Another word for giving is "tithing". Boy that sure does ruffle some feathers. And a variety of reasons for why we are not responsible to tithe is given from "it's under the law" to "I've not been called to tithe".
Hebrews chapter 7 is very inclusive concerning the subject of tithing. First the word tithe means 10%. In Hebrews chapter 7:1-4, Abraham (which lived before the law was given in Exodus and Leviticus) gave tithes to Melchisedec (King of Salem) which was a picture of Jesus Christ (Vs. 3-4). Therefore, tithing cannot be just a principle understood under the law. It is a believers way to show God how thankful you are for what He has given to you!!! It does require attitude and actions---II Corinthians 9:6-15---a cheerful giver---with a smile of worship towards the One who has given us so much!!!
"Once you are sold out to Him, he expects us to "tithe" our monies and our time including our talents (another gift of the Lord)." Time is a precious commodity and a precious gift that God has given to us--what are we doing to show the Lord that we are thanful for the time on this earth that He has given to us?
"Only one life shall soon be passed; only what's done for Christ will last."
There are "givers" and there are "takers". Some would give you the shirt off their back, while others complain that the sacrificial giving of the shirt was not enough. They are takers. Takers are complainers when someone does something for them. But they don't want to be bothered about giving for anything concerning the church or anyone in distress. They are self centered and yet never satisfied. Which are you today, Christian?
Are you giving to the One who gave everythign up for you? (John 1:11) Or are you taking and/or not giving anything to hlep the cause of Christ--I want to challenge you, believer, to ask the Lord what He would have you to do---the choice is totally up to you. (Joshua 24:15)
----Pastor Fryer
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
How We Can Become Wise (I Corinthians Chapter 1)
Introduction: Paul writes this book from Rome and gives a very descriptive view of his world in Romans 1:18-32. This was the society in which he lived. When you have proud people, depending on human wisdom, adopting the lifestyle of the world you are going to have problems. This is the theme of the Book of Corinthians and Paul is addressing the many issues of the Corinthian church.
Paul opens his letter reminding them of their calling in Christ. He points out several important aspects of their calling.
1. Called to be Holy (vs. 1-9)
A. Set apart to God (vs. 1-3)
Church in the Greek means "a called out people". Each church has two addresses--a geographical address "at Corinth" and a spiritual address "in Christ Jesus". Eph. 1--"in" found 21x; vs 4-13 "Saints"--All who know Christ as saints because they have been set apart by God and for God.
B. Enriched by God's grace--vs 4-6 "Enriched" translates to "plutocrat" a very wealthy person. Each believer is gifted by God. II Cor 8:7; Gen 24:10, 27
C. Enriched Jesus to return --vs. 7 -- Christians expecting Christ's return will live beyond reproach. 1 John 2:28-3:3; Ps. 119:6; Phil 1:20; I Peter 4:16
D. Depending on God's faithfulness--vs. 8, 9 "confirm" a legal term which settles a transaction. Eph. 1:13, 14; Rom. 8:15; II Cor 6:18; Gal. 4,5
II. Called to Fellowship: vs 10-25
A. Is Christ divided? Vs. 10-13
There is one Saviour and one gospel. Gal 1:6-9; IITim 1:9, 10; I Tim 2:3-6
They were focusing on the messenger and not the message. I Cor 3:3-7. Only Christ should have the preeminence. Col. 1:18; John 3:31; Rom. 14:9; Heb 1:4; 3:3
B. Were you baptized in the name of Paul? Vs. 13-17
It cost something for each believer to be baptized in that day. Phil 3:10; I Peter 2:20; I Cor 4:10.
Paul was not minimizing baptism, he was putting it into its proper perspective.
C. Was Paul crucified for you? Vs. 18-25
Paul brings the believer into remembrance of the cross, the central theme of our lives. Gal. 6:17; Eph. 2:16; Col 1:10; 2:14
The key word in this portion of scripture is wisdom. It is found 8 times. Rom 11:33; Ps. 104:24
There are three attitudes to the cross:
1. They stumble at the cross--the Jews looked to the miracles and the cross is a picture of weakness.
They were looking for the Messiah. Acts 1:6
They could not put together Ps. 22 and Isaiah 53 with their idea of the Kingdom. Luke 24:13-55
The Gospel of Jesus is powerful. Rom. 1:16; I Cor 1:25
2. Some laugh at the cross. The Greeks looked at the cross as foolishness. They looked at the cross from man's point of view.
Vs. 19--Isaiah 29:14; Acts 17:30
Vs. 20--the wise (the expert); the scribe (the interpreter or writer) and the disputer (the philosopher or debater)
3. Some believed and experienced the power and wisdom of the cross. Vs 21. Those who have been called by God's grace, and have responded by faith realize Christ is God's power and God's Wisdom. II Thess. 2:13-14.
Operation Mobilization for Joplin's Tornado's Victims (Galatians 6:10)
The Scriptures are clear about having a set plan and goal (Prov. 29.:18)
The Scriptures are also clear about having a giving spirit. (Prov 28:26, 27; 19:17)
Step One (Matt. 18:19,20)
Prayer teams praying for the following in a random order plus anything you may consider to pray about:
Those who lost a loved one, homes, their jobs, their cars, those who have had to displace their families until they can rebuild, those who have no place to go while trying to rebuild their lives...
For the emergency responders: safety, wisdom, guidance, grace for their families while they are separated during this time...
For the Lord to get the glory through this whole ordeal by sould being saved and reclaim who have fallen away.
Step Two: For the unsaved (Matt. 5:16)
Going as a group to volunteer to help in whatever capacity in Joplin.
Step Three: For the saved (Gal. 6:10)
Helping sister churches in need, especially Southside Baptist Church. Making time to help them clear their lot and whatever we can do to be an encouragement to those who have lost their church building.
Step Four:
For this church to be a part of the realizing that we have a responsibility to help those in need. (Luke 10:30-37)
No act is too small when it comes to ministry. Take an offering to be used to help meet the needs.
Bring food and other necessities through a church wide offering. Toiletries, anything that a person needs to keep their dignity and sense of pride.
Mother Theresa said "we must be the change that we are wanting". This world cannot be changed without God's people stepping out of their comfort zones and looking for ways to minister. We must come out and go out to be accepted in. (Luke 17:7-10)
Step Five:
Be involved in personal witnessing through scripture distribution and co laboring with the members to help provide spiritual aid. (John 4:1-14)
Take A Moment To Be Thankful
Take A Moment And Be Thankful For These Rights
1. To worship where and when you want to. In other countries you are told who, when, and where to worship if you are allowed to worship or believe at all.
2. Free Speech--in some countries you are even told who to vote for! We are so blessed!
3. To Be What We Want To Be--others are told in some foreign countries, even what their occupations will be.
Now is the time to be all that God wants you to be--"Finally, my brethren, (and sisters), be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole (entire) armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles (tricks) of the devil." Ephesians 6:10-11
The Cost of Freedom
We constantly encourage our children to be proud of their heritage and rightly so, for our brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, fathers, mothers, grandparents fought so bravely to keep our country free from attacks, cold wars, and discrimination. But we forget the teaching of Jesus and what He died for that the choices our children make today regarding God's reality is met with the consequences of heaven or hell.
Our children learn about all our major heroes and have heroes of their own, but the real heroes should be those from the Bible, like David, Daniel, Paul, Jesus, Esther, Ruth, etc. We don't allow our children to know about Bible heroes and the freedom that these people knew, if we are allowing satan to keep us from serving the Lord. Thin about your contribution to your child's spiritual development and ask yourself---Is it enough for my child to be regarded a hero of the faith? Let me challenge you, parents, to read Hebrews 11--yes, the entire chapter--with your children this week, and learn a great deal about the "Hall of Faith". It will be a great Bible study for you and your family. Stay in God's Word!!! It will be one o fthe family traditions that your children will remember long after you are gone from this life.
--Pastor Fryer
Sunday, June 26, 2011
When Faith is Tested
FAITH: Forsaking All I Trust Him.
We say that we have faith, but rarely, when we re tested, do we exercise that faith that we are so readily to say that we have. The Bible describes faith as, "the substance of thigns hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1)
So in actuality, we are to exercise our faith as a muscle, growing from the act of faith, and showing our faith by our commitment to and trust (belief) in the Savior.
The next step in the ladder of Christian growth is the step of service. Many Christians have faith for salvation, but the true test comes when we actually have faith for daily provision, and in turn give our complete dedication to the One (Jesus) who supplies that need. I supposed the best example of tru faith is Abraham, who followed God. Abraham's obedience to go to a place that he had never seen before and follow the Lord basically, "to the ends of the earth", is a prime example of true faith---which many people would label as "blind faith". Blind people have to have a guide, so must we--who is your guide? Is it that check that comes regularly? Or do you pray over every bill and secure that help from the One who secured your eternal home?
Let's dissect the words for the acrostic of faith:
1. Forsaking: literally means leaving it and never thinking about it or wanting anything to do with it again.
2. All: Everything and Nothing....giving everything to Him and allowing nothing to stop you from giving it all to Him.
3. I : personal pronoun--literally means you and yourself.
4. Trust: Believe
5. Him: Jesus and all that He says to you about what you need to do and Himself and how He will do what He promises to do.
I want to challenge you this week, month, year, or however long it takesyou...Have Faith In God!!!
---Pastor Fryer
Why Was Jesus' Birth So Important?
1. Prophecy Foretold: Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:6--both verses meant that God's honor and promises were necessary to be kept to the world. In fact, the first mention of His provision of a Savior is in Genesis 3:15. Adam and Eve had just sinned. God knew that they would, and had a prepared plan for mankind.
2. The World Was Prepared for His Birth---Galatians 4:4-5--The Roman world had updated its roadways. All entrances to Jerusalem were guarded with sentries. Rome had made trade routes possible because of the Pax Romana (Roman Peace)--which was an update by Rome to create peace among all nations and in the process create trade. All roads were paved with stone, making travelling easier and more accessible. It was a time of great advancement to the known Roman world.
3. The Lineage of Jesus Prepared The Way --Matthew 1:1-17---42 generations had passed and now Jesus was born of Mary preparing the world for the greatest person ever born.
4. Jesus Would Be Announced To The World By A Living Relative --His cousin, John the Baptist (who was six months older than Jesus). Luke 1:26-38 gives the great detail of Jesus' relation to John. John 1:19-34 gives the purpose of John, to be the "voice of one crying in the wilderness, to prepare the way of the Lord."
All appropriations and conditions were formed in place for the coming of the Messiah--the Redeemer of the World. It is necessary that we remember that God does everything in His own time (Eccl. 3:11). There have been several comments made by leaders both religious and non religious why Jesus came when He did. The most ridiculous is that "it's really not important that He was born, the most important part of Jesus' life is that He died on the cross." CHRISTIAN, IT IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT JESUS WAS BORN!! IF HE HAD NOT BEEN BORN, HE COULD NOT HAVE DIED, AND YOU WOULD STILL BE DEAD IN YOUR SINS!!
How could we trust in a risen savior, if He had not been born at all?
So you see, it is important that Jesus' lineage, life, and all that can be read and found be researched. He is not just the baby in the manger. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!! Determine in your heart and life that you will not leave Jesus of your Christmas list. The Christian's commitment level should not get less, but greater this time of year. Let me challenge you to upgrade your commitment level this year and rejoice for the Lord has been born so that those who have Him in their heart may tell others, like the Shepherds did on the eventful night.
---Pastor Fryer
2. The World Was Prepared for His Birth---Galatians 4:4-5--The Roman world had updated its roadways. All entrances to Jerusalem were guarded with sentries. Rome had made trade routes possible because of the Pax Romana (Roman Peace)--which was an update by Rome to create peace among all nations and in the process create trade. All roads were paved with stone, making travelling easier and more accessible. It was a time of great advancement to the known Roman world.
3. The Lineage of Jesus Prepared The Way --Matthew 1:1-17---42 generations had passed and now Jesus was born of Mary preparing the world for the greatest person ever born.
4. Jesus Would Be Announced To The World By A Living Relative --His cousin, John the Baptist (who was six months older than Jesus). Luke 1:26-38 gives the great detail of Jesus' relation to John. John 1:19-34 gives the purpose of John, to be the "voice of one crying in the wilderness, to prepare the way of the Lord."
All appropriations and conditions were formed in place for the coming of the Messiah--the Redeemer of the World. It is necessary that we remember that God does everything in His own time (Eccl. 3:11). There have been several comments made by leaders both religious and non religious why Jesus came when He did. The most ridiculous is that "it's really not important that He was born, the most important part of Jesus' life is that He died on the cross." CHRISTIAN, IT IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT JESUS WAS BORN!! IF HE HAD NOT BEEN BORN, HE COULD NOT HAVE DIED, AND YOU WOULD STILL BE DEAD IN YOUR SINS!!
How could we trust in a risen savior, if He had not been born at all?
So you see, it is important that Jesus' lineage, life, and all that can be read and found be researched. He is not just the baby in the manger. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!! Determine in your heart and life that you will not leave Jesus of your Christmas list. The Christian's commitment level should not get less, but greater this time of year. Let me challenge you to upgrade your commitment level this year and rejoice for the Lord has been born so that those who have Him in their heart may tell others, like the Shepherds did on the eventful night.
---Pastor Fryer
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Bulletin Updates for April 24, 2011
Announcements
TODAY: Choir Presentation: "Hope's Alive", April 24, 2011, 10:30am, no evening service and no Sunday School.
Resurrection Sunday Offering
**May 1st--Bro. Terry Brown speaking, change offering for campers; ladies meeting with Mrs. Fryer on dress and attitude for camp.
***May 7th--Bake Sale at Walmart 9AM to 12 Noon--Parental Help and Involvement Necessary!
**May 8th--Mohter's Day; a gift for every mom in attendance on this Sunday!
***May 15th--Combined Junior and Senior Camp Canning Outing--Prental Help and Involvement Needed for driving, cooking, and clean up.
***May 22nd, 2011 High School Graduation--be sure to tell our three graduates congratulations! Kaylen Ruth, Gina Lee, and Ayla Pierce
***May 29th, 2011, Memorial Day Sunday: Honoring all vets. Be sure to invite a veteran to church for this Sunday!
JUNE 6-10---JUNIOR CAMP---campers remember your Bible and note pad for the Services at evening. Also remember to put your name on all your clothes and towels, even your washcloths and personal items. Campers need about $15-20 in spending money. Also need to bring a sack lunch to eat on Monday. We will be leaving between 9-9:30am on Monday, June 6th. If you're not here, you will be left!
ALSO--NO CELL PHONES--NO IPODS--NO ELECTRONICS INCLUDING HEAD SETS--GAMEBOYS--ETC
Anything that you want to use on the bus needs to be approved by Pastor Fryer, but will not be allowed off the bus during camp. The whole purpose of camp is to get back in touch with God and with nature. Enjoy the camp grounds including the swimming and the games. You will enjoy yourself more if you come with an attitude of obedience and compliance toward God and man. Remember that you are to open your heart and mind to the leading of the Lord and His reality.
---Pastor Fryer
Monday, April 18, 2011
Bulletin Updates for April 17, 2011
Choir Presentation
"Hope's Alive"
April 24th, 2011, 10:30am, no evening service and no Sunday School.
Resurrection Sunday Offering
**************
May 1st--Bro. Terry Brown speaking--change offering for campers
***************************************
May 7th--Bake Sale at Wal-Mart 9am-12 noon
***************************************
Radio Broadcast times: KKOW---860AM Tues and Thurs at 6:10 and 12:05pm, Saturdays at 7:05am. 103 FM-Sundays 8:00am to 8:30am. Pray for those who listen!!
Church website: http://www.independentbiblebaptistchurchks.org/. Facebook page: ibbcchurch. Blog: http://www.ibbcpittsburg.blogspot.com
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Christ's Triumph Means Your Transformation!!! (Part 2)
What Are The Steps To Transformation???
1. Salvation by grace, through faith--Ephesians 2:8-9; II Corinthians 6:2--If you have never asked Jesus to come into your heart, be your Savior, and forgive you of your sin, then today is the accepted time--NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION!!!
2. Make Him the Lord of your life---John 12:24; Mark 12:30-31; Proverbs 3:5-6
3. Consecrate your life to only allowing Him (Jesus) to make your decisions for living and giving to God and others. II Corinthians 6:14-16. Don't allow yourself to becomes friends with the world. (I John 2:15-17) Don't allow yourself to depend on the fellowship of the world to be your motivation.
4. Completely give up what you want in life and replace it with what He (Jesus) wants. Allow Jesus to be your example in true Christian living. Matthew 26:39; I Peter 2:21.
5. Be someone that Christ can rely on to complete His calling. (Matthew 28: 19-20) Be that bridge that Christ can use to His ultimate purpose and plan. (Ephesians 2:10_
6. Let Jesus sign the debt for you and keep the deed that only will be known in eternity how much you truly sacrificed for the Master. (Revelation 22:3-4, 9, 14). Let me challenge you, Christian, to let Jesus be in charge--BE TRANSFORMED!!!
--Pastor Fryer
1. Salvation by grace, through faith--Ephesians 2:8-9; II Corinthians 6:2--If you have never asked Jesus to come into your heart, be your Savior, and forgive you of your sin, then today is the accepted time--NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION!!!
2. Make Him the Lord of your life---John 12:24; Mark 12:30-31; Proverbs 3:5-6
3. Consecrate your life to only allowing Him (Jesus) to make your decisions for living and giving to God and others. II Corinthians 6:14-16. Don't allow yourself to becomes friends with the world. (I John 2:15-17) Don't allow yourself to depend on the fellowship of the world to be your motivation.
4. Completely give up what you want in life and replace it with what He (Jesus) wants. Allow Jesus to be your example in true Christian living. Matthew 26:39; I Peter 2:21.
5. Be someone that Christ can rely on to complete His calling. (Matthew 28: 19-20) Be that bridge that Christ can use to His ultimate purpose and plan. (Ephesians 2:10_
6. Let Jesus sign the debt for you and keep the deed that only will be known in eternity how much you truly sacrificed for the Master. (Revelation 22:3-4, 9, 14). Let me challenge you, Christian, to let Jesus be in charge--BE TRANSFORMED!!!
--Pastor Fryer
What Did Jesus Give Up For You???
1. Heaven's glory--golden streets, a crystal river of life, and all the glitter and wonderful things of heaven.
2. Being complete spiritually bodied--he took on human flesh which means that He bled and suffered just like we do.
3. Gave up a spiritual relationship with His Father, so that you can h ave a spiritual relationship with the Father.
4. Suffered completely so that you and I don't have to endure all the junk that He had to experience by being in a fleshly body.
5. Letting His kingdom be "invaded" by mortal beings--You and I. After we accept Christ as Savior. He allows us to be on the level of getting a heavenly home from the Father.
6. Letting us be called "children of God". What a concept!!! In eternity having a heavenly body designed to be free from all that we have to endure and encounter health-wise in this life.
7. Choosing to forgive a rotten sinner and allowing that person to be called a relation of God the Father.
---Pastor Fryer
2. Being complete spiritually bodied--he took on human flesh which means that He bled and suffered just like we do.
3. Gave up a spiritual relationship with His Father, so that you can h ave a spiritual relationship with the Father.
4. Suffered completely so that you and I don't have to endure all the junk that He had to experience by being in a fleshly body.
5. Letting His kingdom be "invaded" by mortal beings--You and I. After we accept Christ as Savior. He allows us to be on the level of getting a heavenly home from the Father.
6. Letting us be called "children of God". What a concept!!! In eternity having a heavenly body designed to be free from all that we have to endure and encounter health-wise in this life.
7. Choosing to forgive a rotten sinner and allowing that person to be called a relation of God the Father.
---Pastor Fryer
April 9, 2011 Bulletin
Announcements
Today: April 10th--canning for Junior campers
April 17th--canning for Senior campers--NEED PARENTS TO HELP--SEE PASTOR FOR DETAILS
***********************************
Choir Presentation
"Hope's Alive"
April 24th, 2011, 10:30am, no evening service and no Sunday School.
Resurrection Sunday Offering
***********************************
May 1st--Bro. Terry Brown speaking--change offering for campers
May 7th--Bake Sale at Wal-Mart 9am-12 noon
***********************************
Radio Broadcast times: KKOW---860AM Tues and Thurs at 6:10 and 12:05pm, Saturdays at 7:05am. 103 FM-Sundays 8:00am to 8:30am. Pray for those who listen!!
Church website: http://www.independentbiblebaptistchurchks.org/. Facebook page: ibbcchurch. Blog: http://www.ibbcpittsburg.blogspot.com/
Encourage others to click and join!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Who Do You Know?
Who do you know who needs Jesus?
Who do you who needs a friend?
Will you bring them to the Savior?
Will you bring them in?
--unknown
What is a Missionary?
1. A missionary is one who will endure hardness as a soldier of Jesus Christ and will not complain about it.
2. A missionary is one who will meet the needs of the lost so that the Master gets the credit--to the glory of the LORD!!!
3. A missionary is one who works for the night is coming when no man/woman can work. "I must work the works of him while it is day, the night cometh when no man/woman can work."
4. A missionary is one who works well with others and is a team player for the Mawster for the cause of Christ.
5. A missionary is one who shares the Love that Jesus has for others and is willing to give totally of him/herself to the cause of Jesus so that others can receive Him into their hearts and lives.
So, will you be "ONE WHO"? It's not a difficult task, but it is a task that requires submission and putting Spiritual Things in "an order of importance". We get excited about the things we like to do, but is it always what Jesus wants us to do? How can you be a missionary this week? Are you praying about meeting others who need that "word of encouragement"? Let me challenge you, Christian, to live with "Eternity's Values in View".
---Pastor Fryer
Who do you who needs a friend?
Will you bring them to the Savior?
Will you bring them in?
--unknown
What is a Missionary?
1. A missionary is one who will endure hardness as a soldier of Jesus Christ and will not complain about it.
2. A missionary is one who will meet the needs of the lost so that the Master gets the credit--to the glory of the LORD!!!
3. A missionary is one who works for the night is coming when no man/woman can work. "I must work the works of him while it is day, the night cometh when no man/woman can work."
4. A missionary is one who works well with others and is a team player for the Mawster for the cause of Christ.
5. A missionary is one who shares the Love that Jesus has for others and is willing to give totally of him/herself to the cause of Jesus so that others can receive Him into their hearts and lives.
So, will you be "ONE WHO"? It's not a difficult task, but it is a task that requires submission and putting Spiritual Things in "an order of importance". We get excited about the things we like to do, but is it always what Jesus wants us to do? How can you be a missionary this week? Are you praying about meeting others who need that "word of encouragement"? Let me challenge you, Christian, to live with "Eternity's Values in View".
---Pastor Fryer
The Whole Armor of God (part 3)
The third piece of armor is the Shield of Faith.
When teaching the armor of God, we teach that the Christian puts on the armor of one specific reason---to be protected from Satan and the tricks (wiles) that he dangles in front of the Christian. The unprotected Christian fall every time for the tricks that satan puts in front of them, but the protected Christian wins the battle because the Lord is first and holding the armor to PROTECT the child of God.
The shield of faith is a piece of armor that is acquired by the Christian exercising the muscle of Faith, or putting our trust in Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit to "guide us into all truth." It is important that we see the true faith that we can exercise in the Trinity to be our protectors.
But according to Proverbs 1:25-32, if we choose not to regard the protection against satan that God affords to us, we are on our own. And we will fall every time, because God is not invited into our lives to protect us from the wiles (tricks) of the devil. However, those who "hearkeneth unto me (God) shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.
So, the choice is yours Christian. You can either live your life from calamity to calamity and live in fear, or you can trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5-6), put your faith in Him, and put on the "whole armor of God", to be protected from the wiles (tricks) of the devil. The choice is yours and yours alone.
That's why some Christian live defeated lives, and some have total victory in their lives, and are constantly showered with God's blessings.
Choose whom you are going to trust......
---Pastor Fryer
When teaching the armor of God, we teach that the Christian puts on the armor of one specific reason---to be protected from Satan and the tricks (wiles) that he dangles in front of the Christian. The unprotected Christian fall every time for the tricks that satan puts in front of them, but the protected Christian wins the battle because the Lord is first and holding the armor to PROTECT the child of God.
The shield of faith is a piece of armor that is acquired by the Christian exercising the muscle of Faith, or putting our trust in Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit to "guide us into all truth." It is important that we see the true faith that we can exercise in the Trinity to be our protectors.
But according to Proverbs 1:25-32, if we choose not to regard the protection against satan that God affords to us, we are on our own. And we will fall every time, because God is not invited into our lives to protect us from the wiles (tricks) of the devil. However, those who "hearkeneth unto me (God) shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.
So, the choice is yours Christian. You can either live your life from calamity to calamity and live in fear, or you can trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5-6), put your faith in Him, and put on the "whole armor of God", to be protected from the wiles (tricks) of the devil. The choice is yours and yours alone.
That's why some Christian live defeated lives, and some have total victory in their lives, and are constantly showered with God's blessings.
Choose whom you are going to trust......
---Pastor Fryer
Friday, April 8, 2011
The Whole Armor of God (Continued)
First, are your feet carrying the gospel of peace (the good news) to others?
Second, do you yourself have the good news in your life so you can take it to others?
Third, do you have the peace of the good news in your life? Or, are you hard to get along with, rude in your approaches to others, or have you peace that only Jesus gives to others who put their faith and trust in Him in all circumstances?
See, God's peace is for those who truly desire to honor Him in all aspects of their lives. That's why some can lay their head on their pillows and sleap peacefully. The hymn writer said it best, "O the peace that Jesus gives, never dies, it always lives."
Maybe you don't have that peace, and have never had that peace. Philippians 4:16-17 states. "Be careful (worried or anxious) for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." It's all in how you want to live your life.
Either by worry, worry, worry, and frustration...or giving it all to the Father, God, and His Son, Jesus, and allowing Him to take the problem(s), and "casting all your care on Him" because "He careth for you."
What's it going to be? Do you trust God who never lies, or yourself, who is sinful and deginerate creature?
---Pastor Fryer
The Whole Armor of God
Ephesians 6:10-18
How Does the "Armor of God" apply to the military?
1. To be in the military, one has to sign-on. You have to personally sign-up to be considered a part of the military.
2. To be in the military, a man or woman must have the correct uniform. A uniform distinguishes each branch of the military. Without the uniform, one is not considered a part.
3. When one is in the military, one receives orders to direct you to where you are to serve. If you are not where you have been ordered to be, you are considered AWOL (Absent With Out Leave or Permission).
So, a Christian might ask, "How does this still apply?" Well, here's the answer: To be in God's army, you have to "sign on", which means that you have to have Jesus in your heart---John 14:6 points to Jesus as being the way to heaven. Then, after you ask the Lord Jesus into your heart and life, you are given the uniform of "Christian", which means that you are a little Jesus walking around and as you grow, you are instructed or discipled to learn more about serving the Master and being up-graded in His army. Since we all grow differently, the orders are directed differently and the assignments are different. Some are directed to teach, while others are directed into the choir, the nursery, and the ultimate orders given by the Master Drill Instructor is to be a missionary or a preacher of the glorious gospel of God. But, we are all given orders, it just matters what we do with them. Are you AWOL? Or are you obeying the Great Commission?
---Pastor Fryer
How Does the "Armor of God" apply to the military?
1. To be in the military, one has to sign-on. You have to personally sign-up to be considered a part of the military.
2. To be in the military, a man or woman must have the correct uniform. A uniform distinguishes each branch of the military. Without the uniform, one is not considered a part.
3. When one is in the military, one receives orders to direct you to where you are to serve. If you are not where you have been ordered to be, you are considered AWOL (Absent With Out Leave or Permission).
So, a Christian might ask, "How does this still apply?" Well, here's the answer: To be in God's army, you have to "sign on", which means that you have to have Jesus in your heart---John 14:6 points to Jesus as being the way to heaven. Then, after you ask the Lord Jesus into your heart and life, you are given the uniform of "Christian", which means that you are a little Jesus walking around and as you grow, you are instructed or discipled to learn more about serving the Master and being up-graded in His army. Since we all grow differently, the orders are directed differently and the assignments are different. Some are directed to teach, while others are directed into the choir, the nursery, and the ultimate orders given by the Master Drill Instructor is to be a missionary or a preacher of the glorious gospel of God. But, we are all given orders, it just matters what we do with them. Are you AWOL? Or are you obeying the Great Commission?
---Pastor Fryer
Who Pays The Price For Commitment?
1. Those who are willing to take the chance of living completely for the Lord Jesus.
2. Those who are not afraid of saying Jesus' name in a praise way, not taking His name in vain.
3. Those who cannot think of anything else but to glorify the Lord Jesus in all of their life's goals and ambitions.
4. Those who are totally surrendered and submitted to His bidding and His calling.
5. Those who have said "yes" to the Master and are willing to follow Him no matter where it may lead.
6. Those who can say "I did all of what I did for Jesus, not for anyone else, but for Him."
7. Those who want to hear Jesus say, "Well done thou good and faithful servant."
See, paying the price does not mean that at the drop of the hat you are offended. It does mean, however, that if you are offended, you give it to Jesus and keep on working, because the servant is not greater than his Lord. Jesus paid it all--all to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain. He (Jesus) washed it white as snow. Are you willing (remember that's a servant's attitude) to allow the hurt, hjabits, and hangups of the past to be placed under the blood and to be put on the Master?
That's what He wants you to do, but you have to be submitted to Him. Allow Him to take all of your offense and nail it to His cross. He is better equipped to deal with it--than you!!
Does "Dare to Be a Daniel" Really Work?
A young man named Elijah had always been bold about his faith in Jesus Christ, but sometimes sharing it with those who were skeptical was a challenge for him. In fact, sometimes he was just as hesitant as adults are. One day he was walking his dog, and God spoke to him to talk to a boy from the neighborhood who was sitting on a park bench. At first Elijah did not want to witness to this young man, because this guy had been known to beat people up for no reason. It was difficult decision.
So, Elijah kept on going. But God was very insistent about talking to the young person. Elijah gave into God that day, and the bully got saved! Elijah not only completed the Dare to be a Daniel program, but he had also decided that missionary work is his calling from God. "It frustrated me that so many people don't think God is real, where there are thousands of facts that prove He is. There are 66 books in the Bible and 40 authors and all their facts line up. That right there is a miracle," says Elijah.
Now I want to challenge you parents. What would you think if your young person felt like God wanted he or she to be a missionary? Would YOU resist and give them the "wet blanket"? How would you respond? See parents want their child to be a better Christian in the home, but they don't want that same child to be something for God on a foreign mission field. And I'm sure that keeping that child close to you is of the utmost importance. But think about this verse, "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." I Corinthians 6:20.
I'm reminded what a Negro preacher said to parents who had lost a small child, "Now He (God) didn't give you that baby, not by a hundred thousand miles; he just knew you needed some sunshine, and He (God) lent it to you for a while." See parents, your children are just on loan from God, He created them, and they are His anyway. I trust that you will not be selfish with your children and allow them to be whatever God wants them to be for His honor and glory.
----Pastor Fryer
So, Elijah kept on going. But God was very insistent about talking to the young person. Elijah gave into God that day, and the bully got saved! Elijah not only completed the Dare to be a Daniel program, but he had also decided that missionary work is his calling from God. "It frustrated me that so many people don't think God is real, where there are thousands of facts that prove He is. There are 66 books in the Bible and 40 authors and all their facts line up. That right there is a miracle," says Elijah.
Now I want to challenge you parents. What would you think if your young person felt like God wanted he or she to be a missionary? Would YOU resist and give them the "wet blanket"? How would you respond? See parents want their child to be a better Christian in the home, but they don't want that same child to be something for God on a foreign mission field. And I'm sure that keeping that child close to you is of the utmost importance. But think about this verse, "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." I Corinthians 6:20.
I'm reminded what a Negro preacher said to parents who had lost a small child, "Now He (God) didn't give you that baby, not by a hundred thousand miles; he just knew you needed some sunshine, and He (God) lent it to you for a while." See parents, your children are just on loan from God, He created them, and they are His anyway. I trust that you will not be selfish with your children and allow them to be whatever God wants them to be for His honor and glory.
----Pastor Fryer
Why Is A Girls' Home So Necessary?
1. Precious Cornerstone Girls Home receives girls from State Institutions, Homeless Shelters, and "good homes". These girls are destitute (without proper anything--including morals) and need proper examples in front of them to love them back into society.
2. The girls that they receive are taught to cook, clean, be "keepers at home", and are trained to be acceptable in society. Mrs. Woods is a great example of the Proverbs 31 woman and keeps 22 mouths fed on a daily basis.
3. They are given the gospel (good news) about Jesus, kept in a fundamental, Baptist church, and are home schooled using cirriculum that is designed to help them learn the basics of math, history, English, and science. They are given individual chores and responsibilities that help them learn to be givers, not takers.
****************
"And of some having compassion, making a difference." The Woods' family are "making a difference" in lives of girls and boys who need all the love and attention that this family can possibly give. My question is---will you be the ONE who will make it easy or difficult for them?
2. The girls that they receive are taught to cook, clean, be "keepers at home", and are trained to be acceptable in society. Mrs. Woods is a great example of the Proverbs 31 woman and keeps 22 mouths fed on a daily basis.
3. They are given the gospel (good news) about Jesus, kept in a fundamental, Baptist church, and are home schooled using cirriculum that is designed to help them learn the basics of math, history, English, and science. They are given individual chores and responsibilities that help them learn to be givers, not takers.
****************
"And of some having compassion, making a difference." The Woods' family are "making a difference" in lives of girls and boys who need all the love and attention that this family can possibly give. My question is---will you be the ONE who will make it easy or difficult for them?
How Are You Investing In Eternity?
We live in a society which is constantly encouraging us to buy insurance and somehow investing in the future so that others are not bogged down with the debt that we leave behind. But, the critical heart of the matter is that we are also called by God, "to sound the warning, to call sinners (the lost) to repentance, to point the way to peace with God and the hope that is in Christ." (Billy Graham)
Just think about what you already own--perhaps a car, a home, clothing, food, ultimate "toys" and a multitude of other gadgets and things to fit our social, and physical "needs". We let our children scream at us, "but, mom, dad, I have to have it." And we give things to ourselves, but what does God get? A local church attender in Michigan stated about giving, "It's my lifestyle. If I couldn't serve God this way, I would feel lost or incomplete." Another lady (remains nameless), stated that when she was a child her father placed his last $3.00 in the offering plate at church. It was the Great Depression. Her father stated, "God gave us that money, and I'm sure He will supply us with more." Phillipians 4:19 states, "But my God will supply your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
See, the Bible states, "need", not "needs" or "wants". Just one need at a time to require faith on our part--"Put Your Hand in the Hand" was a favorite Christian song in the '70's, and was criticized greatly, but are we doing it in a day and time when we worry over the smallest debt we've created? I want to encourage you Christian to ask God to "enlarge your coast" as you approach revival. Remember, every area must be given to God for individual revival. "We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus..." Are you allowing the Master Crafter to have His will and His way in your life? Surrender to Him, Christian, You'll never be sorry you did.
---Pastor Fryer
Just think about what you already own--perhaps a car, a home, clothing, food, ultimate "toys" and a multitude of other gadgets and things to fit our social, and physical "needs". We let our children scream at us, "but, mom, dad, I have to have it." And we give things to ourselves, but what does God get? A local church attender in Michigan stated about giving, "It's my lifestyle. If I couldn't serve God this way, I would feel lost or incomplete." Another lady (remains nameless), stated that when she was a child her father placed his last $3.00 in the offering plate at church. It was the Great Depression. Her father stated, "God gave us that money, and I'm sure He will supply us with more." Phillipians 4:19 states, "But my God will supply your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
See, the Bible states, "need", not "needs" or "wants". Just one need at a time to require faith on our part--"Put Your Hand in the Hand" was a favorite Christian song in the '70's, and was criticized greatly, but are we doing it in a day and time when we worry over the smallest debt we've created? I want to encourage you Christian to ask God to "enlarge your coast" as you approach revival. Remember, every area must be given to God for individual revival. "We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus..." Are you allowing the Master Crafter to have His will and His way in your life? Surrender to Him, Christian, You'll never be sorry you did.
---Pastor Fryer
Thursday, April 7, 2011
What Do You Consider Too Much For Jesus?
Or...what do you consider a Sacrifice?
1. Some consider a sacrifice being encouraged to come to Sunday School and Church on Sunday morning and Sunday evening. Others consider Wednesday Evening services too much. One hour of my time is surely enough.
2. Others consider giving of their time, talent, and treasure too much and are reluctant to give anything to Jesus.
3. Some consider some jobs to be "too low" for them and they only want to have teh "Upper Curst" jobs.
4. Some consider that their opinion is more important than others therefore they should get more recognition than others.
What is sacrifice? Defined is : Giving of something when don't necessarrily have it to give"..... So are we all sacrificing? Or are we just "giving"? Pastor Wise taught this: that there is the tithe--giving of 10 percent; there is the offering--giving extra to God's work; and there is the sacrifice---giving of time, talent, and treasure when you don't really have it to give--whether strength, money, or ability.
What do we as a church need to sacrifice for the cause of Christ? Have we been "stretched to the limit"? Read about those who gave all they could in Hebrews 11. The main reason they are in the Patriarchial Hall of Fame is because they were "stretched" and passed the test.
Christian, what can "stretch" you individually to be more of a sacrificial Christian?
What can I give HIM, poor as I am
If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb
If I were a wise man, I would do my part
What can I give HIM, I'll give HIM my heart.
Maybe you've already given Jesus your heart in salvation, but you've never truly given Him your all in being sactified, in service, in sacrifice. It is a growing process and none of us have "arrived", but you will not begin the process unless you are willing to give up somethings that are tearing you down and making you "bound" to the world and the worldly philosophy with which we are faced in every aspect of our earthly lives.
Let me encourage you to start just being here more and asking God what He wants from you.....
---Pastor Fryer
1. Some consider a sacrifice being encouraged to come to Sunday School and Church on Sunday morning and Sunday evening. Others consider Wednesday Evening services too much. One hour of my time is surely enough.
2. Others consider giving of their time, talent, and treasure too much and are reluctant to give anything to Jesus.
3. Some consider some jobs to be "too low" for them and they only want to have teh "Upper Curst" jobs.
4. Some consider that their opinion is more important than others therefore they should get more recognition than others.
What is sacrifice? Defined is : Giving of something when don't necessarrily have it to give"..... So are we all sacrificing? Or are we just "giving"? Pastor Wise taught this: that there is the tithe--giving of 10 percent; there is the offering--giving extra to God's work; and there is the sacrifice---giving of time, talent, and treasure when you don't really have it to give--whether strength, money, or ability.
What do we as a church need to sacrifice for the cause of Christ? Have we been "stretched to the limit"? Read about those who gave all they could in Hebrews 11. The main reason they are in the Patriarchial Hall of Fame is because they were "stretched" and passed the test.
Christian, what can "stretch" you individually to be more of a sacrificial Christian?
What can I give HIM, poor as I am
If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb
If I were a wise man, I would do my part
What can I give HIM, I'll give HIM my heart.
Maybe you've already given Jesus your heart in salvation, but you've never truly given Him your all in being sactified, in service, in sacrifice. It is a growing process and none of us have "arrived", but you will not begin the process unless you are willing to give up somethings that are tearing you down and making you "bound" to the world and the worldly philosophy with which we are faced in every aspect of our earthly lives.
Let me encourage you to start just being here more and asking God what He wants from you.....
---Pastor Fryer
What is a Soul Winner?
By definition: a soul-winner is one who directs others to the Lord Jesus and leads a person to following the Master in direct to His desires. Let us look for a brief moment at I Corinthians 3:6,7 and I Corinthians 4:2. Remember that we are "His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus..." (Eph. 2:10a)
We only are able to lead others to Jesus by the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, but we are not the Holy Spirit--we cannot make the transition occur. I Corinthians 3:6, 7 states that it's "God who gives the increase." So, in actuality, we cannot claim anything or give any one person the praise, but God (I Corinthians 3:7).
Example: If a mother brings her children with her and the said children go to the nursery, Beginner Church, and Junior Church--plus the mother walks the aisle and is lead to the Lord by an altar worker, not only does the altar worker have a part in the reward, but the preacher does, and the workers in al the avenues where her children were...see. It's a joint effort. It takes a lot of work to get people to see the gospel, because we are finite beings, but the Great Infinite God can illuminate anyone's eyes, mind, and heart to see the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. Some people take longer for the light to come on, not because our God is less great, but because man or woman, boy or girl, is so stubborn and may have had more of an influence by the world or worldliness.
It's not our objective to "judge" or be a detective to try to manipulate the change in a person: that's still God's domain. Our role in the transference is to just bring the meal (gospel) to the table (from the Bible); we are to be His gospel-bringers; bringers of the "good news"; the shepherds did it the night Jesus was born; the woman at the well did it in Samaria; Andrew brought Simon to Jesus; and countless missionaries, and Christian workers have brought the light of the glorious gospel to shine in the midst of a sin-cursed world---will you do this fantastic job too?
Remember you are commanded to--Matthew 28:19, 20. Are you obeying the Master? I challenge you today to be a gospel-bearer of great things to lost, confused, sinful people who live very complicated lives because they have never given their lives to Jesus.
---Pastor Fryer
We only are able to lead others to Jesus by the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, but we are not the Holy Spirit--we cannot make the transition occur. I Corinthians 3:6, 7 states that it's "God who gives the increase." So, in actuality, we cannot claim anything or give any one person the praise, but God (I Corinthians 3:7).
Example: If a mother brings her children with her and the said children go to the nursery, Beginner Church, and Junior Church--plus the mother walks the aisle and is lead to the Lord by an altar worker, not only does the altar worker have a part in the reward, but the preacher does, and the workers in al the avenues where her children were...see. It's a joint effort. It takes a lot of work to get people to see the gospel, because we are finite beings, but the Great Infinite God can illuminate anyone's eyes, mind, and heart to see the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. Some people take longer for the light to come on, not because our God is less great, but because man or woman, boy or girl, is so stubborn and may have had more of an influence by the world or worldliness.
It's not our objective to "judge" or be a detective to try to manipulate the change in a person: that's still God's domain. Our role in the transference is to just bring the meal (gospel) to the table (from the Bible); we are to be His gospel-bringers; bringers of the "good news"; the shepherds did it the night Jesus was born; the woman at the well did it in Samaria; Andrew brought Simon to Jesus; and countless missionaries, and Christian workers have brought the light of the glorious gospel to shine in the midst of a sin-cursed world---will you do this fantastic job too?
Remember you are commanded to--Matthew 28:19, 20. Are you obeying the Master? I challenge you today to be a gospel-bearer of great things to lost, confused, sinful people who live very complicated lives because they have never given their lives to Jesus.
---Pastor Fryer
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
We Are The Reason That He Gave His Life
When did Jesus come? Look at Galatians 4:4-5, "But when the fullness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." Why did Jesus come? Look at John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
See, unbeliever, you were created so that God and you could have a relationship together. That relationshipo was destroyed by Adam and Eve, but God chose to re-establish that relationship by giving His Son Jesus to be the Redeemer for you so that you could be placed under the adoption of God's family. II Corinthians 6:2--"...behold now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." Today is the day to get what you need to become God's child. See we are all God's creation, but we ARE NOT all God's children. Jesus is the only "...way, truth, and life." He is the only way to God, and to become part of God's family. He wants you, do you want Him? I mean, really want Jesus...life eternal, perfect life eternal, not just a guess or a maybe, but true, perfect life eternal. Something to look forward to for eternity!!!
It's in Jesus, my friend, not anywhere else---JUST JESUS!!
Choose Him today--don't turn away from HIM!!
----Pastor Fryer
See, unbeliever, you were created so that God and you could have a relationship together. That relationshipo was destroyed by Adam and Eve, but God chose to re-establish that relationship by giving His Son Jesus to be the Redeemer for you so that you could be placed under the adoption of God's family. II Corinthians 6:2--"...behold now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." Today is the day to get what you need to become God's child. See we are all God's creation, but we ARE NOT all God's children. Jesus is the only "...way, truth, and life." He is the only way to God, and to become part of God's family. He wants you, do you want Him? I mean, really want Jesus...life eternal, perfect life eternal, not just a guess or a maybe, but true, perfect life eternal. Something to look forward to for eternity!!!
It's in Jesus, my friend, not anywhere else---JUST JESUS!!
Choose Him today--don't turn away from HIM!!
----Pastor Fryer
Parents Regain Your Authority!
We live in a society that tells us and our children that we need to "give" more to them, while they hardly give a "Thank You" for any gesture that is given to them. So, how do I get my parenthood back from what I've lost?
1. Be firm and consistent in your rules and boundaries.
2. Be firm and consistent when rules and boundaries are broken.
3. Be firm and consistent to every child and the rules and boundaries don't change from one child to another. If it's wrong for one child, then it's wrong for all the children.
4. Don't allow your children to boss you around. You are still the adult, and while you need to be as just as you possibly can, you still need to be firm and consistent in your decisions. Don't let them "out maneuver" you. They get all their training from friends which are allowed to make decisions, television, and the public schools, that they need, and they will use you as their "guinea pig" to make sure that it works. Satan is still the father of all sin, and is a great mamipulator to the destructive factor in your home. (John 9:44)
5. Don't reward inappropriate behavior. Temper tantrums and bossiness are just as inappropriate as disobedience and are regarded by God as sinful as witchcraft (means user of drugs). (I Samuel 15:23) In this new year, let me encourage you to be consistent and firm in your walk with the Lord, being faithful to Him, and taking your stand with the One who died for you...Jesus.
Remember that He was firmly committed to the cross, regardless of the discouragement portrayed by the 11 disciples who fled, including Judas, who hanged himself. John, the Beloved disciple, stayed with Jesus all the way to the cross, and was rewarded to see the events of the future.
Jesus requires that His followers be the following: (1) Love Him with heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30-31). (2) I Cor :2--"Moreover it is required in stewards (servants), that a man (generic term meaning male or female) be found faithful." So the Master has called and expects us to follow. "Though no one join me, still I will follow---no turning back, no turning back." Will you follow, no matter the price or the cost--remember, it cost Jesus everything for people who deserved nothing. Let me challenge you, parents, Christians, to ask the Lord to help you be more consistent to Him, and being more consistent in the home and in your own personal life.
----Pastor Fryer
1. Be firm and consistent in your rules and boundaries.
2. Be firm and consistent when rules and boundaries are broken.
3. Be firm and consistent to every child and the rules and boundaries don't change from one child to another. If it's wrong for one child, then it's wrong for all the children.
4. Don't allow your children to boss you around. You are still the adult, and while you need to be as just as you possibly can, you still need to be firm and consistent in your decisions. Don't let them "out maneuver" you. They get all their training from friends which are allowed to make decisions, television, and the public schools, that they need, and they will use you as their "guinea pig" to make sure that it works. Satan is still the father of all sin, and is a great mamipulator to the destructive factor in your home. (John 9:44)
5. Don't reward inappropriate behavior. Temper tantrums and bossiness are just as inappropriate as disobedience and are regarded by God as sinful as witchcraft (means user of drugs). (I Samuel 15:23) In this new year, let me encourage you to be consistent and firm in your walk with the Lord, being faithful to Him, and taking your stand with the One who died for you...Jesus.
Remember that He was firmly committed to the cross, regardless of the discouragement portrayed by the 11 disciples who fled, including Judas, who hanged himself. John, the Beloved disciple, stayed with Jesus all the way to the cross, and was rewarded to see the events of the future.
Jesus requires that His followers be the following: (1) Love Him with heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30-31). (2) I Cor :2--"Moreover it is required in stewards (servants), that a man (generic term meaning male or female) be found faithful." So the Master has called and expects us to follow. "Though no one join me, still I will follow---no turning back, no turning back." Will you follow, no matter the price or the cost--remember, it cost Jesus everything for people who deserved nothing. Let me challenge you, parents, Christians, to ask the Lord to help you be more consistent to Him, and being more consistent in the home and in your own personal life.
----Pastor Fryer
What Is The Cost of Being A Committed Disciple?
1.. You must be born again. Having Jesus in your heart will be your first step to being a committed disciple of Jesus Christ. Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3:3, "ye must be born again."
2. You must be a baptized believer in Jesus. After salvation, being baptized is the main, first step of obedience.
3. You need to be a tithing member, reading your Bible on a daily basis, praying on a daily basis, witnessing for Jesus whenever the situation arises, and attending church (Sunday School and all church services). WHY? II Peter 3:18---a slacker of any of these cannot grow to full maturity in Jesus Christ. You cannot expect a child to grow without proper nourishment and so it is with the "child of God."
4. To be a committed disiple after all these things (1-3) are dealt with, there is one main ingredient...giving your entire life, body, family, marriage, etc to the complete ownership of Jesus Christ. Letting Him be the controller of what happens in your life. Going to the backseat of the car and letting Him have the wheel. Then and only then does your salvation, your church, your children, your family, and yes, even your very existence become His completely and you will notice in your life that you will experience less satanic dominance, satanic influence and less satanic resistance concerning your wanting to serve the Lord. Just tell satan, "You're not going to defeat me in this move of mine to serve Jesus." Do as Jesus did, "Get behind me, satan." Start quoting verses (that's why we encourage scripture memorization). Being faithful to church and to the things of Christ takes hard work, but thre is a great reward if we just follow Him. Let me challenge you, Christian, fight the good fight of faith---but don't try it on your own---include Jesus---let Him be your first line of defense against satan. Satan cannot stand against the Master--it is impossible for 'ole slippery foot to succeed against God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
----Pastor Fryer
2. You must be a baptized believer in Jesus. After salvation, being baptized is the main, first step of obedience.
3. You need to be a tithing member, reading your Bible on a daily basis, praying on a daily basis, witnessing for Jesus whenever the situation arises, and attending church (Sunday School and all church services). WHY? II Peter 3:18---a slacker of any of these cannot grow to full maturity in Jesus Christ. You cannot expect a child to grow without proper nourishment and so it is with the "child of God."
4. To be a committed disiple after all these things (1-3) are dealt with, there is one main ingredient...giving your entire life, body, family, marriage, etc to the complete ownership of Jesus Christ. Letting Him be the controller of what happens in your life. Going to the backseat of the car and letting Him have the wheel. Then and only then does your salvation, your church, your children, your family, and yes, even your very existence become His completely and you will notice in your life that you will experience less satanic dominance, satanic influence and less satanic resistance concerning your wanting to serve the Lord. Just tell satan, "You're not going to defeat me in this move of mine to serve Jesus." Do as Jesus did, "Get behind me, satan." Start quoting verses (that's why we encourage scripture memorization). Being faithful to church and to the things of Christ takes hard work, but thre is a great reward if we just follow Him. Let me challenge you, Christian, fight the good fight of faith---but don't try it on your own---include Jesus---let Him be your first line of defense against satan. Satan cannot stand against the Master--it is impossible for 'ole slippery foot to succeed against God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
----Pastor Fryer
Learning To Be Satisfied--Study on Ecclesiastes
Learning To Be Satisfied
Study on the Book of Ecclesiastes--Lesson 17
Ecclesiastes 8
Introduction: What about the wicked? King Solomon comes face to face with the problem of evil in the world. Does God know about it? Does he not have the power to stop it? Solomon solves the problem of evil by putting things in their proper perspective. 7:29 During the darkest days of WWII a preacher was asked why doesn't God stop the war? His reply was "He didn't start it". Solomon explores the problem of evil in the world by examining three key areas of life.
1. Authority (vs 1-9) Beginning with Nimrod (Gen. 10:8,9) and continuing down the centuries millions of good people have been oppressed by bad leaders. Even Solomon put his servants under much bondage. (I Kings 4:7-28; 12:1-14)
When a servant was commanded to do something evil, wisdom told him that there were 4 possible approaches: (A)Disobedience-vs 2. The servant must be true to his oath of allegiance to the king and to God. (Rom 13) The officer could obey the orders so as to avoid punishment. (vs 5) Disobedience could lead to death (Dan. 4; Rom. 13:3,4) We all have misery, so why add to it? (vs 7) (B) Desertion--vs 3. "Be not hasty to go out of his sight." (C) Defiance-vs.3 "stand not in an evil thing." Don't get involved in a plan to overthrow the kin, what it is saying. Acts 5:29 is applied when it comes to conscience and the law. How we express our disagreement with the authorities demands wisdom and grace. (D) Discernment vs 5-6. The wise servant understands that "time and judgement" must be considered in everything we do. David did not impulsively reveal himself to his brethren. (Gen. 43-45) Nehemiah waited, watched, and prayed (Neh 1,2). Daniel used wisdom in proceeding with his captors (Dan 1). The apostles used discernment when they were arrested (Acts 4,5). It is not easy to be a consistent Christian but we can ask for wisdom and receive it. (James 1:5, 3:17, 18)
2. Inequity (vs 10-14) Solomon summarizes his concerns in verse 14. There is more injustice in this world than we care to admit.
A Spanish proverb: "Laws, like spider webs, catch the fly and let the hawks go free."
F. Lee Bailey said, "In America an acquittal doesn't mean you're innocent, it means you beat the rap."
Verse 10--Solomon is reporting on a funeral he is observing, this person had attended the temple, received much praise from the people but did not live a godly life. Judgement was not placed on his life, yet (vs 11). God is a longsuffering God and may not judge sin immediately. II Peter 3:11,12. Solomon concludes that evil will be judged and the righteous will rewarded (vs 12, 13). The exercise of wisdom is very important to understand this. (Prov 9:10).
The Law of Faith--Proverbs 3: 1-6
Key Verse: vs 5-6
Introduction: In essence, it is a life of faith that is determined by the law of faith. (Heb. 2:4) (II Cor 5:7) (Romans 14:23) Faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1 as "..the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
To Martin Luther, faith was so much a matter of believing in propositions as of trusting in a Person. Man was created to trust God only and wholly. Anything less is faithlessness and godlessness. "Faith is a lively confidence in goodness of God. Faith demands of us:
1. The Decision of Trust (vs 5)
A. Human impotence "feebleness" is the secret of divine competence "ability". (II Cor 12:10)
Quote: J. Edgar Hoover once wrote: "When one leans on his own understanding, lives by his own strength, boasts of his own
accomplishments, and claims he is his own master, the result is untold suffering. Even through his position is maintained and
his material wealth increases, success quickly turns to failure when God is forgotten. There is no peace of mind, no personal
satisfaction, no experience of true inner joy. To trust in the Lord with all the heart is a mark of strength! It is the only path to
true fulfillment."
B. This decision of trust calls for a capitulation, "surrender', to Christ.
1. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart." (vs 5)
2. In Hebrew psychology, the heart is not so much the seat of emotions as that of the intellect and will. Thus the invitation is to
personally trust -- surrender your will to Christ. (Total allegiance) (Yield One's All)
Illus: C.T. Studd understood this: He said: "If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice is too great for me to
make for Him."
C. This decision of trust calls for a renunciation ("rejection") of self.
1. "...lean not unto thine own understanding." (vs 5)
2. Either we renounce self, or we captiulate ("succum") to self and renounce Christ. *So many people want to grasp the Savior
with one hand while they hold the world with the other; it cannot be done. We must follow the Savior without reservation.
Illus: A lady visiting Niagra Falls was crossing a little bridge over to one of the falls. She saw the swirling waters beneath her
and she began to panic. She frose! The guide said, "Put your hand into my hand!" She did and was guided to safety.
Christ is our Guide!
II. The Devotion of Trust (vs 6)
A. "In all thy ways acknowledge Him..." (vs 6)
1. Praciticing the presence of Christ moment by moment involves more than learning of Christ in the Word and speaking to Christ
in prayer.
*It means unbroken fellowship with the Lord through a life of unqualified dependence and obedience.
2. Every moment Jesus should be thinking through your mind, looking through your eyes, speaking through your lips, working
through your hands, walking through your feet, and loving through your heart. (Phil. 1:21) "For me, living is Christ."
Illus: For many living is money, fame, sports, or sex. You can tell what dominates ones life after five minutes of conversation.
B. We must daily serve the pleasure of Christ. (vs6) "In all thy ways acknowledge him..."
1. Christ while on earth consuming passion was to please His Father. (John 4:34; 8: 29) As a result God could say of His Son:
This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matt 3:17; 17:5)
2. Our supreme delight should be to please the Lord Jesus in everything.
III. The Direction of Trust (vs 6)
A. "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (vs 6)
1. God seldom guides a soul that follows afar off. He will not reveal His way to the ear that will not listen. (His will is revealed
through His Word.)
2. God's power will remove obstructions in ones life. Word "direct" is used in Isaiah 40:3, which means "to clear a highway in the
desert". Thank God we don't have to grope in darkness. (Ps 23:3) (John 8:12)
Quote: A great writer of the past said: "When once the decision is made, let us never look back. Let us never dare to supposed
that God would fail them that trust Him or permit them to make a mistake. If difficulties arise, they do not prove us to be
wrong, and probably they are less by this path than they are by any other. Go forward! The way has been prepared, the
mountains are a way; the rivers have fords, the lions are chained, the desert shall be a highway to the land that flows with
milk and honey."
3. See John 10:4
B. God's promise to reveal instructions to us. (vs 6) "He shall direct thy paths"
1. Word of God is God's road map for us. It is our Guiding Light.
2. We are lead by the Spirit of God according to the Word of God. God's promise to lead His own will never fail. We have the
guidance of grace of Heaven. Make the journey with Jesus. Start today!
Introduction: In essence, it is a life of faith that is determined by the law of faith. (Heb. 2:4) (II Cor 5:7) (Romans 14:23) Faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1 as "..the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
To Martin Luther, faith was so much a matter of believing in propositions as of trusting in a Person. Man was created to trust God only and wholly. Anything less is faithlessness and godlessness. "Faith is a lively confidence in goodness of God. Faith demands of us:
1. The Decision of Trust (vs 5)
A. Human impotence "feebleness" is the secret of divine competence "ability". (II Cor 12:10)
Quote: J. Edgar Hoover once wrote: "When one leans on his own understanding, lives by his own strength, boasts of his own
accomplishments, and claims he is his own master, the result is untold suffering. Even through his position is maintained and
his material wealth increases, success quickly turns to failure when God is forgotten. There is no peace of mind, no personal
satisfaction, no experience of true inner joy. To trust in the Lord with all the heart is a mark of strength! It is the only path to
true fulfillment."
B. This decision of trust calls for a capitulation, "surrender', to Christ.
1. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart." (vs 5)
2. In Hebrew psychology, the heart is not so much the seat of emotions as that of the intellect and will. Thus the invitation is to
personally trust -- surrender your will to Christ. (Total allegiance) (Yield One's All)
Illus: C.T. Studd understood this: He said: "If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice is too great for me to
make for Him."
C. This decision of trust calls for a renunciation ("rejection") of self.
1. "...lean not unto thine own understanding." (vs 5)
2. Either we renounce self, or we captiulate ("succum") to self and renounce Christ. *So many people want to grasp the Savior
with one hand while they hold the world with the other; it cannot be done. We must follow the Savior without reservation.
Illus: A lady visiting Niagra Falls was crossing a little bridge over to one of the falls. She saw the swirling waters beneath her
and she began to panic. She frose! The guide said, "Put your hand into my hand!" She did and was guided to safety.
Christ is our Guide!
II. The Devotion of Trust (vs 6)
A. "In all thy ways acknowledge Him..." (vs 6)
1. Praciticing the presence of Christ moment by moment involves more than learning of Christ in the Word and speaking to Christ
in prayer.
*It means unbroken fellowship with the Lord through a life of unqualified dependence and obedience.
2. Every moment Jesus should be thinking through your mind, looking through your eyes, speaking through your lips, working
through your hands, walking through your feet, and loving through your heart. (Phil. 1:21) "For me, living is Christ."
Illus: For many living is money, fame, sports, or sex. You can tell what dominates ones life after five minutes of conversation.
B. We must daily serve the pleasure of Christ. (vs6) "In all thy ways acknowledge him..."
1. Christ while on earth consuming passion was to please His Father. (John 4:34; 8: 29) As a result God could say of His Son:
This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matt 3:17; 17:5)
2. Our supreme delight should be to please the Lord Jesus in everything.
III. The Direction of Trust (vs 6)
A. "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (vs 6)
1. God seldom guides a soul that follows afar off. He will not reveal His way to the ear that will not listen. (His will is revealed
through His Word.)
2. God's power will remove obstructions in ones life. Word "direct" is used in Isaiah 40:3, which means "to clear a highway in the
desert". Thank God we don't have to grope in darkness. (Ps 23:3) (John 8:12)
Quote: A great writer of the past said: "When once the decision is made, let us never look back. Let us never dare to supposed
that God would fail them that trust Him or permit them to make a mistake. If difficulties arise, they do not prove us to be
wrong, and probably they are less by this path than they are by any other. Go forward! The way has been prepared, the
mountains are a way; the rivers have fords, the lions are chained, the desert shall be a highway to the land that flows with
milk and honey."
3. See John 10:4
B. God's promise to reveal instructions to us. (vs 6) "He shall direct thy paths"
1. Word of God is God's road map for us. It is our Guiding Light.
2. We are lead by the Spirit of God according to the Word of God. God's promise to lead His own will never fail. We have the
guidance of grace of Heaven. Make the journey with Jesus. Start today!
Monday, March 21, 2011
It's Time To Be Faithful--First Timothy Chapter 2
Service or Circus
Let all things be done decently and in order is a basic principle for the conduct of the ministry of the church. Paul is exhorting young Timothy because the members of the church in Ephesus were disobeying God's Word. Paul counteracts this tendency, by reminding them of their spiritual responsibilities.
1. The Men--Praying vs 1-8
A. The priority of prayer--vs 1
Our hearts must be right with God and with each other. Matt. 6:5
When a local church ceases to depend on prayer, God ceases to bless its ministry.
B. The variety of prayer -- vs 1
Supplication carries the idea of offering a request for a felt need. Prayers emphasizes the sacredness of prayer. Prayer is an act
of worship, not just an expression of our wants and needs.
Intercessions -- petitions--I Tim. 4:5 -- its basic meaning is to draw near to a person and converse confidently with them.
Giving of thanks--we need to not only give thanks for answers to prayer, but for who God is and He does for us in His grace.
Ps. 100
Prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. Phil. 4:6 Daniel practiced this kind of praying. Dan. 6:10-11
C. The objects of prayer -vs- 1-2 "all men"
There are no people outside the influence of believing prayer.
We should pray for the unsaved, people nearus and far away, for enemies as well as friends. For those in authority. Nero was
emporer. It is for our own good. Vs 2.
Quiet refers to circumstances around us and peaceable refers to a calm attitude within us.
D. The reasons for prayer vs 3-4
The word good is a key word in Paul's pastoral epistles--I Tim. 1:8, 18; 2:3; 3:1; 7, 13; 4:4, 6; 5:4, 10, 25; 6:12, 13, 18, 19;
II Tim. 1:4; 2:3; 4:7; Titus 2:7, 14; 3:8, 14
It's Time To Be Faithful--First Timothy 1:18-20
I. Preach Sound Doctrine 1:1-11
II. Proclaim the Gospel vs 12-17
III. Defend the Faith vs 18-20
Paul uses military language "Charge" which means "an urgent command handed down from a superior officer" I Tim. 1:3
The soldiers task is II Tim. 2:4 and not please himself.
Vs 19--He changes illustrations from army to navy. "Hold faith and a good conscience" which keeps us on track.
The conscience can be defined as "the inner voice which warns us that somebody may be looking".
Professing Chrsitians who "make shipwreck" of their faith do so by sinning against their consciences.
Bad Doctrine starts with bad conduct and usually with secret sin.
"Delivered unto Satan" vs 20 - implies an apostolic discipline. I Cor. 5:5 and disassociation from the local church. The verb "learn" vs 20 means to learn by discipline. When a Christian refuses to repent, the local fellowship should exercise discipline. Matt. 18 excluding them from the protective fellowship of the Saints which maeks them vulnerable to the attacks of Satan. Job 1-2; Luke 22:31-34. Churches should be balanced exposing Satan. John 8:44, I Tim. 4:1; and preaching sound doctrine. 1:10.
II. Proclaim the Gospel vs 12-17
III. Defend the Faith vs 18-20
Paul uses military language "Charge" which means "an urgent command handed down from a superior officer" I Tim. 1:3
The soldiers task is II Tim. 2:4 and not please himself.
Vs 19--He changes illustrations from army to navy. "Hold faith and a good conscience" which keeps us on track.
The conscience can be defined as "the inner voice which warns us that somebody may be looking".
Professing Chrsitians who "make shipwreck" of their faith do so by sinning against their consciences.
Bad Doctrine starts with bad conduct and usually with secret sin.
"Delivered unto Satan" vs 20 - implies an apostolic discipline. I Cor. 5:5 and disassociation from the local church. The verb "learn" vs 20 means to learn by discipline. When a Christian refuses to repent, the local fellowship should exercise discipline. Matt. 18 excluding them from the protective fellowship of the Saints which maeks them vulnerable to the attacks of Satan. Job 1-2; Luke 22:31-34. Churches should be balanced exposing Satan. John 8:44, I Tim. 4:1; and preaching sound doctrine. 1:10.
How To Have A Challenging New Year
How to have a challenging New Year....
1. Challenge yourself to read God's Word--even if you have to read one verse, and think about that verse all day, then you have accomplished more for Jesus.
2. Challenge yourself to be at Sunday School this year. If you were to compare learning about God, and Jesus, to making a sandwich, then the 11am service would be the top part of the sandwich, and the 6pm service would be the bottom part of the sandwich, but the meat of the sandwich is the 10am part of the day. In Sunday School you are going to build a foundation for yourself that will knock out all the jibberish of the world.
3. Challenge yourself ot pray for as many of the church family as you can remember. As you remember your church family, write them down on a piece of paper. You will find that your problems cease as you pray for others.
4. Challenge yourself to have one new acquainteance per month. Then challenge yourself to invite them to church.
5. Challenge yourself to give more to Jesus this year than last, even if it's only one dollar every month. Push yourself to the limit and trust, try, and prove the Lord to see what kind of blessings that He will allow you to have. You can never out-give God---remember, He owns the cattle on a thousand hills--I know that He will care for you!!!
6. Challenge yourself to never quit on God. The temptation may be great, but He will never leave you or forsake you--because when you ask Him into your heart, you are bought with a price. All these challenges will help you to glorify God in your body and serve Him ultimately with your body, soul, and spirit. Remember, He gave all for you, what can you give to Him?
--Pastor Jim Fryer
1. Challenge yourself to read God's Word--even if you have to read one verse, and think about that verse all day, then you have accomplished more for Jesus.
2. Challenge yourself to be at Sunday School this year. If you were to compare learning about God, and Jesus, to making a sandwich, then the 11am service would be the top part of the sandwich, and the 6pm service would be the bottom part of the sandwich, but the meat of the sandwich is the 10am part of the day. In Sunday School you are going to build a foundation for yourself that will knock out all the jibberish of the world.
3. Challenge yourself ot pray for as many of the church family as you can remember. As you remember your church family, write them down on a piece of paper. You will find that your problems cease as you pray for others.
4. Challenge yourself to have one new acquainteance per month. Then challenge yourself to invite them to church.
5. Challenge yourself to give more to Jesus this year than last, even if it's only one dollar every month. Push yourself to the limit and trust, try, and prove the Lord to see what kind of blessings that He will allow you to have. You can never out-give God---remember, He owns the cattle on a thousand hills--I know that He will care for you!!!
6. Challenge yourself to never quit on God. The temptation may be great, but He will never leave you or forsake you--because when you ask Him into your heart, you are bought with a price. All these challenges will help you to glorify God in your body and serve Him ultimately with your body, soul, and spirit. Remember, He gave all for you, what can you give to Him?
--Pastor Jim Fryer
Thursday, March 17, 2011
What is the Cost of Being a Committed Christian?
What is the Cost of Being a Committed Christian?
1. You must be born-again. Having Jesus in your heart will be your
first step to being a committed disciple of Jesus Christ. Jesus told
Nicodemus in John 3:3, "ye must be born again."
2. You must be a baptized believer in Jesus. After salvation, being
baptized is the main, first step of obedience.
3. You need to be a tithing member, reading your Bible on a daily
basis, praying on a daily basis, witnessing for Jesus whenever the
situation arises, and attending church (Sunday School and all church
services.) WHY? II Peter 3:18---a slacker of any of these cannot grow
to full maturity in Jesus Christ. You cannot expect a child to grow
with out proper nourishment and so it is with the "child of God".
4. To be a committed disciple after all these things (1-3) are dealt
with, there is one main ingredient---giving your entire life, body,
family, marriage, etc to the complete ownership of Jesus Christ.
Letting Him be the controller of what happens in your life. Going to
the back seat of the car and letting Him have the wheel. Then and
only then does your salvation, your church, your children, your
family, and yes, even your very existence become His completely and
you will notice in your life that you will experience less satanic
dominance, satanic influence, and less satanic resistance concerning
your wanting to serve the Lord. Just tell satan, "You're not going to
defeat me in this move of mine to serve Jesus." Do as Jesus did, "Get
behind me, satan". Start quoting verses (that's why we encourage
scripture memorization). Being faithful to church and to the things of
Christ takes hard work, but there is great reward if we just follow
Him. Let me challenge you, Christian, fight the good fight of
faith---but don't try it on your own---include Jesus---let Him be your
first line of defense against satan. Satan cannot stand against the
Master--it is impossible for 'ole slippery foot to succeed against God,
Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
--Pastor Fryer
1. You must be born-again. Having Jesus in your heart will be your
first step to being a committed disciple of Jesus Christ. Jesus told
Nicodemus in John 3:3, "ye must be born again."
2. You must be a baptized believer in Jesus. After salvation, being
baptized is the main, first step of obedience.
3. You need to be a tithing member, reading your Bible on a daily
basis, praying on a daily basis, witnessing for Jesus whenever the
situation arises, and attending church (Sunday School and all church
services.) WHY? II Peter 3:18---a slacker of any of these cannot grow
to full maturity in Jesus Christ. You cannot expect a child to grow
with out proper nourishment and so it is with the "child of God".
4. To be a committed disciple after all these things (1-3) are dealt
with, there is one main ingredient---giving your entire life, body,
family, marriage, etc to the complete ownership of Jesus Christ.
Letting Him be the controller of what happens in your life. Going to
the back seat of the car and letting Him have the wheel. Then and
only then does your salvation, your church, your children, your
family, and yes, even your very existence become His completely and
you will notice in your life that you will experience less satanic
dominance, satanic influence, and less satanic resistance concerning
your wanting to serve the Lord. Just tell satan, "You're not going to
defeat me in this move of mine to serve Jesus." Do as Jesus did, "Get
behind me, satan". Start quoting verses (that's why we encourage
scripture memorization). Being faithful to church and to the things of
Christ takes hard work, but there is great reward if we just follow
Him. Let me challenge you, Christian, fight the good fight of
faith---but don't try it on your own---include Jesus---let Him be your
first line of defense against satan. Satan cannot stand against the
Master--it is impossible for 'ole slippery foot to succeed against God,
Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
--Pastor Fryer
How Does The Church Survive
How Does The
Church Survive?
Some have said that they like the Pastor. Or others say, I like the music and
fellowship. But the main thrust of the church should be their missions
program--reaching others at all costs.
How much do you know about the missionaries that the church supports?
How well do you know about their living conditions? Their ministry? Their
children? The missionary's wife? Their health? Their battles?
Some may say, "Well, they really don't have it that bad where they are, they
are in the big cities, or they are in the capital."
Have you ever thought about these things:
1) A missionary cannot get a job in a foreign country--they must get a visa or
pass to live in that country, and many times, they have to pay that country for
their visa.
2) They cannot receive health care from the foreign country, so they must
have health insurance from the United States. And, we all know how
expensive this is.
3) Hospital care in many countries is still 3rd world conditions, which means
there are very few nurses, and even fewer doctors. Hospitals are dirty and
contaminated. Death and STD's are very common.
4) In some countries a missionary cannot even carry a cell phone to that
country, because the taxes on carrying items into the country is so expensive,
that it is cheaper to obtain those items there. Or the country does not want
anything from America in their country, so you have to buy everything there
anyway.
We are so spoiled here. We have a "gotta have it now" mentality about
everything and so we are very demanding and selfish about our needs and
wants. Jesus gave everything and yet we as Christians are so reluctant to
"give up anything" because our "wants" may suffer.
A missionary said to a congregation, "I will descend and dig, but you must
hold the ropes." Are you doing everything you can for missions?
Our Savior did---follow in His steps----He Gave Everything....
Will you?
Pastor Jim Fryer
Church Survive?
Some have said that they like the Pastor. Or others say, I like the music and
fellowship. But the main thrust of the church should be their missions
program--reaching others at all costs.
How much do you know about the missionaries that the church supports?
How well do you know about their living conditions? Their ministry? Their
children? The missionary's wife? Their health? Their battles?
Some may say, "Well, they really don't have it that bad where they are, they
are in the big cities, or they are in the capital."
Have you ever thought about these things:
1) A missionary cannot get a job in a foreign country--they must get a visa or
pass to live in that country, and many times, they have to pay that country for
their visa.
2) They cannot receive health care from the foreign country, so they must
have health insurance from the United States. And, we all know how
expensive this is.
3) Hospital care in many countries is still 3rd world conditions, which means
there are very few nurses, and even fewer doctors. Hospitals are dirty and
contaminated. Death and STD's are very common.
4) In some countries a missionary cannot even carry a cell phone to that
country, because the taxes on carrying items into the country is so expensive,
that it is cheaper to obtain those items there. Or the country does not want
anything from America in their country, so you have to buy everything there
anyway.
We are so spoiled here. We have a "gotta have it now" mentality about
everything and so we are very demanding and selfish about our needs and
wants. Jesus gave everything and yet we as Christians are so reluctant to
"give up anything" because our "wants" may suffer.
A missionary said to a congregation, "I will descend and dig, but you must
hold the ropes." Are you doing everything you can for missions?
Our Savior did---follow in His steps----He Gave Everything....
Will you?
Pastor Jim Fryer
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