“Dead, alive, bound, then free. If all Christians that were bound [from sin] would get freed of their graves clothes, the world would sit up and listen. Don’t be an enslaved Christian. The One who has the power to raise the dead also has the power to free us from sin.”
~Alan Redpath (Referring to Lazarus being freed from his grave clothes in John 11:43)
Should Christians be thinkers? Sadly, too many have hijacked the phrase “Be still and know that I’m God” (Psalm 46:10), in hopes of teaching a method of learning about God that involves letting the mind go blank, but simply stated, Psalm 46:10 does not mean “stop thinking”.
The person selling a false bill of goods might want someone to stop thinking, but no where in the Bible does God want people to be ignorant. Instead, we are commanded to let Jesus be our new mind by yield to the Holy Spirit’s teaching through His Word so that our minds can become renewed after Him. “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:16 (Also: Romans 6:13, Colossians 3:10)
To let our personal ideas and vain philosophies dictate our understanding of God and actions towards those around us is what we are commanded to cease. Instead of believing that we should be still from thinking, we should:
People who are alive don’t stop thinking, rather they start thinking correctly. Too many professing Christian authors, musicians, and even film-makers have embraced contemplative (non-thinking) forms of prayer, i.e. breath prayers, etc. as the biblical manner in which God’s people are to “be still”. Not only will these eastern mystic practices lead to ignorant sheep, they may also open dangerous doors of deception from the enemy of our souls.
Instead of not thinking, may we start letting God’s Word plainly and clearly teach our hearts and minds in hopes of producing in us and through us the glorious light and love of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ!
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1-2
Jesus Christ did not simply call His followers to go make a difference. He said to go out to preach the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. (Matthew 28:19-20) The overshadowed drive of church organizations for social agendas of world PEACE plans, hunger drives, helping the needy, etc. only serves at best as a social band-aid, but in the end lead to eternal darkness. Mankind, and sadly much of today’s “Christianity”, has demonstrated an overwhelming desire to join together in godless unity in hopes of turning this fallen world back into the Garden of Eden.
Sadly, it is foolish arrogance that has clouded the fact that it was there in the perfect Garden that sinful pride was planted in the heart of man. Making the world a perfect place will NEVER change the condition of our sinful hearts. Jesus Christ did NOT come to “make the world right” as taught by Eugene Peterson his book The Message. “He [Jesus] came to help, to put the world right again.” John 3:17 (The Message). Jesus came to call men out of this world, redeeming lost sinners and translating them from this world’s kingdom of darkness into His marvelous Light! (1 Peter 2:9)
Dear strangers and pilgrims, may all those who have been cleansed by the precious blood of the Lamb simply choose to understand and know Jesus, grow in His knowledge and grace, and faithfully go in His power to make disciples of all nations, all for the glory of our great God and Savior!
There is a simple, consistent, yet effective formula found in the story of many of today’s (occult) toys and games for kids. The story goes something like this: creatures, spirits, monsters, etc. from another dimension or world come to this planet. Kids discover them and then discover they can play/fight against other kids, all the while learning how to utilize their creatures’ powers. Usually the battles are done in an alternate dimension where the creatures’ powers can be activated to their full potential. The winner of each fight captures not only the creature that has lost, but also its power. The more creatures you catch, the more options and power you have for later rumbles. The goal is always to win as many creatures as possible. The best case scenario would be to win every creature, thereby receiving all the power, enabling you to take over the world. In Pokemon the theme is “Gotta catch’em all!” The story line typically pits “good” kids against “bad” kids. However regardless of “good” or “bad”, both sides are practicing unbiblical practices which involve activating, utilizing, and collecting power through certain techniques usually accompanied by repeating particular word phrases (aka: enchantments). Also, many of these games and toys choose to intertwine in their story line the four basic elements of creation (nature): wind, water, fire, and earth. One other interesting part of the story is the subtle and many times, not so subtle doctrine of evolution. Most of the creatures, after winning enough battles have the potential to evolve upwards into bigger, more powerful entities, making them almost invincible. So is this just a fantasy fairy tale meant to entertain and sell products to children of this generation?
Interestingly, occultism, shamanism/sorcery, and witchcraft across the world share many of the core elements mentioned above. For example, in tribes around the world, a shaman’s job is basically to transport himself spiritually into the spirit world/alternate dimension to engage and collect as many spirit ‘gods’ as possible, securing their wisdom and power to aid his tribe. Generally speaking, shamans are warned not to capture “bad” spirits because of the trouble they will bring. Usually the theme of “good” and “bad” spirits is fundamental in a shaman’s search for power, knowledge, healing, etc. Ironically, the practices of spiritism and sorcery are not discerned to be good or bad, just the spirits one might encounter. Many times spirit guides will pretend to be under the control of the one who has captured them, but all the while they are actually taking control of the person. This idea also is revealed in some of today’s cartoons. One such show is called Bakugan. In an early episode, the main character, Dan believes he is in control of his Red Dragon creature called Drago. But later the dragon reveals to Dan that it is actually the one in control. Unfortunately, the doctrines involved in sorcery, etc. can easily be transformed into cartoon plots and story lines, with very little resistance or awareness.
Another intentional similarity is the use of creation (nature). Occultism, generally speaking, teaches that power can be accessed through the four basic elements of creation: wind, water, fire, and earth. (Many times this is known as divination.) Is it coincidental that many of the card games, such as Pokemon and YuGiOh place symbols of wind, water, fire, and earth on them to serve as categories and identification for the power they contain? Witchcraft, sorcery and the like also highly embrace evolution as a spiritual reality. Long before evolution was popularized ‘scientifically’ by Charles Lyell, Charles Darwin, Thomas Huxley, etc. it was widely accepted in occult practices around the world. After all, the logical and final step in man’s evolution will be to become gods. That is not a scientific philosophy, rather a spiritual one dating back to our original parents in the garden. (Genesis 3:5– Satan, in the form of a serpent said, “For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.”)
Perhaps it goes without saying that today there is an increased interest and activity in the occult. Whether in movies, TV shows, books, video and card games or toys, the themes of power and magic are ever-increasing in popularity. Popular sells and companies know it! Sadly, these companies are making millions, if not billions spreading more than just entertaining media. Could it be that this generation is actually learning occult techniques that were once only privy to a select few known as shamans, yogis, priests, etc.?
As Christians, may we never allow the intoxicating influences of the world to impact this next generation! Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me.” Matthew 19:14 Too often children are handed over to the latest TV shows and video games, only to be indoctrinated by pagan doctrines from polytheistic and pantheistic cultures such as Japan and China.
Sadly, these influences have always affected mankind. Historically, Manasseh was one tragic example of how influential and destructive the doctrines of devils can be. God did not call Israel to get rid of most of the other nations’ gods. He commanded them to utterly destroy them all! But instead of eradicating them, many Israelite kings embraced and popularized them. Manasseh was only 20 years old when he became king. 2 Chronicles 33 records much of his awful exploits engaging in sorcery and idol worship. In verse 6 it says, “Also he caused his sons to pass through the fire in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom; he practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft and sorcery, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke Him to anger.” (Emphasis added) What was the result of this young king’s rebellious actions? Soon the people stopped listening to the Lord altogether. And eventually Israel became even worse than the nations around them. This is a good warning for every generation, especially the one we now live in. There is a reason that occult practices, no matter what name they are give, no matter how fun and innocent they might seem, are absolutely and unequivocally forbidden by God. For a few biblical references, see: Exodus 22:18, Leviticus 19:26, Leviticus 19:31, and Deuteronomy 18:10.
Satan’s lies are seductive and solely aimed at destroying us and our relationship with our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ!
May we never allow the god of this world’s doctrines to draw us away from the amazing love and truth of the One who came to set us free!
“Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth…” Ecclesiastes 12:1
***FYI: A relatively new toy/game worth examining is called DaGeDar. (For more info go to their website story line: http://dagedar.omeletla.com/story)
What if you stopped at the ice cream shop on a hot summer day only to discover a single flavor for sale? I know I would not be too excited, and I’m sure the shop would probably go out of business within a week.
When it comes to ice cream, picking your favorite flavor it great; however when it comes to eternal matters, reality is not like a fancy ice cream shop with 67 flavors. The truth of eternity is not based on my taste or opinions. The truth is true no matter what I want it to be; no matter what I feel.
“But”, argues the skeptic, “There are all kinds of religions to choose from.” While this is true, having a variety of religions doesn’t mean that all lead to the truth of God. “But”, responds the skeptic again, “If we are to try to figure out which is true, wouldn’t it take more than a lifetime to thoroughly study every religion?”
Absolutely!
One might then sincerely wonder, “How could we possibly figure out which one is correct?”
The quickest way is to start with Bible. Not only does it claim to be God’s Word, but it also makes the bold claim that all other religions, including their writings are false. Not only does the Bible make these amazing claims, but it backs them prophetically, historically, archaeologically, and scientifically. Since the Bible is true, we can assuredly say that it is exclusively and solely God’s Word, making it the shortcut to eternal truth, bypassing all other religions.
As we all go about our days, may we never forget that God’s Word is more precious than fine gold, revealing the truth of the one and only blessed Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
“Your Word is true from the beginning.” Psalm 119:160a KJV
Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6
For many it sounds narrow-minded to say that there is only one way to Heaven. After all there are many roads that take a person into the same city, so why wouldn’t there be many roads that lead to the same Heaven? The simple answer is that men have not sinned against a city. We’ve sinned against the One and Only, True and Living God. (Romans 3:23)
This is His creation, so it only stands to reason that we should go His Way. (Interestingly, no one argues when there’s only one door to a restaurant or one way into their garage at home.) One God, One Way- through His Son, Jesus Christ! (John 14:6) Yes, narrow, but also loving. He lovingly provided a single way to help prevent us from getting lost! Jesus is truly the only way that leads to eternal life! (John 3:15-17)
Sadly, all other roads will lead to the same place…the Lake of Fire. (Matthew 7:13-14; Revelation 20:15) It’s our choice. God has already chosen to pave the perfect way by sending His Son to die for our sins, fully paying the price we deserve; raising from the grave- eternally conquering sin and death. (2 Corinthians 5:21) Now it’s up to us whether we will choose to turn to Him or continue on our own self-seeking, pride paving road. May we choose wisely, carefully keeping eternity in mind.
Jesus says, “And him that comes to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37b
“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold! the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” John 1:29
No matter what happens in this life, may we never take our gaze off the Lamb!
Great resource video, audio, and transcript for any age in many different languages. Sharing the truth of Christ from a historical perspective can be very helpful, especially in a generation that has been so indoctrinated with a very different history. http://www.christiananswers.net/godstory/creation1.html
Go to: http://www.christiananswers.net/godstory/ for video options.
Although music is only one of the many facets of worship in the Scriptures, the purpose of this blog is to briefly, yet carefully explore music’s modern role in the worship of our Creator and Savior. As those who have been born again worship at the feet of Jesus, hearts bowed low both before His Cross and His Throne, may we never check our minds at the door of His throne room! Our worship is not born from mindless melody, rhythm and beat designed to tweak our emotions. True praise ought to always emanate from the knowledge of the Holy, revealed to us by His Spirit and His Word.
Music…in and of itself. First and foremost, may we never seek to make music our source of revelation. While songs might inspire and ‘speak’ to us, ultimately Jesus Christ, revealed by His Holy Spirit through the heartfelt study of His Word is where our true motivation and love should reside and reflect. As we grow in our understanding of the true and living God, praise ought to overflow into thanksgiving to the One who died for a wretch like me. Although this generation of Christians has learned to seek fun and exciting rhythms, may we never forget to seek to understand and know our God through His Word before all else. “Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises! For God is the King of all the earth; Sing praises with understanding. God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.” Psalm 47:6-8 (Emphasis mine.)
Music…A dramatic influence. It is an understatement to say that music is a dramatic and driving force in the technological age in which we live. It most certainly has a motivating effect on the listeners of today. Are we not trained to respond to music? Its influences are virtually everywhere. Think about it…what would a movie or TV program be like without its soundtrack? How many restaurants and stores attempt to effectively use music to motivate their patrons? And now that we have entered the digital age, the possibilities for musical motivation seem almost endless. But even though our generation is the first to have such amazing technologies, we are not the first to be moved by musical melodies.
Throughout time, music has arguably remained a very powerful tool in effectively altering the state of the listener. Every generation has utilized music both for entertainment and spiritual enlightenment. Music is not simply entertainment, but a tool that can, when properly crafted, influence us greatly. With this as a basic foundational understanding may we always, always remember to enjoy and make music with biblically discerning hearts and minds.
Beware… Musical Wolves in sheep’s clothing. Not only pastors, teachers and evangelists spread false doctrines. With music as such an integral part of our society, why would the enemy avoid utilizing this popular and powerful medium? It is clear he has not. Although music has been used to influence and direct those in darkness for centuries, we are facing a time in the Body of Christ when the enemy’s lies are openly allowed entrance through musicians and their music. Below is a short excerpt giving us a glimpse of the seduction we face today.
“Michael W. Smith has most likely sent tens of thousands to the feet of mysticism proponent Brennan Manning through his endorsement of Manning. In light of Manning’s spiritual views, that is very troubling. For instance, in Manning’s book, Above All (in which Smith wrote the foreword), Manning echoes the words of Thomas Merton biographer and mystic William Shannon when Shannon (and Manning) rejected the idea that a loving God would send His son to a violent death: THAT God does not exist, they both insisted. What’s more Manning actually teaches mantra-like meditation is his book, The Signature of Jesus.
David Crowder, also at the conference, is the author of the contemplative-promoting book, Praise Habit (referring to the habits worn by Catholic nuns). In an interview with LifeTeen.com (a web site for Catholic teens), Crowder admits: “Much of the Catholic traditions and writings have been influential in my formation of faith … I’ve found much inspiration there.” These Catholic traditions referred to are those emulated by monks such as Thomas Merton and Thomas Keating.” (Emphasis mine.) See the entire article at: http://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=181
Influences… It always amazes me to read some of the musical influences stated by those in today’s Christian music scene. Why when asked about musical influences and inspirations do so many artists list bands that have been so clearly influenced by anti-Christian sources, i.e. Eastern philosophy, meditation, drugs, etc.? There is discussion within the Body of Christ over music, and I by no means hope to settle others’ debates. I do, however, desire to encourage every thinking believer to carefully check their own influences. May we always remember that those who influence us were also influenced themselves and those influences, like seeds are most likely passed on to their hearers. And many of these seeds have the potential to entangle us again with the world from which we were so graciously set free from. Galatians 5:1 says, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”
Motivations… Should music make us, or should we make music? As a Christian, this should be an easy answer. We are confident that only the Lord, not music has the power to transform (make) us. As He works within us, we cannot help but express Jesus’ love and truth that springs forth. For some, music becomes one of the means by which we allow the love for our Maker to shine forth. But just like any other saint, those who write and make music are called to carefully point others to the truth, not to the music itself. Music should not be our ultimate motivation, rather we should be motivated to point others to the One who moves and transforms His children.
The Challenge… The challenge to both the musician and those enjoying their music is the same. Music has the power to subjectively reach and move our emotions. And while God has created us as emotional creatures, we are not designed to be directed by our emotions. Unfortunately, in the sinful state of our hearts, emotions have the tendency to drift toward lifting up self, turning us away from our Maker. The challenge in making music is that we ought always desire pointing the hearer to the objective reality of God’s truth found solely in His Word- The Bible. We all need to beware of allowing music- its subjective and emotional rhythms, timbres, tones, and melodies to be more important than the primary, and objective Influence and Motivation- The Lord Himself. In this self-centered and soulish generation, it can be a difficult task to carefully draw that line between the objective nature of God’s Truth and the emotional, subjective nature of music. Praise and worship, in the musical sense should always require an active mind thinking on Him, not merely enjoying a song for music’s sake.
There are times where the unintended, or perhaps intended ideas of relativism and subjective, emotionalism might take center stage in the hearts and minds of those enraptured in certain songs. May we make extra effort as listeners and makers of music to clarify that line so that there is no confusion as we enter into worship. May we always desire to praise our King with understanding, always allowing the Lord to speak more clearly to and through us than the vain philosophies of this world. May we continue bowing low before our Lord, never allowing man’s ways to be our influences or motivations. Praise be to God that His ways are above ours, and His power greater than this world’s!
Finally… be lovers of the Truth! The answers to life are not found in music, rather in the truth of God’s Word! Truth, not emotionally charged rhythms, is how God ultimately communicates to men. Man is separated from the animal world because God has created men alone with the capacity to understand. And understanding is ultimately produced by and expressed in words, not in pictures and not in rhythms. In God’s Word, Jesus says much concerning the truth. As a lover of music, I must always remember that I am called to be a lover of the Truth more than a lover of music. This love for the Truth of God, His Word, and the reality of His creation is what should daily move me more than anything else. Consider the following verses concerning the value God places on the truth (all emphasis mine):
My prayer… It’s my prayer that I never worship music, rather worship the Lord Jesus in Spirit and in Truth. Some times this worship will involve praising God through music made by those who love Him; who love the truth. My heart’s desire is that I always consider carefully my own influences, allowing the Lord to transform me into His image, so that I may truthfully, lovingly, and even musically point others to a thoughtful understanding of Jesus Christ, and Him alone!
“And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, [even] in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.” 1 John 5:20-21
“Self rules in the heart of every person, even at times among new creatures in Christ. Satan has not missed any opportunity to entice the world into seeking his delusionary prize of godhood. The idea that man could become a god, or part of God, or that he is a god but doesn’t yet realize his divinity, may seem farfetched to some people, but that’s because they are simply unaware of how prevalent this belief is. Furthermore, from a biblical perspective, the criterion for being a god is rather simple. Everyone who has not submitted to Jesus Christ and has not been reconciled to God through faith in Christ’s finished sacrifice as payment for his sins qualifies as a god–that is, an autonomous, or self-governing, being who has elevated self over his Creator. As Dave Hunt has noted, “The basic cause of the many problems in the world today is not that man fails to recognize his godhood but rather that there are about seven billion gods on this planet, each one doing his or her own thing.” The First and Final Lie: Self Deification, The Berean Call Newsletter.
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