Baptist Articles of Faith - Articles III - IV

Articles 3 and 4

Continuing with the discussion about the articles of faith we are going into the third and forth articles in the coming weeks. It is good scripture reading and gives us the ability to answer those that might ask about the Gospel. 

Ephesians 6:19

And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

III Of the Fall of Man

We believe that man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker; (Genesis 1:27; Genesis 1:31 Ecclesiastes 7:29; Acts 17:26-29; Genesis 2:16-17)

but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state; (Genesis 3:6-24; Romans 5:12)

in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners; (Romans 5:19; John 3:6; Psalms 51:5; Romans 5:15-19; Romans 8:7)

 not by constraint, but choice; (Isaiah 53:6; Genesis 6:12.Romans 3:18)

being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin; (Ephesians 2:1-3; Romans 1:18; Romans 1:32; Romans 2:1-16;  Galatians 3:10; Matthew 20:15)

without defense or excuse.  (Ezekiel 18:19-20; Romans 1:20; Romans 3:19; Galatians 3:22) 

   

IV The Way of Salvation

  

We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace;  (Ephesians 2:8; Matthew 18:11; 1 John 4:10; 1 Corinthians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 3:7; Acts 15:11)

through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God; (John 3:16; John 1:1-14; Hebrews 4:14; Hebrews 12:24)

who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon him our nature, yet without sin; (Philippians 2:6-7; Hebrews 2:9; Hebrews 2:14; 2 Corinthians 5:21)

honored the divine law by his personal obedience,  (Isaiah 42:21; Philippians 2:8; Galatians 4:4-5; Romans 3:21)

and by his death made a full atonement for our sins;  (Isaiah 53:4-5; Matthew 20:28; Romans 4:25; Romans 3:21-26; 1 John 4:10; 1 John 2:2; 1 Corinthians 15:1-3; Hebrews 9:13-15) 
 

that having risen from the dead he is now enthroned in heaven; (Hebrews 1:8; Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 8:1; Colossians 3:1-4)

and uniting in his wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, he is every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate, and an all-sufficient Savior.  (Hebrews 7:25; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 2:18; Hebrews 7:26; Psalms 89:19; Psalms 34)

Baptist Articles of Faith - Articles I and II

I want to do a Sunday School series for the Adult Sunday School class that covered the Baptist Articles of Faith as covered in the old Baptist manual. When I was set aside to be ordained I read through the manual and read and reread the Articles of Faith. I think that we ought to not only believe that Jesus is our savior, but we should also know why we believe it to be so.

I know there are many people who wouldn't to share their salvation story with anyone willing to hear it. I believe that if we are asked if we are born again, we wouldn't hide it and gladly tell it. If though, someone asked 'why' you believe what you believe, would you have an answer that was as fast and certain for the questioner? I believe at least in this country, we have very little excuse as to why we might be ignorant of the Holy Bible. I believe a series of lessons on the articles of Faith will be beneficial for everyone who loves the Lord.

This week, we will cover the first two articles of Faith.

 I. OF THE SCRIPTURES 

We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, and  is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction; (2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Samuel 23:2, 2 Peter 1:21, Acts 1:16, Acts 3:21, John 10:35, Luke 16:29-31, Psalms 119:111, Romans 3:1-2)
that it has God for its author, salvation for its end; (2 Timothy 3:15, 1 Peter 1:10-12, Acts 11:14, Romans 1:16, Mark 16:16, John 5:38-39)
and truth without any mixture of error, for its matter; (Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, Revelation 22:18-19, Romans 3:4)
that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us; (Romans 2:12, John 12:47-48, 1 Corinthians 4:3-4, Luke 10:10-16, Luke 12:47-48)
and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union (Philippians 3:16, Ephesians 4:3-6, Philippians 2:1-2, 1 Corinthians 1:10, 1Peter 4:11)
and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.  (1 John 4:1, Isaiah 8:20, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, 2 Corinthians 13:5, Acts 17:11, 1 John 4:6, Jude 3:5, Ephesians 6:17, Psalms 119:59-60; Philippians 1:9-11) 
      

 II.  OF THE TRUE GOD 

We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God, and infinite, intelligent Spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth, (John 4:24Psalms 147:5; Psalms 83:18; Hebrews 3:4; Romans 1:20; Jeremiah 10:10)
inexpressibly glorious in holiness, (Exodus 15:11; Isaiah 6:3; 1 Peter 1; Revelation 4:6-8)
and worthy of all possible honor, confidence, and love, (Mark 12:30; Revelation 4:11; Matthew 10:37; Jeremiah 2:12-13)
that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, The Son, and the Holy Ghost, (Matthew 28:19; John 15:26; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6; 1 John 5:7)
 equal in every divine perfection, (John 10:30; John 5:17; John 14:23; John 17:5; John 17:10; Acts 5:3-4; 1 Corinthians 2:10-11; Philippians 2:5-6)

and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of 
redemption. (Ephesians 2:18); 2 Corinthians 13:14; Revelation 1:4-5; Comp 2 &7) 

Genesis 50

All Egypt mourns Israel's (Jacob's) death

When the 49th chapter ends, Jacob blesses his children then dies. As we open the fiftieth chapter Joseph cries over his father. They embalm Jacob following Joseph's orders and Joseph asks for permission from Pharaoh to take Jacob to Machpelah to bury him as he promised Jacob he would do. 

Notice this picture here, not only does Pharaoh grant the request to bury Jacob in Canaan, but all Egypt mourns for seventy days and then Pharaoh sends a huge expedition up to Canaan in honor of Jacob and his burial. This is truly the hand of God and speaks of times to come where God will have honor for Christ by those that are not part of the original covenant. That shows the mighty hand of God and his power over all the world and those that are in it. 

Now we see why it is best to never sin in the first place. Christ can forgive us our sins, but unfortunately, we can suffer from a guilty conscience for a long time. Even after all the faithfulness that Joseph has shown his brothers in delivering them and saving their lives, they are afraid that he will get even for the evil they committed to him years ago. Joseph, once hearing this news weeps. The story of Joseph is a forerunner of Christ, and though because of sin this body will die, once our sins are forgiven, they are forgiven forever by Christ Jesus. Joseph and his brothers live in harmony and Joseph lives to see his grandchildren of many generations, telling them of his request to be buried in Canaan once God delivers them back out of Egypt. 

Genesis 42

Sometimes when it looks dark, God is just starting to work wonders!

God had blessed Jacob with many herds. With the famine in the land, the family was running out of food and so were all of those cattle and sheep. Jacob had heard that there was food in Egypt, so he gathered his sons and cautiously sent them down after food. He was leery, because he had lost his favored wife and his eldest son from that marriage and he didn't want to loose anyone else. 

He sent the men with gifts and money to pay for everything they might purchase. They were in hard times, but God had provided mightily for them. Here shows an example for our lives when we are in fear of the unknown or of perceived troubles. God had already prepared a way for all of them before hand they just weren't aware of it. So it is in our lives, when we are in fear of change, many times God has already worked it out ahead of time for us. Sometimes, when we sin things down work out right, but the wages or sin our death, so we can expect sin to foul things up. Joseph sees his brothers and decides to try them out and test their intentions. Genesis doesn't record this, but it is almost as if he is see if their hard hearts have softened over the years. He calls them spies and wants proof they are who they say they are. He tells them not to come back unless they bring their youngest brother with them. 

Joseph has witness that his brother's hearts have changed, and he sells them food and returns their money. He keeps Simeon and knows all of their plan because he understood everything that they said but spoke to them through and interpreter. After they return to Jacob, they tell him all that has happened and he is greatly distressed and says he'll never let Benjamin go to Egypt. Little do they all know that God is going to not only deliver them, but have a great reunion as well. 

Genesis 41

Pharaoh's Dream and God's interpretation!

If we wait and remain faith, God will use us again and again for his purpose. Pharaoh was troubled by dreams and no one could interpret the dreams for him and no one could calm him down. The butler finally remembers that he forgot all about Joseph, the one who told him his dream and what it would mean. He confesses to Pharaoh, and Joseph is sent for. 

As always Joseph makes it clear that he will not interpret the dream, but the God of Heaven will reveal all that is hidden. So it will be with us on the day of judgment, nothing will be hid. Joseph reveals that the seven goodly kine and the seven ill kine stand for seven years to come, some of feast and seven more of famine. Joseph by the hand and revealing power of God is able to reveal what all the magicians and soothsayers could not. It will again be the same for us, by God's hand we can accomplish much for the spread of the Gospel, but the accomplishments of this world will all fade. 

Pharaoh now sees the wisdom and power in Joseph by the hand of God and makes him the ruler over all of Egypt and puts him in charge of the seven years of gathering for the seven years of famine. Joseph becomes what he was for his father, for Potipher and also for the jailer. Joseph becomes the man in charge by the hand of God. God not only blesses Joseph, but blesses Egypt because of Joseph. Joseph marries and has Manasseh and Ephraim while living as a ruler in Egypt. God is about to make his hand known to all of his brethren, and to the entire world. 

Genesis 40

As hard as the wait is, God is always on time!

In these first few years that Joseph is sold into slavery, things go well, then poorly. He was the ruler of Potipher's house, but wrongly accused and sent to jail. Now in jail he makes the acquaintance of the chief baker and butler of Pharaoh. They are in jail for upsetting Pharaoh and are having nightmares. Joseph, as seems to always be the case, is willing to help and is looking after the welfare of the people in jail. How Joseph shows compassion on others when it looks like he is the one who needs compassion is an example of Christ's love for us. 

These dreams are similar in parts but different totally in outcome. Isn't this the way of Salvation? We have two paths, one leads to life and light and the other to damnation and death. He interprets these dreams giving all credit to God and taking none for himself, as it should be. The butler has a promising future with Pharaoh, but the baker does not. The baker's dream is interpreted and fulfilled, the baker soon dies at the hand of Pharaoh. As it is with these two servants of Pharaoh, so it is with us that like is short and we will soon be on our way to the end of life's journey.

Joseph asks the butler to remember him and his situation when he returns a position of honor before Pharaoh. The butler unfortunately forgets this request and it seems that once again Joseph draws the short straw and is sent to suffer unjustly. We find out though, that is far from the truth and God has a plan to not only deliver him, but all of his family and future generations of the Hebrews as well. 

Genesis 39

Bad things do happen to good people, but according to God's purpose.

Joseph does what he always does, and that is do the best job he can. If Joseph grumbled and complained about his misfortune, the Bible doesn't record it. He is put as a slave in Potiphar's house and becomes not only a servant, but the overseer of all that Potiphar owns. God is not limited, we only limit ourselves by not believing fully in him. 

Unfortunately for Joseph Potiphar's wife has a straying eye and it is looking toward Joseph. He spurns her advances for a long time, but finally he is caught alone in the house with no one else around and after he runs off from her, in her jealously she makes a story about the cloak he left behind in his haste. Potiphar comes home and his wife tells him all about the story that didn't happen. She even has the gall to blame it on Potiphar because he purchased Joseph. I believe the fact that Potiphar spares Joseph's life and puts him in prison shows God's hand and his own distrust of his wife. 

Again, we don't hear any grumbling or complaining from Joseph, and before long God blesses and he is running the prison like he ran Potiphar's house. We know that through all of this God was putting Joseph in the right place at the right time. If he had cursed God and given up, he never would have delivered his brothers and all of Israel during the famine. The same is in our lives, no matter how bad it might get, serve God with all your heart and God will be faithful in the end. 

Genesis 38

Self-righteousness has a way of coming back on us

Judah was not ignorant of the command given to his father and grandfather not to marry into the Canaanites. He finds a friend in Hirah, and while hanging out with him, instead of his own family, he finds a Canaanite woman, Shuah and marries her. With Shuah he has three sons, Er, Onan and Shelah. Er marries a woman named Timnah and lived his life in evil the bible says; so God slays him. Whether he is slayed by his own evil living or just outright struck down by God, I suppose it ends the same. Following Jewish custom, Onan is now supposed to marry her and raise up children in his brother Er's name. Onan wants no part of this and refuses to give her children in her brother's name and God slays him as well. 

Judah intervenes and tells Timnah to stay at her father's until Shelah is old enough to be her husband. Time passes and is so often the case, we forget our vows and promises and during this time Judah's wife dies. While trying to forget his sorrow he decides to go into a harlot, but the surprise is on him because he unknowingly lays with and impregnates his daughter-in-law who laid in wait for him. 

After time passes and word comes back to him that Timnah is pregnant, Judah, who hasn't lived a life for God since he left his family to go live with the Canaanites, gets fired up and says that his sinful daughter-in-law must be put to death to pay for her 'sins'. Timnah has a secret for Judah and when she presents him with the signets he left as a token to pay her for their rendezvous, he is immediately humbled and says out loud that she has been more just than he has.  

Timnah ends up having twins, Pharez and Zarah. During delivery Zarah puts him arm out and he is marked with a scarlet thread to show he was the first born, which is important to Jewish law and tradition. Astonishingly though, Pharez ends up coming out first. Pharez will become important because it is through his line that kind David and the Kind of Kings comes. The circumstances that brought you into this world do not matter as much as what you do in this world once you are here. 

Genesis 37

'And the Lord was with Joseph'

If anyone could have said 'Woe is me' is was Joseph. His brothers hated him, he was sold into slavery and his situation seemed to get worse with every passing day. Hadn't God showed him great visions in his dreams? Wasn't he supposed to be some kind of ruler? Now look at him, he's a slave for an Egyptian, bought and sold for a price, not even his brothers made a dime off of his servitude because they were not mindful of him before he was captured into slavery. 

This Joseph that I describe above though, thankfully and praises to God, we never get to meet. We never meet the 'woe is me' Joseph. We meet and stay with the 'God is my helper, him will I serve no matter what' Joseph. This Joseph is a forerunner of Jesus Christ, this Joseph is a man despite his situations and not because of them, loved the Lord with all his heart. This is the 'no excuses' Joseph and we are all better off for meeting him. 

Joseph is purchased by the caption of Pharaoh's guard. Joseph does what he always does and goes about doing the best job he can. It doesn't take long for Joseph to be in charge of the entire household of the captain. Unfortunately the captain's wife takes a sinful liking to Joseph and speaks lies and evil of him after he embarrasses her by shunning her advances. Of course the captain comes home and is outraged at this news and sends Joseph off to jail. The fact that Joseph keeps his life shows God's hand and the favor Joseph was able to create with this captain despite such a heinous charge. 

So now that Joseph is in jail and has an even greater reason to feel rejected of God, he does what he does best. Joseph puts God first place, works hard, and then becomes the right hand man for the keeper of the prison. This is what today's Christian ought to be, the best at upholding God's righteousness and working hard. In Luke chapter 16 verses 8 through 12, 8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. 9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?

Not only in spiritual endeavors, but in secular endeavors, let's do the best job God allows us to do, so that when God wants to move in our life, we have influence not only those that love and serve God, but those that we have been in contact with in our daily lives. 

Spotlight for July 21st 2013

Bill Glass

This weeks spotlight is on Bill Glass. He was a standout football player for Baylor University and the Cleveland Browns. Later toward the end of his football career he started a prison ministry that has not only served and saved some in prison, but through his ministry he has discovered what is needed most of all to combat crime and sin, and that is a strong family.

You can read all about it on his site.

Bill Glass Champions for Life

Genesis 32

Jacob's fearful reunion Esau

Jacob had to take courage that on his journey away from Laban, he met up with angels sent by God. I'm sure many of us wouldn't mind encountering something similar, but we have to remember, we have the Holy Ghost and the wonderful Gospel message which is something Jacob could only pray and hope for. 

When Jacob left his home, Esau had vowed to take his life. Now after all these years later, Jacob has more than just himself to worry about. Jacob has the safety and security of all the children God has blessed him with . He decides to make a peace offering and send it ahead to Esau to appease him and that he might know his intentions. 

In one of those moments where the good news is overshadowed by the bad news, the servants return and Esau has heard them. Esau is also coming with 400 men, and that is rightfully upsetting to Jacob. Jacob then does what we should all do in times of need and uncertainty; he cries out to God. First though, he prepares to separate his party into groups so that in a worst case scenario, he might save some. Then, Jacob cries out to God and reminds God of his covenant with his offspring. Does God need reminded? Of course God does not need reminded, but I believe God does want to hear from us and know that we remember His promises. 

So as Jacob cries out to God for deliverance (don't we all need deliverance from death, hell and the grave) he wrestles with a man or angel or Christ himself, the Bible does not say specifically. We can learn from Jacob here, that when something needs and answer, when nothing but God's deliverance will do, we should stay in prayer until we have an answer. 

For our edification, thank God that Jacob kept trying till God blessed him. Oh to go through live with the assurance of God's deliverance!

Genesis 31

Jacob goes through another trial while leaving Laban

Laban's sons were talking and they were saying things that were not true and hurtful. Jealousy is part of human nature and many times jealousy will make accusations that are the exact opposite of the truth. Laban was increased by God blessing Jacob. Laban was far better off now because of the blessing that God allowed Jacob to enjoy. God is going to show everyone that God is in charge and tells Jacob to return to his homeland. 

Jacob goes out to his wives and explains to them that If Laban is missing anything, it is because of the hand of God and not because Jacob has dealt suspiciously with Laban. It was God's hand that allowed Jacob's part to increase over Laban's. Laban has in fact tried to do Jacob much harm, but God protected Jacob.

Rachael and Leah side with Jacob and see what God has done, so they all set out. Unfortunately, Rachael took the idols that belonged to Laban so he knew something was wrong. Jacob had a three day lead, but Laban was able to overcome that lead in seven days. Laban may have done something rash or evil to Jacob but God appeared to Laban in a dream. Many times in our lives bad things might happen, but if we obey God and seek his face he can turn an awful situation into a good one. God told Laban not only to do Jacob no harm, but to not even speak evil to him. Unfortunately, Laban can't help but show theatrics and lie to and about Jacob. Fortunately, God is in charge and not Laban. 

After Laban finishes lying and venting, because of the words of God, they decide to make a vow and covenant between themselves. Jacob then offers a sacrifice to the Lord for delivering Jacob yet again. How many times does God deliver us and we are not even aware of his goodness?

Genesis 30

More children and some troubles for Jacob

God does wonders in spite of our sins, and not because of them. From the beginning God did not intend for man to have more than one living wife and he did not intend for us to have offspring through hand maids. We see here the trouble caused by people not being patient and obeying the will of God. Did God bless Jacob even though he sinned and made mistakes? Yes, but God blessed him for his righteousness, not for his sins. To say otherwise would make the commandments and laws of God to no effect. 

Rachael is heart broken that her sister is having sons and he is having none. He cries to Jacob in her frustration and he rebukes her. Finally, out of desperation and not divine making, she gives her hand maid to Jacob to bear children. This didn't turn out the best for Abraham, and it won't be the best situation her either. Leah becomes jealous because even though she has given birth to sons, she seems to no longer be able to be pregnant. She she gives her handmaiden to Jacob so that she can 'provide' him with more children. 

Evidently Jacob no longer 'visited' Leah, so when Rachael desires mandrakes from one of Leah's sons, she works out of deal for Jacob to 'visit' her. God smiles on the her and she has another son. Imagine the hard feelings that go around in this family. After Rachael later has Joseph, Jacob decides it is time to leave and tells Laban as much. 

Jacob had used a method to differentiate the cattle and sheep by making some spotted and the others natural color. Laban agrees that the livestock will be separated according this this method. Jacob takes what is his and goes out three days journey. Trouble and Laban are going to follow him, but the Lord is on Jacob's side. 

Genesis 29

Jacob marries Rachael, eventually.

Jacob comes to a well after his long journey and with the help of God's guiding hand we comes to meet the servants of his mother's people. They are eager to see him and there are great tidings all around, especially after he meets Rachael. Did Jacob assume too much from the start? Considering that Leah, Rachael's sister would bare the for eldest sons of the Tribe of Israel, obviously the Lord had plans that he wasn't yet aware of. 

After Jacob meets Laban there is celebration and terms. Jacob says that he'll work seven years for the hand of Rachael. Laban agrees, but has other plans that he won't reveal to Jacob. Do I think God was in on this deceitful plan? God knows all things, but even through men's sins and mistakes, God can show his strength, which he does here. 

After seven years fly by because of Jacob's deep love for Rachael, the day of marriage comes and Laban slips in Leah instead of Rachael. Laban wants his eldest daughter married first and this was a custom that ran through different cultures all the way up past the middle ages. Jacob is upset, but agrees to work seven more years because he wants to marry Rachael. 

The Bible says that Leah was hated. This is an awful instance because Leah probably had no choice in the matter with her father Laban or Jacob. A lot like we treat so called unwanted pregnancies, we choose to hate one of God's creation through no fault of their own. Seeing this, God blessed Leah to have many male heirs while Rachael was barren. In our Christian lives, lets make sure we are holding to God's plans and not our own. 

Genesis 28

Isaac blesses Jacob and sends him away for a wife

Isaac gives Jacob a proper blessing before he dies. He tells Jacob that he does not want him to take a wife from the people nearby but to go and get a wife from the children of his uncle, Rebekah's brother. This is still part of the same people that were a part of Abraham's family. As we know from the book of Judges, mingling with those that have other God's has a heavy price to pay. 

Upon hearing the news that his brother Jacob has been sent away for a wife, Esau decides to make his lot with the descendants of Ishmael.He takes a wife from those people and seems to delight in the doing what is contrary to his parents will and sound advice. Sin will make people do seemingly senseless things. 

As Jacob heads off on his journey, let us not forget that he has to leave anyway because his brother Esau vows to kill him after their father's death.He knows he may never see his parents or brother again. He is lonely, but just as we are without hope, that is when God shows up. Jacob dreams of a ladder ascending up to Heaven and God reaffirms his covenant with him and his forefather Abraham. We have the same promise that if we serve God faithfully, he will never leave us nor forsake us and will give us eternal rest. 

After Jacob wakes up, we takes his stone pillow and makes an alter to God for his covenant. The place is name Bethel, meaning God is in this place, or house of God. From this we have the phrase that Jacob will use later in Genesis saying 'let us go back to Bethel'. We use it now to mean let us return to where we got our first blessing and promise of God. 

Spotlight of the Week

John Newton

John Newton is an interesting character that shows the powers up God's conversion of the soul. Born in 1725 in London the son of a shipmaster. John's mother died while he was young and while his father was sailing he lived with his fathers new wife. He sailed voyages with his father and his father intended him to work at a sugar plantation in Jamaica but he joined the service of a ship in the Mediterranean like his father instead . He was later captured and presses into service into the Royal Navy. As a midshipment he was discontented and tried to escape. For his trouble he was stripped and tied to the ship and whipped. He contemplated killing the captain and throwing himself overboard but finally thought better of it. 

John finally joined another ship and became involved in the slave trade with Africa. On board the Pegasus he became a constant problem so they left him in Africa with a slave owner, John himself now becoming a slave.   John was finally rescued by a captain sent by his father to find him. During a powerful storm on his way back to England John woke in the night with the boat filling with water. He cried out to God for deliverance and some of the cargo moved around in such a way as to fill the whole in the ship. After this, John started praying and reading a Bible. From that day on he gave up drinking, swearing, gambling and all other evils but did continue working in the slave trade. He became known for his gentle treatment of the slaves. 

John became an Anglican priest in 1757 after giving up the ship and slave trade. He was well known for his faith and people would come to him when they had questions about their faith, one of those being William Wilberforce. Finally in 1788 he spoke out against slavery and became an abolitionist, tied closely with Mr Wilberforce and living to see the passage of the Slave trade act of 1807 like Mr Wilberforce. 

After hearing the life struggles of this man you can now see a little clearer as to how this man could write the words so well in his famous hymn, Amazing Grace. God's grace was truly powerful and life changing in John's life. 

Genesis 27

Isaac blesses Jacob

God said that the elder would serve the younger. He told that to Isaac and Rebekah when the children were born. Even so, when God may enlighten us as to his will, it is God who is to carry it out and we are not to do God's part for him. Isaac asks his son to fix him a last meal so to speak. He favored Esau and he loved fresh venison. So off Esau goes to do the will of his father and Rebekah plots with Jacob behind Isaac's back. If we let God work in our lives, he will work things out, we don't have nor can we do God's will for him. 

Rebekah tells the plan to Jacob and even Jacob thinks it is too risky. Many times in our life our first thought about a situation is probably the wisest. Rebekah convinces her son that it will work and goes about to go to great lengths to deceive her husband. So they  dress up Jacob to look like Esau. We know the Esau's marriages troubled his parents and that he was on the wrong path. Imagine Christians dressing up like a sinner to receive a blessing from God! We probably see this more often than we think if we will look past the surface.

Isaac, even though he is mostly blind questions and knows that something is up. Unfortunately his eyes and senses fail him in the deception. The only real way we can see the sins and trials that might stumble us in life is to cling close to God or we can be tricked by the deceptions of the Devil. Isaac after some crying gives Esau what blessing he can and now Esau hates Jacob for it. Beware not to make enemies ever, we are commanded to love everyone, but especially not to make enemies out of our own capable brother and sisters. Esau rightly had hard feelings for Jacob and it would take God to later cool his rage. The chapter closes with Rebekah giving Jacob good advise. We would do well to make it right with God and always speak sound advise even after we sin. 

Spotlight of the Week John Wesley

John Wesley

John Wesley was a young Anglican minister that was classically trained and excelled in his studies. He went to Oxford and was a member of a religious society that vowed to pray, study and follow God. He took a ministry position in the new world for colonist in Savannah Georgia. On his way to the new world during a terrible storm he noticed that a group of Moravians going to bring the Gospel to Indians were not afraid. In fact, the Moravians were singing calmly in the storm. When John, who was the chaplain of the voyage as well,  inquired with them to there calmly manner they asked if he John had faith in Christ. He responded yes, but said later is was an empty answer. 

After failing miserably in Georgia he went back to England. On a certain night John records in his journal the following, "In the evening, I went very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street, where one was reading Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans. About a quarter before nine, while he was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone for salvation, and an assurance was given me that he had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death."

The rest as they say is history. John Wesley went on to enjoy ministry overflowing with spiritual power and souls saved in England and ordained many ministers for God leaving a testimony that his faith was real.You can read more about him here.

Genesis 26

God reaffirms his covenant with Issac and blesses him

A new famine comes to the land of Canaan just as it did in Abraham's day. Unlike Abraham's day, God asks Isaac to stay and not go to Egypt and God will care for him. He also tells Isaac that if he follows God like his father, he will bless him like his father, and not just because he is Abraham's son. 

Just like his father, Isaac tells those around that Rebekah is his sister and not his wife. After Abimelech spies that Isaac and Rebekah are friendlier than brother and sister should be, he accuses Isaac of trying to bring mischief to the Philistine people. Abimelech, who may be the son of the Abimelech of Abraham's day, commands all his people not to harm or touch Rebekah. 

God not only blesses Isaac in a time of famine, but allows him to receive a hundred fold from his crops and flocks. Nothing is impossible for God if we will put our faith and trust in him. All these blessings though cause jealousy with the Philistines. After fighting over wells and flocks, Abimelech approaches Isaac and asks him to leave and go further away so that there are no wars or fighting between them. This is good for us to do as Christians that we would be peaceable with all people and rather go somewhere else than let the name of God suffer. 

Notice that Isaac digs up the wells that his father dug up. It is well to follow after the example of our forefather if there example is just and holy. If our parents or mentors were Godly, it is always good to follow after their example so that we might have the same relationship and success with God. After God reaffirms the covenant with Isaac, he again does what his father would do and builds and altar and sacrifices to God. 

When God blesses your life and the things that you do for his name, people will take notice. Even though Isaac was further away from Abimelech, they still heard and saw what God was doing for them. It worried them so much that if God was going to bless Isaac to become a mighty ruler, they wanted a peace treaty between them so that they would have peace and not have to fight against God. Oh that the world would have the same respect and fear for God's church because they see how he blesses it. 

Genesis 25

Abraham remarries and Ishmael's descendants

Abraham marries again after Sarah dies. There is no commandment against marriage in old age or once the first spouse has passed on. We see here that the promise of many children is partly kept with 6 more sons from Keturah. I don't know if this is wise considering some of their descendants became enemies of the Hebrews, but then again, the Hebrews fought against each other from time to time. 

Abraham gives the inheritance to Isaac as was part of the God's plan and part of the promise already made to Isaac and even Rebekah when she was found and brought to Isaac. Abraham did provide for Ishmael and his other sons, but not part of the larger inheritance. 

Isaac and Ishmael bury Abraham with Sarah in the land purchased previously. It appears that Isaac and Ishmael did get along at least to some degree. We learn about the descendants of Ishmael and then his death. God blessed him to live many years (130), at least by our standards. 

We see as Isaac goes on with his life that like his mother, Rebekah has trouble conceiving. We will encounter many of the same problems in our life that our parents and their parents before them. Like the example set by Abraham, we need to take our petitions to the Lord and pray that his will is done. Rebekah conceives and while she is baring the child she finds out there are two babies to be born. They seem to fight in her womb and God tells her that there are two in her womb and they and their seed will fight one another. Great is God's vision of the future because it already is laid out before him. 

Esau is born, then Jacob soon after holding onto the heal of Esau. This was a special moment that had deep significance to them both. The elder is usually the ruler in the family, but we see here that was not going to be the case. As often happens, parents take sides or have favorites and Isaac's favorite was Esau and Rebekah's was Jacob. We will come to more of that in future chapters, but at the end of this one, Esau comes in faint from the fields and sells his birthright to Jacob. What God gives us, lets all hold it dear to our hearts and never sell it or give it away because he might be faint of heart. 

Spotlight of the Week William Wilberforce

William Wilberforce

One of the pioneers who fought for the complete abolition of slavery was William Wilberforce. William spent 50 years fighting to end slavery in England. It was said that he was very small in stature, almost a dwarf and that he was also hunched back. He wasn't much to look at but it was said that when he got on a table to speak he became a giant. 

William was born to some privilege and enjoyed a comfortable life. He was traveling in Europe when he read The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul by Philip Doddridge. After this he started reading his bible and praying regularly. He became a supporter of evangelical Christianity and from this and his love for Jesus Christ he become opposed to slavery. He took on abolition as a mission in his life. 

He was told even by religious leaders at the time that what he wanted was an impossible thing and that he would never see the end of slavery. He eventually he had to give up parliament because of failing health, and on his death bed on July 26th 1833 he was told that Bill for the Abolition of Slavery was passed; and he passed away three days later. 

Genesis 24

Abraham finds a wife for Isaac

As a matter of personal opinion, I believe that the person we marry (if you are going to marry) is the second most important decision we will ever make behind Salvation. There was a reason God ordered the Hebrews not to intermarry with other countries. It wasn't about racism, but was that they were to love and marry those that thought of, and served God the way the Israelites were commanded to. To be unequally yoked is a real and confining issue. 

Abraham wanted someone for his son that believed the same way they did. He knew it would help him in his service to God. I know this may shock some people, but we are here to serve God, not please a spouse. I believe two people that love one another will have a beautiful marriage if they put God first. Most probably the marriage will last ONLY if they put God before each other. 

Abraham orders his servant to go find a wife from his brothers family. The servant knows this is an important task and not and easy one. He asks Abraham how he will be sure of his journey and Abraham informs him that God has already prepared the way. Make sure that if God sends you on a mission for his purpose, he has already prepared the way. 

The servant goes off to find the bride and is met with success just as God had assured Abraham it would be. He finds Rebekah and she is an honest and eager helper of the servant. The servant assures and convinces Laban, Rebekah's brother, that this is truly from God and meant to be. 

The servant brings Rebekah back to Abraham and Isaac and she becomes Isaac's wife and the mother of Jacob and Esau. 

Genesis 23

Sarah dies and Abraham prepares for her burial. 

After a long blessed life, Sarah dies. Abraham comes to mourn for her, but he wants a proper place for her body to rest that is far from his own sight. He doesn't want to be daily reminded of her death and how much he misses her. We are to do well in our own lives if we put our sorrows and sins out of our sight and only look to them so that we remember God's blessings, and remember our sins long enough to not commit them a second time. 

Abraham comes to the people of  Heth to purchase a burying place for Sarah. Abraham was a herdsman and shepherd, so he no doubt had dealings with these people time and again and sold live stock with them. So the children of Heth were happy to just give the land Abraham wanted to him. Abraham wouldn't have it that way and made sure that in front of witnesses he paid for the land. They knew that Abraham was good for the money, but he insisted it was paid for then. There is a lesson here for us as well. Matthew Poole suggests that we are not to ever be indebted people in this world because they may want something from us in return in the future that is against our beliefs. It is better to only have what you can pay for at the time and let God take care of you.

The land is described beautifully in this chapter, and no doubt, that beauty will not compare to the resting place Christ has gone to prepare for us. 

Genesis 22

Abraham's faith is tested

The bible calls Isaac a lad, so we feel he is old enough to understand some things, but not yet an adult. God comes to Abraham and tells him to go to a place of God's choosing and offer Isaac for a sacrifice. Needless to say, this would put Abraham in a grievous position. Never the less, Abraham obeys and does as God asks. On the journey, Isaac has enough understanding to realize that there is no sacrifice with them. Abraham  tells Isaac what still holds true to this day and is the foretelling of the Messiah, that God will provide a sacrifice. 

Despite the torment Abraham must have been going through, he obeys and goes to sacrifice his son. God, who is always on time, sends and angel to stay his hand. In verse 17 God reiterates his promise to Abraham because of his faithfulness. We must believe that Jesus saves us from our sins, but we also must believe enough to put it into action. 

The chapter ends to show of the generations of Abraham's brother that will provide a wife for Isaac in an upcoming chapter. 

Genesis 21

Isaac is Born

Sarah conceives a son just as the Lord had promised. It truly is a miracle for Sarah is well past child bearing age. This goes along with our faith in Jesus Christ. We were dead in sin with no hope of new life until Jesus made a sacrifice on the cross that gave us life where none before existed. It says that the Lord visited her, just as he visits us to draw us out of sin and into his righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him). 

They called him Isaac which means laughter. Abraham and Sarah both laughed when it came to believing God and his promise, but now they laugh with a joy and unbelief of God's mercy. So there is this time of joy and reaping that we will all enjoy from time to time. The season, as all of life is, is just passing though. It is not long before strife comes to the tents of Abraham. Ishmael mocks Isaac and Sarah sees it. It seems that Ishmael is not old enough to come to this understanding on his own, and he had some encouragement from Hagar; we don't know this for certain, but it seems likely. 

Sarah wants Hagar and Ishmael gone from there presence. God tells Abraham to go ahead and send Ishmael out of the camp, but make no mistake, they are still paying for past sins. After Hagar and the child are cast out, God remembers his covenant with Abraham about his seed, even though Ishmael was not the one God had originally meant when he created the covenant with Abraham. God looks after Hagar and promises that Ishmael will become a great nation. 

Some time passes and we encounter Abimelech again. He wants what we would now call an alliance or peace treaty with Abraham. Abimelech knows that God had blessed Abraham and that Abraham is growing in God's blessings. It doesn't hurt that Abimelech been warned of God in the past about Abraham when Abimelech took Sarah. After Abraham corrects Abimelech about a fight at a well, they enter into their alliance. We would do well to make friends and bonds with all of God's faithful servants. 

Spotlight of the Week G.K. Chestertson

G.K. Chestertson

Gilbert Keith Chestertson was an English writer and thinker born in England in 1874. He wrote everything from philosophy, plays, poems, to Christian apologetics. His writing of the 'Everlasting Man' is credited by C.S. Lewis to putting him on the path toward Christ.  

He has been called a paradox because of the way he pointed things out in his writing. He would use the points people used to make their points against them. It is said that no one ever accomplished this quite like Mr Chestertson. God blessed him with wonderful reasoning, but at times, he would get lost at the train station and take the wrong train. He was a large man said to be 6 foot 4 and 290 lbs. He died in his sixties from congestive heart failure, but he left behind an enormous volume of writing. He is quote quite often by Evangelists and others, so below is a sampling of his quotes. 

An adventure is only an inconvenience rightly considered. An inconvenience is an adventure wrongly considered.

Art, like morality, consists of drawing the line somewhere.

It is not bigotry to be certain we are right; but it is bigotry to be unable to imagine how we might possibly have gone wrong.

If there were no God, there would be no Atheists.

There is a great deal of difference between an eager man who wants to read a book and the tired man who wants a book to read.

"If men will not be governed by the Ten Commandments, they shall be governed by the ten thousand commandments."

-quotes by G. K. Chesterton

Spotlight Person Ira D. Sankey

Ira D. Sankey

Was a well-known singer song writer that partnered with D.L. Moody. Born and raised in Pennsylvania and converted at the age of 16, he grew up and and served in the Civil War before taking a position as with the IRS and YMCA.

He met DL Moody at a convention at the YMCA in Indianapolis. Sankey was already known as a gospel singer and after meeting Moody attended an evangelistic meeting with him and the two traveled together as Preacher and Singer after Sankey resigned from employers.

He traveled extensively with DL Moody around the US and even over sees to England. Where Moody preached, Sankey sang. Ira Sankey is known for many songs and song books. His most famous song is probably the Ninety and Nine.

From Wikipedia

Sankey and Moody were en route from Glasgow to Edinburgh, Scotland, in May, 1874, as they were to hold a three-day campaign there. This was at the urgent request of the Ministerial Association. Prior to boarding the train, Sankey bought a weekly newspaper for a penny. He found nothing of interest but a sermon by Henry W. Beecher and some advertisements. Then, he found a little piece of poetry in a corner of one column that he liked, and he read it to Moody, but only received a polite reply. Sankey clipped the poem and tucked it in his pocket. At the noon day service of the second day of the special series, Moody preached on The Good Shepherd. Horatius Bonar added a few thrilling words and then Moody asked Mr. Sankey if he had a final song. An inner voice prompted him to sing the hymn that he found on the train. With conflict of spirit, he thought, this is impossible! The inner voice continued to prod him, even though there was no music to the poem, so he acquiesced. As calmly as if he had sung it a thousand times, he placed the little piece of newspaper on the organ in front of him. Lifting up his heart in a brief prayer to Almighty God, he then laid his hands on the keyboard, striking a chord in A flat. Half speaking and half singing, he completed the first stanza, which was followed by four more. Moody walked over with tears in his eyes and said, "Where did you get that hymn?" 'The Ninety and Nine' became his most famous tune and his most famous sale from that time on. The words were written by Elizabeth Clephane in 1868. She died in 1869, little realizing her contribution to the Christian world.

Spotlight Person Chris Walsh and the First Battalion 25th Marine Regiment

Chris Walsh and the First Battalion 25th Marine Regiment (2006)

Chris Walsh was a Navy Medic assigned to a Marine regiment in Fallujah Iraq in 2006. While out on patrol an IED exploded close to their Humvee. The insurgent that set off the bomb was spotted on a rooftop some ways off and the foot pursuit started. After entering a particular house a woman came out of a room running up to these fulling armed men and held up a baby and said 'Baby. Baby sick!'. Chris Walsh put down his rifle and tended to this sick child. 

The story is both sad and heart wrenching. But this story goes on to tell of perseverance and love and dedication to what is right. I cannot do the story justice, so I will link to the rest of the story. These men, and unfortunately Chris Walsh and many of the men who intervened on behalf of this little baby Mariam were killed by a roadside bomb some months after this incident. Thankfully the men of their squad took up the mission and now baby Mariam is living a normal life. 

You can find out more about the story here! You can see a video of the story here!

Spotlight Person of the Week Dr. John Lennox

Dr. John Lennox

Dr John Lennox is a Professor of Mathematics at Oxford, a fellow in Mathematics and the Philosophy of Science, and Pastoral Adviser  at Green Tempelton College in Oxford. He was an Exibitioner and Senior Scholar at Emmanuel College, Cambridge where he sat in on the last lectures of C.S. Lewis. 

None of this would make him stand out or become famous if it wasn't for his hardy and unmoveable defense of the Bible and the Christian religion. He believes that science does not do away with religion but actually confirms it. He has authored many books about about how religion, ethics, and science are intertwined.

Almost ten years ago he switched from not only writing books refuting atheists and there view of science, but  then started to do live debates with some of the world's most famous atheists. Many of these debates, if not all, you can find online and watch for free. He also does talks which are available for download at Ravi Zacharias International Ministries. I believe our faith in God and the saving power of his Son, Jesus Christ, have little to do with the modern interpretation of science. Before you go thinking that science and the Holy Bible are incompatible, have a listen to John Lennox online or read one of his many books on the subject. 

Genesis 20

Genesis chapter 20

Abraham picks up and moves south. The only reason given for this is that 'God caused me to wander'. We know that we will do a some 'wandering' of our own in this life. The geographic location we are in does not have any baring on our relationship with our savior. Our communion with God is done in our hearts and on our knees in prayer, not in a certain place. God is still God no matter where we are or what condition we are in and he can and does answer prayers no matter what.

When they come to the land of Gerar, Abimelech the king takes Sarah. Even that this advanced age it appears that she is still very beautiful. Unfortunately this is familiar territory for Abraham, having been in this situation with Pharaoh in Egypt. When Abraham was in a strange place he would tell Sarah to tell anyone they ran into that they were brother and sisters. This was a fact and not a lie because Abraham and Sarah had the same father, just not the same mother. He did this so that they would not kill Abraham and take Sarah all to themselves. I commented earlier that this does show a lack of faith on Abraham's part. In an evil land with evil leaders, you can see what he is trying to accomplish, but we need to go and let God work out the details.

God wastes no time in protecting his own people and the covenant that he has promised both Abraham, Sarah, and all of mankind. He visits Abimelech in a dream and tells him in no uncertain terms that he is a dead man for what he has done. Abimelech pleads with God and tells him he has not touched the woman and only took her because he was somewhat mislead by Abraham. God puts a plague on Abimelech and all his house that they won't reproduce until all is returned. Abimelech doesn't harden his heart like the Pharaoh many years later in his dealings with Moses.

Abimelech not only gives Sarah back, but gives silver and riches as well. Abraham prays for Abimelech and his household and the Lord lifts the curse. When we encounter troubles, we out to be quick to seek forgiveness and restore anything to our brothers and sisters that we have taken unjustly or even by accident; so that the Lord will bless our Christian life.

Genesis 19

Genesis chapter 19

To start of the chapter we see the angels coming to Sodom. The good hospitality that Abraham had seems to run in the family. Lot, once seeing the angels, runs to greet them and give them a place to stay and refresh themselves. After some insisting, the angels agree to stay with Lot, but this scene takes place in front of others in the city. After going indoors to eat the people outside gain up courage and knock on the door of Lot's house. You can argue what they wanted with the angels until the eighth verse where Lot, evidently knowing their intentions, offers his daughters to the assailants. Offering his daughters doesn't make this situation in any way better. Although there is a place in judges where a similar incident happens, at no time does the bible ever instruct or give us permission to offer anyone else up to assuage evil. We may offer our own lives to save another, but we can never give another for sacrifice to sin, that is evil. The mob from Sodom will have none of this, so the angels pull Lot back inside and blind the people outside. What is even more disturbing about this is the fact that is appears the people outside, even though they were blinded, still tried to get in. That is the definition of Evil.

The angels insist that Lot gather his family and go because they are going to destroy the city. There are not five righteous and it is time for them to leave if they want to spare their own lives. This is the example for all of us, leave sin now while you can before judgment comes and there is no more escaping. Lot lingers, either from paralyzed fear or procrastination and the angel must take him and his family by the hand and remove them from the city. They are warned to not look back on the city for fear of being turned into a pillar of salt. Before the journey is completed Lot begs that they may enter into the city of Zoar because they are tired from the journey. On the way, Lot's wife looks back on the city and is turned to a pillar of salt just as they are warned.  After God has purged us from our sins there is nothing to go back to or nothing to look back upon. Nothing good can come from us looking longingly back on the life that we no longer have a part of. Also, God will not give us a journey that he will also not supply the grace to travel completely. Lot was tired, disheartened and afraid, but he should have taken the full journey with the angels and not stopped short.

So God sends his judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah. They were not without hope or opportunities to come clean. Christianity is not about what God is going to do to us, but about what we decide to do with our lives with our own free will. We make the choice, the consequences are very clear and the warning has been given. Abraham wakes up in the morning and sees the smoke coming from Sodom. You know his first thoughts were of Lot and his family. He also knows that God was not able to find five righteous. Lot is spared, and God does hear our prayers and pleas.

Lot and his family are dwelling in a cave in a mountain by Zoar. Isolation is not for a servant of God. Lot discovers this too late even with the warning of Sodom before him. His daughters imagine an evil thing and Lot gets too drunk to know or do anything about it. What a sad state that we would get so far from God we don't remember our actions. No doubt, when we get in a situation like this, nothing good is going to come of it. So the 'righteous' that was saved from Sodom will give birth to a people that will be a thorn in the side of Israel forever.

Spotlight Person of the Week Lakshimi Narayan Gowda

Lakshimi Narayan Gowda

This weeks spotlight person is the first person of seven people mentioned in Voice of the Martyrs book, Saul to Paul. It is a book about seven men who at one time persecuted God's Church, but now are born again preachers spreading the Gospel.

Lakshimi was born in India to a prominent Hindu family and ran into hard times growing up. He became involved in crime and other things every parent hopes their children do not get involved in. While in jail for various crimes Lakshimi was beaten badly and many of his bones were broken in his arms and legs. He withstood this pain and didn't just die. From this experience he was recruited by the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) movement because they thought he was 'strong'. This organization felt they could use someone who could 'endure' so much torture. 

The RSS is an organization with 'selfless service to the motherland'. If that sounds creepily familiar, yes, that is the kind of organization they are. Lakshimi excelled in his new home with the RSS. So much so after planning and participating in attacks on Christians he was promoted within the group. This life took its toll on Lakshimi and he drank  heavily and injected drugs. His mother, in the hospital for poor health was crying out for someone to help her save her son. She was introduced to the Bible and though skeptical, she kept the Bible and starting praying because she was told that Jesus could heal and save her son.

After coming very close to successfully planning and executing an attack on a church and a pastor's family; providentially only the church was damaged but the pastor and  his family were not there the night of the attack. After this incident one night coming home in a drunken mess, he found his mothers Bible she had been hiding. He attacked his mother and hit her repeatedly while she told him that Jesus could help him. He had never hit is mother before calming down he convinced his mother to give him the bible and he read from John that night. He cried out to God and he was saved that night. 

He was later nurtured in his young Christian faith by the very pastor he tried to kill one night. He grew in faith and became his own pastor over a church he started and has now suffered by the same people he once served. Quoting from the book Saul to Paul, 'Gowda soon returned to preaching the gospel. And whenever he saw a saffron-clad former brother (of the RSS) he would smile. Another opportunity, he thought, to save the lost'.

Spotlight Person Sir William Mitchell Ramsay

Sir William Mitchell Ramsay

Was born in Glasgow Scotland on the 15th of March in 1851. His father died when he was only six and the family moved to the country. Despite these circumstances he was brought up given the best of educations thanks to help from his extended family. He discovered early on that he wanted to study and liked the scholarly life, but wanted nothing to do with teaching. 

After years of study he became an expert in archaeology in and around Asia Minor. He had a reputation for doing more with less than any other archaeologist of that time. In his career he turned his attention to the historicity of Luke's account of the new testament, especially Paul's journeys in Asia Minor, to quote him 'I had read a good deal of modern criticism of the book'. Mr Ramsay believed what others thought that the book was written in the second century to influence people, not an account by one who followed Paul. 

William Ramsay latter published a book about his findings called 'The Bearing of Recent Discoveries on. the Trustworthiness of the New Testament'. Mr Ramsay not only came to believe in the accuracy of Acts and Paul's journeys, but also thought that Luke was not only real but one of the greater historians of that time. Not only this, he came to believe that the book of Acts was not only theological, but actually factually and accurately historical. 

Not much can be found that proves William Ramsay was a Christian before or after his studies. There are sources on the Internet that claim he converted to Christ, but I haven't found words written by William Ramsay's own hands that says either he was an atheist or Christian. I would like to know if he ever published his feelings on that matter. 

I am a firm believer that truth will come out in the end. I believe and have faith that the Bible is accurate and true, and the more time goes on, we will discover it to be so. William Ramsay went a long way in proving much of the New Testament account to be true. Also, please don't misunderstand, my faith in Jesus Christ is dependent upon my Faith and the Holy Ghost, not the archaeological work of any man. I find the story of William Ramsay to be an intriguing one. 

Genesis 18

Genesis chapter 18

We have in this chapter one of the rare cases that the Lord himself walked on the earth in the Old Testament. He came down to deliver a message to Abraham and deliver justice to Sodom and Gomorrah. News sometimes comes in life just as it does here in this chapter. News comes and it is good, but also there is bad news. We know that Abraham waited all his life for the news of a son of his own with Sarah, but we know he also didn't want to hear the news about the city in which Lot lived.

Abraham greats these 'strangers' like we should greet all those that we have the opportunity to show graciousness too. He kills the fat calf, and prepares the best possible meal and wants to do his best for these new guests. I believe if Abraham did not know exactly who it was in his midst, he had a good idea. Oh, that we would always be ready when the Lord might appear.

After sitting down to eat the news comes quickly that God will grant Abraham and Sarah their son. The news catches Sarah off guard and she laughs within herself. God knows our innermost thoughts and feelings, and there is no need to try and hide or deny them from him; he knows.

As the meal is over the guests get up to leave and head to Sodom. The Lord asks his companions if he should keep hidden the reason they are going to Sodom. God knows our hearts, he knows are pleas, and just as he loved us, he also knows who we love. Our Savior knows when we have deep feelings for someone, and therefore many times Christ will hear our plea for them. Christ knew that Abraham loved his nephew and their family. Jesus knew that there were those in those cities that Abraham had dealings with and would want to spare their lives if he could at all help.

The other two people go on but Christ stays to talk with Abraham and tell him all about their mission that evening. Abraham pleads that the city might be spared if fifty are found righteous and the Lord agrees. Abraham has doubts that there might be that many down there that are righteous so he pleads with the Lord till he gets to only ten righteous and the Lord mercifully agrees. The Lord knows there are only five, but he still hears the cries of his servant. Though our petitions are not always answer, have faith that our Lord and Savior hears them all.

Genesis 17

Genesis chapter 17

As Abram gets into his nineties, God has not forgotten him and he renews his covenant with him. Notice that God tells him to be perfect. We know that Abram has sinned, and is not perfect, but God instructs him, and I believe us also, to be perfect. We are not to be perfect by our own might, but by his. We will most likely never be perfect down here, but whatever sin we may have in our past, we are to seek forgiveness, then seek to be without sin through Jesus Christ.

Now with the renewing of this covenant, God gives Abram the new name of Abraham which means Father of many or a multitude. God reminds Abraham that this covenant is forever and it will be everything that God has promised it would be. With this covenant that was up until this point by faith, God will also have his covenant with Abraham be a physical one as well. Not outwardly, but real and permanent. Isn't this the covenant we have in our hearts with Salvation? Our continence might change, but our outward physical appearance doesn't alter; just the heart.

God is going to change Sarai's name to Sarah. She will bear children and Abraham laughs in his heart at this idea. He knows that Sarah is just as old as him and he doesn't see it happening. Let us all remember that just as God reminds Abraham the inheritance will INDEED come from Sarah's womb, that God's ways are not our ways and he will bring what he promises to pass whether we think it possible or not. God goes so far as to tell Abraham when this child will come and what his name will be. God is specific with our purpose in life.

So Abraham goes and does as God commands and circumcises his entire household, servants and all. Let us all try and be thorough with what God would have us do with and in our lives.

Spotlight Person for Sunday School

Dr. Benjamin Solomon Carson Sr

"Ben" Carson was born on September 18th, 1951 in Detroit Michigan. He was raised by his mother who had a third grade education and was married at 13 only to discovered later husband was a bigamist.

Ben Carson didn't do well in school until his mother had banned him and his brother from TV and made them read two books a week and give a report on it; not knowing that his mother didn't know how to read!

He did well in Middle School and High School graduating with honors and went on to take Psychology at Yale University because he felt they had the best debate team. After Yale he went to the University of Michigan Medical School.

Ben went on to become a gift and prominent neurosurgeon world re-known for his brain procedures and for helping with the first successful separation of conjoined twins. He has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and is a devout Christian.

He has authored four bestselling books including Gifted Hands which is his autobiography which talks about working hard and having faith in God. You can find his speech at this years Fellowship Foundation National Prayer Breakfast here.

Something New

I wanted to do something new in the Adult Sunday school class. I want to spotlight people who have accomplished something for the Lord despite the circumstance being seemingly against them. If time and opportunity allow, I will spotlight someone before we go into the weeks Sunday school topic, which is in Genesis right now.

The first person I would like to spotlight is Gianna Jessen. You can read more at the link provided here, but to cover just some of what her life has included and what she has overcome. She has Cerebral Palsy, walks with a limp, lived in an orphanage, adopted, then raised to Love the Lord by loving adoptive parents. What is even more amazing though, is that this person that should have never walked and now runs marathons also shouldn't be alive. She was born during a 'saline-abortion' in her mother's third trimester.

God has a big light in this woman and everything she has overcome. You can find more at her website here.

Genesis 16

Genesis chapter 16

The bible is full of characters great and small, wise and foolish, God fearing and sinful. No one, and I mean no one in the Bible is perfect save God and his son Jesus Christ. Even Enoch was born with sin though God took him. I believe we are not to take the sins of great people in the Bible as excuses to sin, but as examples to turn back to God as quickly, humbly, and sincerely as possible.

In this chapter Sarai and Abram both make mistakes by not waiting on God. I myself cannot imagine what it would be like to patiently wait as long as this couple did. Make no mistake though, God is always right on time, every time. Man may not be there when God is ready with the answered prayer, but God is there on time.

Sarai is tired of waiting and she instructs Abram to try and bare a child from Hagar her handmaiden. Abram it says 'hearkened unto the voice of Sarai'. I don't know how many time the Bible records 'hearkened unto the voice of the Lord' but unfortunately, this isn't one of those times.

Abram does as requested of Sarai and Sarai regrets it almost immediately. We will most likely regret the times we do our own thing and not obey God. Abram, who no doubt also feels guilt tells Sarai to do as she wishes with Hagar. Now two people feel miserable about themselves and each other, and another is about to be an outcast for doing what she was told.

God is sympathetic to those that are done wrong and Hagar is no exception. God makes a covenant with Hagar that her son will be a great nation. Unfortunately for the Hebrews, her son will be a thorn in their side for the rest of time.

Genesis 14 & 15

Genesis chapter 14

It  doesn't take long for Lot's choice to catch up with him. The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah decide to stop paying homage to Chedorlaomer. Of course, this doesn't go over very well and Chedorlaomer and his other loyal subject kings decide to come and defeat the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and take their people and possessions. I guess you don't refuse homage if you can't defend yourself.

Someone escapes from this battle comes to tell Abram and his allies Eschol and Aner about the events that transpired. Abram uses his hundreds of 'trained' servants and goes with his allies to get back Lot and all of the possessions of the people of Sodom and Gomorrah. The Bible records that he split his men up and attacked and defeated Chedorlaomer and his army.

After Abram's return we encounter the king of Salem, Melchizedek. This is a mysterious character in the Bible but we do know he is God's priest, and servant and can bless on God's behalf. After the offering by Melchizedek, Abram gives tithes of all victory.

Bera the King of Sodom tries to give Abram all the spoils of war, but Abram won't have any of that. He tells the king that he won't have it said of him that Bera made him rich. He gives back everything but what his allies used and the food his servants ate. God truly does provide if we rely on him.


Genesis chapter 15

Abram (later Abraham) is an example for us all when we doubt. We can go around and complain to whoever might listen about our problems and seemingly unanswered prayers. In the end we will feel worse for it and be no better off. Abram again and again went to God with his doubts. Abram wasn't perfect, and he did sin, but then he would go back and confide in God. If we confided in our Savior as much as we complained, our prayer lives would greatly benefit.

Abram argues with God and says that his only heir is not his own blood. Abram knew how old he and his wife was. There is no other reason for Sarai to conceive when she did but by an absolute miracle of God. God reassures Abram that indeed his heirs will be of his own blood. Isn't that the way with Salvation? God makes us not only adopted heirs but full heirs by Jesus' blood.

God commands Abram to take all of his sacrifices and do as commanded. Abram not only does this but makes sure that no animals or birds take any party of the offering until God answers. Oh, and God answered him through a deep sleep with a grand and terrible vision. God reveals that Abram will die of old age, but his children's children will be in captivity in Egypt. Not to have fear though, because God will bring them out and deliver them into a land of their promise.

Notice that in God's promises he doesn't leave anything out? He also gives great care and detail, for it is nothing for God to fulfill what he says will come to pass.

Genesis 12 & 13

Genesis chapter 12 & 13

Not long after we meet Abram he is told to talk himself and his possessions and leave everything he has ever known. Anything that God asks us to give up in this world is not to be compared with the glories he has in store for us. Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Abram does as he is told and steps out by faith. God promises him that he will be the father of a blessed people. God is quick to show us what is in store if we will only listen and obey.

As Abram leaves Haran and goes out with just his family and his nephew Lot, he quickly finds the land of the Canaanite which we know are the descendants of Ham. Abram wastes no time to build and altar and make a sacrifice to the Lord for his mercies. We should all be quick to go to God in prayer and not only pray for those in need, but to give thanks for the many wonderful blessings he gives us.

As God would do again years later to show himself strong, a famine sends Abram and his people down to Egypt.While their, Abram fears that someone will take his wife because of her beauty and thinks up a lie to protect her. It turns out that is is not the lie, but the hand of God that protects her and brings her back safely to Abram. So it will be in our lives as well; it is not our own doing but the hand of God that will deliver us.

In the thirteenth chapter Abram is leaving Egypt and we hear that he has great possessions. He returns to Bethel (which is a place and theme that will also be visited again years later) and builds and alter again for the Lord. Thanking God once would only suffice if he only was good to us once but God's mercies are renewed every day and we should be thankful everyday, building many private alters of prayer to God.

With all this great possession comes great problems. Lot and Abrams servants can not get along and they need to put distance between their property. Make sure that we may from time to time need time and space from other people. We may need time alone in solitude, but we are never to separate ourselves from God at anytime. Here Abram separates himself from Lot but not from God. Lot seems to separate himself from both Abram and his God.

Abram gives Lot the choice of the land he wants to dwell in and Lot takes the easier more pleasant land. Make no mistake, that we can live in the best of times and with the best of intentions and still not serve God. Abram takes the harsher land and still lives and increases in the Lord.

Lot chooses the land closer to the wickedness of Sodom. Abram, after making the better choice, is reminded by God of the covenant. If we stay in close proximity to God, he will remind us and encourage us of the promises that are yet to come. So the chapter ends with Abram doing what he always does, and that is sacrificing to God for his blessing and the promise to come.

Genesis 10 & 11

Genesis chapter 10 and chapter 11

We start out with learning some of the descendants of Noah's Children. We have their names, where they lived and in some cases, what the people were known for. Nimrod was a mighty hunter and the cities of Babel, Nineveh, Asshur, and Cush are all built. We here about many of these cities in our history books, and no doubt, these are the earliest cities on earth since they were created after the flood.

At the end of the chapter, we noticed that the people were united with one tongue. We know that if you are going to accomplish anything great you need unity. The Church needs unity with each other and the Holy Ghost, and the world needs unity to accomplish endeavors as well. This all ends soon because of mans sins.

Man is never satisfied with what God gives him. There was the Garden, then man's dominion over earth, and not after a fresh start man needs to create a tower to Heaven. While on this earth, the best way to get close to God is through prayer and obedience.

While the tower is under construction God causes the people to have different languages which causes great chaos and stops the construction of the tower. Man is scattered across the earth because man can no longer be in unity. Out of this disorder comes the line of Shem that goes on to bring us Abram. Here, early on in the Bible we have the 'father of faith', and the start of his journey in obedience.