
Bible Study
Armies in the First Century A.D. (from Christian Report, 2009)
In May, we celebrate the 234th birthday of the United States Army. Because of this, I wanted to look at Biblical references to armies. The Old Testament references are too numerous to list here, so I will only mention the New Testament references.
The Gospel of Matthew 22:7 says, "but the king was enraged and sent his armies and destroyed those murderers and set their city on fire.¨ This has happened many times throughout history, as armies have fought armies. It continues today in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
The Gospel of Luke 21: 20 states, "But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that her desolation is at hand.¨ This reminds me of when Israel became a nation in 1948. Some say that it was a pivotal time in history and biblical prophecy. Do not be surprised if we continue to see Israel in …
Stretched Thin (Christian Report, Aug, 2009)
As I start my fifteenth year of ministry, I realize I have been stretched thin. I started as a missionary in Youth With A Mission, ministering in the USA, Europe, Asia, and Africa for two years. I burned out, trying to “save the world” myself. I then went to seminary, getting a foundation for ministry. Serving churches during those three years helped me survive the academic stress.
After this, I was a Youth Director for a year at a denominational church. It was busy, fulfilling work, but I realized youth ministry was not my strength. A Medical Center accepted me as a Chaplain Resident for Clinical Pastoral Education for a year. This again was fulfilling work, but it was hard on me emotionally as I experienced a death a week in the Emergency Department.
At this point in life, I joined the Army as a chaplain. After the Officer Basi…
Thank you so much for sharing about some of the difficult and trying times that you have experienced. While different, I have gone through many such seasons myself. I could myself in good company to see that other saints face them and I especially appreciate your spiritual encouragement!
The Disciple’s Convictions – Christ and the Law
Focus: Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law; surpassing Pharisaic righteousness
Why this section: A hinge that protects from legalism and sets the stage for heart-level obedience. For those accustomed to regulations, it clarifies the difference between rule-keeping and Spirit-empowered righteousness (c/o Herschel Hughes Jr and Paul Morris of CMF) footnotes from biblegateway.com
Matthew 5:17-20
17 “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. CHRIST DID NOT WANT TO GET RID OF THE OLD TESTAMENT. HE AND THE NEW TESTAMENT FULFILLS IT. MESSIANIC CHRISTIANS TEND TO TRY TO FOLLOW BOTH.
18 For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not [h]the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. YOU CAN TRUST IN THE RELIABILITY OF SCRIPTURE (1)

Excellent!