If the Foundations be Destroyed
“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” Psalms 11:3, KJV.
The wise words of Jesus are recorded in Matthew chapter 7. He compares those who do not hearken unto his words to a foolish man who builds his house upon the sand (v. 26). When the floods and wind come upon this man’s house, the foundation is destroyed and the fall of the house is great. Do we as Christians fall under the description of the foolish man or the wise man that builds upon the rock (v. 24)? It is imperative that we understand what foundation we are to build upon as Christians.
In Psalms 11:3 the Psalmist David writes, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” This question is of utmost importance in this ‘anything goes’ age that we are currently living in. If our spiritual foundation is manufactured from anything other than Jesus Christ and the word of God then we are setting ourselves up for a fall. In Ephesians 2:20, Paul explains that the church is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Jesus Christ as the chief cornerstone. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus calls himself (not Peter) the rock that under-girds the church. If we are not seeking the will of the Lord and searching his word for the true foundations, then what can we do that will be profitable?
Sometimes we like to build our spiritual foundation upon our feelings. If it feels good then we ought to do it. I am thankful that God gave us emotions, but they should not govern the decisions that we make in life. Many well meaning people have disregarded the clear commands of scripture and substituted what ‘feels’ right for truth. Our worship of God is not to be directed by emotion. In an effort to attract people into their congregations, many churches have orchestrated their services to appeal to our emotions. Jesus says that our primary purpose for gathering together as God’s people is to worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24), not to be entertained.
Oftentimes in the midst of worship we become emotional as we hear the truth proclaimed (and rightfully so), but our feelings do not govern our worship of God. Our feelings can lead us astray. The Bible speaks of sin being pleasurable (Hebrews 11:25). Should we sin because it feels good? No, we obey the commandments of the Lord because the pleasures of sin are but for a season. This principle applies to all of our emotions
If we try to build our spiritual foundation upon popular opinion we are also setting ourselves up for failure. We observe the effects of this philosophy in the area of creation. Many people have rejected the idea that God created the heavens and the earth in six literal days. They say that we are a result of an evolutionary process and are in existence because of chance. Although the theory of evolution has been discredited numerous times, many people hold to its tenets. Sadly, many Christians have integrated it into their belief system. Thus they have built upon the sands of error.
It does not matter how many esteemed and educated people continue to advertise evolution as the answer to our existence, we are directed by the word of God to stand upon His truth. In Romans 3:4, Paul commands us to let God be true, but every man a liar. There is much more evidence in our world that points to a divine creator than this world coming into existence accidentally.
We see the effects of the rejection of creation in our society. It seems that our nation is increasingly turning away from the moral teachings of the Bible. Millions of unborn babies continue to be slaughtered in the name of choice. Our children are increasingly exposed to sexual perversion and wickedness. I believe that this is directly related to God’s people building their spiritual foundations upon worldly opinions. This results in a downward spiral of families, churches and our nation. We should be emboldened by the promises of Jesus and the word of God. If our foundation is not built upon the ROCK, Jesus Christ we are good for nothing in this world.
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Article - The Wiles of the Devil
The Wiles of the Devil
“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:11, 12, KJV.
Did you know that we are engaged in warfare in this world? All of us are in a daily spiritual battle against the devil and his emissaries. Jesus assures us that if we are his sheep then we do not have to fear our eternal security. “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand (John 10:28).” We should take strength from this and the many other promises of eternal life contained in the Bible. However, we must never forget that the devil is a wily enemy determined to wage war on the children of God until the end of time. The Apostle Peter likens him to a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 4:8). When the Bible speaks of the ‘wiles’ of the devil it means that he is not simply lying in wait to harm God’s people, but rather he is actively hunting them down! How does Satan attempt to harm God’s children, and what can we do to protect ourselves?
The devil is undeniably searching for our children to devour them. He is waging
a full frontal assault on the hearts and minds of our young people. It begins in the womb where many babies are snatched from what should be the safest place in the world for them - in the name of choice. These little ones never see the light of day. The attack does not end there. From an early age our children are taught that they are accidents; here in this world because of the process of evolution. Then, they are assaulted with a philosophy that right and wrong are relative. It is up to the individual to determine morality and there is no real authority in the society. This coupled with the bombardment of sex, violence and mocking of sin by the media causes many casualties amongst our youth in the spiritual battle.
The fight does not end with young people. Satan has set a snare for you, to, and is doing his best to drive you into it. He consumes so much of our time with the pursuit of wealth and material things. Many of us work above and beyond what is needed to provide food and clothing for our families. Many homes have become ‘two income’ families as we pursue bigger homes, nicer cars and more stuff. With mothers away from the home because of careers and father gone most of the time, children have been institutionalized for much of their lives. This leads to the problems mentioned in the previous paragraph and opens the door for the devil to obliterate a family. If our time is not taken up with wealth, then it is easily filled with the distractions of the world. It is amazing to observe how many people are distracted by their Ipods, cell phones, and computers. It is rare to see people engaged in meaningful interactions with others, much less spending quality time with God. I believe that Satan has been successful in casting these and many other stumbling-blocks before God’s people.
What is the solution to this problem? Paul instructs us in Ephesians 6:11 to put on the whole armor of God that we may be able to withstand the devil’s wiles. What is this armor? He lists it in the following verses. We are to have our loins covered with the truth (God’s truth) and the breastplate of righteousness (V. 14). Our feet are to be shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace (V. 15) and we are to defend ourselves with the shield of faith (V.16). Our head is to be covered with the helmet of salvation and our weapon is the sword of the spirit, the word of God (V.17). God’s armor is different than the solutions of the world. If we are truly to withstand the devil’s attacks we must abandon the false ideologies that abandon our youth and consume our time to the point that we neglect all things spiritual. Jesus said, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust
thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever (1 John 2:15-17).”
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:11, 12, KJV.
Did you know that we are engaged in warfare in this world? All of us are in a daily spiritual battle against the devil and his emissaries. Jesus assures us that if we are his sheep then we do not have to fear our eternal security. “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand (John 10:28).” We should take strength from this and the many other promises of eternal life contained in the Bible. However, we must never forget that the devil is a wily enemy determined to wage war on the children of God until the end of time. The Apostle Peter likens him to a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 4:8). When the Bible speaks of the ‘wiles’ of the devil it means that he is not simply lying in wait to harm God’s people, but rather he is actively hunting them down! How does Satan attempt to harm God’s children, and what can we do to protect ourselves?
The devil is undeniably searching for our children to devour them. He is waging
a full frontal assault on the hearts and minds of our young people. It begins in the womb where many babies are snatched from what should be the safest place in the world for them - in the name of choice. These little ones never see the light of day. The attack does not end there. From an early age our children are taught that they are accidents; here in this world because of the process of evolution. Then, they are assaulted with a philosophy that right and wrong are relative. It is up to the individual to determine morality and there is no real authority in the society. This coupled with the bombardment of sex, violence and mocking of sin by the media causes many casualties amongst our youth in the spiritual battle.
The fight does not end with young people. Satan has set a snare for you, to, and is doing his best to drive you into it. He consumes so much of our time with the pursuit of wealth and material things. Many of us work above and beyond what is needed to provide food and clothing for our families. Many homes have become ‘two income’ families as we pursue bigger homes, nicer cars and more stuff. With mothers away from the home because of careers and father gone most of the time, children have been institutionalized for much of their lives. This leads to the problems mentioned in the previous paragraph and opens the door for the devil to obliterate a family. If our time is not taken up with wealth, then it is easily filled with the distractions of the world. It is amazing to observe how many people are distracted by their Ipods, cell phones, and computers. It is rare to see people engaged in meaningful interactions with others, much less spending quality time with God. I believe that Satan has been successful in casting these and many other stumbling-blocks before God’s people.
What is the solution to this problem? Paul instructs us in Ephesians 6:11 to put on the whole armor of God that we may be able to withstand the devil’s wiles. What is this armor? He lists it in the following verses. We are to have our loins covered with the truth (God’s truth) and the breastplate of righteousness (V. 14). Our feet are to be shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace (V. 15) and we are to defend ourselves with the shield of faith (V.16). Our head is to be covered with the helmet of salvation and our weapon is the sword of the spirit, the word of God (V.17). God’s armor is different than the solutions of the world. If we are truly to withstand the devil’s attacks we must abandon the false ideologies that abandon our youth and consume our time to the point that we neglect all things spiritual. Jesus said, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust
thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever (1 John 2:15-17).”
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Article - The Foundation
The Foundation
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. –Matthew 7:24-27
Does it matter where you build your spiritual house? Modern philosophers espouse the idea of individual morality. This is the idea that right and wrong is determined by each person. What may be right to me might be wrong to another person and vice versa. Jesus likens this belief to the foolish man that builds his house upon the sand. As Christians we should desire to build our houses upon the foundation of the rock, Jesus Christ.
In the Book of Judges we observe the results of individuals doing that which was right in their own eyes (ex: 17:6, 21:25). During this time in Jewish history we witness many of God’s chosen nation turning to the worship of idols and intermingling with peoples that did not believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. When the people would foolishly turn from God, judgment would inevitably follow. It was during these times that they were building their spiritual houses upon sand. It is equally important how we build our spiritual houses as individuals, families and churches today.
Who determines right and wrong today? This is an oft debated question in modern society. Ministers and religious institutions are often confronted with the question of what gives them the right to determine the truth. These questions are easily answered when God’s word is sought. Individuals do not determine the truth, but God himself. He has given us the gift of his inspired word and has preserved it for many generations. The Bible is the authoritative point of reference for all of us. It contains absolute truth regarding morality and gives us the foundation that we need to construct our spiritual houses upon. When followed, we are able to withstand the rains, floods, and winds that oftentimes beat upon our spiritual house.
When men follow their own notions, trouble inevitably follows. Notice some of the following scriptures dealing with the wisdom of men. Proverbs 14:12 records that, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Everyone has an opinion about what seems right and wrong but the Bible says that the end is the ways of death. How do we overcome this obstacle? We triumph by adhering to God’s way and not our ways. When our philosophies and opinions differ from God’s truth we need to abandon ours. Jeremiah reveals the true nature of our heart in Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” The old adage of letting your heart and conscience be your guide should be avoided. The Bible states that the heart is deceitful and wicked. We need to measure every decision we make with the standard of God’s word.
What are you to do if you don’t know God’s pattern? The Apostle Paul instructs us to study! He writes us in 2 Timothy 2:15 to, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The Bible is a thorough furnisher of good works and gives us the plan to build our house upon a strong foundation. I encourage you to diligently study the Bible. When you are confronted with a difficult passage, seek wisdom from Godly people. You will be blessed in this endeavor.
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. –Matthew 7:24-27
Does it matter where you build your spiritual house? Modern philosophers espouse the idea of individual morality. This is the idea that right and wrong is determined by each person. What may be right to me might be wrong to another person and vice versa. Jesus likens this belief to the foolish man that builds his house upon the sand. As Christians we should desire to build our houses upon the foundation of the rock, Jesus Christ.
In the Book of Judges we observe the results of individuals doing that which was right in their own eyes (ex: 17:6, 21:25). During this time in Jewish history we witness many of God’s chosen nation turning to the worship of idols and intermingling with peoples that did not believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. When the people would foolishly turn from God, judgment would inevitably follow. It was during these times that they were building their spiritual houses upon sand. It is equally important how we build our spiritual houses as individuals, families and churches today.
Who determines right and wrong today? This is an oft debated question in modern society. Ministers and religious institutions are often confronted with the question of what gives them the right to determine the truth. These questions are easily answered when God’s word is sought. Individuals do not determine the truth, but God himself. He has given us the gift of his inspired word and has preserved it for many generations. The Bible is the authoritative point of reference for all of us. It contains absolute truth regarding morality and gives us the foundation that we need to construct our spiritual houses upon. When followed, we are able to withstand the rains, floods, and winds that oftentimes beat upon our spiritual house.
When men follow their own notions, trouble inevitably follows. Notice some of the following scriptures dealing with the wisdom of men. Proverbs 14:12 records that, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Everyone has an opinion about what seems right and wrong but the Bible says that the end is the ways of death. How do we overcome this obstacle? We triumph by adhering to God’s way and not our ways. When our philosophies and opinions differ from God’s truth we need to abandon ours. Jeremiah reveals the true nature of our heart in Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” The old adage of letting your heart and conscience be your guide should be avoided. The Bible states that the heart is deceitful and wicked. We need to measure every decision we make with the standard of God’s word.
What are you to do if you don’t know God’s pattern? The Apostle Paul instructs us to study! He writes us in 2 Timothy 2:15 to, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The Bible is a thorough furnisher of good works and gives us the plan to build our house upon a strong foundation. I encourage you to diligently study the Bible. When you are confronted with a difficult passage, seek wisdom from Godly people. You will be blessed in this endeavor.
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Article - Teaching Our Children
Teaching our Children
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart
from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Who has the primary responsibility in teaching our children? Does the responsibility
fall on the public school system? Is it the church? Does it really take a village
to raise a child? I believe that the Bible places the principal responsibility on
the child’s parents. Locally, I believe that we have one of the best public school
systems in the world. However, public education was not designed to supersede the
moral teachings of a youth’s family. In the beginning the primary purpose of school
was to teach reading, writing and math. Sadly, some have neglected the Biblical
mandate of Proverbs 22 and public education has been given a burden that it was
never intended to bear. I am thankful for Godly men and women that gladly bear this
yoke. However, it ought to be our desire to return to the pattern of the scriptures.
Some may place the task of teaching our youth on the church. While local congregations
and ministers are to provide clear instruction from God’s word, the training up
of children is a parent’s job. Well meaning Christians will sometimes enroll their
children in Sunday school, youth groups or children’s church and assume that they
are receiving the necessary spiritual teaching. Mothers and fathers, God has made
you responsible for teaching your son/daughter the moral truths of God’s word. As
Christians we need to find a church that upholds the doctrine and practice of the
Bible. We should regularly attend a house of worship that teaches the Word of God.
When we are spiritually fed the Word at church, then we pass those teachings along
to our children.
Solomon instructs us to train up a child in the way that he/she should go in Proverbs
22:6. The word train in this verse is synonymous with the idea of instructing, shaping
or guiding a child. How do we go about shaping our children in the things of God?
It has already been mentioned that we need to be sitting under the preached word
of God. I believe that the most effective method of public worship occurs when families
are all together. This also appears to parallel the pattern of the New Testament
Church. When families worship together there is no doubt about what your children
are hearing. When we are not in public worship we need to be taking time daily to
study the Bible with our children. When our youth are trained in Biblical morality
they will be equipped to deal with the evil that they confront in the world. Another
way that we teach our children is to be actively involved in all aspects of their
lives. This means that we are discussing with our children what they are learning
in school, church, etc. When the teachings from other places are contrary to Biblical
instruction it is imperative that we show our children the right way.
In Deuteronomy 6:5-9 we observe the importance of teaching our children to love
God with all of our heart, soul and might. God states that the children of Israel
were to
“Teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest
in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and
when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they
shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts
of thy house, and on thy gates (v.7-9). God wants parents to be constantly engaged
in teaching their sons and daughters.
Solomon says that when parents are diligent to train up their children they won’t
depart from these teachings when they are old. Does this mean that all will be perfect
when we diligently teach our children Biblical morality? As long as we are in this
world of sin God’s children will periodically stumble along the way. However, when
we provide Godly teachings and live a Christ-honoring example before our children
they will know where to turn when confronted with our present culture. I believe
that when we as parents adhere to this Biblical principle, we can make a positive
impact in our present and successive generations. I know that we do not live in
a perfect world and many children come from broken families. It is my prayer that
mothers, fathers, grandparents or others who are guardians of children would make
Godly teaching a priority in the lives of their children.
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org)
in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm.
Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org.
Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist
Church.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart
from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Who has the primary responsibility in teaching our children? Does the responsibility
fall on the public school system? Is it the church? Does it really take a village
to raise a child? I believe that the Bible places the principal responsibility on
the child’s parents. Locally, I believe that we have one of the best public school
systems in the world. However, public education was not designed to supersede the
moral teachings of a youth’s family. In the beginning the primary purpose of school
was to teach reading, writing and math. Sadly, some have neglected the Biblical
mandate of Proverbs 22 and public education has been given a burden that it was
never intended to bear. I am thankful for Godly men and women that gladly bear this
yoke. However, it ought to be our desire to return to the pattern of the scriptures.
Some may place the task of teaching our youth on the church. While local congregations
and ministers are to provide clear instruction from God’s word, the training up
of children is a parent’s job. Well meaning Christians will sometimes enroll their
children in Sunday school, youth groups or children’s church and assume that they
are receiving the necessary spiritual teaching. Mothers and fathers, God has made
you responsible for teaching your son/daughter the moral truths of God’s word. As
Christians we need to find a church that upholds the doctrine and practice of the
Bible. We should regularly attend a house of worship that teaches the Word of God.
When we are spiritually fed the Word at church, then we pass those teachings along
to our children.
Solomon instructs us to train up a child in the way that he/she should go in Proverbs
22:6. The word train in this verse is synonymous with the idea of instructing, shaping
or guiding a child. How do we go about shaping our children in the things of God?
It has already been mentioned that we need to be sitting under the preached word
of God. I believe that the most effective method of public worship occurs when families
are all together. This also appears to parallel the pattern of the New Testament
Church. When families worship together there is no doubt about what your children
are hearing. When we are not in public worship we need to be taking time daily to
study the Bible with our children. When our youth are trained in Biblical morality
they will be equipped to deal with the evil that they confront in the world. Another
way that we teach our children is to be actively involved in all aspects of their
lives. This means that we are discussing with our children what they are learning
in school, church, etc. When the teachings from other places are contrary to Biblical
instruction it is imperative that we show our children the right way.
In Deuteronomy 6:5-9 we observe the importance of teaching our children to love
God with all of our heart, soul and might. God states that the children of Israel
were to
“Teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest
in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and
when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they
shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts
of thy house, and on thy gates (v.7-9). God wants parents to be constantly engaged
in teaching their sons and daughters.
Solomon says that when parents are diligent to train up their children they won’t
depart from these teachings when they are old. Does this mean that all will be perfect
when we diligently teach our children Biblical morality? As long as we are in this
world of sin God’s children will periodically stumble along the way. However, when
we provide Godly teachings and live a Christ-honoring example before our children
they will know where to turn when confronted with our present culture. I believe
that when we as parents adhere to this Biblical principle, we can make a positive
impact in our present and successive generations. I know that we do not live in
a perfect world and many children come from broken families. It is my prayer that
mothers, fathers, grandparents or others who are guardians of children would make
Godly teaching a priority in the lives of their children.
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org)
in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm.
Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org.
Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist
Church.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Article - Who Will be in Heaven??
Who Will be in Heaven?
“Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:” Matthew 25:34, KJV.
Who will be in heaven? This question in often debated amongst religious circles. Many Christians believe that only those who have heard the preached word and have made a profession of belief in Jesus Christ will enter into Heaven. Other religious groups believe that they are the only ones who are entitled to paradise beyond this world, and the rest of the human race are doomed infidels. Is heaven reserved for a small group or will we all be there? Will only Christians enter into heaven or will there be people from other religions there also? What about those who have never heard about Jesus Christ?
In the latter part of Matthew 25, Jesus speaks of his return to the earth. The Bible states that all nations will be gathered before him and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. Those on the left (the goats) will be sent to everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Those on the right hand (his sheep) will inherit the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world. It is they who are going to heaven whom we will address in this article.
The Bible provides much teaching about heaven and who will be there. Simply stated, all that are supposed to go to heaven will be there. In 1 Peter 1:2, the Apostle writes to those who are, “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father.” Who are the elect? They are those who God chose before the foundation of the world to enter into heaven. In Ephesians 1:3-4, Paul writes, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:” God has chosen who will be before him for all eternity. His Son, Jesus Christ procured the salvation of the elect through his sacrifice on the cross. How did God decide who was going to go to heaven? He predestinated (determined their destiny beforehand) them according to the good pleasure of his will (Ephesians 1:5).
Does the concept of election limit the number of those that will enjoy heaven’s eternal glory? No indeed! The Bible speaks of God’s children as being a great multitude. The number of God’s elect is likened to the sand of the sea. God told Abraham that if he could number the sand, then he could number His people. The elect are also likened to the stars of heaven (Genesis 22:7). Today, telescopes have located millions of stars. New ones are identified daily! Many have not yet been discovered. So it is with those that will enjoy heaven’s glory. They are a great multitude which no man can number. In Revelation 19 we observe a great voice of much people in heaven saying, “Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power, unto the Lord our God.”
There will be people from all nations in heaven. Entrance will not be limited to one particular race, culture or religion. God’s elect are everywhere! Acts 10:35 records that, “In every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” Scripture teaches that hell is a real place that will be populated by those who know not God. These will be judged according to their sins. However, we know that all whom Jesus died for will be in the presence of the Lord forevermore. How do you know that you are one of the elect? If you have a reverential fear of the Lord and work righteousness, then you have good evidence that you are one of his! As one of God’s children we need not fear his return to the earth. When he comes again he will say unto his children, “ Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” What a day that will be!
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
“Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:” Matthew 25:34, KJV.
Who will be in heaven? This question in often debated amongst religious circles. Many Christians believe that only those who have heard the preached word and have made a profession of belief in Jesus Christ will enter into Heaven. Other religious groups believe that they are the only ones who are entitled to paradise beyond this world, and the rest of the human race are doomed infidels. Is heaven reserved for a small group or will we all be there? Will only Christians enter into heaven or will there be people from other religions there also? What about those who have never heard about Jesus Christ?
In the latter part of Matthew 25, Jesus speaks of his return to the earth. The Bible states that all nations will be gathered before him and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. Those on the left (the goats) will be sent to everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Those on the right hand (his sheep) will inherit the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world. It is they who are going to heaven whom we will address in this article.
The Bible provides much teaching about heaven and who will be there. Simply stated, all that are supposed to go to heaven will be there. In 1 Peter 1:2, the Apostle writes to those who are, “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father.” Who are the elect? They are those who God chose before the foundation of the world to enter into heaven. In Ephesians 1:3-4, Paul writes, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:” God has chosen who will be before him for all eternity. His Son, Jesus Christ procured the salvation of the elect through his sacrifice on the cross. How did God decide who was going to go to heaven? He predestinated (determined their destiny beforehand) them according to the good pleasure of his will (Ephesians 1:5).
Does the concept of election limit the number of those that will enjoy heaven’s eternal glory? No indeed! The Bible speaks of God’s children as being a great multitude. The number of God’s elect is likened to the sand of the sea. God told Abraham that if he could number the sand, then he could number His people. The elect are also likened to the stars of heaven (Genesis 22:7). Today, telescopes have located millions of stars. New ones are identified daily! Many have not yet been discovered. So it is with those that will enjoy heaven’s glory. They are a great multitude which no man can number. In Revelation 19 we observe a great voice of much people in heaven saying, “Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power, unto the Lord our God.”
There will be people from all nations in heaven. Entrance will not be limited to one particular race, culture or religion. God’s elect are everywhere! Acts 10:35 records that, “In every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” Scripture teaches that hell is a real place that will be populated by those who know not God. These will be judged according to their sins. However, we know that all whom Jesus died for will be in the presence of the Lord forevermore. How do you know that you are one of the elect? If you have a reverential fear of the Lord and work righteousness, then you have good evidence that you are one of his! As one of God’s children we need not fear his return to the earth. When he comes again he will say unto his children, “ Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” What a day that will be!
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
Monday, June 04, 2007
Repentance Unto Life
Acts 11:17-18
Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
Yesterday I attempted to speak on the subject of repentance. Repentance is a change of mind; a conversion from sin unto God. Peter was giving an account of the Lord's work amongst the Gentiles. God gave them repentance. He changed their lives! The good news for us is that the Lord continues to change the lives of his people today. If you sorrow because of your sinfulness yet see Jesus Christ as your savior, then you have been granted repentance unto life. If you believe on him it is because of the work of the Lord in your heart!
Thankfully, God also grants repentance in our everyday lives. The Bible says that Godly sorrow worketh repentance (2 Cor 7:10). The Spirit convicts his children when they do wrong. It is at this point when we should change out way and clease ourselves from all filthiness. I don't know about you, but I have to do this on a regular basis. Praise the Lord that we have a loving Heavenly Father that is faithful to chasten us when we do wrong.
Remember that repentance is not merely saying your sorry or feeling bad because of sinful behavior. It involves a change in behavior. We are able to make a change on the outside because God works on the inside.
In Christian Love,
Michael Green, Jr.
Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
Yesterday I attempted to speak on the subject of repentance. Repentance is a change of mind; a conversion from sin unto God. Peter was giving an account of the Lord's work amongst the Gentiles. God gave them repentance. He changed their lives! The good news for us is that the Lord continues to change the lives of his people today. If you sorrow because of your sinfulness yet see Jesus Christ as your savior, then you have been granted repentance unto life. If you believe on him it is because of the work of the Lord in your heart!
Thankfully, God also grants repentance in our everyday lives. The Bible says that Godly sorrow worketh repentance (2 Cor 7:10). The Spirit convicts his children when they do wrong. It is at this point when we should change out way and clease ourselves from all filthiness. I don't know about you, but I have to do this on a regular basis. Praise the Lord that we have a loving Heavenly Father that is faithful to chasten us when we do wrong.
Remember that repentance is not merely saying your sorry or feeling bad because of sinful behavior. It involves a change in behavior. We are able to make a change on the outside because God works on the inside.
In Christian Love,
Michael Green, Jr.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Article - Being Instant in Prayer
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope;
patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer...”
- Romans 12:10-12
Are you distressed at the current moral climate of our nation? Do you feel helpless and hopeless about any changes for the better? If you are in this condition, have you thought to pray? I am reminded of the hymn, Did You Think to Pray? by Mary Kidder. She writes:
Ere you left your room this morning,
Did you think to pray?
In the name of Christ our Savior,
Did you sue for loving favor,
As a shield today?
Oh, how praying rests the weary!
Prayer will change the night to day;
So when life seems dark and dreary,
Don’t forget to pray.
The Bible teaches that we have instant access to our Lord. He is always available to hear our petitions. In the above verse, the Apostle Paul commands us to be instant in prayer. He is teaching us to earnestly persevere in our petitions to the Heavenly Father. Sometimes we are discouraged when we do not find instant peace or solutions to our problems. Do
not be disheartened! Continue to pray that God will lead you according to His holy will. The Bible teaches us that the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous main availeth much (James 5:16). As we enter into the summertime months, here are a couple things that we need to diligently remember in prayer:
1. We need to pray for our churches. We are living in a time where many do not see the importance of public worship. The Bible teaches us that we are not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (Hebrews 10:25). God blesses us in an extraordinary way when we are faithful to assemble ourselves together in corporate worship. There are myriad
reasons that people stop attending church. Some have been offended by another. Some might be overwhelmed with personal problems while others might have grown apathetic in their Christian walk. Whatever the case, we need to pray for those that are struggling. We need to diligently pray that God would revive his people so they will return unto their first
love and glorify the Lord.
2. We need to pray for our youth. As we enter into the summer months, many of our children have completed another school year. Some have graduated and are planning to move on to secondary education. We need to constantly remember them as we pray to the Lord. Satan desires to cast stumbling blocks in the paths of our youth. I have observed many cases
where young adults have faltered in their Christian walk when they leave home and enroll in college. An articulate, engaging professor can undo 17 years worth of spiritual training in a semester. Pray that God would bless our youth to follow the way of truth and withstand the assaults of the devil.
Moral change will not occur through government policy. It will only be realized when the Lord’s people repent of their sins and turn towards Him. All of us have the ability to pray. He hears our cries and answers prayer. I am reminded of Solomon’s charge in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Our churches are in great need of revival. Our youth are under attack by Satan. Let us strive now to be diligent, fervent, and instant in prayer, that God will forgive our sins and bless our churches and young
people to honor His holy name!
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer...”
- Romans 12:10-12
Are you distressed at the current moral climate of our nation? Do you feel helpless and hopeless about any changes for the better? If you are in this condition, have you thought to pray? I am reminded of the hymn, Did You Think to Pray? by Mary Kidder. She writes:
Ere you left your room this morning,
Did you think to pray?
In the name of Christ our Savior,
Did you sue for loving favor,
As a shield today?
Oh, how praying rests the weary!
Prayer will change the night to day;
So when life seems dark and dreary,
Don’t forget to pray.
The Bible teaches that we have instant access to our Lord. He is always available to hear our petitions. In the above verse, the Apostle Paul commands us to be instant in prayer. He is teaching us to earnestly persevere in our petitions to the Heavenly Father. Sometimes we are discouraged when we do not find instant peace or solutions to our problems. Do
not be disheartened! Continue to pray that God will lead you according to His holy will. The Bible teaches us that the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous main availeth much (James 5:16). As we enter into the summertime months, here are a couple things that we need to diligently remember in prayer:
1. We need to pray for our churches. We are living in a time where many do not see the importance of public worship. The Bible teaches us that we are not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (Hebrews 10:25). God blesses us in an extraordinary way when we are faithful to assemble ourselves together in corporate worship. There are myriad
reasons that people stop attending church. Some have been offended by another. Some might be overwhelmed with personal problems while others might have grown apathetic in their Christian walk. Whatever the case, we need to pray for those that are struggling. We need to diligently pray that God would revive his people so they will return unto their first
love and glorify the Lord.
2. We need to pray for our youth. As we enter into the summer months, many of our children have completed another school year. Some have graduated and are planning to move on to secondary education. We need to constantly remember them as we pray to the Lord. Satan desires to cast stumbling blocks in the paths of our youth. I have observed many cases
where young adults have faltered in their Christian walk when they leave home and enroll in college. An articulate, engaging professor can undo 17 years worth of spiritual training in a semester. Pray that God would bless our youth to follow the way of truth and withstand the assaults of the devil.
Moral change will not occur through government policy. It will only be realized when the Lord’s people repent of their sins and turn towards Him. All of us have the ability to pray. He hears our cries and answers prayer. I am reminded of Solomon’s charge in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Our churches are in great need of revival. Our youth are under attack by Satan. Let us strive now to be diligent, fervent, and instant in prayer, that God will forgive our sins and bless our churches and young
people to honor His holy name!
Michael Green, Jr. is pastor of Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church (www.palmchapel.org) in Crestview, FL. Palm Chapel meets every Sunday at 10:30am and Wednesday at 6:00pm. Pastor Green can be contacted at (850) 689-3383 or by email at pastor@palmchapel.org. Pastor Green warmly invites you to come and worship at Palm Chapel Primitive Baptist Church.
I'm Baaack
Hello All!
It has been I while since I posted on my blog. I hope to use this site more frequently and post articles, reflections, etc. This site is linked to our church website (www.palmchapel.org). I am not proficient enough to add directly to the site without much labor :-) Look for articles here in the near future.
Blessings,
Bro. Michael
P.S. The church website is now updated.
It has been I while since I posted on my blog. I hope to use this site more frequently and post articles, reflections, etc. This site is linked to our church website (www.palmchapel.org). I am not proficient enough to add directly to the site without much labor :-) Look for articles here in the near future.
Blessings,
Bro. Michael
P.S. The church website is now updated.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
New Church Site
Greetings! The church website has been updated. Please visit www.palmchapel.org and let us know what you think. More to be added in the coming days.
The family is getting over various illnesses that have been going around. E turned 4 Tuesday. M will be 2 in March and little brother A is growing fast!!
Hope all have a blessed night!
Bro. Michael
The family is getting over various illnesses that have been going around. E turned 4 Tuesday. M will be 2 in March and little brother A is growing fast!!
Hope all have a blessed night!
Bro. Michael
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Greetings all!
Andrew Lawrence Green Entered the world Friday January 6, 2006. He weighed 9lbs. It has been an interesting couple of weeks. We had a tornado hit the school last Friday. Thankfully no one was harmed.
We've been blessed to have some great meetings at church. I am currently updating the church webpage (www.palmchapel.org) and hope to have it up and running soon. Hope all are well!
Michael Green
Andrew Lawrence Green Entered the world Friday January 6, 2006. He weighed 9lbs. It has been an interesting couple of weeks. We had a tornado hit the school last Friday. Thankfully no one was harmed.
We've been blessed to have some great meetings at church. I am currently updating the church webpage (www.palmchapel.org) and hope to have it up and running soon. Hope all are well!
Michael Green
Friday, October 14, 2005
The Journey Begins
Greetings All!
This is my first venture into "Blogging" on the Internet. I hope to post reflections about this adventure that I call life.
Brief introduction... I am pastor of a Primitive Baptist Church, husband, father of 2 (soon to be 3), educator, and student. I believe this site to be an excellent medium to reflect on my activities, thoughts, meditiaions, etc. on all the subjects written above. I hope all will be honourable to God and conducted in such a way to magnify His name and truth. I hope you enjoy the ride. Buckle up, locate the nearest flotation device and hold on :-)
I awoke this morning with this thought:
God knows all of our thoughts and imaginations, yet he still loves us! If we could read each other's mind, would we be as forgiving or overlook one another's evil thoughts? Thankfully we are not mind-readers. God knows everything we think and has mercy on us! God help us to love one another despite differences and be quick to forgive when one crosses us. Let us manifest the mercy to another that God shows us! (see: Psalms 103:8,14)
This is my first venture into "Blogging" on the Internet. I hope to post reflections about this adventure that I call life.
Brief introduction... I am pastor of a Primitive Baptist Church, husband, father of 2 (soon to be 3), educator, and student. I believe this site to be an excellent medium to reflect on my activities, thoughts, meditiaions, etc. on all the subjects written above. I hope all will be honourable to God and conducted in such a way to magnify His name and truth. I hope you enjoy the ride. Buckle up, locate the nearest flotation device and hold on :-)
I awoke this morning with this thought:
God knows all of our thoughts and imaginations, yet he still loves us! If we could read each other's mind, would we be as forgiving or overlook one another's evil thoughts? Thankfully we are not mind-readers. God knows everything we think and has mercy on us! God help us to love one another despite differences and be quick to forgive when one crosses us. Let us manifest the mercy to another that God shows us! (see: Psalms 103:8,14)
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