Pastor's Perspective Blog

Transitions

2009-08-06T23:34:02Z

"While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease." Gen 8:22 (NKJV)

"He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30 (NKJV)

"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" 2 Tim 2:1-2 (NKJV)

Can you imagine, we can observe the same starry skies that Abraham saw when God took him outside his tent and asked him to count the stars? From one generation to another, those celestial points of light have guided the way for explorers as well as, the common man. The constellations have remained largely unchanged throughout the centuries. They have been a chart, a map, a beauty and a joy to all those who take the time to look.

This is the great thing about God. The message and the purposes of God remain unchanged while his messengers take turns on the planet. The actors change but the stage remains the same and the show must go on. William Shakespeare said,

"Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player who frets and struts his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more. Tis a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing."

Such pessimism could get a hold of anyone without divine revelation of the greater purpose of life. But we do know for sure that the persons involved in the unfolding history of man will frequently change while the platform of purpose will go on.

The night sky is a temporary glimpse into eternity. It helps us see the immutability of God and His plans. He does not change. But He does entrust new generations with His supernatural abilities to carry His intentions to the ends of the earth. These are transitions and there have been great ones.

Life on planet earth is full of transitions. If there is one consistent characteristic of this earthly life, it is change, and that change is constant, as one season flows into another on a repeated cycle.

In life, there are transitions in family. Not necessarily planned - the time just comes and families adjust. They are like pieces of the puzzle that must be placed and fit in order to go on functioning and nourishing the family unit.

In the family of God, life goes on, but leadership must change carefully and prayerfully in order to maintain Holy Ghost momentum and a strong biblical foundation from one generation to the next. John the Baptist knew he was scheduled to transition at the coming of the Messiah. Jesus made a major transition when He commissioned His apostles and disciples, poured out the necessary power upon them and ascended into heaven.

The apostle Paul describes passing the torch from himself to his son in the faith, Timothy, who was also commissioned to find faithful men who would have the ability to teach others also. And thus the history of the church has brought us through multiple generations. There were others- Paul and Apollos, Abraham to Isaac, Jacob to Joseph, Moses to Joshua, David to Solomon- one kingdom to another, one patriarch to another, one father to a son and so on.

In selecting successors to carry his truth, the Lord looks through time for star-gazers. They must see the same stars Abraham saw. In today's smog filled world, these new leaders may have to scale a mountain or find a dark and deserted place- in order to see clearly. But they must see what other visionaries have seen- the stars, the constellations, the lights, the hope, the future. When the Lord finds those kind of eyes, He reveals things to them that will enable them to navigate the pathways of change in order to stay on the chart of the unchanging ways of the Star-maker.

Here we go again. Time to change. But fear not. The stars have not moved, the purposes of God are still at work and the Lord who called the past few generations, is calling yet another one- to step up and lead with stars in their eyes.

When Faith is Faith

2009-05-05T22:58:00Z

If you have been a follower of Jesus very long, there is one thing you have probably learned, or will learn soon- that faith is not faith until it is tested. The Bible says the testing of our faith produces something in us. The Word of God is a record of people whose faith was tested in a multiplicity of ways over the centuries of human history. Job may be the oldest written record of a man of God whose faith was tested and in the end, he came forth like gold!

Saying we have faith is one thing. Living out our faith is quite another. It is easy for example, to say we believe in healing until we are sick! Or it is easy to believe that God provides for His children until there is an economic crisis! It also may be easy to believe that God forgives all our sins until we do something so shameful we feel that even God cannot forgive us.

The truth is, we don't need faith for the possible, but rather for the impossible. When circumstances and situations around us become challenging or grim, that's when we find out what kind of faith we really have.

We are living on planet earth constantly barraged with tests, trials and temptations that put a strain on the best of us. The trauma of life is not meant to discourage us but rather embolden us to exercise our faith in a mighty God and believe for His divine and loving intervention in our problems. He can indeed forgive our iniquities, heal our diseases and provide for all our needs.

Whether today's stress for you is the economy, a flu epidemic or typical pressures of family, business and life, God's Word and His promises are still available to build your faith, impart courage and help you make it all the way through your test. We reject every spirit of fear and embrace the spirit of power, love and sound mind that the Lord gives to all who trust Him. May the Lord be with you as you pass every test you may be facing!

Tough Times, Tough Faith

2009-02-14T11:26:25Z

Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. 3 You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. 4 So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. 5 If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. 6 Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves. 7 Don't think you're going to get anything from the Master that way, 8 adrift at sea, keeping all your options open. James 1:2-8 (MSG)

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Phil 4:11-13 (NIV)

If you live long enough, you will endure many hard times. Life is good, but there are always difficult and challenging things that every earth-dweller encounters. We live on planet earth- a physical realm dominated by sin and darkness, where storms and resistance seem to rule and problems and troubles are commonplace.

The Patriarch Jacob lived one hundred thirty years but said his days were few and evil. King Solomon said that if a man lived many years, let him remember the days of darkness, for they will be many. Jesus prophesied of days coming on the earth when men's hearts will fail them for fear. The Apostles wrote letters and described perilous and stressful times that would come.

In today's global economic crisis, we find ourselves in the middle of one of the most challenging situations many of us have ever experienced in our lifetime. But before we give in to depression, we need to recall that the Bible is filled with hope and faith and an optimistic view of how life should be lived- even in the face of adversity.

Most baby boomers and their children cannot recall many difficult financial years. A few older saints might still be alive who were children during the great depression. Today, we all struggling to varying degrees as we go through the current economic calamity. Some of us have lost jobs, houses, retirement accounts or value of some kind. These kind of hard times can shake our faith and make us ask hard questions but as people of faith, we need the divine perspective to get us through.

The perspective we need is a much more long term one- i.e. one that spans most of human history. In the Bible, for example, there were several famines, many in the Old Testament and a few in the New. But in the midst of each of them the Lord supernaturally provided for His people.

God provided for Abraham in a time of famine.
Isaac sowed and reaped 100 fold in a time of famine
God provided for the prophets Elijah and Elisha and the widow chosen to help them in famine
The Churches of Asia sent aid to Jerusalem and the Judean brethren during a great famine

Financial gurus, wall street brokers, heads of the nation's most prestigious banks and some of the brightest minds of our times are all in a quandary about how to solve the present emergency. It seems that "all the king's horses and all the king's men" cannot put our economy back together again. The same hurricane that is blowing against us is also blowing down the house down next door. But Jesus said if we obey Him and practice what He says, we will build on a foundation that will weather the storms and remain standing when everything around us is being washed away. If we follow God's divine principles and stay connected with a community of believers who are walking in truth, we will make it through this crisis- just as millions have done before us. Our fathers survived the ancient crises of the Old Testament. Prophets were miraculously provided for during famine. And the early church disciples endured many and varied trials and came through them all victoriously. If they made it we can make it.

From a biblical perspective, how do we get through such severe financial catastrophe?

Remember first, we all need community, a local church of loving friends and family of believers to stand with us. When one is lacking, others provide. In the very first church, there was none that lacked because they met each other's needs out a selfless desire to help.

Believers also have a secret advantage. We have a divine connection with the provision of God Almighty through our prayers. Simple asking evokes simple provision. The same God who multiplied loaves and fishes for Jesus and the disciples, is the same God we serve. Ask and you shall receive!

How important it is also to renew our minds and think God's thoughts when facing a crisis. If we spend our time just meditating on the bad news, we will be discouraged and our faith will be drained. But faith comes when we hear the Word of the Lord, made alive by the Holy Spirit and giving us daily guidance.

Out of the faith base of the Bible, a personal relationship with the Lord and the connections of a community of believers, sprouts another crop that blossoms in the heart of every faith filled follower of Christ. Wisdom comes from God. It comes when we meditate day and night on His Word and it comes from walking with wise men. . One decision can make or break a family's finances or a business's momentum. Don't make major decisions alone, in time of crisis. Seek the Lord, ask for counsel and make sure and careful steps during these times.

Lastly, don't stop doing what got you this far. We tithed by faith trusting our Heavenly Father to keep the windows of heaven open over our lives. We gave and sowed seed into the lives and needs of others. We can now trust that the harvest of what we planted will come back to us. And no one who has given to the poor will be forgotten by God. He Himself will repay anything we have given in His name to those in need. If, in a time of testing, I panic and start to withhold, I run the risk of stopping with life giving flow of faith and love that runs through my life.

There are many practical things each of us can do to walk wisely during times like these but the greatest thing we can do, is position ourselves in faith to maintain our trust in God, Jehovah Jireh, who has always helped us and always will. Going through tough times- ask God to give you tougher faith; fight the good fight of faith and take a stand. The storm will pass. Your foundation will remain and your life will reflect the pleasure of God who rewards those who walk by faith!

Honor Your Mother

2008-12-21T12:49:38Z

Honor ... your mother, that your days may be long upon the land Ex 20:12 (NKJV)

Do not forsake the law of your mother; Prov 1:8 (NKJV)

Treat older women as mothers, 1 Tim 5:1-2 (NIV)

This week our spiritual mother, Edie Iverson, was promoted to heaven. While I am saddened beyond words, I am so proud of her strong faith and confident of her rich reward and the great entourage of saints who are welcoming her into paradise and the sweet presence of Jesus.

Gini and I first made her acquaintance when we were newly married and fresh out of Nazarene College in 1972. We were 19 and 22 respectively and in awe of the anointed Pastors we discovered in a dynamic charismatic church in northeast Portland, Oregon. The church was filled with young adults hungry for more of God during the "Jesus People" days of the worldwide charismatic renewal. Many of those earnest young men and women would become life-long friends in the ministry of the Gospel. We were all just beginning the journey of being mentored and equipped by Dick and Edie Iverson, two of God's most wonderful servants who were so genuine and sincere, that their love and transparency captivated our hearts. At the crossroads of our young lives, little did we realize that our destiny would be forever altered because of meeting the Iversons.

Brother Dick, as we affectionately call him, would become our spiritual Father, and Sister Edie our second Mom. At a time when so many of our generation were searching for role models, we were blessed to find them. When so many were missing parents, coming from broken homes, we were given an extra set of spiritual parents, as wonderful gifts who would radically change our lives.

While Brother Dick was busy preaching, teaching and leading the growing church (Bible Temple would ultimately grow into a mega church of over 2000 people), Edie was behind the scenes counseling, exhorting, encouraging, coaching and building us up. While leading worship she often exhorted the congregation, her best gifts were words of wisdom and faith and an ability to keep us on track and fruitful in all our endeavors.

Both Gini and I have fond memories of Edie leaning close and telling us we could do it. Our novice eyes were widened by her words and our spirits fed by her love. Her confidence in us, combined with a discerning gift for admonition, guided us through the early years of ministry development, marriage and raising our children. She inherited an unflagging and determined faith from her remarkable mother and passed that along to us. I recall, just a few years ago, coming to the realization as to the source of the gift of faith that operates in my own life. I realized it had been imparted and stirred up in me by my spiritual mother as well as my spiritual father. I am especially and forever indebted to Edie Iverson for faith. Is there a greater gift?

Recently, visiting and praying with her in the hospital, we talked but she didn't talk about herself. She wanted to know how we were doing. Was I taking care of myself? Was my faith strong? I didn't weep there in the room. I needed to stand strong in faith for my mother. But I wept later, realizing how our lives had been blessed by this extraordinary woman. I weep today knowing I am who I am to some degree, because of my spiritual Mother, Edie Iverson. I honor my mother. I will not forget her laws. And I look forward to seeing her again and celebrating, when faith becomes sight. Edie Iverson's Homegoing is scheduled for:
Saturday, December 27, 2008
1:00 PM
City Bible Church
Portland, Oregon

Honor The King

2008-11-06T10:25:27Z

Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV)

November 4th 2008 was an historic day for America and one we will not soon forget. We congratulate President-elect Obama and his historic achievement and rise to power. To have a vibrant young African-American in the White House is an amazing occurrence and speaks well of a measure of progress our culture has made in racial issues.

There may be no other President in modern time that has needed prayer more than this man. This President will be faced with a global financial crisis, ongoing terror threats, wars to resolve, international troubles and domestic confusion. He needs the prayers of God's people.

I have lived through 12 Presidents in my lifetime. Temporary leaders come and go. And yet life goes on and the Kingdom of God still functions and God still rules in the affairs of men. No matter who wins elections God rules over nations. The Bible tells us that the heart of kings is in the hand of the Lord and the Lord can influence them. We are to honor the King and so we pray! In accordance with Scriptural injunctions, we pray for those in authority, for our President, our congressmen, our Governors and our elected officials. We celebrate their achievements and pledge our support in prayer. They are public servants and need divine assistance.

However, we are concerned with the potential loss of religious freedoms and disintegrations of our moral foundations. And thus we continue our prayers -- fervent prayers -- resisting and standing against wicked principalities and powers that would like to seduce and manipulate politicians, leaders and people. This is why the church still prays!

Our prayers will be answered, but perhaps not as we thought. God surely answers sincere and fervent prayers and will intervene if we continue to stand in the gap and pray for our nation. We should continue to trust God for His intervention in our generation.

President Obama is certainly a God-fearing man who could be greatly influenced for good if enough people will pray and if the right people surround him with good counsel. Let us agree in prayer that good men and women will indeed fill those positions of power and influence our new President for righteousness.

May God continue to bless America. ### Hot Questions and Cool Answers

Should we pray for leaders with whom we disagree? Even more so! The Bible doesn't qualify what kind of kings we should pray for- just that we should pray! (1 Timothy 2:1-4)

How can we help influence leaders toward making good decisions regarding their policies? First we give them prayer support (1 Tim. 2:1). Secondly we pray against the evil influence of wicked spirits in their minds (Eph. 6:12). Third we can actively communicate with our congressional leaders through writing (Matt. 5:13,14). Fourth, take public stands against evil deeds (Dan. 3:17,18). And fifth, vote in the next election.

Should Christians be involved in politics? Absolutely. Believers should conscientiously be involved in both political parties and do their best to be salt and light in a darkened and tasteless society (Matt. 5:13,14). It is imperative however that disciples of Jesus be bathed in the Holy Spirit and well versed in the scriptures, so they have a sound world view from which to speak and act.

Great Resource

"Honor's Reward" by John Bevere
Bestselling author John Bevere unveils the power and truth of an often-overlooked principle-the spiritual law of honor. Bevere explains that understanding the vital role of this virtue will enable readers to attract blessing both now and for eternity. Order from Amazon.com

Principles Over Politics

2008-10-29T10:11:14Z

Within days we will face one of America's most important elections. There is much at stake in this current generation. And in the midst of this national decision making process, our nation's economy has suffered a near catastrophic backlash because of greed. Other issues confront us as well: an unpopular war in the middle east; ongoing threats of terrorism worldwide; as well as need all around us. Every sensible believer should be gravely concerned about this election and desire that right would prevail in our culture.

As Christians we are citizens of heaven. We are part of the kingdom of God. We are not Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Green or Orange. Nor is any political party platform sacrosanct. The two dominant political parties in the USA have both good and bad, and strong and weak planks in their party's platforms. It is only the Kingdom of God and its abiding principles that can guide the believer.

We obviously need Kingdom representatives in both political parties in order to fulfill Christ's directive that we would be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world" (Matthew 5). But our party is the Kingdom of God, and our platform is the Bible. We have to be discrete and careful in determining our views. We cannot, for example, be enamored by a political candidate and fail to evaluate his or her values. Our opinions of what is happening in the world, or how to fix the problems of the world, must be bathed in prayer and soaked in truth.

We are believers in Jesus. We've been born again into a new Kingdom. We have said that our life is now Christ's. We took up a cross and declared that we would live for Him and not for ourselves. We are believers whose faith comes from the Word of God and not the words of men. Our politics must be governed by principle not opinion.

Political Perspective

For the LORD is our Judge,
The LORD is our Lawgiver,
The LORD is our King;
He will save us; Isaiah 33:22 (NKJV)

Our political system in the United States was based on the revelation of Isaiah 33:22, received and conceived by the founding fathers in their deliberations during the drafting of the original constitution of the United States of America. The Scripture describes the three aspects of God's rule over His people and hence the design used for the three branches of our national government: the Judicial, the Legislative, and the Executive branches.

Obviously our United States government is ruled as a democracy by the vote of the people. So we vote in our lawmakers and our executives. However, we do not always choose our Judges, as many, especially the Supreme Court, are appointed to their office.

This is the major and decisive aspect of what we are voting for this week. The person elected to the Presidency of the United States for the next four years (or perhaps eight) could possibly make two or three appointments to an aging Supreme Court. And with the trend toward choosing younger judges, these choices could affect the national judgments of the next thirty to forty years -- an entire generation. This is why we need to vote, and vote wisely and prayerfully, guided by principle.

How should we then Vote?

When considering a conscientious vote, believers should consult the Word of God as well as the leading of the Holy Spirit to determine righteous action. Our vote should be determined on the basis of principle, i.e. what Scriptures are behind the issues or candidates or platforms that are being considered? A true follower of the Lord would be careful to determine the principles behind their vote. They should not vote on the basis of opinion or tradition or emotion. They should determine their view based on truth, i.e. revelation of life principles as declared and delineated in the Scriptures.

Using the precepts and truths of the Bible, the infallible Word of God, we should focus on the following principles as we process our politics:

Pray for and Honor the King!

Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV)

All of us should vote and be good citizens.

Pray that believers and good people everywhere will be responsible, act wisely and get out and vote.
Pray for those in authority!

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 1 Tim 2:1-2 (NKJV)

This is our first responsibility as citizens of a nation, is to pray for those whom God has allowed into office

Pray that God will raise up God-fearing persons into high offices throughout our land
Pray that righteousness will exalt our nation!

Righteousness exalts a nation,
But sin is a reproach to any people. Prov 14:34 (NKJV)

It is not the level of our economy, or the size of our military that exalts us- it is righteousness.

Thus we should pray for the protection of the unborn and protection of the foundation of marriage and the family.
Don't wrestle flesh and blood but pray against evil forces!

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Eph 6:12 (NKJV)

We are not wrestling people. We can act with kindness and respect toward people, while at the same time praying effectively and ruthlessly against principalities and powers in high places.

Pray against evil, anti-Christ spirits, that they will be defeated and that demonic schemes will not prosper.

Pray against every evil curse and pray a blessing on our nation.
Pray that God's people will repent and turn from their wicked ways!

If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chron 7:14 (NKJV)

The responsibility for the healing of the land is upon God's people. We need to take our place humbly at the feet of Jesus and ask for His mercy and His healing for our land.

Pray for a great awakening among God's people, and that churches across America will pray and seek the face of God and repent of sin.

Other practical Prayer Points:

Pray for millions of believers to be stirred to prayer and fasting this week.
Pray for a miraculous turnout of God-fearing people for the vote across the nation, in every state
Pray that all people will be influenced in their minds in a righteous way when they go to cast their ballots
Pray that ballot measures to protect life and to protect marriage will pass nationwide
Pray against any evil spirits of racism that would try to take advantage of this time to stir violence and anger among our population
Pray for righteous Executives to be elected- including President and Governors nationwide, so that righteous judges will be appointed for this next generation

Across America, millions of believers are praying for divine intervention in this election. We are one church among thousands that are calling their people to prayer. I trust you will join this historic spiritual effort to see His Kingdom come and His will be done in the earth. ### Resources

SPECIAL MESSAGE: Listen to a recent message by Dr. Wendell Smith, "Big God of the Nations"

SPECIAL PRAYER TIMES: We are praying, fasting and seeking the Lord this week. Please join us everyday at NOON in the Kirkland Auditorium for concerted and focused times of prayer through Wednesday November 5th around the altars of the Kirkland campus.

Hot Questions and Cool Answers

Should Christians be Democrats or Republicans? Political party affiliation is not the issue. All parties should have active Christians involved if conscientiously possible, in order to be what Jesus said we were to be- i.e. "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world". The real issue in politics is to cast votes on the basis of biblical principle and not the traditions of men (Mark 7:8-13).

Whose opinion is right and who can we trust? We should read the motto on our own currency and practice that- i.e. trust in the Lord! Technically no opinion is completely error free except for God's- i.e. truth as revealed to us in the Bible. We need to avoid being wise in our own opinions since none of us have adequate answers or solutions for the complex problems of today's world (Romans 12:16).

Which Presidential candidate should we vote for in November? Voting is a matter of personal conscience. (But being good stewards is a matter of faith- e.g. Matthew 25:14-30 ) When we wake up on Tuesday morning across our nation to cast our ballots (for any political position, and at any level), we should consider, "will this person protect the sanctity of life and the righteous foundations upon which our nation was built"? Then, no matter who wins, we are to honor the King (or President) and "pray for all those in authority" (1 Timothy 2:1,2) and begin praying for our new leaders the day after the election!

Scandal and Restoration

2008-09-12T01:16:32Z

Recent developments in two major ministries have brought more scandal to the Body of Christ and the Christian Church around the world. Evangelist Todd Bentley, leading what had been called the Lakeland (Florida) Revival, has stepped aside from ministry because of alleged immorality and subsequent marriage problems. Mike Guglielmucci, a Youth Pastor and well known song writer in Australia, has confessed to fraud, deceiving friends, family and thousands around the world, lying about having had cancer. These two scandals were discovered within the same week.

Critics will no doubt use these revelations to bring further accusations against the charismatic elements of the Church. Others may become disillusioned, angry and even bitter about what has happened and give up on the Church. Many will at least be confused and distraught by these turn of events.

When the New Testament describes these kinds of occurrences, it uses a Greek word that is interpreted "offended" but it literally means stumbling block. The word, transliterated is "scandalon". Jesus prophesied that many would be scandalized in the last days (Matt. 24:10). Scandals happen. People stumble. Hearts are broken. Offenses occur. But life goes on.

And what did we expect? The church is built on people. Most believers live good lives, serving the Lord and walking out their faith over a lifetime. But some crash and burn. Some falter. Some fail. Some cause offenses.

This isn't the first time this has happened. I'm not speaking about recent years. No, as soon as the early church was birthed, there were people problems and scandals. The first mention of the devil in the church was when Ananias and his wife lied to the apostles and to the Holy Spirit about their giving, and were instantly judged by God. Scandal rocked the very first church.

It didn't stop there. Later Demas, who had been privileged to travel with the Apostle Paul, and had become well known because of that association, deserted him and went carnal. He backslid into sin and became enamored with that present world.

Acts the fifteenth chapter records the story of Barnabas having a falling out with the apostle Paul. They had such a heated argument that the two ministers separated and went different ways. Barnabas was never heard of again in the New Testament record.

Throughout most of Church history, as well, there have been scandals and spiritual disappointments. Our generation is not immune to these same kinds of problems. And so, the issue is not concern over what has happened as much as it is our response to what has happened. These are potential stumbling blocks. But don't stumble. Don't be easily offended. Don't get discouraged. And don't quit. Everyday thousands of aircraft fly successfully to their destinations around the world. Most people don't quit flying because an airplane crashes.

What is our response? First, we believe in restoration and we should pray that the fallen individuals be healed and restored as part of our spiritual family; "restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness" (Gal. 6:1a). We don't shoot our wounded. All of us have done things worthy of judgment, but the Lord had mercy on us (1 Timothy 1:13; Matt. 18:33).

Secondly, fear the Lord- and do as the scripture admonishes us- "considering yourselves lest you also be tempted" (Gal. 6:1b). Is there any secret sin we are harboring that needs exposure and forgiveness? We should seek counsel and confess our faults to those who can pray for us (James 5:16).

And thirdly, encourage one another to live righteously and godly in this evil age. We should "exhort one another daily, while it is called 'Today,' lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin" (Hebrews 3:13). Let's watch out for each other and be loving enough to confront when a brother or sister starts to get off course. That happens in a good local church, and in a group small enough to look in each other's faces, place a hand on a shoulder and pray a prayer of covering and love.

Jesus is still building His church. He is still the Head, the Master, the Savior and Lord! Maybe we should have been keeping our eyes on Him all along.

Hot Questions and Cool Answers

What did you think of the Florida Revival? And will it continue? I think it was genuine, with authentic healings. Although there was questionable doctrine promoted at times, many people were helped in the name of the Lord. Revivals historically are plagued with accompanying excesses and ample criticism but overall they help move the Church closer to a lost and needed truth. I am also thankful a group of godly Pastors stepped in to provide accountability for the Evangelist and subsequently provide covering ("love covers a multitude of sins") and correction for him. We pray that true restoration will work effectively in his life (Gal. 6:1-5).

Should we still sing Mike Guglielmucci's song, "The Healer"? Of course! That beautiful song belongs to the Body of Christ, and besides it was the cry of a sin sick soul that really did need the Lord to heal, (Psalm 41:3,4). ### Further study

See Matthew 24:10

Scandalidzo: to offend; to cause a person to begin to distrust and desert one whom he ought to trust and obey -Strong's Greek & Hebrew Dictionary Greek Strong's Number: 4624 Greek Word: skandalizw Transliteration: skandalizo

1) to put a stumbling block or impediment in the way, upon which another may trip and fall, metaph. to offend 1a) to entice to sin 1b) to cause a person to begin to distrust and desert one whom he ought to trust and obey 1b1) to cause to fall away 1b2) to be offended in one, i.e. to see in another what I disapprove of and what hinders me from acknowledging his authority 1b3) to cause one to judge unfavourably or unjustly of another 1c) since one who stumbles or whose foot gets entangled feels annoyed 1c1) to cause one displeasure at a thing 1c2) to make indignant 1c3) to be displeased, indignant -Strong's Greek & Hebrew Dictionary

When Loved Ones Die

2008-02-17T06:39:01Z

This past week was a challenging week for me and many members of our church. While I have been preaching the message of healing from the pulpit over the past few weeks, the devil is still at work attempting to steal, kill and destroy.

One of the dear sisters of our church and a wonderful mother and wife suffered an undetected heart attack and went home to be with Jesus on the weekend. Another dynamic young Pastor's wife passed into eternity after battling cancer for several months. Many people prayed fervently, cried out to God and did everything they knew to secure healing for these women of God. But they died. They departed from us and went home to be with the Lord in Heaven.

While we stand firm on the promises of God regarding healing, we are often faced with the conundrum of a loved one who is not healed and dies of disease. This experience can either drive us away from or closer to God. The Bible says to draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). I believe He wants to draw us closer to Himself during these times and whisper in our ears words of hope and comfort.

Although most of our questions about such mysteries will not be answered until we also get to Heaven, some comforting secrets are hidden in the pages of God's wonderful Word and are given to comfort us in the midst of times that could otherwise be very confusing or damaging to our faith. Here are some of such promises from the Scripture.

Even in the Faith chapter of the Bible- Hebrews 11- the Scripture tells us that some believers died in faith not having received their promises (v. 13). And it says that others were tortured and afflicted ("of whom the world was not worthy") but they obtained a good testimony through faith (even though they did not receive the promise-v.39).
The Scripture tells us that the "secret things belong to the Lord" and the things that are revealed belong to us (Deut 29:29). There are many things in this life, on this side of eternity that we do not understand, and therefore we must trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean to our own understanding. We may not know the "why" but we can know the "Who"!
We know we are in a war and a great battle for the souls of men. Our ongoing task is to fight the fight of faith (1 Tim 6:12) and resist the devil- and to destroy his evil works of sickness and death (1 John 3:8). The last enemy to be destroyed will be death (1 Cor 15:26) and ultimately Christ and His church will triumph over that as well. There may be casualties in battle, but we will eventually win this war!
We have the sweet assurance that Heaven is an unfathomable reward for the believer. The death of the saints is precious in the eyes of the Lord (Psalm 116:15). Paul actually says it is far better to depart and be with Christ, and that to die is gain (Phil 1:20-23). He even says that he wanted Christ to be magnified in his body, whether by life or by death!
We have this confidence that nothing can separate us from the love of God. (Rom 8:37-39). Even in death we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us! When we walk through this valley, He promises to be with us (Ps 23:4).
With hearts full of faith and trust in the Lord our Healer we will continue to speak the word of faith and healing for people. We have been commissioned to preach the Word and heal the sick (Mark 16:15-20). These momentary contradictions will not hinder us from obeying the Lord and continuing His work. In fact we will retaliate (2 Cor 10:6) with greater fervor and zeal and continue to destroy Satan's evil works- by preaching and propagating Christ's healing message.
We embrace the wonderful goodness of God our Heavenly Father (Matt. 7:11). He is still good and will work all things together for our good (Rom 8:28). And even what the enemy meant for evil, He will turn for our good (Gen 50:20).

Don't allow the enemy of your soul to dishearten you, discourage you or dissuade you from following the Lord and maintaining a strong stand for faith! Don't let bitterness get into your spirit and poison your life. God is still God, His Word is still true, and Heaven is still worth waiting for. We pray much more abounding grace on each of you as you continue your faithful fight of faith against the works of the devil. Let's go to Church this Sunday and pray for some sick folk!

Preparing for a New Year and a New Beginning

2007-12-06T11:19:00Z

We are declaring 2008 at The City Church in Seattle to be the Year of New Beginnings.

New Grace
New Wisdom
New Blessings
New Peace
New Provision
New Territory
New Strategies
New Vision
New Revelation
New Anointing
New Levels
New Manifestations
New Harvest
New Church
New Influence
New Beginnings!
New chapters in our Journal of Faith!

God is faithful. He called you, He will also do it. He who started a good work in you will complete it! The end of a thing is greater than the beginning. He is the Author and the Finisher of your faith. He is a sun and a shield; He will give grace and glory. No good thing will He withhold from you because you are walking uprightly!

That problem is not too hard! That challenge is not too hard! That money is not too hard! That change is not too hard! That relationship is not too hard! That healing is not too hard! That ministry is not too hard! That promise He made to you is not too hard! "There is nothing too hard for the Lord!" "Nothing is impossible with God"

His grace is greater than our weakness! His healing is greater than our sickness! His purpose is more powerful than persecution. His power is greater than Satan's devices.
His promises are greater than our problems. His love is greater than all the things of this life that try to separate us from it.

God will turn our mourning into dancing. Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning! His wrath is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime. All things will work together for our good because we love Him and we are called according to His purpose. Nothing can separate us from the Love of God! Even if we walk through the valley of the shadow He will be with us and comfort us! Goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our life! Nothing is impossible for us.

Our God will fight for us. The battle is not ours but God's. We are more than conquerors! He that is in us is greater than he that is in the world. The God of peace will soon crush Satan underneath our feet. He will arise and scatter our enemies! They will come against us one way, but they will flee seven different directions! No weapon formed against us will prosper! We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. After we have suffered awhile, the God of all grace will perfect, establish, strengthen and settle us. His grace is sufficient for us. Even when we are weak we are strong, for then the power of Christ rests upon us.

"Your latter will be greater!" "You haven't seen anything yet" "Your best days and your blessed days are ahead!" "Your problems don't equal your promises" "The devil's 'no' cannot compete with God's 'yes'!" "The best is yet to come!"

I see many wonderful things for the Church in 2008.

I see a fresh and new anointing of authority and revelation on the preaching of the Word. Prodigal children will be coming back to the Lord. A spirit of conviction and the fear of the Lord will come upon people. New converts will flood our altars. Leaders will step up to bear burdens- mentoring and coaching with new levels of grace for leadership.

Prophecies will come to pass and promises will be fulfilled. New intimacy and unity will thrive in marriages. Peace and harmony will come to homes and families. Prayers will be answered. Businesses will prosper in the midst of economic downturn. Creative revelation will come to those who wait upon the Lord. Promotion and favor will come to those who seek Him.

God will open supernatural doors for the Gospel. Our times of intercession will be accompanied by surprising demonstrations of the glory of God. New wineskins will be filled with new wine. There will be outbreaks of healing in our church. And we will see amazing manifestations of the presence of the Lord in our worship.

I see the Lord restoring many things that were stolen.

Seven fold restoration. This will be for many who have sown abundantly, a year of great reaping. We might have gone out weeping, but we will return with joy bringing our sheaves with us!

As we approach this year — this new season, this new beginning — let's not let the pessimistic, doubt-filled, hell-spawned, negative perspective of the world, the media or the unbelieving critic get to us.

Don't listen to it. Don't embrace it. Don't believe it (faith comes from whatever you are hearing). Meditate in His law day and night (every morning and every evening) and everything you do will prosper and succeed.

We are not to believe the evil reports of many around us. Discouraging statements will come from many sources this year. But we are to believe the report of the Lord.

"Believe in the Lord and you will be established. Believe His prophets and so shall you prosper!"

These All Died in Faith

2007-02-15T08:43:00Z

This article is dedicated to a friend who recently went home to be with the Lord after a lengthy fight of faith with cancer. Pastor Steve Valentine and his lovely wife Kay were to be speakers at our church this week--appropriately at this time of honoring couples (they were in demand every year at this time!). In Pastor Steve's honor, I share this perspective article with you, my eulogy to him (download link at the bottom of this article), shared at his glorious funeral last November in Missoula, Montana at Clark Fork City Church.

I have had the wonderful privilege of being in the ministry more than forty years. In that time, while we have seen many miracles, healings and demonstrations of God's power, we have also walked through the valley of the shadow of death with many people. I lost my father to cancer when he was only 49; my wife lost her father; our little 18-month-old nephew died in our arms; we lost two babies to miscarriage; we said good bye to family, friends, loved ones and precious saints who have all passed from this life into eternity. I have had to oversee the funerals of many people — some were very difficult situations such as suicides, murders or sudden and unexpected deaths.

We are believers in the greatest power on earth — the power of God through a risen Savior. We believe He provided for our healing on the Cross and that by His stripes we were healed. We trust in Jehovah Rophe — the Lord our Healer!

We live in a world where the last enemy to be destroyed is death. Our fight is a fight of faith against all enemies and we access every spiritual weapon available to us to engage this battle and take a stand against our adversary in every way possible.

Throughout the history of faith, believers have had both uncommon victories of faith and have equally shown uncommon courage in the face of suffering and seeming defeat (Hebrews 11:35-40). Others who suffered and were tortured were not willing to accept deliverance. The Bible says these all "obtained a good testimony through faith" even though they "did not receive the promise."

Throughout Christian history, believers better than us, were killed and tortured and suffered great affliction for the name of Christ. And every day in our modern history people suffer and die horrible and ignominious deaths. We all ask these questions of God as to why He allows this suffering, this sickness, this cruel death.

There certainly may be answers- most of which we are not capable of understanding or receiving. But the issue is trust in the living God — who has not just promised us abundant life now but also eternal life forever and ever.

If we begin with the end in mind, we can trust God that what He has prepared for all of us in heaven is so far beyond what we could ask or imagine — that it is worth any temporary suffering we might endure here on earth. This light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Our life on earth — at its best stretch — is like a vapor and a brief dream in the night. Eternity on the other hand with our Lord is immeasurable and unfathomable!

Heaven is such a glorious reward that God calls the death of one of his saints "precious" in His sight. Paul the apostle, who had apparently seen visions of heaven, said it was "far better to depart and be with the Lord" than to remain on earth.

Nevertheless, believing that God has a purpose for us on the planet to fulfill in our short days, we fight the fight of faith — especially since the Lord our Healer has given us weapons to overcome sickness and appropriate healing here and now!

We need to know truth, study God's Word and place our faith in His unchanging promises. We should embrace these glorious revelations and make them part of our daily lives.

If for some reason, sometimes known only to God, this battle ends in what we see as a defeat, we must remember that our task is the believing — His task is the healing and the victory!

Of the countless brothers and sisters I have had to bury, the vast majority would be those of whom it could be said, "these all died in faith not having received the promises." They fought a good fight.

They were welcomed into the presence of their Lord with the words "well done." And once in that paradise of His glorious presence I don't believe one of them wanted to return.

We believe that nothing can separate us from the love of God — not even death! Death is swallowed up in victory. And thanks be to God who gives us this victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

In every battle there are casualties, but we will win the war! We don't send the weapons back because a soldier died on the battlefield. We don't reject medical attention because a patient dies. And we don't cast away our faith in God's Word because we didn't receive the promise.

We go on fighting! We go on believing! We go on contending for the full assurance of faith until the end.

As Job said, "though He slay me yet will I trust Him."

As the three Hebrew children declared, "Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, but if not, let it be known that we do not serve your gods."

When I recently stood at a memorial to honor a dear pastor friend with whom I had been believing for healing from his cancerous affliction, it was difficult, it was emotional, it was grievous and it was a strong challenge to my faith. But we will overcome. My friend fought the good fight of faith and he died in that faith. We vowed that day to preach stronger than ever on divine healing and continue to stand for the miracle-working power of God to be manifest in our lives, our churches, and in our generation.

Be of good cheer. Jesus said He has overcome the world. And He has gone to prepare a place for us, that where He is we will be with Him. All of us will face death, but we can face it with faith believing that the same God who gave us victories over the enemy of sickness will likewise give us the victory over our last enemy — death!

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me!"

Tribute to Pastor Steve Valentine from Pastor Wendell Smith

November, 2006

Steve,

We're all here today to honor you — your lovely wife Kay, your family, your church, your friends, your disciples and me. We give honor to whom honor is due — and we honor you today and thank you for being the man you were and the man you are.

You are my good friend — still in my top ten of people I love. Although I have to say that your position was threatened when I discovered you didn't ask me if you could leave.

It's a bit unfair for a minister to go on extended vacation like this, especially so abruptly and then leave the rest of us behind to do all the work.

Before my race is finished, I hope I can emulate the qualities I witnessed in your life. I have always admired you. We are overwhelmed by the written and oral panorama of your amazing life.

I loved the way you loved life — your smile, your laugh, your perspective, your optimism and your unique sense of humor.

I admired your sincere love for people — for everyone, everywhere we went.

I appreciated your passion for the Lord and His church and how you faithfully followed the leading of the Holy Spirit and studied the Word to prove that these things were true. You were a true shepherd — a faithful minister of the Gospel.

You were a sower of good seed and produced good fruit. It will outlive you and be a constant reminder of the quality of your labors in the Lord. I admire your success in the kingdom of God and covet those same results.

I deeply respected your strength of character — steady and dependable — persistent and faithful in all manner of circumstances. When others were falling, you were standing. When others were leaving, you remained. When others were shaking, there was rock in your soul — you stood your ground — you were a pillar of faith and endurance. Thank you Steve for the example you set for all of us.

I'm sure Heaven is a happier place now that you are there. No doubt, your arrival brought a fresh wind of joy to paradise.

Please say hello to my father and my grandfathers, my circuit riding great grandmother and anyone else who might ask about me. Give them a good report and let them know I'm doing well.

I envy you — being able to walk those streets, and meet the amazing people of faith we all look forward to meeting — and look on that Face — without a veil and without the hindrances of humanity.

I'm sure you've already met some people who owe you their lives. You were probably surprised to see some of them and shocked to know that you were the key that unlocked heaven's doors for them. I believe there are more surprises to follow and many of them are gathered with us here today — more of us who owe you their lives.

I was blessed to know you Steve. Blessed to watch you work. Blessed to watch you live. And blessed to be called one of your friends. Your life had a greater impact than you realized — although maybe you know it now.

I have heard there may be a special place in heaven for fighters — people like you and so many others who died in faith, not receiving all the promises.

I make you a promise my dear friend — there are hundreds of us here today — and we join you in this fight of faith! We renew our vows today to never stop fighting for the faith — to never give up in the struggle against our enemies — and to stand firm in our belief that our God is Jehovah Rophe and that He still heals today.

I promise you we will follow your example. We will preach a bold gospel. We will make more disciples and we will still lay hands on the sick.

I was shocked when I heard how suddenly you left us. I had to find a private place to weep, to contemplate and to verbalize questions only God could handle.

We were fighting together you and I. And now its just me and it feels a little lonely. But I thank you big brother for being a forerunner and assuring my heart — that God works all things together for good — no matter what happens — no matter what. He is good and His mercy endures forever. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

I miss you and I know you cannot come back to us but we will go to you. In what must be a momentary blink of eternity we will all be there together — forever! What a party that will be.

Thank you my friend for who you were, who you are and who you will always be for eternity.

Soon — He will come. And soon we will follow. I am forever your friend.

MISSOULA — Stephen R. Valentine's family and multitude of friends have experienced a great loss as he passed away Friday, Nov. 3, 2006. His stellar life began Nov. 12, 1947, in Laramie, Wyo.

His family moved to Townsend in 1956 and he graduated from Broadwater County High School in 1966. He received basketball and baseball scholarships to Western Montana College in Dillon, graduating in 1970 with degrees in secondary education and history. Upon graduation he was drafted in the United States Army, where he was privileged to continue with sports, playing both baseball and basketball for the Army.

Steve was honored to participate in the 1972 Olympics in Munich, Germany, representing the U.S.A. in the sport of team handball. After the Olympics he moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where he taught and coached basketball, track and wrestling. He enjoyed working with young people and loved his job. Steve gave his heart to Jesus that year, which profoundly changed his life. He met his lovely wife Kay Malach at the church they attended and after a brief courtship they were married in 1973.

Steve felt called to the ministry and left his teaching career to attend Bible school at Abbott Loop Community Chapel. He and Kay were sent along with a small team to Missoula in 1977 to plant Missoula Community Chapel, now known as Clark Fork City Church.

Steve loved sports and the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and especially landing big Alaskan salmon. However, these were always second to his love for the Lord, his wife and best friend Kay, and people wherever he went. Steve's heart was wholly devoted to the Lord and it showed in everything he did. When he preached he could approach the most difficult subjects with great tact, wisdom and grace — a strategy he described as “the velvet brick.”

Steve had a wonderful sense of humor, and was able to connect with people when he shared. On many Sundays he had the congregation laughing out loud with his insightful illustrations and teachings. Steve's personality was magnetic; anyone he talked with quickly became his friend, across all generations. He was easy to talk to, and those who knew him felt loved by him.

He was many things to many people: a loving husband, son and brother, an apostle, a pastor, a father, a friend, a listening ear, a well of wisdom, and a man of God. His life and ministry impacted many lives, and his desire to know and love God more inspired many. The Bible says we should live as Jesus lived and for those who knew Steve we can say he lived his life that way.

Steve was not only a wonderfully gifted and loving pastor, but also a pastor to other pastors throughout Montana, across the U.S. and in several foreign countries. He served as president of the Missoula Evangelical Ministerial Alliance and SALT Team for many years. He was also president of the board of the Montana Shepherds Conference. His teaching and athletic background gave him a special love for athletes. He started a Bible study for University of Montana athletes that has impacted many lives and continues to this day.

Steve's family wishes to express special thanks to friend and doctor, Alan Thomas, M.D., and the loving staff at the Montana Cancer Center, and especially Carolyn Streekstra.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Keith Monroe Valentine.

He is survived by his lovely wife Kay; mother Lois Valentine, father — and mother-in-law, Dr. Edmund and Hilda Suess, and sister Connie (and Dale) Gelvin, all of Missoula; brothers Mike (and Nancy) of Richland, Wash., and Jim (and Chris) of Idaho Falls, Idaho; brother-in-law Warren Malach of Seattle; eight nieces and nephews; 12 grandnieces and grandnephews; as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.

When Steve entered into glory we are sure his Heavenly Father said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy your Father has prepared for you.” So, a celebration of Steve's life will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at Clark Fork City Church, 2811 Latimer St. A graveside service will follow the celebration at Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Missoula.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Wednesday at Garden City Funeral Home.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to the Clark Fork City Church Building Fund, 2811 Latimer St., Missoula, MT 59808, in memory and honor of the last 30 years of Steve's and Kay's lives, which have been devoted to serving the wonderful people of Clark Fork City Church and the city of Missoula.

Nobody Likes War

2007-01-18T04:03:01Z

Recently our President declared that we will be sending more troops to Iraq as a risky new initiative to try to end the war, stabilize the nation and, Lord willing, implement an exit strategy for our troops.

We all realize this demands that the Iraqi people themselves must step up to both appreciate and defend their new- found freedom.

While there are plenty of fears, concerns and even vicious criticisms of this new step by President Bush, we can nevertheless appreciate that he has a plan. With no plan or the over-simplistic approach of "just get out," most thinking people and discerning leaders realize that Iraq would probably collapse into chaos and end up worse than her beginning. Even Jesus says that when an evil spirit is cast out, it attempts to return with seven other spirits more evil than itself, and finding the house swept and clean enters back into a man and the end will be worse than before. There must be a strategy to replace what has been eliminated.

Democrats or Republicans cannot afford to simply decry one another's plans without having one of their own. The mettle and ingenuity of our leaders is being tested and stretched to the limits of their political abilities. We are living in an age where complex problems are going to easily and quickly outdistance human wisdom. Wouldn't it be refreshing to see politicians call the nation to prayer and fasting? Wouldn't it be monumental to see government leaders bow their knees together in bi-partisan prayer and ask God Almighty for divine assistance? We might get a lot done if we didn't care who got the credit.

We all hate war. None of us wants to see our best young men and women put in harm's way. We want peace. We pray for peace. We pray for wisdom for our leaders and for Iraqi leaders to establish justice and a strong defense for that nation so that terrorists are defeated, eliminated, exiled, and deterred. And through this we have the hope of peace in that part of the world.

While we are passionate for peace, here are some points of perspective regarding the war:

Terrorism is being engaged and directly confronted.
A vicious despot has been dethroned and defeated and freedom has been given birth. The wicked man who has been taken out of the way was committed to the decimation of the nation of Israel. God is using America and her allies to protect His chosen people.
Religious and social freedoms have been established and Christian churches are flourishing in the societies of Iraq and Afghanistan.
While we weep over every casualty of war on foreign soil, we should also weep at the tragic loss of life that is regularly happening in the streets of our own cities. In some regions of the United States, more lives are lost to murders, gang shootings and drug wars each week than have been lost in Iraq in total. And these numbers do not include the holocaustic destruction of young Americans every day through abortion. Would to God we would be as vocal and concerned about stopping that war.
We do thank God for a God-fearing President who is doing his best to make decisions that will positively affect many generations to come. We need to pray for him and our other leaders. They will make mistakes, but the responsibility of believers is to pray and intercede for those in authority that we might lead a quiet and peaceable life!

Let us all rededicate ourselves to fervent and effective prayer. Prayer changes things. History belongs to the intercessors! None of us likes war. But perhaps the war we truly need to wage is a spiritual one where principalities and powers are engaged and defeated; where authorities are supported and uplifted and souls are protected and delivered!

One Pastor's perspective, Pastor Wendell Smith

Evil Does Exist

2006-09-12T01:59:39Z

It is hard to believe that it was five years ago this week America was viciously attacked by terrorists. The images of the Twin towers burning and then collapsing are still etched in our minds. It still seems like a nightmare.

Many of us baby boomers are still impacted by the images of November 22nd and the assassination of an American President in Dallas, Texas. The date of 9-11 will forever carry the same historical and cultural meaning to those of us who watched the events unfold before our eyes on live TV.

The world changed that day. It will not return to its former status. In some ways, it changed for the better in that Americans, as well as others, gripped the reality of the existence of evil and of ideologies that are dramatically contrary to common sense and human decency.

Recently, a noted broadcast commentator stated in his editorial for the news program 60 Minutes that Americans should "change the way we live, so that people would not hate us"! I was surprised by this statement and his apparent refusal to believe in the existence of evil.

Evil does exist and the events still on the horizon of humanity will only reinforce this Bible doctrine. There is a devil and he is the one who hates people. There is an enemy of our soul and his bent is to steal, kill and destroy. There is an accuser and his destiny is hellfire, and he desires to take all of mankind with him- if it were possible. But there is also a good God who has shown His great love through the sending of His only Son Jesus. And through Him he has provided forgiveness, healing, blessing and life- abundant life!

The Church will continue to confront evil through her prayers and proclamation of the good news. Don't be deceived into thinking that if we were more educated, or more peace loving or more passive, somehow we would avert these catastrophes. No, evil is real- it is a spirit and it is unrelenting in its assault against all that is good- and especially anything that is rooted in the goodness of God. We however are committed to ongoing and ceaseless prayer for the defeat of evil and the spreading of good.

Da Vinci didn’t have a code — Dan Brown doesn’t have a clue

2006-04-08T01:29:00Z

It is a runaway best selling book in America and in many other nations around the world. On May 19th it will be released as a major motion picture. Book sales have increased this week with the publishing of the paperback. Multiple millions of copies have sold and even more millions of people have read the book.

The text of Dan Brown's new novel "The Da Vinci Code" assails the divinity of Christ, purports that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene, declares that He had children, asserts that the church has been involved in a massive theological cover up for two thousand years and suggests that there are alternative Gospels one might read. The fictitious book is filled with the lies that would make the early apostles cringe. However, the doctrine of the novel is nothing new since the writers of the New Testament addressed many of these heresies in the first century. Same principalities, same devil, same anti-christ spirit (see 1 John 2 and 4)!

Our culture is being saturated with the philosophy of a fictional book that is coming across to people as if it were fact, truth and history. The Bible tells us that people will turn away from the truth in the last days and be turned to fables (2 Timothy 4:3,4). How could people be so gullible and so easily deceived? There is a reason! When a person rejects the knowledge of God (see Romans 1:28) they must embrace another philosophy of life. The presentation of a heretical doctrine is then quickly accepted when it reinforces one's bias against God.

To acknowledge even the existence of God, let alone His laws and commands, is to admit that one is a sinner. In order to cover or eliminate one's conscientious conviction of sin, one must get rid of God. In order to get rid of God, one must find enough evidence to do so. Dan Brown, albeit fictitiously, has provided ammunition for those who doubt and those who violently object to the intrusion of the Almighty into their lives. But here are the realities:

The book is a novel! It is fiction not truth — not history — not fact! (2 Timothy 4:4)
The book is built on a sandy mix of man's opinions, lies and deception, revision of history and partial truths. One cannot build anything on this kind of revelation. (Matthew 7:26, 27)
People who are looking for an excuse to reject Christ, or a reason to accuse the church of hypocrisy — have been given a new tool to do so. (Romans 1:18-32)
It will not produce good fruit. People will reject faith. People will lose hope in the Only One who can give it. (Matthew 7:15-20)

Having said all these things, how should a believer respond to this obvious assault against the Person of our Lord Jesus Christ? This is no joke. This is not just another book or movie. It is a serious attack against the divinity and reputation of the only One who can save the human soul. It certainly is an aggressive offense to all those who believe and all those who know and love our Lord and Savior.

Nevertheless this is not a time for us to stand on the street corners with signs of impending doom, yelling at passersby and telling them where they are going!

Instead this is a golden opportunity for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Josh McDowell recently said this may be the greatest opportunity for evangelism in our generation — "bigger than Narnia and the Passion of the Christ" put together.

The Bible tells us that even the wrath of man will bring praise to God!

"Human opposition only enhances your glory, for you use it as a sword of judgment." Psalms 76:10 (NLT)

We should not worry about trying to defend God or His Word. He can handle that. Rather we should ask the Lord for wisdom and insight as to how to give an answer for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15; Colossians 4:6). We need to ask the Holy Spirit to increase our love for people. Not everyone is wicked and looking to defame God. Most people are part of the multitudes in the valley of decision sincerely searching for truth.

Dr. James Garlow, who recently spoke at The City Church (listen) addresses these issues in his best selling book and resources. They are directed at addressing the Da Vinci Code phenomena. Here are some highlights.

Look at this as an opportunity for the Gospel and pray for open doors of conversation.
Don't react to people in anger, respond with wisdom (Col. 4:6)
Engage people in conversations about Jesus
Look for opportunities to invite people — to a small group (we are starting Da Vince groups)
Present the real Jesus to those who are hungry and searching — and pray with people to receive Christ as He opens the door! (use the Word of God)

Novel, motion picture, modern day heresy — all these are opportunities to present Jesus Christ in a fresh way to a new generation! We might actually end up thanking Dan Brown.

He doesn't have a clue, and Da Vinci didn't have a code. But Jesus has the answer for the human heart!

Money Makes Us More of What We Are

2006-03-01T06:00:00Z

This past week eight people's photographs lined the front page of USA Today and other national papers. The eight were the "lucky" ones who won the US Lottery. They are the new millionaires of America. The total winnings were $136 million. Their individual winnings were $22 million apiece. After taxes each received a lump sum of approximately $15 million dollars. There were seven men and one woman, friends and co-workers at a meat packing plant in Lincoln, Nebraska. Three had emigrated from other nations- two from Vietnam and one from Africa.

They had pooled their money and purchased forty lottery tickets. One ticket had the winning numbers and their lives were forever changed- and actually, "changed" might not be the best word to describe their present state- amplified might be better. As it has said "money simply makes us more of what we are".

I pray these eight people will make the right choices with their new wealth. Their sudden riches will put new and demanding pressures on them. Similar to descending into a hundred feet of ocean water- the pressure is intense and life threatening or being transported to the top of Mt. Everest- where the air is thin, the oxygen rare and every move must be measured and sure.

The downside of "good fortune" as some call it, has been manifest for all to see. While some may have survived their new found wealth, others have crashed and burned.

USA Today news reported the following in an article dated, February 26, 2006:

"William "Bud" Post, who won $16.2 million in the Pennsylvania Lottery in 1988, had a brother who tried to have him killed for the inheritance. Post lost and spent all his winnings. He was living off Social Security when he died in January."
"Two years after winning a $31 million Texas Lottery in 1997, Billie Bob Harrell Jr. committed suicide. He had bought cars, real estate, gave money to his family, church and friends. After his death it was not clear whether there was money left for estate taxes."
"Victoria Zell, who shared an $11 million Powerball jackpot with her husband in 2001, is serving time in a Minnesota prison, her money gone. Zell was convicted in March 2005 in a drug- and alcohol-induced collision that killed one person and paralyzed another."
"Evelyn Adams, who won the New Jersey Lottery twice, in 1985 and 1986, for a total $5.4 million, gambled and gave away all of her money. She was poor by 2001, and living in a trailer."

(Contributing: Bill Welch and USA TODAY research.)

Bankruptcy, suicide, death threats, lawsuits, prison and poverty; these things are not good fruit for something that has been so widely promoted in our society as "good fortune".

The Bible tells us clearly what will happen to people whose riches come quickly.

"Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven." Prov 23:5 (NKJV)

"A man with an evil eye hastens after riches, And does not consider that poverty will come upon him." Prov 28:22 (NKJV)

"There is a severe evil which I have seen under the sun: Riches kept for their owner to his hurt. But those riches perish through misfortune; When he begets a son, there is nothing in his hand." Eccl 5:13-14 (NKJV)

"The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, Whether he eats little or much; But the abundance of the rich will not permit him to sleep." Eccl 5:12 (NKJV)

"Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.'" Matt 19:23-24 (NKJV)

"But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided? So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.'" Luke 12:20-21 (NKJV)

"But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." 1 Tim 6:9-10 (NKJV)

"A faithful man will abound with blessings, But he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished." Prov 28:20 (NKJV)

The Scripture also describes people such as the rich young ruler who walked away from Jesus of Nazareth because of his possessions; or the rich man Lazarus who ended up in hell after spending his earthly life in pleasure and despising the poor; or the prodigal son who wasted his inheritance with riotous living and had friends only as long as he had money.

If we could trade, I trust most of us would take friends, good health, mental well-being and a good reputation over instant wealth! One winner said his daughter would be happy for the rest of her life. I wonder! Another said "everyone has dreams". I hope the dream does not turn into the nightmare others have experienced.

Obedience to God's economic laws of hard work, diligence, tithing, giving and good stewardship will always produce good fruit. Riches gained hastily will not be blessed in the end.

Did the Seahawks Get Robbed?

2006-02-09T05:35:00Z

The majority of the Northwest had a vested interest in our local team and most of were convinced that the Seahawks were good enough to conquer the Pittsburgh Steelers. But it was not to be, or maybe it was but it didn't happen. There has been a lot of press time given to the officiating after the game ended in a Pittsburgh World Championship. Even Seattle head coach Mike Holmgren remarked, "I didn't know we were going to have to play the guys in the striped shirts." Even the most biased critics felt it was an unbalanced job of officiating a game and that key plays for Seattle were negated by calls that should not have been made. However, it's history now and Pittsburgh has a fifth ring to add to its players' collection.

All of us have experienced injustice in life. We have all probably gone through something that was unfair and unjust. It is one of life's cruelest experiences. I recall many sports games where my son or daughter were on teams that seemed to receive unfair treatment from all too human referees. I hated it because I hate injustice. My favorite movies are the ones where the bad guys get it in the end and good triumphs over evil. That's the way it ought to be!

Seattle's pro football team may have been shorted by the officials, but that happens. Life isn't always fair and bad things can occur in all our lives - even to good people. It is our response that is paramount. It is our attitude that is most important. It is how we get up when we're knocked down that can turn evil into good and negative circumstances into something that can actually build our lives in a positive way. Injustice can be turned into character in the hearts and minds of those who commit their souls into the keeping of a faithful Creator - and the One Who will make all the final calls.

Yes, a replay challenge has been thrown onto the field of life and our loving Heavenly Father has it all under review as we speak. Trust Him to work all things together for good in your life today!