Schemes of the devil

Believers must put on the full armor of God. Eph.6. Christians are to Stand Firm in the faith and heed to the word of God. As we persevere in the Faith, we must stand firm and not be duped or discouraged by the schemes of the devil and those who act as his agents in disguise.

But one whom you forgive anything, I forgive also; for indeed what I have forgiven if I have forgiven anything, I did it for the sakes in the presence of Christ, so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan for we are not ignorant of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:10, 11

1 Peter 5:8  Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Satan opposes everything Christ does, including those who serve Him. Christ revealed the truth in John 1:17, but Satan conceals the truth.

Those who belong to Satan replicate his ways. In John 8:44, Jesus said; Satan, “ does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

True Believers imitate Christ and are obedient to His will and His ways. Christ produces spiritual fruit in our lives…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Gal. 5: 22-23

But Satan loves the fleshly fruit of “immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outburst of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these.”

Betrayal

Judas had been with Christ for 3 years, observing his works, and listening to his words. He was aware of Christ’s perfection and power, but Judas refused to repent and believe in Christ for salvation. God therefore turned him over to Satan. Luke 22:3-5 “Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, belonging to the number of the twelve. And he went away and discussed with the chief priests and officers how he might betray Him to them. They were glad and agreed to give him money.

Judas sold out Christ

Satan made Judas his tool by filling his mind with traitorous thoughts and moving his will to act on them. This is mental possession, giving Satan control of the mind, heart, and will. “Satan entered into Judas” by no compulsion but as a welcome master who is received by a willing slave.

You know when someone belongs to the devil when their behavior is always attacking your faith in Christ and disrupting your fruitful work for the lord. The bible tells us to resist the devil.

James 4:7 Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Remembering what the scripture says in Romans 12:18,19 “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.

7 LESSONS THE CHURCH MUST LEARN FROM NAZI GERMANY

Pastor Erwin Lutzer  book: When A Nation Forgets God. Dr. Erwin Lutzer has been senior Pastor of Moody Church since 1980.

Pastor Erwin Luzer's Book is available at Amazon .
  Available at Amazon.com - http://www.amazon.com/When-Nation-Forgets-God-Lessons/dp/0802446566/ref=cm_aya_orig_subj

SEE VIDEO HERE: http://youtu.be/F2NBjHtpu5M

Erwin Lutzer reminds the reader: "That before Hitler moved to destroy the church, he decided to go make peace with it and use it for his own ends." (Chp. 1 pg.18). The author goes on to give a brief history of the church and the people in these events and gives the reasons for why they conceded to do what they did.

Erwin Lutzer gives "Seven Lessons" in this book we can learn from:

1. When God is separated from Government, Judgment follows

2. It's always the economy

3. That which is legal might also be evil

4. Propaganda can change a Nation

5. Parents - not the State - are responsible for a child's training

6. Ordinary heroes can make a difference

7. We must exalt the cross in the gathering darkness

In the final chapter titled: when a Nation forgets God - "We must exalt the cross in the gathering darkness", what the Author writes is so amazingly accurate that it is worth quoting: "Here in America we have what many believe is a new phenomenon in the history of the church. In previous eras we have seen the gospel neglected or even mocked by religious liberals and nominal Christians - that is to be expected. What is different today is that the Message of the Cross is being ignored even by those who claim to be saved by it's message. At the very time when the gospel must be proclaimed most clearly, we are hearing muffled voices even from some of the great evengelical pulpits of our land. Christian books flood our markets that have little to do with the heart of the Christian message." (pg. 136-37).

The Author explains further, "In the evangelical community psychology is substituted for theology and cheap grace has replaced what Bonhoeffer describes as "costly grace." In short we have lost our intellectual and spiritual center and replaced it with consumerism, self-help, and the quest for personal advantage. We are self-aborbed rather then God-absorbed. And we can see the results."

Stand Firm in the evil day

Stand Firm in the evil day

Eph 6:11 and 13

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil… 13). Take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, stand firm.

Christians are soldiers in a spiritual battle. The armor for the Christian is listed in Ephesians 6:10-17. There are 6 pieces of this armor. They are:

1. The belt of Truth - enables us to be prepared, ready and committed to Christ
2. The breastplate of Righteousness - protects the heart and the mind
3. The shoes of the gospel of peace - peace with God, sharing the gospel
4. The shield of Faith - protects us from the arrows of the enemy
5. The Helmet of Salvation - enable us to endure trials
6. The sword of the Spirit - The truth of God’s authoritative word.

These are the divine weapons every Christian is to put on. They are effective in the tearing down of satanic strongholds. 2 Cor. 10: 3-5   All parts of the armor are absolutely essential in the daily life of every Christian.

Spiritual warfare is not a matter of technique or performance but is of spiritual character. Our obedience to Christ comes from having our minds controlled by the truth of God’s Word. The more we stand for Christ in this world, the greater the hardship and struggles we will face.

When a person follows Christ through the narrow gate Matthew 7:13,14 he is still left in this world as he is challenged daily by those who walk the broad road -- that is the road that leads to destruction. Jesus tells us to:

Matthew 7:13,14

Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. 14). For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few that find it.

As you stand firm in the faith, endure hardship, and fight the good fight, God will give us great joy, peace, and victory as we proclaim the Gospel. God has given us everything that pertains to life and godliness, we have everything we need and lack nothing. As we continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, we will fulfill God’s calling and stand firm in the Faith.  

GAY AWAKENING FOR MAINSTREAM EVANGELICALISM GROWS CLOSER

Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.  1 Cor. 16:13.  Below are quotes from the Article.

"Evangelicalism, by embracing the postmodern liberalism spreading through the Emerging Church and using these warped and toxic teachings in their Young adult and Youth ministries, is now on the very same path as the mainline denominations who sold-out to liberalism."

Please see link for full article below:

GAY AWAKENING FOR MAINSTREAM EVANGELICALISM GROWS CLOSER

Special Report:Rick Warren’s New Health and Wellness Initiative Could Have Profound Repercussions on Many

Special Report:Rick Warren’s New Health and Wellness Initiative Could Have Profound Repercussions on Many    

2 Timothy 4:3,4

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

Dr. Amen promotes Kirtan Kriya Meditation.  Kirtan Kriya is a meditation  chant originating from Kundalini Yoga.  (see his blog links below:
http://www.amenclinics.com/blog/tag/larry-king-live/
http://www.amenclinics.com/blog/3894/i%e2%80%99m-taking-a-time-out-to-focus-and-re-energize/
http://healing.about.com/od/chanting/ht/kirtan_kriya.htm  - About.com Kirtan Kriya

Apostasy Alert on Rapture Ready Radio: December 10th Show: Right and Wrong Kingdoms

Apostasy Alert on Rapture Ready Radio: December 10th Show: Right and Wrong Kingdoms: "'And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. – Matt 24:14J..."

Lutheran’s Gay Clergy Decision Leads To Congregation Exodus - The Philadelphia Bulletin

The ELCA's decision to approve active homosexuals clergy in the 2009 -2010 voting amendments, has given way to members leaving as well as hundreds of congregations leaving the ELCA denomination. There are several news articles on the internet that have been documenting this exodus.

The article mentions three Lutheran churches in Illinois that were leaving the ELCA over "concerns that the denomination was no longer faithful to the biblical basis of the church's teachings especially when it came to the teachings of sin and salvation."  In the article 2 congregations are mentioned in which 94 percent of the congregation voted to leave.  Some of the Lutheran congregations stated in the article that they were considering affilating with the North American Lutheran Church (NALC) which was formed in response to the ELCA's homosexual clergy decision.

Noted in this article is that there are a number of conservative Lutheran denominations in the United States: Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS), American Association of Lutheran Churches, Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, and others.

The article below is from the Philadelphia Bulletin August 28, 2010.

Lutheran’s Gay Clergy Decision Leads To Congregation Exodus - The Philadelphia Bulletin

_________________________________
Other News articles:
Lutherans bolt over gay clergy - Chicago Sun-Times - Aug 28, 2010 - more than 300 congregations take votes to exit ELCA
http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/religion/2648052,CST-NWS-lutheran29.article

Lutheran divide: Roy church may join others -Aug 30, 2010
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/utes/50143594-80/church-lutheran-elca-says.html.csp

Gay Lutheran pastors to join church roster - July 26, 2010
http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/blogentries/index.html?bbPostId=BADQsbPG5Q1FCz7VHGEBJStCICz9CA5kjXdOkeCzA5AkhXHnvLa&bbParentWidgetId=B8XscaNGcc9qz4i1oSqmw36f

***

See Video here:

Please watch this video
You Tube Video: Mov.2 - Pastor Brock part 2 -- June 28, 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9jJ2tcYDh8&NR=1

Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoZ3tpetXJo&feature=related

A previous post on Stand Firm in the Faith relating to the Tornado: http://sherrydubois2007.blogspot.com/2010/05/lutherans-endorse-homosexuality-god.html

Pastor Brock discusses the Biblical reasons for concern over the recent changes, and the Bound Conscious position and what is happening with the ELCA concerning doctrine and practice and their position on paying for Abortions and their new doctrinal statement on Salvation (Universalism) from the ELCA's website.  Please see Pastor Brock's website for further information.  http://www.hopelutheran-aflc.com/   in Minneapolis, MN.

Pastor Brock gives these guidelines on finding a church:
1). Do you teach there is a heaven and a hell?
2). Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven?
3). Do you believe in the Virgin Brith of Christ?
4). What do you teach about abortion and homosexuality?
5). Do you believe in the infalibility of Scripture?

The statements read by Pastor Brock in the video (above) can be found at Albert Mohler's website:    http://www.albertmohler.com/2009/08/24/wearing-the-disguise-of-faithfulness/

(you can hear audio of Albert Mohler's program discussing this here: Just click on the MP3 arrow download :    http://www.albertmohler.com/2009/08/24/lutherans-and-homosexual-clergy-a-problem-long-in-the-making/
________________________________
________________________________

You Tube video - Leaving the ELCA - Cultureshock tv. - August 24, 2010
See Video here:   http://youtu.be/y9joMRluqyQ

Stand Firm and Stay Free in Christ

Stand Firm and Stay Free in Christ  

Galatians 4:21-5:1

Tell me, you who want to be under law, do you not listen to the law?  For it is written that Abramham had two sons, one by the bondwoman and one by the free woman. 

But the son by the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and the son by the free woman through the promise.  This is allegorically speaking, for these women are two covenants:  one proceeding from Mount Sinai bearing children who are to be slaves; she is Hagar.  Now this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children.  But the Jerusalem above is free; she is our mother. 

For it is written,

"REJOICE, BARREN WOMAN WHO DOES NOT BEAR;
BREAK FORTH AND SHOUT, YOU WHO ARE NOT IN LABOR; FOR MORE NUMEROUS ARE THE CHILDREN OF THE DESOLATE THEN OF THE ONE WHO HAS A HUSBAND."

And you brethren, like Isaac, are children of promise.  But as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, so it is now also.  

But what does the Scripture say?

"CAST OUT THIS BONDWOMAN AND HER SON, FOR THE SON OF THE BONDWOMAN SHALL NOT BE AN HEIR WITH THE SON OF THE FREE WOMAN."

So then, brethren, we are not children of a bondwoman, but of the free woman.

Gal. 5: 1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. 

 

Mysticism in the Church

Mysticism in the Church

What is Christian Mysticism?  New Age Spirituality and Contemplative prayer, and a list of other heretical practices that are not consistent with Christianity.  In 2 Tim. 4:3,4  it says; "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to there own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. 

Gary Gilley's new book: "This little church had none - A Church in search of the Truth",  in the chapter titled:  'The Emergent Church goes Ancient' ,  Gilley explains that there is a keen interest in Mysticism and also an attraction to mystics such as Meister Eckhard, Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, George Fox, William Law and Thomas Merton.  Gilley writes this on mysticism: "the whole goal of mysticism is to experience something in a super-rational way."  

If you are interested in learning more about the dangers of mysticism in the church, what it is, and it's affects on  biblical christianity this book is a good starter on mysticism in the church.

 

  

Is the Modern Church losing it's Purity?

God always has a remnant -- Those who say it doesn't matter what the majority of people say  (John 14:15  "If you love Me, you will keep my commandments.")  They will hold to God and His word, staying faithful to the One who saved us. 

Gal. 5:1 "It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery."

Are you standing firm?

SEE VIDEO HERE:  http://youtu.be/rn_AeINu22Y

The Church is defined as 'A Community of Believers'.   Eph. 4:11-12,  Heb. 13:21, Gal. 6:2,  James 5:16,  Hebrews 10:25,  1Cor. 6:19,20.  To follow the teachings of Christ, Those in the church are to help each other, to equip to do good works, bear each others burdens, pray for each other, help in time of need. Believers come together to worship and to glorify God in what they do.  To preach the Gospel, to evangelize, and to witness.

The Church is for Believers -  Acts 10:42,  John 6:44
The Church is clear in purpose.  The Church conforms to God's Word - Matt 28:18.

The church is unified because it submits to God's Word.
When a biblical church does what it's suppose to do it continually repents and confesses - 2 Cor. 13:5,  Matt 5:16,  Colossians 1:16-18

** Jesus Christ is Represented by the JAR - and it's content the water represents the purity of the church - The Believers.  (Watch the visual illustration in the video)

What Happens when sin or false teaching enters the Church?  2 Cor. 13:5,  Gal 6:1,  Psalms 51, 2 Tim 2:21

The definition of a Church is :  A Collection of Believers.

A look at the Seeker-Sensitive ,  Emerging church, and Modern-church:

1. The church wants to be more Relevant  - Eph 4:12, Heb 13:21 ,  So it can reach out to more people.

Instead of equipping it's members to witness and testify to the One who saved them, Jesus Christ, they don't do that. 

What do they do?  They change the format of their church to appeal more to unbelievers then believers. 2 Cor. 6:14

What does the Dye represent?  False teaching and...
1. having people who don't believe
2. Messages that leave out the gospel
3. Entire books are left out   (John 3:18) because they might be too offensive to unbelievers
4. We're not going to talk about Sin
5. We're not going to talk about Judgment (Heb 9:27)
6. We're not going to talk about Romans
7. Or talk about Hebrews  (2 Tim 2:15)
8. We're not going to talk about 'Sin' or peoples actions, and how it offends God, because their breaking God's law.  (Acts 17:30)

We're going to teach a Positive Message
1. Life skills
2. How to deal with stress
3. Financial success
4. The Church to be relevant
5. reach only a certain demographic (2Peter 3:9) Those who make 40,000 -80,000 a year.
6. Youth-groups - Pizza, six-flags, video games, bring in non-believers.

What is the end result?  What does the outside world see when it looks?

LOOK AT THE JAR - WHAT DO YOU SEE?

WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO THE PURITY OF THE WATER?

1. They can't see Jesus anymore

2. The world only sees the problems

3. All they see is sin, hypocrisy, drug use, divorce --- The church looks just like the world. The church is no different then the world.  (Matt 16:18)

This is not the church that God Instituted.  Eph. 2:19-22.  Sadly for the Modern church; this is what it has become.

God always has a Remnant.  Those who say it doesn't matter what the majority of people say (John 14:15)  They will hold to God and His word,  be faithful to the One who saved them. 

Gal 5:1 Talks about Standing Firm. But, first you must decide:

1. If you are going to Stand

2. Then you got to Stand Firm

3. Jesus is looking for a pure bride

Which one are you?

The Truth Nobody wants to hear!

The Truth
Someone told me today -- Nobody wants to know the truth!

See Video: http://youtu.be/gub5uaiT3fo

The Emergent Church Defined

The Emergent Church Defined

Stand Firm in the Faith is given permission to share a recent Newsletter article from MM outreach - July 2010 issue. MM Outreach is an Apologetic /Discernment Ministry that was established in 1979. Please see the end of article for resource and contact information.

2 Cor. 11:3,4  But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. For if one comes and preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted, you bear this beautifully.
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The Emergent Church Defined 
MM Outreach - News & Views July, Aug, Sept - 2010

Defining the Emergent Church is no easy task. Someone once likened it to trying to nail jello to the wall! Just when you think you have a definition, it slips away!

Why are so many churches of varying denominations going “emergent” or “emerging”? It truly is the latest fad to run rampant through the Christian world. Like many movements, it is not “new” at all, but has come to prominence, particularly in Bible Colleges.

It follows on the heels of the Purpose Driven Church, who strove to be “seeker friendly” and re-work the gospel message to fit the needs of the people. Unsuitable words like sin, judgment, hell etc. were never used, and people were made to feel that God would accept them, just as they were. Repentance for sin was not mentioned. Love covered all, and don’t forget the coffee and doughnuts as you walked in the door! After a “feel good” message, you left feeling good about yourself but devoid of the Gospel message.

Another way to reach people was ready to be tried--the Emergent Church. The “emergent” ideas were first presented by German theologian Jurgen Moltmann in the 1900’s who borrowed some concepts from the Buddhist monks and fused them with bible concepts, which he redefined. Scriptures that could not be manipulated into emergent theology were just ignored, and modern followers do the same. Not all Emergent Churches are exactly the same, as none are required to have any set guidelines, but can choose what “feels right” to them, and “anything goes”.

So, now we enter an Emergent Church. What might we find? Often the pulpit has been removed and the chairs rearranged to form a circle around a platform in the middle. The person on the platform reads a portion of scripture without comment or teaching. The audience is now invited to share what this portion of the bible means to them. All comments are received without criticism or correction. This has replaced the sermon of Christianity which is basically a topical study of the Bible, or a verse-by-verse teaching of God’s word.

As Bible readers know, the Bible draws the line between good and evil and leaves us in no doubt as to what the Creator requires of us to be in God’s Kingdom. We must acknowledge that we are sinners, repent of the sin, receive the free gift of salvation from our Savior, Jesus Christ, and then live our lives as the Bible instructs, with the help of the Holy Spirit. We believe in the atonement. We believe Jesus Christ died on the cross to save us and at death we will be resurrected to life with Him. Our Christian lives should produce the fruits of the Spirit, and we should lead others to Christ’s saving grace. If we slip into sin, we repent, seek forgiveness and live on in a Christian manner.

Well, forget the concept of “good” versus “evil” in the Emergent Church. They believe there is a third alternative, “synthesis”, with no set definition of right or wrong. Each one must decide by his or her own feelings or emotions what is right or wrong.

How does one try to get close to God in the Emergent Church?  Their beliefs reject the Bible as an authority, hell as a real destination for sinners, judgment from God is ignored, and the cross is offensive. What is left? Nothing but feelings, emotions, and pagan mystical experiences! Yet they claim to be “Christian”, but time has proven that they have a “different gospel” and a “different spirit”. (2 Cor. 11:3,4,13-15).

The Bible teaches that world conditions will get worse and worse before Christ comes in judgment. In the Emergent Church the thinking is that the world is getting better and better until all will be eventually saved! How does the world get better? EC believers think they will bring this about by their good works. They are to choose some good work that they feel good about and then do it. They are supposed to discover something about God in the process, and grow spiritually.

They use the term “theology of hope” for this idea, and speak of their efforts as “missional”. Words, especially those in the Bible are considered by the EC to be “too limited” to teach us about God so each one has to have his/her own definition, found through their meditations and experiences. The EC says that anything that makes you feel closer to God goes, like “Christian” Yoga, contemplative prayer, labyrinth walking, “going into silence” (emptying your mind) spirit world influence, and “imagining God”. Whatever!

These folks are not living in the real world when it comes to religion! Denying reality will not work any better for these professing “Christians” than it has for the New Age Movement and Eastern Mysticism. They are in rebellion against God plain and simple!

God is our Creator and we are His creation and we need to obey His guidelines set out in Scripture, and we need to accept the revelation of Himself to us as found in the pages of the bible. Our experiences, no matter how profound, do not define God. God defines Himself!

Good and evil do exist! Absolute truth does exist! Judgment from God will come! Salvation is limited to those washed in the blood of Jesus Christ, and they alone will spend eternity with Him!

We appreciate the DVD “Emergent Church Defined” done by Pastor Bob Dewaay and TV Host of SO4J, Martha Mac. At last we have an expose of this movement which has been flying under the radar and being coy about their real beliefs.

We suggest you consider ordering two copies, one for yourself, and one for your Pastor who can put it in the church library. Truly wolves have entered in among the sheep and need to be exposed!

Copyright 2010 Lorri MacGregor   All rights reserved.

Pastor Bob DeWaay's DVD - "Emergent Church Defined", can be obtained from MM Outreach.

Contact and order information: MM Outreach website: http://www.mmoutreachinc.com/ and http://www.mmoutreach.org/

Ministry Address:  Box 454 Metaline Falls, WA. 99153

The Coming persecution of Christians in America

A radio interview by Brannon Howse: May 25, 2010 - A radio discussion of the coming persecution of Christians in the west.   http://www.worldviewmatters.net/listen.php   An excellent explaination of the opposition that Christians will encounter and why and how to prepare for it.   Christians need to stand firm in the faith and realize what is happening.  Listen to the program for May 25, 2010.

1 Peter 3:14-16,17  But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed.  AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.

17) For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong.




Christian Socialism ?  - Liberation Theology -

Video has been removed and is no longer available.

Jesus Preaches the Seven Woes

the video is not available.

An Evil uses of Matt 18:15-20

The ELCA Pastor long after we left his church 3 weeks ago is now trying to use Matt. 18, because we gave our reasons publicly why we left his church. The Pastor and his wife have made several posts and comments on the Pastor’s Blog,  distorting our position and decision and falsely accusing us of slander and "sinfully" Judging him from our blog Posted here on Stand Firm in the Faith on May 2, 2010. http://sherrydubois2007.blogspot.com/2010/05/guarding-what-has-been-entrusted-to-us.html

Just for the record; we were never  members of his church. We were in the process of regular attendance and serving and attended 2 of 3 membership classes, but we were NOT members. When we learned of the 2009 "Bound Conscience" statement on sexuality resolution that was adopted by the ELCA denomination  we firmly could not agree with it!, because it does not align with the clear teachings and warnings in the Bible.    We exited this church on Sunday May 2, 2010 quitely and respectfully after the service after telling the Pastor that we were going to find another church.  He asked if we could talk later, but he never came to us, never called us, only blogged about us publicly.  Since that time the Pastor and his wife (SheJaster) has used his blog to publicly shame our decision to leave.

He is now claiming that he has taken us before the church by using his blog. At no time has this Pastor come to us as instructed in Matt. 18. But now because he has gotten word that we attended another church in town, so he is attempting to convince everyone that we should be banished from our Community .   He is now reaching beyond his own church to legalistically impose strict judgment against us in an evil manner. Check it out !

We are blocked from being able to comment on the Pastor’s post on his Blog. We are quoting him from Tues. May 18, 2010 “Communicate in a Biblical Way!

Pastormartyn.blogspot.com
Titled: Communicate in a Biblical Way!


“You know what I don't understand about people who call themselves biblical Christians? I don't like the way they judge others and I don't like the way people do not follow Matthew 18 which says:

Matthew 18:15-20

15 ‘If another member of the church* sins against you,* go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one.* 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax-collector. 18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’

Sometimes, many times, pastors come across so called biblical Christians who don't abide by this basic instruction of Christ. If you are upset with something somebody did to you or if it's something you "think" another person did to you and you don't go to that person, how can it be resolved? This un-biblical process of not communicating face to face just causes dissent, disorder, hurt feelings, factions, division, everything that is antithetical to what being a Christian is all about, and contrary to what Jesus teaches us in Matthew 18.

Christ's instructions couldn't be clearer. When a brother or sister in Christ sins against you, go to them and talk to them about it. If they won't listen, bring a witness with you. If they still won't listen tell it to the church. If they won't listen to the church then let them no longer be a part of your community. It's clear. It's succinct. It's important. They are the instructions of the One whom we serve.

If you are in this kind of situation, please please please follow Christ's instructions and communicate. Usually the "sin" against you or the other is just a simple mis-communication. Rise above your own pride and fear and truly know what it means to be a "biblical Christian" who is centered on Christ Jesus and His message of Grace, Mercy and Love. And remember the words of our Lord, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."


Posted by Joel Martyn at 10:48 AM

(Bolding added for emphasis)

Lutherans Endorse Homosexuality God Sends Tornado!

SEE VIDEO :  http://youtu.be/ALk1z5euBxI


What does the Scriptures say:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10

"Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God ? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God."

Faithful Christians must Stand Firm in the Faith. The Bible is God's word meant to instruct us.  Biblical Christians stand firm in the faith and do not compromise the sufficiency of Scripture.  The  ELCA passing of the 2009 resolution - is clearly the sign of Apostasy.

2 Tim. 3:16,17

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate,equipped for every good work.

2 Tim. 4:3

"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

Isaiah 5:20  Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; Who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!

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You can watch the ELCA vote here:

See video link: http://youtu.be/bQmTSG2ceC0

Lutheran Church Missouri Synod response to ELCA - Video

See video : http://youtu.be/mft66uHsaMg


Recent Articles:

Lutheran Church discuss theological implications of ELCA action:
April 12-13, 2010
http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16933

Critique of the Social Statement & Recommendations - lutheran forum.org
 http://www.lutheranforum.org/sexuality/critique-of-the-social-statement-recommendations/

Judge Not?

See Video Link: http://youtu.be/lAX63eOk80c

Guarding what has been entrusted to us - 1 Timothy 6:20-21

In our search to find a church locally, for several months now we have been attending and participating in church activities and serving at an ELCA. We have been prayerfully considering the issues at stake with the recent changes (within the last year) that have been enacted within the denomination. We had to make a difficult decision that binds us by our own conscious to the authority of scripture, which evidently caused sadness to the Pastor today when we told him that we had to leave, which he has made known publicly this afternoon on his Blog. If this was to shame us for our decision this morning, we would hope not.  (Guarding what has been entrusted to us - 1 Timothy 6:20,21)  He said he wanted to talk to us later which we agreed to because our comment was brief, but instead he posted on his blog without talking with us.

We, as anyone else, must Stand Firm in the Faith. This entry on the Pastor’s Blog will certainly cause some to speculate as to why we had to move on.

We had to ask hard questions before making our decision to leave: Was the bible being preached? Why was no one bringing a bible to church in the 6 months of attending? In a 3 hour theological class (2nd class in prelude to membership we took) no one brought, used, or had a bible, unfortunately not even the pastor had a bible visible or used it, this pretty much told us where the authority of scripture really ranked at this Church. We hope the links below will make it clear why we made our decision and where we stand. This experience has greatly saddened and affected us too, and would hope that someone reading this would consider how serious these concerns are.

It was easy to develop a love for the body of believers in this church and the Pastor, but again,

True biblical unity is based on the truth found in the Bible and is governed by Scripture not consensus. You can not have “true biblical unity” based on opinions, speculations, feelings or human wisdom, and these are no substitute or match for the unity that is ignited by the Holy Spirit from the authority of God’s Word by teaching it‘s principles from Scripture with the scripture. Or as it has been said: “Scripture interprets scripture.

1 Timothy 4:6 “In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of sound doctrine which you have been following.”

If you are still curious as to our decision and why we have serious concerns, please refer to the links here.

1). The Idolatrous Religion of Conscience - A Lutheran Lesson for Us All

http://www.albertmohler.com/2009/10/26/the-idolatrous-religion-of-conscience-a-lutheran-lesson-for-us-all/

2). Ecumenical Council to Address Biblical fundamentalism

http://www.albertmohler.com/2005/08/18/an-ecumenical-council-to-address-biblical-fundamentalism/

3). D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones on the Authority of Scripture - we must choose between two positions:

http://www.albertmohler.com/2005/06/19/d-martyn-lloyd-jones-on-the-authority-of-scripture-we-must-choose-between-two-positions/
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5/15/10
The Pastor and his wife (SheJaster) were angry due to our decision to find another church, and posted comments on the Pastor’s blog.   In reference to his post - He never used an iphone (visibly) during sunday services or in the theological class, but he fails to mention this in his accusation.  He is fully visable when he gives his sermons and no iphone was being used in substitution of a bible.

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Recent Articles:

Lutheran Church discuss theological implication of ELCA action:  April 12-13, 2010
http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16933

LCMS and ELCA Talk about ELCA's Decisions on Sexuality
http://stand-firm.blogspot.com/2010/05/lcms-and-elca-talk-about-elcas.html

Critique of the Social Statement & Recommendations - lutheran forum.org
http://www.lutheranforum.org/sexuality/critique-of-the-social-statement-recommendations/

America's Firm Foundation was established on Biblical Principles

Now as in times past, Stand Firm in the Faith has recommended Programming from Pilgrim Radio: http://pilgrimradio.com/ , such as Speaker's Platform, and "Reader's Choice"  a daily reading program that airs weekdays 2am,12:00pm and 9:00 pm,  for some of the Book's they've read on the air.

This month "April 2010" they are reading a book that we had read last month Titled: "The Book that made America - How the Bible Formed Our Nation".  We can not state strongly enough what important reading this book is in order to be informed as to the history of our Country and the role the Bible had in the lives of the Founding Fathers of our Country in their decision-making and in forming our political process and Freedoms and how the Bible shaped our Country, The Constitution, The Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence.  The book also documents who were the Founding Father's of our Country and their backgrounds, who formed these documents, and why all of this is important information for America's Future.  What is impressive about the book is it's documentation and inclusion of speeches and events that are not always widely known but never the less factual events in the forming of our Country's history and it's political process.

Many people these days are asking important questions about what's going on in the changes that we are seeing.  Many are seeing that we are at a critical time in our Nation's history. The author of this book sees it's vital importances that every citizen understands what our Constitution says and how God's Sovereignty is what perserves us  as the nation we are and if we forget this the consequences that may come will be as the same as other nations that did not acknowledge God.   This book clearly lays a strong foundation of America's past historical Christian roots and virtures that have made our Country great and why we must stand firm on the biblical principles which formed our Country and it's Freedoms.

Pilgrim Radio is reading "The Book that made America" and it can be heard every weekday for 1/2 hour at 2am,12:00pm -noon , and 9:00pm  - Pacific Time.  You can hear it on the internet at http://pilgrimradio.com/  .  Please visit their website.

** (I want to extend my apology to Pilgrim Radio and their listeners for any confusion for the time given for "Reader's Choice" when posting this entry. The time-slot we posted here was incorrect, but has since then been changed.)