Thursday, November 17, 2011
Republican Extremists/Tea Party Theology vs. Real Christian Theology
1. Taxes are evil – Give unto Ceaser what belongs to Ceaser [Jesus replied with that quote when some asked about paying taxes to Ceaser. Clearly the meaning is taxes are both acceptable and need to be paid!]
2. Every man/woman/child for themselves – We must share each others burden[s].
3. If someone needs help, they're on their own – When someone rejoices, rejoice with them likewise when someone cries, cry with them.
4. Regulation of any sector by the government is evil – Jesus championed fair business practices, and it's logical to believe that He would find fair regulation acceptable!
5. Government Assistance is a 'socialist conspiracy' – Jesus said 'give to those in need' , He didn't say only private citizens should, he said everyone should!
6. We answer to nobody – Jesus taught us to hold each other accountable.
7. The government should answer to the church – history shows this is a bad idea, Christ Himself never directly said it is BUT He did speak strongly against the Pharisees and Sadducees both of which mixed religion and politics.
8. Dissent/Opposition should be silenced – Christ listened to all, regardless if they accepted Him as The Messiah!
9. Government should make laws based on religious beliefs – Christ was against the Pharisees and Sadducees who did that, He'd be against it today! * Our Constitution also forbids this.
10. All truly religious believers are conservative – Jesus was anything but conservative, in fact, His teachings were quite liberal!
11. Republican's are the true political party representing Christianity – Christ kept religion and politics separate, and He claimed no political titles or positions like parties.
Clearly the Extremist Republican's and Tea Party members have twisted religion to their own ends. All the while they cry out against some so called Muslim's like Bin Laden, Al-Alawi and Allatoya Komeini.
That means that the Republican Extremists and the Tea Partiers are hypocrites and no better then the ones they claim to want to protect us from!
~Reverend J [Non Denominational, Independent Christian Minister]
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Rep. Ryan doesn't seem to get it [and perhaps not even care]!
So you may have noticed, but it's getting harder and harder to not be called a liberal. Even for those in the middle. It's also becoming harder and harder to say you're a conservative with out being branded an extremists.
Sen. Ryan is making sure of that for you. Today, the Senate is voting on his 'budget proposal' for 2012. This is a proposal that would endanger MediCare as we know it. It would attempt to curb spending on the backs of those who need our safety net. It doesn't curb spending or out of control deficit by cutting tax loop holes that tend to favour the rich and powerful. It doesn't cut subsidies [usually in the form of tax exemptions] to Big Oil companies [who make $Billions ... but seem to need pampered by our government.] nor does it make the rich pay their fair share.
Somehow, I can't see how this is moral. I know I'm not the only one. I do believe the budget should be more balanced, we need to curb spending and the deficit. But on the backs of those in need is not the way it should be done. That, is simply Immoral! No other way to put it.
When other Republican's are chastised for speaking out against the Ryan budget proposal [Gingrich was] then it's a sure sing that not only is the proposal off base, but that the party is out for power and wishes to control their members with an iron fist [same goes for when any other party does that!]
So what can be done? We've already seen a staunch Republican congressional district go to a Democrat in a special election. First time in over 100 years. Make no mistakes, that should show you that the general public doesn't want to balance the budget on the backs of those in need. So one thing we can do, is vote! Vote those who pamper the rich and powerful out!
Another thing? Speak up ... be heard! If we don't speak up, then nobody will hear us and nothing will change. Use Twitter , Facebook , MySpace , LinkedIn , Google Buzz , Email , Txt Msg's just speak up!
Finally, write congress. This is the United States of America. The worlds largest, freest Democracy. We have the right [and a duty] to contact our Senators and Congressional Representatives and tell them what we think. So do it already ...
Below the stars is a copy of a letter I sent to Senator Paul Ryan. I used a form on Faithful America's website. [http://www.faithfulamerica.org/action/ ]
Use it as a template or write you own. Just do something!
***
Mr. Ryan~
Have a heart. You claim some moral high ground in this fight. You are errant in that claim though.
It is nothing but IMMORAL to balance the budget on the backs of those who need help, all the while giving those that don't need help a free pass.
If you were honestly concerned about balancing the budget, bringing down our debt and controlling spending, ALL of which NEED done, you would seek to eliminate tax loop holes that favour the rich, powerful and corp.'s.
You'd demand Big Oil and Big business to pay their fair share. You'd demand the rich pay their fair share.
None of these actions are being done by you though. Which leads me to believe you don't care for anyone but yourself and the rich.
Be a real man, be a real believer [in God and in America] and stop your madeness!
~Rev. J Marin
Sen. Ryan is making sure of that for you. Today, the Senate is voting on his 'budget proposal' for 2012. This is a proposal that would endanger MediCare as we know it. It would attempt to curb spending on the backs of those who need our safety net. It doesn't curb spending or out of control deficit by cutting tax loop holes that tend to favour the rich and powerful. It doesn't cut subsidies [usually in the form of tax exemptions] to Big Oil companies [who make $Billions ... but seem to need pampered by our government.] nor does it make the rich pay their fair share.
Somehow, I can't see how this is moral. I know I'm not the only one. I do believe the budget should be more balanced, we need to curb spending and the deficit. But on the backs of those in need is not the way it should be done. That, is simply Immoral! No other way to put it.
When other Republican's are chastised for speaking out against the Ryan budget proposal [Gingrich was] then it's a sure sing that not only is the proposal off base, but that the party is out for power and wishes to control their members with an iron fist [same goes for when any other party does that!]
So what can be done? We've already seen a staunch Republican congressional district go to a Democrat in a special election. First time in over 100 years. Make no mistakes, that should show you that the general public doesn't want to balance the budget on the backs of those in need. So one thing we can do, is vote! Vote those who pamper the rich and powerful out!
Another thing? Speak up ... be heard! If we don't speak up, then nobody will hear us and nothing will change. Use Twitter , Facebook , MySpace , LinkedIn , Google Buzz , Email , Txt Msg's just speak up!
Finally, write congress. This is the United States of America. The worlds largest, freest Democracy. We have the right [and a duty] to contact our Senators and Congressional Representatives and tell them what we think. So do it already ...
Below the stars is a copy of a letter I sent to Senator Paul Ryan. I used a form on Faithful America's website. [http://www.faithfulamerica.org/action/ ]
Use it as a template or write you own. Just do something!
***
Mr. Ryan~
Have a heart. You claim some moral high ground in this fight. You are errant in that claim though.
It is nothing but IMMORAL to balance the budget on the backs of those who need help, all the while giving those that don't need help a free pass.
If you were honestly concerned about balancing the budget, bringing down our debt and controlling spending, ALL of which NEED done, you would seek to eliminate tax loop holes that favour the rich, powerful and corp.'s.
You'd demand Big Oil and Big business to pay their fair share. You'd demand the rich pay their fair share.
None of these actions are being done by you though. Which leads me to believe you don't care for anyone but yourself and the rich.
Be a real man, be a real believer [in God and in America] and stop your madeness!
~Rev. J Marin
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Love for one another
Love for one another:
If Christ walked the earth today, what political party would He belong to? (I'll give you a hint, if you answered Republican, you're wrong! If you answered Democrat, you're also wrong!) What specific denomination would He belong to? (Hint, unless you answered NONE, you're wrong!) Would He use The Scriptures to condemn anyone? (No) Or would He use them to teach us how we should treat one another and how we should interact with Him?
If Christ walked in to a church today, how would you treat Him? Do you think He really cares 'how' you worship? (i.e. what type of music is used, what instruments are used?) Do you think He would care 'how' you baptized someone? (i.e. full immersion or sprinkling?) Maybe what translation of The Scriptures you use? (He spoke in the contemporary language of His day … just think on that.)
Would He want religion forced on others via a government or a church? Would He be angered that the government tries to help those in need? What if we stand for freedom for all? What if we allow freedom to believe or not to believe?
Sadly, I feel that, over time, we've distorted who Christ is and what He stands for! We cling to man made rules and norms and forget the heart of His message. We grow callous and close ourselves off from those who may differ in how they view this or that part of The Scriptures.
The foundation of EVERYTHING Christ stands for, of EVERYTHING He taught, of EVERYTHING we should do, is LOVE! John the Apostle said in his chronicle of The Gospel that 'God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that none should perish but have everlasting life' (of course this requires belief) (John 3:16)
But what is love? Just a word? Just a tip of the hat towards some social service? NO. It's so much more.
There is a long list in the Apostle Paul's letter to the church (and believers) in Corinth. He recounts how love is an action! How it's patient and kind, how it's forgiving and understanding. How it's not puffed up (showy) and how it endures all things and hopes (that all will be well) all things and how it's unselfish! (1 Corinthians 13, paraphrased)
Yet often we've picked and chosen what parts of this list to follow. We're fine with it being kind but want to show everyone how much love we have. Or we are okay with enduring but not with hoping or forgiving … this isn't how we should be!
Christ isn't about condemnation. He's about LOVE, about Forgiveness and understanding. The Scripture isn't a book of what we can't do, it's a book about what we can do! It's about possibilities and hope, about doing what is needed to care for all (even if it may not be a means we like i.e. a government being involved or another church being involved, even a non religious group being involved)
I'll elaborate on this in a full on article, but I think this will suffice for a blog post. Love is an action, Christ is alive and is NOT about what you can't do, nor is He choosing sides in some political or church battle. He desires for us to care for one another, to look out for one another, to live peaceably (if at all possible) among one another! So If you claim Christ as yours, think of the cost!
This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:35 ISV)
~Rev. J
If Christ walked the earth today, what political party would He belong to? (I'll give you a hint, if you answered Republican, you're wrong! If you answered Democrat, you're also wrong!) What specific denomination would He belong to? (Hint, unless you answered NONE, you're wrong!) Would He use The Scriptures to condemn anyone? (No) Or would He use them to teach us how we should treat one another and how we should interact with Him?
If Christ walked in to a church today, how would you treat Him? Do you think He really cares 'how' you worship? (i.e. what type of music is used, what instruments are used?) Do you think He would care 'how' you baptized someone? (i.e. full immersion or sprinkling?) Maybe what translation of The Scriptures you use? (He spoke in the contemporary language of His day … just think on that.)
Would He want religion forced on others via a government or a church? Would He be angered that the government tries to help those in need? What if we stand for freedom for all? What if we allow freedom to believe or not to believe?
Sadly, I feel that, over time, we've distorted who Christ is and what He stands for! We cling to man made rules and norms and forget the heart of His message. We grow callous and close ourselves off from those who may differ in how they view this or that part of The Scriptures.
The foundation of EVERYTHING Christ stands for, of EVERYTHING He taught, of EVERYTHING we should do, is LOVE! John the Apostle said in his chronicle of The Gospel that 'God so loved the world that He sent His only Son so that none should perish but have everlasting life' (of course this requires belief) (John 3:16)
But what is love? Just a word? Just a tip of the hat towards some social service? NO. It's so much more.
There is a long list in the Apostle Paul's letter to the church (and believers) in Corinth. He recounts how love is an action! How it's patient and kind, how it's forgiving and understanding. How it's not puffed up (showy) and how it endures all things and hopes (that all will be well) all things and how it's unselfish! (1 Corinthians 13, paraphrased)
Yet often we've picked and chosen what parts of this list to follow. We're fine with it being kind but want to show everyone how much love we have. Or we are okay with enduring but not with hoping or forgiving … this isn't how we should be!
Christ isn't about condemnation. He's about LOVE, about Forgiveness and understanding. The Scripture isn't a book of what we can't do, it's a book about what we can do! It's about possibilities and hope, about doing what is needed to care for all (even if it may not be a means we like i.e. a government being involved or another church being involved, even a non religious group being involved)
I'll elaborate on this in a full on article, but I think this will suffice for a blog post. Love is an action, Christ is alive and is NOT about what you can't do, nor is He choosing sides in some political or church battle. He desires for us to care for one another, to look out for one another, to live peaceably (if at all possible) among one another! So If you claim Christ as yours, think of the cost!
This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:35 ISV)
~Rev. J
Friday, March 11, 2011
How could a loving God send someone to hell?
hey all~
first off, this is a copy of a post of mine on a minister's forum. It's from a section where we can post questions that seem like a paradox or contradiction. Questions someone trying to make an argument AGAINST God may make.
after posing the question (that someone may try to use to argue against God) we then suggest answer(s) ... and prove that the question doesn't show a paradox or contradiction in the Bible!
so here it is ....
how can a Loving God allow people to go to hell? it's often asked by someone who is trying to counter the fact we have a Loving God. so how do we (Christians) respond? maybe a few ways ...
1. the free will argument -
counter with the fact that God loves and respects us (humans) enough that He allows us to FREELY choose to accept Him (and thus go to heaven) or to reject Him (and thus go to hell). While that is the truth of the matter (i.e. it's NOT God sending them to hell, rather it's someone choosing to reject Him and thus going to hell) they may throw out another argument ...
Their secondary argument - why would He not provide a guaranteed way (means) for ALL people to eventually make it to Heaven?
Reply to the secondary argument - Everyone is given at the very least one (1) chance to accept Christ!
Their third argument - What about those in the Amazon Jungle or the Heart of Africa? or in some closed communist country? How do they get a chance?
Reply to their third argument - (This one is my PERSONAL BELIEF on this matter. It is NOT directly discussed in The Bible as to how there is a guarantee that everyone gets a chance, BUT in order for God to be a Just God [and He IS] there HAS to be a way! Here's my thoughts) I believe that EVERYBODY will in fact have, at the very least, one (1) chance to accept Christ. If they are in a location where the Gospel is not presented to them (either due to being under an oppressive government OR to being in such a remote locale) then they will have seen the PROOF of a Creator in nature (The Bible says that all nature points to God). Then, in their dying moment, their last moment of life here on earth, I believe that Christ will appear to them (like He did to Saul on the road to Damascus ... when Saul converted and changed his name to Paul) and offer them a chance at forgiveness!
A close reading of The Bible shows that this kind of thing (a up close and personal visitation from God) has happened throughout history. So it's not too far fetched an idea. Since we KNOW God is in fact a Loving God, and that He IS Just, then we know that there has to be someway everyone gets a chance ... so we remove the variables that don't fit the puzzle and what we have left, well there's a good chance what's left is the answer!
So to sum it up, God does NOT 'allow' someone to go to hell. Someone rejecting Him is that person deciding to go to hell instead of heaven. For those who haven't heard of the chance to accept Christ, Christ may very well visit them in their last moments of life to give them the chance!
vaya con Dios
~Rev. J
first off, this is a copy of a post of mine on a minister's forum. It's from a section where we can post questions that seem like a paradox or contradiction. Questions someone trying to make an argument AGAINST God may make.
after posing the question (that someone may try to use to argue against God) we then suggest answer(s) ... and prove that the question doesn't show a paradox or contradiction in the Bible!
so here it is ....
how can a Loving God allow people to go to hell? it's often asked by someone who is trying to counter the fact we have a Loving God. so how do we (Christians) respond? maybe a few ways ...
1. the free will argument -
counter with the fact that God loves and respects us (humans) enough that He allows us to FREELY choose to accept Him (and thus go to heaven) or to reject Him (and thus go to hell). While that is the truth of the matter (i.e. it's NOT God sending them to hell, rather it's someone choosing to reject Him and thus going to hell) they may throw out another argument ...
Their secondary argument - why would He not provide a guaranteed way (means) for ALL people to eventually make it to Heaven?
Reply to the secondary argument - Everyone is given at the very least one (1) chance to accept Christ!
Their third argument - What about those in the Amazon Jungle or the Heart of Africa? or in some closed communist country? How do they get a chance?
Reply to their third argument - (This one is my PERSONAL BELIEF on this matter. It is NOT directly discussed in The Bible as to how there is a guarantee that everyone gets a chance, BUT in order for God to be a Just God [and He IS] there HAS to be a way! Here's my thoughts) I believe that EVERYBODY will in fact have, at the very least, one (1) chance to accept Christ. If they are in a location where the Gospel is not presented to them (either due to being under an oppressive government OR to being in such a remote locale) then they will have seen the PROOF of a Creator in nature (The Bible says that all nature points to God). Then, in their dying moment, their last moment of life here on earth, I believe that Christ will appear to them (like He did to Saul on the road to Damascus ... when Saul converted and changed his name to Paul) and offer them a chance at forgiveness!
A close reading of The Bible shows that this kind of thing (a up close and personal visitation from God) has happened throughout history. So it's not too far fetched an idea. Since we KNOW God is in fact a Loving God, and that He IS Just, then we know that there has to be someway everyone gets a chance ... so we remove the variables that don't fit the puzzle and what we have left, well there's a good chance what's left is the answer!
So to sum it up, God does NOT 'allow' someone to go to hell. Someone rejecting Him is that person deciding to go to hell instead of heaven. For those who haven't heard of the chance to accept Christ, Christ may very well visit them in their last moments of life to give them the chance!
vaya con Dios
~Rev. J
Friday, February 25, 2011
WBC Does NOT Represent True, Biblical Christianity!
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZJwSjor4hM
That's the link to a live interview between a wbc lady (west burrow baptist ... not sure if she's an official spokesperson or just a member) and a supposed member of the hacktivist group anonymous.
what struck me while watching this, and the reason i buzzed this, is how 'polite' (read RUDE) the lady from wbc is. she kept interrupting (maybe she got that from bill o'riely)
this supposed 'spokeswoman for God' is NOT in any way showing a true Biblical faith. She instead is making Christians look horrible.
I'm not touching on the stunt that anon pulled ... that's not the point of this buzz. my point is, how can people like wbc members actually think they are speaking for God? How can true, honest, Biblical Christians allow them to continue to spew their hate and blatant disregard for living peaceably among all men? Isn't it long past the time we stand up and say 'enough is enough'?
again I say, to all those who are not Christians, please ... don't judge us by the wbc extremists. That is NOT what we (Christian's) are really about. We really serve a God who LOVES, who's Patience and Mercy rules how He interacts with us. We really serve a God who allows us free choice and we really serve a God who is Real!
~Rev. J
That's the link to a live interview between a wbc lady (west burrow baptist ... not sure if she's an official spokesperson or just a member) and a supposed member of the hacktivist group anonymous.
what struck me while watching this, and the reason i buzzed this, is how 'polite' (read RUDE) the lady from wbc is. she kept interrupting (maybe she got that from bill o'riely
this supposed 'spokeswoman for God' is NOT in any way showing a true Biblical faith. She instead is making Christians look horrible.
I'm not touching on the stunt that anon pulled ... that's not the point of this buzz. my point is, how can people like wbc members actually think they are speaking for God? How can true, honest, Biblical Christians allow them to continue to spew their hate and blatant disregard for living peaceably among all men? Isn't it long past the time we stand up and say 'enough is enough'?
again I say, to all those who are not Christians, please ... don't judge us by the wbc extremists. That is NOT what we (Christian's) are really about. We really serve a God who LOVES, who's Patience and Mercy rules how He interacts with us. We really serve a God who allows us free choice and we really serve a God who is Real!
~Rev. J
Monday, February 21, 2011
Why would anyone who is FREE oppose Freedom?
I'm sort of an amateur history buff. I love studying history … what happened and why it happened. How it happened and the aftermath of what happened. It's in that vein, my love of history, that this article came to be. But not just that vein alone. Also in that vein is my commitment to freedom for all, to democracy, to compassion and justice and to Christ! So in that sense, this is historical commentary, contemporary commentary, religious commentary and political commentary. So understand you will see all these facets in this article.
Most everyone knows, well strike that, most everyone living in a free country should know, what has been happening in north Africa and across the 'Arab world'. For those who don't, one word sums it up: Revolution!
So far, there has been a sort of coup, peaceful protests and everything in between. Most notably, so far, is Tunisia (where this current revolutionary desire started) and Egypt.
I am somewhat confused though, by some people's comments and reaction to these circumstances. I have a difficult time understanding why some seem to favor supporting a dictator as opposed to supporting the will of the people.
Okay so now I've set up the article, but before I go further, I want you to read something. It's something EVERY AMERICAN SHOULD be familiar with. Still, I insist you read it, and not just gloss over it, but really think about what you read.
“W hen, in the course of human events, it becomes
necessary for one people to dissolve the political
bonds which have connected them with another,
and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate
and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature's
God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind
requires that they should declare the causes which impel them
to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are
created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with
certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty
and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights,
governments are instituted among men, deriving their just
powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any
form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is
the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute
new government, laying its foundation on such principles and
organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem
most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence,
indeed, will dictate that governments long established should
not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly
all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to
suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by
abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when
a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably
the same object evinces a design to reduce them under
absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw
off such government, and to provide new guards for their
future security. ”
I thought about highlighting or underlining some of the quotation there, but it's all extremely important. So it's all emphasized. What is it? The first two paragraphs to The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America. (I hope you already knew that!)
So did you understand it? Really, truly, honestly understand it? I hope so, but just in case … throughout the remainder of this article some will be not only quoted but paraphrased to make its meaning more understandable to you … in contemporary language.
When the Deceleration was penned, it was in response to an oppressive government. The then colonists had very few basic rights. Rights we believe are God given rights! (Regardless or race, creed or religion) In drafting the Deceleration, these men were committing high treason against the oppressors.
Yet they believed, as we should today, that those who have the ability to fix the oppressive system (in that case the British Monarchy) should fix the oppressive system. That even if it means installing a new government, or new system of government, it should be done!
This action should only be done when there is a long train of abuses. A history of having the rights we all deserve taken away from us. The rights to peaceably gather (and protest), the rights to be secure, to believe, think and say that which we want to. The right to travel freely, to live freely, to die freely.
Today, most all Americans profess a deep support of our forefathers. A support and respect for The Deceleration, The Bill of Rights and The Constitution. We say we value our freedoms and our democratic system of government.
Many go so far as to support our Nation in its attempt to spread these ideals around the globe. While we may not always agree on the methods, most say they DO support freedom for ALL!
Then why, WHY is it that some, who say they support these ideals and respect the documents I have mentioned, protest when we support people starting to exercise their rights to these freedoms?
Why do some seem to think it is better to support a dictator, who we can possibly influence but who denies these God Given rights to their citizens then it is to support the citizens who rise up to demand their freedom?
Why do some, from all walks (both major political parties, most major religions, most ethnicities and creeds) object when a company or group or even a person supports freedom?
Why are we looked at with such contempt if we stand with those seeking freedom? Why are we made to sound evil if we support the actions that bring freedom?
If we truly honestly valued our freedoms, if we truly and honestly valued our God Given rights, if we truly and honestly believe in our nations ideals … we would support those around the globe who only wish to experience these same freedoms for themselves!
The fact that there is a risk that another oppressive regime may gain some power, exists in every situation and can not be a reason to support a dictator. Because a dictator has been bent to our will or worked for our good in the past doesn't excuses the abuses made by that dictator.
I will finish with this … if we lived in the late 1700's, in the then colonies of Great Britain, how would you have reacted to the then rebels? Would you have vilified the newspapers who supported revolution? What about the bars where those wishing freedom meet to discuss freedom? Would you have despised those who went to Independence Hall? Those who risked their lives for OUR Freedoms?
If the answer is no you would not have objected then … then by all rights, you should support others who are doing the same thing, at the same risk, for their own nation! If you honestly are in support of freedoms, if you honestly believe that God wants all mankind to be free and has given us freewill, you should support anyone and everyone who honestly wishes for their freedom!
~Rev. J
Most everyone knows, well strike that, most everyone living in a free country should know, what has been happening in north Africa and across the 'Arab world'. For those who don't, one word sums it up: Revolution!
So far, there has been a sort of coup, peaceful protests and everything in between. Most notably, so far, is Tunisia (where this current revolutionary desire started) and Egypt.
I am somewhat confused though, by some people's comments and reaction to these circumstances. I have a difficult time understanding why some seem to favor supporting a dictator as opposed to supporting the will of the people.
Okay so now I've set up the article, but before I go further, I want you to read something. It's something EVERY AMERICAN SHOULD be familiar with. Still, I insist you read it, and not just gloss over it, but really think about what you read.
“W hen, in the course of human events, it becomes
necessary for one people to dissolve the political
bonds which have connected them with another,
and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate
and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature's
God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind
requires that they should declare the causes which impel them
to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are
created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with
certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty
and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights,
governments are instituted among men, deriving their just
powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any
form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is
the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute
new government, laying its foundation on such principles and
organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem
most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence,
indeed, will dictate that governments long established should
not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly
all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to
suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by
abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when
a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably
the same object evinces a design to reduce them under
absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw
off such government, and to provide new guards for their
future security. ”
I thought about highlighting or underlining some of the quotation there, but it's all extremely important. So it's all emphasized. What is it? The first two paragraphs to The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America. (I hope you already knew that!)
So did you understand it? Really, truly, honestly understand it? I hope so, but just in case … throughout the remainder of this article some will be not only quoted but paraphrased to make its meaning more understandable to you … in contemporary language.
When the Deceleration was penned, it was in response to an oppressive government. The then colonists had very few basic rights. Rights we believe are God given rights! (Regardless or race, creed or religion) In drafting the Deceleration, these men were committing high treason against the oppressors.
Yet they believed, as we should today, that those who have the ability to fix the oppressive system (in that case the British Monarchy) should fix the oppressive system. That even if it means installing a new government, or new system of government, it should be done!
This action should only be done when there is a long train of abuses. A history of having the rights we all deserve taken away from us. The rights to peaceably gather (and protest), the rights to be secure, to believe, think and say that which we want to. The right to travel freely, to live freely, to die freely.
Today, most all Americans profess a deep support of our forefathers. A support and respect for The Deceleration, The Bill of Rights and The Constitution. We say we value our freedoms and our democratic system of government.
Many go so far as to support our Nation in its attempt to spread these ideals around the globe. While we may not always agree on the methods, most say they DO support freedom for ALL!
Then why, WHY is it that some, who say they support these ideals and respect the documents I have mentioned, protest when we support people starting to exercise their rights to these freedoms?
Why do some seem to think it is better to support a dictator, who we can possibly influence but who denies these God Given rights to their citizens then it is to support the citizens who rise up to demand their freedom?
Why do some, from all walks (both major political parties, most major religions
Why are we looked at with such contempt if we stand with those seeking freedom? Why are we made to sound evil if we support the actions that bring freedom?
If we truly honestly valued our freedoms, if we truly and honestly valued our God Given rights, if we truly and honestly believe in our nations ideals … we would support those around the globe who only wish to experience these same freedoms for themselves!
The fact that there is a risk that another oppressive regime may gain some power, exists in every situation and can not be a reason to support a dictator. Because a dictator has been bent to our will or worked for our good in the past doesn't excuses the abuses made by that dictator.
I will finish with this … if we lived in the late 1700's, in the then colonies of Great Britain, how would you have reacted to the then rebels? Would you have vilified the newspapers who supported revolution? What about the bars where those wishing freedom meet to discuss freedom? Would you have despised those who went to Independence Hall? Those who risked their lives for OUR Freedoms?
If the answer is no you would not have objected then … then by all rights, you should support others who are doing the same thing, at the same risk, for their own nation! If you honestly are in support of freedoms, if you honestly believe that God wants all mankind to be free and has given us freewill, you should support anyone and everyone who honestly wishes for their freedom!
~Rev. J
Monday, January 17, 2011
Why so Skeptical?
Hey everyone~
So it's been a while since I posted I know, but now that the holiday's are past I can catch up and start posting again!
So here we go ... this is simply a question. One to hopefully make you think.
Why are we Christian's, a people of faith so skeptical? Don't get me wrong ... I DO believe in everything the Bible teaches. But for many, some or many of the precepts put forth in the Bible seem far fetched.
In fact, isn't faith in and of itself believing in something WITHOUT physical proof? Isn't it accepting something before seeing it?
So then why, after accepting Christ, after accepting so much on faith, do we turn around and view the world thru such a skeptical lens?
Why do we doubt someone's faith without ever having meet them? Why do we doubt someone's sincerity without having meet them? Why do we look at so much so pessimistically?
Is it really the world view Christ would want? Is it really Christ-like? Is it Biblical?
Let's all challenge ourselves NOT to be like 'doubting' Tomass ...let's instead take more things on good faith. We would probably be utterly surprised at how much better we'd feel ... and how many more people might listen to us!
~Rev.J
So it's been a while since I posted I know, but now that the holiday's are past I can catch up and start posting again!
So here we go ... this is simply a question. One to hopefully make you think.
Why are we Christian's, a people of faith so skeptical? Don't get me wrong ... I DO believe in everything the Bible teaches. But for many, some or many of the precepts put forth in the Bible seem far fetched.
In fact, isn't faith in and of itself believing in something WITHOUT physical proof? Isn't it accepting something before seeing it?
So then why, after accepting Christ, after accepting so much on faith, do we turn around and view the world thru such a skeptical lens?
Why do we doubt someone's faith without ever having meet them? Why do we doubt someone's sincerity without having meet them? Why do we look at so much so pessimistically?
Is it really the world view Christ would want? Is it really Christ-like? Is it Biblical?
Let's all challenge ourselves NOT to be like 'doubting' Tomass ...let's instead take more things on good faith. We would probably be utterly surprised at how much better we'd feel ... and how many more people might listen to us!
~Rev.J
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Patriots Day 2010
Hey All~
So this may seem odd...but I want to wish everyone the best Patriots day possible.
For those who are lost...Patriots day is the newly formed holiday now observed on Sept. 11. It was named, of course, in honor of all those patriots who died in the terrorist attacks on our Great Nation!
We had almost 3000 lives lost that day. But while the terrorists thought they could stamp out capitalism, the west and Christianity...they were wrong. These colors DON'T RUN!
They only strengthened our resolve. To root out extremism, to make the world a safe place, for people of all faiths, of all nationalities, all across the political spectrum.
President Bush was right in going after al-quidea. President Obama has stepped up the game deploying more troops and technological resources to the efforts. Our troops are committed to our safety and the honor of our Nation!
So on this Patriots Day 2010, 9 years after we were attacked...take a moment to Thank God for His Blessings upon our nation. To thank those who serve: the military, the public safety officials [law enforcement and firefighters], emergency responders [ambulance, emt's, communications operators] our leaders [from city counsels all the way to our President] ministers and other civic leaders.
May we never forget the lessons learned on 9/11/01!
May we ALWAYS HONOR those who fell and those who serve!
May Freedom forever reign in our Great Nation!
God Bless us all...God Keep us all!
~Rev. Jason Marin
So this may seem odd...but I want to wish everyone the best Patriots day possible.
For those who are lost...Patriots day is the newly formed holiday now observed on Sept. 11. It was named, of course, in honor of all those patriots who died in the terrorist attacks on our Great Nation!
We had almost 3000 lives lost that day. But while the terrorists thought they could stamp out capitalism, the west and Christianity...they were wrong. These colors DON'T RUN!
They only strengthened our resolve. To root out extremism, to make the world a safe place, for people of all faiths, of all nationalities, all across the political spectrum.
President Bush was right in going after al-quidea. President Obama has stepped up the game deploying more troops and technological resources to the efforts. Our troops are committed to our safety and the honor of our Nation!
So on this Patriots Day 2010, 9 years after we were attacked...take a moment to Thank God for His Blessings upon our nation. To thank those who serve: the military, the public safety officials [law enforcement and firefighters], emergency responders [ambulance, emt's, communications operators] our leaders [from city counsels all the way to our President
May we never forget the lessons learned on 9/11/01!
May we ALWAYS HONOR those who fell and those who serve!
May Freedom forever reign in our Great Nation!
God Bless us all...God Keep us all!
~Rev. Jason Marin
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
I will NOT be motivated by...
I'm a Christian, not motivated by fear...not motivated by politics....not motivated by publicity stunts or extremist actions.
As a Christian, as a minister, as an America...i whole heartily CONDEMN a public qo'ran burning.
It's not that i have any respect for the qo'ran, not even as a literary work. I feel disorganized and well, I'll just leave it at that. I am not a muslim, I do NOT support islam [but I do respect everyone's rights!]
The idea of a public 'qo'ran burning' is appalling...it makes me sick. It saddens me to my core. If someone disagrees with the teachings, burn it in private...so as not to start a fire storm.
Does this embody the teaching 'Love your neighbor as you Love yourself' ? [NO] Does this embody the teaching 'If at all possible, Live PEACEABLY among ALL men]? [NO] Is this showing the Love of Our Saviour? [NO] Is this teaching Forgiveness? [NO] Will this draw the lost to Christ? [Most likely NOT].
So then why do it? Why put our troops [in a muslim country] at risk? Why put our values at risk [American Values and Christian Values]? For publicity? Is that what Christ would do? 'Do to others as you would have them do to YOU' So do this and then cry foul when they do the same?
I would rather further the Gospel....I publicly condemn this stunt, as well as the fear mongers staging rallies that make a mockery of civil rights and shout absurdities about leaders. At the same time, I will defend their rights to ignore my rights. Sad huh? NO? Not sad of me...sad of them!
Get mad at me, cry foul, say I'm not in tune with God....say what you will as you have that right! But I have a right to stand up to those motivated by fear and extremism...I have a right to stand up and say....'For God so loved THE WORLD, the He GAVE His only Son, that who so ever believes in HIM would be saved'
Love will cast out all fear....Love is what saves the lost....NOT FEAR!
~Rev J
As a Christian, as a minister, as an America...i whole heartily CONDEMN a public qo'ran burning.
It's not that i have any respect for the qo'ran, not even as a literary work. I feel disorganized and well, I'll just leave it at that. I am not a muslim, I do NOT support islam [but I do respect everyone's rights!]
The idea of a public 'qo'ran burning' is appalling...it makes me sick. It saddens me to my core. If someone disagrees with the teachings, burn it in private...so as not to start a fire storm.
Does this embody the teaching 'Love your neighbor as you Love yourself' ? [NO] Does this embody the teaching 'If at all possible, Live PEACEABLY among ALL men]? [NO] Is this showing the Love of Our Saviour? [NO] Is this teaching Forgiveness? [NO] Will this draw the lost to Christ? [Most likely NOT].
So then why do it? Why put our troops [in a muslim country] at risk? Why put our values at risk [American Values and Christian Values]? For publicity? Is that what Christ would do? 'Do to others as you would have them do to YOU' So do this and then cry foul when they do the same?
I would rather further the Gospel....I publicly condemn this stunt, as well as the fear mongers staging rallies that make a mockery of civil rights and shout absurdities about leaders. At the same time, I will defend their rights to ignore my rights. Sad huh? NO? Not sad of me...sad of them!
Get mad at me, cry foul, say I'm not in tune with God....say what you will as you have that right! But I have a right to stand up to those motivated by fear and extremism...I have a right to stand up and say....'For God so loved THE WORLD, the He GAVE His only Son, that who so ever believes in HIM would be saved'
Love will cast out all fear....Love is what saves the lost....NOT FEAR!
~Rev J
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Faith Shouldn't be Political...
Okay so by now, most people who know me, most who read this, should know my stance on Faith and Politics. They don't mix [Not to say that a person's Faith doesn't impact their actions, I'm saying though I don't believe ANY civic leader should legislate from the pulpit or vice versa!]
Recently, well not just recently, some loud critics have been making an issue of President Obama's Christian Faith. They ignore the facts that he is on the record stating his belief in Christ Jesus as HIS PERSONAL SAVIOUR. He was a member of a church in Chicago for over 20 years. He seeks spiritual counsel from Christian Ministers. He receives Bible Devotionals EVERY morning. The list of supporting facts goes on and on. It's so long in fact, that, and this may ruffle some feathers, I won't even cite where to find the record, due to the fact that the amount of sources is that extensive. You don't believe me [or don't want to believe me] Google it...
Ok so now I ruffled some feathers! Now IF you read my other blog you will know my take on the Muslim center near ground zero [as Americans they have the 'right' but I don't think it's a wise choice] Sadly some loud critics claiming to speak for Christians [and certain political groups....more then one] are bashing the President and claiming he is a Muslim. Not only is that not true and said on very weak standing, but it's just NOT RIGHT.
Reading the news I found a nice article about some, well a good number, Christian leaders who have drafted [and signed, not all who signed drafted the letter] a letter declaring that Faith is not a political issue. That it shouldn't be. That the evidence says President Obama IS a Christian and furthermore the letter urges people to stop this circus.
Well, I am proud to say, that I SIGNED THE LETTER tonight. I'm not about to say you must sign it. I'm not going to try to guilt you in to signing it. I'm not going to do anything but challenge you to listen to reason and at the very least, research the issue yourself [don't take my words....and just because someone is loud doesn't mean that what they say is true] and read the letter...then make up your own mind [to sign it or not].
Please, don't challenge the basis of this post, I will tell you right now, I will NOT allow any comments [for or against this issue].I don't wish this to be used as a tool...even if it supports my position.
Remember, while we can judge...IF we choose to judge we MUST allow ourselves to be judged by the same exact criteria. Nowhere does it say though, that we are in any way qualified to judge as to whether or not someone is truly a Christian [i.e. honestly saved]. We can give our best guess, but the only salvation you can be sure of, is you own!
The link to the letter: www.eleisongroup.com/content/faith-not-political-issue
vaya con Dios!
~Rev. J
Recently, well not just recently, some loud critics have been making an issue of President Obama's Christian Faith. They ignore the facts that he is on the record stating his belief in Christ Jesus as HIS PERSONAL SAVIOUR. He was a member of a church in Chicago for over 20 years. He seeks spiritual counsel from Christian Ministers. He receives Bible Devotionals EVERY morning. The list of supporting facts goes on and on. It's so long in fact, that, and this may ruffle some feathers, I won't even cite where to find the record, due to the fact that the amount of sources is that extensive. You don't believe me [or don't want to believe me] Google it...
Ok so now I ruffled some feathers! Now IF you read my other blog you will know my take on the Muslim center near ground zero [as Americans they have the 'right' but I don't think it's a wise choice
Reading the news I found a nice article about some, well a good number, Christian leaders who have drafted [and signed, not all who signed drafted the letter] a letter declaring that Faith is not a political issue. That it shouldn't be. That the evidence says President Obama IS a Christian and furthermore the letter urges people to stop this circus.
Well, I am proud to say, that I SIGNED THE LETTER tonight. I'm not about to say you must sign it. I'm not going to try to guilt you in to signing it. I'm not going to do anything but challenge you to listen to reason and at the very least, research the issue yourself [don't take my words....and just because someone is loud doesn't mean that what they say is true] and read the letter...then make up your own mind [to sign it or not].
Please, don't challenge the basis of this post, I will tell you right now, I will NOT allow any comments [for or against this issue].I don't wish this to be used as a tool...even if it supports my position.
Remember, while we can judge...IF we choose to judge we MUST allow ourselves to be judged by the same exact criteria. Nowhere does it say though, that we are in any way qualified to judge as to whether or not someone is truly a Christian [i.e. honestly saved]. We can give our best guess, but the only salvation you can be sure of, is you own!
The link to the letter: www.eleisongroup.com/content/faith-not-political-issue
~Rev. J
Thursday, August 12, 2010
To shun or Not to shun...that IS a good question!
hey all~
ok so this may be a hot temp topic....so fair warning...and a kind admonishment, let's play nice lol [as i think we always seem to :P]
to shun or not to shun....first, a definition: to avoid [deliberately and persistently], to banish or expel from a community or group.
now who shuns people? many do...Christians and non-Christians alike. we can find shunning [sometimes by different 'names'] in Roman Catholicism [excommunication and/or withholding of communion], The Amish, Various Protestant denominations, Muslims [both in 'not associating with 'infedels [unbelievers] and put out [of the community] those who break the sha'ria [religious law]] even some tribal religions practice it in one way,shape or form.
for this article we will concentrate on the Christian practice...
a quick look at The Word of God, on this topic, can produce seemingly mixed results....we can see where it says we are to live in the world but are not of the world. we see where we are told to beware of adverse interactions with unbelievers [and those who bring bad influence] but we can also see Jesus Christ Himself associating with both unbelievers [many] and believers who have fallen astray [peter at times] and we learn so much about the Love of God!
now some may say that the early practice of shunning was put in to place to keep the early church in line. then some may say the practice morphed in to clerical control over the body of believers. yet others may contend that it a legalistic practice that should not be done at all...
me? well i didn't really have my mind made up until i came across [years ago] a passage tucked away in my favorite Book of the Bible [Job]
most of us know the story int he book of Job. An upright Godly man, who God allows satan to attack [side fact: there is NO evidence at the time of the initial attach that Job was being punished for some sin...quite to the contrary, it says Job was an 'upright' man. sometimes, bad things happen to good people]. Job had vast wealth [in livestock, property, prestige etc] and a large family. He lost EVERYTHING....he falls in to despair...his faith is challenged and his friendships are strained [side fact: it was the YOUNG friend who gave the good advice....with age CAN come wisdom....some wisdom though, comes straight from God. we should never dismiss someones words simply due to their age or experience ] in the end, Job learns a lesson, he has more restored to him then he lost...and we learn a LOT of valuable lessons! and here is one...tucked away towards the beginning of this great book.
read that closely a few times....now let's break it down...
to him who is afflicted: pretty self evident. anyone who is having hard times, regardless of the cause[s]
kindness should be shown by his friends: kindness -defined as- the act of being warmhearted, considerate, humane, sympathetic. to forgive! so who are our friends? those we associate with. those we like to be around. those we look to for help in hard times. [especially our local Christian's]
Even though: this fact, that kindness should be shown is NOT an IF/Then statement. it's NOT IF you do certain things THEN you get certain things. It is simply a fact....kindness should be shown by the friends of those who are afflicted!
forsakes the fear of the Almighty: essentially, one who abandons God. one who turns away. one who falls in to sin [not fearing]
so we see from this little gem, that when someone in the body of believers makes a mistake. s/he should be forgiven. should be encouraged. taught the errs of their way. not with an intimidating strong arm. not by forcing them out of the church. but by loving them!
now don't get me wrong. I'm not saying there should be no punishment for sin. I'm not sayin' that if a pastor embezzles funds from building project that s/he should keep being the pastor. I'm just saying, that they shouldn't be driven out...they shouldn't be shunned.
that's my take....what's yours?
vaya con Dios!
~j
p.s.
definitions were taken from the top definitions on a google search for the definition of the word. most came from the Princeton university website [i think that's what it was lol]
ok so this may be a hot temp topic....so fair warning...and a kind admonishment, let's play nice lol [as i think we always seem to :P]
to shun or not to shun....first, a definition: to avoid [deliberately and persistently], to banish or expel from a community or group.
now who shuns people? many do...Christians and non-Christians alike. we can find shunning [sometimes by different 'names'] in Roman Catholicism [excommunication and/or withholding of communion], The Amish, Various Protestant denominations, Muslims [both in 'not associating with 'infedels [unbelievers] and put out [of the community] those who break the sha'ria [religious law]] even some tribal religions practice it in one way,shape or form.
for this article we will concentrate on the Christian practice...
a quick look at The Word of God, on this topic, can produce seemingly mixed results....we can see where it says we are to live in the world but are not of the world. we see where we are told to beware of adverse interactions with unbelievers [and those who bring bad influence] but we can also see Jesus Christ Himself associating with both unbelievers [many] and believers who have fallen astray [peter at times] and we learn so much about the Love of God!
now some may say that the early practice of shunning was put in to place to keep the early church in line. then some may say the practice morphed in to clerical control over the body of believers. yet others may contend that it a legalistic practice that should not be done at all...
me? well i didn't really have my mind made up until i came across [years ago] a passage tucked away in my favorite Book of the Bible [Job]
most of us know the story int he book of Job. An upright Godly man, who God allows satan to attack [side fact: there is NO evidence at the time of the initial attach that Job was being punished for some sin...quite to the contrary, it says Job was an 'upright' man. sometimes, bad things happen to good people]. Job had vast wealth [in livestock, property, prestige etc] and a large family. He lost EVERYTHING....he falls in to despair...his faith is challenged and his friendships are strained [side fact: it was the YOUNG friend who gave the good advice....with age CAN come wisdom....some wisdom though, comes straight from God. we should never dismiss someones words simply due to their age
Job 6:14
To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown by his friends. Even though he forsakes the fear of the Almighty' [NKJV]
read that closely a few times....now let's break it down...
to him who is afflicted: pretty self evident. anyone who is having hard times, regardless of the cause[s]
kindness should be shown by his friends: kindness -defined as- the act of being warmhearted, considerate, humane, sympathetic. to forgive! so who are our friends? those we associate with. those we like to be around. those we look to for help in hard times. [especially our local Christian's]
Even though: this fact, that kindness should be shown is NOT an IF/Then statement. it's NOT IF you do certain things THEN you get certain things. It is simply a fact....kindness should be shown by the friends of those who are afflicted!
forsakes the fear of the Almighty: essentially, one who abandons God. one who turns away. one who falls in to sin [not fearing
so we see from this little gem, that when someone in the body of believers makes a mistake. s/he should be forgiven. should be encouraged. taught the errs of their way. not with an intimidating strong arm. not by forcing them out of the church. but by loving them!
now don't get me wrong. I'm not saying there should be no punishment for sin. I'm not sayin' that if a pastor embezzles funds from building project that s/he should keep being the pastor. I'm just saying, that they shouldn't be driven out...they shouldn't be shunned.
that's my take....what's yours?
vaya con Dios!
~j
p.s.
definitions were taken from the top definitions on a google search for the definition of the word. most came from the Princeton university website [i think that's what it was lol]
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