We have been blessed to be working with a web designer who has designed our entire current web site free of charge. I have been trying my best to do most of the updates, however, I just don't have the time anymore. Neither does the web designer who has been working with us for over 2 years at no charge to this ministry.
I wanted to make an announcement on the blog that we need help in this area. LTW does not have the funds to pay anyone, but if anyone has web site skills and could contribute some time to help us that would be much appreciated. I honestly work all of the time, and I cannot keep up with it all.
Thank you for considering this "donation" and partnership in service to the Lord with us at LTW.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Update on the Ministry to Kids in the Rio Grande Valley
From Curt and Janie, our leaders:
February 26, 2009
Hi Dwayna:
Thought we had best give you and update on what’s happening with the Rio Grande Valley Table Ministry.
We had our 6th table set-up on the church property next to the school last Thursday (February 19) and have had next-to-no response. In fact, it’s rather fascinating to watch how people intentionally avoid any eye contact (children as well as adults). We feel that it’s time to ‘move on’. Right now I’m not really discouraged, but feel there are other avenues to pursue.
Today I went and rented a booth/space for a ‘table set-up’ on Jackson St. in downtown Harlingen. This is a once-a-month (1st Saturday of every month) event called ‘Market Days’. It is an all-day event spanning a 4 block area. The street is blocked off and tables/booths are on the blacktop. All of the stores remain opened.
Our plan is to set up our little table with materials for both kids and adults, using the “Keys for Kids’ banner and the ‘Free Gift For You’ sign. One-half of the table is for kids, the other ½ is for adult apologetic materials. We have ordered several tracts for kids from CBH and we have ordered tracts from Living Waters (a few of the tracts you had sent - more geared to teens). We will set out the “Bible” coloring books/crayons. Janie’s thinking these could be a good lead-in to creation. She’s wondering about the possibility of kids rushing for a free coloring book and crayons and how to approach it. We do have plenty of the one-month CBH kids’ devotionals.
For your information, our church broke up the money they intend to give us into quarterly payments. As yet, we have not received any payment.
We have a couple from our church (bilingual) that will be coming with us on March 7. We hope to explain to them that this is not an ‘in-your-face’ type thing, nor a push to ‘grow our church’, but rather a ‘question & answer’ type thing defending the Gospel. We will hand out nothing but rather wait for questions. We sure would like to have some input from you on how to respond to people approaching the table, as well as those joining us behind the table.
One of the fears is ‘not having the right answer’ to a question that might be asked and explaining, to those asking, what our purpose is.
Relying on Him as “He Directs Our Paths”,
Curt
February 26, 2009
Hi Dwayna:
Thought we had best give you and update on what’s happening with the Rio Grande Valley Table Ministry.
We had our 6th table set-up on the church property next to the school last Thursday (February 19) and have had next-to-no response. In fact, it’s rather fascinating to watch how people intentionally avoid any eye contact (children as well as adults). We feel that it’s time to ‘move on’. Right now I’m not really discouraged, but feel there are other avenues to pursue.
Today I went and rented a booth/space for a ‘table set-up’ on Jackson St. in downtown Harlingen. This is a once-a-month (1st Saturday of every month) event called ‘Market Days’. It is an all-day event spanning a 4 block area. The street is blocked off and tables/booths are on the blacktop. All of the stores remain opened.
Our plan is to set up our little table with materials for both kids and adults, using the “Keys for Kids’ banner and the ‘Free Gift For You’ sign. One-half of the table is for kids, the other ½ is for adult apologetic materials. We have ordered several tracts for kids from CBH and we have ordered tracts from Living Waters (a few of the tracts you had sent - more geared to teens). We will set out the “Bible” coloring books/crayons. Janie’s thinking these could be a good lead-in to creation. She’s wondering about the possibility of kids rushing for a free coloring book and crayons and how to approach it. We do have plenty of the one-month CBH kids’ devotionals.
For your information, our church broke up the money they intend to give us into quarterly payments. As yet, we have not received any payment.
We have a couple from our church (bilingual) that will be coming with us on March 7. We hope to explain to them that this is not an ‘in-your-face’ type thing, nor a push to ‘grow our church’, but rather a ‘question & answer’ type thing defending the Gospel. We will hand out nothing but rather wait for questions. We sure would like to have some input from you on how to respond to people approaching the table, as well as those joining us behind the table.
One of the fears is ‘not having the right answer’ to a question that might be asked and explaining, to those asking, what our purpose is.
Relying on Him as “He Directs Our Paths”,
Curt
Hebrews 7:18-28
The sermon on Hebrews 7:18-28 is one of my favorites of all time, from my Bible study teacher, Jim Reimann: http://jimreimann.com/podcasts/. I missed last Monday night, because I had to be out of town. I look forward to hearing it online and taking notes.
When Tolerance is Sin (by William MacDonald)
...There is another tolerance that is despicable. This is the willingness to remain silent when God’s name is blasphemed or when Christ is dishonoured. It is the treachery of silence when truth is on the scaffold. It is the unwillingness to speak out against evil. Tolerance that condones deceit and unrighteousness is sin. It is a sinful tolerance [1] that refuses to castigate a false church system that leads millions to eternal destruction with its perverted gospel. [2] That honours its head as a great evangelist at the same time that he is condemning evangelicals as wolves. [3] That labels God’s prophets as divisive when they denounce its idolatry, its mariolatry and its other heresies. [4] That sends converts back into its deadening clutches.
What has happened to the church of the martyrs? We have an enormous craving for popularity. This is the stuff of which false prophets are made. We have a desire to avoid unpleasantness at all cost. A desire like this keeps us from confronting, from intervening when we should. We have a distaste for being different. We find it easier to move along with the crowd, to drift with the tide. It is all too easy to remain silent when we are in an adverse theological climate. We are slaves who dare not to be right with two or three’. We have lost the capacity for being angry. We are not easily enough disturbed. We are in the sorry state of having no capacity for indignation. We are experts at putting off decisiveness simply because we don’t want to act.
BISHOP J C RYLE ALSO WROTE Controversy in religion is a hateful thing. It is hard enough to fight the devil, the world and the flesh without private differences in our own camp - but there is one thing which is even worse than controversy and that is false doctrine being tolerated, allowed and permitted without protest or molestation… Three things there are which men ought never to trifle with: a little poison, a little false doctrine, [and] a little sin. http://www.takeheed.net/whentol.htm
What has happened to the church of the martyrs? We have an enormous craving for popularity. This is the stuff of which false prophets are made. We have a desire to avoid unpleasantness at all cost. A desire like this keeps us from confronting, from intervening when we should. We have a distaste for being different. We find it easier to move along with the crowd, to drift with the tide. It is all too easy to remain silent when we are in an adverse theological climate. We are slaves who dare not to be right with two or three’. We have lost the capacity for being angry. We are not easily enough disturbed. We are in the sorry state of having no capacity for indignation. We are experts at putting off decisiveness simply because we don’t want to act.
BISHOP J C RYLE ALSO WROTE Controversy in religion is a hateful thing. It is hard enough to fight the devil, the world and the flesh without private differences in our own camp - but there is one thing which is even worse than controversy and that is false doctrine being tolerated, allowed and permitted without protest or molestation… Three things there are which men ought never to trifle with: a little poison, a little false doctrine, [and] a little sin. http://www.takeheed.net/whentol.htm
Sharing My Testimony on "Pure Passion" TV Program
I am driving out of Atlanta tomorrow to tape a television show to be aired on Direct TV. I will be giving my testimony on the program. I will be talking about the joys of letting God be "everything" to me and how my Prize is in Jesus.
Today I have been preparing for that, and I am enjoying working late tonight on an overdue ministry update. I will either send it out tonight or tomorrow night.
I will be returning to Atlanta after the taping of the program. More information can be found at http://www.purepassion.us/ . We use testimonies from this TV program in our ministry locations.
Today I have been preparing for that, and I am enjoying working late tonight on an overdue ministry update. I will either send it out tonight or tomorrow night.
I will be returning to Atlanta after the taping of the program. More information can be found at http://www.purepassion.us/ . We use testimonies from this TV program in our ministry locations.
The Joy of His Rest
The radio interview was such a joy. I have had the peace of God all day as I have worked. I was so blessed this afternoon speaking about His faithfulness on the radio program.
I am preparing another batch of articles to be scanned to PDF format for other Christians in our "LTW in Church" outreach. I will be getting the batch to some friends at Theta Baptist when I see them on March 8 for their help in scanning.
Plus, I have booked my flight for CO in May. It will be fun to meet with Christians in churches there, speak and sing at a retreat on loving God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength, and witness with the team on Pearl Street.
I am determined to compile the update on our ministry locations tomorrow for our prayer partners, which I had planned to do yesterday. Here it is at 1:00 A.M., and I am just now having time to post on the blog. But, I am not complaining. It has been a fun day of work, and I have gotten a lot done!
I am also in the midst of putting together a new slide presentation for churches in TN on March 8. I will be at Theta Baptist in the morning of March 8 and West Franklin Baptist at their Missions Fair that evening presenting information on our LTW street ministry locations of apologetics.
I have been so happy today...just thinking about the ways of God and His faithfulness and love! I am off to bed now, looking forward to tomorrow.
In His rest,
Dwayna
I am preparing another batch of articles to be scanned to PDF format for other Christians in our "LTW in Church" outreach. I will be getting the batch to some friends at Theta Baptist when I see them on March 8 for their help in scanning.
Plus, I have booked my flight for CO in May. It will be fun to meet with Christians in churches there, speak and sing at a retreat on loving God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength, and witness with the team on Pearl Street.
I am determined to compile the update on our ministry locations tomorrow for our prayer partners, which I had planned to do yesterday. Here it is at 1:00 A.M., and I am just now having time to post on the blog. But, I am not complaining. It has been a fun day of work, and I have gotten a lot done!
I am also in the midst of putting together a new slide presentation for churches in TN on March 8. I will be at Theta Baptist in the morning of March 8 and West Franklin Baptist at their Missions Fair that evening presenting information on our LTW street ministry locations of apologetics.
I have been so happy today...just thinking about the ways of God and His faithfulness and love! I am off to bed now, looking forward to tomorrow.
In His rest,
Dwayna
Friday, February 27, 2009
Another Problem for Darwinists (by Daniel Mann)
Darwinists have enough problems trying to explain any of the incredible traits that the various species use to survive. Now they have an additional problem. Geneticists have found that these species not only have actual adaptive traits, they also have potential adaptive traits hidden and waiting in the recesses of their genomes:
Some plants, such as the genus Flaveria in the sunflower family, have more than one way to do photosynthesis stored within them. Some species use one method, some use the other, but they all have hidden in their genes the pathways necessary for both types of photosynthesis. This suggests that God deliberately designed the plants so that they had the potential to access either pathway, perhaps depending on environmental conditions. (Creations’ Hidden Potential, Hennigan, Purdom, & Wood, “Answers,” Jan-Mar. 2009, 72)
It’s already hard enough for evolution to explain the development of photosynthesis, one step at a time, each step conferring some advantage on its host. But now it has the impossible task of explaining the presence of a complete and independent system, tucked neatly away in the genetic code, which confers no survival advantage at all until it springs into full operation at the flip of one switch.
This finding might explain a lot. How was Noah able to get all of the many hundreds of thousands of species of animals on his ark? Perhaps the tiger already contained the genetic programs to produce the lion, cheetah, and the thousands of varieties of cats? Perhaps the pre-Fall herbivorous animal world already possessed the genetic programs to become post-Fall carnivores?
Does this sound too far-fetched? I used to teach that we have over 3 billion bits of DNA information in our cells. However, with the discovery of super or marker genes, which are able to turn on and off entire lengths of genetic material, it’s become obvious that the extent of possible expression within a genome is far greater than previously supposed. Couple this with the fact that, according to Darwinists, species are able to morph with astronomical speed, and the question naturally arises, “Which makes more sense—that thousands of bits of genetic information suddenly changed or appeared to produce new, elegant and functioning organs or that these programs were already present, designed by a superior Intelligence, awaiting activation?” It’s like astronomer Fred Hoyle’s laughable example of a tornado manufacturing a functional Boeing 747 as it crashes through a junk yard. You be the judge!
Some plants, such as the genus Flaveria in the sunflower family, have more than one way to do photosynthesis stored within them. Some species use one method, some use the other, but they all have hidden in their genes the pathways necessary for both types of photosynthesis. This suggests that God deliberately designed the plants so that they had the potential to access either pathway, perhaps depending on environmental conditions. (Creations’ Hidden Potential, Hennigan, Purdom, & Wood, “Answers,” Jan-Mar. 2009, 72)
It’s already hard enough for evolution to explain the development of photosynthesis, one step at a time, each step conferring some advantage on its host. But now it has the impossible task of explaining the presence of a complete and independent system, tucked neatly away in the genetic code, which confers no survival advantage at all until it springs into full operation at the flip of one switch.
This finding might explain a lot. How was Noah able to get all of the many hundreds of thousands of species of animals on his ark? Perhaps the tiger already contained the genetic programs to produce the lion, cheetah, and the thousands of varieties of cats? Perhaps the pre-Fall herbivorous animal world already possessed the genetic programs to become post-Fall carnivores?
Does this sound too far-fetched? I used to teach that we have over 3 billion bits of DNA information in our cells. However, with the discovery of super or marker genes, which are able to turn on and off entire lengths of genetic material, it’s become obvious that the extent of possible expression within a genome is far greater than previously supposed. Couple this with the fact that, according to Darwinists, species are able to morph with astronomical speed, and the question naturally arises, “Which makes more sense—that thousands of bits of genetic information suddenly changed or appeared to produce new, elegant and functioning organs or that these programs were already present, designed by a superior Intelligence, awaiting activation?” It’s like astronomer Fred Hoyle’s laughable example of a tornado manufacturing a functional Boeing 747 as it crashes through a junk yard. You be the judge!
Daniel Mann
Radio Interview on Friday
I will be sharing my testimony on the radio tomorrow and will provide a link if I get one. We will also be discussing LTW and our outreach locations, especially to the sexually broken homosexual community in West Hollywood, CA, Long Beach, CA, San Diego, CA, and (soon to be) Midtown Atlanta.
Still
I am telling you, I have had the BEST DAY with the Lord. I have been leaning on Him, and He gave me this song:
Still
I will walk through this fire
With the Holy of Holies
And the God of all creation holding me
I will live through this night
With the light that defies darkness
With Jesus all I have and all I need
For He’s still
The God who cannot lie
And He’s still
The Giver of new life
A Savior who wept
For me to be kept
In the Father’s will
And He still
Forgives me of my sin
And remains
My Advocate and Friend
A faithful Judge
The one who my soul loves
And always will
Yes, He’s still
The Ruler of my days
The Shepherd of my heart
And worthy of all praise
A Shelter of love
When I’ve messed up
Where I can rest and heal
The God of Israel
Who walks me through the flame
For me to live to tell
The glory of His name
The Author of my faith
Indebtingly to save
Me to love Him still
Still
I will walk through this fire
With the Holy of Holies
And the God of all creation holding me
I will live through this night
With the light that defies darkness
With Jesus all I have and all I need
For He’s still
The God who cannot lie
And He’s still
The Giver of new life
A Savior who wept
For me to be kept
In the Father’s will
And He still
Forgives me of my sin
And remains
My Advocate and Friend
A faithful Judge
The one who my soul loves
And always will
Yes, He’s still
The Ruler of my days
The Shepherd of my heart
And worthy of all praise
A Shelter of love
When I’ve messed up
Where I can rest and heal
The God of Israel
Who walks me through the flame
For me to live to tell
The glory of His name
The Author of my faith
Indebtingly to save
Me to love Him still
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Answered Prayer!
Mike and Eileen set out to Venice Beach to do ministry there again last weekend and could not get a spot on the boardwalk. I have been praying for someone to help us with this--someone who can attend a "lottery" at Venice Beach on Tuesdays to get a spot and meet up with the team on Saturdays at our assigned spot for the booth. Just today, God has given us a person! I am so thankful for this!!! Now, we should be able to get a spot on the boardwalk along with the other vendors and set up our table of apologetics there this spring and summer!
A Tender Heart: Opposite from the World
A good friend reminded me today by phone that a tender heart is opposite from the world, and it is a blessing to cry and feel tender toward others and the things of God. I was reminded that just recently I have spoken with people with such hard hearts as I tried to witness to them about the love of Jesus. Along with sin comes a hard heart, and I cannot think of a worse punishment.
Today, I am reading Isaiah 6 and 7.
"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory."
And the Lord said to Isaiah, "Go out to meet Ahaz...and say to him, 'Be careful, be quiet, do not fear, and do not let your heart be faint..." (Isaiah 7:3-4)
How I thank God for His precious, powerful WORD that sustains us against the onslaughts of Satan. The battle truly is the Lord's.
Today, I am reading Isaiah 6 and 7.
"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory."
And the Lord said to Isaiah, "Go out to meet Ahaz...and say to him, 'Be careful, be quiet, do not fear, and do not let your heart be faint..." (Isaiah 7:3-4)
How I thank God for His precious, powerful WORD that sustains us against the onslaughts of Satan. The battle truly is the Lord's.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Beware of The Shack
This link exposes the pagan and occult influences of the popular book, The Shack. Click here for articles exposing the danger from a spiritual standpoint biblically. Here are some quotes taken from the book:
"God, who is the ground of all being, dwells in, around, and through all things....” [panentheism] -----The Shack's "Jesus." [1,p.112]
"Those who love me come from every system that exists. They were Buddhists or Mormons, Baptists or Muslims.... I have no desire to make them Christian, but I do want to join them in their transformation into sons and daughters of my Papa, into my brothers and sisters.”
-----The Shack's "Jesus." [1,p.182]
"The esoteric spiritual traditions -- whether Christian mystics, Hebrew Kabbalists, Zen Buddhists, Islamic Sufis, or Hindu yogis -- all have specific practices to help individuals overcome this great 'illusion of separation' and to experience the One True Self, which is in us all." [2,p.149]-----A Course in Miracles, as "dictated" to channeler Helen Schucman in 1977 by her spirit guide who claimed to be "Jesus."
"God, who is the ground of all being, dwells in, around, and through all things....” [panentheism] -----The Shack's "Jesus." [1,p.112]
"Those who love me come from every system that exists. They were Buddhists or Mormons, Baptists or Muslims.... I have no desire to make them Christian, but I do want to join them in their transformation into sons and daughters of my Papa, into my brothers and sisters.”
-----The Shack's "Jesus." [1,p.182]
"The esoteric spiritual traditions -- whether Christian mystics, Hebrew Kabbalists, Zen Buddhists, Islamic Sufis, or Hindu yogis -- all have specific practices to help individuals overcome this great 'illusion of separation' and to experience the One True Self, which is in us all." [2,p.149]-----A Course in Miracles, as "dictated" to channeler Helen Schucman in 1977 by her spirit guide who claimed to be "Jesus."
Walking "Worthy of the Lord"
http://www.gty.org/Resources/Devotionals:
"So that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects" (Col. 1:10). In Colossians 1:9 Paul speaks of being controlled by the knowledge of God's will. In verse 10 he speaks of walking in a manner worthy of the Lord. There is a direct cause-and-effect relationship between those verses. When you are controlled by the knowledge of God's will, you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.
The Greek word translated "walk" means "to order one's behavior." It's a common New Testament metaphor for one's lifestyle. Paul made a similar plea to the Thessalonians: "Walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory" (1 Thess. 2:12). The thought of being worthy of the Lord might raise some eyebrows because we usually relate worthiness to merit or something deserved. But that isn't Paul's point at all. The Greek word translated "worthy" in Colossians 1:10 speaks of something that weighs as much or carries the same value as something else. He isn't saying we deserve Christ, but that our conduct should be consistent with His.
That is Peter's point in 1 Peter 2:21: "You have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps." John said, "The one who says he abides in [Christ] ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked" (1 John 2:6).
He added in 2 John 6, "Walk according to His commandments." That's how you demonstrate your love for Christ (John 14:15) and please Him in every respect.
As a word of encouragement, a worthy walk is not a walk of sinless perfection. That won't happen until you are fully glorified. But each day you are growing in godliness as a result of the Spirit's transforming work in you (2 Cor. 3:18). Be faithful to that process. Set your affections on Christ, look to His Word, and rejoice in the privilege of becoming more like Him today.
"So that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects" (Col. 1:10). In Colossians 1:9 Paul speaks of being controlled by the knowledge of God's will. In verse 10 he speaks of walking in a manner worthy of the Lord. There is a direct cause-and-effect relationship between those verses. When you are controlled by the knowledge of God's will, you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.
The Greek word translated "walk" means "to order one's behavior." It's a common New Testament metaphor for one's lifestyle. Paul made a similar plea to the Thessalonians: "Walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory" (1 Thess. 2:12). The thought of being worthy of the Lord might raise some eyebrows because we usually relate worthiness to merit or something deserved. But that isn't Paul's point at all. The Greek word translated "worthy" in Colossians 1:10 speaks of something that weighs as much or carries the same value as something else. He isn't saying we deserve Christ, but that our conduct should be consistent with His.
That is Peter's point in 1 Peter 2:21: "You have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps." John said, "The one who says he abides in [Christ] ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked" (1 John 2:6).
He added in 2 John 6, "Walk according to His commandments." That's how you demonstrate your love for Christ (John 14:15) and please Him in every respect.
As a word of encouragement, a worthy walk is not a walk of sinless perfection. That won't happen until you are fully glorified. But each day you are growing in godliness as a result of the Spirit's transforming work in you (2 Cor. 3:18). Be faithful to that process. Set your affections on Christ, look to His Word, and rejoice in the privilege of becoming more like Him today.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Join Me for a Retreat in CO in May...
After much prayer, I feel led by the Lord to agree to attending a retreat the first of May, and I will be singing there and speaking about our outreach, too. It is going to be great! If I can bring someone, it will be cheaper…If you or anyone you know would be interested in such a retreat, please let me know…
To sum up the theme of the retreat, it is on healing from sexual brokenness, same sex-attractions, child sexual abuse, etc. and how to walk in newness of life in Jesus. LTW will have an information table, inviting those attending to do outreach with us and find their GREATEST JOY in serving the Lord through service to others. We will hopefully see them join us in ministry on Pearl Street after the retreat!
There is friend of mine who is saved. He is also an “ex-homosexual"! Believe it or not, Jesus has changed him. Jayson Graves used to struggle with sexual brokenness and gender confusion and...homosexuality, but he is married now with kids, and he has an excellent, full time counseling ministry to people who have same sex attractions in and out of the church. We refer people to him at our LTW locations for counseling, as we do outreach to homosexuals, especially in West Hollywood, CA. He also has counseling for people addicted to pornography within the church. He works with “Love Won Out” (Focus on the Family), Exodus, and is on the Board for a TV show where testimonies from ex-prostitutes and ex-homosexuals are featured called “Pure Passion” at http://www.purepassion.us .
Please click on his site below to find out more information about the retreat in Estes Park the first of May. Please email me if you can join me. It will save this ministry some money if I can bring someone and get a discounted rate.
Jayson Graves
Healing for the Soul & The SoulHealer Foundation
Join us at our RETREAT: "HOPE...as BIG as Texas!"
Sign up for our eNewsletter...click here!
Watch the PurePassion TV program
Listen to The Blazing Grace Show podcast
www.healingforthesoul.org
Office: 719-590-SOUL (7685)
Fax: 719-325-7057
To sum up the theme of the retreat, it is on healing from sexual brokenness, same sex-attractions, child sexual abuse, etc. and how to walk in newness of life in Jesus. LTW will have an information table, inviting those attending to do outreach with us and find their GREATEST JOY in serving the Lord through service to others. We will hopefully see them join us in ministry on Pearl Street after the retreat!
There is friend of mine who is saved. He is also an “ex-homosexual"! Believe it or not, Jesus has changed him. Jayson Graves used to struggle with sexual brokenness and gender confusion and...homosexuality, but he is married now with kids, and he has an excellent, full time counseling ministry to people who have same sex attractions in and out of the church. We refer people to him at our LTW locations for counseling, as we do outreach to homosexuals, especially in West Hollywood, CA. He also has counseling for people addicted to pornography within the church. He works with “Love Won Out” (Focus on the Family), Exodus, and is on the Board for a TV show where testimonies from ex-prostitutes and ex-homosexuals are featured called “Pure Passion” at http://www.purepassion.us .
Please click on his site below to find out more information about the retreat in Estes Park the first of May. Please email me if you can join me. It will save this ministry some money if I can bring someone and get a discounted rate.
Jayson Graves
Healing for the Soul & The SoulHealer Foundation
Join us at our RETREAT: "HOPE...as BIG as Texas!"
Sign up for our eNewsletter...click here!
Watch the PurePassion TV program
Listen to The Blazing Grace Show podcast
www.healingforthesoul.org
Office: 719-590-SOUL (7685)
Fax: 719-325-7057
This is going to be great! Living in the victorious freedom of obedience is much better than the traps of sin any day!!!!
Monday, February 23, 2009
"LTW in Church" Apologetics for Christians
Below is our first batch of hard copies of articles I will be organizing and sending for "LTW in Church" at various churches for Christians. We will be sending these to friends at Theta Baptist (Columbia, TN) who are helping us scan these to PDF format for easier distribution to churches in the future.
Catholicism
Catholicism (Pope)
Catholicism and the Emergent Church (Part 1, 2, 3)
Pope’s Word or the Bible (Spanish and English)
Catholicism (Pope as the “Vicar of Christ”?)
The Bible vs. Catholicism
Indulgences (tract for Catholics)
List of Heresies (and human traditions adopted and perpetuated by the Roman Catholic Church in the course of 1600 years)
Buddhism
Feng Shui (spiritual practice involving arranging furniture in the home for occult powers; Buddhism)
Tract for Buddhist (Testimonies of former Buddhists)
Tract for Zen practitioners
“The Shadow of the Dalai Lama” –web site URL exposing true agenda of the Dalai Lama
http://www.trimondi.de/EN/front.html:
Islam
Jesus vs. Mohammed
For Islam—tract for Moslems
“Dear Moslem Friend” (Quoting from the Quran)
The Gospel of an Angel—The History and Meaning of Islam
Seeker-friendly
Joel Osteen Quotes (Transcript from Larry King Live)
Word Faith Movement
Are Christians Little gods? (Word of Faith Movement)
Slain in the Spirit Movement (Word of Faith)
Verses Against Positive Confession/Mind Science/Word of Faith Movement
Beliefs and Teachings of Satanism “Do As Thou Wilt…”
Satanic Bible and the New Age Movement Parelels
Occult Spirituality/New Age
Enlightenment Test (Bible vs. New Age)
UFOs, ETs, and the New Age: A Christian Perspective
Spirituality: A Matter of Choice?
“Magic Anyone?” (tract for psychics and mediums)
Evolution
Is Science Finding God?
The Early Church Defended Creation Science
Contemplative Prayer
Unwinding the Labyrinth…Contemplative Prayer Expose’
Thomas Merton and Movement of Contemplative Prayer (“Thomas Merton: Heretic or Contemplative Christian?’)
Cults
The Way International –Christian or Cult?
What is Wrong With Scientology?
Jehovah’s Witnesses
The Jesus of the Watchtower (for JWs)
Top Ten Amazing Facts of Mormonism
Is Mormonism Christian?
Are You Prepared to Meet God—A Simple Test for the Honest Latter-Day Saint (for Mormons)
Bible
Scriptures on hell
The Gospel of Jesus Christ (Scriptures)
Who Gave Us the Bible (written by former Nun; against apocrypha)
What Does the Bible Say About Marriage
Who Wants a Judgmental God? (Tract)
Homosexuality
Developing an Effective Answer to the Gay Rights Movement
Gnosticism/Hollywood Marketing of “Lost Tomb of Jesus”
“The Lost Tomb of Jesus”—Yet Another Attack Upon Jesus and His Resurrection
False Tombs and Gnostic Tales Mocking the Heart of Christianity
Book Reviews
“A New Mask for an Ancient Secret” (Exposes The Secret book Oprah Winfrey promotes)
Wild at Heart book review
Judaism
Prophecies for Jews fulfilled by Jesus
Witnessing Materials for Jews (some articles in Hebrew and English to show how Jesus fulfilled prophecies)
Jewish Objections to Jesus
Hare Krishna
Hare Krishna vs. Christianity (Scriptures to contradict Hare Krishna practices and beliefs)
Catholicism
Catholicism (Pope)
Catholicism and the Emergent Church (Part 1, 2, 3)
Pope’s Word or the Bible (Spanish and English)
Catholicism (Pope as the “Vicar of Christ”?)
The Bible vs. Catholicism
Indulgences (tract for Catholics)
List of Heresies (and human traditions adopted and perpetuated by the Roman Catholic Church in the course of 1600 years)
Buddhism
Feng Shui (spiritual practice involving arranging furniture in the home for occult powers; Buddhism)
Tract for Buddhist (Testimonies of former Buddhists)
Tract for Zen practitioners
“The Shadow of the Dalai Lama” –web site URL exposing true agenda of the Dalai Lama
http://www.trimondi.de/EN/front.html:
Islam
Jesus vs. Mohammed
For Islam—tract for Moslems
“Dear Moslem Friend” (Quoting from the Quran)
The Gospel of an Angel—The History and Meaning of Islam
Seeker-friendly
Joel Osteen Quotes (Transcript from Larry King Live)
Word Faith Movement
Are Christians Little gods? (Word of Faith Movement)
Slain in the Spirit Movement (Word of Faith)
Verses Against Positive Confession/Mind Science/Word of Faith Movement
Beliefs and Teachings of Satanism “Do As Thou Wilt…”
Satanic Bible and the New Age Movement Parelels
Occult Spirituality/New Age
Enlightenment Test (Bible vs. New Age)
UFOs, ETs, and the New Age: A Christian Perspective
Spirituality: A Matter of Choice?
“Magic Anyone?” (tract for psychics and mediums)
Evolution
Is Science Finding God?
The Early Church Defended Creation Science
Contemplative Prayer
Unwinding the Labyrinth…Contemplative Prayer Expose’
Thomas Merton and Movement of Contemplative Prayer (“Thomas Merton: Heretic or Contemplative Christian?’)
Cults
The Way International –Christian or Cult?
What is Wrong With Scientology?
Jehovah’s Witnesses
The Jesus of the Watchtower (for JWs)
Top Ten Amazing Facts of Mormonism
Is Mormonism Christian?
Are You Prepared to Meet God—A Simple Test for the Honest Latter-Day Saint (for Mormons)
Bible
Scriptures on hell
The Gospel of Jesus Christ (Scriptures)
Who Gave Us the Bible (written by former Nun; against apocrypha)
What Does the Bible Say About Marriage
Who Wants a Judgmental God? (Tract)
Homosexuality
Developing an Effective Answer to the Gay Rights Movement
Gnosticism/Hollywood Marketing of “Lost Tomb of Jesus”
“The Lost Tomb of Jesus”—Yet Another Attack Upon Jesus and His Resurrection
False Tombs and Gnostic Tales Mocking the Heart of Christianity
Book Reviews
“A New Mask for an Ancient Secret” (Exposes The Secret book Oprah Winfrey promotes)
Wild at Heart book review
Judaism
Prophecies for Jews fulfilled by Jesus
Witnessing Materials for Jews (some articles in Hebrew and English to show how Jesus fulfilled prophecies)
Jewish Objections to Jesus
Hare Krishna
Hare Krishna vs. Christianity (Scriptures to contradict Hare Krishna practices and beliefs)
Work Today
Today, I am working more on our new ministry "LTW in Church" and doing web site updates...in between appointments. By the end of the day, I hope to have a list of the first batch of articles (hard copies) will be sending to the pastor at Sevier Heights Baptist for our new outreach of apologetics to Christians.
"Jesus...Is Open to Other 'Ways'?"
I really enjoyed reading this recent update from Daniel Mann. NYC is known for many things, but sound churches is not one of them!
----------------------------
Daniel Mann
----------------------------
I went to a chapel service at Union Theological Seminary entitled, “Jesus the Way that is Open to Other Ways.” The title reflects the fact that many at Union still want to retain their Christian identity yet don’t want to be limited by its teachings. The presenters wrestled with John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” However, instead of trying to exegete the verse to make room for other saviors and other salvations, the speakers gently massaged it with their testimonies, as if trying to relax its message enough to include other religions and “ways.”
One young lady talked about a boyfriend who rejected her because she didn’t take John 14:6 literally. Another asserted that Jesus was about community, inclusiveness and receiving outcasts, and somehow that meant accepting other religions and unbiblical lifestyles without any consideration of repentance. We were left with the impression that God couldn’t possibly be as narrow and judgmental as Evangelicals make Him out to be.
If I asked them, “Wouldn’t you want a God who is grieved about sin and injustice and will ultimately right the wrongs?” they would probably say, “Yes!” We do want God to be narrow about certain things, like His choosing humans over amoeba. However, if I then asked, “Would you respect a religion of violence, one that preaches suicide bombing and female circumcision,” they would begin to squirm. If I then asked, “Wouldn’t a religion that teaches harmful sexual practices be beneath the dignity of God,” they might become defensive.
Ultimately, it’s not a question of what we want, but what God wants. We should expect Him to have standards and truths. Any teacher, doctor or parent would not be able to operate without standards. It, therefore, hardly seems justifiable to recoil at the idea that God might make use of these.
When I started to “earnestly” search for God, I found myself gravitating to the Book of Joshua, which I found highly “inspirational.” This was because, as a Jew, I was elevated by our Israelite accomplishments in defeating all the Canaanite nations! Yes! This was the very god I was looking for—one who’d elevate my sense of self. However, the Book of Joshua is followed by Judges, which I found overly depressing. The Israelites were being repeatedly defeated and subjected to great humiliations. It became too much for me, and I put the Bible down.
I hadn’t really been searching for God, but instead for something that would affirm me, my ways, and make me feel good about myself. What’s wrong with that! Well, if God had allowed me to find what I was looking for, I would have become more arrogant, condescending, self-sufficient and enabled in my chauvinism. I had believed that I could run my life pretty darn well. Not knowing the depth of my sinfulness and self-deception, I would have had no reservations about reinterpreting God’s Word to suit myself and my philosophy of life.
It has only been in recent years that I can look back and say as King David had, “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees” (Psalm 119:71). Consequently, I now pray, “Not my will, but Your narrow and exclusive will be done.”
One young lady talked about a boyfriend who rejected her because she didn’t take John 14:6 literally. Another asserted that Jesus was about community, inclusiveness and receiving outcasts, and somehow that meant accepting other religions and unbiblical lifestyles without any consideration of repentance. We were left with the impression that God couldn’t possibly be as narrow and judgmental as Evangelicals make Him out to be.
If I asked them, “Wouldn’t you want a God who is grieved about sin and injustice and will ultimately right the wrongs?” they would probably say, “Yes!” We do want God to be narrow about certain things, like His choosing humans over amoeba. However, if I then asked, “Would you respect a religion of violence, one that preaches suicide bombing and female circumcision,” they would begin to squirm. If I then asked, “Wouldn’t a religion that teaches harmful sexual practices be beneath the dignity of God,” they might become defensive.
Ultimately, it’s not a question of what we want, but what God wants. We should expect Him to have standards and truths. Any teacher, doctor or parent would not be able to operate without standards. It, therefore, hardly seems justifiable to recoil at the idea that God might make use of these.
When I started to “earnestly” search for God, I found myself gravitating to the Book of Joshua, which I found highly “inspirational.” This was because, as a Jew, I was elevated by our Israelite accomplishments in defeating all the Canaanite nations! Yes! This was the very god I was looking for—one who’d elevate my sense of self. However, the Book of Joshua is followed by Judges, which I found overly depressing. The Israelites were being repeatedly defeated and subjected to great humiliations. It became too much for me, and I put the Bible down.
I hadn’t really been searching for God, but instead for something that would affirm me, my ways, and make me feel good about myself. What’s wrong with that! Well, if God had allowed me to find what I was looking for, I would have become more arrogant, condescending, self-sufficient and enabled in my chauvinism. I had believed that I could run my life pretty darn well. Not knowing the depth of my sinfulness and self-deception, I would have had no reservations about reinterpreting God’s Word to suit myself and my philosophy of life.
It has only been in recent years that I can look back and say as King David had, “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees” (Psalm 119:71). Consequently, I now pray, “Not my will, but Your narrow and exclusive will be done.”
Daniel Mann
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Brief Update
Thank you for your prayers for last night's radio interview. It went well. I realize that I cannot do anything in my own strength for eternity, so I trust the Holy Spirit spoke through me last night as we discussed very easily the pleasures of obedience in the radio interview, and I shared my testimony briefly.
This week my focus is on 1) getting "LTW in Church" off the ground (which entails A LOT of work) 2) speaking with some A&R people in Contemporary Christian music about a possible record deal 3) working on a new video/slide presentation DVD to show all of our outreach locations in LTW.
Here is a comment I just received by email from a researcher on the Hebrew Roots Movement (to show the HR is akin to the Kabballah, which is the study of Jewish occult spirituality):
This week my focus is on 1) getting "LTW in Church" off the ground (which entails A LOT of work) 2) speaking with some A&R people in Contemporary Christian music about a possible record deal 3) working on a new video/slide presentation DVD to show all of our outreach locations in LTW.
Here is a comment I just received by email from a researcher on the Hebrew Roots Movement (to show the HR is akin to the Kabballah, which is the study of Jewish occult spirituality):
"Ya know . . . I've learned a little bit more about Kabbalah and the place of primacy the Hebrew language holds in Jewish Mysticism. It's "the language of G-d", the very breath that He used to create the universe (Torah came into existence at the same time, btw). HRMers take that a step further and use John 1 to say that the Word that was God/with God was Torah . . . yup, Yeshua is "Torah incarnate". That's one reason the Hebrew becomes so important to these folks . . . though many of them don't know the real reasons 'til they're in neck deep."
Friday, February 20, 2009
Sharing My Testimony on Watchman Radio Tomorrow Night
I am excited about sharing my testimony on Watchman Radio tomorrow night. I will provide a link, so others can hear it online if I get that information. The topic is loving God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength (the first and greatest commandment) and living a life where He is everything to us. It is such a joy to share about what it means to die, so that He can live through us! I am so thankful for all He has done in my life, and I look forward to sharing my testimony on the air tomorrow night.
This is the first night I have had Internet access in my condo unit. I have been working in my storage unit daily, preparing many new articles for the new "LTW in Church" ministry of apologetics to other Christians at Sevier Heights Baptist. I have been gathering sermons from Walter Martin and articles, which I will have organized in file bins, hopefully by next week, to send to the pastors there.
I am also thankful for some good news I have received about the music God has given me, as I have completed a ten-song music recording. I have written all of the songs except for the hymns and one original written by Frank Piazza and Clay Smith. (Clay is an elder at a partnering church, Theta Baptist Church in Columbia, TN.) As enthusiastic as I am about singing more, I was reminded last night that I was saved to be a servant, not a star. God reminded me of this in my prayer time, and I feel that I am meant to start another outreach here in Atlanta--Ater all, there is nothing like doing a street outreach to keep me humble.There is a huge homosexual community here, and I want to start a table like we have in West Hollywood, "A Heart for Him" where testimonies on CD are offered for free to people--testimonies of God's pure love and how He has changed people to walk in newness of life. We will set it up in Midtown...
(Go here to the LTW page on our ministry to West Hollywood to read testimonies from former lesbians and gay men who have left the lifestyle to know a better relationship--a close relationship with Jesus!)
This is the first night I have had Internet access in my condo unit. I have been working in my storage unit daily, preparing many new articles for the new "LTW in Church" ministry of apologetics to other Christians at Sevier Heights Baptist. I have been gathering sermons from Walter Martin and articles, which I will have organized in file bins, hopefully by next week, to send to the pastors there.
I am also thankful for some good news I have received about the music God has given me, as I have completed a ten-song music recording. I have written all of the songs except for the hymns and one original written by Frank Piazza and Clay Smith. (Clay is an elder at a partnering church, Theta Baptist Church in Columbia, TN.) As enthusiastic as I am about singing more, I was reminded last night that I was saved to be a servant, not a star. God reminded me of this in my prayer time, and I feel that I am meant to start another outreach here in Atlanta--Ater all, there is nothing like doing a street outreach to keep me humble.There is a huge homosexual community here, and I want to start a table like we have in West Hollywood, "A Heart for Him" where testimonies on CD are offered for free to people--testimonies of God's pure love and how He has changed people to walk in newness of life. We will set it up in Midtown...
(Go here to the LTW page on our ministry to West Hollywood to read testimonies from former lesbians and gay men who have left the lifestyle to know a better relationship--a close relationship with Jesus!)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Wonderful Essay on the Character of God (and Homosexuality) by Daniel Mann
A friend confided his skepticism about the Bible: “I don’t see why this biblical god would condemn gays to sexual isolation. He doesn’t seem very loving to me!” Indeed, a God who would condemn people to loneliness and isolation without good reason isn’t loving. But God is not a cosmic kill-joy as many suppose! His laws and teachings weren’t designed to enslave us but to free us from the many influences and addictions that can harm us (John 8:31-32). Actually, His laws were intended to provide our deepest delight:
But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers (Psalm 1:2-3; Rom. 7:22).
How can following a set of foreign rules laid down by a demanding tyrant become a delight? For one thing, these are the very laws He has written on our hearts (Jer. 31:33; Rom. 2:14-15). Therefore, when we follow His teachings, we are also complying with the demands and requirements of our own heart, which also says, “Forgive them, love them!”
Following His teachings is more than a delight; it is also a source of great blessing. The Psalmist proclaims, “Whatever he does prospers!” Conversely, by not living in harmony with these truths, we hurt ourselves:
Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me [the wisdom of God’s Word], watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death (Proverbs 8:33-36).
In the same way that we hurt ourselves by going against God’s physical order, we hurt ourselves by going against the moral/spiritual law, with which He has programmed our hearts. As we defile ourselves with a steady diet of junk-food, we likewise defile ourselves when we violate moral truth by lying, stealing, hurting, or committing adultery. We become the product of our decisions and carry in our body the harsh indictment of the junk-food we’ve thoughtlessly consumed.
If the moral law is as evident as the physical law, why then isn’t there more agreement about such things as abortion or homosexuality? The moral law intrudes more aggressively against our chosen lifestyles and delivers a moral indictment—something we don’t find very pleasurable. In fact, this indictment is so unacceptable that Jesus, a sinless man, had to be put to death by the accused. As He had stated, the world “hates Me because I testify that what it does is evil” (John 7:7). Nevertheless, love must sometimes point the accusing finger.
But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers (Psalm 1:2-3; Rom. 7:22).
How can following a set of foreign rules laid down by a demanding tyrant become a delight? For one thing, these are the very laws He has written on our hearts (Jer. 31:33; Rom. 2:14-15). Therefore, when we follow His teachings, we are also complying with the demands and requirements of our own heart, which also says, “Forgive them, love them!”
Following His teachings is more than a delight; it is also a source of great blessing. The Psalmist proclaims, “Whatever he does prospers!” Conversely, by not living in harmony with these truths, we hurt ourselves:
Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me [the wisdom of God’s Word], watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death (Proverbs 8:33-36).
In the same way that we hurt ourselves by going against God’s physical order, we hurt ourselves by going against the moral/spiritual law, with which He has programmed our hearts. As we defile ourselves with a steady diet of junk-food, we likewise defile ourselves when we violate moral truth by lying, stealing, hurting, or committing adultery. We become the product of our decisions and carry in our body the harsh indictment of the junk-food we’ve thoughtlessly consumed.
If the moral law is as evident as the physical law, why then isn’t there more agreement about such things as abortion or homosexuality? The moral law intrudes more aggressively against our chosen lifestyles and delivers a moral indictment—something we don’t find very pleasurable. In fact, this indictment is so unacceptable that Jesus, a sinless man, had to be put to death by the accused. As He had stated, the world “hates Me because I testify that what it does is evil” (John 7:7). Nevertheless, love must sometimes point the accusing finger.
--Daniel Mann
NY School of the Bible
Praying to Be a Woman After God's Own Heart
My heart is so filled with joy today. I cannot express how thankful I am to have Jesus living in me. Last night's Bible study with Jim Reimann moved me to tears as verse after verse taught of the majesty of Jesus and His PURE love. Why would anyone want to change such a message or change Him? He is such a wonderful Savior. (Of course, the answer is "sin." People love sin, and that is why they attempt to appease their guilty conscience...while on the road to hell.) What a blessing to be able to fast and pray for lost loved ones and even be moved to tears when observing someone walking in darkness. I am continuing to pray for people who need to be set free from sin in Jesus.
I am paying for an Internet connection today (for 24 hours), because the free Internet was so weak yesterday at the little coffee shop where I have been going since my move. I am working on organizing an exciting new ministry at Sevier Heights Baptist Church, which will be an outreach of apologetics for Christians. We will have everything covered from Islam, Mormonism, atheism, Christian Science, Scientology...to Buddhism, Hinduism, yoga, Unity School of Christianity, and...more! We want to give biblical answers for WHY we believe in God and how we can know the Bible is God's Word. Of course, such faith only comes as a gift from God, the Bible teaches.
Oh, how it humbles a sinner like myself to know that Jesus would show such favor on me. It makes me want to live for Him without compromise.
I am due to get an Internet connection in my condo unit on Friday, which will make working considerably easier. I plan to write two new tracts as soon as possible and pitch them to Thomas Nelson for publishing.
1) tract for homosexuals (to prove that the Jesus of the Bible is pure. He was no homosexual! I plan to prove this by Bible verses, which tell of His purity and shoot down perverted arguments from hell about my wonderful Savior.)
2) tract for children to show that God loves children and is ready and willing to save them. (After all, I was saved at age 5).
Not wanting for any good thing in Jesus,
Dwayna
I am paying for an Internet connection today (for 24 hours), because the free Internet was so weak yesterday at the little coffee shop where I have been going since my move. I am working on organizing an exciting new ministry at Sevier Heights Baptist Church, which will be an outreach of apologetics for Christians. We will have everything covered from Islam, Mormonism, atheism, Christian Science, Scientology...to Buddhism, Hinduism, yoga, Unity School of Christianity, and...more! We want to give biblical answers for WHY we believe in God and how we can know the Bible is God's Word. Of course, such faith only comes as a gift from God, the Bible teaches.
Oh, how it humbles a sinner like myself to know that Jesus would show such favor on me. It makes me want to live for Him without compromise.
I am due to get an Internet connection in my condo unit on Friday, which will make working considerably easier. I plan to write two new tracts as soon as possible and pitch them to Thomas Nelson for publishing.
1) tract for homosexuals (to prove that the Jesus of the Bible is pure. He was no homosexual! I plan to prove this by Bible verses, which tell of His purity and shoot down perverted arguments from hell about my wonderful Savior.)
2) tract for children to show that God loves children and is ready and willing to save them. (After all, I was saved at age 5).
Not wanting for any good thing in Jesus,
Dwayna
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Table Ministry Update: Jerusalem
Rami, Dwayna, Evette, and the girls in their home
My mother at the ministry table when we worked with Rami, Oct., 2008
Ministry in action....
...Evette with the children...
...witnessing to Moslem women...
Here is a recent update from Rami, leader of the table ministry right outside the New Gate in Jerusalem's Old City where Bibles, books, tracts, and DVDs are available for free to people passing by on how to be saved through Jesus. There are materials for Moslems, Catholics, and Jews.
-------------------------------------
FEBRUARY 10 REPORT
The Table Ministry is facing a number of strong attacks from Satan. Spiritual trials are also being experienced by a number of people from Muslim background that have accepted Christ as their Savior. A number of unbelievers continue to publically resist us. This is especially true of those from the "Christian" community. There are several believers also who believe our methods and materials are too aggressive and who refuse to help and encourage us in this outreach ministry.
The Table Ministry is facing a number of strong attacks from Satan. Spiritual trials are also being experienced by a number of people from Muslim background that have accepted Christ as their Savior. A number of unbelievers continue to publically resist us. This is especially true of those from the "Christian" community. There are several believers also who believe our methods and materials are too aggressive and who refuse to help and encourage us in this outreach ministry.
This makes the commitment of those who pray for the Table Ministry even more important. On the other hand, our table is most often visited by members of the Moslem faith who take our materials and return with significant questions. Several good encouragements also came recently, while we were evangelizing in the streets. A Catholic priest told us how happy he is with our ministry and is praying for us. At various times, he has taken a number of our books and videos. Also, last week, one of the police authorities protected us from a disturbance.
MBB's Needing Prayer:
Fadi lives in Hebron and came to know the Lord about 5 months ago. As a 2nd year university student studying physics, he is finding it difficult to stay in school because of his family's financial needs. Fadi has nevertheless tried to be courageous in his faith. A few Moslems knowing about his faith began threatening him, causing him problems with his family. These Moslems have also tried to seduce him to leave his faith by promising him to pay his university fees. We pray the Lord strengthens him in temptation and provides all his needs.
Taher is from Kalandia village and is married with 6 children; one of which is also married. He came to faith last August and has a desire to share his faith with his family, sometimes bringing one of his daughters to church. Taher needs to find work and also needs protection, especially because he is a well-known and important person in his community. Pray for him to have wisdom and courage.
A'laa and his wife Fatima are living in Ramallah. They became believers last August and have had regular spiritual care. Their personal burden is the absence of children. Fatima also needs to find work or return to university studies, which will make her more employable. Pray for this decision and the gift of a child.
Fidaa' is from Jerusalem. As a divorced woman, she lives at home with 2 daughters. Fidaa' accepted Jesus as her Savior before Christmas. After her family learned about her faith, she was beaten and prevented from visiting the church. Her father restricts all of her movements outside the home. Please pray the Lord comforts and sustains Fidaa' in the midst of her circumstances. Pray that she is not overly tempted to give-up her faith, but to grow in her trust in the Lord Jesus.
These new friends in the faith that are named above are joined by many others, all of which are receiving occasional or frequent contact for Bible study by telephone or in person. Continue to pray for Khalid, a renewed believer for over 1 year, challenged by his wife's Islamic faith, and for "Sheik Anees" living in fear as a secret believer. Pray also for the many others like Jawad, Muhammed, Waleed and his wife Flavia, who are seeking to grow in faith, as well as the many seekers we meet in the street. Yermo (our Finnish ministry worker) left Israel, but continues to faithfully stand with us. Keep praying for one Arab volunteer from the church to help us regularly in the street. Thank you for your support in prayer. The Table Ministry is grateful to God for every form of encouragement and financial gift.
MBB's Needing Prayer:
Fadi lives in Hebron and came to know the Lord about 5 months ago. As a 2nd year university student studying physics, he is finding it difficult to stay in school because of his family's financial needs. Fadi has nevertheless tried to be courageous in his faith. A few Moslems knowing about his faith began threatening him, causing him problems with his family. These Moslems have also tried to seduce him to leave his faith by promising him to pay his university fees. We pray the Lord strengthens him in temptation and provides all his needs.
Taher is from Kalandia village and is married with 6 children; one of which is also married. He came to faith last August and has a desire to share his faith with his family, sometimes bringing one of his daughters to church. Taher needs to find work and also needs protection, especially because he is a well-known and important person in his community. Pray for him to have wisdom and courage.
A'laa and his wife Fatima are living in Ramallah. They became believers last August and have had regular spiritual care. Their personal burden is the absence of children. Fatima also needs to find work or return to university studies, which will make her more employable. Pray for this decision and the gift of a child.
Fidaa' is from Jerusalem. As a divorced woman, she lives at home with 2 daughters. Fidaa' accepted Jesus as her Savior before Christmas. After her family learned about her faith, she was beaten and prevented from visiting the church. Her father restricts all of her movements outside the home. Please pray the Lord comforts and sustains Fidaa' in the midst of her circumstances. Pray that she is not overly tempted to give-up her faith, but to grow in her trust in the Lord Jesus.
These new friends in the faith that are named above are joined by many others, all of which are receiving occasional or frequent contact for Bible study by telephone or in person. Continue to pray for Khalid, a renewed believer for over 1 year, challenged by his wife's Islamic faith, and for "Sheik Anees" living in fear as a secret believer. Pray also for the many others like Jawad, Muhammed, Waleed and his wife Flavia, who are seeking to grow in faith, as well as the many seekers we meet in the street. Yermo (our Finnish ministry worker) left Israel, but continues to faithfully stand with us. Keep praying for one Arab volunteer from the church to help us regularly in the street. Thank you for your support in prayer. The Table Ministry is grateful to God for every form of encouragement and financial gift.
CMA/Table Ministry
P.O. Box 50
Jerusalem 91000
Israel
Is Redeemer Presbyterian Church NYC Christian?
Well, after receiving this email on the spiritual formation classes offered at Redeemer Presbyterian Church where Tim Keller is pastor in NYC, I have to say that it would be a stretch to call this place "Christian"! It seems the news of the teachings at Redeemer just keep getting worse. And the days gone in this church of teaching the Good News of Jesus unadulterated?
--------------------------------
Dwayna,
I was just looking through a file folder of things I had printed out a year ago this month when I first researched what Redeemer church was teaching and who Tim Keller was after reading parts of the book Ministries of Mercy. I just looked at the web site and saw that this is still posted on it under the prayer resources. I will copy a few things from the web site. It is interesting to read it again since I now know more of why this is so dangerous for Christians to be doing this.
http://www.redeemer.com/connect/prayer/prayer_johnson_article.html
Meditation: Not So Mysterious
Two ways to move Scripture off the page and into your life
by Jan Johnson
Ever get sick and tired of old habits that won't go away? You find yourself whining when you should be grateful. You trash someone in your mind when you should care about his needs. You feel lazy when there are so many exciting things to do. What does it take to have the heart of Christ, to obey the commands that seem so difficult?
Trying to be good doesn't work because such efforts are about us, not about Christ. What works better is connecting with God in deeper ways that allow God to "[work] in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" (Phil. 2:13).
Spiritual Exercises
One of the best-known ways to ponder God's character, works, and ways is a format originated by Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. Loyola's methods, recorded in his book Spiritual Exercises, have been used for hundreds of years. He urged people to enter into Scripture with all five senses: sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell.
(Lectio Divina is also listed on this page)
Danger Ahead?
Some evangelical Christians are wary of meditation because it's practiced in other religions. But it's important to remember that Christians do not meditate the same way that practitioners of Eastern religions do. The goals are different. In Eastern religions, participants empty their minds and fill them with nothing. In Christianity, we seek to surrender our hurried to-do lists, our worry about today's appointments, and our obsession with what others think of us and focus instead upon the words and images of Scripture.
Other Christians object to using the imagination in meditation. But since I read Richard Foster's words about "sanctifying the imagination" many years ago, I've asked God to purify my imagination along with my heart, mind, and will. Isn't it wiser to give the imagination to God to be retrained than to ignore it? If we don't, our imagination finds entertainment of its own and gets us into trouble. When activated by the images and truths of Scripture, the imagination supports the penetrating Word of God's ability to become active in our lives.
------------------------
http://www.redeemer.com/connect/prayer/waiting_on_the_lord.html
Waiting on the LORD
by John Wright Follette
Silence
The Bible tells us much about waiting upon the Lord. The first meaning of the expression is silence. Prayer has been made and now the soul is hushed and, bowing in silence (in faith), it waits before God.
Our souls are too noisy. In prayer life alone see how it hinders. Our hearts are much distressed and burdened, so we go to prayer and maybe spend much time pouring out our petitions before the throne. And too many times we get up immediately, rush out of His presence and often try to answer the prayer by some efforts of our own. We do the praying but not the waiting.
Let us not be afraid to be silent before Him, thinking it is wasted time. He does not want us to be all the time talking–telling Him so many things about which He already knows more than we do. Time is needed today for proper adjustment to Him, our vision properly focused, our hearts hushed, and minds subdued. It is in the silent hour before Him, quietly waiting in His presence, that the miracle is wrought.
Watching
The third meaning of wait is to watch, observe, take notice. This means that all our spiritual senses must be alive, alert, and expectant. To wait means that we are to be near to Him and still, that we may catch the slightest intimation on His part. Our hearts are to be sensitive enough to catch the faintest reflection and be able to discern quickly His voice. The meaning is clearly shown in Prov. 8:34: "Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors." Here we have a man, maybe a servant or soldier, waiting at a door or gate. He does not know the moment his master may open the door to require his service, or maybe to give him a gift. (notice). It is not the waiting of an idler; it is not the waiting of a dreamer. It is the quiet waiting of one who is girt and ready.
We do not long watch or observe keenly the movements of God before He has some word for us. He bids us go or come on some mission, or speak, write, pray, visit, or sing for Him. Why?
Because we were near enough to feel what is on His heart, and thus we were able to enter into fellowship with Him in service. Many today do not understand the movement of God in the world as He is speaking to us in present conditions because they are not near enough or still enough to observe Him.
Such wonderful blessings, then, hang upon this one condition: to wait. And to wait upon God is to have the heart silent in an expectant attitude, to hear what He might say–that we might do His bidding.
Wait means that we are to be near to Him and still, that we may catch the slightest intimation on His part.
--------------------------------
Dwayna,
I was just looking through a file folder of things I had printed out a year ago this month when I first researched what Redeemer church was teaching and who Tim Keller was after reading parts of the book Ministries of Mercy. I just looked at the web site and saw that this is still posted on it under the prayer resources. I will copy a few things from the web site. It is interesting to read it again since I now know more of why this is so dangerous for Christians to be doing this.
http://www.redeemer.com/connect/prayer/prayer_johnson_article.html
Meditation: Not So Mysterious
Two ways to move Scripture off the page and into your life
by Jan Johnson
Ever get sick and tired of old habits that won't go away? You find yourself whining when you should be grateful. You trash someone in your mind when you should care about his needs. You feel lazy when there are so many exciting things to do. What does it take to have the heart of Christ, to obey the commands that seem so difficult?
Trying to be good doesn't work because such efforts are about us, not about Christ. What works better is connecting with God in deeper ways that allow God to "[work] in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" (Phil. 2:13).
Spiritual Exercises
One of the best-known ways to ponder God's character, works, and ways is a format originated by Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. Loyola's methods, recorded in his book Spiritual Exercises, have been used for hundreds of years. He urged people to enter into Scripture with all five senses: sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell.
(Lectio Divina is also listed on this page)
Danger Ahead?
Some evangelical Christians are wary of meditation because it's practiced in other religions. But it's important to remember that Christians do not meditate the same way that practitioners of Eastern religions do. The goals are different. In Eastern religions, participants empty their minds and fill them with nothing. In Christianity, we seek to surrender our hurried to-do lists, our worry about today's appointments, and our obsession with what others think of us and focus instead upon the words and images of Scripture.
Other Christians object to using the imagination in meditation. But since I read Richard Foster's words about "sanctifying the imagination" many years ago, I've asked God to purify my imagination along with my heart, mind, and will. Isn't it wiser to give the imagination to God to be retrained than to ignore it? If we don't, our imagination finds entertainment of its own and gets us into trouble. When activated by the images and truths of Scripture, the imagination supports the penetrating Word of God's ability to become active in our lives.
------------------------
http://www.redeemer.com/connect/prayer/waiting_on_the_lord.html
Waiting on the LORD
by John Wright Follette
Silence
The Bible tells us much about waiting upon the Lord. The first meaning of the expression is silence. Prayer has been made and now the soul is hushed and, bowing in silence (in faith), it waits before God.
Our souls are too noisy. In prayer life alone see how it hinders. Our hearts are much distressed and burdened, so we go to prayer and maybe spend much time pouring out our petitions before the throne. And too many times we get up immediately, rush out of His presence and often try to answer the prayer by some efforts of our own. We do the praying but not the waiting.
Let us not be afraid to be silent before Him, thinking it is wasted time. He does not want us to be all the time talking–telling Him so many things about which He already knows more than we do. Time is needed today for proper adjustment to Him, our vision properly focused, our hearts hushed, and minds subdued. It is in the silent hour before Him, quietly waiting in His presence, that the miracle is wrought.
Watching
The third meaning of wait is to watch, observe, take notice. This means that all our spiritual senses must be alive, alert, and expectant. To wait means that we are to be near to Him and still, that we may catch the slightest intimation on His part. Our hearts are to be sensitive enough to catch the faintest reflection and be able to discern quickly His voice. The meaning is clearly shown in Prov. 8:34: "Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors." Here we have a man, maybe a servant or soldier, waiting at a door or gate. He does not know the moment his master may open the door to require his service, or maybe to give him a gift. (notice). It is not the waiting of an idler; it is not the waiting of a dreamer. It is the quiet waiting of one who is girt and ready.
We do not long watch or observe keenly the movements of God before He has some word for us. He bids us go or come on some mission, or speak, write, pray, visit, or sing for Him. Why?
Because we were near enough to feel what is on His heart, and thus we were able to enter into fellowship with Him in service. Many today do not understand the movement of God in the world as He is speaking to us in present conditions because they are not near enough or still enough to observe Him.
Such wonderful blessings, then, hang upon this one condition: to wait. And to wait upon God is to have the heart silent in an expectant attitude, to hear what He might say–that we might do His bidding.
Wait means that we are to be near to Him and still, that we may catch the slightest intimation on His part.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Healing and Obedience is a Process
This is excellent from Jayson Graves, my friend with a full time counseling ministry to those struggling with gender identity confusion, pornography, cross-dressing, sexual addiction, and same-sex attractions. Jayson is now married with two beautiful children. I plan to attend the conference linked below with our witnessing team in Boulder.
HOPE in the Healing Process
Wouldn't it be nice if we could just pray a prayer to have God press some magic button in the sky and all our troubles would be taken care of? In fact, have you ever seen the recent "Easy button" commercials on TV? My favorite one is the ancient Asian warrior sitting on his horse with an army charging hard at him. As the army gets closer and closer he sits calmly on his horse with an ornate little wooden box on his lap. Just as the army is about to reach him, he opens the box and a red button with the word "Easy" on it is revealed. He presses this easy button and all of a sudden, a wall comes up out of the ground...but the wall comes up behind him!
Magic Button vs. a Process
I think this is part of the reason God doesn't use magic buttons: in our humanity, we'd probably find a way to mess things up. But more importantly, as I've found in my own journey of reaching out to God for help, He likes to use a process to help us grow. Why? Well, God is a relational God. He's a God who chooses to walk with us through a problem rather than just zap it away. This is how he gets Glory-by making his strength perfect in our weaknesses and then using that glory to draw people unto himself, just like he used his glory to draw you and me to him when we were saved.
Healing-Body, Mind & Spirit
So, we have a choice: continue with our magical thinking, praying that all too familiar prayer that sounds something like "God, will you please take this issue away from me?" or choosing to partner with him in the healing process. What do I mean by partnering? Well, prayer is important, but it's not the only resource God gives us for the healing journey. Yes, it's important to prayerfully ask God each day to partner with us at the beginning of the day and prayerfully thank him for how he did help us each day at the end. But the bible says we're created with more than just a spirit so we need more than just spiritual answers. We are to 'be sanctified body, mind and spirit" as it says in first Thessalonians 5:23.
Accepting that biblical reality can be the first step towards a more holistic healing-a healing that's characterized by solutions for the body, for the mind and heart as well as for the spirit. We can begin to explore and realize the positive benefits of things like physical exercise and appropriate physical affirmation like hugs from friends. We can learn about and employ techniques for controlling our mind and caring for our feelings and emotions. In this way, we're not only experiencing fullness in life which lends to a better context for healing but we're honoring the way that God created us: with a body, mind and spirit.
Connecting your life
Now it's important that we get some support and accountability in this process so connecting with a therapist and a group can only help the partnership. A therapist can be God's vessel of healing in helping to expose things like unhealthy life patterns, family issues and flawed coping methods and function as an advocate or guide, giving us perspective, objectivity and feedback as well as ideas and things to try.
A good group where people are committed to showing up, being real by putting their cards on the table and telling each other the truth in love is also part of the partnership God uses. In his book "Healing Is A Choice," my friend Steve Arterburn identifies one of the key healing choices we can make as the choice to connect our life. Connecting with others is like letting God use people as "Jesus with skin on" in our lives. So, don't be afraid: put your life in the light and see what God can do! In James 5:16 He promises us that when we confess our sins to each other, we're healed. We need him for forgiveness and we need the people he sends us for healing.
Well, I trust this helps you and brings you hope! Remember, partnering with God in the healing process involves abandoning magical ways of thinking, dealing with our struggles body, mind and spirit and connecting with others in accountability for help. So get real and get plugged-in and don't forget: If thousands of people in recovery like me can live in victory with God's help and the help of other warriors, so can you, my friend!
"HOPE...as BIG as Texas!" Retreat registration begins!
We are delighted to announce that next year's Healing for the Soul retreat... "HOPE...as BIG as Texas!" ...will be held May 1st through 3rd at St. Malo Retreat Center near Estes Park Colorado! So, bring your group, bring your spouse or bring a friend! ***Click on the "HOPE" brochure cover for the registration page and if you need help or more info, Call Shelly at 719-590-7685:
The Blazing Grace Show: ***Check out the Show Page*** The archives page is back up so listen to the newest shows below there or on iTunes: January 06, 2009 - Marriage: What Really is It?January 06, 2009 - Healing that Father Wound: Empathy & ReconciliationDecember 22, 2008 - Recovery & Goal- setting for 2009December 22, 2008 - True Masculinity - Part 2December 13, 2008 - Lust - Part 1 December 13, 2008 - Masculinity: What it is and What it's Not - Part 1
Quick Links: HFTS Bookstore...(Resource of the Month: This is your Brain on Joy, by Dr. Earl Henslin)Get the IINTERNET ACCOUNTABILITY rated #1 by Consumer Reports
Need a GROUP? Check out our Teleconference Groups for men, for wives and for parents.
Have you seen Jayson's testimony on "PurePassion" TV?
-----------
Comment on this post:
HOPE in the Healing Process
Wouldn't it be nice if we could just pray a prayer to have God press some magic button in the sky and all our troubles would be taken care of? In fact, have you ever seen the recent "Easy button" commercials on TV? My favorite one is the ancient Asian warrior sitting on his horse with an army charging hard at him. As the army gets closer and closer he sits calmly on his horse with an ornate little wooden box on his lap. Just as the army is about to reach him, he opens the box and a red button with the word "Easy" on it is revealed. He presses this easy button and all of a sudden, a wall comes up out of the ground...but the wall comes up behind him!
Magic Button vs. a Process
I think this is part of the reason God doesn't use magic buttons: in our humanity, we'd probably find a way to mess things up. But more importantly, as I've found in my own journey of reaching out to God for help, He likes to use a process to help us grow. Why? Well, God is a relational God. He's a God who chooses to walk with us through a problem rather than just zap it away. This is how he gets Glory-by making his strength perfect in our weaknesses and then using that glory to draw people unto himself, just like he used his glory to draw you and me to him when we were saved.
Healing-Body, Mind & Spirit
So, we have a choice: continue with our magical thinking, praying that all too familiar prayer that sounds something like "God, will you please take this issue away from me?" or choosing to partner with him in the healing process. What do I mean by partnering? Well, prayer is important, but it's not the only resource God gives us for the healing journey. Yes, it's important to prayerfully ask God each day to partner with us at the beginning of the day and prayerfully thank him for how he did help us each day at the end. But the bible says we're created with more than just a spirit so we need more than just spiritual answers. We are to 'be sanctified body, mind and spirit" as it says in first Thessalonians 5:23.
Accepting that biblical reality can be the first step towards a more holistic healing-a healing that's characterized by solutions for the body, for the mind and heart as well as for the spirit. We can begin to explore and realize the positive benefits of things like physical exercise and appropriate physical affirmation like hugs from friends. We can learn about and employ techniques for controlling our mind and caring for our feelings and emotions. In this way, we're not only experiencing fullness in life which lends to a better context for healing but we're honoring the way that God created us: with a body, mind and spirit.
Connecting your life
Now it's important that we get some support and accountability in this process so connecting with a therapist and a group can only help the partnership. A therapist can be God's vessel of healing in helping to expose things like unhealthy life patterns, family issues and flawed coping methods and function as an advocate or guide, giving us perspective, objectivity and feedback as well as ideas and things to try.
A good group where people are committed to showing up, being real by putting their cards on the table and telling each other the truth in love is also part of the partnership God uses. In his book "Healing Is A Choice," my friend Steve Arterburn identifies one of the key healing choices we can make as the choice to connect our life. Connecting with others is like letting God use people as "Jesus with skin on" in our lives. So, don't be afraid: put your life in the light and see what God can do! In James 5:16 He promises us that when we confess our sins to each other, we're healed. We need him for forgiveness and we need the people he sends us for healing.
Well, I trust this helps you and brings you hope! Remember, partnering with God in the healing process involves abandoning magical ways of thinking, dealing with our struggles body, mind and spirit and connecting with others in accountability for help. So get real and get plugged-in and don't forget: If thousands of people in recovery like me can live in victory with God's help and the help of other warriors, so can you, my friend!
"HOPE...as BIG as Texas!" Retreat registration begins!
We are delighted to announce that next year's Healing for the Soul retreat... "HOPE...as BIG as Texas!" ...will be held May 1st through 3rd at St. Malo Retreat Center near Estes Park Colorado! So, bring your group, bring your spouse or bring a friend! ***Click on the "HOPE" brochure cover for the registration page and if you need help or more info, Call Shelly at 719-590-7685:
The Blazing Grace Show: ***Check out the Show Page*** The archives page is back up so listen to the newest shows below there or on iTunes: January 06, 2009 - Marriage: What Really is It?January 06, 2009 - Healing that Father Wound: Empathy & ReconciliationDecember 22, 2008 - Recovery & Goal- setting for 2009December 22, 2008 - True Masculinity - Part 2December 13, 2008 - Lust - Part 1 December 13, 2008 - Masculinity: What it is and What it's Not - Part 1
Quick Links: HFTS Bookstore...(Resource of the Month: This is your Brain on Joy, by Dr. Earl Henslin)Get the IINTERNET ACCOUNTABILITY rated #1 by Consumer Reports
Need a GROUP? Check out our Teleconference Groups for men, for wives and for parents.
Have you seen Jayson's testimony on "PurePassion" TV?
-----------
Comment on this post:
Dear Dwayna,
It isn't just homosexuals who wish for a magic button. My most besetting sin is anger. My first summer as a believer, I thought the Lord had permanently taken it away from me. But as the years ground on--let's say He's given me opportunities to apply His Word conscientiously--to discipline myself to godliness (1 Tim 4:7)--rather than being holy by just falling off a log.
It isn't just homosexuals who wish for a magic button. My most besetting sin is anger. My first summer as a believer, I thought the Lord had permanently taken it away from me. But as the years ground on--let's say He's given me opportunities to apply His Word conscientiously--to discipline myself to godliness (1 Tim 4:7)--rather than being holy by just falling off a log.
Happy Valentine's Day!
I have had such a great day. I did last year, too. I think it is a shame when any Christian feels lonely on Valentine's Day. Our days are in God's hands, and He has a timing for every perfect gift...
Earlier today, I overheard an attractive woman talking on her cell phone saying, "I know it's Valentine's Day! I don't want to hear anything else about it. This is the worst Valentine's Day ever! I am all alone, and I hate hearing about Valentine's Day...!"
You know, honestly, I don't feel lonely at all. God gets all of the credit for this (as I am determined to live for Him), but there is rarely a week that goes by that some stranger does not ask me out; I could definitely have a boyfriend now or be married. I am "alone" this Valentine's Day by choice. Last year a few men came along, who said they were Christians, and I really, really liked them. It was exciting! However, they did not want to date me if I was not willing to sin against God with them. Evidently, there are two kinds of "Christians"--those who want to obey the Bible and those who don't. :-) I am the type who does. Sinning is not worth it to me. They left me, but it was because of my love for Jesus. I am not ashamed of that, and I won't apologize, and I certainly don't feel lonely. Yes, it hurt, but those men were not from God for my life, so it was a blessing they left! I could definitely be with someone on Valentine's Day, but I am waiting by choice on the right person who understands me in the Lord, and it will be someone I love inside out. People often ask, "Why are you not married?" I want to ask them, "Have you seen what is out there? Do you know of good looking, single, impressive men who want to live for Jesus? They are so rare, I have yet to meet one for marriage!" I have learned to be happy in my work and life, and I have certainly no need for someone to come along and make me happy on Valentine's Day. I am already happy!
The reason I am discussing this on the blog is to let everyone know that living a life in Jesus is the best! He fills my heart with joy! I cannot know Him and serve Him apart from purity, so I have made the decision to wait on someone from Him who wants to obey the Bible, too. I don't want anything or anyone outside of the context of obedience to the Bible. This means that the Lord will have someone for me--someone He has picked out--who loves Him, too, and wants to obey and have a love led by the Holy Spirit and pure love. If I cannot have that, I won't get married. I am certain, that when God is ready, He will bring me such a person. Until then, I am not lonely, and I have certainly had a great day today!
I have never been happier in a place. It really reminds me of how I felt when I first moved to NYC. I was so happy and so at home. I feel the same way about Atlanta. I never leave Buckhead, because everything I need in Atlanta is right here. I am still moving in and getting settled, and I won't even have the Internet until next Friday in my condo. After NYC, everything seems so "new". God has given me the most beauitful condo I have ever seen with a spectacular view of downtown Atlanta. I must add once again that I am saving 1500.00 month in rent from NYC!
This move was a surprise, but God has confirmed every step of it. He gives every perfect gift in His timing, and I would not trade one day of feeling Him near for any earthly pleasure. I am thankful for His love today and for the love of friends and family in Jesus. God thrills my heart as I study His word and His love for me, and He draws me near...and my heart can want for nothing!
Yep, it is a happy Valentine's Day!
Earlier today, I overheard an attractive woman talking on her cell phone saying, "I know it's Valentine's Day! I don't want to hear anything else about it. This is the worst Valentine's Day ever! I am all alone, and I hate hearing about Valentine's Day...!"
You know, honestly, I don't feel lonely at all. God gets all of the credit for this (as I am determined to live for Him), but there is rarely a week that goes by that some stranger does not ask me out; I could definitely have a boyfriend now or be married. I am "alone" this Valentine's Day by choice. Last year a few men came along, who said they were Christians, and I really, really liked them. It was exciting! However, they did not want to date me if I was not willing to sin against God with them. Evidently, there are two kinds of "Christians"--those who want to obey the Bible and those who don't. :-) I am the type who does. Sinning is not worth it to me. They left me, but it was because of my love for Jesus. I am not ashamed of that, and I won't apologize, and I certainly don't feel lonely. Yes, it hurt, but those men were not from God for my life, so it was a blessing they left! I could definitely be with someone on Valentine's Day, but I am waiting by choice on the right person who understands me in the Lord, and it will be someone I love inside out. People often ask, "Why are you not married?" I want to ask them, "Have you seen what is out there? Do you know of good looking, single, impressive men who want to live for Jesus? They are so rare, I have yet to meet one for marriage!" I have learned to be happy in my work and life, and I have certainly no need for someone to come along and make me happy on Valentine's Day. I am already happy!
The reason I am discussing this on the blog is to let everyone know that living a life in Jesus is the best! He fills my heart with joy! I cannot know Him and serve Him apart from purity, so I have made the decision to wait on someone from Him who wants to obey the Bible, too. I don't want anything or anyone outside of the context of obedience to the Bible. This means that the Lord will have someone for me--someone He has picked out--who loves Him, too, and wants to obey and have a love led by the Holy Spirit and pure love. If I cannot have that, I won't get married. I am certain, that when God is ready, He will bring me such a person. Until then, I am not lonely, and I have certainly had a great day today!
I have never been happier in a place. It really reminds me of how I felt when I first moved to NYC. I was so happy and so at home. I feel the same way about Atlanta. I never leave Buckhead, because everything I need in Atlanta is right here. I am still moving in and getting settled, and I won't even have the Internet until next Friday in my condo. After NYC, everything seems so "new". God has given me the most beauitful condo I have ever seen with a spectacular view of downtown Atlanta. I must add once again that I am saving 1500.00 month in rent from NYC!
This move was a surprise, but God has confirmed every step of it. He gives every perfect gift in His timing, and I would not trade one day of feeling Him near for any earthly pleasure. I am thankful for His love today and for the love of friends and family in Jesus. God thrills my heart as I study His word and His love for me, and He draws me near...and my heart can want for nothing!
Yep, it is a happy Valentine's Day!
Hebrew Roots Movement Misses Again
Matthew 24:36 debunks this scam. The Bible clearly teaches that no one will know the time of the Lord's return. Here again, we see Hebrew Roots followers putting more emphasis on the feasts than on Jesus...
-------------------------------------------------------
Biltz emphasizes that these feasts, described in Leviticus, were not intended for the Jewish people alone. They are repeatedly referred to in the Bible as "the Lord's feasts" – meaning they are for all people. They are meant to be observed as well as to serve as signs of the times in which we live – reminders of the greatest events of the past and foreshadowings of the future to come.
Biltz says much of the church is asleep – unaware of the significance of the feasts in God's holy time clock. The feasts were not intended to be abandoned by believers after the coming of Jesus. His followers observed them in the First Century. It's time to rediscover them again as the hour of His return approaches.
"Just as the spring feasts were the dress rehearsals for Messiah's first coming, the fall feasts are the dress rehearsals for His Second Coming," says Biltz, a Hebraic roots teacher.
The video series pinpoints the specific day on the Hebrew calendar for the return of Jesus. The only unknown, according to Biltz, is which year that return will occur – though he makes the case it is very near.
Biltz says most of the church is unaware of this very specific prophetic time clock offered by God to the human race in the Bible. Because of this, he believes many Christians will be surprised rather than watching with anticipation and hope, as the Bible commands.
"I think most believers will be stunned by what they see in The Feasts of the Lord teachings," says Joseph Farah, who produced the two-DVD set. "Their faith will be renewed or heightened to new limits. These are powerful videos – unlike anything ever produced before."
-------------------------------------------------------
New Video Series on 'Feasts of the Lord' Makes a Bold Prediction Click Here toOrder Now Would you like to know the specific day of the Lord's return? Pastor Mark Biltz of El Shaddai Ministries believes he knows – the exact day, if not the specific year. It is laid out in a series of two DVD teachings produced by WND Videos called The Feasts of the Lord. The spring feasts – or appointed times – were fulfilled by the first coming, ministry, death and resurrection of Yeshua, the Hebrew name of Jesus, which means "Salvation," explains Biltz. The fall feasts will be fulfilled by His Second Coming – in the very near future, he relates in an engaging, informative and entertaining series of teachings you will want to watch again and again and share with your friends, relatives and fellow believers.
Biltz emphasizes that these feasts, described in Leviticus, were not intended for the Jewish people alone. They are repeatedly referred to in the Bible as "the Lord's feasts" – meaning they are for all people. They are meant to be observed as well as to serve as signs of the times in which we live – reminders of the greatest events of the past and foreshadowings of the future to come.
Biltz says much of the church is asleep – unaware of the significance of the feasts in God's holy time clock. The feasts were not intended to be abandoned by believers after the coming of Jesus. His followers observed them in the First Century. It's time to rediscover them again as the hour of His return approaches.
"Just as the spring feasts were the dress rehearsals for Messiah's first coming, the fall feasts are the dress rehearsals for His Second Coming," says Biltz, a Hebraic roots teacher.
The video series pinpoints the specific day on the Hebrew calendar for the return of Jesus. The only unknown, according to Biltz, is which year that return will occur – though he makes the case it is very near.
Biltz says most of the church is unaware of this very specific prophetic time clock offered by God to the human race in the Bible. Because of this, he believes many Christians will be surprised rather than watching with anticipation and hope, as the Bible commands.
"I think most believers will be stunned by what they see in The Feasts of the Lord teachings," says Joseph Farah, who produced the two-DVD set. "Their faith will be renewed or heightened to new limits. These are powerful videos – unlike anything ever produced before."
Friday, February 13, 2009
Testing the Spirits at St. John The Divine Cathedral
Well, St. John was not divine, and neither is the popular tourist attraction in NYC. It could be more aptly called "St. John The Demonic Cathedral" according to the symbolic archetecture and teachings...
http://vigilantcitizen.com/?p=241
(I was sent this article after I toured this cathedral over a year ago in New York. Tony has done excellent research on the meaning of the Freemason, gothic symbols found throughout this cathedral.)
Testing the spirits... (1 John 4:1),
Dwayna
http://vigilantcitizen.com/?p=241
(I was sent this article after I toured this cathedral over a year ago in New York. Tony has done excellent research on the meaning of the Freemason, gothic symbols found throughout this cathedral.)
Testing the spirits... (1 John 4:1),
Dwayna
More Against "Christian Evolution"
The following essay is excellent from Daniel Mann. The oxymoron of "Christian evolution" is spreading like wildfire in seeker-friendly forums such as the popular Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC. The other day, here in Atlanta, I overheard a man teaching his daughter while standing behind me in line, that the Genesis account agrees with Darwin. I kept waiting and praying silently as I stood there, asking God to make it clear as to whether or not I was meant to speak to the man. As we stood still waiting in line, there was no stopping this man in his attempt to indoctrinate his daughter to believe in Christian evolution. He even said that Abraham Lincoln would have had much in common with Darwin. That was all I could take, since I had studied the quotes from Lincoln. I very nicely turned around and commented, "I have studied American history, and, actually, Abraham Lincoln declared a national day of fasting for this country, calling for people to go to their churches to pray in humility to the God of the Bible. He had a healthy fear of the God of the Bible according to history. Darwin did not." The man answered, "Which Bible?" I said, "The Holy Bible." He continued, "There is more than one version and intepretation of Genesis." I realized once again that pastors like Tim Keller have only made it more challenging for apologists. I said, "Either people were made in God's image with the capacity of writing symphonies and solving chemistry equations, higher than the animals, or they were not. Darwin, a British naturalist, would put people on the level of animals, which means his origin of species came from a god who was somewhat monkey-like." I smiled, and that was the end of the conversation. As I walked off, the man added, "There is more than one interpretation of Genesis." What else is new? Satan has been offering a different "interpretation" since the beginning of time.
What enters us is so crucial to our health, that God has installed a built-in spam-virus-detection system. When we entertain the wrong teachings or thoughts, the virus-alarm goes off. Our conscience may administer a good brow-beating or we may simply experience a mild dose of cognitive dissonance—the mental discomfort resulting when we embrace two opposing beliefs.
Here’s some examples. When we believe both the Genesis account that God’s creation was “very good” (Gen. 1:31) and Darwin’s account that it was a bloody mess from the beginning, we are going to experience some mental unease until we resolve the conflict. One belief has to be modified. We can’t serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). One will eventually predominate.
This is like the person who believes that he should forgive, yet refuses to forgive. He will be tormented until he either forgives or convinces himself that the Bible gives him a loophole. But loopholes can make hypocrites out of us. The hypocrites of Jesus’ day believed in divine healing, but yet took issue with Jesus when He healed. They justified their obvious hypocrisy by blaming Jesus for healing on the Sabbath (Luke 13:10-17).
Often, we’re not aware that are holding conflicting beliefs. We profess that God will take care of us, but hidden thoughts of distrust remain. Mental dissonance and obsessional thinking alert us to this underlying virus. For weeks I was tormented by dis-ease until the Lord revealed to me that I was failing to entrust my teaching to Him. Once He reminded me of my distrust, I immediately began to experience relief (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Dissonance comes wrapped in many different packages. Sometimes it’s strictly theological. We believe that salvation is a free gift, and at the same time believe that we have to be a good person to deserve or earn it. This conflict carries a double-whammy: the mental discomfort and also the added curse of infecting the foundation of everything else we believe about God and consequently our relationship with Him. Peace can only be achieved by reconciling the conflict, understanding that our good works are a result and not a cause of salvation.
As God gives us pain to instruct us to pull our hand out of the fire, He has also given us mental unrest to provoke us to seek freedom from it. Several years ago, I accused a pastor of teaching wrongly. However, I went too far and also accused him of purposely perverting Biblical truth. It wasn’t enough to simply confess my sin to God. I also had to confess it to that pastor. Only afterwards would the unease begin to go away.
Some of us torment ourselves by embracing views that we know are unbiblical. We are drawn to trust in God through His Word and yet also insist that unbiblical sexual practice is acceptable. However, we can only hold both positions at the great cost of experiencing continuous unease or hardening our heart against it. But when we erect this wall against feeling, we also erect it against God.
Perhaps we experience the most common and destructive form double-mindedness when we believe “Jesus died for my sins,” but also believe that others can find their own way to God through their own belief systems. When we try to hold both of these believes, we proclaim a death sentence on our faith. If there are other ways to God, then the Cross was unnecessary.
Experiencing peace isn’t possible without establishing peace and harmony among our beliefs. If our thought-life is unstable, so too our emotional life! Consequently, we can only have one Master, one organizing principle, one truth calling all the shots, and this truth is Christ Himself:
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Cor. 10:5)
Daniel Mann
challengingthedarkness@yahoo.com
What enters us is so crucial to our health, that God has installed a built-in spam-virus-detection system. When we entertain the wrong teachings or thoughts, the virus-alarm goes off. Our conscience may administer a good brow-beating or we may simply experience a mild dose of cognitive dissonance—the mental discomfort resulting when we embrace two opposing beliefs.
Here’s some examples. When we believe both the Genesis account that God’s creation was “very good” (Gen. 1:31) and Darwin’s account that it was a bloody mess from the beginning, we are going to experience some mental unease until we resolve the conflict. One belief has to be modified. We can’t serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). One will eventually predominate.
This is like the person who believes that he should forgive, yet refuses to forgive. He will be tormented until he either forgives or convinces himself that the Bible gives him a loophole. But loopholes can make hypocrites out of us. The hypocrites of Jesus’ day believed in divine healing, but yet took issue with Jesus when He healed. They justified their obvious hypocrisy by blaming Jesus for healing on the Sabbath (Luke 13:10-17).
Often, we’re not aware that are holding conflicting beliefs. We profess that God will take care of us, but hidden thoughts of distrust remain. Mental dissonance and obsessional thinking alert us to this underlying virus. For weeks I was tormented by dis-ease until the Lord revealed to me that I was failing to entrust my teaching to Him. Once He reminded me of my distrust, I immediately began to experience relief (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Dissonance comes wrapped in many different packages. Sometimes it’s strictly theological. We believe that salvation is a free gift, and at the same time believe that we have to be a good person to deserve or earn it. This conflict carries a double-whammy: the mental discomfort and also the added curse of infecting the foundation of everything else we believe about God and consequently our relationship with Him. Peace can only be achieved by reconciling the conflict, understanding that our good works are a result and not a cause of salvation.
As God gives us pain to instruct us to pull our hand out of the fire, He has also given us mental unrest to provoke us to seek freedom from it. Several years ago, I accused a pastor of teaching wrongly. However, I went too far and also accused him of purposely perverting Biblical truth. It wasn’t enough to simply confess my sin to God. I also had to confess it to that pastor. Only afterwards would the unease begin to go away.
Some of us torment ourselves by embracing views that we know are unbiblical. We are drawn to trust in God through His Word and yet also insist that unbiblical sexual practice is acceptable. However, we can only hold both positions at the great cost of experiencing continuous unease or hardening our heart against it. But when we erect this wall against feeling, we also erect it against God.
Perhaps we experience the most common and destructive form double-mindedness when we believe “Jesus died for my sins,” but also believe that others can find their own way to God through their own belief systems. When we try to hold both of these believes, we proclaim a death sentence on our faith. If there are other ways to God, then the Cross was unnecessary.
Experiencing peace isn’t possible without establishing peace and harmony among our beliefs. If our thought-life is unstable, so too our emotional life! Consequently, we can only have one Master, one organizing principle, one truth calling all the shots, and this truth is Christ Himself:
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Cor. 10:5)
Daniel Mann
challengingthedarkness@yahoo.com
Thursday, February 12, 2009
"Sex Talk" with the Pastor...Continues
John MacArthur (pastor of Grace Community Church where this ministry began) takes Mark Driscoll to task in this article: http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29852
Getting Settled in Atlanta
I love this place! I think I am finally home. I didn't even like NYC more. I am so thankful for all God has done that I don't know how to thank Him! He really does give us the desires of our heart in His timing, His way. I am a city girl, and I love the South, too, so Atlanta seems like the perfect fit. I want to thank the people who have given extra to help with the move. The moving company ended up charging me more than expected to take me from my condo to the storage unit, about 3 miles away. It was an ordeal yesterday, and I am thankful that it did not rain with the high winds, which would have made moving in a lot harder.
In just a little over 24 hours, I have managed to unpack all of my boxes in the condo I am renting. I can't describe how much work is ahead for tonight before hitting the bed! I am working very steadily, because there is so much work to do with LTW.
After I get somewhat organized and settled, I plan to work on two projects:
1) getting "LTW in Church" off the ground with Sevier Heights Baptist by sending them articles and sermons by Walter Martin to equip Christians on how to reach people in other religions. This will be our first "LTW in Church" location with a table of apologetics set up at the church for church members. This is a dream come true, so I am excited about seeing this ministry taking place as soon as possible!
2) creating a slide show/DVD for churches to be shown at Theta Baptist, West Franklin Baptist, Sevier Heights Baptist and First Baptist Morristown. This will take many hours of work. But it has to be done as soon as possible. God has provided someone who has offered to help us for free get the correct format for this slide show to be a DVD, which is something we have never had before with our slides. All of our ministry locations need to be included, which is something else I have never compiled. It will be a joy to do this but a lot of work. After it is done, the slide show will be shown in churches (in March) when I go to share my testimony and give up dates on our outreaches in LTW, domestically and abroad.
I will get an email update sent out to ministry prayer partners as soon as possible. I plan to call the cable company tomorrow and schedule a time to get the wireless Internet hooked up in my unit. I am writing from a coffee shop tonight, before heading back home to get more work done in the condo.
Learning more and more that trusting Him in obedience ALWAYS pays off,
Dwayna
In just a little over 24 hours, I have managed to unpack all of my boxes in the condo I am renting. I can't describe how much work is ahead for tonight before hitting the bed! I am working very steadily, because there is so much work to do with LTW.
After I get somewhat organized and settled, I plan to work on two projects:
1) getting "LTW in Church" off the ground with Sevier Heights Baptist by sending them articles and sermons by Walter Martin to equip Christians on how to reach people in other religions. This will be our first "LTW in Church" location with a table of apologetics set up at the church for church members. This is a dream come true, so I am excited about seeing this ministry taking place as soon as possible!
2) creating a slide show/DVD for churches to be shown at Theta Baptist, West Franklin Baptist, Sevier Heights Baptist and First Baptist Morristown. This will take many hours of work. But it has to be done as soon as possible. God has provided someone who has offered to help us for free get the correct format for this slide show to be a DVD, which is something we have never had before with our slides. All of our ministry locations need to be included, which is something else I have never compiled. It will be a joy to do this but a lot of work. After it is done, the slide show will be shown in churches (in March) when I go to share my testimony and give up dates on our outreaches in LTW, domestically and abroad.
I will get an email update sent out to ministry prayer partners as soon as possible. I plan to call the cable company tomorrow and schedule a time to get the wireless Internet hooked up in my unit. I am writing from a coffee shop tonight, before heading back home to get more work done in the condo.
Learning more and more that trusting Him in obedience ALWAYS pays off,
Dwayna
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
OH, HAPPY DAY IN JESUS!
Who says that following God in a life of obedience to the Bible does not pay off? Yes, it is costly, but HE IS WORTH IT!! He is able to do exceedingly, abundantly beyond all that we can ask and think in Jesus. I am reminded today that there is a reason so many Bible verses talk about waiting on the Lord. We have to wait on him, when sin is waiting around every corner beckoning us to run to it. By God's grace, I have learned to stay close to Him during those times and wait. Through uncomfortable feelings, He never leaves. He matures us and makes us stronger, as we lean on His Word during those times. It is only as I look back that I see all He has done to make me stronger in areas where I used to be weak. And, He is not done yet! (I don't mean to diminish suffering. It does hurt to follow Him. So often, I am ostracized by the lost and "Christians" for living for Jesus--it would be fine with them if I only went to church on Sunday, but obedience? That Light is too bright. Well, I can only thank Jesus for living in me, because the Light certainly comes from the Holy Spirit and the light of God's precious and pure Word, not myself.)
He sure is faithful. Today I am moving into the most beautiful place I have ever had. So many men have come along who have offered me nice things, but they wanted me to sin with them. It has reminded me of how when Jesus was tempted by Satan, that Great Deceiver said, "I'll give you the whole world if you will just worship me."
Well, I have kept waiting on God, trusting Him...and all along He had the surprise of this condo I am renting in Atlanta, which is a savings of a whopping 1,500.00 per month from what I was paying in NYC. GOD IS SO GOOD TO ME, and when He gives us gifts in context of our obedience and purity, He gets all of the glory. In the life of a Christian, that is the best place to be! I have found out that obedience to the Bible is the only way I can be "me." I was just never saved to live any other way.
My heart is so full of joy and thanksgiving I don't know how to begin to thank Him today. But, then again, isn't that like our wonderful Savior? When we wait on Him, He gives us our heart's desire. The good news is He changes our heart and desires to become more like His. And, when we are more like Him, we sure do become better.
How can I thank Him? I will just keep living for Him and ask Him to keep me close. Even the closeness to the Lord is a gift--a gift for which I never, ever want to take for granted.
"As for me the nearness of God is my good. I have made the Lord God my refuge that I may tell of Your great works." Psalm 73:28
He sure is faithful. Today I am moving into the most beautiful place I have ever had. So many men have come along who have offered me nice things, but they wanted me to sin with them. It has reminded me of how when Jesus was tempted by Satan, that Great Deceiver said, "I'll give you the whole world if you will just worship me."
Well, I have kept waiting on God, trusting Him...and all along He had the surprise of this condo I am renting in Atlanta, which is a savings of a whopping 1,500.00 per month from what I was paying in NYC. GOD IS SO GOOD TO ME, and when He gives us gifts in context of our obedience and purity, He gets all of the glory. In the life of a Christian, that is the best place to be! I have found out that obedience to the Bible is the only way I can be "me." I was just never saved to live any other way.
My heart is so full of joy and thanksgiving I don't know how to begin to thank Him today. But, then again, isn't that like our wonderful Savior? When we wait on Him, He gives us our heart's desire. The good news is He changes our heart and desires to become more like His. And, when we are more like Him, we sure do become better.
How can I thank Him? I will just keep living for Him and ask Him to keep me close. Even the closeness to the Lord is a gift--a gift for which I never, ever want to take for granted.
"As for me the nearness of God is my good. I have made the Lord God my refuge that I may tell of Your great works." Psalm 73:28
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
First Lady Gets Tribal Welcome
Below is an email I received on the article: First Lady Gets Tribal Welcome...
Dwayna,
I know the First lady isn't the President, but this news item illustrates why I could never be President. I would ask so many questions about the ceremony to ascertain whether demons were involved that I would be thought socially cloddish. If, as the article says, "the song and shawl were to give [the First Lady] 'strength and courage and duration through her tenure and beyond,'" it surely sounds as though demonic magic is involved. (I'm not very PC, am I?)
This isn't to fault the Obamas in particular: the same would be expected of any administration. By the time anyone gets to that height of power, he or she has already made compromises with the evil one. But suppose a believer ever got there: would he or she be able to say, "I cannot do that: it violates my relationship with Christ"?
In Him,
Doc
Dwayna,
I know the First lady isn't the President, but this news item illustrates why I could never be President. I would ask so many questions about the ceremony to ascertain whether demons were involved that I would be thought socially cloddish. If, as the article says, "the song and shawl were to give [the First Lady] 'strength and courage and duration through her tenure and beyond,'" it surely sounds as though demonic magic is involved. (I'm not very PC, am I?)
This isn't to fault the Obamas in particular: the same would be expected of any administration. By the time anyone gets to that height of power, he or she has already made compromises with the evil one. But suppose a believer ever got there: would he or she be able to say, "I cannot do that: it violates my relationship with Christ"?
In Him,
Doc
Tim Keller Twisting the Truth
From the book review by Pastor Gary Gilley:
…Keller's gospel is more than the good news that Christ has come to reconcile us to God; it is also solving the world's problems of injustice, poverty and healing the troubles of this earth. He quotes N. T. Wright, not Scripture, to support his view…Later Keller makes clear what he means: "The purpose of Jesus' coming is to put the whole world right, to renew and restore the creation, not to escape it. It is not just to bring personal forgiveness and peace, but also justice and shalom to the world…. The work of the Spirit of God is not only to save souls but also to care and cultivate the face of the earth, the material world" (p. 223). Scripture knows nothing of such a gospel message. Nowhere in the New Testament will you find such a commission given to the people of God. You will, however, find a similar message in the Emergent church, N.T. Wright's New Perspective on Paul and those reviving the old "Social Gospel" agenda…
From the Eponential Conference 2008: Tim Keller session 5 here.
Tim Keller on the INCARNATION: "We don't relate to God as a person on the first floor of a building relates to a person on the second floor. We relate to God as Hamlet does to Shakespeare. Hamlet's only way to know Shakespeare is if Shakespeare writes himself into the play. God has more than written himself into the story of this world. We are His incarnation."
Tim Keller on the RESURRECTION: "Bringing justice and peace into a world of injustice. This is the core of what Easter is. Restoring the death sentence of this earth..."
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Interesting notes that an anonymous person posted on a sermon by Keller here.
A good 2 part sermon on grace regarding the church growth methods and contextualization here .
Mike Ratliff talks again about the gospel and what it is not here.
In the article there is a reference to this 3 minute video. Doesn't this sound a lot like what Keller teaches? (Click here ).
…Keller's gospel is more than the good news that Christ has come to reconcile us to God; it is also solving the world's problems of injustice, poverty and healing the troubles of this earth. He quotes N. T. Wright, not Scripture, to support his view…Later Keller makes clear what he means: "The purpose of Jesus' coming is to put the whole world right, to renew and restore the creation, not to escape it. It is not just to bring personal forgiveness and peace, but also justice and shalom to the world…. The work of the Spirit of God is not only to save souls but also to care and cultivate the face of the earth, the material world" (p. 223). Scripture knows nothing of such a gospel message. Nowhere in the New Testament will you find such a commission given to the people of God. You will, however, find a similar message in the Emergent church, N.T. Wright's New Perspective on Paul and those reviving the old "Social Gospel" agenda…
From the Eponential Conference 2008: Tim Keller session 5 here.
Tim Keller on the INCARNATION: "We don't relate to God as a person on the first floor of a building relates to a person on the second floor. We relate to God as Hamlet does to Shakespeare. Hamlet's only way to know Shakespeare is if Shakespeare writes himself into the play. God has more than written himself into the story of this world. We are His incarnation."
Tim Keller on the RESURRECTION: "Bringing justice and peace into a world of injustice. This is the core of what Easter is. Restoring the death sentence of this earth..."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interesting notes that an anonymous person posted on a sermon by Keller here.
A good 2 part sermon on grace regarding the church growth methods and contextualization here .
Mike Ratliff talks again about the gospel and what it is not here.
In the article there is a reference to this 3 minute video. Doesn't this sound a lot like what Keller teaches? (Click here ).
Monday, February 09, 2009
"Keys for Kids" Outreach in the Rio Grande Valley
I got a surprise phone call today from Glenn Nations who works with Child Evangelism in the Rio Grande Valley. We all want to work together! We spoke about true, saving faith and the importance of explaining to a child the difference, to some extent, between just praying some rote prayer and signing on a dotted line and really accepting Jesus as Savior. We are all in agreement, and Curt and Janie, the leaders, will be speaking with Glenn soon.
(Soon to come: an update with photos of our "Keys for Kids" outreach on Thursdays in the Rio Grande Valley in Harlingen, TX.)
(Soon to come: an update with photos of our "Keys for Kids" outreach on Thursdays in the Rio Grande Valley in Harlingen, TX.)
LTW Update: West Hollywood and San Diego
From former lesbian, who worked with our teams recently in CA:
I almost didn't make it to the outreach as we got our dates mixed up. However, God made a way. It was a privilege to meet two men with a heart for the lost. Tracts were laid out and signs displayed words of hope. My heart was drawn to the men I prayed for as they strolled down the sidewalk of West Hollywood. We had some good conversations with a few seekers. To others, we passed out tracts and testimonial CDs. Most men just walked on by. I left with the nagging question: What is the best way to reach them with the love of Jesus?
A few days later, I shared my testimony to a small group Sunday School class. This was my opportunity to give God the glory for His work in me, but also to educate the body of Christ regarding the need for compassion and non-judgment in ministering to the lost gay or lesbian person. I was blessed by the desire of certain ones (the San Diego Lighting the Way team) to share Jesus with the gay community."
God wove these events in with my casual work interactions to reveal His heart in answering my question – how to reach the lost. In the course of my business road trip, I had interactions with many people. I sensed God's agape love in me toward many of them.
That's it – I am “to be” Jesus to everyone I meet. I am part of the Body of Christ. A seeker generally cannot see or feel God, but they can see and feel me. I am to touch with His hands, go as with His feet, speak as with His mouth, see with His eyes, and love with His heart!
John 13:34 & 35 says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”
After He returns and gathers the nations to Him, Jesus will separate His sheep (disciples) from the goats (wicked) – Matthew 25:31-46. What is the difference between the sheep and the goats? The sheep fed, watered, housed, clothed, and visited “the least of these.” Jesus said, “Verily I say unto you, in as much as you did it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto Me.”
Luke 10:27-37 tells me that I am to love the Lord God with my of my heart, soul, strength and mind and love my neighbor as myself. He then describes who is my neighbor. A man laid wounded. The priest and Levite walked right on by. The Samaritan “SAW HIM AND HAD COMPASSION ON HIM. He went to him, bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” Jesus said, “Go, and do thou likewise.”
A person may be strong in their faith and have great knowledge of Scripture. But Paul says, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am become as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal, and though I have the gift of prophesy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have no love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, have not love, it profiteth me nothing.” I Corinthians 13:1-3
God calls me to be the conduit of His love. He gave me a good illustration the day I returned home from my trip out west. The water pipe under my home was frozen. For 2 days, I had no drinking water, couldn't take a shower nor wash my clothes. I was unclean! The cold frigid air blocked the life force, the cleansing water flow. As the temperature rose 2 days later, the warmth thawed the ice. Oh what joy, the living water flowed through. I could be refreshed and cleansed.
Jesus is the living water that brings everlasting life. It is this Spring of Living Water that all people need. How many people have I turned away from Jesus because I was cold, arrogant, and self righteous, thus blocking the Living Water? How often did I use too much salt and not enough GRACE in conversation (Colossians 4:6)?
Father, forgive me for not being Your hands and feet and not having Your heart. May I be open and warm to allow Your living water flow through me.
That's it – I am “to be” Jesus to everyone I meet. I am part of the Body of Christ. A seeker generally cannot see or feel God, but they can see and feel me. I am to touch with His hands, go as with His feet, speak as with His mouth, see with His eyes, and love with His heart!
John 13:34 & 35 says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”
After He returns and gathers the nations to Him, Jesus will separate His sheep (disciples) from the goats (wicked) – Matthew 25:31-46. What is the difference between the sheep and the goats? The sheep fed, watered, housed, clothed, and visited “the least of these.” Jesus said, “Verily I say unto you, in as much as you did it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto Me.”
Luke 10:27-37 tells me that I am to love the Lord God with my of my heart, soul, strength and mind and love my neighbor as myself. He then describes who is my neighbor. A man laid wounded. The priest and Levite walked right on by. The Samaritan “SAW HIM AND HAD COMPASSION ON HIM. He went to him, bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” Jesus said, “Go, and do thou likewise.”
A person may be strong in their faith and have great knowledge of Scripture. But Paul says, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am become as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal, and though I have the gift of prophesy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have no love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, have not love, it profiteth me nothing.” I Corinthians 13:1-3
God calls me to be the conduit of His love. He gave me a good illustration the day I returned home from my trip out west. The water pipe under my home was frozen. For 2 days, I had no drinking water, couldn't take a shower nor wash my clothes. I was unclean! The cold frigid air blocked the life force, the cleansing water flow. As the temperature rose 2 days later, the warmth thawed the ice. Oh what joy, the living water flowed through. I could be refreshed and cleansed.
Jesus is the living water that brings everlasting life. It is this Spring of Living Water that all people need. How many people have I turned away from Jesus because I was cold, arrogant, and self righteous, thus blocking the Living Water? How often did I use too much salt and not enough GRACE in conversation (Colossians 4:6)?
Father, forgive me for not being Your hands and feet and not having Your heart. May I be open and warm to allow Your living water flow through me.
Faith Based Partnerships Ban Truth
In Faith Based Partnerships Ban Truth and Freedom, Berit Kjos examines the limitations of this funding for Christians. When President Bush first introduced Faith Based Initiatives LTW had just begun at Venice Beach, and I attended a conference to find out more. I quickly realized we would not qualify for the funds. In its inception, no proselytizing was allowed with the government grants. Hence, this money ends up in the hands of New Age cults and organizations which do not tell others the exclusive gospel of Jesus. The following is an excerpt from the excellent article, examining changes under the Obama administration.
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We can learn a lesson from ancient Rome. In his book, How Should We Then Live?, Francis Schaeffer points to the heart of today's battle:
"Let us not forget why the Christians were killed. They were not killed because they worshiped Jesus.... Nobody cared who worshiped whom so long as the worshiper did not disrupt the unity of the state, centered in the formal worship of Caesar. The reason the Christians were killed was because they were rebels....
"If they had worshiped Jesus and Caesar, they would have gone unharmed, but they rejected all forms of syncretism. They worshiped the God who had revealed himself in the Old Testament, through Christ.... And they worshiped him as the only God. They allowed no mixture: All other Gods were seen as false gods....
"No totalitarian authority nor authoritarian state can tolerate those who have an absolute by which to judge that state ... Because the Christians had an absolute... standard by which to judge not only personal morals but the state, they were counted as enemies of totalitarian Rome and were thrown to the beasts."[13]
Knit Together in Love (by former lesbian)
This was written by a woman who came out to work with us recently at the table in West Hollywood. We are so thankful to have her on our team.
When gay or lesbian people try to find approval of their sexual relationships from God, many turn to the relationship between Jonathon and David.
Here is one of the key verses: I Samuel 18:1 “And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”
Notice the word KNIT. In order to understand a particular Bible verse, one must interpret it with the rest of Scripture. For example, what else does the Bible say about the word, KNIT?
Two relevant passages are as follows:
Colossians 2:2 “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love...”
Colossians 2:19 “And not holding the head, from which all the body by joints and bands have nourishment ministered, and knit together, increasing with the increase of God.” (see also Judges 20:11; I Chronicles 12:17 and Acts 10:11)
Being Knit together is how God describes how the Body of Christ should be toward one another.
A person born again by the Blood of the Lamb is a new creature and part of the BODY of Christ. The Body: We are His hands, His feet, His mouth, His eyes, His heart! How does a believer understand and hear God? How does a seeker come to know God? Through the touch and voice and love and compassion of the BODY. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU...” (John 13:34 & 35). They will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Fake superficial, “holier than thou” love? NO -- DEEP, RICH, selfless, life changing AGAPE love.
The Body of Christ is to be knit together – to become one. Jesus said, “Holy Father, keep through Thine own Name, those whom Thou hast given Me, that they may be ONE as We are ONE.” John 17:11
It is interesting how God set it up for a male and female to join together to become ONE flesh (Genesis 2:24 & 25). But God calls His Body to become ONE in the Spirit.
Because I was immature, needy and selfish for so many years, I didn't understand this oneness concept and my attractions led into inappropriate same sexual relationships. The love I felt was directed at only one person. Now I see God calls me to be knit together collectively as a body.
God has placed amazing wonderful women in my life. “Attractions” come and I am not afraid of them anymore as I know it is God's love that I am experiencing. It is the same love Paul had for his co-laborers. DEEP AGAPE LOVE.
How our world would change if we would love, agape style!
When gay or lesbian people try to find approval of their sexual relationships from God, many turn to the relationship between Jonathon and David.
Here is one of the key verses: I Samuel 18:1 “And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”
Notice the word KNIT. In order to understand a particular Bible verse, one must interpret it with the rest of Scripture. For example, what else does the Bible say about the word, KNIT?
Two relevant passages are as follows:
Colossians 2:2 “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love...”
Colossians 2:19 “And not holding the head, from which all the body by joints and bands have nourishment ministered, and knit together, increasing with the increase of God.” (see also Judges 20:11; I Chronicles 12:17 and Acts 10:11)
Being Knit together is how God describes how the Body of Christ should be toward one another.
A person born again by the Blood of the Lamb is a new creature and part of the BODY of Christ. The Body: We are His hands, His feet, His mouth, His eyes, His heart! How does a believer understand and hear God? How does a seeker come to know God? Through the touch and voice and love and compassion of the BODY. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU...” (John 13:34 & 35). They will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Fake superficial, “holier than thou” love? NO -- DEEP, RICH, selfless, life changing AGAPE love.
The Body of Christ is to be knit together – to become one. Jesus said, “Holy Father, keep through Thine own Name, those whom Thou hast given Me, that they may be ONE as We are ONE.” John 17:11
It is interesting how God set it up for a male and female to join together to become ONE flesh (Genesis 2:24 & 25). But God calls His Body to become ONE in the Spirit.
Because I was immature, needy and selfish for so many years, I didn't understand this oneness concept and my attractions led into inappropriate same sexual relationships. The love I felt was directed at only one person. Now I see God calls me to be knit together collectively as a body.
God has placed amazing wonderful women in my life. “Attractions” come and I am not afraid of them anymore as I know it is God's love that I am experiencing. It is the same love Paul had for his co-laborers. DEEP AGAPE LOVE.
How our world would change if we would love, agape style!
Sunday, February 08, 2009
"LTW in Church" Gets Going...
I am working tonight on a new article, which we will be using in all of our outreach locations, especially in West Hollywood, Long Beach, and San Diego, CA.
Also, I am finally getting the "thank you" gifts mailed out tomorrow to people who gave in 2008 and finishing addressing them tonight. Though I still don't have my move-in date from the moving company, I have been busy with errands to run concerning my move to Atlanta. WE ARE THANKFUL FOR OUR MINISTRY SUPPORTERS.
Also, I am finally getting the "thank you" gifts mailed out tomorrow to people who gave in 2008 and finishing addressing them tonight. Though I still don't have my move-in date from the moving company, I have been busy with errands to run concerning my move to Atlanta. WE ARE THANKFUL FOR OUR MINISTRY SUPPORTERS.
We have a new ministry beginning at Sevier Heights Baptist, which will be our first "LTW in Church" location! Sevier Heights is a large church in Knoxville, and they are going to start an apologetics table for Christians in the church, so Christians will have answers to give to cultists and people involved in other religions. This "LTW in Church" table will enable Christians to learn why we believe what we believe. Such knowledge only makes us more confident in sharing the Gospel and more grateful to such a precious Savior for redeeming us OUT of the world to call us His own.
Updates on Venice Beach and West Hollywood
Venice Beach: Mike and Eileen got rained out yesterday at Venice Beach, or they would have set up. They are planning on being back out Saturday, February 21.
West Hollywood: We will soon have an exciting update from our mission work at the "Heart for Him (Psalm 37:4)" booth in West Hollywood. Mary, a former lesbian, joined the team the other night, and God led many people over to the table. Mary got to witness to gay men and women about how God has set her free from immoral sex with women. We will have a detailed update soon. (I don't mean to dismiss how difficult it is for people to reconcile gender issues within and stop committing immoral acts against God, their own bodies, and others with the same sex. We don't do any counseling at the table, only offer testimonies on CD and refer people to counseling. We speak with many married people who want desperately to give up this addiction. They admit they are slaves to it and cannot stop. We have spoken often with men from Christian homes, whose mother's are praying for them, whose fathers are pastors in churches. This is a grave sin, and those who begin are often caught in bondage for the rest of their lives--they cannot break free even if they want. However, the BLOOD OF JESUS cleanses from all sin and still has the power to save. This is why it is such a blessing to have former homosexual men and women come and join us to give their testimonies at the booth. We are privileged to shine the light of Jesus to homosexuals; when Satan is offering them freedom TO sin, and Jesus is offering them freedom FROM it.)
Dan, the leader, called and expressed enthusiasm. God even gave us favor with people that night, and, from what I understand, no one in our team was hated for bringing the LIGHT of Jesus and His pure love to the streets of West Hollywood the last night they set up the table!
Is there hope for the homosexual in Jesus? ABSOLUTELY! Is there freedom from sin in Jesus? YES! Go here for more information: Check out Healing for the Soul here. My friend, Jayson Graves, can testify there is hope! He is a former homosexual who has a full time counseling ministry to other sexually broken people with gender identity struggles. Jayson is now married with kids. Jayson's testimony is only one of many we offer to others for encouragement.
(Soon to come: updates from Long Beach, Rio Grande Valley, San Diego, and Boulder.)
West Hollywood: We will soon have an exciting update from our mission work at the "Heart for Him (Psalm 37:4)" booth in West Hollywood. Mary, a former lesbian, joined the team the other night, and God led many people over to the table. Mary got to witness to gay men and women about how God has set her free from immoral sex with women. We will have a detailed update soon. (I don't mean to dismiss how difficult it is for people to reconcile gender issues within and stop committing immoral acts against God, their own bodies, and others with the same sex. We don't do any counseling at the table, only offer testimonies on CD and refer people to counseling. We speak with many married people who want desperately to give up this addiction. They admit they are slaves to it and cannot stop. We have spoken often with men from Christian homes, whose mother's are praying for them, whose fathers are pastors in churches. This is a grave sin, and those who begin are often caught in bondage for the rest of their lives--they cannot break free even if they want. However, the BLOOD OF JESUS cleanses from all sin and still has the power to save. This is why it is such a blessing to have former homosexual men and women come and join us to give their testimonies at the booth. We are privileged to shine the light of Jesus to homosexuals; when Satan is offering them freedom TO sin, and Jesus is offering them freedom FROM it.)
Dan, the leader, called and expressed enthusiasm. God even gave us favor with people that night, and, from what I understand, no one in our team was hated for bringing the LIGHT of Jesus and His pure love to the streets of West Hollywood the last night they set up the table!
Is there hope for the homosexual in Jesus? ABSOLUTELY! Is there freedom from sin in Jesus? YES! Go here for more information: Check out Healing for the Soul here. My friend, Jayson Graves, can testify there is hope! He is a former homosexual who has a full time counseling ministry to other sexually broken people with gender identity struggles. Jayson is now married with kids. Jayson's testimony is only one of many we offer to others for encouragement.
(Soon to come: updates from Long Beach, Rio Grande Valley, San Diego, and Boulder.)
Points Against Evolution (from Daniel Mann)
Neuroscientist and evolutionist Paul Patton made an interesting revelation, at least for me:
One of the most common misconceptions about brain evolution is that it represents a linear process culminating in amazing cognitive powers of humans, with brains of other modern species representing previous stages…However research in comparative neuron-anatomy clearly has shown that complex brains—and sophisticated cognition—have evolved from simpler brains multiple times independently in separate lineages. (Scientific America Mind, “One World, Many Minds,” Dec 2008/Jan 2009, 72-73)
Patton acknowledges that what had been promoted as the evolutionary pathway of the brain (from simplicity to complexity), is not so. Previously, it had been taught that our brains derived from four sequential evolutionary steps in which the fish brain was overlaid by a reptilian complex and later repackaged in over-lying paleo- and then neo-mammalian brain additions:
A ‘neural chassis” corresponding to the brains of fish and amphibians; a reptilian comples, consisting of the basal ganglia, which were held to dominate the brains of reptiles and birds; a paleomammalian component, consisting of the brains limbic system, which supposedly emerged with the origin of mammals and which was responsible for emotional behavior; and finally a neomammalian component, consisting of the neocortex, the site of higher cognitive function. (75)
What does this say about the common brain structures that cast fish as our ancestors?
In recent decades scientists have cast aside a linear, sequential view of brain evolution in which the human brain incorporated components resembling the brains of modern fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds. (79)
What then explains the similar inter-phyla brain “components” if not a “linear, sequential…brain evolution?” Not much, if they evolved “independently in separate lineages!” This would seem to be major bad news for the Darwinist. Traditionally and necessarily, they have argued their case by virtue of homology—common structures suggest common ancestry! However, common structures fail to necessarily argue for common descent.
Another example of this is flight. Darwinists admit that insects, reptiles, birds and mammals had all taken to the skies evolutionarily independent of each other. Now they are admitting the same about the brain. However, their case for common ancestry by virtue of the common brain structures had been particularly impressive. We had been led to believe that the theory of evolution was not only established by homology but also by the fact that the more recent species had gradually added additional brains structures upon the old, one on top of the preceding structure like building a house—the frame built upon the foundation; the roof on the frame, each requiring the prior structure. Not so!
Genetics has become the Darwinists’ Alamo. It’s there that they are making their last-stand. However, the reasoning is still the same: common genetics proves common descent! But this reasoning has consistently failed to demonstrate a common ancestry instead of a common Designer.
One of the most common misconceptions about brain evolution is that it represents a linear process culminating in amazing cognitive powers of humans, with brains of other modern species representing previous stages…However research in comparative neuron-anatomy clearly has shown that complex brains—and sophisticated cognition—have evolved from simpler brains multiple times independently in separate lineages. (Scientific America Mind, “One World, Many Minds,” Dec 2008/Jan 2009, 72-73)
Patton acknowledges that what had been promoted as the evolutionary pathway of the brain (from simplicity to complexity), is not so. Previously, it had been taught that our brains derived from four sequential evolutionary steps in which the fish brain was overlaid by a reptilian complex and later repackaged in over-lying paleo- and then neo-mammalian brain additions:
A ‘neural chassis” corresponding to the brains of fish and amphibians; a reptilian comples, consisting of the basal ganglia, which were held to dominate the brains of reptiles and birds; a paleomammalian component, consisting of the brains limbic system, which supposedly emerged with the origin of mammals and which was responsible for emotional behavior; and finally a neomammalian component, consisting of the neocortex, the site of higher cognitive function. (75)
What does this say about the common brain structures that cast fish as our ancestors?
In recent decades scientists have cast aside a linear, sequential view of brain evolution in which the human brain incorporated components resembling the brains of modern fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds. (79)
What then explains the similar inter-phyla brain “components” if not a “linear, sequential…brain evolution?” Not much, if they evolved “independently in separate lineages!” This would seem to be major bad news for the Darwinist. Traditionally and necessarily, they have argued their case by virtue of homology—common structures suggest common ancestry! However, common structures fail to necessarily argue for common descent.
Another example of this is flight. Darwinists admit that insects, reptiles, birds and mammals had all taken to the skies evolutionarily independent of each other. Now they are admitting the same about the brain. However, their case for common ancestry by virtue of the common brain structures had been particularly impressive. We had been led to believe that the theory of evolution was not only established by homology but also by the fact that the more recent species had gradually added additional brains structures upon the old, one on top of the preceding structure like building a house—the frame built upon the foundation; the roof on the frame, each requiring the prior structure. Not so!
Genetics has become the Darwinists’ Alamo. It’s there that they are making their last-stand. However, the reasoning is still the same: common genetics proves common descent! But this reasoning has consistently failed to demonstrate a common ancestry instead of a common Designer.
--Daniel Mann
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