TODAY'S SPIRITUAL UNDERSTANDING

Flawed Justice

2015-07-28T11:10:00.000-05:00

Isaiah 59:4 (NIV)

No one calls for justice;

no one pleads a case with integrity.

They rely on empty arguments, they utter lies;

they conceive trouble and give birth to evil.

The occurrence of crime is nothing new. Mankind has been subject to unlawful acts for as long as history has been recorded. However, in recent times, the incidents of crime seem to be increasing. This condition is brought about by a number of factors, all of which can be attached to a few basic underlining circumstances. One being attitude and the other response.

The "West" as a whole and America in particular does not pursue "Justice." What it does instead is pursue a "System of Justice." The trouble with this system is that it has been corrupted to represent "Just Us", or more correctly "Just Them." Them, being an exclusive few who have taken the notion of privilege as theirs alone. In a quest for power and riches, the system has been manipulated to keep in place the values and position desired by a limited few. A position that from the outset has excluded the masses. In effect, justice has become a method of control rather than a design to foster fairness and equality. The result is the loss of well being for the sake of resource management.

How many times has a bill been stopped from passing in our legislature because one party wishes to control or stop another?

How many times has a clause been attached to a bill in an attempt to appease a special interest group and insure its passing?

Do the PAC's and lobbyist that court our elected officials operate with the overall interest of the public in mind?

These actions speak to an attitude that has more to do with desire than justice, and that desire looks more and more selfish in nature than it does as having the overall well being of the people at heart. The response generated can only be of equal and opposite nature and just as negatively inclined.

In the book, "The Hidden Agenda of the Political Mind", the authors, Jason Weeden and Robert Kurzban, point to an unspoken truth that's known but often not discussed.

"It's about people's interests. Identifying where people's interests lie is, in some cases, pretty easy. However, in other cases, while the key issue is still interests, identifying how particular policies advance people interests can be trickier."

Another sad condition that underlines and sometimes defines the motivation of self interest is greed. Money, or the desire for the material things that it can buy, has become more sought after than the preservation of human life.

Genesis 6:5 (NIV)

The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.

Isaiah 5:21 (NIV)

Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight.

One cannot impart any skill to another without first having it in their possession. The result is a systematic influx of training fueled by a government and corporate structure that promotes desperation. We are taught to feel inadequate, and encouraged to act ruthlessly. There are no easy answers. as the problem didn't occur overnight... the solution won't be an instant one.

Crime, in the legal sense is an invention of man. this is evident by the way the law is created, amended, and changed. What is and is not a crime is based on attitude and perception, something that is in a constant state of change. Many of the things that are now considered crime were at one time unchallenged practice.

The National Law Center, reports that around the country there has been a 60 percent increase in city-wide bans on camping in public, and a 119 percent increase in bans on sleeping in vehicles since 2011. “This is a trend,” says Foscarinis, (Executive Director, National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty.) “In many cities, there’s a misguided view that ‘doing something’ means passing a law that makes it a crime to be homeless. Clearly that doesn’t work.” (Read more here.)

This is a clear case of attitude and the interests of a select few compounding a problem, making it worse. Having been homeless myself I can recount a few instances where the system added negative input.

Deuteronomy 15:11 (KJV)

For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.

The media puts to use the best minds it can find to create depictions of what was and what could be, and more and more it uses violence to tell its story. Everywhere you look there is a proliferation of violence, and right in the middle of all it are our young people.

“You turn on the television, and violence is there. You go to a movie, and violence is there,” “Reality is distorted. If you live in a fictional world, then the fictional world becomes your reality.” Dr. Emanuel Tanay, retired Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Wayne State University and a forensic psychiatrist for more than 50 years.
See more at: Psychiatric Times.

When you live in a fictional world it becomes very easy to believe that it's O.K. to do things that are not right, especially in the absence of morality.

(ABC 7 Chicago Blue Line Incident)

The young man sought in this incident was turned in by his own mother. Please don't misunderstand. I make no reference to this mother, her decision, or her skills as a parent with this discussion. My statements are general and aimed toward the community as a whole. The family nucleus has been generally destroyed. There is a whole generation of children born of parents who were raised on movies, TV-sitcoms, and a thug life society. They accept gangs, drugs, and prison as the norm. It's hard to instill moral value to young people when so much negative input goes on around us everyday. Even the best of parents are fighting an uphill battle. I commend this mother. Her choice was a hard one, not made lightly. So many in our community are content with easy choices, made without much thought at all. Something that further compounds the problem.

"The trouble with the laws these days is that criminals know their rights better than their wrongs."
~ Author Unknown ~

Our current system of justice is punitive in design, using punishment and retribution as its basis. This model tends to be one sided, favoring the supposed injured party. The identified guilty party is then made the victim of the retribution and punishment. It serves the interests of one side, and usually that side is the one with position, influence, power, and or money. At the same time it does nothing to address the root causes for the infractions, and may even, to some degree, further perpetuate those causes. Many believe the criminal justice system to be ineffective, unjust, and malicious, but little, if anything is being done to reforming or re-examination the system fundamentals. That stagnate posture has, in recent times, led some to accept oppressive behavior as a normal procedure. It becomes normal for those who carry out the crime and for those who are charged with enforcement. In any case it leads to more violence.

Because of exposure in our society, which is a combination of institutional teaching, training in the home, and a lack of effective measures; some have decided to take matters into their own hands. All of us can be potentially affected, often with drastic results.

There is a flaw prevalent in our communities. We've attempted to define righteousness while voiding the inclusion of moral value.Our desires are in need of balance in order that our temptations are kept at bay. Temptation must be filtered through morality, for without it, righteousness, for us, will never exist. Unfortunately, there exists a whole generation who themselves, don't have training in morality. It is from this generation that we are forced to elect our current and future law makers and those who enforce those laws.

As of this writing there are just under 7.5 billion people on the planet (population). That translates to a lot of self-interest groups, each with differing opinions. Even if you discount the personal agendas, political parties, and other forms of ego; there would still be difficulty in getting everyone appeased, let alone to agree. As long as we insist in following our own self righteousness, we will invite an existence of struggle and difficulty.

Our Heavenly Father is the creator of all that exists. On that list of things you'll find a good and perfect version of both justice and righteousness. I think it would behoove us all to wrap our heads around Paul's advice... That we present ourselves a sacrifice pleasing unto God. After all, it echo's the words of Christ, described in Luke's Gospel... "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Jesus had one agenda of concern. He followed the "Will of God." Nothing got in His way, not even the grave. The last time I checked, He was also the only one who went from the grave straight to the throne room of Heaven. That should be reason enough to pay attention and do likewise.

Micah 6:8 (NIV)

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

and to walk humbly with your God.

Blessings

Consider the Orphan and Fatherless Children

2015-05-12T08:22:00.001-05:00

Job 29:12 (KJV)
Because I delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him.

A story made popular in the news caught my eye.

It speaks of a young man who cried in church for a family... he wanted to be adopted. There was a lot of attention, a media frenzy, as well as an out pouring of offers of adoption from individuals across the country.
Reference: Lane DeGregory, Tampa Bay Times

Now all of this is fine and dandy, but it still boils down to a lot of "Hoop-La." My questions are these...

Where was the attention or the offers before his plea became public?

Why does the media (in general) wait for angles and public appeal before jumping on the bandwagon?

Why do we generally wait on the media?

While I might be willing to give a pass to the media as an institution, I can not give a pass to the individual, especially not to those who follow Christ.

Everyday, as we go about our hustle and bustle, there are a countless number of children who languish without notice in the adoption system. For the most part we only recognize their existence on those occasions, such as this one, that spring to our attention in the news media. And in our attention - we seem quite comfortable in allowing ourselves not to notice or acknowledge their presence.

America boasts of a Christian Heritage, something that is also being debated in recent times. For the sake of argument, lets say that "We Are" a nation of Christians. If Christian, then we are failing. We've failed because we have dropped the ball on the poor, the fatherless, and those that have none to help them.

In private it's easy to say things like...

It's not my fault.
It's not my problem.
It's none of my business.
They're not my children.

All of these are excuses. They're excuses... being offered to justify an individual's lack of humanity. This is even more profoundly true of anyone, who, insists on being identified as Christian.

Why are we so afraid to practice righteousness and perform those acts of kindness that we know to be good?

Psalm 82:3 (KJV)
Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.

To be fare, I know full well that not every person is in a position to accommodate a full scale adoption, I don't expect everybody to be. However, you still can't excuse that fact that there are way too many who are able, but don't lift a finger. There are Christians who possess the resources, both financial and logistic, and in a lot of cases the mental fortitude necessary. What they lack is commitment. It is to them that I offer this debunking of the excuses mentioned earlier. Hopefully my expansion will give us all some things to consider from a spiritual perspective. Maybe a few of us can find the encouragement to go further in committing to those who are hurting... "Our Children."

Psalm 71:17-18 (KJV)
O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.
Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.

It's not my fault.

Oh really, are we really going to try an hide behind this as an excuse? It's not about finding fault, it's not a blame game. OK. so you didn't do anything to bring about the conditions or circumstances that went into this tragic outcome... that may be true. Still, I don't think it fully lets you off the hook. If we are aware of conditions and circumstances that carry the potential for harm, can we comfortably turn our heads and ignore them? While we may view this as far removed and not affecting us personally, it still affects someone. Someone is hurting and feeling pain. What happened to the simple values of compassion, a quality known to be a part of Christ's character. Should it not also be the character of all who would be "Christ Follows?"

Lamentations 3:32-33 (KJV)
But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies.
For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.

It's not my problem.

Poison in the Kool-aid is a problem. The fact that you're not drinking it might make it slightly less of a problem for you... but it's still a problem. The world we live in, our world, comes with its own set of problems. Problems that present themselves in our lifetime, that makes them "Our Problems." They are a problem for the whole of mankind, and neglecting them only passes them on to a new generation in addition to the set of problems that will come to that generation in their time. Stop for a moment and consider what we presently face. Everything from "Global Warming" to "World Hunger", these issues exist because others passed the buck in neglecting them. Issues that go unresolved only fester and become worse.

Philippians 2:14-15 (KJV)
Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

It's none of my business.

Happiness is a joint project. More so, Jesus Himself desired that our joy be full. How can we truly be happy when those around us are miserable? Everybody has needs, and among those needs are those which can not be supplied by the person in need. In addition to the need itself, they need assistance. Making life better is the business of us all, and we need to get busy making the effort. It will require cooperation because no one person is quite up to the task alone.

Luke 2:49 (KJV)
And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?

They're not my children.

Careful, I wouldn't be so quick to hold such a rigid point of view! We belong to the "Race of Man" and all children are the children of men. We may not have brought them into the world physically, but they are the only children we will experience during our lifetime... that alone gives us responsibility concerning them. They will grow up, live in our communities, become our neighbors, our co-workers, our good citizens, or the criminal element that we abhor. Whatever they become depends on how we regard them now. As Christians we have been charged with training them in the way they should go. With supplying them with the value of godly principles and the understanding of "God's Will." All of this not withstanding, children still fall under the banner of those included in the "Great Commission" carrying the potential to become a "Child of God." Do we really want to ignore a member of God's family by not including them in our own?

Mark 10:14 (KJV)
But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

In closing I encourage us all to consider that Our God is a merciful God. He takes up the cause of the neglected and forgotten, always seeking the lost. His favor is with His servants, those that take up "His Righteous Cause." I urge you to remember that as "Followers of Christ", we serve Him and not our own agendas or desires. Let us therefore be diligent, making an effort to ease the pain of those who are hurting... "Especially the Children."

For a better understanding of Christian Character and being a Disciple with the Love of God...

Read my book "The Jesus Command."

Blessings
Matt.

The Most Important Celebration

2015-04-15T22:30:00.000-05:00

Twice each year Christians celebrate dates associated with events in the life of Christ. The significance of these events remains a key foundation for Christianity. The birth of our savior would be made meaningless had not the second event occurred. It is the most important single event in all of history.

Three days, mark for all mankind, an unparalleled turning point in the universal order. The death, and resurrection of Jesus, changed the status of man and his relationship to God forever. Without this, Christ would be nothing more than another holy man. With it, we have a believable assurance toward the gift of salvation. All men can be drawn unto Him because He was lifted up. The price for sin has been paid, once and for all; death has lost its sting. No longer is it necessary to make sacrifice to atone for sin; Christ is our atonement. He has done what no mere man could ever do; being the unblemished sacrifice, perfect in every way.

To help understand the real essence of what took place, I am sharing these posts of early essays, written back when I first started my public writing. They still hold my feelings and have meaning for this celebration of Christ's Resurrection.

The Gift (April 15, 2006)

John the Baptist was in prison, and probably knew that he was going to die. He had preached the news of Jesus, that he would come to set things right, The New King. This same Jesus didn't seem to have an army. Instead He hung out with the poor, the lepers, and other publicans. Having doubts he sent his disciples to get some answers. When asked about it Jesus gave simple instructions “Go and tell him what you have seen." We must all keep in mind that often times we won't receive what we expect. However; what we do get is a hundredfold better than what we need. Jesus came into the world at the Will of the Father. His very life was an act of LOVE, and a benefit for all mankind. The death and resurrection of Christ was necessary for forgiveness. Had judgment been rendered with the first coming, all mankind would have been lost. "For all have sinned", so who could have been saved. Jesus died so that we might live. The power of His Holy blood and it alone gives us the chance at redemption. It was not the power and might, that John the Baptist sought, but the humility, in the selfless act of sacrifice. This was the unexpected gift of LOVE that was, and is the most powerful gift of all. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

As we attend service, Spend time with our families, or otherwise celebrate this time... I urge you to reflect on what a great and personal gift was given us by Jesus Christ, with this life changing event.

Reason (July 6, 2006)

Genesis 3:6-7 (NIV)
When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

Selfish... or selfless, it's a question of position. Which position a person takes is one thing, but which one they hold is another ball of wax. The word desire is introduced at the very start in the story of man. God imparted it as part of man's original package. In the beginning our desires were led by God. We followed His will and all our desire was good. The free will of man had the influence of God, who could only instill righteousness. As a result of this, man's will and the will of God, were one and the same. There was perfect fellowship. God's plan for our lives was always to give us and allow us the very best. In the beginning our choice was focused on His perfect will.

One of the tools of Satan, used in spiritual warfare is temptation. It is probably his most effective and most often used. We see above that it was the one used in the fall of man. Temptation was used to corrupt the will and desire of man. Satan only had to play with the desire that was already in place. Once the fruit had been eaten, the perfect influence of God was no longer the only voice that man would hear. The groundwork for ongoing temptation, or evil desire had been set. Satan, looking to rob us of our focus, found a way to corrupt God's plan. He added to our ability to choose. With his deception we had to contend with reason, long before we were ever ready to handle it. Every time we make a choice we try to attach reason to the choice we make. Even when it's a bad choice we want to justify it. Reason for us is really confusion. We need the wisdom of God, and the help of the Holy Spirit, in order to obtain righteousness. This is the key to salvation, to accept Christ as a savior. Without Him in our lives, to strengthen our commitment to His will... we fall back on our reason. Remember, most reasons are nothing but dressed up excuses. It's like this, when He comes, what will you stand on... His righteousness... or your reason!!

Jesus knew the power of man's desire as well as what would result if we were left to the temptations of Satan. In His example of prayer, He teaches us to ask our Father in Heaven: "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil..." Jesus knew that the evil temptations of Satan would come to influence our power of desire.

John 17:15 (NIV)
My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.

There are some very good reasons for staying in this world, for one there are others that must hear the message of Christ's salvation. Those who follow Christ and bring that message must learn to resist the evil one. This corrupt place is the best training ground for both Satan's tactics and following the direction of the Holy Spirit.

All is not lost, for God is still in control. Satan corrupted man, not God! We were redeemed and given the gift of salvation, if we only believe. To believe in Christ is to trust in his Word. After all, Jesus is the Word. When we study His word... and I do mean study, we learn to hear and recognize His voice again. As in any relationship, choice of involvement is key. You must want and desire to be there. If you make wanting a relationship with God... YOUR REASON... you have the best choice possible. This is what reconciliation to the fellowship of God through Christ Jesus is all about. Things can be restored as they were in the beginning.

John 3:16-19 (NIV)"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

It all comes down to your reasons behind the God given power of desire that you have. What will be your choice? God Himself is asking the question... think hard about your answer.

1 John 5:18 (NIV)
We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.

1 John 5:19 (NIV)
We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.

Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)
This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.

I hope and pray each and every day that you all find "GOOD REASON" to choose life. It's in the Will of God.... found in His Word. Your place in eternity should be all the "REASON" that you need.

Blessings,
Matt.

An Ending World

2015-03-16T10:05:00.001-05:00

Don't let the title of this video fool you...
The message is on point.

The world we live in is riddled with trouble.
Pick up a paper or turn on the news.
I refer you to these sources because people find them easier to relate to.
They're generally looked at more so than the Biblical source.

Anybody that has payed attention to the Bible should not be surprised at the descending state of affairs.
The Prophets, the Apostles, and even Jesus Himself; all foretold that this would be the case.

What surprises me is how we generally discount the Bible and its warnings and then chalk it up as coincidence when reality confirms its truths.

Whether you accept the scriptures or not, it has to be clear to all that things are bad...
and they don't have a real favorable conclusion that we can see.
You'd really have to be well connected and privileged to some serious perks in order to be comfortable
and fully at ease with conditions the way they are.

Anybody that has hope for a better tomorrow must concede that this present day and age has to end.

2 Peter 3:13 (KJV)
Nevertheless we, according to his promise,
look for new heavens and a new earth,
wherein dwelleth righteousness.

For a better understanding of the character of a Disciple and the Love of God...

Read my book "The Jesus Command."

Blessings
Matt.

For The Love Of God

2015-01-23T08:55:00.000-06:00

So you broke a nail.

Got cut off in traffic,

or the machine was out of soda…

There are people in the world who are living their entire life with real problems. Like wondering if today is the day they will be put to death. There are those of the Christian faith, many of which are women and children… who don't enjoy the freedoms that we have come to take for granted. A good number of them have died simply because they chose to follow Christ. Others are living the aftermath of attempts to end their life… only to wonder if the next attempt will be the last.

Please remember to pray for the persecuted around the world.

Persecuted Church from MeadowBrook Baptist on Vimeo.

Matthew 5:11 (KJV)
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

For more information on the Persecuted Church...
Visit - VOMRadio

Blessings,
Matt.

The Question of Profit...

2014-12-22T03:38:00.000-06:00

Recently I was questioned
concerning proceeds from the sale of my book…

“The Jesus Command”

The Bible says a few things which should help bring meaning to my answer...

Proverbs 3:9-10 (KJV)

Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

Deuteronomy 15:7 (KJV)

If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother:

Luke 4:18 (KJV)

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,

1 John 3:17 (KJV)

But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

I could cite more but the point should be clear.

If you've ever read any of my bios, it's no secret that I spent 20 yrs. living homeless on the street... Not only do I know what that feels like but I also know what it feels like when your pain is ignored by others. The Hands Of God Ministries works to bring comfort and hope to the downtrodden of our society. We are not a 501(c)(3). I will not take God off the table and out of our methods. We use prayer and I encourage others to follow Christ. All of which are not so favorable when it comes to government funds and recognition. As a way of financing our efforts without merely asking for handouts, I’ve written and am actively promoting this book. It is my belief that it provides a deeper understanding of compassion and kindness... The things necessary for any real love to exist. Something also that both Christian and Non-Christian would benefit from paying attention to.

The Hands Of God Ministries

Just think for a moment.

How much damage would you suffer?
Would $14.00 break your budget?

Now think about it again...
But this time reduce the amount to $4.00.

These are the prices of a soft cover and ebook respectively.

It’s not very much money. However you might have second thoughts before giving it to a person on the street. I can recall many occasion being asked if I was going to buy alcohol or drugs with what I was offered. Most of us have reservations built within our nature. There’s always a feeling of uncertainty, a sense of not knowing. Well know this. I want to buy houses and apartment buildings; the ones that are boarded up, vacant, and going to waste. I’d like to be able to put the unemployed to work fixing them up so they are no longer blight to the community. In doing this, I could provide long term living space for the homeless; not just an overnight shelter. The homeless could once again feel what its like to belong. Then they could have a chance at reclaiming their sense of dignity and self worth. Programs that ensure real transition could be made available. Good programs that improve life by helping those in need who are willing to work at making a change.

I want to give homes to the homeless.
At least the ones that are willing to work and
Make A Real Effort At Changing.
I think it would be a great encouragement for others to try.

Yeah… you heard me… GIVE!

I don't know if this will ever be the case but I do know that I’m going to make an effort to see it become a reality. I'm just wondering how many of "You" are willing to join me. At the very least we could instill hope to a people who exist in a state of hopelessness. At the same time it will send a strong message that there are still people in the world who care. Mind you, the recipients would have to be screened and given training to prepare them to handle the responsibility. But I believe in my heart that it’s better than doing nothing. It’s a simple idea with not so simple involvement. It will require a lot of effort and a lot financial backing, but nothing is too hard for the God I serve.

The Book is Written.

It’s the seed I'm planting.

Join with me.
Buy the book and help water the seed.

Share this message
Tweet it
Post on Facebook
Blog about it
Get the Word Out
Help the Ministry
by
Letting others know about the book
and
What buying a copy will do.

Together...
We Can Make It A Bestseller.
Let's do some good, and
God will get the increase.

The profits from the book, 100% of them, go directly to the ministry. I will not forget where I came from and I won't turn a blind eye to those still there. I'm not rich. I struggle every day in order to keep from returning to a life of living on the street. But as long as I have a roof and a bed while others do not, I can not afford to be driven by personal gain.

The question boils down to this.

If you could spend $14.00 to help improve the circumstances of someone less fortunate, maybe even help save their life…

WOULD YOU?

GIVEN A CHANCE
TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE...

When it comes to the compassion...
The kind found in “The Love of God”…
The love we should have for one another…
Jesus didn't make a request…

He Commanded It!

I hope this answers
The Question of Profit.

Buy It Now

Blessings
Matthew Milam II
Hands Of God Ministries

The Jesus Command

2014-09-30T04:08:00.000-05:00

My Book

(Watch Trailer)

John 13:34 (NIV)

“A new command I give you: Love one another.

As I have loved you, so you must love one another."

Local Chicago Minister, debuts a passionate work to help those still lost.

“The Jesus Command”

(Published by WestBow Press)

A journey through the scriptures on a path of life changing inspiration.

"What is a Church?"

No matter the response, one thing will be certain. You will receive quite a few different answers. The building with the cross, the Body of Christ, or the multitude of all believers everywhere. The same holds true if you replace "Church" with "Disciple." The answers will be different, with some falling void of the truth. We all have our perceptions, however well intended. The real answer, the only one that really carries any weight, and the one we all should seek an understanding for... is found in this broader question.

"How did Jesus use the term and what did He intend for us to understand about it?"

This was the starting point of our study, a study which took the words spoken by Jesus to those who could clearly be identified as His closest Disciples to try and form the answer.

The eleven men who comprised His inner circle were given a new command. That command...

"Love one another; as I have loved you...
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples..."
(John 13:34-35 NIV)

"The Jesus Command"

is both simple and impossible to carry out under our own power.
Even when we give it our all, we still fall short.
The key is in first being willing to love and then obedient to the pattern that Jesus first laid down.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things,…”

(Matt. 25)

I've heard many, who, when quoting this passage, all seem to stop at the colon, without making mention of the fact that the servant has faithfully carried out a task to the Masters delight. Just how much of our Christian walk is in line, faithfully, with the Masters liking? Are we doing all we can to live out the command of Jesus, or are we busy making excuses as we push our service further on the back burner. “The Jesus Command” is an examination of Christ’s charge to love one another as He has loved us. It takes into account His point of view and what would be expected of anyone who would be called His Disciple.

A word of caution… there may be a few hard bits to swallow.

John 6:60, 66 (KJV)

Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?

From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

The New Testament is full of instruction of how we are to regard one another. Our study and discussions took these instructions as a guide.
They form the pattern of our attempt to better understand this...

"The Jesus Command"

and the qualities necessary for Christ following.

According to John’s gospel, God Himself is love. The basic core of Discipleship must begin with a devotion toward an understanding of what godly love is, and a willing effort to display that love to others. This book and the discussions contained within, uses that premise as the viewpoint from which to look at both the scriptures, and the actions being taken in the effort to obey them. It should not be that difficult to see why His commandment… “The Jesus Command”, was to love one another as He had loved us. Nor should it be so hard to understand why in doing so, the world would know that we are His Disciples.

Get Your Copy Today

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"The Jesus Command"

uses the life of Christ and the inspiration of those closest to Him,

to unravel the meaning of Discipleship.

Beginning at the threshold of love,

the book is a serious exploration and look at what it is to love as Jesus did,

as

He loved us.

Read the book… Tell us what you think with a comment here,

or with a tweet
#TheJesusCommand
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@mattmilamii

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WestBow Press

Matthew Milam II (Matt.), in his role as minister, teaches Bible Study, and serves as a Deacon on the Pastoral Staff of South Side Gospel Church, in Chicago’s Woodlawn Community. The outreach he founded, The Hands Of God Ministries, helps those in need. The proceeds from the sale of this book have been set aside to assist the Homeless and Poor. Having lived life from both sides of the fence, he is no stranger to the need for, as well as the benefits of... loving your neighbor.

About Our Children...

2014-07-18T21:22:00.000-05:00

Habakkuk 1:2-4 (KJV)
O Lord, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save!
Why dost thou shew me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention.
Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth.

The decision to do away with a child is bad enough. What disturbs me even more is a society where people include that option in the first place. It speaks of conditions that leave people desperate and without hope. Poverty, political pressure, economic avenues that don’t exist, hunger, and general apathy… all of these become common place long before horrific acts like this began to surface. Yes, this display is shocking; but what can we really say when for far too long a blind eye has viewed as well as tolerated the little wrongs preceding this? Morality begins in the heart. It can never develop in a heart devoid of the love and saving grace of Christ. Jesus spent every day of His time on Earth attending to His Fathers business. Following Christ is not a passing occasion reserved for a few hours during Worship Service. It is a lifestyle that must be put into practice every moment of every day.

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV)

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

It’s this spiritual wickedness, when left unchecked, that subtly works its way into our societal way of life. Once there it creates indifference and an uncaring attitude. We begin to get comfortable with things that never should be allowed. Things that lead to more infestation until horrible acts like this one hit the surface. These acts shock us only because our breaking point has been pushed too far from where it should have been all along. The time to make some noise existed long ago… we just didn't cry out. We have become salt that has lost its savoir and therefor is good for nothing. Its easy to speak out against sensational acts of evil. Acts that none of us would ever contemplate to commit. All the while we remain silent to the little wrong doings happening all around us. Things that most of us must admit that we do over and over ourselves. Has our continued indulgence of these little things stifled our voice? Would speaking out put us at risk of having our own indiscretions exposed, or maybe make it necessary to give up the practices that shouldn't be a part of our character, as godly people, in the first place? We will never be light to the world around us when we allow the worlds light to cause ours to dim.

Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

There is a log in the eye of every man. We can go about the business of removing that log or continue to try and live as though it causes no discomfort. There can never be a hope for a better world when we settle for living with trash. Trash that we refuse to clean from our own houses. Saying we’re sorry is not the same thing as repentance. It takes a desire for change as well as an effort to be an example of real change for others to see. Without change, what glory does God receive? If we continue to act and do the same as the rest of the world… what makes us any different?

Philippians 2:15-16 (KJV)

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

The People of Pikeville Tennessee unanimously approved an ordinance

making saggy pants illegal.

Anyone caught with their pants "more than three inches below the top of the hips"

will be guilty of public indecency.

$25 for the first offense but not more than $50 for subsequent offenses.

(Source:106.7 WTLC Radio Station)

Change can be brought about. But like I said earlier, the time to take action is well in advance of acts that go to the extreme. Moral minded adults are produced by raising morally taught children. I can remember as a child growing up, there were some things I wouldn't even think about… let alone do. I thank God for my parents and grandparents who insisted on a standard of behavior. A standard which took as its core the principles of decency as prescribed in the Bible. Many in today's “Black Community” have no idea of morality or other wisdom's contained within the pages of this worldwide best seller… especially today's young people. A big problem that underscores this condition lies in the fact that the parents of these same young people have no Biblical foundation themselves. You can’t teach what you haven’t learned, nor can you be an example or role model to the children… your children… the ones who have grown up thinking this (saggy pants) and other insane behavior is acceptable. It just may be the case that outside intervention has become necessary in the way of regulation and fines. The real sad thing, the thing that pains my heart is in the fact that this could have been regulated in the home. Our society is real good at claiming the labels that announce to the world that they are Men and Woman. “Real Men and Women” are of the kind who are responsible enough to recognize and instill the values that our grandparents and great grandparents held so dear. When we don’t take interest and do for ourselves, we can expect others to come forward to do it for us. When they do, don’t be alarmed at the price tag that comes attached. As the old saying goes… “You Pay For Mistakes.”

Proverbs 13:22 (KJV)
A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

"Destiny is not a matter of chance,

it is a matter of choice;

it is not a thing to be waited for,

it is a thing to be achieved."

~William Jennings Bryan~

There are positives that take place within our community. These bright spots don't just happen as a matter of course. They come about when time and patience are applied. When parents, teachers, and the community at large take interest in the well-fair and the well-being of what goes into our young. Knowledge is key in the reversal of generational curses that plague our neighborhoods. Young people have to be given the tools of information, as well as the example and nurturing necessary to bring about change. Yes, it is hard work, and it does take time... but the rewards are well worth it.

Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Blessings,
Matt.

I Challenge You

2014-06-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

When I created my web pages they were started in part to encourage the reading of scripture. Bible study is something that I believe we all should be involved in. There are many who profess to be Christian and will agree that it is important to read the Bible. However there are a great many who have only read verse to verse or certain sections while missing others. In order to get the full picture and really understand how the whole story comes together, the entire work needs to be read. If I only studied addition, how could I understand math? Yet many after reading only a portion of God’s Word go on to dismiss it, or worst still, they form a complete opinion after only briefly glancing at a small section. There are many plans that assist in the undertaking of the task, those that lay it out over the course of a year or so; but many have tried these only to loose interest, or are pulled away from the time commitment. For all who have found the task to be a challenge this just might be the solution.

90 DAYS THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Starting June 1st and continuing through August, there is a standing challenge going out to everyone… everywhere.

THE BIBLE IN 90 DAYS

It has been done, not only by the creator of the challenge but others around the world. The fact is Ted Cooper Jr., a one time atheist and creator, found that his whole life changed after reading through the Bible in just 90 days. He even founded a ministry in order to help anyone complete the task. There are study guides, videos and other material which would aid individuals, groups, or whole congregational communities; available through the web site…

http://www.biblein90days.com/index.php

Even without the aids, the project is still a doable one. It requires twelve (12) pages a day but don’t focus on the amount of reading, instead think of the benefits. You can cover the whole Bible from cover to cover, and do it in 90 days. The reading could be all at once in the morning or evening or broken up and spread throughout the day. BibleGateway has even partnered in the challenge to make the reading passages available on line.

http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/index.php/today?plan=6&version=31

It will be summer soon and that means vacation season. School will take a break and most will set their minds to relaxing and having fun. Now there is nothing wrong with these activities but they speak of commitment to personal interest. I challenge you all to take an interest in the one thing that brings the life to do these things. Take an interest in the Word of God.

THEY DID IT

AND LIVES WERE CHANGED

Even if you have read the Bible, a revisit wouldn't hurt. Just think of the person who has never done so; you could share the Word together and help them receive the message this summer for the first time. Join me in this reading, invite a friend and together we can unfold the truth of God's love. If you accept let me know in the comment box.

Blessings,

Matt.

Political Authority

2013-10-22T06:28:00.000-05:00

When it comes to politics, there is a fine line that must be navigated. Most often it is overlooked if not disregarded altogether. Jesus said to "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." (Caesar representing government, Matt. 22:21) Clearly the two are separate and at odds. In politics you will have political interest which won’t always be in the interest or will of God. Where man may have his own agenda it still won’t hinder the will of God. Politicians are servants, but not all serve God knowingly or willingly. Our Father is capable and can use even the wicked.

Proverbs 16:4 (NIV) The LORD works out everything for his own ends— even the wicked for a day of disaster.

Our involvement in the political system gives us an opportunity to further the will of God through a vote wrapped in morality and His truth. It provides training and practice in righteousness. In our attention to government, we give diligence in watching for Satan’s attempt at further corruption and installment of his system. Just as the law was given to teach us what sin was, corruption is allowed so we can understand what it looks like. As new situations and things come into being, the face of sinful things and sinful people is harder to recognize.

2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (NIV) And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
Christ came into the world to destroy the works of Satan. (1 John 3:8) Christians being followers of Christ work to do the same, not with evil but with what is right and good. The directions given by Paul still stand as the best advice for bringing an end to the acts of the wicked.

Romans 12:21 (NIV) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
By standing on the side of what is good you obey the will of God and those who come to stand on the side of good along with you further glorify God. Everyone who remains in the darkness of evil is seen for what they are. What Satan intended for evil is made good through the Spirit of Righteousness. We serve an all powerful God and His power has already defeated the devil; we need only to resist him and he will flee.

For more on the subject of Authority go to: HIS_AUTHORITY

(NOTE: Originally published on 03/26/09)

Blessings,
Matt.

Thank You... "The power of Acceptance"

2009-02-28T11:48:00.008-06:00

The following is a thank you letter written to a friend for an act of kindness. He befriended a homeless person and posted a blog about it. That act and posting reminded me of a point in my life that gives an example of "The Power of Acceptance."

God's acceptance of man while still a sinner has given us the ability to not only change our own life, but also the lives of others. Accepting Christ and following His example in accepting others can do more than we ever think possible.

Homelessness

Dear Dave,
There are three things that top the list in my Ministry; Poverty, Crime, and Homelessness. One could say that in a big way they are one and the same. I am personally connected to these areas from the conditions of my life. I grew up in poverty, spent time in jail, and for years lived on the street as a homeless man. Your post, “Rose Colored Glasses”, is a timely one and I thank you for being vocal in this area of concern. As you point out, the community of homeless people is a diverse one with members that hit the full range and spectrum in makeup. Our society is mixed in its view as well as its method of addressing possible remedies. Sometimes the actions can be quite horrifying. See my article: Society Today. I have been there and can tell you first hand that the biggest thing that anyone ever did that made a real difference for me, was to acknowledge me as a human being. Of the people on the street, most have stopped viewing themselves with any dignity. We have created a class system, an US and THEM attitude. This has helped to destroy the self-esteem of these that exist as outcasts of the mainstream. The few handouts of money and food are only a Band-Aid solution, and then... only exist for the brief moment that they are given. Real solutions are needed for this real problem. There are good programs out there but they are too few in number, and greatly overwhelmed. A good start is found in the step that you have taken; to take a real concerned look, without the rose colored glasses. If anyone wishes to take that look there are vivid glimpses in my playlist --
"The Real Homeless People", on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/mattmilamii
The problem did not come about overnight and will take an effort from all of us. I for one am more than just willing.

As I said before, the thing that made the most difference to me when I was on the street was being treated as a human being. Acceptance is the single most lacking thing in most of the lives of the homeless. After a time it works away at your sense of self worth, leaving you to feel rejected and useless. Validation as a person is a big hand up. If anyone really would help them, it would be in finding ways to instill a new sense of self worth. This one thing is what creates new character or at least helps to find the character that is there hidden away. Far better than money with the ability to give life back, not just a meal.

It was in a conversation over a meal with a stranger that my life was changed. That man took the time to make me feel accepted. As I bathed in feelings of kindness, God took hold of my emotions and gave me a reason to live. That one single encounter marked a chain of events that has taken me from being homeless in the streets. It has brought me to the service of Our Father as a Minister of His Gospel, and the journey is just beginning.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV) Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Your act of kind acceptance follows this directive to the letter. It sets up a pattern that I find universal in truth. You see when I was shown kind acceptance I was given back my value. With the feeling of value came my sense of worth. God showed me the reason and purpose for that worth and just how much value it was.
Our life is found and given value in the death of Christ.
Continue to follow your heart...for it is guided by the spirit.

For an eye opening look - use this link - "The Down and Out"

Thank You Again…
Blessings,
Matt.

Questioning Scripture

2009-02-21T08:30:00.006-06:00

This was a statement in response to the post "Lessons From Christ." Where it is not a direct question, it does question scripture and the Word of God. It not only requires an answer but some thought as well... think about it.

Implied Question:

Q...

Re: Lessons from Christ
Jesus grew in wisdom etc>>

No, He dint. He is/was/will be/remains GOD. In becoming flesh, He dint "get stupid" and need to smarten up and remember that He created the Cosmos.

A...

In all of my writing, my studies, and my essays; I look to, and rely on, the word of God. This study was no different; it came directly from the scriptures itself. The Word speaks for itself; they are not my own words, but rather the inspired Word of God. These words come straight from scripture. I must at least think that they were written to stress a point.

Luke 2:52 (NIV) And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

When the scriptures say these words, I must use them as the foundation and start of any opinion that I hold to. I also ask that any response or comment made, be supported by scripture. We call ourselves believers and followers of Christ. How then can we discount His Word and take the lead instead of allowing Christ to lead us? Here are some more words from scripture which also stress an important point.

Acts 4:18-20 (NIV) Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."

Luke, for all accounts was very careful in his investigation of the life of Jesus. He spent time interviewing and speaking to those who had seen and heard with their own eyes, the events surrounding the life of our LORD.

Again I ask you, are you a believer and follower of Christ? Do you trust the Word of God to be true?

Where is your scripture to support your statements? Are you suggesting that we should take your word over the Word of God?

As believers, we are instructed to lean not on our own understanding. Our faith comes by hearing. That which we hear, must be the Word of God. This is why study of the Word is of the utmost importance.

2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

From these passages, the importance of God's Word as our foundation and guide can be easily concluded as the standard that we must follow. We start with the Word, not being ashamed of it, not trying to renounce it, and certainly not from a standpoint of not accepting it. Instead we must rightly divide it. That is to make every effort to understand it.... as it is written. Then we use that understanding to not only strengthen ourselves, but also for the strengthening of others.

Romans 1:16 (NIV) I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

For us in the Body of Christ, we hold to our belief in the Word, our faith, or we remain ignorant. If it is ignorance that still holds our attention, then I close with this reminder.... again from scripture itself.

Acts 3:17-26 (NIV) "Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.' "Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days. And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, 'Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.' When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways."

It is my hope and prayer that you are truly a believer, and that it is not your intention to cause dissension in the Body of Christ. Try to think of the harm that might be caused to those who are not as strong in the faith, when you challenge the Word without backing your position with clear, sound scripture that supports your statements. We must refrain from anything that is not wholesome and edifying for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Until next time.... Your brother in Christ,
Matt.

Whose Church

2009-02-16T14:52:00.004-06:00

A non believer questioned the existence of God. He made it clear that at times he felt that he should be more open to the idea; that it was possible that he might be wrong in his position. He said that with help from the Church, he might have better understanding and more to go on. He then asked a question that I find difficult to supply an answer for. It seems that any answer that I could give fails to provide the answer that he seeks. His question was simply “WHOSE CHURCH.” Now I know that there is only one Church, "The Body of Christ"... which I tried to explain. We were still stuck on these points, which I must say, gave me reason for pause. If only one Church, then why so many different Church groups? There is the Catholics, Lutherans, Baptist, Orthodox, etc., and the list goes on. What makes them different, and... who is right. If they are all right then why not form one group? For this person the message from the Church was a confusing one. So for him it remained at “Whose Church.”

Ephesians 4:3-6 (NIV) Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

As a Minister one of my goals is to evangelize the non believer. At some point everyone in the body has this as an undertaking. Do we as a Church body make that task more difficult by causing confusion outside the body? Is it that the many divisional Church groups affect the credibility of the Church as a whole? Again the question; "Whose Church"... does it matter, and why? Paul spoke on this very subject; have we moved so far from the advice given us? Even inside a denominational groups there seems to be rivalry and competition. Many of those who hold leadership in the Church today have worked hard to develop a following. When you look at the congregation of some of the mega Churches, you can get an idea of just how much labor went into that effort. I believe that many are sincere and have produced good fruit for God’s Kingdom. On the other hand, I also see a flaw in their methods which should be re-assessed.

1 Corinthians 1:11-13 (NIV) My brothers, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?

A Good many of the clergy have made their seats the final stop on the road to salvation. They site the number of their following as a benchmark of their effectiveness. Paul was warning of the danger of this view. At best, it is a Minister’s role to give direction as to where Christ might be found; for the individual must find Him (Christ) for himself. Ministry should function as a sign, pointing in the direction that we may seek Jesus. When the journey stops in the congregation seat; Christ is not found or followed. Matthew 7:14 should ring clear… “few there be that find it.” Personal relationship requires a meeting; to meet Christ is an event that must be a personal and individual experience. None of us can walk the road of salvation unless we follow Christ and Christ alone. The position of any Church group or any Church member, clergy included, should only be to assist in the effort to find Christ.

Blessings,

Matt.

Question From Tikno

2009-02-10T13:38:00.005-06:00

Q...

If "one" why we must different?
A question sent to me by Tikno, from the discussion in BlogCatalog (click title for link)

A...
Let’s look at your thoughts and question through Biblical reference. I hope to provide enough for you to receive clear understanding.

God has always existed before everything. It was through Him that the universe, the creation, came into existence. God is the origin of all things… directly or indirectly.

John 1:1-3 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

Revelation 22:13 (NIV) I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

Click for Purchase Info.

Religion is an invention of man, a tradition that resulted from God’s creation of man. Not directly placed by God, but allowed by him. It is man that has fractured it, placed individual definitions, and caused separations among men.

Micah 6:16 (NIV) You have observed the statutes of Omri and all the practices of Ahab's house, and you have followed their traditions. Therefore I will give you over to ruin and your people to derision; you will bear the scorn of the nations.

Matthew 15:3 (NIV) Jesus replied, "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?

Mark 7:13 (NIV) Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that."

Colossians 2:8 (NIV) See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.

Our problems, the problems of mankind, are the direct result of man himself. We as a group are proud, arrogant, and self centered. It’s the result of our sinful nature.

Deuteronomy 31:16 (NIV) And the LORD said to Moses: "You are going to rest with your fathers, and these people will soon prostitute themselves to the foreign gods of the land they are entering. They will forsake me and break the covenant I made with them.

Nehemiah 9:29 (NIV) "You warned them to return to your law, but they became arrogant and disobeyed your commands. They sinned against your ordinances, by which a man will live if he obeys them. Stubbornly they turned their backs on you, became stiff-necked and refused to listen.

Our world, the Earth, our soul, and every other part of our being are owned by God. However the control of our soul is a matter of our choice. Just as a stock company is owned by shareholders and controlled by a board of directors. With individual choice comes individualism, and differences. What happens to our soul depends on our choice and how we relate to God’s will.

Job 41:11 (NIV) Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to me.

Ezekiel 18:4 (NIV) For every living soul belongs to me, the father as well as the son—both alike belong to me. The soul who sins is the one who will die.

Matthew 6:24 (NIV) "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

Romans 1:28 (NIV) Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.

Lennon’s song was only right in part. Our imaginations and our dreams are good things; progress in the world is due to them. But to come together as one requires a power beyond man’s ability, we need the power of God. Without Him our lives exist in chaos; each man defining his own righteousness.

Matthew 19:26 (NIV) Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

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

To accept God or not is a personal choice. As a Christian Minister my choice is to accept. To function as a Minister I offer information concerning the good news. It’s information that has to be willingly received, if I am to follow the direction of Christ. My task is not to browbeat, not to force, and certainly not to ridicule others to follow me. If God gives freedom of choice who am I to do otherwise. Everyone must understand that it is their choice. But it is a choice that comes at a price, there is no free lunch. Whether you believe or not changes nothing in the fact that God is. I can't change your decision no more than I can change the outcome of it. God is personal and your choice concerning Him is also personal… between you, the individual and Him, your God.

Isaiah 45:23 (NIV) By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear.

Revelation 3:15-17 (NIV) I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.

Revelation 22:10-14 (NIV) Then he told me, "Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, because the time is near. Let him who does wrong continue to do wrong; let him who is vile continue to be vile; let him who does right continue to do right; and let him who is holy continue to be holy." "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. "Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.

Just as the unseen quark is a fact of physics, God who is also unseen, is a fact of each and every beings existence; you can believe it or not. What you believe will weigh in on the price you must pay. Our existence started with God and it will surely end with Him.

Psalm 84:10 (NIV) Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

Romans 14:5 (NIV) One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.

I pray that this has helped to bring some clarity to your understanding and that you will continue to seek answers to the question of God.

Blessings,
Matt.

The Truth of Jesus

2009-02-07T06:53:00.011-06:00

John 8:32 (New International Version)Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

To know the truth you must know Jesus. Only then can He set you free. We spend so much time defining the truth, searching for what it is, and how we can know for sure. It's easy to loose focus on Christ by not connecting Him with the truth. When we place our focus on Christ, our effort on the relationship that we make with Him; we also build our understanding of what the truth really is. To know Christ is to know the freedom of the truth that comes with Him. This world, this sinful world with all of it's pleasures and lusts... is a lie. A trap that keeps us from the truth. With every desire to possess the offerings of this world, we are confronted with the price that the world must be paid. It becomes an ever increasing bill that consumes us. We find ourselves lost in the sea of material pursuit, for increasing gain. What we see as a gain is only our loss. In the end we loose not only the material, but also our place in the eternal kingdom.

Mark 8:36 (New International Version)What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?

Knowing Christ through relationship, gives us the ability to understand this world for what it is. We know the truth simply because we know Christ. We are set free by the price he paid for all of us. That is the truth of salvation; a gift of which the world has no comparisons.

Blessings,
Matt.

Society Today

2009-02-02T19:45:00.006-06:00

Homeless Killing --- Watch this news clip. This news story from CNN paints a vivid picture of what our society has become.

Having lived for years as a homeless man, it doesn’t shock me. Oh it disturbs me deeply but no it has no shocking effect. I have been that person that people move away from. I was the one that nobody wants to be bothered with. The person that they might catch something from or they wish just wasn’t there around them. After all, they are productive members of society, working to improve their life. I should have been doing the same, not allowing myself to be on the street. Something must have been wrong with me.

This man was left to die as people on the street didn't seem to care. Many saw him in need of help; yet nobody bothered. As it has often been said, “it happens all the time.” Now there may be something wrong with those who are homeless, but does that give reason to remove them from being counted as human. If it does then something is very wrong with the average productive member of everyday society. Something is certainly wrong in the way we’ve let this occurrence become common place among us.

Jesus was challenged by a person skilled in the law. He, the challenger, thought he could justify himself with what seemed a trick question. Today’s society like this challenger of Jesus tries to justify these acts of indifference with words that remove them from responsibility. They say; “it’s O.K, everybody does it, or it happens all the time.” Like all responsibility, when not faced there is a price to pay; consequences for our actions or inaction. The man asked Jesus the requirements for salvation. He knew he was to love God and love his neighbor, but his trick question was in asking just who his neighbor was. Thinking to himself that Jesus was going to make distinctions or set limits on who could be included as a neighbor. Our society is showing itself to be doing the same exact thing. We have gone backward to repeat what history should have already pointed out as a gross error. Our neighbors are not limited to the narrow few that we surround ourselves with in polite settings. We have no basis for making distinctions to include or exclude members of our society. The world being our home makes the people in it… our neighbors. This would include the homeless, the man in the news being one of them. The parable Jesus told about the “Good Samaritan” has many similarities to this news video from. Just as there were consequences behind the story, there are consequences today in our lack of action.

Luke 10:36-37 (NIV) "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?" The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."

If we are to obtain salvation, our place in eternal life; then society, and all of us as members of it; must learn to follow the directions of Christ… “Go and Do Likewise.”

With the Blessing of God,
Matt.

The Relationship of Grace

2009-01-28T14:56:00.004-06:00

Exodus 33:19 (NIV)
And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

Here we find the elements of God’s grace… Goodness, Mercy, and Compassion; all in the name of the LORD because His Will, wishes it to be.

Another way of looking at "His Grace" is to see it as a part of “His Will”, as it concerns us. It’s the part of it that is unconditional. His Grace carries no strings. There is nothing demanded or commanded of us for it. We don’t have to promise to do anything, and there is no passing of judgment associated. When you look around, there is quite a bit of free stuff that God has provided for everyone. None of it is denied based on our actions, good or bad. That in itself shows how "His Grace" is at work to help us all.

Isaiah 45:18 (NIV) For this is what the LORD says—
he who created the heavens,
he is God;
he who fashioned and made the earth,
he founded it;
he did not create it to be empty,
but formed it to be inhabited—
he says:
"I am the LORD, and there is no other.

This Earth and all the material within it, was fashioned for the people who would inhabit it… That’s us. His action is extended because of His will for relationship, with us. His Grace forms the foundation of the relationship that God would intend to share. By design, we are instilled with favor in order that we might display the wondrous glory of our creator. It’s His way of giving us the incentive to turn towards “His Righteousness”; an act of choice that hallmarks His greatness. An act of which, on our part, also makes certain the bond of that relationship; formed between ourselves and God. By choosing Him, we acknowledge that Greatness, and we display for others; That Glory.

Blessings,
Matt.

Lessons From Christ

2009-01-22T11:41:00.006-06:00

Luke 2:52 (NIV)
And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Jesus spent His time among us teaching. He placed much of His effort in trying to expand our understanding of what really should matter in our lives, as far as how we regard our Father in Heaven; as well as each other. As a follower of Christ, what was emphasize by Him, must be looked at with serious attention. This being said, I start this study with this example from Jesus….

Christ was fully God, perfect in all areas of existence. God became man, existing as a man in every aspect. As a man it was necessary for Jesus to develop, into a man from a child. This passage in Luke gives insight into just what is necessary for complete development. This was a living example set by Jesus for all of mankind. It speaks to the type of instruction that should be given a child, and also gives us adults a guideline for self-analysis. From this guide we can determine what is lacking and how to make changes for improvement.

Jesus Grew….
Not only is it necessary to develop physically in all areas, but also to make efforts to grow continually as well.
Wisdom….
This places focus on intelligence, development of the mind and its abilities for mental strength.
Stature….
In addition to the mind, the body or physical being must be maintained. Healthy living was an issue back then as it is now.
Favor….
In order to receive favor one must do what is favorable in the sight of the one whose favor is wanted. When that one is God, it becomes a question of the spirit. How closely you can get your spirit to follow the Holy Spirit, will determine the measure of obedience you have to God's righteousness.
With God and Men….
We were created to be involved in relationship, first with God, and then with each other. In the very beginning, it was God who said that man should not be alone. It has always been our position to exist as a social being. The difficulty lies in finding a peaceable path that will include both God and man. Remember the instruction from Christ; 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' (you find it... hint: see Matthew) Finding a balance is not an easy thing, but that does not release us from the obligation to make the effort.

In terms of today's world, most everyone holds some kind of understanding of the necessity of the mind and body. The focus is toward the promotion of education and health, and spans throughout every nation and culture. It might be said that in some ways it has grown at the expense of the other areas on this list. In order for man to be complete, all of these areas of life must be recognized and addressed. The neglect and inattention to the spiritual being, is still persistent today. The confusion that hindered the development of social harmony, back then, is still a problem area. In the social area of relationship, we still need the umbrella of clarity.

The teachings given us by Christ Jesus are of great value. His best teaching is in the life that He lived... giving the example and pattern for us to follow. That life was presented to the apostles, who in turn formed and taught the early Church. All of the inspiring lessons that deal with faith, character, belief, or Spirituality, are touched on in this brief description, concerning Jesus' development. It's a great lesson... "A LESSON FROM CHRIST."

Blessings,
Matt.

"TODAY"

2009-01-21T04:10:00.008-06:00

Hebrews 3:13 (NIV)
But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

When I read this passage, I must take a moment to consider the word Today. Even now as I type, spell check wants me to use lower case. Why did the writer put so much emphasis on the today word? It was so strongly stressed that the translators used capitals to bring home the urgent need. Digging deeper I find that the urgent, implied imperative associated with the word today; has as synonyms the terms, vital, necessary, and very important. Now that’s a great deal of stress for one word alone. So I ask again, why?

When you think about it, Today is really the only time that any of us has under our control. Yesterday is history, it can’t be undone. Tomorrow is the future, yet to be achieved. That leaves us with today and today alone. The enemy, Satan is a mastermind of deceitfulness. One who paints great illusions for us to believe, and we want to believe it. We want to take credit and say it’s our own creation. It’s easy to fall into the trap of complacency, delaying our action until some future point in time. A point we assume we can arrive upon. Remember Satan is a thief, in this case playing con man to rob us of opportunity.

Everyday we encounter many that would benefit from a simple act. That is, the act of kindness known as encouragement. Those who just might cling to some form of hope, with nothing more than a simple good word. Instead we look inward, not noticing, not caring, not thinking of the others, or maybe saying… it’s not my problem. Have we developed into a class structure, an “us against them” society? Indeed we have. Like the passage says, hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. Satan has traded today’s opportunity for borrowed time. It’s time that neither he nor anybody else can really deliver. You see, time is only in God’s hands, He alone has the control. I say again, Satan is a thief, he has no time to trade… it’s a con. Legally, it’s theft by deception.

There are a few things that are for certain, one being this. God knows Satan, and Satan knows God. We, on the other hand, don’t know much of nothing. God is ever making an effort to guide us and keep us safe, because we don’t know better; while Satan is ever fooling us. That’s why we have “The Book”, and are instructed to meditate on it day and night. We may not know better, but we can learn. By the way, it seems that this day and night thing sounds familiar. I remember now, it forms a day. That’s a day from God. It’s a gift of time, an opportunity. So while we have this day, so long as it’s called “Today”, let us all encourage one another.

Psalm 118:24 (NIV)
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

You're Blessed To Be A Blessing,
Matt.

Q&A --- Bible Study

2009-01-19T16:10:00.017-06:00

Got a question about a passage of scripture?

Want something explained, examined,... or just plain need help?

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Submit your questions in the comment box. Together we will find the answers.

Luke 11:9-10 (NIV)

"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

Helping each other is what fellowship is all about... sharing !