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This week in Christian History

Big Muddy rancher said:
You forgot that in this week of December of 1955 the poster of "This week in Christian History" was born. :D :D
Click to expand...

Well it seems that all the right people remembered! The family took me out for a terrific brunch yesterday (not quite on the date) and I think I made history with the number of trips to the breakfast bar, never saw such a selection of breakfast stuff in one place before . . . (Might not have been too Christian though now that I think of it :oops: :oops: )
 
Dec. 16, 1786: "Birth of Konrad Kocher, German chorister and composer of the hymn tune DIX ("For the Beauty of the Earth"). Kocher did much to popularize four-part singing in the churches." (Blake)

Seldom is there a more beautiful sound than that of a chorale inspired to worship God with voices blending in unifying harmony.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEi463LcxxA

Dec. 17, 1843: "Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" was first published. The "social conversion" of Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve may be seen as a literary symbol (based on the events of the first Christmas night) of the human potential released through spiritual conversion." (Blake)

Dec. 18, 1892: "Rabbi H. Rosenberg was expelled from Temple Beth-Jacob in Brooklyn, NY, for eating pork." (Blake)

Dec. 18, 1943: "German theologian and Nazi martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote in a letter from prison: 'The man who finds God in his earthly happiness...does not lack reminder that earthly things are transient...and...there will be times when he can say in all sincerity, "I wish I were home."' (Blake)

What child of God has not, at one time or another, wondered what it must be like on the other side, and felt a stirring to taste eternal life in the presence of our Savior?

The apostle Paul said this - "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21, KJV)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RfoiZjdOww&list=PL2018498757FD7A76&index=24

Dec. 22, 1804: "Anglican missionary to Persia Henry Martyn wrote in his journal: 'I look forward to a day of prayer; for my soul hath great need of quickening and restoration, that it may act more in the view of eternity.' " (Blake)

Amazing! And how often do I wrestle with taking even 5 minutes in prayer to begin the day? There is no doubt that spending time in close conversation with our heavenly Father changes how we see things.
 
Dec. 24, 1818: In St. Nicholas Church at Oberndorf, Austria, church organist Franz Gruber, 31, composed a melody on guitar for the poem, "Stille Nacht," written earlier by pastor Joseph Mohr, 26. This evening the world heard "Silent Night" sung for the very first time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjBguPLeOi8

Dec. 25, 0336: "This is the earliest known year that Jesus' nativity was celebrated on December 25th, as mentioned in the Philocalian Calendar of A.D. 354. Jesus' birth was commemorated on January 6th in Greek Orthodoxy, although by the 400s most of the Eastern churches had accepted the Roman date." (Blake) However, based upon Biblical accounts of other, known historical events such as the death of Herod the Great, it would appear the the actual birth of Jesus took place around the year 4, BC., making him about 4 years of age at the beginning of the Roman calender which we use today.

Dec. 26, 1830: "Birth of William Caven, Scottish_born Canadian Presbyterian leader. He taught at Knox College, in Toronto, the last 39 years of his life. Though staunchly conservative, Caven was genuinely interested in social issues and thoroughly committed to missions." (Blake) What does practical Christian faith look like today? How does it take on human skin?

Dec. 28, 1741: "English revivalist George Whitefield wrote in a letter: 'Redeem your precious time: pick up the fragments of it, that not one moment of it may be lost. Be much in secret prayer. Converse less with man, and more with God.' (Blake)

Dec. 29, 1876: The world lost a prolific, young hymnwriter, Philip P. Bliss, of Chicago. He and his wife died when the train in which they were riding plunged into a deep ravine in Ohio when a railway bridge collapsed beneath them. Although Philip survived the initial fall, he died of burns received while trying to save his wife.

For a (very graphic) account of this horrific wreck follow this link -

http://www.wholesomewords.org/biography/biobliss5.html

One favorite hymn written by P.P. Bliss, "Let the Lower Lights be Burning" -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psaU_9LsUTU

So soon after Christmas, it happened. Why, we would ask, why are these disasters allowed?? What unimaginable, shattering grief must be choking the community around Newtown, CT.? This week, a local young man lost his life while working in a logging operation nearby. In a grim display of irony, the local radio station ran the pre-programmed Christmas greetings - "...wishing everyone a happy Christmas season..." from his parents' business soon after airing the news of his death.

It seems that hurt and suffering do not take a holiday while we celebrate significant events such as the one we look forward to on Christmas Day. While most rejoice in this season, it is a time of deep pain for many others who have suffered hurt and loss.

If there is one message to offer to all in this Advent season, it is that God is not done working. While the birth of Christ the Savior is indeed great cause to celebrate, it is only the beginning of our redemption. The final act is yet to come - the moment when he makes his second appearance on earth and once and for all puts an end to suffering and banishes evil and its proponents to eternal destruction.

But those who look for his coming again will be taken to the new heaven and new earth to enjoy eternal life, free from hurts, suffering and sin!

I love celebrating Christmas, but at the same time understand that it is not the final chapter in the book! A blessed Christmas to all!

"He came into the very world he created, but the world didn't recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness..." (John 1:10-14, NLT)
 
Let's look forward at the New Year today instead of back.

While grateful for the good things of the old Year, we anticipate what it will bring and know that we can face it confidently with this promise from the book of Jeremiah -
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT)

Best wishes for health, prosperity and peace to all in the coming New Year! May any troubles of the old year be gone and lose their sting. And may the Lord bless each of your steps with light and grace.

"New Year's Prayer
Lord, this year I want to change,
and I've said that in the past.
but now my prayer is different
'cause I understand at last.

I wanted my own way before,
I ignored your loving plans.
But now I'm putting everything
into your nail-scarred hands.

I promise to obey you
out of gratitude and love.
I won't be giving orders
to my Father up above.

I finally realize the truth
and so I've changed my prayer.
The safest place for me to be
is in your gentle care.

Please be my shepherd, Jesus,
that's all I ask of you.
In good times and in bad this year,
Take my hand and lead me through.

Amen."

--Jack Zavada

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoTrp94a8Bc
 
January 6th - Up until 548 AD, the Jerusalem (or Eastern) Church celebrated the birth of Jesus on January 6. The Western Church (the Western Roman Empire) had begun to celebrate "Crīstesmæsse, meaning "Christ's Mass", on December 25th early in the 4th century.

"January 6, 1850: Charles Spurgeon, who would become one of the greatest preachers of all time, converts to Christianity after receiving a vision, "not a vision to my eyes, but to my heart. I saw what a Savior Christ was," he wrote, "I can never tell you how it was, but I no sooner saw Whom I was to believe than I also understood what it was to believe, and I did believe in one moment" (see issue 29: Charles Spurgeon)." (C.T.)

Jan. 7, 1610 "Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei, 46, discovered four satellites of Jupiter with the aid of the newly invented telescope. His discovery revolutionized astronomy, and led Galileo to adopt the Copernican (heliocentric) model of the solar system in place of the older, less adequate, Ptolemaic (earth-centered) view. "

It is hard to imagine the impact of this change of view had on human self-image at the time. Rather than being big players on a small field, people began to realize that their home, Planet Earth, was a tiny speck in a vast universe that was far greater than what anyone had imagined before this era.

Yet however small you and I might be in comparison to the limitless expanse of the universe, we are the primary object of the love and care of our Creator, Father, God!

David, the Psalmist might have had some idea of how God's embrace covers the scope of things when he wrote these words in Psalm 139:7-10, and even today we find great assurance in his thoughts-

"I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!
If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave,a you are there.
If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans,
even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me." (NLT)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjj2kZ1qoqw

Jan. 8, 624 the Moslem army occupied Kurashitische Caravan. This military victory marked the establishment of the prophet/leader Muhammad and the rise of the Moslem peoples.

Jan. 8, 1598, the Jews were expelled from Genoa Italy.

Jan. 8, 1838, the first message in dots and dashes was sent by telegraph. A very significant step forward in communications, but seems rather primitive now that most people send numerous text messages every day!!

Jan. 10, 49 BCE, Julius Caesar crossed the Rubicon and invaded Italy, a treasonous but successful act which ultimately led to the consolidation of the Roman Empire. This growing empire led to the development of the civic, military and social infrastructure that provided the means to rapidly disseminate the news of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Savoir of the world. God works in mysterious ways to accomplish His work!

Caesar's act was considered to be one of insurrection, which, if unsuccessful, would result in his death. After spending some time vacillating between the choices of staying on the north side of the river with his army, or breaking the Imperial decree that no armies may cross the river, he decided to take his chances on victory or defeat and go across.

Hence the idiom "Crossing the Rubicon", which means that one is passing the point of no return. It means commitment to a certain goal no matter how great the hazard or the cost.

http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/caesar.htm

Jan. 10, 1947: "U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall prayed: 'May we resolve, God helping us, to be part of the answer, and not part of the problem.' " (Blake)

Jan. 11, 1523 "German reformer Martin Luther wrote in a letter: 'It is unchristian, even unnatural, to derive benefit and protection from the community and not also to share in the common burden and expense; to let other people work but to harvest the fruit of their labors.' " (Blake)

Jan 6, 2012 - Reread the previous quotation and consider how one might work to change abuses of Luther's principle. Criticism is ineffective without offering and being a part of dynamic solutions.
 
Jan. 14, 1601 "Church authorities burn Hebrew books in Rome" (Scope System)

A radical idea for those who don't like taxes - which is most of us -

Jan. 14, 1966 "French-born American trappist monk Thomas Merton wrote in a letter: 'The best way to solve the problem of rendering to Caesar what is Caesar's is to have nothing that is Caesar's.' " (Blake)

Jan. 14, 1972 "American Presbyterian apologist Francis Schaeffer wrote in a letter: 'I have come to the conclusion that none of us in our generation feels as guilty about sin as we should or as our forefathers did.' " (Blake)

Jan. 15, 1697 "The citizens of Massachusetts spent a day of fasting and repentance for their roles in the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Judge Samuel Sewall, who had presided over many of those 20 capital judgments, published a written confession acknowledging his own "blame and shame." " (Blake)

What could happen if our society would demonstrate that kind of conscience today?

Jan. 15, 1970 "Israeli archaeologists reported uncovering the first evidence supporting the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. by military forces of the ancient Roman Empire." (Blake)

Jan. 16, 308 "St Marcellus I ends his reign as Catholic Pope" (Scope System)

Jan. 16, 1740 "English revivalist George Whitefield wrote in a letter: 'If I see a man who loves the Lord Jesus in sincerity, I am not very solicitous to what...communion he belongs. The Kingdom of God, I think, does not consist in any such thing.' " (Blake)

Jan. 17, 1745 "Colonial missionary to the American Indians David Brainerd wrote in his journal: 'Oh, how comfortable and sweet it is, to feel the assistance of divine grace in the performance of the duties which God has enjoined on us!' " (Blake)

Brainerd's words are reminiscent of the Jewish leader, Nehemiah who said this - "Then I told them about how the gracious hand of God had been on me, and about my conversation with the king. They replied at once, "Yes, let's rebuild the wall!" So they began the good work." (Nehemiah 2:18. NIV)

A humble effort directed by divine providence is of far greater value to the Kingdom than the might of armies under misguided human interest.

Jan. 18, 1943 "Presliced bread sale banned to reduce bakery demand for metal parts" (S.S.) Curious war effect on everyday life!

Jan. 19, 570 - birth of Islamic prophet, Mohammed.

Jan. 19, 1955 " 'Scrabble' debuts on board game market." (S.S.)
 
Jan. 20, 1918 "In Russia, following the Bolshevik Revolution, all church property was confiscated and all religious instruction in the schools was abolished."(ScopeSystems/WDBlake)

And another black mark on this date:

Jan. 20, 1942 "Nazi officials hold notorious Wannsee conference in Berlin deciding on "final solution" calling for extermination of Europe's Jews" (SS/WDB)

Jan. 21, 1525 "History's first Anabaptist baptismal service took place in Zurich, Switzerland, when Conrad Grebel (re-)baptized George Blaurock."

Blaurock, Grebel, Felix Manz, and later Menno Simons, were some of the principle, early movers of the Anabaptist faith, all young men who had studied extensively, some having become priests, but all gradually coming to a common belief that their understanding of the Gospel message required them to living a simple, non-violent life, evangelical in nature, that baptism was to be administered upon confession of faith, and that all believers were equal under God and personally accountable before God, and adhered to a strict New Testament Biblicism.

Except for Simons, the rest were martyred for their faith along with many others who were rebaptized, persecuted by both the Church of Rome and other reformers. Luther believed that they " ...should be punished by the sword..." for what he deemed to be extremism and heresy. Strange, indeed, considering that Luther himself was no darling of the Church. It is difficult to find support for his militant attitude in the teachings of Christ.

Today, the Anabaptist faith has taken on widely diverse expressions that range from horse-and-buggy driving Amish and Old Order Mennonites to modern Mennonites that show little outward distinction from mainstream society and participate in every aspect of life, including holding political office. What has not changed is that the distinguishing principles of the founders are still in effect as illustrated by the words of teaching pastor Bruxy Cavey of the Meeting House, Toronto,"The minute you pick up the sword, you put down the cross".

An interesting trailer on the series "Inglorious Pastors" that presents the non-violent Anabaptist view -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yctEE9jlY4U

Jan. 23, 1935 "British biblical expositor Arthur W. Pink wrote in a letter: 'Growth in grace is like the growth of a cow's tail - the more it truly grows, the closer to the ground it is brought.'" (StudyLight.org. WDB)


Jan. 26, 1779 "Pioneer American Methodist bishop Francis Asbury wrote in his journal: 'We should so work as if we were to be saved by our works; and so rely on Jesus Christ, as if we did no works.'" (StudyLight.org. WDB)
 
Jan. 30, 435, the Romans recognized the Vandals territorial claims in North Africa, thus putting off an impending invasion of a steadily-weakening Rome for another 20 years. The Vandals were a Germanic group of Barbarians that had migrated to North Africa under unknown circumstances.

However, this "treaty" only put off the sacking of Rome until 455AD and the once-mighty and vast Roman Empire came to an end by the swords of the invading Barbarian hordes, as well as from decay from within. Yet its influence remained, not the least of which was the establishment of the Christian faith as a world influence.

For a fascinating snippet of this era of Christian history and how the wheels turned that made Europe what it is, read here -
http://www.mainlesson.com/display.php?author=marshall&book=sketches&story=barbarians

Assault from without - by those considered to be very unsophisticated, decay from within - spiritual, moral, economic decline, always precedes the end of once-great empires.

We in the West need to be warned, because all signs - spiritual, political, social upheaval and breakdown, spending far more than we are earning or producing to support unsupportable lifestyles - point to the same conditions as those that prevailed in past, failed cultures.

May God draw us back into ways that acknowledge his Lordship over all people and creation. It's the way that Jesus came to illustrate when he lived on earth. And the world does not like it.

"They shouted to the Lord and said, "O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?" (Revelation 6:10, NLT)

"Jan. 30, 1788 Pioneer American Methodist bishop Francis Asbury wrote in his journal: 'Alas for the rich! They are so soon offended.'" (W.D. Blake)

Feb. 1, 1750, Anglican clergyman and hymnwriter John Newton (author of "Amazing Grace"), 24, wedded Mary Catlett..." (W.D. Blake)

Take courage in this - Feb. 2, 1779, "Pioneer American Methodist bishop Francis Asbury reflected in his journal: 'God is gracious beyond the power of language to describe.' " (W.D. Blake)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dH_fliKgOHo
 
TexasBred said:
I've never understood the multiple "re-baptizing" especially when those that do it usually say it's nothing more than "symbolic".
Click to expand...

TexasBred, I'm not ignoring your post here. It's just that you are making me work harder on this issue than what I'm accustomed to!

You raise a good point and I've been thinking further on it before I even attempt to speak to it. And rest assured that far greater minds than mine have grappled with the matter of baptism upon confession of faith so what I offer will be far less than comprehensive!
 
Feb. 4, 1441 "Pope Eugene IV published the encyclical "Cantante domino." It asserted that the biblical canon of the Roman Catholic Church contains both the 66 protocanonical books (i.e., the complete Protestant Bible) and 12 deuterocanonical (aka "apocryphal") books 78 writings in all. " (SS/WD Blake)

Feb. 4, 1950 "American missionary and martyr Jim Elliot resolved in his journal: 'I may no longer depend on pleasant impulses to bring me before the Lord. I must rather respond to principles I know to be right, whether I feel them to be enjoyable or not.' " (SS/WD Blake)

Feb. 5, 1944 "German theologian and Nazi martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote in a letter from prison: 'Much that worries us beforehand can afterwards, quite unexpectedly, have a happy and simple solution... Things really are in a better hand than ours.' " (SS/WD Blake)

Feb. 6, 1931 "Pioneer American linguist and missionary Frank Laubach wrote in a letter: 'There is a deep peace that grows out of illness and loneliness and a sense of failure. God cannot get close when everything is delightful. He seems to need these darker hours, these empty-hearted hours, to mean the most to people.' " (SS/WD Blake)

And you thought it was chilly lately? - Feb. 6, 1933 "-90ºF (-68ºC), Oymyakon, USSR (Asian record)" (SS)

Feb 7, 1528 "Bern, the strongest canton (territorial division) in southern Switzerland in its day, officially embraced the Protestant faith of Swiss reformers Ulrich Zwingli and John Oecolampadius. " (SS/WD Blake)

Feb. 7, 1947 "U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall prayed: 'We want to do right, and to be right; so start us in the right way, for Thou knowest that we are very hard to turn.' " (WD Blake)

Marshall's words echo those of the prophet Jeremiah 17:9,10:

"The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful,
a puzzle that no one can figure out.
But I, God, search the heart
and examine the mind.
I get to the heart of the human.
I get to the root of things.
I treat them as they really are,
not as they pretend to be."


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EbrqDRFbqc

The mark of the committed believer -

Feb. 9, 1930 "American pioneer linguist and missionary Frank Laubach wrote in a letter: 'The sense of being led by an unseen hand which takes mine, while another hand reaches ahead and prepares the way, grows upon me daily.'" (WD Blake)

Laubach sensed of the same hand as that spoken of by Nehemiah, the Old Testament leader who oversaw the rebuilding of Jerusalem after the captivity -

"I also told them about the gracious hand of my God upon me and what the king had said to me. They replied, "Let us start rebuilding." So they began this good work." (Nehemiah 2:18, NIV)

I hope that each one of you will sense that Hand on your life this coming week!
 
burnt said:
TexasBred said:
I've never understood the multiple "re-baptizing" especially when those that do it usually say it's nothing more than "symbolic".
Click to expand...

TexasBred, I'm not ignoring your post here. It's just that you are making me work harder on this issue than what I'm accustomed to!

You raise a good point and I've been thinking further on it before I even attempt to speak to it. And rest assured that far greater minds than mine have grappled with the matter of baptism upon confession of faith so what I offer will be far less than comprehensive!
Click to expand...

No response necessary my friend.
 
Feb. 10, AD60: St Paul thought to have been shipwrecked at Malta (Scope System)

Feb. 10, 1546: German reformer Martin Luther wrote in a letter to his wife Kate: 'Pray, and let God worry.' (WD Blake, from Study Light Org)


Feb 10, 1947: U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall prayed: 'Save Thy servants from the tyranny of the nonessential. Give them the courage to say "No" to everything that makes it more difficult to say "Yes" to Thee.' (WD Blake, SLO) A prayer for discernment.


Feb. 11, 1948: U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall prayed: 'We ask Thee not for tasks more suited to our strength, but for strength more suited to our tasks.' (WD Blake, SLO) A prayer for endurance.

Feb. 12, 1502: Granada Moslems (Spain) forced to convert to Catholicism (SS)

Mosques were destroyed and churches built on their sites. Now, some 500 years later Islam is rebuilding - rapidly - marking a significant turn of events with grave implications for not only Europe but all western civilization. Will Christianity be revived and stave off the recurring Muslim wave? The response is up to us - return to a full embrace and expression of the Christian faith or give up to unbelievers our freedom to worship Christ.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/spain/1435584/After-500-years-Granadas-Muslims-get-their-mosque.html

From the above article - 'It is, say its builders, the symbol of the revival of Islam in Europe and Spain's "glorious Islamic heritage".'

Feb. 13, 1951: Death of Lloyd C. Douglas, 74, American Congregational clergyman and novelist. He published his first religious novel "Magnificent Obsession" in 1929, followed later by "The Robe" (1942) and "The Big Fisherman" (1948). (WD Blake, SLO) Douglas' novels have provided hours of delightful reading for many decades. Highly recommended for light reading!

Feb. 15, 1386: King Jagiello of Lithuania was baptized into the Christian faith. Lithuania being the last heathen nation in Europe, Jagiello's conversion finalized the Macedonian Vision in Acts 16:9, leading St. Paul to begin taking the Gospel to Europe. (WD Blake, SLO)

Feb. 15, 1762: Anglican hymnwriter John Newton wrote in a letter: 'We serve a gracious Master who knows how to overrule even our mistakes to His glory and our own advantage.' (WD Blake, SLO)
 
Feb. 17, 1568: "Holy Roman Emperor agrees to pay annual tribute to Sultan for peace" (SS) This treaty saw the Emperor retain control over Vienna and surrounding territory, but gave up Hungary to the Ottoman Empire.

Feb. 17, 1936: "-58º F (-50º C), McIntosh SD (state record)" (SS)

Feb. 18, 1688: "At a monthly meeting in Germantown, PA, a group of Quakers and Mennonites became the first white body in English America to register a formal protest against slavery. The historic "Germantown Protest" denounced both slavery and the slave trade." (StudyLight.Org)

Feb. 19, 1568: "Death of Miles Coverdale, 80, translator and publisher of the first complete Bible to be printed in English (1535). Coverdale was also editor of the Great Bible of 1539." (SLO)

With the present-day proliferation of Bible translations and paraphrases at our disposal, it is so easy to forget the great effort and cost of how we came to have the Scriptures available to us in our everyday language. Do we value it as the "Logos", the living, powerful Word of God that brings light into our lives? Do not neglect this important part of your life - read it and allow Him to speak through it to you each day!

"Myles Coverdale and John "Thomas Matthew" Rogers had remained loyal disciples the last six years of Tyndale's life, and they carried the English Bible project forward and even accelerated it. Coverdale finished translating the Old Testament, and in 1535 he printed the first complete Bible in the English language, making use of Luther's German text and the Latin as sources. Thus, the first complete English Bible was printed on October 4, 1535, and is known as the Coverdale Bible." (Excerpt from greatsite.com, English Bible History)

Feb.19, 1942: "Presidential Executive Order 9066 began placing 100,000 persons of Japanese ancestry (of which over 2/3 were American-born citizens) into ten "relocation centers" for the duration of WWII. During confinement within the armed, barbed-wire surroundings, however, prayer meetings, Bible studies and worship services were held." (SLO)

Feb. 20, 1743: "Colonial missionary to the American Indians David Brainerd wrote in his journal: 'Selfish religion loves Christ for his benefits, but not for himself.'" (SLO)

- "loaves and fishes" followers are just as common today as when Jesus walked on the earth . . . how often do we come to him with just our temporal needs, when he wants to meet so much more than just our physical wants?

John 6:26 - "Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill."

Feb. 21, 1109: "Death of Anselm of Canterbury, 76, priest and theologian. Best remembered for his 1099 classic, "Cur Deus Homo" ("Why God Became Man"), Anselm is regarded as the most original thinker in the Catholic Church since Augustine. His most often quoted saying was: 'I believe, in order that I may understand.'" (SLO)

Any student of theology will encounter the works of this great figure of Christian history. His famous quote listed above is completely counter to the underpinning of rationalism which denies anything that cannot be empirically supported. Thus, the rationalist is limited by human experience and perception from seeing the Creator. But God, in His omniscience and omnipotence, is limited by nothing, and can still reach those who do not believe in Him!

Feb. 22, 1805: "Birth of Sarah Flower Adams, English religious writer. Her most enduring verses today comprise the lyrics to the hymn, "Nearer, My God, To Thee." " (SLO)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwLl5nY5WPI

Feb. 23, 155: "Martyrdom of Polycarp, an early Church Father who was a disciple of the Apostle John. Arrested at age 86, Polycarp was burned at the stake for refusing to deny the Christian faith." (SLO)

Feb. 23, 1970: "The Holy Eucharist was distributed by women for the first time in a Roman Catholic service." (SLO)

For more historical events go to the following link-

http://www.studylight.org/his/tich/?d=0217
 
Feb. 24,303 - "The first official Roman edict for the persecution of Christians was issued by Roman Emperor Galerius Valerius Maximianus." (StudyLightOrg)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Jean-L%C3%A9on_G%C3%A9r%C3%B4me_-_The_Christian_Martyrs%27_Last_Prayer_-_Walters_37113.jpg

The persecution that resulted from this edict was savage, bloody and widespread. Should Christians be surprised when they encounter troubles because of their faith and practice?

Jesus said this - "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33), and again in John 15:18 - ""If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first." But the worst hatred that society has shown against God's truth has never been able to extinguish it. Christ sees the trials of his followers - and gives them peace!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b61wsBdqrKM

Feb. 24, 1967 -"Swiss Reformed theologian Karl Barth wrote in a letter: 'The statement that God is dead comes from Nietzsche and has recently been trumpeted abroad by some German and American theologians. But the good Lord has not died of this; He who dwells in the heaven laughs at them.'" (SLO)

Feb. 25, 1570 - "Elizabeth I of England was excommunicated by Pope Pius V for her severe persecution of Roman Catholics in England. (It was the last such judgment made against a reigning monarch by any pope.)" (SLO)

Feb. 25, 1738 - "English revivalist George Whitefield wrote in a letter: 'God, I find, has a people everywhere; Christ has a flock, though but a little flock, in all places.'" (SLO) Everywhere! Jesus Christ has followers everywhere one might travel. One God, one Spirit, one Lord Jesus Christ over all His Church!

Feb. 27, 280 - "Birth of Constantine the Great, the first Roman emperor to be converted (ca. 312) to the Christian faith." (SLO) Constantine was the first Roman emperor to make Christianity the state religion, going beyond the "freedom of religion" that the above-mentioned Roman Emperor Galerius Valerius Maximianus had granted virtually upon his death bed.

Constantine reportedly had a vision of the Cross that commanded him to "in this sign go forth and conquer". The pagan Galerius, however, lifted his ban on Christianity based on a superstitious fear that his life-threatening illness was the result of provoking the Christian God as a result of the vicious persecution he had unleashed upon the Church of Jesus Christ. God moves in mysterious ways . . .

Feb. 27, 1839 - "Scottish clergyman Robert Murray McCheyne wrote in a letter: 'Most of God's people are content to be saved from the hell that is without. They are not so anxious to be saved from the hell that is within.'" (SLO)

Feb. 27, 1938 - "English Bible expositor Arthur W. Pink wrote in a letter: 'Slackness and carelessness are inexcusable in a child of God. He should ever present a model and example of conscientiousness, painstaking care, and exactness.'" (SLO)

March 2, 1934 - "Birthday of Dottie Rambo, contemporary gospel singer and songwriter. She has authored such country gospel favorites as "In the Valley He Restoreth My Soul," "Build My Mansion Next Door to Jesus" and "I Just Came to Talk With You, Lord."" (SLO)

From an elderly Dottie Rambo -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rk7V96LwUw

March 2, 1948 - "U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall prayed: 'O God, forgive the poverty and the pettiness of our prayers. Listen not to our words but to the yearnings of our hearts. Hear beneath our petitions the crying of our need.'"

It is well and good to bring our perceived needs to the Heavenly Father. But a mark of spiritual maturity is in asking that He makes us aware of those needs of which we are unaware and then allowing Him to fill them as He sees best. That knowledge, at times, can make us most uncomfortable . . .

http://www.studylight.org/his/tich/?d=0224
 
Thanks Burnt. I don't always say thanks to the people that do all the work, so again thank you for your dedication.
 
Not that it's much - but you're welcome. I came to greatly enjoy history - especially church history - after taking a couple of courses in it over the past few years.

After having seen how all the major movements fitted together for as far back as is recorded, it gives a better perspective on how we got to where we are today. When looking at some modern day trends and developments, I believe we have reason to be deeply concerned. There is a need to put God front and center in our lives, allowing His truth and grace to influence our actions in this world.

I hope it's not true that "the only thing we learn from history is that we don't learn from history"!

Thanks for reading. And since I'm just a layman in this field, I am always open to correction or additions that present a fuller picture.
 
burnt said:
Not that it's much - but you're welcome. I came to greatly enjoy history - especially church history - after taking a couple of courses in it over the past few years.

After having seen how all the major movements fitted together for as far back as is recorded, it gives a better perspective on how we got to where we are today. When looking at some modern day trends and developments, I believe we have reason to be deeply concerned. There is a need to put God front and center in our lives, allowing His truth and grace to influence our actions in this world.

I hope it's not true that "the only thing we learn from history is that we don't learn from history"!

Thanks for reading. And since I'm just a layman in this field, I am always open to correction or additions that present a fuller picture.
Click to expand...

And another "Thank You'. I always look forward to the posts along with your comments and challenges.
 
Thank you to each for your comments.

March 3, 1931 - "American linguistic pioneer Frank Laubach wrote in a letter: 'If we only let God have his full chance he will break our hearts with the glory of his revelation. That is the privilege which the preacher can have. It is his business to look into the very face of God until he aches with bliss." (StudyLightOrg.)

I'm not sure why Laubach restricted this privilege to preachers only. Is Jesus Christ not honored by the full devotion of all of his followers? How would this "occupation" affect our surroundings if each one who identifies with the name of Christ were to allow Him to daily "...break our hearts with..."?

Then on March 3, 1950, this practice is affirmed when "Trappist monk Thomas Merton wrote in "Sign of Jonas": 'The Christian life...is a continual discovery of Christ in new and unexpected places. And these discoveries are sometimes most profitable when you find him in something you had tended to overlook or even despise.' " (SLO)


March 3, 1794 - "1st performance of Joseph Haydn's 101st Symphony in D" (Scopes System) For those with an appreciation for classical music and art -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJBcp00Y7S8

Again, the spectacle of adult baptism arises when on March 4, 1850 "Future statesman James A. Garfield, at age 18, was "buried with Christ in baptism." Thirty-one years, to the day! after his conversion, Garfield took the oath of office as 20th President of the United States." (SLO) And I still contemplate the mystery of the rite of baptism - so simple, yet so profound, and commanded by Christ "Go ye therefore...baptizing..."

March 5, 1555 - "French-born Swiss reformer John Calvin wrote in a letter to Philip Melanchthon: 'It behooves us to accomplish what God requires of us, even when we are in the greatest despair respecting the results.' " (SLO) - because once again, the Great Commission is far greater than our own perceived contribution! He is stronger . . .

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7YdtfjMAIc

March 5, 1743 - "In Boston, editor Thomas Prince published the first issue of his weekly, "The Christian History." It was the first religious journal published in America." (SLO)


March 6, 1735 - "English revivalist George Whitefield wrote in a letter: 'The renewal of our natures is a work of great importance. It is not to be done in a day. We have not only a new house to build up, but an old one to pull down.'" (SLO)

March 7, 1530 - "King Henry VIII's divorce request is denied by the Pope Henry then declares that he, not the Pope, is supreme head of England's church" (SS)

It raises the question of whether his action was in keeping with the spirit of the Reformation movement that was sweeping the continent at that time? Was Henry VIII unique in his self-accommodating, self-appointment as his own religious authority? The question of personal accountability is as relevant today as it was 500 years ago.


March 9, 1843 - "Scottish clergyman Robert Murray McCheyne wrote in a letter: 'You will never find Jesus so precious as when the world is one vast howling wilderness. Then he is like a rose blooming in the midst of the desolation, a rock rising above the storm.'" (SLO)

And again we hear from Frank Laubach who wrote on March 9, 1930 -
" 'It seems to me...that the very Bible cannot be read as a substitute for meeting God soul to soul and face to face.' " (SLO)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nO4uIyz_d90

"We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne." Hebrews 12:2. (NLT)


http://www.studylight.org/his/tich/?d=0303
 

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