gcreekrch
Well-known member
Very good point, thanks Burnt.
This week in Christian History
- Thread starter burnt
- Start date
burnt
Well-known member
These excerpts are taken from the website "This Day in Christian History", William D. Blake.
September 26, 1774, "Johnny Appleseed"was born!
Also on the 26th, 1990: "In Russia, the Supreme Soviet ended decades of religious repression with a new declaration, forbidding government interference in religious activities and giving citizens the right to study religion in homes and private schools."
September 28, 1704: "A statute was enacted by the colony of Maryland, giving ministers the right to impose divorce on "unholy couples." "
-quite in contrast to the present where we are moving toward seeing the state force ministers to perform marriages between unholy couples.
"Sept. 29, 1990: In Washington, DC, the National Cathedral (officially, the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul) was completed after 83 years of construction. Begun in 1907, the Gothic edifice had been used in its incomplete form since 1912."
http://www.nationalcathedral.org/visit/onlineVirtualTours.shtml
That sounds like a lifetime! Much like God working on His temple within each of us. I wonder if any of the workers might have occasionally thought of the hymn "Building for Eternity" -
"We are building in sorrow or joy,
A temple the world may not see,
Which time cannot mar or destroy,
We build for eternity.
We are building everyday . . . building for eternity." (Sargent)
Do you and do I each day allow Him to bring us closer to completion? He will not force us to become what he meant for us to be. He will work only in those who recognize that they are incomplete without his redeeming hand at work in bringing them to fulfillment.
"Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20, NET Bible)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMU0G7pTeLo&list=PL2018498757FD7A76&index=48&feature=plpp_video
September 26, 1774, "Johnny Appleseed"was born!
Also on the 26th, 1990: "In Russia, the Supreme Soviet ended decades of religious repression with a new declaration, forbidding government interference in religious activities and giving citizens the right to study religion in homes and private schools."
September 28, 1704: "A statute was enacted by the colony of Maryland, giving ministers the right to impose divorce on "unholy couples." "
-quite in contrast to the present where we are moving toward seeing the state force ministers to perform marriages between unholy couples.
"Sept. 29, 1990: In Washington, DC, the National Cathedral (officially, the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul) was completed after 83 years of construction. Begun in 1907, the Gothic edifice had been used in its incomplete form since 1912."
http://www.nationalcathedral.org/visit/onlineVirtualTours.shtml
That sounds like a lifetime! Much like God working on His temple within each of us. I wonder if any of the workers might have occasionally thought of the hymn "Building for Eternity" -
"We are building in sorrow or joy,
A temple the world may not see,
Which time cannot mar or destroy,
We build for eternity.
We are building everyday . . . building for eternity." (Sargent)
Do you and do I each day allow Him to bring us closer to completion? He will not force us to become what he meant for us to be. He will work only in those who recognize that they are incomplete without his redeeming hand at work in bringing them to fulfillment.
"Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20, NET Bible)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMU0G7pTeLo&list=PL2018498757FD7A76&index=48&feature=plpp_video
burnt
Well-known member
Does anyone else have success in getting onto the Christianity Today Christian Historywebpage? It does not work for me.
Again, taken today from the website "This Day in Christian History", William D. Blake.
Sept 30, "430: Death of Latin Father St. Jerome, ca.75. Converted at 19, Jerome spent the last half of his life rendering the Scriptures into the contemporary ("vulgar") Latin of his day -- hence the "Latin Vulgate" -- as well as preparing commentaries on nearly every book of the Bible."
Sept. 30, "1952: The complete Old and New Testament of the Revised Standard Version (RSV) of the Bible was first published by Thomas Nelson and Sons..."
Translation. Rendition. Word choice. Inspiration. Clearly a most significant matter to many.
While recently reading the Gospel according to John in the NASB, I noticed asterisks beside the verbs in Ch. 20, the Resurrection account. "...Mary came* early to the tomb while it was* still dark, and saw* the stone already taken away from the tomb...ran*...said*...saw*... etc."
My curiosity aroused, I looked for an explanation for the asterisks and discovered that the translators, rather than using the original present tense, chose to use the past tense for those verbs so marked in order to make it flow better and more "readable" in our modern manner. And that's O.K., since the message is greater than the letter of the Scripture.
However, in that case, what happens when we read the story in the more original present tense ? - "...Mary comes early to the tomb while it is still dark, and sees the stone already taken away from the tomb... runs... says... etc."
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20&version=NASB
Does it not have the effect of drawing us into the story as participants rather than mere observers? The translators gave us the option of reading the Easter story more closely to how it was originally written.
You might ask - why is that important?
This is why - the Bible is full of historical facts - Creation, the Exodus, the birth of Christ, His crucifixion, etc, that were relegated to a specific time in history. However when it comes to the significance of the Resurrection, we need to understand that although the event took place almost 2000 years ago, Easter is NOW!
Mary's tears gave her trouble in recognizing Jesus as he stood beside her there next to the empty grave. The disciples' fears caused them to hide from the religious and political authorities after Jesus was killed. That all changed when Jesus showed himself to them after he rose from the grave and Easter became a reality for them!
After he spoke to them, they went out as witnesses to what he had done!
Likewise, our tears and fears can blind us to the reality and power of the Resurrection and we need to be reminded that Easter is now! Jesus is as present with us today as he was with tearful Mary by the empty tomb and with the fearful disciples in the closed-up room. There are times when we need this message, one that was not lost in translation!
"Jesus *said to her, "Mary!" She turned and *said to Him in Hebrew, "Rabboni!" (which means, Teacher)." (John 20:16, NASB)
He is present with his disciples, always, calling their names to reassure them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxXsA_3E2X8
Again, taken today from the website "This Day in Christian History", William D. Blake.
Sept 30, "430: Death of Latin Father St. Jerome, ca.75. Converted at 19, Jerome spent the last half of his life rendering the Scriptures into the contemporary ("vulgar") Latin of his day -- hence the "Latin Vulgate" -- as well as preparing commentaries on nearly every book of the Bible."
Sept. 30, "1952: The complete Old and New Testament of the Revised Standard Version (RSV) of the Bible was first published by Thomas Nelson and Sons..."
Translation. Rendition. Word choice. Inspiration. Clearly a most significant matter to many.
While recently reading the Gospel according to John in the NASB, I noticed asterisks beside the verbs in Ch. 20, the Resurrection account. "...Mary came* early to the tomb while it was* still dark, and saw* the stone already taken away from the tomb...ran*...said*...saw*... etc."
My curiosity aroused, I looked for an explanation for the asterisks and discovered that the translators, rather than using the original present tense, chose to use the past tense for those verbs so marked in order to make it flow better and more "readable" in our modern manner. And that's O.K., since the message is greater than the letter of the Scripture.
However, in that case, what happens when we read the story in the more original present tense ? - "...Mary comes early to the tomb while it is still dark, and sees the stone already taken away from the tomb... runs... says... etc."
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20&version=NASB
Does it not have the effect of drawing us into the story as participants rather than mere observers? The translators gave us the option of reading the Easter story more closely to how it was originally written.
You might ask - why is that important?
This is why - the Bible is full of historical facts - Creation, the Exodus, the birth of Christ, His crucifixion, etc, that were relegated to a specific time in history. However when it comes to the significance of the Resurrection, we need to understand that although the event took place almost 2000 years ago, Easter is NOW!
Mary's tears gave her trouble in recognizing Jesus as he stood beside her there next to the empty grave. The disciples' fears caused them to hide from the religious and political authorities after Jesus was killed. That all changed when Jesus showed himself to them after he rose from the grave and Easter became a reality for them!
After he spoke to them, they went out as witnesses to what he had done!
Likewise, our tears and fears can blind us to the reality and power of the Resurrection and we need to be reminded that Easter is now! Jesus is as present with us today as he was with tearful Mary by the empty tomb and with the fearful disciples in the closed-up room. There are times when we need this message, one that was not lost in translation!
"Jesus *said to her, "Mary!" She turned and *said to Him in Hebrew, "Rabboni!" (which means, Teacher)." (John 20:16, NASB)
He is present with his disciples, always, calling their names to reassure them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxXsA_3E2X8
burnt
Well-known member
Tomorrow, being the second Monday of October, is the date set aside for the Canadian Thanksgiving celebration. Over the centuries elapsed since the first Europeans set foot on what is now Canadian soil, various dates were used for an "official" day for the giving of thanks for the good things we receive from the earth and the Lord's hand.
It was only in 1959, though, that this date was chosen by Parliamentary proclamation - "A Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed ... to be observed on the 2nd Monday in October."
Coincidentally, it was on this date in 1810 that an Anglican scholar, Henry Alford, was born. Although his claim to fame was in translation of Biblical text, we would remember him better as the one who wrote the Thanksgiving hymn "Come, Ye Thankful People, Come."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJn3B7Yebnc
Happy Canadian Thanksgiving to all!
It was only in 1959, though, that this date was chosen by Parliamentary proclamation - "A Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed ... to be observed on the 2nd Monday in October."
Coincidentally, it was on this date in 1810 that an Anglican scholar, Henry Alford, was born. Although his claim to fame was in translation of Biblical text, we would remember him better as the one who wrote the Thanksgiving hymn "Come, Ye Thankful People, Come."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJn3B7Yebnc
Happy Canadian Thanksgiving to all!
burnt
Well-known member
On this date October 14, 1835, William G. Fischer, a future musical composer was born. He penned several compositions which went on to become the score for hymns which we still sing today. Perhaps the best known is "Hankey".
Okay, I didn't recognize the tune either! But the hymn which is set to his tune is more recognizable - "I Love to Tell the Story". And once again, we have the privilege to listen to Alan Jackson bring this song to us -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpfsZZ9X5n8
But it gives even greater joy to retell the story "...of Jesus and His love...", a matchless story of mercy, love, grace, forgiveness, redemption - well it's just a story without equal in all the history of the creation - how we as humans, as a result of our disobedience in Eden, fell from our position of intimate fellowship with our Creator. And for the first time, began to die.
Yet, although Adam and Eve were evicted from Eden, our Heavenly Father did not throw us out of his plans. In fact, he took great measures to bring us back into closeness with him, becoming human, in the body of Jesus, and paying the death penalty for our wrong-doings - on the Cross at Calvary!
Then he rose from the tomb and conquered the power of death forever! Yes, our bodies still die, but because of this great story, our souls, our spirits can experience eternal life with Jesus in Heaven if we simply believe and allow the old, old story to begin to transform us into the persons he intended us to be. Listen to the story as he speaks it to you!
"I love to tell the story, for those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest.
And when, in scenes of glory, I sing the new, new song,
'Twill be the old, old story that I have loved so long.
I love to tell the story, 'twill be my theme in glory,
To tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love."
Okay, I didn't recognize the tune either! But the hymn which is set to his tune is more recognizable - "I Love to Tell the Story". And once again, we have the privilege to listen to Alan Jackson bring this song to us -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpfsZZ9X5n8
But it gives even greater joy to retell the story "...of Jesus and His love...", a matchless story of mercy, love, grace, forgiveness, redemption - well it's just a story without equal in all the history of the creation - how we as humans, as a result of our disobedience in Eden, fell from our position of intimate fellowship with our Creator. And for the first time, began to die.
Yet, although Adam and Eve were evicted from Eden, our Heavenly Father did not throw us out of his plans. In fact, he took great measures to bring us back into closeness with him, becoming human, in the body of Jesus, and paying the death penalty for our wrong-doings - on the Cross at Calvary!
Then he rose from the tomb and conquered the power of death forever! Yes, our bodies still die, but because of this great story, our souls, our spirits can experience eternal life with Jesus in Heaven if we simply believe and allow the old, old story to begin to transform us into the persons he intended us to be. Listen to the story as he speaks it to you!
"I love to tell the story, for those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest.
And when, in scenes of glory, I sing the new, new song,
'Twill be the old, old story that I have loved so long.
I love to tell the story, 'twill be my theme in glory,
To tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love."
burnt
Well-known member
Oct. 23, 1239, the (main) Wells Cathedral in England is consecrated, its construction spanning the centuries from 1175 to 1490. Yes, over three centuries in the building process!
This magnificent work of Gothic architecture includes a unique kind of arch known as a "scissors arch" or inverted arch feature which was designed to better support the weight of its massive spires. Amazingly enough, some of the stained glass windows of this heritage building date back to the 1280 - 1290 era, surviving wars, earthquakes and all the ravages of time.
http://www.wellssomerset.com/shop11631_cat941_wells_cathedral_attractions.htm
The 10 cathedral bells are also in a league of their own, weighing a total of almost 11 tons, the heaviest being the tenor bell named "Harewell", which weighs in at a stunning 6312 lbs.
The Wells Cathedral holds weekly services and is graced by the sounds of the Wells Cathedral Choir, a chorale of wide renown.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QSG1ymbEzs&feature=related
What a history! What a structure! What a sound!
And then some 21 years later, October 24, 1260 marked the consecration of another stunning place of worship - the Chartres Cathedral in France.
These awe-inspiring edifices show that, over time, people spared little expense and effort to express their devotion to a High and Holy God. And while these structures fulfill a purpose, Jesus said that worship is not restricted to a certain place or building, but rather -
"It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration." (John 4:23, 24, MSG.)
Isn't that amazing? While entering these great cathedrals might draw us into a deep sense of worship by virtue of their overwhelming beauty and sheer grandeur, we can worship Him out in the field, on the range, the barn even . . . during those beautiful moments when the all-surpassing reality of His presence (Spirit) comes crashing through all the "drab" experience of common life, gracing the moment with a sense of awe and worship that springs from recognizing His hand at work in some small - or great - act of Divine intervention.
What a gift, that His Spirit would so unexpectedly draw us into communion with Him wherever we are! I think it means that He must really want to visit with us, like a dad who longs to sit and talk with his children!
Have you experienced that, or do you want to? It's as simple as honestly opening your consciousness (spirit) to Him and allowing Him to speak. You won't be disappointed!
This magnificent work of Gothic architecture includes a unique kind of arch known as a "scissors arch" or inverted arch feature which was designed to better support the weight of its massive spires. Amazingly enough, some of the stained glass windows of this heritage building date back to the 1280 - 1290 era, surviving wars, earthquakes and all the ravages of time.
http://www.wellssomerset.com/shop11631_cat941_wells_cathedral_attractions.htm
The 10 cathedral bells are also in a league of their own, weighing a total of almost 11 tons, the heaviest being the tenor bell named "Harewell", which weighs in at a stunning 6312 lbs.
The Wells Cathedral holds weekly services and is graced by the sounds of the Wells Cathedral Choir, a chorale of wide renown.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QSG1ymbEzs&feature=related
What a history! What a structure! What a sound!
And then some 21 years later, October 24, 1260 marked the consecration of another stunning place of worship - the Chartres Cathedral in France.
These awe-inspiring edifices show that, over time, people spared little expense and effort to express their devotion to a High and Holy God. And while these structures fulfill a purpose, Jesus said that worship is not restricted to a certain place or building, but rather -
"It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration." (John 4:23, 24, MSG.)
Isn't that amazing? While entering these great cathedrals might draw us into a deep sense of worship by virtue of their overwhelming beauty and sheer grandeur, we can worship Him out in the field, on the range, the barn even . . . during those beautiful moments when the all-surpassing reality of His presence (Spirit) comes crashing through all the "drab" experience of common life, gracing the moment with a sense of awe and worship that springs from recognizing His hand at work in some small - or great - act of Divine intervention.
What a gift, that His Spirit would so unexpectedly draw us into communion with Him wherever we are! I think it means that He must really want to visit with us, like a dad who longs to sit and talk with his children!
Have you experienced that, or do you want to? It's as simple as honestly opening your consciousness (spirit) to Him and allowing Him to speak. You won't be disappointed!
TexasBred
Well-known member
We certainly can worship anywhere and anytime. The question is "do we". Still no better place to worship than in the Lord's House with the Lord's Children.
burnt
Well-known member
burnt said:
Seems like every now and then another group comes up with a lively rendition of an old favorite. "Go Fish" sure did when they reworked a couple of songs into this contemporary version of "I Love to Tell/ Sweet, Sweet Song...".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02Tp5A6N8FY&feature=relmfu
This group has transitioned from doing the usual Contemporary Christian Music into producing content geared toward children's ministries, including VBS material and music.
This group came to my attention compliments of my daughter, who runs a bustling, growing, children's program at the church she attends.
burnt
Well-known member
"Oct. 28, 312 — exactly 1,700 years ago this Sunday — when Constantine the Great defeated his rival Maxentius' forces at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, and opened a path across the Tiber to Rome." (Jonathan Kay, NP, Oct.28, 2012, see link for his opinion piece - http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/10/26/jonathan-kay-the-day-christianity-became-a-fighting-faith/ )
While Constantine had a definite, lasting impact on the course and profile of Christianity, some theologians are left with justifiable questions on how well the Church thereafter embodied many of the direct teachings of Christ.
On October 28, 1949, American missionary Jim Elliot wrote in his journal what is likely the best-remembered of his sayings: 'He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose'.
What is required for us to know the difference? How do we determine when we should trade the tangible for the intangible, the material for the essential?
October 31, 1852: And from another man's journal this is taken: 'Every landscape is, as it were, a state of the soul, and whoever penetrates into both is astonished to find how much likeness there is in each detail.' (Swiss moral philosopher Henry F. Amiel)
Hmmm, should it come as a surprise that the One who created all things left the "DNA" of his all-encompassing life in every detail of his creation? He delights in sharing the knowledge of the inner life with all who search for it!
November 1, 1512, Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo Buonarotti pulled the cover off (so to speak) of his latest work of art, a 5,808 square-foot masterpiece which he had painted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican! This project took him 4 years, having received a commission in 1508 from Pope Julius II to illustrate "the whole story of the Bible". (William D. Blake, 1987)
http://www.italian-renaissance-art.com/Michelangelo.html
No small assignment, is it, to illustrate "the whole story of the Bible", an inspired collection of writings which recount the interactions of God and humanity. Writings which detail how a "wholly other" God used physical and material means to produce spiritual change in a needy humanity.
How does God go about "revelation" of Himself to humanity?
So great is the task that God has employed a multitude of means to reveal himself to us - through general revelation (seeing His hand in natural law), public revelation (the words of the prophets and apostles) and special revelation - the writer of Hebrews putting it this way:
"God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world." (Ch.1:1,2, NASB)
What a gift, what an honor, to be invited into conversation with the Creator of all things. To be drawn into closeness with the invisible God through the earthly as well through the written word - always under the direction of His Spirit and ultimately through Jesus who was God in human form. It's a relationship that cannot be forced upon anyone!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yj_s9_45QpI
Where might he show himself to you and me this week? Be watching . . .
While Constantine had a definite, lasting impact on the course and profile of Christianity, some theologians are left with justifiable questions on how well the Church thereafter embodied many of the direct teachings of Christ.
On October 28, 1949, American missionary Jim Elliot wrote in his journal what is likely the best-remembered of his sayings: 'He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose'.
What is required for us to know the difference? How do we determine when we should trade the tangible for the intangible, the material for the essential?
October 31, 1852: And from another man's journal this is taken: 'Every landscape is, as it were, a state of the soul, and whoever penetrates into both is astonished to find how much likeness there is in each detail.' (Swiss moral philosopher Henry F. Amiel)
Hmmm, should it come as a surprise that the One who created all things left the "DNA" of his all-encompassing life in every detail of his creation? He delights in sharing the knowledge of the inner life with all who search for it!
November 1, 1512, Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo Buonarotti pulled the cover off (so to speak) of his latest work of art, a 5,808 square-foot masterpiece which he had painted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican! This project took him 4 years, having received a commission in 1508 from Pope Julius II to illustrate "the whole story of the Bible". (William D. Blake, 1987)
http://www.italian-renaissance-art.com/Michelangelo.html
No small assignment, is it, to illustrate "the whole story of the Bible", an inspired collection of writings which recount the interactions of God and humanity. Writings which detail how a "wholly other" God used physical and material means to produce spiritual change in a needy humanity.
How does God go about "revelation" of Himself to humanity?
So great is the task that God has employed a multitude of means to reveal himself to us - through general revelation (seeing His hand in natural law), public revelation (the words of the prophets and apostles) and special revelation - the writer of Hebrews putting it this way:
"God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world." (Ch.1:1,2, NASB)
What a gift, what an honor, to be invited into conversation with the Creator of all things. To be drawn into closeness with the invisible God through the earthly as well through the written word - always under the direction of His Spirit and ultimately through Jesus who was God in human form. It's a relationship that cannot be forced upon anyone!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yj_s9_45QpI
Where might he show himself to you and me this week? Be watching . . .
burnt
Well-known member
Nov. 4, 1646, a group of Puritans who settled in New England (Salem, Boston area) passed a law which made it a capital offense to say that the Bible was not the word of God! While the death penalty may have been an extreme response to one's denial of God's word, it shows how much things have changed. Are schools even allowed to teach that the Bible is the Living Word in written form?
Nov. 5, 1950 marked the first television broadcast of Billy Graham's "Hour of Decision". While the program is only 30 minutes long, it always amazed me that Billy always managed to pack an eternity's-worth of value into such a short time. http://www.billygraham.org/radio-hour-of-decision.asp
Nov. 5, 1959 - think about this quote from C.S. Lewis - "All joy (as distinct from mere pleasure, still more amusement) emphasises our pilgrim status; always reminds, beckons, awakens desire. Our best havings are wantings."
"Why do we Hunger for Beauty", by Steve Bell, captures more of what Lewis was saying - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpnOmOyYxu0
Nov. 6 1777, how about this from Anglican hymnwriter John Newton: "God often takes a course for accomplishing His purposes directly contrary to what our narrow views would prescribe. He brings a death upon our feelings, wishes and prospects when He is about to give us the desire of our hearts." Yet even knowing this, it is so hard to let go of our ways and accept His!
'Nov. 8, 1889: Birth of Oswald J. Smith, Canadian clergyman. Founder of the People's Church of Toronto, Smith also authored a number of books and composed more than 1,200 hymns, including "The Song of the Soul Set Free."' (From "This Day...", WD Blake)
http://www.thepeopleschurch.ca/default.asp#top
Nov. 9, 1938: "Kristallnacht" - the very name strikes horrible images of terror and destruction into those who remember the night when Nazi thugs looted and destroyed thousands of Jewish shops and hundreds of synagogues, killing dozens of Jews and sending thousands more into concentration camps.
So much more to look at in this week's review - if you want, look up "This Day in Christian History" by W.D. Blake. Your comments and insights are always welcome!
Nov. 5, 1950 marked the first television broadcast of Billy Graham's "Hour of Decision". While the program is only 30 minutes long, it always amazed me that Billy always managed to pack an eternity's-worth of value into such a short time. http://www.billygraham.org/radio-hour-of-decision.asp
Nov. 5, 1959 - think about this quote from C.S. Lewis - "All joy (as distinct from mere pleasure, still more amusement) emphasises our pilgrim status; always reminds, beckons, awakens desire. Our best havings are wantings."
"Why do we Hunger for Beauty", by Steve Bell, captures more of what Lewis was saying - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpnOmOyYxu0
Nov. 6 1777, how about this from Anglican hymnwriter John Newton: "God often takes a course for accomplishing His purposes directly contrary to what our narrow views would prescribe. He brings a death upon our feelings, wishes and prospects when He is about to give us the desire of our hearts." Yet even knowing this, it is so hard to let go of our ways and accept His!
'Nov. 8, 1889: Birth of Oswald J. Smith, Canadian clergyman. Founder of the People's Church of Toronto, Smith also authored a number of books and composed more than 1,200 hymns, including "The Song of the Soul Set Free."' (From "This Day...", WD Blake)
http://www.thepeopleschurch.ca/default.asp#top
Nov. 9, 1938: "Kristallnacht" - the very name strikes horrible images of terror and destruction into those who remember the night when Nazi thugs looted and destroyed thousands of Jewish shops and hundreds of synagogues, killing dozens of Jews and sending thousands more into concentration camps.
So much more to look at in this week's review - if you want, look up "This Day in Christian History" by W.D. Blake. Your comments and insights are always welcome!
burnt
Well-known member
Two years have flown by since the first "This Week in Christian History" appeared on this forum. The original source from Christianity Today seems to have been taken down and most of the basic material currently comes from the website "This Day in Christian History" by William D. Blake.
http://halife.com/religion/chistory.html
It has been a source of satisfaction and learning for me as I have studied various sources for the material compiled each week. It's always a challenge, sometimes inspirational and sometimes a struggle. I sure welcome your comments, both critical and otherwise! And I don't intend to quit just yet! Thanks for reading. It's all an effort to draw attention to our Creator and Savior and encourage others to walk more closely with Him!
"Nov. 11, 1620: The "Mayflower Compact" was signed by the 41 Separatists among the passengers of the "Mayflower," serving as the basis for combining themselves "into a civil body politic." Democratic in form, the Compact comprised the first written American constitution, and remained in force until 1691." (W.D. Blake, This Day in Christian History)
November 11, 1760, John Wesley wrote: 'You cannot live on what He did yesterday. Therefore He comes today.' While some may prefer to live in the past and hold firmly to it, there is nothing more exciting than looking forward to what new thing He will do today! There is nothing more important than keeping it current with Jesus Christ.
Nov. 12, 1556: Dutch Anabaptist reformer Menno Simons wrote in a letter: 'I can neither teach nor live by the faith of others. I must live by my own faith as the Spirit of the Lord has taught me through His Word.' (Blake)
The words of Simons were supported some 400 year later on Nov. 12, 1954 by "American Presbyterian missionary Francis Schaeffer [who]wrote in a letter: 'Loyalty to organizations and movements has always tended over time to take the place of loyalty to the person of Christ." (Blake)
But the Apostle Paul had this to say: "Remember, there is only one foundation, the one already laid: Jesus Christ." (1 Cor. 3:11) and then cautioned his listeners to build wisely on that foundation.
Our salvation is totally dependent on our personal acceptance of what Jesus Christ did for you and me on the cross, not on the deeds, creeds or doctrines of others.
Listen as Natalie Grant sings this out very clearly - "In Christ Alone" -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA9WbEn-Nj8&feature=related
Here is a serious challenge from English revivalist George Whitefield who, on Nov. 14, 1739 wrote in his journal: 'We can preach the Gospel of Christ no further than we have experienced the power of it in our own hearts.' (Blake)
Nov. 17, 0003: (BC) According to early Christian theologian Clement of Alexandria (ca.155-ca.220 AD), Jesus Christ was born on this date. (Blake)
http://halife.com/religion/chistory.html
It has been a source of satisfaction and learning for me as I have studied various sources for the material compiled each week. It's always a challenge, sometimes inspirational and sometimes a struggle. I sure welcome your comments, both critical and otherwise! And I don't intend to quit just yet! Thanks for reading. It's all an effort to draw attention to our Creator and Savior and encourage others to walk more closely with Him!
"Nov. 11, 1620: The "Mayflower Compact" was signed by the 41 Separatists among the passengers of the "Mayflower," serving as the basis for combining themselves "into a civil body politic." Democratic in form, the Compact comprised the first written American constitution, and remained in force until 1691." (W.D. Blake, This Day in Christian History)
November 11, 1760, John Wesley wrote: 'You cannot live on what He did yesterday. Therefore He comes today.' While some may prefer to live in the past and hold firmly to it, there is nothing more exciting than looking forward to what new thing He will do today! There is nothing more important than keeping it current with Jesus Christ.
Nov. 12, 1556: Dutch Anabaptist reformer Menno Simons wrote in a letter: 'I can neither teach nor live by the faith of others. I must live by my own faith as the Spirit of the Lord has taught me through His Word.' (Blake)
The words of Simons were supported some 400 year later on Nov. 12, 1954 by "American Presbyterian missionary Francis Schaeffer [who]wrote in a letter: 'Loyalty to organizations and movements has always tended over time to take the place of loyalty to the person of Christ." (Blake)
But the Apostle Paul had this to say: "Remember, there is only one foundation, the one already laid: Jesus Christ." (1 Cor. 3:11) and then cautioned his listeners to build wisely on that foundation.
Our salvation is totally dependent on our personal acceptance of what Jesus Christ did for you and me on the cross, not on the deeds, creeds or doctrines of others.
Listen as Natalie Grant sings this out very clearly - "In Christ Alone" -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA9WbEn-Nj8&feature=related
Here is a serious challenge from English revivalist George Whitefield who, on Nov. 14, 1739 wrote in his journal: 'We can preach the Gospel of Christ no further than we have experienced the power of it in our own hearts.' (Blake)
Nov. 17, 0003: (BC) According to early Christian theologian Clement of Alexandria (ca.155-ca.220 AD), Jesus Christ was born on this date. (Blake)
burnt
Well-known member
November 18, 1626: "... the newly completed St Peter's Basilica ... the largest church in Christendom, with a length of 619 feet. " (Blake)
http://saintpetersbasilica.org/Exterior/Square/Pics/Precepio06.jpg
Looking for a solution to a tough problem in your life? You might take heed to George Whitfield's advice given in a letter dated November 19, 1742 - 'Plead His promises, be much in secret prayer, and never give God rest, till your soul is filled with all His fulness.'
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGjfrjgKni0
Nov. 19, 1862: "Birth of William (Billy) Sunday, American revivalist. Orphaned during the Civil War, Sunday became a major league baseball player 1883-91, then turned to evangelism in 1893, speaking to an estimated total audience of 100 million before his death in 1935." (Blake) For the technology of the times (or lack of), that's a big audience to reach!
Nov. 20 1872 marked the debut of an old favorite hymn of many- "I Need Thee Every Hour" by Annie Sherwood Hawks, 36 at a National Baptist Sunday School Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio. It has brought comfort to many and remains as fresh today as it was when written 140 years ago. That's because there is no other ultimate solution to the challenges life throws our way!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-LkUTjYSUs
Nov. 20, 1850: Fanny Crosby comes to faith in Jesus at age 30. 15 years later, she wrote the first of her 8,000 or more hymns!
And on Nov. 21, 1943 as a political prisoner of the Nazi regime, German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote: 'A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes...and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent.' (Blake)
Nov. 22, 1963: Death of C.S. Lewis, 65, Anglican scholar, novelist and Christian apologist. Well_known for his children's classic, "The Chronicles of Narnia" (1950-56), Lewis also penned other Christian classics, including "The Screwtape Letters" (1943) and "The Great Divorce" (Blake)(1946).
Lewis, at one time an atheist, came to realize that it takes faith in God and his son, Jesus Christ, to give meaning to life!
And on Nov. 23, 1654: "French mathematician Blaise Pascal, 31, underwent a profound religious conversion. He thereupon abandoned his study of science, having realized that "the Christian religion obliges us to live only for God, and to have no other aim than him."" (Blake)
How reassuring to be able to look back over Christian history and see that there are multitudes of men and women whose lives are a witness to the faithfulness of a loving God! He will always be present in our times of need as we turn them over to him.
"All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth." (Heb. 11:13, NLT)
Are you looking forward to a better future?
http://saintpetersbasilica.org/Exterior/Square/Pics/Precepio06.jpg
Looking for a solution to a tough problem in your life? You might take heed to George Whitfield's advice given in a letter dated November 19, 1742 - 'Plead His promises, be much in secret prayer, and never give God rest, till your soul is filled with all His fulness.'
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGjfrjgKni0
Nov. 19, 1862: "Birth of William (Billy) Sunday, American revivalist. Orphaned during the Civil War, Sunday became a major league baseball player 1883-91, then turned to evangelism in 1893, speaking to an estimated total audience of 100 million before his death in 1935." (Blake) For the technology of the times (or lack of), that's a big audience to reach!
Nov. 20 1872 marked the debut of an old favorite hymn of many- "I Need Thee Every Hour" by Annie Sherwood Hawks, 36 at a National Baptist Sunday School Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio. It has brought comfort to many and remains as fresh today as it was when written 140 years ago. That's because there is no other ultimate solution to the challenges life throws our way!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-LkUTjYSUs
Nov. 20, 1850: Fanny Crosby comes to faith in Jesus at age 30. 15 years later, she wrote the first of her 8,000 or more hymns!
And on Nov. 21, 1943 as a political prisoner of the Nazi regime, German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote: 'A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes...and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent.' (Blake)
Nov. 22, 1963: Death of C.S. Lewis, 65, Anglican scholar, novelist and Christian apologist. Well_known for his children's classic, "The Chronicles of Narnia" (1950-56), Lewis also penned other Christian classics, including "The Screwtape Letters" (1943) and "The Great Divorce" (Blake)(1946).
Lewis, at one time an atheist, came to realize that it takes faith in God and his son, Jesus Christ, to give meaning to life!
And on Nov. 23, 1654: "French mathematician Blaise Pascal, 31, underwent a profound religious conversion. He thereupon abandoned his study of science, having realized that "the Christian religion obliges us to live only for God, and to have no other aim than him."" (Blake)
How reassuring to be able to look back over Christian history and see that there are multitudes of men and women whose lives are a witness to the faithfulness of a loving God! He will always be present in our times of need as we turn them over to him.
"All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth." (Heb. 11:13, NLT)
Are you looking forward to a better future?
burnt
Well-known member
"November 25, 2348 BC:: According to Anglican Archbishop James Ussher's Old Testament chronology, Noah's flood began on this date." [CT](That makes yesterday, our first real day of winter 2012 (locally), seem not so bad after all. :wink: )
For more about Ussher's "The Annals of the World" check this link:
http://www.preteristarchive.com/Books/1650_ussher_annals.html
(This does not mean that I subscribe to the Preterist or any other eschatological view!!)
Nov. 25, 1807: "Anglican missionary Henry Martyn wrote in his journal: 'With thee, O my God, there is no disappointment; I shall never have to regret that I loved thee too well.' " (W.D. Blake)
Nov. 25, 1864: British Jewish statesman Benjamin Disraeli declared in a speech: 'Man is a being born to believe, and if no church comes forward with all the title deeds of truth, he will find altars and idols in his own heart and his own imagination.' (Blake)
Disraeli rightly placed a great deal of responsibility on the church with his statement, yet none of us is relieved from our duty to, on our own, pursue God, his truth and our relationship with him.
Nov. 27, 1950: "American missionary martyr Jim Elliot wrote in his journal: 'What gets me into the Kingdom, from Christ's own statement, is not saying "Lord, Lord," but acting "Lord, Lord."'" (Blake)
Elliot likely had in mind the words of Jesus Christ from Matthew 7:22-23 -
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' (NIV)
If this passage doesn't cause Christians to evaluate their relationship with God then I don't know what would!
We could learn something of great importance from German reformer Martin Luther who said on Nov. 30, 1530: 'Whenever I happen to be prevented by the press of duties from observing my hour of prayer, the entire day is bad for me.' Luther recognized the importance of spending time in conversation with Christ, allowing him/his Spirit to inform our minds, thus our actions.
There is no doubt that "the press of duties" can act as a wedge between a person and God. How easy it is to skip the time required to maintain a close relationship with Him. That is when we become self-serving, rather than God-oriented. The best plans are empty and futile if made without the hand of God upon them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eERKnxzNzwg&feature=related
What will those "who come behind us" see when they evaluate our lives? What words will we hear from the Lord when we stand before him? He invites us to walk and talk with him today so that we can know him, and he knows you and me!
For more about Ussher's "The Annals of the World" check this link:
http://www.preteristarchive.com/Books/1650_ussher_annals.html
(This does not mean that I subscribe to the Preterist or any other eschatological view!!)
Nov. 25, 1807: "Anglican missionary Henry Martyn wrote in his journal: 'With thee, O my God, there is no disappointment; I shall never have to regret that I loved thee too well.' " (W.D. Blake)
Nov. 25, 1864: British Jewish statesman Benjamin Disraeli declared in a speech: 'Man is a being born to believe, and if no church comes forward with all the title deeds of truth, he will find altars and idols in his own heart and his own imagination.' (Blake)
Disraeli rightly placed a great deal of responsibility on the church with his statement, yet none of us is relieved from our duty to, on our own, pursue God, his truth and our relationship with him.
Nov. 27, 1950: "American missionary martyr Jim Elliot wrote in his journal: 'What gets me into the Kingdom, from Christ's own statement, is not saying "Lord, Lord," but acting "Lord, Lord."'" (Blake)
Elliot likely had in mind the words of Jesus Christ from Matthew 7:22-23 -
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' (NIV)
If this passage doesn't cause Christians to evaluate their relationship with God then I don't know what would!
We could learn something of great importance from German reformer Martin Luther who said on Nov. 30, 1530: 'Whenever I happen to be prevented by the press of duties from observing my hour of prayer, the entire day is bad for me.' Luther recognized the importance of spending time in conversation with Christ, allowing him/his Spirit to inform our minds, thus our actions.
There is no doubt that "the press of duties" can act as a wedge between a person and God. How easy it is to skip the time required to maintain a close relationship with Him. That is when we become self-serving, rather than God-oriented. The best plans are empty and futile if made without the hand of God upon them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eERKnxzNzwg&feature=related
What will those "who come behind us" see when they evaluate our lives? What words will we hear from the Lord when we stand before him? He invites us to walk and talk with him today so that we can know him, and he knows you and me!
James T said:
Sometimes growing up, I didn't always understand why dad wanted me to do things a certain way. As I grew older, I figured out that he was a lot smarter than I originally though and over the long haul, his ways generally proved successful. I've found the same with the Heavenly Father, except that it isn't generally but always.
I hope this does not come across as anything but as I intend, a description of my walk and lessons I've learned. I once had thoughts that I could believe and joining a church every Sunday wasn't a necessity. Joining a congregation did not seem necessary to communicate with God, Abraham didn't have a church and Noah didn't have a church. But I'm also not them, with their faith and living in their time. When faced with the trials of life, it is an eternal truth that two is stronger than one and three is stronger than two. Otherwise, communities would exist only of individuals. A group can accomplish more than an individual. I don't know of any fortune 500 companies that are composed of one individual. Many of us may need the support of others to stay on the pathway designed for us. There are wise aged men that have been there and done it in life that I glean from and hopefully will assist me in making the best long term decisions.
The design of the church may also not be so much of what you get from it, but what you contribute. I was also robbing myself of the chance to be a servant of others. There is a lot of good that comes from that. It seems to me that a common thread throughout the new testament is that we all serve a purpose in a larger body. I don't possess all talents, but the ones I do, I will do to my fullest ability which gives me more satisfaction and value than if I tried to perform them all.
Tithing
I don't pay to pray. I probably prayed more when I gave less. I give to the church, so that the church has the means to carry out the duties prescribed for it. It is there to support the needy in the their times of trouble. It is there to spread the word of Christ's salvation if you accept Hm as Lord and Savior. I can't be everywhere all the time, but I can support the work. Tithing can be difficult. God's purpose is much larger than mine and often not fathomable by me. But it appears to me that a part of the difficulty I had/have in freely giving with a cheerful heart is the value I place on money and lack of real trust I had in the Lord to provide. I think part of the purpose in tithing is that it keeps me focused on God and not on my money. It places his value first, above my possessions where it should be.
I have found out that when I trust in him and obey, he delivers my needs and even rewards me in ways I couldn't have imagined. When I start to worry about giving when tough times come (like now), I think about this and what blessings and lessons I might be denying myself by not trusting and obeying.
I hope this can be taken as food for thought and that you read the scriptures for yourself and pray about it all to find peace in your decisions.
I appreciate where your coming from okfarmer and hope that the religious organization that you are a member of is taking care of your spiritual needs. I leave it to you to resolve 1 Cor 1:10-13 in your own mind and we can add Acts 17: 23 and 24. There are others but, no matter. Yes, I have read the Bible and still do. And without the guidance of a sectarian leader. To do so sheds a whole new light on things. I still appreciate the religious organizations though, as divisive as they are. It's kind of like the US government; the system has a lot of faults but it's still the best system there is. To read the Bible on your own and to discuss it with others (not sectarian) is a wonderful thing! But it takes a commitment and a lot of thought.
Jesus said "I will build my church" Mat 16:18. Church, as in ekklesia - community or congregation. Man is the author of churches - divisive religious organizations.
In any case, if your organization fulfills your spiritual journey without divisiveness,then by all means you should support it's edifices, programs etc. Hopefully, there will be enough left over to help someone on the outside in need.
Jesus said "I will build my church" Mat 16:18. Church, as in ekklesia - community or congregation. Man is the author of churches - divisive religious organizations.
In any case, if your organization fulfills your spiritual journey without divisiveness,then by all means you should support it's edifices, programs etc. Hopefully, there will be enough left over to help someone on the outside in need.
burnt
Well-known member
Thank you for contributing an interesting discussion, gentlemen!
December 2, 1697: St Paul's Cathedral in London, designed by Christopher Wren, is dedicated. It replaced a medieval cathedral at the site that had burned in the Great Fire of 1666. (Christianity Today)
Just prior to its destruction by the Great fire of London in 1666, the original cathedral had been commandeered by government forces and converted to an army barracks and stable to hold 800 horses.
For those who like to take a deeper look at the cathedral's history: http://www.stpauls.co.uk/Cathedral-History/Cathedral-History
Dec. 3, 1902: Mitsuo Fuchida was born. He became the pilot who led Japan's air attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. 9 years later, he converted to Christianity through the outreach of an organization called the Pocket Testament League.
This group was started by Helen Cadbury, daughter of the president of Cadbury Chocolates, as a means of sharing her faith! For more about her fascinating story and it's worldwide impact - http://www.ptl.org/about/history.php
God must smile when the power of His message prevails over the hatred and anger of broken humanity in such stunningly contrasting situations. Fuchida's journey to faith can be read here in his own words- http://www.biblebelievers.com/fuchida1.html - or here -
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/news/2001/jun01.html
Dec. 4, 1966: Swiss Reformed theologian Karl Barth wrote in a letter: 'The good Lord, in spite of reports to the contrary, is not dead.' (Blake)
Dec. 5, 1848, Joseph Mohr died at the age of 56. 30 years earlier, he penned the words to "Silent Night", and asked Franz Gruber to compose a tune to which it would be sung. It gained wide recognition and acceptance and "was sung simultaneously in French, English and German by troops during the Christmas truce of 1914, as it was one carol that soldiers on both sides of the front line knew." (Wiki) That scene creates a dichotomy that boggles the mind.
Dec. 5, 1988: "Televangelist Jim Bakker was charged by a federal grand jury with mail fraud and conspiracy to defraud...convicted the following year and sentenced to prison" (Blake)
Dec. 6, 1538: German Reformer Martin Luther stated: 'With all our thoughts we can't get beyond the visible and physical. No man's heart comprehends eternity.' (Blake) What kind of vision does that require? It's beyond me! But that does not stop one, nor should it, from contemplating the prospect.
Dec. 7, 1965: "The Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox churches formally reconciled themselves by reversing a mutual excommunication of each other, dating back (over 900 years!) to July 1054." (Blake)
Dec. 8, 1775: "Anglican clergyman and hymnwriter John Newton wrote in a letter: 'This is faith: a renouncing of everything we are apt to call our own and relying wholly upon the blood, righteousness and intercession of Jesus.' " (Blake)
The Apostle Paul said - "I gave up all that inferior stuff so I could know Christ personally, experience his resurrection power, be a partner in his suffering, and go all the way with him to death itself. If there was any way to get in on the resurrection from the dead, I wanted to do it." (Phillipians 3:10, 11. Msg.)
Again, such an understanding goes against our human nature, but results in a freedom that cannot be attained otherwise. And it is something we "see" with our heart, as much as our mind.
This song, performed by a blind, autistic boy, Christopher Duffley, shows this truth as well as any message ever given on the matter - "Open the Eyes of my Heart, Lord".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPTMA7HIIyk
Blake's history link - http://halife.com/religion/chistory.html
December 2, 1697: St Paul's Cathedral in London, designed by Christopher Wren, is dedicated. It replaced a medieval cathedral at the site that had burned in the Great Fire of 1666. (Christianity Today)
Just prior to its destruction by the Great fire of London in 1666, the original cathedral had been commandeered by government forces and converted to an army barracks and stable to hold 800 horses.
For those who like to take a deeper look at the cathedral's history: http://www.stpauls.co.uk/Cathedral-History/Cathedral-History
Dec. 3, 1902: Mitsuo Fuchida was born. He became the pilot who led Japan's air attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. 9 years later, he converted to Christianity through the outreach of an organization called the Pocket Testament League.
This group was started by Helen Cadbury, daughter of the president of Cadbury Chocolates, as a means of sharing her faith! For more about her fascinating story and it's worldwide impact - http://www.ptl.org/about/history.php
God must smile when the power of His message prevails over the hatred and anger of broken humanity in such stunningly contrasting situations. Fuchida's journey to faith can be read here in his own words- http://www.biblebelievers.com/fuchida1.html - or here -
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/news/2001/jun01.html
Dec. 4, 1966: Swiss Reformed theologian Karl Barth wrote in a letter: 'The good Lord, in spite of reports to the contrary, is not dead.' (Blake)
Dec. 5, 1848, Joseph Mohr died at the age of 56. 30 years earlier, he penned the words to "Silent Night", and asked Franz Gruber to compose a tune to which it would be sung. It gained wide recognition and acceptance and "was sung simultaneously in French, English and German by troops during the Christmas truce of 1914, as it was one carol that soldiers on both sides of the front line knew." (Wiki) That scene creates a dichotomy that boggles the mind.
Dec. 5, 1988: "Televangelist Jim Bakker was charged by a federal grand jury with mail fraud and conspiracy to defraud...convicted the following year and sentenced to prison" (Blake)
Dec. 6, 1538: German Reformer Martin Luther stated: 'With all our thoughts we can't get beyond the visible and physical. No man's heart comprehends eternity.' (Blake) What kind of vision does that require? It's beyond me! But that does not stop one, nor should it, from contemplating the prospect.
Dec. 7, 1965: "The Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox churches formally reconciled themselves by reversing a mutual excommunication of each other, dating back (over 900 years!) to July 1054." (Blake)
Dec. 8, 1775: "Anglican clergyman and hymnwriter John Newton wrote in a letter: 'This is faith: a renouncing of everything we are apt to call our own and relying wholly upon the blood, righteousness and intercession of Jesus.' " (Blake)
The Apostle Paul said - "I gave up all that inferior stuff so I could know Christ personally, experience his resurrection power, be a partner in his suffering, and go all the way with him to death itself. If there was any way to get in on the resurrection from the dead, I wanted to do it." (Phillipians 3:10, 11. Msg.)
Again, such an understanding goes against our human nature, but results in a freedom that cannot be attained otherwise. And it is something we "see" with our heart, as much as our mind.
This song, performed by a blind, autistic boy, Christopher Duffley, shows this truth as well as any message ever given on the matter - "Open the Eyes of my Heart, Lord".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPTMA7HIIyk
Blake's history link - http://halife.com/religion/chistory.html
TexasBred
Well-known member
Good post Okfarmer. A lot of wolves out there these days wanting your money and more popping up everyday.
burnt
Well-known member
On this date in 1840, Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone set sail on his first journey to Africa.
http://www.sorbie.net/david_livingstone.htm
Here is a thought to ponder while experiencing daily life in the "real" world -
Dec. 10, 1956: "English Christian apologist C.S. Lewis wrote in a letter: 'In so far as the things unseen are manifested by the things seen, one might from one point of view call the whole material universe an allegory.' " (Blake)
Would this not suggest that our Creator has placed clues to his being and glimpses of his life in every molecule of the universe? Add to the picture a naturally curious, seeking, human mind and watch the potential for discovery of the giver of life!
Dec. 11, 1962: "American missionary and apologist Francis Schaeffer wrote in a letter: 'Our trusting the Lord does not mean that there are not times of tears. I think it is a mistake as Christians to act as though trusting the Lord and tears are not compatible.' " (Blake)
Dec. 14, 1955: "Catholic religious leader, Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, 60, was quoted in "Look" magazine on this date as stating that 'an atheist is a man who has no invisible means of support.' " (Blake)
Dec. 15, 1558: "Dutch Anabaptist reformer Menno Simons wrote in a letter: 'Wherever there is a pulverized and penitent heart, there grace also is, and wherever there is a voluntary confession not gained by pressure, there love covereth a multitude of sins.' " (Blake)
http://www.sorbie.net/david_livingstone.htm
Here is a thought to ponder while experiencing daily life in the "real" world -
Dec. 10, 1956: "English Christian apologist C.S. Lewis wrote in a letter: 'In so far as the things unseen are manifested by the things seen, one might from one point of view call the whole material universe an allegory.' " (Blake)
Would this not suggest that our Creator has placed clues to his being and glimpses of his life in every molecule of the universe? Add to the picture a naturally curious, seeking, human mind and watch the potential for discovery of the giver of life!
Dec. 11, 1962: "American missionary and apologist Francis Schaeffer wrote in a letter: 'Our trusting the Lord does not mean that there are not times of tears. I think it is a mistake as Christians to act as though trusting the Lord and tears are not compatible.' " (Blake)
Dec. 14, 1955: "Catholic religious leader, Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, 60, was quoted in "Look" magazine on this date as stating that 'an atheist is a man who has no invisible means of support.' " (Blake)
Dec. 15, 1558: "Dutch Anabaptist reformer Menno Simons wrote in a letter: 'Wherever there is a pulverized and penitent heart, there grace also is, and wherever there is a voluntary confession not gained by pressure, there love covereth a multitude of sins.' " (Blake)
Big Muddy rancher
Well-known member
You forgot that in this week of December of 1955 the poster of "This week in Christian History" was born. 