purpose of reaching the people of the Kotidanga region and beyond for the Lord. I would appreciate prayer for her travel and for her service for the Lord into the future. Regards, DaveW
    9 points
  4. Alan

    Peace in the Midst of the Storm

    Matthew 14:22-33 “Peace in the Midst of the Storm.” By Alan “And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.” Matthew 14:22-33 The account of the Lord Jesus walking on the water is a wonderful story that shows us His lordship over His creation and loving care for His saints. Before we begin this devotion, let me bring a reminder that the disciples in the ship were Jews and were familiar with the account of how the LORD God takes care of the saints; even on the dangers in the sea. “They that do down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; these see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.” Psalm 107:23 and 24 God, in either Testament, God is Lord over all of the creation. The Bible is a wonderful book. The Bible is God’s Word and it gives us an understanding of God and His will for our lives. It also gives us peace in our hearts as we go through the storms of life and the hope of eternal life in heaven. “... tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.” In this world, all of us go through storms of life. We have physical, mental, and spiritual problems. We have fears in our hearts, doubts, wants, needs, and stress, in our family and work. Everybody has storms in their lives. The Lord Jesus wants us to have peace in the midst of our storms: whether those storms are physical, mental, spiritual, societal, governmental, family, or work related. What a wonderful story! This story tells of the power and majesty of the Lord Jesus. Jesus is truly Lord. “... walking on the water.” During the time of their deepest anxiety of life, the disciples saw the Lord Jesus walking on the water. Also, there was a very big storm on the water at the same time. How was it possible for Jesus to walk on the water? Can you walk on the water? Do you know of anybody else that can walk on the water in front of other people? Did Confucius walk on the water? Did Buddha walk on the water? Job knew, as the Jews knew, and as those who know their Bible know, only God in heaven, the LORD, can walk on the water. Job 9:8 says, “Which alone spreadeth out the heavens, and treadeth upon the waves of the sea.” Jesus could walk on the water because He is Lord. Colossians 1: 15-17 says, “Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in the earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” Because Jesus created all things, He is Lord and has the power to walk on the water! God, who lives in heaven, is invisible to all of us. The Lord Jesus is His only son. Jesus is the image of God. The Lord Jesus created this world and all that is in it. He created all of the things that you see and all of the spiritual things that you cannot see. The Lord Jesus created: the oceans, land, mountains, islands, our body, the thrones, or the governments, of this world, the angels, the Devil, or Satan, heaven and hell. All of the creation of the Lord is used for His purposes. “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” The Lord Jesus can give us peace in our heart in the midst of the storms of life. The disciples were on the boat and the storm was raging. They thought that maybe they would die. Some of the disciples were fishermen. The disciples knew the dangers of the sea. Also, they never had seen a person walking on the water. The disciples had never seen a person walk on the water, so they thought that a ghost was coming to them. At the beginning, they did not understand what was happening. They were very scared. Then they cried out with fear. Like the disciples, so often in our lives we are fearful of the dangers in our paths and do not have a full understanding of the spiritual happenings around us. The Lord Jesus said, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” The Lord Jesus does not want the Christian to have fear in their hearts. The Lord Jesus also said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave unto you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” The Lord Jesus gives the Christian peace in our hearts. The Christian has peace in their hearts that only Jesus can give. Jesus gives the Christian peace in the midst of the storms of live. When a Christian dies, he knows that he will ascend into heaven and live with Jesus. “Come.” When Jesus spoke these words the apostle Peter realized that it was the Lord walking on the water. Peter had faith in the Lord. So, Peter asked the Lord if he could come on the water and walk to Him. Jesus said one word, “Come.” We need to come to Jesus in the storms of life! Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Peter is a good example. In verse 29 we see how Peter walked on the water to go to Jesus. How did Peter walk on the water? Because of his faith the Apostle Peter was able to walk on the water. Faith is an amazing thing. We all need to have faith. “Lord, save me.” But, now we see that Peter took his eyes, his thoughts, off of the Lord Jesus, and looked at the wind and waves. Then he became afraid. Then he started to sink .That caused Peter to cry out, “Lord, save me.” “Lord, save me.” All of us need to pay careful heed to these words of Peter. If you are not a Christian then you need to cry out to Jesus and say, “Lord, save me I do not want to go to hell. I do not want to go to hell forever. Lord save me! I am a sinner and deserve to die and go to hell. But, Lord, in your mercy save my soul.” If you are a Christian, and you have taken your eyes and thoughts off of the Lord Jesus and onto the world and all of its problems then you need to turn your eyes on Jesus and say, “Lord save me.” In the hymn book there is a song called, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.” The stanza says, “Turn your eyes on Jesus, look full into His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.” Jesus is Lord and He is truly wonderful. We need to take our eyes, our thoughts, our actions, off of the things of this life and trust in the Lord Jesus for all of our needs and give Him our fears. “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” In verse 31 we read these wonderful words, “And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? Faith pleases God but doubting does not. When we doubt, and criticize the Bible, and the things of God, then we displease God. The Bible, and all of the doctrines, stories, miracles, prophesies written therein, are to be believed and not doubted. With very little argument, the greatest defender of the faith in the Chinese world was Wang Ming-Dao, July 25, 1900-July 28, 1991. Wang Ming-Dao is one of the best examples of the work of the scriptures in the heart of a Chinese convert. After salvation, as he was teaching in a Presbyterian mission school, because of his biblical stand to be immersed, he was dismissed in 1920. Later on, in the beginning days of the Charismatic Movement in China, he openly taught against the Charismatic movement and denominational hierarchies. Wang Ming-Dao became known for his indigenous church work. From 1955-1980 he was imprisoned, twice, by the Communist government. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wang_Ming-Dao Through all of his intense verbal, spiritual, cultural, family relations, religious, denominational jealousy, and governmental persecution, Wang Ming-Dao maintained a rock-solid faith in Christ, doctrinal integrity, and inward peace through his personal storms in life. Wang Ming-Dao said, 王明道「魔鬼敗壞信徒的計策很多,但最毒的莫過於使他們對神的話發生疑惑,因為這是根本的方法。」“Satan has many scheme’s to destroy the believer, but the greatest poisonous, and the original, method is nothing more than to cause them to doubt the word of God.”[1] The English translation is a free translation from the author. The Lord Jesus saw that, without divine intervention, Peter would quickly drown and lose his life. But, until Peter called out for the Lord to save him Jesus did nothing. But, when Peter called out to Him then Jesus saved him. When we call upon the Lord to save us He will do so. “I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.” Psalm 18:3 Many a person, in time of extreme distress, potential loss of life, war, accidents, and other physical dangers or spiritual dangers, have called upon the Lord for not only the eternal salvation of their soul, but for physical deliverance. “Of a truth thou art the Son of God.” The Lord Jesus took Peter’s hand then both Jesus and Peter walked back to the boat walking on the water. Peter embraced Jesus! When they got back to the boat the wind ceased. When Jesus and Peter arrived back to the boat the other disciples realized the wonderful thing that Jesus did. Then the disciples worshipped Jesus. They said, “Of a truth thou art the Son of God.” As Job realized that only the Lord in heaven could walk on the waves of sea, so must we. The confession that Jesus was the Son of God was a confession that Jesus was the Lord from heaven and equal in attributes, character, power, and authority. Both the Father and the Son are eternal and worthy of worship. Psalm 2:7 and 12, “I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my son; this day have I begotten thee. ... Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.” In conclusion, we need to be like Peter and the rest of the men in the boat. We need to worship the Lord Jesus. Why not be saved today? Call upon Him in prayer and say, “Lord save me.” [1] Wang Ming Tao, Treasuries of Wang Ming Tao, Volume II The Hard Road, (Touliu, Taiwan: Conservative Baptist Press, 1996), Page 256.
    9 points
  5. I want to share some changes we've made to our software to keep our community safe. It's all about reporting content that might have nudity or explicit stuff in it. Here's the deal: If you come across anything that contains nudity, you can now report it as nudity. When only one member does that, the software will automatically hide that content from public view. Our Mods will then take the necessary steps for banning . This change is all about making sure our Online Baptist family-friendly and faith-centered environment stays that way. We really appreciate your help in keeping our site clean and suitable for everyone. Thanks for being a part of Online Baptist and helping us make it a place where we can all grow in our faith. If you have any questions or concerns about this update or anything else on our platform, feel free to let me know. Thank you to everyone who reported the latest member. This new tweek will remove the content even faster now. God Bless. It's sad that we even have to have this conversation. ?
    8 points
  6. Please pray for us. Selling or giving away practically everything (amazing how much 2 frugal people accumulate in 15 years after losing almost all in a hurricane and tornado). Giving "heirlooms" and such "family possessions" to my kids / grandkids. Looking for small motorhome for temp housing while on deputation for $6000 or less. (Target date for being on the field 31Dec19). Technologically challenged couple trying to put together presentation, etc. for deputation. Cracking down on seeking proficiency in Spanish for two old codgers. We are going on a "survey / fact-finding" trip 25Dec17-12Jan18. We are going to Nicaragua (missionary) probably beginning ministry in / near Jinotega or Boaco. The Lord has already provided me with a couple of national contacts (a paralegal who is familiar with Nicaragua visas and a Nicaraguan Independent Baptist pastor) and a gringo missionary in Matagalpa. The national pastor should be able to make me aware of existing solid Baptist churches that might be in an area that most gringos wouldn't know was there because of them being the result of the ministry of a Nica church instead of a US missionary. That should help avoid an unwitting waste of time and effort in an "already covered" area. If someone knows of some churches which have an annual missions conference that might be worth my while, please let me know. I've always stayed in my little corner, minding my own business and busy with the ministry the Lord had me in. As a result, most the people and contacts I knew are in Glory now. I know no one, no one knows me (which can be a blessing or a frustration).
    8 points
  7. I would like to ask for prayer from my OB family regarding my upcoming triple heart by-pass surgery. There is no firm date for this surgery, but it will happen soon. Last week the docs tried a procedure to put in stents, but it was unsuccessful, so a triple heart by-pass is needed. Please pray with and for me.
    7 points
  8. I will state this as well: Just because God does not qualify a person for the pastoral position does not mean they are "uneducated" or incapable of doing the job. God set it up where the pastor is a "husband of one wife" (1 Tim 3:2). God distinctly made males and females different, both physically and mentally. God chose pastors to be men, and I can't give birth because that's not how God made me. There are some ministries that God called people in our church to do that I probably can do better, but God did not call me for that ministry like He did them, and I'm okay with following God. The women in our church play a role just as important as mine in our church. I will not sit back and let people disrespect women and the roles that God has given them in our New Testament church.
    7 points
  9. DaveW

    Abortion supporters

    I rarely post now but this has me incensed. And as with the few other posts I have made over the last few years, I almost certainly will not respond here. I have here following discredited the misuse of these Bible passages, and unless there is biblical evidence against my statements there is no reason for me to respond. I will not be arguing about this. Gen 2:7 (7) And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. Eze 37:7-10 (7) So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. (8) And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. (9) Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. (10) So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army. Ecc 11:5 (5) As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. Let’s look at this…… explanation…. Of this man’s opinions from an actual Biblical perspective. “Dr. Robert S. Morley (Here's my post without the examples of how Ecclesiastes 11:5 is translated in the ESV and NAB, which some might find displeasing. I've only used the KJV and have included Clarke and Benson as examples of how others interpret the KJV.)” First thing to note is that this man has been told to use KJV as it is this site’s rule to do so. He has been informed of this officially by at least one Mod, so this is a deliberate and knowing breach of forum rules, showing that he has no respect for the forum rules or the mods. “I believe early abortion is a solution for incest, rape, and other unwanted pregnancies that avoids "killing" human beings.” What you “believe” is irrelevant – what does the Bible actually say? And it is interesting that he not only uses the very rare situations of “incest, rape” but then extends it to the far more common “unwanted pregnancies”. These are his words, and as such he obviously believes in abortion for any reason. He includes the limiters of “incest, rape” to make it seem like he is reasonable, but he then removes the limits by making it “”other unwanted pregnancies” without limitation or definition. This is deceitful presentation. “The creation account of Genesis 2:7 and the reassembling of human life in Ezekiel 37:7-10 show a two stage process where the physical precedes the soul. They read as follows: "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" (Gen. 2:7 KJV).” First instance is the original special creation of the first man, Adam, not the natural birth process. This is in no way a representation of “normal” pregnancy and birth. There is no womb mentioned, there is no conception mentioned, there is no pregnancy mentioned. This is not in any way a normal natural pregnancy, and as a result of it being unique and special in every way, this passage CAN NOT be used in the way that this man is using it. It is simply not relevant to the argument. “"So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army" (Ezek. 37:7-10 KJV)” This also is in no way speaking of the natural and normal way of birth. This is a miraculous re-formation of people – if this man’s theory is correct then we also MUST accept that tehw ay a body is formed follows every aspect of this account. That means that a baby forms in this order – the bones first, then the sinews, then the flesh, and then the skin forms over it, and ONLY then the breath comes upon that child FROM THE FOUR WINDS……. Clearly this is not true, and therefore neither is his premise that the creation of a child is a two part formation. This account ahs NOTHING to do with the creation of a child in the womb. “Ecclesiastes 11:5 reads, "As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all" (KJV). Some commentries on this verse suggest the possibility of a two-phase process in human formation. For example, Clarke's commentry reads, "thou canst not tell . . . how their soul is united to their body, how it came to inform that body, or how the child was formed in the womb of its mother." The Benson Commentary of Ecclesiastes 11:5 interprets the KJV similarly. It reads, "As thou knowest not the way of the spirit — Of the soul of man, how it comes into the child in the womb; or how it is united with the body; or how, and whether it goes out of the body."” Ecc 11:5 (5) As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. Where does this in any way indicate a “Two stage human formation” – if anything it indicates that the spirit is not a part of the physical formation of a person, but it doesn’t indicate in any way that such formation is done in two separate stages. This is in my opinion a deceitful misuse of this verse as there is simply nothing in it which indicates what is represented by this man. Even Benson in his commentary does not suggest what this man is suggesting. He talks of the soul of man but not of a separate timing of it being joined into the physical form of a baby. To suggest otherwise is twisting the commentators words, let alone the Bible itself. “If the biblical accounts that show two stages of human formation are a template for how human life develops, which some commentators of Ecclesiastes 11:5 suggest possible, then ensoulment occurs some time after conception. Consequently, a human zygote would not have a soul and would not yet be a human being.” But the Biblical accounts simply DO NOT show this. The first is an event of special creation, not even a pregnancy, the second is an account of special re-formation not normal birth and again not pregnancy, and the third makes note only of the spirit as being distinct from the physical, and nothing at all of the separate formation of these things or of the timing being separate in any way. There is nothing in these verses that indicate a separate “ensoulment” (not a biblical term by the way), and absolutely nothing that indicates that some sort of “ensoulment occurs some time after conception”. This is 100% this man's theory based apparently upon his ideas that he has imposed upon certain verses that CLEARLY don't say what he is telling us they say. Since these three passages are erroneously used, and they clearly do not say what this man suggests they say, his conclusion is obviously incorrect. A human Zygote – which I will note has everything that it needs to grow into a full and complete human being, including a protective environment provided by the Lord – as far as I can see has a soul as soon as it is created. There is no verse that this man has shown that would indicate otherwise. “Furthermore, “the 1 in 2 loss of zygotes, spontaneous abortions, and the human response to them, may corroborate that a gap exists between conception and personhood” (Preface – Abortion and the Bible: Can Pro-life and Pro-choice Both Be Right?).” This last phrase comes from a man who has no idea of what he is speaking. My wife and I have suffered 5 miscarriages, and to call them spontaneous abortions, whilst medically correct, shows that he has no compassion for those who have suffered such. The loss of a child through natural sin affected means is not the same as a deliberate act of ending a life, but it is still a devastating event in the life of a couple. So this one instance of a “human response to the loss of a zygote” disproves emphatically your last paragraph. You sir are not qualified to teach the Bible, and that is obvious by your travesty of the misuse of these three passages at least, and corroborated by your absolute lack of compassion for those who have suffered in this way. And in any case, if someone has no apparent response of loss and grief, that doesn't mean there is any gap between personhood and conception. People respond differently to different events, but a different response does not change the event.
    7 points
  10. The word Christian means "Christ like". The RC church is anything but Christ like. I even hesitate to call it a church.
    7 points
  11. The liberal central government in Canada is imposing additional gun control completely opposite to the will of many of the people. You know what happened the last time they tried to make a long gun registry? Everyone simply chose not to comply. ? So they finally scrapped it, cause it wasn't working. But now they're putting it in sideways by trying to require everyone to register when they sell or purchase a firearm. Don't copy Canada. Our government are idiots. Actually , cancel that. They're not idiots. They know exactly what they're doing to create an environment where they can exert total control over the populace. Covid gave them a marvellous excuse to start really enforcing socialist laws. Do you know that, as an unvaccinated citizen, I am not allowed to board a train or airplane in Canada? That I'm not allowed to work for the federal government, and a lot of other businesses too? But they're bringing in unvaccinated Ukrainians by the planeload, and the illegal border crossing at Roxham Road is still allowing in illegals from the US. For anyone reading this who might actually support gun control, just remember two things. Bad guys don't follow the laws. And no matter how you feel about guns, you should educate yourself with the historical truths of disarmed populations (quote borrowed).
    7 points
  12. As for me, there can be no argument that teaches that the Apostles were wrong. For if anyone says or believes this, they are basically saying that the Holy Spirit that inspired the Scripture is wrong also.
    7 points
  13. Don't worry, it won't. Test kits, whether they work or no, have zero influence on any adverse outcomes. If you're sick enough to need medical help, you'll know it. Please stop the fearmongering and senseless predictions of doom.
    7 points
  14. Jim_Alaska

    10% offering

    Many times it is difficult to understand another persons situation when you don't know all the facts. Therefore it is hard to make a valid suggestion about the situation. In this case I know where totoosart lives. He lives in a country where Christianity is not only banned, but the authorities actually seek out Christians and try to detect where and when they may be meeting. If the authorities find them or their meeting place there, can be life threatening consequences, in other words they could be arrested and even put to death. So this situation can have dire consequences for him if he is not extremely careful. Just owning a Bible or trying to give out Bibles can be dangerous.
    7 points
  15. Linda, my heart is so burdened and heavy for you. I'm so glad that you have our Lord Jesus, the Spirit--our great Comforter. I'm just over on the other side of Mt. Shasta from you, and it was our church that helped to put the roofing on yours just a short while back. One of the fellas that attends your church has a brother that goes to our church. I will share with our Pastor and ask for prayer for you and for the family and friends and your church. I'm lifting you up in much prayer.
    6 points
  16. Jim_Alaska

    Closed Communion

    Closed Communion James Foley I Corinthians 11:17-34: "Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse. For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it. For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's Supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come." INTRODUCTION Historic Baptists, true Baptists, have believed in and still believe in closed communion. Baptists impose upon themselves the same restrictions that they impose on others concerning the Lord’s Supper. Baptists have always insisted that it is the Lord’s Table, not theirs; and He alone has the right to say who shall sit at His table. No amount of so called brotherly love, or ecumenical spirit, should cause us to invite to His table those who have not complied with the requirements laid down plainly in His inspired Word. With respect to Bible doctrines we must always use the scripture as our guide and practice. For Baptists, two of the most important doctrines are Baptism and The Lord’s Supper. These are the only two doctrines we recognize as Church Ordinances. The Bible is very clear in teaching how these doctrines are to be practiced and by whom. We only have two ordinances that we must never compromise or we risk our very existence, they are Baptism and The Lord’s Supper. The moment we deviate from the precise method God has prescribed we have started down the slippery slope of error. True Baptists have held fast to the original doctrine of The Lord’s Supper from the time of Christ and the Apostles. Unfortunately, in this day of what the Bible describes as the age of luke warmness, Baptists are becoming careless in regard to strictly following the pattern laid out for us in Scripture. Many of our Bible colleges are graduating otherwise sincere, Godly and dedicated pastors and teachers who have not been taught the very strict, biblical requirements that surround the Lord’s Supper. Any Bible college that neglects to teach its students the differences surrounding Closed Communion, Close Communion and Open Communion is not simply short changing its students; it is also not equipping their students to carry on sound Bible traditions. The result is men of God and churches that fall into error. And as we will see, this is serious error. Should we as Baptists ignore the restrictions made by our Lord and Master? NO! When we hold to the restrictions placed upon the Lord’s Supper by our Master, we are defending the "faith which was once delivered to the saints" Jude 3. The Lord’s Supper is rigidly restricted and I will show this in the following facts: IT IS RESTRICTED AS TO PLACE A. I Corinthians 11:18 says, "When ye come together in the church." This does not mean the church building; they had none. In other words, when the church assembles. The supper is to be observed by the church, in church capacity. Again this does not mean the church house. Ekklesia, the Greek word for church, means assembly. "When ye come together in the church," is when the church assembles. B. When we say church we mean an assembly of properly baptized believers. Acts 2:41-42: "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." The church is made up of saved people who are baptized by immersion. In the Bible, belief precedes baptism. That’s the Bible way. Acts 8:12-13, "But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done." When we say properly baptized, we mean immersed. No unbeliever should take the Lord’s supper, and no non-immersed believer should take the supper. Those who are sprinkled are not baptized and cannot receive the supper. The Greek word for baptize is baptizo, and it always means to immerse. "In every case where communion is referred to, or where it may possibly have been administered, the believers had been baptized Acts 2:42; 8:12; 8:38; 10:47; 6:14-15; 18:8; 20:7. Baptism comes before communion, just as repentance and faith precede baptism". C. The Lord’s Supper is for baptized believers in church capacity: "When ye come together in the church," again not a building, but the assembly of the properly baptized believers. D. The fact that the Lord’s Supper is a church ordinance, to be observed in church capacity, is pointed out by the fact that it is for those who have been immersed and added to the fellowship of the church. E. The Lord’s Supper is never spoken of in connection with individuals. When it is referred to, it is only referred to in reference to baptized believers in local church capacity I Cor. 11:20-26). I want to quote Dr. W.W. Hamilton, "The individual administration of the ordinance has no Bible warrant and is a relic of Romanism. The Lord’s Supper is a church ordinance, and anything which goes beyond or comes short of this fails for want of scriptural example or command". “The practice of taking a little communion kit to hospitals, nursing homes, etc. is unscriptural and does not follow the scriptural example.” IT IS RESTRICTED TO A UNITED CHURCH A. The Bible in I Cor. 11:18 is very strong in condemning divisions around the Lord’s table. For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it. 19 For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you. 20 When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper. There were no less than four divisions in the Corinthian church. I Cor. 1:12: "Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ." Because of these divisions, it was impossible for them to scripturally eat the Lord’s Supper. Division in the local church is reason to hold off observing the Lord’s Supper. But there are also other reasons to forego taking the Lord’s Supper. If there is gross sin in the membership we do not take it. Here is scriptural evidence for this: 1Co 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us: 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. B. At this point, I want to ask these questions: Are there not doctrinal divisions among the many denominations? Is it not our doctrinal differences that cause us to be separate religious bodies? IT IS RESTRICTED BY DOCTRINE A. Those in the early church at Jerusalem who partook "continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine" Acts 2:42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. B. Those that do not hold to apostolic truth are not to partake. This means there is to be discipline in the local body. How can you discipline those who do not belong to the local body? You can’t. The clear command of scripture is to withdraw fellowship from those who are not doctrinally sound. II Thes 3:6: "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us." Rom. 16:17: "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them." To commune together means to have the same doctrine. II Thes. 2:15: "Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle." II John 10-11: "If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds." C. Some Baptists in our day have watered down this doctrine by practicing what they call “Close Communion.” By this they mean that they believe that members of another Baptist church may take communion with us because they are of the same beliefs. Once again, this is unscriptural. The welcome to the Lord's Table should not be extended beyond the discipline of the local church. When we take the Lord’s Supper there is supposed to be no gross sin among us and no divisions among us. We have no idea of the spiritual condition of another church’s members. If there is sin or division in the case of this other church’s members, we have no way of knowing it. We cannot discipline them because they are not members of our church. This is why we practice “Closed” communion, meaning it is restricted solely to our church membership. So then, in closing I would like to reiterate the three different ideas concerning the Lord’s Supper and who is to take it. Closed Communion = Only members of a single local church. Close Communion = Members of like faith and order may partake. Open Communion = If you claim to be a Christian, or simply attending the service, you may partake. It is no small thing to attempt to change that which was implemented by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Mt. 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Many of our Baptist churches have a real need to consider the gravity of the act of observing The Lord’s Supper. It is not a light thing that is to be taken casually or without regard to the spiritual condition of ourselves or our church. 1Co. 11:27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. 30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.
    6 points
  17. I'd like to wish all of the Fathers here on OB a very blessed and happy Father's day. I was only a foster father way back when. But that was rewarding enough. Cherish your families, especially your children. They truly are a gift from God. Blessings. BT
    6 points
  18. Administration note: God gave us all a free will to believe what and who we believe. I trust everyone reading this will take the time and read what the Bible says rather than what man says. In the past man has got things wrong in the church (every denomination and non-denomination) when they listen mans opinions, but God's word never changes. Trust God's Word over man and you'll never be wrong. Beware of people that point you to more of what man says rather than God. That's what cults do. God is the one we are accountable to. Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
    6 points
  19. The c*vid plandemic caused our nursing home ministry to come to a screeching halt. However, just recently we were able to schedule a monthly service at an assisted living center - where one of our members lives. The first service is tomorrow afternoon. It won't be until late afternoon, so that means staying all day...long day, for sure. But we are so thankful we are going to be able to begin ministering in this way once again.
    6 points
  20. Some "dress to impress;" others "dress to respect." The outward appearance may be similar for both, but the heart attitude is definitely different.
    6 points
  21. Over the years, I have sat in a pew listening to "sermons" by a few famous IFB pastors that made me feel extremely uncomfortable due to inappropriate stories or sayings. In my opinion, if a sermon is preached then it should be 100% Bible based, and any stories or illustrations should only be used if they align perfectly with the sermon. Any fetishes between a husband and wife should never be spoken of from behind a pulpit, again it's my opinion, but I believe when fetishes are spoken about like this from a pulpit, during a sermon, it's blasphemous. I am now extremely careful who I listen to and whose churches I visit during furlough.
    6 points
  22. 1Timothy115

    Liberals' Bane

    We've had them in IFB and IB churches to the sides and behind the pulpit. I have no problem with showing respect for the U.S. Flag and the Baptist Flag on the platform area. For that matter, as a retired Navy man I like it. Our new pastor had them both removed. I honor the Lord first and God's under shepherd of the local church second. For me the flag represents the authority God permitted within our Declaration and U.S. Constitution. I don't come into the sanctuary and give the flag a salute, either one of them. I don't worship nor give undo honor to our nation's flag. Honor to the flag is such a little thing and has never been a part of worship toward God in any church I've attended or been a member of.
    6 points
  23. Rebecca

    "Counseling"

    A pastor can give advice, or counsel, but I believe there is a limit in what he can or should do within the confines of a pastorate. I'm not a pastor, but I do work in ministry with ladies and children. Several years ago I was teaching a ladies Bible study when a lady privately asked for counsel. I quickly learned that what she needed was a doctor, and I was not and am not qualified to counsel someone with that level of needs. Unfortunately the situation ended sadly. This taught me to always be very careful with the advice I give and to understand when I am at my limit and the person needs professional help, not spiritual help. I would hope every pastor knows their limits and to know when to advise the person seek a medical professional.
    6 points
  24. So our son is getting married on June 10. We are beyond thrilled. His wife-to-be is a godly young woman, and had I tailored a wife for him, she is what I would have made. God is so good! Wouldn't mind some prayer that things all come together for the wedding. ?
    6 points
  25. I grew up in a Christian home and went to Bible college in Northern Indiana (not Hyles ? ) and have been in the ministry for 25 years. When some folks hear my background and disagree with my beliefs or doctrine, they say things like, "You just believe that because your dad/church/college told you that". It's crazy that some folks will never believe that we do study the Bible as well and come up with our own conclusions based on our study. I disagree with some Biblical things with my father and the Bible College I attended. These issues are not anything to separate over, but I'm also not going out there to prove them wrong or my prove superior intelligence ? I have noticed a few patterns with these types of people that tell me this type of stuff and it turns me off. 1) They are extremely proud and LOUD. 2) They are very arrogant and confrontational 3) Take one or two passages of Scripture and make a doctrine out of it 4) Conversions about doctrine go off on Rabbit trails and insults 4) They can never agree to disagree Come to think of it, I've been taught a whole bunch of junk as well in my life. I'm glad that can study the Bible out myself and come to my own conclusions. Proof that we don't teach everything we've been taught is that we've been taught so much in life that we would be all over the place with our beliefs and doctrine if we believed everything we have been taught. Hello, I'm Matt, and thank you for listening to my TED Talks.
    6 points
  26. I have NO problem with the "sinner's prayer" of faith in Christ asking him for his gift of eternal forgiveness and eternal salvation. Such most certainly IS a Biblical concept and practice. On the other hand, I DO have a problem with the philosophy and practice of "easy prayerism," wherein repeating a set of prayer-words is made equal to heart-faith in Christ. Such most certainly is a corruption of Biblical concepts and practices.
    6 points
  27. Good point. If you're sick enough to need hospital attention....GO. I don't care if the home test is negative, go to the hospital if you feel that is the best care for your survival. This fearmongering is getting out of control.
    6 points
  28. Shutting down this thread because it's going nowhere good fast. And is also possibly the most ridiculous thread topic I've seen in 15 years on this board.
    6 points
  29. This thread is a perfect example of what happens when a plethora of differing "authority" exists. Chaos, confusion, and arguing. God is not the author of chaos. We stand with the KJV, and we care not if people dismissively call us KJVO or KJVP or whatever. We are not hateful about it, so if someone chooses to be hateful about our stand, well, so be it. That's on them, not us. My husband preaches only from the KJV. We recommend only the KJV. And guess what? It's completely understandable. Because the HOLY SPIRIT is the one who teaches and reveals. We don't need "scholars" to tell us what God really meant to say. We are English speakers; we use the Book we believe God preserved for English speaking people.
    6 points
  30. This is a commandment for ALL Christians and should be taught to even the babes Christ. Pastor or not, the command is for Christians. Matt 5:44, But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
    6 points
  31. Posting these types of articles as "proof" isn't really reliable information. Anyone with any theory can post a news link that will back them up. If I believe in evolution, I could post hundreds of news story's from scientists to back up my point. Also, there is zero proof that he would not have died if he approved vaccine mandates. Anyways. the main thing I see with this news article is that there is a HUGE difference in a vaccine mandate and the free will vaccine. Don't confuse the two. I am not against the vaccine one bit at all (even though it needs to be renamed because it's not a vaccine) Many in my family took it and it caused 0% argument or division. However, they/we are all against the forcible mandate on something that should be between our doctors and ourselves. We are each responsible (from God himself) for our own bodies and what we put in it. It is interesting that our government want to force this jab on people for their health, but does nothing about places like McDonalds which causes thousands of deaths from heart disease. *For the record I do not believe the government should stop people from where they eat. Just ironic how they pick what they want to control.
    6 points
  32. Just to clarify: Mary is not the mother of God. She is the mother of Jesus, of His human nature. I have heard various messages through the years about Mary's faith, about how the Lord used Mary, her as an example to us, her words "whatsoever He saith to you, do it"). She was only a virgin until after the birth of Jesus. She had at least 6 other children (four sons, and at least two daughters, because the passages say "sisters"). She certainly was a godly woman, a woman of faith. Of course, we should teach about her as much as any other Bible character - but not exalt her or focus on her more exclusively than anyone else (not saying you are trying to do that - just want to clarify, as I came from a nominal Catholic background).
    6 points
  33. It amazes me how many people think that the government is the one that gives us freedom. Freedom comes from our creator. If anyone feels that we have not lost any freedom, then they themselves are enslaved to the government.
    6 points
This leaderboard is set to New York/GMT-04:00
×
×
  • Create New...