A little over twenty years ago, I was a student at RMIT. Typical student of the 70s - shoulder-length hair, long scruffy beard, holey T-shirt and tattered jeans.
One lunchtime, some strangers started talking to me about the topic of Religion. This got my attention. I was sure of my own intelligence, so certain of the power of reason. My parents never went to church. When they spoke of God, it seemed like hypocrisy ("do what I say, don't do what I do"). That was a big turn-off. God didn't seem "reasonable", "logical", so I dumped Him, thought He couldn't be there. Fortunately, He didn't dump me.
I'd long been aware of an emptiness, a search for meaning for life. Was it just a matter of "a man was born, he lived, and he died"? Was it really just "Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow you die"? Was I really just a concatenation of atoms? Surely there was more to life than this.
I'd already wiped off Christianity (without knowing what it was about, as it turned out), and started looking into alternatives. I haunted the libraries - Indian religions seemed confusing and contradictory; Islam - maybe: I looked into flying saucers and the possibility of extra-terrestrial life. The Greek and Roman mythologies I immediately dismissed as fairy tales, but some of the older Celtic mythologies seemed to have something. I drifted into New Age teachings - astrology, fortune-telling, and the like. But I felt vaguely uneasy. It tickled my fancy, aroused my curiosity, but it didn't answer that deep-down question of "Why am I here?" It didn't give me a meaning for life, only a way to pass the time.
A book I picked up claimed to have the answer to all life's problems - Bewdy! I thought. This is what I need! I took it home, read it, it was convincing. It turned out to be a book on Christian prayer! Was I a hypocrite? No! I decided - rightio then, I'll pray. I'll become a Christian.
So I prayed. I tried to read the Bible, but gave up after a time. It was too confusing. I tried to pray, but found myself uncomfortable, unsure what kind of God I was praying to - but at the same time, aware that I wasn't the kind of man I ought to be.
And then - I met Jesus.
Bill and Geoff aroused my curiosity. They were different. They seemed truly happy with life, and had peace. They invited me along to Bible study, and explained what Jesus had done. I started going to church - but it was only when I went to hear a visiting evangelist one night, that the Gospel really made sense to me.
That night on the tram going home, it was all I could do to stop from bursting out in song, singing praises to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
Meeting Jesus changed my life. Finding out what He had done for me made such a change! No wonder Scripture speaks of the believer being born again! There was a new joy in my heart every day, a new sense of purpose. Suddenly the Bible made sense, and I'd sit up well into the night reading it - like pouring water on dry ground, it was. And I saw God changing things in my life. I'd sense His guidance, leading me away from things that would do me harm, and giving me joy and peace as I spent time with Him.
Jesus is not just a name on paper or a character in ancient history. He is a real person. He "walks with me and talks with me and tells me I am His own". What He has done for me, I can never repay; what He does for me every day is amazing. People are surprised at my background and amazed at the grace of God in taking what I was and making what I am now. All praise to Him for that! (Pastor Peter Wilding, Batesford, Vic)
What a month April was to me! Saturday the 5th at 8.30 pm my older sister rang from interstate, and with weak, gasping breath said, "Can you come quickly, and get me? I need to be with you."
I was at her side in 19 hours. Cherie had breast cancer, and had been treating it herself with "alternative medicine" for 18 months whilst overseas. Her skeletal frame was no more than 6 stone. Her gaunt face showed eyes filled with pain, but never a word or sound to reveal that - ever! The stench from the gaping hole that used to be her left breast was devastating. I tried hard not to show my horror at her condition.
We needed a doctor's permission before the aircraft would let her board. Cherie didn't believe in medical practitioners- Thank you! But- lots of people were praying. A doctor was contacted. We were on board in 30 hours, across two states and to my house in 5 hours.
Dressing her wound was emotionally taxing. Her "dry humoured jokes" at her own expense, gave NO indication of the pain she must have been in. We legally needed a doctor's assessment, plus Cherie's declaration of her desire for us to treat her in our home. Cherie permitted us to call our family's clinic. Our doctor commended me on the sterility of the wound, but was aghast at its progressive state and aroma. He warned us that she would be lucky to last out the week, and advised us to try to get her into hospital.
The next day jaundice surrounded the wound. Time was running out - and she was not saved! After 25 years of Scientology, Cherie was now entrenched in "New Age mysticism", and "Quite happy, thank you!" We were in "Emergency" within two hours. "ONLY to assess the extent of the cancer, thank you, NO medicine, or needles in my body, thank you!"
Looking Cherie straight in the eye the doctor declared, "Dear lady, you are dying." The cancer was in her liver, spleen, throat and speedily progressing to her brain.
"Sweet Jesus, if ever we needed a miracle for an unbeliever, it was now. Please save her soul", my inner-man was screaming! I offered her the Gospel, amid tears. "No thank you. I'm quite happy in contact with my clairvoyant friends."
She was hospitalised on the spot. The down hill run began. Family members began to fly in. My daughter took the night shifts on a fold up bed beside my sister, dressing the wound whenever I wasn't available, as Cherie wouldn't allow the nurses to do it. We were all exhausted now, and running on the goodness of God's grace and mercy alone.
Thursday. I asked Cherie to receive the Gospel. She gave me a wry smile, and replied, "My, you are stubbornly persistent, aren't you?" "Aren't we all!", I retorted. We both smiled.
Friday. Again, I asked. She looked at me long and level... "Maybee.. tomorrow." Daylight was breaking into her night.
Saturday. "OK", she said. I was so excited. She prayed for forgiveness and asked Jesus to be Lord of her life. We all began to cry, except Cherie who smiled and said, "Thank you".
The peace of God flooded over us all. A settling and willingness to let God heal, or take her on to glory. His choice.
Monday. At 7am she released herself into Jesus' arms. Nine days of miracles, and grace towards the sinner. The power of stubborn love, and the endless faithfulness of our mighty God and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
A nurse told me that usually they are on the run taking valium or medicines to the dying and their relatives, but we had been medicine to them.
Thank You Lord Jesus, You make the difference, if only we'll let You in.
(Karalyn Atkins, Adelaide, SA)
To-day begins another day, of another week, of another month, of another year. How fast our time is passing! In an age of modern conveniences, we still have little time to spare.
God says, "Redeem the Time". If we were to tally up what we have done that really counts over the last ten years, would we get a plus, a minus, or a zero? We want to leave something behind that will count and help in this world in some way, but time is moving so fast we can hardly keep up.
Have you given thought to the One who created time? Time has no end. It is hard for us who live at best a short seventy or eighty years, to understand an endless, timeless eternity. But God is eternal, and eternity is timeless.
"Where will you spend Eternity?" We must prepare for Eternity NOW! We will have no time after we have departed this life. "Only that which is done for God will really last." As time races by and this body of ours deteriorates we have no promise of tomorrow. Eternity depends on what we have prepared for up until this moment.
The Bible speaks of only two places appointed unto man after this life. One, a Heaven for those who love and trust in Christ; the other, a Hell, a place of torment, prepared for the devil and his angels, and all without Christ. YOU can't afford to be in the second group, for Eternity in Hell is timeless also.
You may be saying, "I don't believe any of this rubbish. That's only for wowsers and Bible-bashers." My dear friend, can I ask you this? WHAT IF IT IS TRUE? WHAT WILL YOU HAVE LOST OUT ON? WILL YOU RISK ALL OF ETERNITY BY NOT EVEN TRYING TO FIND OUT IF IT WERE CORRECT?
If the Bible is not correct, then I will have only missed out on living a life full of immorality, and headaches, heartaches and uncertainties, no peace of mind, no love for others, and so the list goes on. BUT, if the Bible is true, YOU have lost everything, for Eternity in Hell is forever! WILL YOU TAKE THE RISK? (Kevin, Ingham, Qld)
Where Will You Spend Eternity? Prepare for it now! Leave it not until you get sick- you may never get sick. Leave it not until you get more time- you may never get more time. Leave it not until you get old- you may never get old. Leave it not until the Spirit strive more powerfully- He may never strive again. Leave it not until tomorrow- this night thy soul may be required of thee. Do it now!
Dear Lord Jesus, I know I'm a sinner and not good enough to go to Heaven. I deserve only to go to Hell. But I thank You for loving me so much that You came down from Heaven and died on the cross for me- to pay my sin debt, so that I could have everlasting life, and a home in Heaven with You. I repent- have mercy upon me. Right now I do trust You as my Saviour. Thank You for loving me and saving me. Amen. (From Ron, Cobdogla, SA)
Is your passport for Eternity ready? You may need it sooner than you think!
By the grace of God I was permitted to contract poliomyelitis (yes, I consider this a blessing), and migrate here from a land of post-war poverty. God was at work - though I did not know it - molding and preparing me. After 39 years came testing time. Who would I follow? Where would my allegiance lie? With God or man?
There were many idols in the Roman Catholic Church, and these were worshipped. A Bible teacher challenged me that idols were contrary to God's commandment, and gave a Bible reference (Ex. 20:4-5). Like a true Catholic soldier, I set out to prove the man wrong. I took my Bible, acquired four years earlier, dusted it, and read the verses quoted. I was shocked and astonished at what I read. I believed the Bible and God. Immediately, I felt betrayed by the Catholic clergy, in whom I had placed my trust and the destiny of my soul. They had lied to me. It was a case of "the blind leading the blind".
The Ten Commandments of the Catholic Catechism don't include the one forbidding bowing down to or worshipping graven images. Catholics divide the tenth into two, to total Ten Commandments. Catholics for centuries were not permitted to read the Bible. To question and disobey Catholic teachings and dogma leads to excommunication, and damnation, as they say "it is necessary for salvation to be subject to the Roman Pontiff".
I carefully examined Catholic teachings concerning the Pope's claims of infallibility, as the servant of Jesus Christ. I reasoned that since a servant is not above his Master, he ought to obey whatever his Master teaches and directs. Obviously the Pope disobeys his Master's commandment not to make graven images, nor bow down to them, nor worship them. I concluded that the Pope was not God's servant nor representative. I decided in my heart right then and there to divorce myself from the Catholic church.
My wife, friends and I joined a Bible-based home fellowship. Soon after we were all baptised into the Lord Jesus Christ. My mother and brother demanded that I return to the faith I was born into. I was made an outcast, both by family and friends. Nevertheless, I have had the joy of helping a number of souls transfer from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light- the Kingdom of God. Allelu-ya! I thank our great God and Saviour that I have been permitted to live thus far and do His will. (Natale Polito, Childers, Qld)
Billions of people were scattered on a great plain before God's throne. Some of the groups near the front talked heatedly -- not crying with shame, but with belligerence.
"How can God judge us?" said one.
"What does He know about suffering?" snapped a brunette. She jerked back a sleeve to reveal a tattooed number from a Nazi concentration camp. "We endured terror, beatings, torture, death!"
In another group a black man lowered his collar. "What about this?" he demanded, showing an ugly rope burn. "Lynched for no crime but being black! We have suffered in slave ships, been wrenched from loved ones, toiled till death gave release."
Far out across the plains were hundreds of such groups. Each had a complaint against God for the evil and suffering He permitted in His world. How lucky God was to live in Heaven where there was no weeping, no fear, no hunger, no hatred! Indeed, what did God know about what man had been forced to endure in this world?
"After all, God leads a pretty sheltered life", they said.
So each group sent out a leader, chosen because he had suffered the most. There was a Jew, a black, an untouchable from India, an illegitimate, a person from Hiroshima, and one from a Siberian slave camp. In the centre of the plain they consulted with each other. At last they were ready to present their case.
It was rather simple; before God would be qualified to be their judge, He must endure what they had endured.
As each leader announced his portion of the sentence, loud murmurs of approval went up from the great throngs of people. But when the last had finished pronouncing sentence, there was a long silence. No one uttered a word. No one moved. For suddenly all knew...
God had already served His sentence.
(From Margaretha, Ararat, Vic)
I was in the a Geriatric Hospital, from 1980, after a nervous break down. I had no confidence that I could look after myself. I believed that I would never get out. But in 1990 I did. The Lord Jesus healed me.
When I decided that I could manage to look after myself, I applied for a Trust unit. The manager said that I would have a long wait, as there was a long list of applications before mine. But Praise the Lord I was able to leave the Hospital in 4 weeks. I was so thrilled. Our God is able- He is Jehovah Jireh - the Lord our Provider. I have been very active for the Lord ever since. In 1995 the Holy Spirit through me brought 19 souls to Christ. In the next year, 9. And this year 2 so far.
I have a "Promise Box", full of Scriptures. One day I came home from shopping and I sat at the table and said, "Father, I'm tired". I then took a "Promise", and it said, "He giveth His beloved sleep". I laughed. This cheered me up a lot.
I was sad and sighing, feeling really upset. A few times I was in tears. The Holy Spirit said, "Go and take a promise". The "Promise" said, "Fear not, for I am with you". My sorrow left, and I completely handed it over to the Lord, and He's taken it away. I am blessing the people who upset me, for we must not give evil for evil, but show love and let the Lord speak to them and make things right. He does make the rough places straight. My life is not dull or empty. I write letters and poems to the local paper. I know God is real. I will be 83 in November.
(Maisie Linn, Wallaroo, SA)
We Communists have a high casualty rate. We're the ones who get shot and hung and tarred and feathered and jailed and slandered, and ridiculed and fired from our jobs and in every other way made as uncomfortable as possible. A certain percentage of us get killed or imprisoned. We live in virtual poverty. We turn back to the party every penny we make above what is absolutely necessary to keep us alive. We Communists don't have the time or the money for many movies or concert, or T-bone steaks, or decent homes and new cars. We've been described as fanatics. Our lives are dominated by one overshadowing factor, the struggle for world Communism.
We Communists have a philosophy of life which no amount of money could buy. We have a cause to fight for, a definitive purpose of life. We subordinate our petty, personal selves into a great movement of humanity, and if our personal lives seem hard, or our egos appear to suffer through subordination to the party, then we are adequately compensated by the thought that each of us in his small way is contributing something new and true and better for mankind. There is one thing in which I am in dead earnest and that is the Communist cause. It is my life, my business, my religion, my hobby, my sweetheart, my wife and mistress, my bread and meat. I work at it in the daytime and dream of it at night. Its hold on me grows, not lessens as time goes on. Therefore I cannot carry on a friendship, a love affair, or even a conversation without regulating it to this force which both drives and guides my life. I evaluate people, books, ideas and actions according to how they affect the Communist cause and by their attitude toward it. I've already been in jail because of my ideas and if necessary, I'm ready to go before a firing squad.
(American College student writing to his fiancee to break off their engagement)
A zealous man in religion is pre-eminently a man of one thing. It is not enough to say that he is earnest, hearty, uncompromising, thorough-going, whole-hearted, fervent in spirit. He only sees one thing, he cares for one thing; he is swallowed up in one thing; and that one thing is to please God. Whether he lives, or whether he dies - whether he has health or whether he has sickness - whether he is rich or whether he is poor - whether he pleases man, or whether he gives offence - whether he is thought wise, or whether he is thought foolish - whether he gets blame, or whether he gets praise - whether he gets honour, or whether he gets shame - for all this the zealous man cares nothing at all. He burns for one thing; and that one thing is to please God, and to advance God's glory. If he is consumed in the very burning, he cares not for it - he is content. He feels that, like a lamp, he is made to burn; and if consumed in burning, he has but done the work for which God appointed him. (J.C. Ryle)
The United Nations seeks to unify the world as a socialist state, imposed on the general population by stealth and fear:
God said, "Tell them what is wrong, and why, and what is going to happen unless they have a change of heart and straighten up. Don't mince words. Give it to them good and strong, and keep on giving it to them.
"The official classes will turn up their noses at you, and the masses won't even listen...
"There is a Remnant there... obscure, unorganised, inarticulate. They need to be encouraged and braced up. Your preaching will reassure them and keep them hanging on. Your job is to take care of the Remnant. So be off now and set about it." (Albert Knock, News Weekly, 4/97)
Take a verse, paragraph, or chapter and ask:
We are acting as though the only remedy for decline were method, organisation, and compromise. The Church is failing to meet modern needs, grip the modern mind, and save modern life. The opportunities for the Church were never so glorious. The need for the Church was never so urgent.
The Church that is man-managed instead of God-governed is doomed to failure. When the Church is run on the same lines as a circus, there may be crowds, but there is no Shekinah. The energy of the flesh can run bazaars, organise amusements, and raise millions; but it is the presence of the Holy Spirit that makes a Temple of the Living God.
The gift of the Spirit is God's gift of power, for effective witnessing, holiness of life, and consecrated service. The work of the Spirit depends upon the power of the Spirit. No other power will do. The energy of the flesh cannot do the work of the Spirit. For His power there is no substitute. When Zion covets Babylonish gold, envies Babylonish garments, copies Babylonish ways, adopts Babylonish altars, and fights with Babylonish weapons, her strength fails because the Spirit of Power is lost. The one vital cause of failure in the Church is in the poverty of the spiritual life of its people.
Strange fire may be offered in sincerity and in good faith. Stage fire is a trick... a mockery and a pretence. Stage-lights have found their way into the Church. The red glare dazzles, but it does not burn. Fireworks are brilliant, but they end with the hour. No ideals are kindled, no ministry impelled, no sacrifice inspired. The pretence of spirituality is the worst profanity. Strange fire is less offensive than stage fire. A religion of mere emotion and sensationalism is the most terrible of all curses that can come upon any people.
Have we power over sin? The Spirit of Truth is the Spirit of Holiness. He sanctifies in truth. What has come of the doctrine of separation? If believers were filled with the Spirit, would they haunt the world's gaudy fountains and brackish springs? It is mockery to profess fullness, and go about panting with thirst and gasping with vanity. The ungodly no longer speak of chapels as "converting furnaces". The work of God cannot be accomplished without the fullness of the Spirit, and everywhere God waits to give His Holy Spirit to them that ask Him. The flood would sweep away all the rubbish, fill all the dykes, and fertilise all the desert. It is His will that every believer should be filled with the Spirit, overflow in the power of the Spirit, and in all things prevail through the Spirit. What hinders?
(From The Way to Pentecost, by Samuel Chadwick, dated 1932)
I planned an ultra-modern home..
but a Kampuchean
refugee whispered
"I have no home at all."
I dreamed of a country place for the pleasure of my children..
but a fugitive lad kept saying
"I have no country."
I decided on a new cupboard right now..
but a child of Africa cried out
"I have no cup."
I started to buy a new washing machine..
but an Indian woman said softly
"I have nothing to wash."
I wanted a freezer for storing quantities of food..
but across the waters came the cry
"I have no food."
I ordered a new car for the pleasure of my loved ones..
but an Arab orphan sobbed
"I have no loved ones."
I planned a stained glass window above the choir stalls..
but a Mexican pastor murmured softly
"My Church has no walls."
(Author unknown)
The latest National Church Life Survey reveals a decline in church membership. (W. Australian, 14/6/97)
The recent birth of a red heifer in Israel is being hailed by religious Jews as a sign from God that work can soon begin on building the Third Temple in Jerusalem. Since Herod's Temple was destroyed in AD 70, no flawless red heifer has ever been born in Israel, until now. Jewish activists expect to slaughter this heifer in a purification rite, and then rebuild the Temple to prepare the way for the Jewish Messiah. (SECW, 5/97)
A "revival of Methodism" is rumoured if evangelicals split from the Uniting Church (Australia's third biggest religious community). Many members oppose the weak stand on homosexuality in a recent Uniting Sexuality and Faith report.
The next Pope may be Frances Arinze, of Communist Nigeria, President of the Pontifical council for Inter-religious dialogue. He has strong links with Islam, and would be the first black Pope. (BBB, 6/97)
In the past decade approximately two million people, mostly Christians, have been killed in Sudan, and millions more have been forced into refugee camps. Christian homes are marked with an "X", a symbol for militant Muslims to literally bulldoze them.
Schools in Pakistan and Sudan are training students for Jihad- holy war. The Qur' an is the only subject taught. Only when a child is able to recite the entire Qur' an (about the size of a New Testament) do they graduate; this often takes up to nine years. Children who fall behind in their studies are kept in chains and subjected to barbaric torture. (VOM, 6/97)
Flying the Union Jack is now banned in UK schools. The crosses were seen as an insult to Islam. (Christian Democrats, 3/97)
As many as 100 mosques will be built in Britain by the end of the century at a cost of $1.6 to $4.8 million each. Britain already has some 1,000 mosques, but most are converted warehouses, churches, or community centres. The new ones will be built in classic Islamic design. (Christian News, 2/97)
According to the Qur' an (Sura 5:15), "People who say that Jesus was the Messiah or was God's son, or that a Christian is a child of God are idolaters who go to hell." (BBB, 6/97)
We are in an information explosion. More information has been generated in the last three decades than in all the previous 5000 put together. More and more television, Internet, home shopping... a complete library on one CD. (Light of Life, 6/97) New technology will bring some 500 TV channels to our homes.
Hospitals in China are selling aborted babies to be cooked and eaten. Dr Zou Qin claims to have eaten 100 babies in the past 6 months. (New Australia Times, 4/97)
Unethical Pentecostals are attending Gospel meetings in India, trying to attract interested folk to their own groups. (Missionary in Delhi, 11/96)
The NSW Homosexual Vilification Act, 1996 threatens fines of $40,000 per person, per offence. (Christian Democrats, 3/97)
Top hymns or songs of worship, in a Uniting Church poll, include Amazing Grace, Thine be the Glory, What a Friend we have in Jesus, and How Great Thou Art. Church spokesman, Stephen Webb, says the trend in many churches is a move away from the "heaven-hell Wesley hymns" toward contemporary "pop sort of music". (W. Australian, 24/6/97) Sadly, modern-day Christianity's "contemporary Christian" rock music, worldly beat, and its connotations, is a money-making "racket".
Years ago in England there was a preacher named Francis Dixson. One day in his church a young man, Peter, was asked to bring his testimony.
Peter said, "This is how I became a Christian. I was walking down George St, Sydney, and out of nowhere a little old white-haired man walked up to me and said, 'Pardon me - I'd like to say something to you, Sir. Do you know that you are going to live in eternity, either in Heaven or Hell? Do you know which one? It's serious, Sir. Would you think about it? That's all. Toot-al-oo!' I couldn't get that out of my mind and I went back to England and found a Christian who told me how to give my heart to Jesus Christ."
Not long after this, a mission team came to hold a series of meetings. Noel, a young team member, was asked to give his testimony. He said, "I was stationed in Sydney during World War II and I was in George Street and a little old white-haired man came out of nowhere and said, 'Excuse me - I hope I won't offend you, but I would like to ask you, do you know where you are going to spend eternity? It will either be in Heaven or Hell? Please think about it. That's all. Toot-al-oo!'" Peter told Noel afterwards, "You've got my testimony. That same white-haired man - that's how I found out I needed Jesus."
In Adelaide to preach, Dixson mentioned how the white-haired man had told the two young men that they needed to know Jesus Christ. As he told the story a man began to wave at him. As it was apparent that he wanted to say something, Mr Dixson said, "Sir, would you like to speak?" The man told exactly the same kind of testimony.
Francis Dixson said, "I went to Perth to preach and told about that man in Adelaide, as well as Peter and Noel. After I had finished my message a deacon in that church said, 'Let me give you my testimony' -- and he told me the very same thing these others had experienced."
Mr Dixson returned to preach in England and told the story again. When the service was over, a young woman came up and said: "I was stationed in Sydney, Australia, in the services, and as I was walking down George Street a little white-haired man came up out of nowhere and said: (relating the same experience)".
Speaking at England's Keswick Convention, Mr Dixson told about Peter, Noel, the man in Adelaide, the deacon in Perth, and the young woman stationed in Sydney during the war, and how that little white-haired man had led them all to Jesus Christ. A man walked up to him later and said: "I'm another one. I was walking down George Street, etc."
Dixson went to India and told the story. An old missionary came up to him and said, "Let me give you my testimony." It was exactly the same. Then in Jamaica, yet another man had the same testimony.
Later Francis Dixson came to Sydney, and asked about the little white-haired man who used approach people along George Street and ask them to consider where they were going to spend eternity. He found out that this was Mr Jenner, who didn't get on the street any more; and was almost blind. Mr Dixson asked if he could go to see Mr Jenner.
Dixson said: "I went into that little cottage, neatly kept, and sat down in the presence of Mr Jenner, the little white-haired man, and I told him: Peter's and Noel's testimony, the testimony of the man in Adelaide, the deacon in Perth, the woman in England, the man at Keswick, the missionary in India and the man in Jamaica. Mr Jenner began to cry and said, "I don't know how many thousands of times I've talked to people up and down George Street. This is the first time I ever knew anyone ever did give their heart to Jesus."
Francis Dixson said, "I walked down that street and I thought to myself, 'God raise up some more Mr Jenners. God, give us some more men and women who will walk up and down the streets of Sydney and throw out the net, in spite of fatigue, no matter how foolish they might have thought it was for the little white-haired man.'
"In Glory today, Mr Jenner is enjoying the company of those who walk the streets of Heaven. He came out of nowhere and threw out the net and people came to know God. Let's press on regardless!"
(From Les Harper, Mirrool, NSW)
We are a Salvation people. We believe in Salvation. We believe in the old-fashioned Salvation. Ours is just the same Salvation taught in the Bible, proclaimed by Prophets and Apostles, preached by Luther and Wesley and Whitefield, sealed by the blood of the martyrs - the very same Salvation that was purchased by the sufferings and agony and blood of the Son of God.
We believe the world needs it; this and this alone will set the world right. You don't need to mix up any other ingredients with the heavenly remedy. The world needs it. The worst man that ever walked will go to Heaven if he obtains it, and the best man that ever lived will go to Hell if he misses it. Oh, publish it abroad!
There is a Hell. A Hell as dark and terrible as is the description given of it by the lips of Jesus Christ, the Truthful. And into that Hell men are departing hour by hour. While we write men are going into eternal punishment. While we eat and drink, sleep and work, and rest, men are going where the worm dieth not, and where the fire is not quenched.
So wake up all the powers of your being, my brothers, and consecrate every awakened power to the very end of saving them. Be a Salvationist.
(William Booth, 1879)
And God said: Let us form man in Our image.
The world says: We must conform man in our image.
The devil says: I will deform man by sin.
Education says: Let us inform man by knowledge.
Society says: We will reform man by culture.
Only Christ says: I will transform man by love.
If God believed in today's permissiveness, He would have given us the Ten Suggestions.
When you kill time, remember it has no resurrection.
The church is full of willing people: 20% willing to work, and 80% willing to
let them.
1. Above you- to guard (Deut. 4:39).
2. Underneath- to support (Deut. 33:27).
3. Behind- as a rearguard (Isa. 52:12).
4. Before- to lead (Isa. 45:2).
5. At your right hand- to protect (Ps. 16:8, 110:5).
6. Round about- to shield (Ps. 125:2).
7. Within- as Companion and Comforter (Ez. 36:27, Gal. 2:20).
(Selected)
I have been suffering from eczema since the beginning of this year. I'd wake up itching so many times at night. Doctors were discouraged and told me, "Tough Kiddo". Some even suggested I give up dentistry (I'm in 4th year) because it was the stress and environmental irritants doing it. I almost felt like an invalid that needed to live "in a bubble".
God in His grace gave me caring friends who prayed zealously for me, and somehow one of my lecturers noticed my rashes and recommended her husband to me who was an immunologist, whose family were very Christian. He tested me for allergies and having found and avoided the allergens I'm free from the bondage of itch! Although life is difficult without eggs, chicken, soy, shellfish, chocolate, apple, spices, hazelnuts, cats and dogs, I'm coping. I'm also hypersensitive to dust and dust mites, which makes the world quite hostile to me. Still, I feel blessed because at least I don't suffer from a lot of tumours, etc, which my patients suffer.
Coming to grips with long term illnesses takes a lot of courage but with the help of "balcony people"- friends who always encourage you, and lean over the balcony to cheer you on even when you want to give up, life can be hopeful and liveable, making the tomorrows different and much better than the yesterdays. (Annetta, Eight Mile Plains, Qld)
(Found in Westminster Abbey, Nameless and Dateless.)
A nation would be truly blest if it were governed by no other laws than this blessed Book. It is so complete a system that nothing need be added to it, or taken from it. It contains most things needful to be known or done. It affords a copy for a king, and a rule for a subject. It gives instruction and counsel to a senate, authority and direction to a magistrate. It cautions a witness, requires an impartial verdict from the jury, and furnishes the judge with his sentence. It sets the husband as lord of the household, and the wife as mistress of the table; tells him how to rule, and her how to manage. It entails honour to parents, and enjoins obedience in children. It prescribes and limits the sway of the sovereign, the rule of the ruler, and the authority of the master; commands the subjects to honour, and the servants to obey, and promises the blessing and protection of its Author to all who walk by its rules. It promises food and raiment, and limits the use of both. It points out a faithful and eternal Guardian to the departing husband and father, tells him with whom to leave his fatherless children, and in whom his widow is to trust, and promises to be a Father to the former and a Husband to the latter. It defends the rights of all, and reveals vengeance to every defrauder, over-reacher and oppressor. It is the first Book, and the best Book and the oldest Book in the world. It contains the choicest matter, gives the best instruction, and affords the greatest pleasure and satisfaction that can be revealed. It contains the best laws and the profoundest mysteries that ever were perused. It brings the best tidings, and affords the best of comfort to the inquiring and disconsolate. It exhibits life and immortality, and shows the way to everlasting glory. It is a brief recital of all that is past, and is a certain prediction of what is to come. It settles all matters in debate, resolves all doubt, and eases the mind and conscience of all their scruples. It reveals the only and true God, shows the way to Him, sets aside all other gods, and describes the vanity of them, and of all who trust in them.
In short, it is a Book of laws to show right and wrong, a Book of wisdom that condemns all folly, and makes the foolish wise. A Book of truth that detects all lies and confronts all errors, and a Book of life that shows the way from everlasting death. It is the most compendious Book in the world, the most authentic and the most entertaining history that ever was published. It describes the celestial, terrestrial, and infernal worlds, human tribes and angelic myriads. It will instruct the most accomplished mechanic and the profoundest artist. It teaches the best rhetorician, and exercises the wisest anatomist and finds employment for the nicest critic. It corrects the vain philosopher, and guides the wise astronomer. It exposes the subtle sophist, and makes diviners mad. It is the best evidence that ever was produced, and best deed that ever was sealed, the best will that ever was made, and the best testament that ever was signed. To understand it is to be wise, indeed, but to be ignorant of it is to be destitute of wisdom. It is a complete code of laws, a perfect body of divinity, an unequalled narrative, a Book of lives, of travels and voyages. It is the king's best copy, the housewife's best guide, the servant's best directory, the young man's best companion, the schoolboy's spelling book, and the learned man's masterpiece. It affords knowledge of witty inventions for the ingenious and dark sayings for the grave. It encourages the wise, and the warrior; and promises an eternal reward to the conqueror. And that which crowns it all is - the Author is One in Whom is no variableness, nor the shadow of turning.
Be active- like the ants. They are no sluggards, and have no overseer but God. (Irene, Wallsend, NSW)
1. Smile, and say "Amen" every time he says something good. He will
preach himself to death.
2. Tell him what good work he is doing in the church and community. He will
work himself to death.
3. Increase your offering to the church. He will die of shock.
4. Tell him you've decided to help win souls for the Lord. He will probably
suffer a heart attack.
5. Get your whole church to band together and pray for him. He will get so efficient
that some other church will hear about him and give him a call. That will take
him off your hands. (SOL)
Live as in the sight of God (Gen. 24:40, 5:24).
Do nothing you would not like God to see (1 Cor. 10:31).
Say nothing you would not like God to hear (Ps. 141:3).
Sing nothing that will not be melodious in God's ear (Eph. 5:19).
Write nothing you would not like God to read (Ps. 139:2).
Go to no place where you would not like God to find you (Ps. 139:3).
Read no book of which you would not like God to say, "Show it to Me"
(Ps. 119:37).
(From Bob, Kingston, SA)
Help me, dear Lord, to be honest and true,
In all that I say and all that I do;
Give me the courage to do what is right,
To bring to the world a glimpse of Your Light.
(Joseph, Rockingham, WA)
I worked for a computer company for about 10 years. In this time I found that every management practice was deceptive. I blamed the company, and left. I later found that this company's practices were really just like all other businesses. Deception was just a natural part of business. So ingrained is the practice, for those successful in business, that it is almost impossible for them to see.
Then I saw that these deceptive business practices were supported by deceptive political practices. And finally I saw that these deceptive practices were global in nature - the New World Order.
I realised that the New World Order was an ever increasing ring of deception. I came to see that the source of this deception is not actually of this world - but satan himself. Once I concluded that there was a satan I naturally had to accept that there is a God, and this led me into belief in the Bible.
(Kerry, Surry Hills, NSW)
Dear Lord, please look on me today,
And bear me as I humbly pray.
My hand you'll note, are all aquiver.
Old age has settled in my liver.
My hair, you'll see, is turning grey,
And much of it has gone away.
Without my glasses all is blurred,
I cannot read a single word.
My hearing aid is wearing out;
I only answer when you shout.
My teeth have met a similar fate,
I've both an upper and lower plate.
And when I walk, though I disdain,
I can't go out without a cane.
It seems that my entire frame
Is either weak, or sore, or lame.
Why me, Lord?
Why this pain
Of aching back and ankle sprain?
Why me, Lord?
Why this disease
That stiffens up my hips and knees?
Why me, Lord?
Why must I swallow all these pills
For each of all my aches and ills,
And pay my monthly doctor's bills?
Why me, Lord?
It seems that I
may any day now have to die.
Why me, Lord?
Why this pain?
I'm waiting for You to explain.
(Time out- to wait and meditate)
Now as I wait and think of You,
A different focus comes to view.
As I remember how You died,
At Calvary were crucified;
I weep and bow my head in shame
That I should of my ills complain.
Then with Your help, amazed I find
That other questions come to mind.
Why me, Lord?
Why such love,
Showered upon me from above?
Why me, Lord?
Why do I have this comfy bed,
When others sleep outside, in dread?
Why me, Lord?
Why is my table spread
With luscious fruit and daily bread,
While millions hungry go to bed?
Why me, Lord?
That I am with a family blest,
When others are of friends bereft?
Why me, Lord?
Why did You choose
That I should hear the joyful news
That Jesus died for all my sins,
Was buried, then was raised again?
Why me, Lord?
That even I
Can fearless be when I must die?
Oh, Lord help me
That here and now,
I'll not ask why,
But humbly bow
To worship You,
And tell You how,
I thank You for Your tender care
To every tear and every prayer.
(Men at Work, 5/97)
A discouraged worker. Elijah under the juniper tree (1 K. 19:4).
A backsliding believer. Abraham in Egypt (Gen. 12:10).
A disobedient servant. Jonah in the great fish (Jonah 2).
A lazy saint. David on the house-top (2 Sam. 11:2).
A silenced witness. Lot in Sodom (Gen. 14:12).
A miserable disciple. Peter before the fire (Lk. 22:55).
God's Inspired Wordwill "forever" stand (Isa. 40:8); live and abide (1 P. 1:23); endure (1 P. 1:25); be settled (Ps. 119:89), and be preserved (Ps. 12:6-7; Mt. 24:35). God's Word is pure (Prov. 30:5). We can trust the divinely preserved, majestic, enduring beauty of the King James text. Modern Bible versions lack or alter key parts as warned against (2 Cor. 2:17, 11:4, 2 P. 3:16, 2 Cor. 4:1-4). Sixty-four thousand words are missing from the NIV (Mk. 4:15). This fosters apostasy, uncertainty, confusion and doubt. The King James text is supported by 95 percent of all manuscript evidence. It has been read, memorised, used and believed by more people than any other book in the world. Generations of Bible-believing Christians stand for the God-honoured, time-tested, fruit-bearing, life-changing, Christ-exalting, perfect, inerrant, inspired word of God.
The Bible brings spiritual growth (Acts 20:32), answered prayer (Jn. 15:7), certainty in doctrinal teaching (Jn. 17:17) and counselling (1 Th. 4:18). The Bible is the offensive weapon of the church (Eph. 6:17). It builds a clean church (Jn. 15:3) which expresses fruit (Jn. 6:63), and is prepared for the Judgment Seat of Christ (Jn. 12:48). (Info from Paul, Rockhampton, Qld)
I cannot say "our" if I live only for myself.
I cannot say "Father" if I do not endeavour each day to act like His
child.
I cannot say "Who art in Heaven" if I am laying up no treasure there.
I cannot say "Hallowed be Thy Name" if I am not striving for holiness.
I cannot say "Thy Kingdom come" if I am not doing all in my power
to hasten that wonderful event.
I cannot say "Thy will be done" if I am disobedient to His Word.
I cannot say "on earth as it is in Heaven" if I'll not serve Him here
and now.
I cannot say "give us this day our daily bread" if I am dishonest
or am seeking things by subterfuge.
I cannot say "forgive us our debts" if I harbour a grudge against
anyone.
I cannot say "lead us not into temptation" if I deliberately place
myself in its path.
I cannot say "Thine is the Kingdom" if I do not give the King the
loyalty due Him from a faithful subject.
I cannot attribute to Him "the power" if I fear what men may do.
I cannot ascribe to Him "the glory" if I'm seeking honour only for
myself, and cannot say "forever" if the horizon of my life is bounded
completely by time.
(From Penny, Northampton, WA)
To speak and receive encouraging words is needful for a healthy church, and for the emotional stability of all of us. However, when we rely on or crave after an exclusive diet of encouraging or pleasant words, refusing to be challenged, we turn into the "Church of nice words". Here respectability, legalism, or gullibility and deception, can comfortably colonise.
God's people said, "Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things... illusions" (Isa. 30:10).
We crave for "pats on the back" and messages that tickle our ears, "Give us fresh visions and revelations. Don't challenge us to have personal faith in Christ, or read God's Word and check if it is scripturally sound!"
God's prophets were not known for their ability to mince and sweeten God's words. Their role was to speak forth the mind of God, whether for consolation or rebuke. Theirs was a thankless task. They warned, pleaded, and challenged. Most times their messages were not welcomed. People wanted nice or pleasant words.
Is the church today much different? So often we crave a nice word from someone to lift and keep us going. Some churches, have an endless supply of palatable prophetic words to satisfy this craving. Love doesn't always come in the form of nice, encouraging words. Some of the kindest and wisest people I know cared enough to tell the truth, and sometimes that truth hurt! God is using some to bring a radical change - challenging us to get back to grass roots.
Why do people want nice or pleasant words? Could it be to justify complacency or to feed the senses with "spiritual fixes" and crave for new experiences?
To those who want a continual diet of nice words and personally refuse to bow to challenge, correction or warning... I plead with you... Nice, pleasant words have a place in God's church, but don't harden your hearts against the challenge to beware of deception (1 Jn. 4:1). When the Son of Man returns, will He find faith on earth - or something else? (Carol Goode, Holden Hill, SA)
I am astounded at the low standard of morals in the films coming out of tinsel-town. So-called harmless (PGR) movies have an abundance of swearing, and lewd, immoral messages. The sick and slick message being promoted by the screen idols is disrespect for parents, foul language, and low/no standards. Disney films are also part of the trend. Worldly fashions, films, and frolics flowing from the scum and sewers of Hollywood, as well as gushing in the grossest gutters of godless Australia are thoroughly tainted and "unfit for human consumption". TV is becoming an accursed thing (Josh. 7:13, Ps. 101:3).
A new book series offers the ultimate "gross-out". Barf-O-Rama books dwell on delightful themes such as vomit, defecation, and general grossness. Then there's Scholastic Book Club's Frankenstein monstrous make-up kit, Ghost Vision, and The Vanishing Vampire - being promoted even to children in Christian schools.
Another "hit" with the kids is the Goosebumps series of books. The horror stories desensitise youngsters to the occult and its dangers. Titles include: Monster Blood, The Haunted Mask, Ghost Camp, The Headless Ghost, and Vampire Breath.
"The No Rules- No Brains Generation?" Aussie youth are embracing American jerk culture- baggy pants, oversized T-shirt, peaked cap back-to-front, a vacant look on a defiant face. "The Village Idiot" syndrome (often with "fly-catcher" mouth) is a national social disaster. Today's typical teen is a unisex slob. The gross and disgusting is "in". "Shame on this generation!" Let's lift the standard! (Based on New Australia Times, 4/97)
The attention span of today's young people is a maximum of 13 minutes. (Record, 14/6/97)
Young people often find church too boring, or hard to understand. They live in an atmosphere of entertainment and peer pressure. Our world is increasingly addicted to gambling, smoking and alcohol. Sadly, there is a lack of clear standards on these things in the church. Youth need to hear honest discussions about controversial subjects. Let's help make Christianity relevant - and encourage youth to apply Christian values to real life.
The church... has become one of many institutions offering a view of the world and purpose for living. It has found itself in a supermarket situation in which many people feel no need to buy its products at all. (Believe it or Not - a study of Australian churches)
In many Australian churches today we witness excessive emotionalism, fanaticism, entertainment, rock music and other human works programs passed off as a replacement for the reality of Jesus Christ. (Alan, Mt Gambier, SA)
There is a growing trend towards a "Post-denominational church". People are tending to choose a church not so much on issues of doctrine, but on the facilities and programs on offer, and whether felt needs are being met. There is "a decline in serious theological thought on the part of the average Christian." (Ross Prout, New Life, 8/5/97)
Less than 5% of Australians ever enter a recognised Christian church. They are too busy making a living, attending a sporting function, watching television or following some "worthwhile" pursuit in life. In recent years the church has become a rather quaint anachronism that has lost its relativity as far as the masses are concerned. There is now a growing lack of understanding of what Christianity represents. Churches are increasingly emphasising entertainment and "enrichment" programs and the Word has become secondary to "experience" related issues. There is little difference between most church programs and the fellowship offered by non sectarian and non political social clubs. (From SECW, 5/97)
Let us hear the old time gospel truths proclaimed in fearless fashion and sinners will be truly converted. (Doug, Bexhill, NSW)
The church needs preachers who can strengthen people with God's Word, not just make them fall down and feel good for a short time, until the next "fix". (Bruce Armstrong)
Alistair from NSW rejoices that his pastor "preaches with utter conviction on the need to focus on Christ centred Truth. No Christless Gospel preaching unity at the expense of truth."
The church in Australia is being compromised by charismatic teaching... and extremes. We see the introduction of mindless choruses and rejection of the bona fide praise hymns of the church given to us by the Holy Spirit from deep experience and persecution. (Bob, Hackham, SA)
I meet with a small group of people and we study from the Bible. We take a chapter a week and ask questions- main theme, commands, promises, important parts, related passages, texts to learn. Am I obeying? Do I believe His promises? Where can I improve? It is a blessing. We write our answers individually in exercise books, and then come together and discuss. (Margaretha, Ararat, Vic)
I can see the day coming when all true Christians will bail out of "organised religion" and meet informally, as did the early saints. (Austin, Alice Springs, NT)
Home Church Network? "I would like to see a home fellowship network", writes Bruce Neumann (3 Joseph St, Murray Bridge, 5253). He invites others to contact, and share ideas.
We ought to gather a Master's minority, the faithful few, the company of the committed, a spearhead of expendables, the church within the church... We need to rally a Gideon's band... a remnant... a minority committed in holy desperation - a dedicated few to permeate and infiltrate the world as the salt of the earth. A nucleus of born-again, Spirit- filled, Bible-believing, Christ-centred, soul-winning disciples is the only answer today. (Vance Havner)
Wherever God erects a House of Prayer
The devil always builds a chapel there,
And 'twill be found, upon examination,
The latter has the largest congregation.
(Daniel Defoe)
I desired to be like those I thought were super-spiritual people. After the laying on of hands with tongues, my life was turned upside down. I was ignorant of the truth.
The experience felt so good. I took it as being totally and solely from God, despite it bringing on chronic insomnia, elated feelings, depression, inability to cope, loss of appetite, loss of weight, etc.
I knew something wasn't right. After praying and asking God to just take it all away, and give me only what He wanted I was released from my desire to speak in tongues. I knew this was to be the turning point in my life. After much study of the Bible and a resultant desire to know the truth, I became more stable, stronger, and mature in my faith in Christ. I learned about the false teachings, and the truth regarding tongues.
God has brought me through. I'm a changed person. I have a great desire to know and speak God's Word so much that it consumes me. All I had wanted before was to speak in tongues, just because others were doing it. My Christian life is far better. I'm a very active member of my local church, and I can pray better without tongues also.
The main thing I've learned is to test all experiences with the TRUTH of GOD'S WORD, for it is always true, but experiences can be false and can be from the devil himself. Christians, don't be deceived. The truth will set you free (Jn. 8:31-32). (Maree, Jurien, WA)
A family from Victoria, now in a Bible-based fellowship, report: "It is really good to hear again good, old hymns as well as selected choruses." Their former church, now closed down, was inclined towards Toronto, repeating, repeating, repeating choruses over again like a "mantra"- "till it becomes a part of you".
Some Christian friends of theirs, who went to hear Howard Browne, "actually saw the demons in this meeting under the seats in the audience. The whole family left and did not go back to the meetings. Their eyes were also opened concerning Benny Hinn's ministry... Keep praying for the true gift of discernment by the Holy Spirit, as the times in which we live are very dangerous and confusing... Persecution is just around the corner."
We certainly live in troubled times for the church. "Pseudo" shepherds now outnumber the sheep. The Toronto and faith movements have decimated many congregations and driven Gospel minded believers into the wilderness. Praise God that He is sovereign, and will reward those who will remain faithful to the end, and are overcomers in these evil days. (Alan, Nowra, NSW)
The wilderness is the way to Canaan. (Spurgeon)
A reader (Ineke, Nairne) has written to me supporting Fair Dinkum's strong stand, "vision, boldness, and conviction", whilst cautioning against "an attack on God's church". I agree, we must not attack God's true church, but the Bible calls us to "contend" for "the faith once delivered", so at times we have to be "positively negative". Especially since our generation "will not endure sound doctrine". It would be far easier to preach a pleasing message, and just "tickle ears".
There's so many excesses at both ends of the scale. Can we find a balance? Some churches have zeal without knowledge (Rom. 10:2), or form without power (2 T. 3:5).
I want a church which is alive, with spark, spontaneity, and meaningful, reverent worship, not rock beat, show and hype, nor dreary, formalistic ritual. Saints with friendliness not fakeness; welcoming sinners, without welcoming worldliness. A meeting with liberty and order; structure without stifling, or a confusing free-for-all. A sound Gospel message without add-ons, which is scriptural, but not legalistic. A way to respond for prayer without a circus show/carry on. Headship in place but not overlording. Praying for an awakening, but not manufacturing or pretending revival.
Churches need to relate and communicate the Gospel in a meaningful way with young people, but I don't advocate glitzy, pop-Gospel cliches and loud, manufactured signs and wonders which aren't Biblical, or genuine.
I see that the Holy Spirit is active and present in His church today, despite Toronto and its bizarre behaviours. Signs and wonders are no sure indication of His presence - the Bible cautions us against false end-time manifestations.
The "prophetic" movement is obsessed with moving in the spirit, anointing, spiritual warfare extremes, dreams and visions, etc. The Bible cautions us against false prophets. Tongues, and prophecy gifts have fulfilled their purpose in history. I believe that God still uses preachers as His messengers and representatives, and actively leads His people, essentially through His Word. We do not need extrabiblical revelations, because we have the sufficiency of Scripture (2 T. 3:16-17; Jn. 8:31-32; 2 P. 1:3). (There seems to be an increasing number of false prophets around- spiritualists and psychics being recently touted on TV programs as modern day "prophets".)
"Charismatic Chaos", title of a book I have recently read, is truly rife and dangerous. The charismatic movement, described by an FD reader as a "Trojan Horse" of Rome, is a dangerous ecumenical smokescreen.
After 16 years involvement, I now see flaws in Pentecostal teaching. Biblically illiterate, experience-centred believers go from one high to the next, fed on a diet of hype and make-believe. Wheelchair-bound saints and the infirm leave healing rallies the same way they came, feeling unjustly condemned for "lack of faith". People are not dramatically healed from obvious physical disabilities in such meetings. Real, "apostolic" power would empty hospitals and funeral parlours. I believe God does still heal, and work supernaturally in the lives of His people, but Bible study and experience show that it is not always God's will to heal. This teaching actually hinders true, soul-saving, Gospel preaching.
Amazing deception is flooding the church, with bizarre Toronto and Pensacola phenomena, and the unscriptural teachings of health-wealth preachers, Copeland, and Hinn. In describing the music of revival, Vineyard pastor Bill McCartney describes this new sound as originally given to the Beatles by God. The loud, hypnotic songs that they jerk, dance, jump, and shake to are New Age to the core.
I guess I must belong to what Steve Hill of Brownsville AOG calls the FBI - "Faultfinding Brothers International" (The End Times, 4/97, Charlotte, USA). I am staggered at what rhubarb is being taught. The focus is titillating experiences, emotional jolts, "slaying in the spirit", careless conduct, and lightness (Jer. 23:32). The "impartation junkies" who buy it return time after time to get more - running from one "mecca" to another, looking for a fix. Unbiblical "impartations", disruptive "manifestations", uncontrolled, indecent behaviour, and confusion are a poor substitute for genuine outreach programs and true spiritual awakening.
My God works in decency and in order. If we test the spirits, according to the Word of God, it certainly won't offend God. We desperately need Biblical revelation. We must get out our Bible and search for truth (Acts 17:11).
Much that is being promoted in churches today is questionable. Why are evangelical churches hosting a Seventh Day Adventist singing group, and joining in false unity with Mary-worshipping Catholics (whether tongue-talking ones or not)? Why the pre-occupation with expensive buildings? Why all the ecumenical activities- eg, Alpha course, Promise Keepers? Why the playing with the world- eg., Bush dances, square dancing, line dancing? Youth used to go out and give tracts- now they just want entertainment with a Christian veneer. Why the modern Bibles that water down the Word of God?
Why do so many Christians divorce and re-marry? Fornication and adultery is increasing. The Bible says be separate from the world - abstain from all appearance of evil. Christian men should not have long hair (1 Cor. 11:14). There is a trend of being casual, and "dressing down". There is no modesty or dress standard - women are dressing like men, and men like women. There is sin in the camp. Where is the self-denial, separation, cross-bearing, the preaching of a real, burning Hell, and a soul-winning faith that can endure persecution? God is calling out a Remnant!
The bizarre and weird is becoming the accepted and orthodox. A recent hit on the top of the Christian pops is "Jesus Freak". My dictionary defines freak as, "abnormal... drug user". Not a word I would use in connection with my Lord Jesus Christ!
Some, no doubt, will "take issue" with the challenges in this issue, but I must urge every genuine reader of these alarming trends. I'm not out to "win a popularity contest". We won't settle for the lowest common denominator, the happy medium, or the middle of the road. We will stick our neck out. We will not ride the wave - we will swim against the tide. We will not pull any punches. We will not take the line of least resistance. We will stand our ground. We will not retreat. We mean business. We follow in the train of the non-conformists, the dissenters, and the old-fashioned "Protestants". We will be "Fair Dinkum".
This magazine is not out to please people at the expense of the truth. Sad to say, one can search many Christian bookshops in vain for sound doctrinal study material - it just doesn't "sell". Thanks to the faithful readers who pray and encourage us to keep on publishing against compromise and false unity (2 Cor. 6:15), and to keep preaching the unpopular message of repentance and true soul-saving faith in Christ. (Ed.)
We are in desperate need of those who will go out into the streets and raise their voices like trumpets. Urgent preaching - crying out against sin and an apostate, compromised and lukewarm church, calling to repentance, preaching on fleeing from the wrath to com e- is vitally needed in our land today. The preaching of Jesus Christ and Him crucified - the full counsel of God's Word - we must return to these things!! Newsletters won't suffice, neither will talking - we have to get out there and do it. May God mightily lead, empower, embolden and strengthen us for what He wants us to do. (Cheryl, Margate, Qld)
A corrupt country, going down the tubes...
Every week in Australia there are more than 1000 divorces. (W. Australian,
31/7/97)
Australia currently has a national debt of some $200 billion. (Christian
Enquirer, 4/97)
Our foreign ownership is 90%, Japan's is 2%. (GCC, 4/97)
Sodomy, the sin that brought the judgment of God on Sodom and Gomorrah, has been legalised. Anti-discrimination legislation will make it illegal to oppose people spreading the cancer of such perversions. "As it was in the days of Lot, so shall it be in the days of the coming of the Son of Man", Amen, "Even so COME LORD JESUS!" (Charles, Yolla)
When I was in high school, I became involved in the charismatic scene. At 21, I had a tumour in my lower abdomen. It was traumatic. I turned to the church leaders - who'd been strongly teaching healing. They just looked at me. I did not wake up to the system then. I was made to come under guilt - to think it was my (lack of) faith.
These people and their heirarchy, and their spirit, have a growing influence.
People's lives and faith are being crushed by such religious systems. Please
ask readers to pray for me. (Brother B., country town, SA)
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