How to Engage in Truly Passionate Posting

 How to Engage in Truly Passionate Posting

Take those passionate posts to the next level!

I, for one, am truly thankful for Christians* who are willing to put it all out there and engage – even when I disagree with them. And, when engaging in spiritual warfare, few arenas are hotter than social media!  Sadly, however, many are entering this conflict ill equipped, because they truly do not understand all that the Bible has to say about mercy, justice, and truth. Read on – you just may be challenged to take your posts to the next level!

Mercy. There is a passion for mercy that reaches out and will not withhold good from others when it is in our power to show love and compassion. That is, of course, our duty (Proverbs 3:27). Then, there is an even deeper level of mercy that so identifies with others that we see their sorrows and struggles as our own, regardless of their Samaritan roots. We are filled with the same compassion as though one of our own were suffering. This mercy is both biblical and Christlike. (Matthew 9:36, Luke 10:33ff)

Justice. There is a passion for justice that moves us to oppose and remedy evil at any price as we brandish the Word of God with the skill of an ancient warrior (Micah 6:8). There is, however, a more profound level of justice that extends beyond the immediate offense to the origin of that injustice. It seeks to understand and win those who appear to be unjust rather than to discard them as enemies or imbeciles. This justice is both biblical and Christlike. (We see, for example, the LORD tempering His justice in response to the circumstances surrounding Israel’s disobedience throughout the history books.) (Matthew 5:44)

Truth. There is a passion for truth that is grounded in the Absolute, and declares, “This far and no more!” (Romans 3:4). However, there is a deeper love for truth that saturates the very marrow of the truth lover and evokes a commitment so steely in character that it refuses to ever be caught defending the truth through fabrication of the facts or another’s motives, however just the cause. It attacks the issue with abandon while refusing to believe the worst about an enemy until that enemy exhibits his lies by word and deed. This truth lover embraces his enemy and truly desires to see him won. He rejoices in truth and believes all things. He has no need to obscure, shade, or spin facts to aid his righteous cause, for in so doing, neither his character nor his message are sanctified. This truthfulness is both biblical and Christlike (John 7:17-19, 2 Timothy 2:24, Philippians 4:8, 2 Corinthians 2:17).

Prayer. There is a passion for prayer that finds its roots in both faith and obedience. It lovingly declares “I will not sin against God by ceasing to pray for you.” (1 Samuel 12:23, Philippians 1:4, Colossians 4:2). Still, there is another level of prayerfulness that accompanies an abiding life. It arises spontaneously out of a passion that supersedes both duty and discipline. It is the very heartbeat of the indwelling Christ who compels us to approach the throne of grace almost before we know we are praying. It is quiet, subtle, and commonly a part of the daily experience and functions best when unnoticed by others. This passion for prayer is both biblical and Christlike. (John 15:7)

And how does this all relate to penning our passions on social media?

Bible believers are often passionate about those fundamental expressions of mercy, justice, truth, and prayer, but, when committing our thoughts to bits and bytes, we can be tempted to forget their deeper expressions. “Passionate,” however, is the operative word here. This is because the very times when our passion for mercy, justice, or truth comes into play we are most blind to our own flaws. We squint our eyes and focus on the issue at hand, losing awareness of our surroundings. These are the times when we want to allow a little time to lapse between what we read and how respond. As well, it may be helpful to apply a “GRACE” test to what we are about to post or share.

If my post is filled with grace it will:

G. Glorify my Savior. Am I thoughtfully expressing the character of Christ?

R. Reflect mercy and compassion. Am I reflecting true biblical mercy?

A. Add value to the discussion. Am I reacting or responding?

C. Care equally about the issue and the reader! Sincere prayer for my reader will always temper my response.

E. Express the facts carefully. Document, Document, Document!

Are you a social media poster? Thank you for sticking your neck out there! Have you equipped yourself for true spiritual warfare? The weapons of our warfare are not carnal (2 Corinthians 10:4). Listen to your Commander and review the rules of spiritual warfare in Ephesians 6:1-18 before engaging social media!

 

*Please understand that this admonition is directed toward “Christians.” The majority of those who call themselves Christian, simply are not. They do not have the indwelling Christ to encourage, guide, and lead them. The Bible tells us to examine ourselves to see whether we truly are in the faith. If you would like to see the gospel clarified in simple terms, we invite you to visit our link: https://www.internetbiblefellowship.com/gospel.html

 

**Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/pornfree-19996/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=852770">Michael Gehlert</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=852770">Pixabay</a>

 

 < November 25/2020

Are You a Closet Humanist?

Are You a Closet Humanist?

The obvious secular humanist. The United States of America is a republican form of government that was founded on democratic principles. While it was admittedly a pluralistic form of government, it was clearly based upon biblical principles (often called Judeo-Christian values.) From the onset, we were warned that democracy is not a free-standing system. It must be based upon values which are collectively embraced. It is important to note that we are a pluralistic nation because not one, but two value systems have been present from the beginning and are clearly represented in our documents and symbology. The one was essentially humanistic. This belief is represented in the fundamental premise that, given enough light, man can find his own way[1]. The other, more dominant value system was absolutist and committed to the morality imposed upon us by the God of the Bible. The pendulum has now shifted in favor of the humanist and the premise that there is fundamental goodness in man is now being tested fully. Here is the catch. Like adolescents who are embarrassed by their parents, humanists have been woefully ignorant of the halo effect of the moral heritage which has been theirs to enjoy. That halo is fast fading. While we wish no ill will on humanists, they are pretty much on their own now, and the now prolific cultivation of relativism will soon produce its own serpentine fruit. However, we now address a more subtle form of humanism.

The elusive religious Humanist. There is another humanistic tendency which is equally as serious among Bible believers. Again, there two groups. It may surprise some that these groups have been present with us throughout history. One group begins with the premise that the Bible may be taken literally, and that the metaphors and figures of speech found within it must always be subject to the plain and simple literal statements of the Bible. Bible students are aware that premillennialists form the core of this group and that Dispensationalism is nothing more than a systematic effort to take all of God’s Word literally. To articulate its world view, this group then applies the literal scriptures, recognizes that the covenants made between God and men (and their seed) are both literal and foundational to all biblical thought, and understands those covenants relative to what Jesus Christ is doing in any period of history. It is no surprise that Dispensationalism is most often mocked because of its simplicity. There is no requisite for theological creativity and great church fathers here, because once we begin following the path of literal interpretation, we all inevitably end up with the same broad scriptural framework.

The second group of interpreters comes in a wide variety, but all Bible interpreters inside this group share a common starting point. To greater or lesser extents, each interpreter or group of interpreters embeds the leaven of allegorical interpretation into a select framework of literal biblical statements. Augustine, of course, was the most well-known proponent of this system and those who name him as their theological father exhibit those same traits. To summarize, one is either a literal interpreter or he adds a generous mix of allegorical interpretation into his belief system. He allegorizes certain passages and definitions in an effort to make his system consistent. No serious Calvinist, for example, would claim that he interprets the scriptures literally, far less a scholarly Roman Catholic!

So, what is the problem with mixing allegorical interpretation and literal interpretation? The instant we must rely on any external authority of any kind to interpret our Bibles we have imposed a humanistic element. Such scriptural interpreters must rely on their highly revered teachers and church fathers. One cannot embrace Calvinism, for example, without the interpretive style of Calvin and Augustine. Literal interpretation, on the other hand, makes no such demands. It simply requires men to take the scriptures literally because the literal interpreter knows that the Bible can interpret itself by itself. Dispensationalists do not devalue the biblical wisdom and insights which God has given to all of His people regardless of their theological camps, but in the end, they require no other textbook than the Word of God, and no other teacher than the Lord Jesus Himself through the agency of His Holy Spirit (1 John 2:20).

Our problem begs a question. Why would serious and well-meaning men of God walk away from the pristine flow of literal biblical interpretation? The answer is that the Bible makes many claims which are not favorable to our fallen way of thinking, even as believers. It demands our absolute surrender and loyalty to its truth regardless of how reasonable it seems at a given moment. After all, that is the ultimate test. We cannot spiritualize a passage in an effort to make it consistent with our rational view. The moment we do so, we are closet humanists. Will we rely on our own wisdom or the wisdom of an enamored leader or will we simply accept what God says in childlike faith? If the name of some man or church defines one’s religious paradigm, he is likely infected with the humanistic virus.

We may rightfully suggest that we are all vulnerable to imposing our own wisdom:

“For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God”. – 1 Corinthians 1:21-25

Whether we are denying absolutes in national government in favor of humanism, or we are rejecting the surgical accuracy of literal (thus dispensational) interpretation while imposing our own interpretive system, the consequences will remain the same. When human wisdom supplants the absolutes of God’s Word, disaster is inevitable (Isaiah 55:8,9). In the end, all wrong thinking is wrong thinking about God. All wrong thinking, however small, leads to wrong behavior. All wrong behavior leads to wrong consequences. The call remains the same to believer and unbeliever alike. We must humbly submit ourselves to what God, and God alone, declares.

Are you new to the Bible? Are your views seemingly suspended between heaven and hell as you try to sort out the realities of life? Begin with the same absolute statement our Lord Jesus declared to doubting Thomas:

“Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” – John 14:5,6. Find Christ, and you will find your answers! Take Christ literally, and you will find your world view!

 

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[1] In the technical sense, a humanist is one who imposes human reason associated with empiricism and rationalism over divine or supernatural agency.

 

 

R.I.P. The Big-K!

(Are YOU on the horns of a cosmological dilemma?)

James P. Steel

 

Well, it has been over a year now, and the dust has settled. As of May 20, 2019, we have been working with a brand-spanking-new kilogram![i]

Why we needed a new kilogram.In a word, Old Man Kilogram (based on a hunk of metal stored in France with replicas stored in the States and scores of other nations) aged![ii]This is no small matter! Like all old folks, the size of this Platinum-iridium alloy has shrunk by the equivalent of an eyelash (50 micrograms) since 1889! As modern technology depends more heavily than ever on nano mechanics, this is no small matter on our tiny planet. Worse, when we think of a universe which is construed by some to be 93 billion light years in diameter, that one eye lash sized variant in a mere century now represents a phenomenal distance! (Multiply those 50 micrograms times the distance traveled by 93 billion light years!) Do not miss the underlying discussion. The short of it is this, we cannot construct an evolutionary scheme unless we can find a universal constant,because without it we cannot accurately measure or time anything else. The Big-K, as this kilogram has been called, has failed us in the end. We could not rely upon it to be constant! R.I.P.!

How we play the shell game. Even a grade schooler who is interested in science can watch our entire cosmological paradigm crumble into chaos (pardon the pun). Measurement and definition are everything. So, the world’s best metrical minds came together in 2018 and proposed a beautiful marriage between science and philosophy.[iii]In their words (not mine), we needed a constant. After considering alternatives, they married the size of the kilogram to a mathematical equation called the Planck Constant. This is because “once we know the value of the Planck Constant and fix it forever,” we can permanently assign the proper measure to our new kilogram.  We’ll call this new arrival Baby K! The weight of our newborn is to be assigned by observing the characteristics of the atoms in the element cesium relative to the speed of light[iv].  

Now the problem is this. Our new kilogram has done nothing more than kicking the can down the road. We made the same mistake Einstein made when he arbitrarily inserted the lambda factor into his equation (an act for which he later repented in sackcloth and ashes). This fudge factor accommodated the assumed premise of a singular constant extant within the universe, the foundation of all uniformitarian thought (2 Peter 3:3). The reader needs to understand that theoretical (usually philosophical) scientists are still desperately trying to rescue poor Einstein from his dilemma![v]This represents the stuff of another discussion. The point is that we simply have not found a constant within the universe. The Planck Constant (so-called) is based on a dualistic assumption, a premise that neither the speed of light nor the element cesium changes! And yet, neither has been shown not to change![vi]  The Planck Constant simply does not exist. It is a uniformitarian philosophical conjecture. Science has been mulling on this ancient problem since the days of the Stoics.[vii]

So, how did we kick the can down the road with Baby K?  Let’s dig out the little red wagon from our childhood and plop a one-kilogram cube (K-cube) on it and store it away for future reference. After a hundred years we discover it has changed in volume. Our solution? We will break our cube into fifty equally sized parts. We will then break each of those fifty cubes into fifty more. We will do this again and again until we have reached an inconceivably small cube. Then (and here’s where we work our magic), we will take the smallest particle into which we can divide our cubes and multiply its size by the exact number of times we performed the operation and voila!, we now have an infinitely more accurate K-cube! No, folks! Nothing has changed except the size of the first piece from which we took our first measurement. The smallest particle of that cube is just as subject to change as the original cube!

Did shifting to this theoretical Planck Constant help us technologically? Yes! We can now measure things more closely with Baby K than we could with Old Man K. We are more articulate in the same sense as defining a hand as 4 inches helps us measure a horse more accurately. But was any new discovery made? Absolutely not. We never solved the issue of change. This is because we have never found the “constant” in the so-called Planck Constant!

Why this matters biblically. The Bible is clear in its first cosmological principle: Jesus Christ is the “Constant” by which our universe functions (Colossians 1:16,17). He permeates His creation, but He is not a part of it[viii]. He did not imbue an aspect of immutability into the creation (as Friar Aquinas claimed[ix]). He simply carries all the cosmological processes forward as He matures the universe toward its final consummation in accordance with His plan. (Read all of Hebrews 1, and especially Hebrews 1:3, and 1:10-13.) Jesus Christ upholds (Gr.: phero / carries forward) the universe and He matures it simultaneously. Of course, the so-called laws of the universe are exquisitely consistent, and that is because our Savior is consistent. However, they are not inherently constant. Has our Lord demonstrated this marvelous ability to carry the laws of nature forward and to interrupt and adjust them at His will? The Bible is replete with arguments to this effect with commonly documented signs in the universe and local miracles.

Is there a problem with seeking a smaller unit of measurement to carry out our scientific pursuits in a more accurate manner? The answer is, of course not. Our problem arises when we use this exercise to subtly propagate the illusion that the universe is self-interpretable, is constant and reliable within itself, and is governed by its own inherent laws. At that point, we have usurped the Word and authority of the One who created and carries forward this marvelous universe.

Now, here is the cosmological dilemma. The wonderful cosmological platform of heaven and earth was lovingly created by this Lord who wants to nourish us and reconcile us to Himself. He entered this very creation in human flesh to provide Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus Christ is the One with whom we must reconcile both our minds and our hearts. He is the Big-C of the universe. However, He does not leave us an option. Just as Christ alone drives the universe forward, this same Christ insists that He alone is the only true way to God. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” – John 14:6. All roads do not lead to Rome and all religions most certainly do not lead to God. This is because salvation from our sin and its consequence can never be found in a creed or a religion. It is found in a person, and this Person freely and openly invites to come unto Him today.  For more information on the gospel, visit us at StandingTrue.com.

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:9,10 in the Bible.

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[i]While other units of measurement were also altered at this time, we will content ourselves with looking at the kilogram.

[ii] https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2019/5/17/18627757/kilogram-redefined-world-metrology-day-explained

[iii] https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2018/11/14/18072368/kilogram-kibble-redefine-weight-science

[iv] https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/redefine-kilogram-180970798/

[v] https://www.space.com/9593-einstein-biggest-blunder-turns.html

[vi] https://www.livescience.com/29111-speed-of-light-not-constant.html

[vii]See James Steel’s New Ecumenism video series from StandingTrue.com. In particular, notice this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L01fO3Pby2o&feature=youtu.be

[viii]The Bible rejects both pantheism and the wildly popular panentheism that has infiltrated Christian thought.

[ix] Victor McCallister from GodsRiddle.org comments: “Scientists use Friar Thomas’ metaphysics as dogma. Their standard second depends on ‘the all things remain the same’ dogma, as does the standard meter. In fact, they define each other in a circle. Yet, we can directly compare the clock rate of distant atoms, clear to the creation era. Atoms consistently blue shift, the closer they shine from Earth.”

 

> Wednesday, July 29, 2020

In the Spirit of Kindness, Let's Fix This Poster!  Watch the video or read below.

In the Interest of Kindness, Let’s Fix this Placard!

There is a popular placard that seems to be spreading like wildfire, and, frankly, it has some good things to say if it is properly understood. Our problem is that folks have been mixing a whole lot of error into these statements and then using them as mantras. So, in the interest kindness love for one another, we thought we’d suggest a few corrections.

IN THIS HOUSE WE BELIEVE. First, we need to be upfront about this title. We all need a starting point for our beliefs, a consistent foundation from which to reason. Otherwise, what we believe will end up being very self-contradictory, kind of like this placard. God has been reasoning with us since day one! His reasoning has always been consistent.  Now, God’s values have always been misconstrued as evil.  Notice what Joshua’s parting words were to his people:

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15 NKJV

So, using Joshua’s words, let’s strengthen the title on this placard and say, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!” The man who truly reasons his way from who God is and what God says, will find that his values will be consistent, kind, and loving. So, let’s start right there!

SCIENCE IS REAL. Of course, true science is real because true science follows the data, like it or not! 

So, we need to strengthen this claim. The conclusions we make about the data we collect, well, they aren’t always true science! Take, for example, when scientists tell us our creation was not intelligently designed or that the life forces in our creation somehow just carry themselves forward in super intelligent ways that could not have happened spontaneously - well folks, that’s just not science! Why, that’s blind faith! That’s just plain old religion. We must follow the data. It's just not kind to deceive ourselves and our children. So, let’s fix this. True science is true to the data!

When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him? Psalm 8:3,4 NKJV

WOMEN’S RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS. We need to fix this, not because women do not have rights, but because no one’s rights exist in a vacuum. If women are human then it just makes sense that they have human rights that should be protected. As to what separates women’s rights from the rights of men, children, old folks, and babies, now that’s a matter for careful discussion so that all rights are respected. For example, unborn babies are human too. They aren’t baboons or whales, they are very much human. Babies’ rights are human rights. So, if we believe human rights we would never want to rob an unborn or newly born child of the right to live. That would be just plain, old fashioned killing. That’s not very loving. That’s not kind. So let’s remind ourselves unborn babies have human rights too.

For You formed my inward parts;You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:13,14 NKJV

BLACK LIVES MATTER. This statement is certainly true but it does not stand alone. Now, if we believe that any life matters we believe that all life matters and we certainly would not classify folks by their color! Color has absolutely nothing to do with anything. Folks of all colors and stripes (if that is possible) matter to God,who loves all men, and they should matter to us. If I love my neighbor as myself I don’t really notice his color. All colors matter equally and we must all defend each others rights equally. To do any less is to fall right into the trap of those who love to feed hatred and class warfare, and that’s not kind!  We need to “put away,” bitterness and wrath and evil speaking (Ephesians 5:31,32).

And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation...” Revelation 5:9 NKJV

NEWS ISN’T FAKE. Like science, news which does not follow the data or news which stresses one aspect of the facts over other aspects in order to manipulate us is fake. Fake news is so common we are inventing a whole new jargon to cope with it (we speak adversarial journalism and adversarial networking or fake photography, and the list goes on). News is agenda driven because it is filtered by our biases as humans. When folks overtly engineer the news, even for good causes, well, that’s not very kind. So let’s bias ourselves with kindness. True news incites peace, not class warfare.

Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. 2 Peter 2:2,3

Oh, and for the record, here is some very good news! 

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 NKJV

God loves us so much He sent His Son to die for us. We’re all on equal footing before God, and His same gift of redemption is available to us all.

NO HUMAN IS ILLEGAL. We need to fix this because while no human is illegal, humans do behave illegally. If that were not the case, we would not have law enforcement, something which, again, God has ordained for our benefit. How we treat those who violate the law so that justice and fairness are measured out with kindness and consideration is a problem we all face. If I steal, I am a thief. God still loves me, but he never condones anarchy. That would never be kind. It is better for us to say anarchy is never legal.

Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities...  Romans 13:1 NKJV

LOVE IS LOVE. We need to fix this because it is a silly truism. To suggest that love is love is to say absolutely everything and absolutely nothing in the same sentence. Love, in its purest form makes every effort to be wise and discerning. It compels us to do what is best for the object of our love. True love always has her eyes wide open, though folks who feel they are in love are not always so wise. Throughout history, God has warned us about many practices which are harmful. We call these practices sin. In truth, all sin is the result of our failure to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We cannot stop folks from doing what they will do, but we’re not very kind when we fail to warn others about practices that God says will harm them. True love is discerning love.

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to test and prove what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11 NKJV

KINDNESS IS EVERYTHING. So, if kindness is everything, we should be kind in everything we do. Kindness is nothing unless it is truthful, it respects all rights and colors, it hates all violence and lawbreaking, and is discerning in love. 

But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Luke 6:35 NKJV

Watch this in video format.

Visit us at StandingTrue.com

(This link will take you to InternetBibleFellowship.com)

> Thursday, June 18, 2020

The Enneagram

Ho, every one that thirsts come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfies not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.  Isaiah 55:1

The Enneagram (pronounced any-a-gram), see the image above, is fast becoming the latest personality tool promoted as an aid to help us gain a full awareness of ourselves and to empower us to recognize our different so-called personality types all the while, moving us toward a new spiritual consciousness. In actuality, it offers a path away from the true spirituality which is found in Christ. Here are five quick reasons why we should become acquainted with the issue now.

1. We will be facing the issue sooner than we think. Thanks to the increasing involvement of evangelical publishers so-called, this fad is taking evangelicalism by storm. Zondervan is slated to release its movie, “Nine. The Enneagram Documentary” in movie theaters in the fall of 2020. Publishers are rushing their books into print while avant-garde pastors are scrambling to exploit this latest wave. (Use your search engine to get a perspective.)

2. The origin of the Enneagram is both occultic and anti-biblical. The roots of this sketchy equilateral triangle arrangement with its irregular hexagram imposing 9 personality dynamics have been falsely attributed to the desert fathers and mothers (not as though that matters.) Its real origin can be traced to the occultist George Gurdjieff from the last century. It was then reworked by others, but non so important as the Roman Catholic Friar and absolute apostate Richard Rohr. It leached, subsequently, into evangelicalism as it was popularized by disciples of Rohr who were mentored by him. These evangelical influencers include Christopher L. Heuertz, Ian Cron, and Suzanne Stable. Other new agers, of course, have weighed in.

3. The fantasized dynamics of the Enneagram offer a false path to spirituality. The apostate Rohr, did not tout this as a self help tool, but promoted it, rather, as a means to strip away our false selves in order to reveal our authentic selves, thus finding our way to our ultimate reality (in true post-modern jargon.) To do so, he, of course, redefined sin, salvation, and a score of other sound biblical concepts. Evangelicals who were then caught up in the Enneagram have extended Rohr and fitted it into the self focused, self absorbed spirituality movement. One such evangelical author goes so far as to label the Enneagram as “the path of redemption.” In the end, the Enneagram is just another Gnostic retrofit which proffers wisdom and special knowledge to those who apply its dynamics. It offers a counterfeit path to genuine relationship with God, supplanting those very biblical truths it claims to support.

4. Evangelicals are seeking to “redeem” the Enneagram for their own use instead of feeding Christ’s sheep with the pure milk and meat of God’s Word. Hours of fruitful biblical meditation and study will be supplanted by yet another pseudo spiritual applique diverting folks from the sweet streams of living water which are available to true, biblical believers. While the believer is called to meditate upon all things pure and good, our Lord severely warns us about drinking from tainted fountains and bitter waters. We cannot “redeem’ a bitter fountain (James 3:11).

5. The Enneagram fad will harm souls before it fades. The Enneagram is just one more fad, one more gateway, into false spirituality and creation based worship system. It is proudly sponsored by those who openly declare that the scriptures are not sufficient in themselves for all things spiritual and relational! Armies of faithful saints, such as Don Veinot and his co-authors who faithfully pointed this out, will soon follow. They will take pen in hand and warn us, but most will not be heard until the damage is done. Trying to overlay biblical truth on a false Enneagram which has a false history, constructed by false teachers promising false results, is as incongruous as using the Book of Mormon to teach the Bible.

“According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:” 2 Peter 1:3

Are you ready to fortify yourself? The information in this article has been thoroughly documented in Don Veinot’s new publication Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret (Amazon). In addition, you’ll find loads of sound biblical instruction to fortify yourself and your family against the coming wave.  

Visit us at StandingTrue.com

> Saturday, June 13,2020

Be Kind. Always

Image by bknis from Pixabay.com

Be Kind - Always

Years ago a man walked out of my church and announced “You pastors have been leading me astray!”  When queried, he responded, “You have told me for years that the rapture would occur before the tribulation, and now, Ronald Reagan has been elected president!”  He was, of course, joking with me. As the town’s former mayor, he was also a Democrat.

Coexisting in that church full of Democrats and Republicans was a sheriff, a key Republican (with the number 1 on his license plate), more than one former mayor, some powerful men in our local industries, emergency responders, folks in media, education, and so forth. While this was before the days when the radicals took over party leadership, and no one in our church was pro-abortion, etc. our differences were still pronounced. They were also loving and peaceful.

I attribute this to a line of pastors who, in spite of their warts, all taught that our citizenship is first in heaven and that the love of Christ crossed those party lines and brought us all to the level ground at the foot of the cross. Our children learned and worshiped together. As adults, we all rolled up our sleeves and carried out our evangelistic and teaching ministries and fought the same battles in which all churches engage.

We understand that things are not the same today, but the same spirit of Christ can and must prevail among believers within our assemblies and in the community.  Social distancing issues notwithstanding, it's still OK to hug a Democrat or even a Trump supporter. When we open our hearts we also open doors for good, edifying conversations on tough issues.

“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”  Ephesians 4:31,32

Be kind - Always!

> Thursday 05/21/20

HAVE YOU GONE VIRAL?

Have You Gone Viral?

Here are eight facts about viruses. Can you draw the 8 analogies between viruses and sin?

1. Unlike bacteria, viruses are not likely to have been created by God.

2. Unlike bacteria, scientists continually debate whether viruses are dead or alive.

3. Viruses are parasitical. They cannot reproduce on their own. 

4. Viruses appear deceptively similar to natural functions.

5. Viruses force the body to do their own bidding. 

6. Viruses use human cells to manufacture new copies until the victim is overwhelmed.

7. Viruses mutate, making them difficult targets.

8. Viruses are vulnerable to light.

1. Unlike bacteria, viruses are not likely to have been created by God.

 “God did not create viruses, since they do not reproduce after their kinds or even clone themselves, like microbes. They are modified genetic material that can capture a cell’s reproductive processes. Thus, it forces it to make copies of itself. Viruses never do good, like the good things God made.” - Victor McAllister

God did not create sin. God is not the author of sin or of confusion of any kind, but He is the author of salvation and forgiveness!  Read Hebrews 12:2.

2. Unlike bacteria, scientists continually debate whether viruses are dead or alive.

“Nobody’s quite sure if we can label viruses as “living. Many scientists struggle with this  question.” - Lifeliqe

While we can define sin and even speak of its properties we do not fully understand its exact nature and we certainly cannot see it. Biblical teachers may debate whether it is an entity or not, but we agree it is very much present! Just as the oceans contain at least 200,000 unique viral populations (BBC.com), so sin has infected all of mankind. Just as all men must contend with viruses, all men have been infected with sin (

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God"  - Romans 3:23.

Sin entered the world through God’s creatures and it is what separates us from our God. In our efforts to quarantine ourselves from viruses we have separated ourselves from each other. As man tries to quarantine himself from sin through good works he only separates himself even more from God. We cannot cure ourselves. We can only make things worse.

“Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” - Romans 4:4-5

3. Viruses are parasitical. They cannot reproduce on their own. 

James says that sin is the result of lust (from the outside) reproducing itself as sin inside the human heart. For a full explanation, read James 1:13-18.  Sin cannot reproduce on its own. It requires a host. We sin because we are sinners. We are not innocent victims of sin.

“Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” - James 1:15

4. Viruses appear deceptively similar to natural functions.

“They can be  defined as a collection of a few molecules of genetic material, nucleic acid covered by a  layer of protein mass to shelter themselves.” - Lifeliqe

When we wash our hands singing Happy Birthday we are exposing the virus for what it is and destroying its mucous like shield. At that point the body can recognize and destroy it.

When we cleanse our spiritual hands we can stave off the spawning of sin in our own lives.

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” - James 4:8

This cleansing is readily available:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:9-10.

5. Viruses force the body to do their own bidding. 

“They cannot survive for a long by themselves, therefore they need a host on whom they can ‘parasite’. However, this coexistence is only beneficial for the virus, as it takes over its host and forces him to do his bidding by overwriting its genetic material with its own.” - Lifeliqe

Sin brings bondage and, ironically death.  - Romans 6:20-23

6. Viruses use human cells to manufacture new copies until the victim is overwhelmed.

“Cells become a ‘manufactory’ and create many copies of the original virus, which then inflict other ones and continue until the  immune system or drugs slows them down or stops them.” - Lifeliqe

Again, "Sin, when it is finished, brings forth death." James 1:15

7. Viruses mutate, making them difficult targets.

“Every virus mutates. It is part of the life cycle of the virus.” - Healthline.com

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.  And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” - 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

8. Viruses are vulnerable to light, especially ultra violet light.

“As the researchers explained, broad-spectrum UVC light kills viruses and bacteria, and it is currently used to decontaminate surgical equipment. But this type of light can cause skin cancer and cataracts, so it’s not used in public spaces.” - WebMd

“For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” - John 3:20,21

Conclusion:

The struggle with viruses will likely continue and may even be hinted at in the book of Revelation. The solution for sin, on the other hand has been provided and is freely available to all.

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” - Romans 6:23.

Learn more about the good news of Jesus Christ here!