Danang, Vietnam 1969
We had been transported to another dimension. Time in this place moved at a snail’s pace. Hours had now become days; days became weeks; weeks became months….and a year…well a whole year here was incomprehensible.
Home was now only a dream of a place we had once known, and of a way of life, long gone. Yet, all our hopes revolved around this “dream”. Almost every conversation contained something about it. Not one of us could speak of our return to that grand place without a tone of excitement in his voice. But right now, we were only marionettes, dancing out our roles in a play that seemed to have neither plot nor ending. And as we were being manipulated by the “higher ups”, an entire year that could never be regained was being deleted from our lives. Yes, this was indeed a surrealistic place that most of us would never acknowledge as being a part of God’s creation. This sentiment could be found in some of the phrases we used about getting out of this “hole”. We often spoke of when we would return to the “world” or as it was often termed, “the land of the living”.
It was Christmas Eve and this one was unlike any other that most of us had ever experienced. Being ten thousand miles from home had long removed any hope of spending the holidays with our immediate families so we turned to each other in order to have some sense of traditional family structure.
Tomorrow would be special. It would it be Christmas day and many of the duties and details would be swapped about so that most of the guys would have at least part of the day off. After working six and a half, and in many cases seven days a week, even a partial day for leisure would be greatly appreciated, but one thing was certain and that was the Army never shut down; holiday or not.
Christmas Day meant that turkey and dressing would be served in the mess hall, which would be a big change from the meat loaf and some of the then as yet to be determined meats we had consumed over the last few months. Most of us had a couple of boxes of C-rations stashed under our bunks for those times when we just could not stomach one more meal in the mess hall. Even though we never came to love these “meals” that were canned long ago, since they were labeled, we at least knew what we were eating. There were two items that were sometimes packed in the C-rations, either of which a man would almost be willing to fight for. These were fruit cocktail and sliced peaches. If a guy was lucky enough to find a can of either of these in his box of “C’s” he would think he had died and gone to heaven…well almost.
In the weeks earlier, we heard that the North Vietnamese had agreed to a twenty-four hour cease fire, beginning at midnight Christmas Eve and ending at midnight on Christmas day. As doubtful as we were that this would actually come to pass, especially after the promises made for the Tet holiday of 1968, it at least gave us a small hope that we would not get blown away on Christmas day. Yet, as much as we appreciated this at the time, it didn’t make the homesickness any easier to bear.
Most days kept us busy enough to choke back that terrible feeling in the pits of our stomachs, but special occasions like wedding anniversaries, birthdays, Thanksgiving, and especially Christmas could cause a man’s mettle to almost crumble. Tears were often shed, but mostly at night when no one could see them. A pillow became a great aid in muffling the sobs that could be held back no longer. At times, a man’s heart would ache so terribly, he would fear that anyone standing close by might actually hear it groaning from the pain.
In our hooch was a very small artificial tree that had been passed down from the soldiers past who had spent Christmas here. The decorations consisted of maybe a half dozen glass ornaments with much of the paint chipped off, and a short length of frayed tinsel. Charlie Brown’s tree would have looked like a Frazier fir beside this tree. Yet, for this Christmas, it would be our tree and we were glad to have it. There would be no gifts given or received between us. Just to be alive and knowing your brothers “had your back” was gift enough.
By nightfall Christmas Eve, many of the guys in the company had already started making their way from hooch to hooch wishing all a Merry Christmas. Even though our surroundings dictated otherwise, most were still striving to be festive. Some would offer a “drink” or a “sip of cheer” to celebrate, and were usually amiable when a refusal to join in was given.
Not long after the darkness had engulfed the compound, we began to hear the one-o-five and one-five-five rounds being fired off at the “arty” base, located about a half mile inland. This brought us back to the realization that we were still in a war zone and that this war was still very much alive and well. After midnight they quieted down, giving us some hope that the cease fire might actually be working.
The “celebrating” could be heard throughout most of the night. Loud voices and Christmas music from the reel to reel tape players many had set up in their hooches kept any silent moments at bay. In fact there were times when the myriad of sounds from all the different areas became a cacophony. At midnight the entire “berm” became as bright as the day; lit up by the many hand flares that were being popped off by those on guard duty in celebration that Christmas had officially arrived.
By the time Christmas morning had dawned, things had become fairly quiet. Many of the celebrants were still sleeping off their good times from the night before when the CQ came through blowing the whistle to wake us for the day ahead. However, a few of us had jumped out of our cots earlier, just to see what Santa might have left us under the tree, but we quickly found out that the “jolly old elf” didn’t venture into Vietnam, at least not during these times.
After morning formation and our regular daily details and duties were accomplished, many of us spent time relating to each other our personal memories about Christmases past… when we were “alive” back in the “real world”.
Noon came fairly quickly, so we walked the hundred or so yards from our hooch to the mess hall for the turkey and dressing dinner. There were no surprises as to the taste, but at least the Army had thought of us by offering us one of our “back home” traditions.
December in Danang is monsoon season and the chance of rain was ever present. The clouds would keep the temperature down into the high seventies for the day. By late afternoon, a shower of rain had indeed come through, after which the clouds parted for a few minutes allowing the sun to pour out its rays on our little piece of nowhere. This evidently must have awakened the spirits of many, for afterwards, the compound became active again and the celebrating started once more, but not with the fervor of the night before.
Toward the end of the day, a solemnity had settled in around us, as many had actually begun to take time to reflect on how long ago home was and how far from it we still were. Also, there remained in the backs of our minds that the cease fire would soon end and everything, sadly, would begin to slip back to normal.
There had been something very different about this day; something to which we could easily become accustomed, if given the opportunity. It was the quietness that had surrounded us. There was no bombing; no artillery rounds; no mortars, and no rockets. Even the sixteen inch guns on the battleship that sat out in the South China Sea had fallen silent. I can remember hearing very few, if any, of the noises that usually accompanied our daily routine. For a small space of time we were able to experience the sound of peace once more!
All through the day, my mind and heart wandered home; thinking of my family and my young wife I had left behind there, and I knew that while we celebrated our Christmas day, they were all more than likely, in their beds fast asleep.
As the sun made its way behind the ridge of the mountains that lay to our west, the thought lay heavy on my mind, that this same sun that seemed so determined to hide its face from us, would soon be smiling through the window and into the bedroom where my wife’s head was pressing upon her pillow; that this Christmas day that we had seen come to an end, was just beginning for our families. It would be Christmas morning all over again, only this time it would be Christmas in “the land of the “living”. This time it would be Christmas in the “real world”.
Sam Everett
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
Trouble
The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. (Psalms 9:9)
Notice the writer does not say that the Lord will remove all our troubles, or that we will be made to rise up victorious in each and every case. Also note that he is not speaking to those who are walking the flower strewn pathway of ease and joy, but rather is relating to the oppressed; to those who have been hurt, put down, run over, or overlooked. God is speaking through His servant David that not only will He provide us a safe haven, but that He is our safe haven; our hiding place, our fortress of peace during times of adversity.
It doesn’t take long to find that, in the real world, life is not a Hollywood movie or TV series in which all problems are solved in a matter of literal minutes. In the real world, there is not always a happy ending. Anyone who doesn’t understand this is in for terrible disappointments.
It is true that many of life’s problems are not always simple or easy to solve, but we think that they should be. Today, we are living in an “instant” society where we have come to expect a “quick fix” for every unwanted situation we face. We think there should be a “delete” button for any trouble that may have found its way into our lives. This mindset is only encouraged by the hordes of “word faith”, “seeker friendly”, “and prosperity preachers”, that have infiltrated the religious society of today.
Why do we expect that everything must be one hundred percent perfect one hundred percent of the time, and when problems do arise, why do we begin to question God’s love for us? Can we not see or understand that his love was sufficiently manifested when he hung on the cross and took our place in death? Have we become so arrogant as to think that we should never have any troubles or trials in our lives? The truth is, in this life we may be plagued with adversity (Job 14:1).
Even Apostle Paul experienced a lifelong thorn in his flesh (2 Cor 12:7). He says it was given him that he might not be exalted above measure. But listen to what the Lord told him when Paul asked that it might be removed: “My grace is sufficient for thee”, for my strength is made perfect in weakness” As with Paul, could it not be possible, that in God’s plan, we are to bear certain crosses in our lives that we may remain humble or maybe, just maybe, that our lives might be examples to others on how professed Christians should react in the face of adversity? Should not God’s grace be sufficient for us to be able to bear any burden that comes our way?
The fact is; some problems or troubles may be life long, in which we will find no relief until the day we are released from life itself. We don’t hear this taught in Sunday school, or from many of the pulpits, but then again, there are many other biblical truths that seemed to have been conveniently overlooked by our churches.
Keep in mind the text and understand that even though God does not always deliver us from each of our problems, he can and, in many cases, will deliver us in (or during) our problems. Remember Daniel’s night with the lions? He was not delivered from the den of lions, but rather was delivered in the den of lions! As it was with Daniel so it was with the three Hebrew children, they were not delivered from the fire but they were most assuredly delivered while in the fire! Our Lord can provide us peace and contentment even in the worst of situations:
"And prisons would palaces prove"
"If Jesus would dwell with me there"
Let us consider the following scripture; “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world”? If we truly believe this, nothing can remove from us the hope and the happiness found in Christ Jesus our Lord! If not, then this life can very well be a hard and arduous journey.
Sam Everett
Notice the writer does not say that the Lord will remove all our troubles, or that we will be made to rise up victorious in each and every case. Also note that he is not speaking to those who are walking the flower strewn pathway of ease and joy, but rather is relating to the oppressed; to those who have been hurt, put down, run over, or overlooked. God is speaking through His servant David that not only will He provide us a safe haven, but that He is our safe haven; our hiding place, our fortress of peace during times of adversity.
It doesn’t take long to find that, in the real world, life is not a Hollywood movie or TV series in which all problems are solved in a matter of literal minutes. In the real world, there is not always a happy ending. Anyone who doesn’t understand this is in for terrible disappointments.
It is true that many of life’s problems are not always simple or easy to solve, but we think that they should be. Today, we are living in an “instant” society where we have come to expect a “quick fix” for every unwanted situation we face. We think there should be a “delete” button for any trouble that may have found its way into our lives. This mindset is only encouraged by the hordes of “word faith”, “seeker friendly”, “and prosperity preachers”, that have infiltrated the religious society of today.
Why do we expect that everything must be one hundred percent perfect one hundred percent of the time, and when problems do arise, why do we begin to question God’s love for us? Can we not see or understand that his love was sufficiently manifested when he hung on the cross and took our place in death? Have we become so arrogant as to think that we should never have any troubles or trials in our lives? The truth is, in this life we may be plagued with adversity (Job 14:1).
Even Apostle Paul experienced a lifelong thorn in his flesh (2 Cor 12:7). He says it was given him that he might not be exalted above measure. But listen to what the Lord told him when Paul asked that it might be removed: “My grace is sufficient for thee”, for my strength is made perfect in weakness” As with Paul, could it not be possible, that in God’s plan, we are to bear certain crosses in our lives that we may remain humble or maybe, just maybe, that our lives might be examples to others on how professed Christians should react in the face of adversity? Should not God’s grace be sufficient for us to be able to bear any burden that comes our way?
The fact is; some problems or troubles may be life long, in which we will find no relief until the day we are released from life itself. We don’t hear this taught in Sunday school, or from many of the pulpits, but then again, there are many other biblical truths that seemed to have been conveniently overlooked by our churches.
Keep in mind the text and understand that even though God does not always deliver us from each of our problems, he can and, in many cases, will deliver us in (or during) our problems. Remember Daniel’s night with the lions? He was not delivered from the den of lions, but rather was delivered in the den of lions! As it was with Daniel so it was with the three Hebrew children, they were not delivered from the fire but they were most assuredly delivered while in the fire! Our Lord can provide us peace and contentment even in the worst of situations:
"And prisons would palaces prove"
"If Jesus would dwell with me there"
Let us consider the following scripture; “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world”? If we truly believe this, nothing can remove from us the hope and the happiness found in Christ Jesus our Lord! If not, then this life can very well be a hard and arduous journey.
Sam Everett
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
“I Don’t See Any Harm in it!”
These could possibly be the seven most dangerous words that have entered the heart of the child of God. Once these words have been illuminated on the screen of the mind, the slippery slide down the slopes of licentiousness is almost inevitable. This one little phrase could possibly be one of the most proven weapons in Satan’s arsenal, and he uses it with great proficiency.
There can be no argument that we are living in an era of amorality. Many actions that are openly exposed by scripture as sinful are now being second guessed by too many who name the name of Christ. Sadly, many more of these “Christians” have wrapped themselves in the same cloak of indifference as those in the world, no longer finding any harm in most activities that the Bible clearly exposes as sin.
Today, those of us who are considered to be senior citizens can readily remember a time when many of those things, which are now embraced by our society and even our churches were considered not only to be in error, but also to be criminal acts.
We find that modesty no longer finds a home in the minds of Christian men and women. Sin no longer brings shame or even a blushing cheek to most church goers of today. We have secluded our churches by wrapping them in our own fickle belief systems, while keeping our eyes closed to biblical errors that are going on around us. Much like the ostrich with its head in the sand, if we do not see any problems then none actually exist.
Time will not allow us to mention the multitudes of sins, which were once considered as abominations that are now fully acceptable including adultery, fornication, homosexuality and even the taking of the life of a child awaiting its birth.
The problems we face today are manifold. Man’s depravity is not only becoming more manifest, but is being more widely accepted and is now even being encouraged by the masses.
We must ask the question. Where is the church today? Where is the old standard that once condemned sin as recorded in the Bible, along with those who blatantly committed it? Why does the church no longer, “Cry aloud and spare not?” .
We stand much too quiet in many cases; completely silent in others. It is evident that most do not wish to be known as a separated people. Regrettably, too many churches today have taken an apathetic position on biblical standards; too many churches today can find no harm in those things that were once called sin; too many churches today can no longer claim their separation from the world, especially since they have become such a fitting example of it.
Sam Everett
There can be no argument that we are living in an era of amorality. Many actions that are openly exposed by scripture as sinful are now being second guessed by too many who name the name of Christ. Sadly, many more of these “Christians” have wrapped themselves in the same cloak of indifference as those in the world, no longer finding any harm in most activities that the Bible clearly exposes as sin.
Today, those of us who are considered to be senior citizens can readily remember a time when many of those things, which are now embraced by our society and even our churches were considered not only to be in error, but also to be criminal acts.
We find that modesty no longer finds a home in the minds of Christian men and women. Sin no longer brings shame or even a blushing cheek to most church goers of today. We have secluded our churches by wrapping them in our own fickle belief systems, while keeping our eyes closed to biblical errors that are going on around us. Much like the ostrich with its head in the sand, if we do not see any problems then none actually exist.
Time will not allow us to mention the multitudes of sins, which were once considered as abominations that are now fully acceptable including adultery, fornication, homosexuality and even the taking of the life of a child awaiting its birth.
The problems we face today are manifold. Man’s depravity is not only becoming more manifest, but is being more widely accepted and is now even being encouraged by the masses.
We must ask the question. Where is the church today? Where is the old standard that once condemned sin as recorded in the Bible, along with those who blatantly committed it? Why does the church no longer, “Cry aloud and spare not?” .
We stand much too quiet in many cases; completely silent in others. It is evident that most do not wish to be known as a separated people. Regrettably, too many churches today have taken an apathetic position on biblical standards; too many churches today can find no harm in those things that were once called sin; too many churches today can no longer claim their separation from the world, especially since they have become such a fitting example of it.
Sam Everett
Friday, October 14, 2011
Children and Church
There are many churches today that not only allow but encourage the adolescents within their congregations to conduct their own church service, giving them the freedom to “create” their own model of “worship”. No matter how outrageous it may become, as long as the name of the Lord is interjected in it somewhere, it is fully acceptable.
Reading carefully in the bible we find that worship is to be all about our Lord and Savior and has nothing to do with meeting our needs or desires. Worship is for those who understand the true meaning of what Christ has done for His people.
We must understand that most teenagers are still immature, with minds that are still in the developmental stage. It is perfectly natural for them to have the desire to be different; to break out and do it their way.
Many churches now have a time set aside for “praise” before the worship service begins. This is deliberately directed toward the youth within the congregation. During this hour of “praise”, hands and arms may wave high in the air, while swaying with the “music”. Even dancing is not to be ruled out during this time. They react to the loud ear-piercing music that may be presented, with the same zeal as they would at a “new wave” concert, and this, as they believe, is all in the name of God. What these children want and are now receiving is the world and its glittering enticements, with all this being accepted by the church and its Elders. Due to the mix of the old and young, and not wanting to lose the youth, there has arisen what is now called the “contemporary” (for the youth) and “traditional” (for the elderly) worship services.
Look closely and you may find any “worldly” venue within the confines of many of the local churches. As long as the name of the Lord is attached to anything done, it seems that it will be accepted by the masses.
Many churches now have youth pastors that can seemingly better relate to the “needs” of their young people. Many of these “pastors” are not much older than those who are in their charge. They are constantly coming up with better schemes to keep the youth of the church satisfied. They feel that the way in which our forefathers worshipped is now passé, and will never satisfy the “emotional needs” of the youth of today, and we all know the emotions that can come with adolescence.
I trust that we understand that our Lord is not a God of “anything goes” but rather a God of order and purpose. Search the scriptures and you will find that the high priest did not “dance” nor “praise” his way into the “Holiest of All” with the sacrificial blood in hand, but entered quietly, slowly and solemnly, sprinkling blood as he went. We can be assured that all things in his charge were in perfect order. So did our Lord enter into Heaven itself, with his own blood, approaching the Father, not only with, but as the eternal sacrifice, and I refuse to believe that he performed a silly dance before the throne of his Father. But rather stood before him with open hands showing what he suffered to pay the price for the redemption of his people.
No, our God does not recognize many of the foolish implementations that man considers to be worship, but as Christ stated some two thousand years ago, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” Notice it is not in spirit only but also in truth.
Worship is more than emotional outbursts that cause the adrenalin to surge, bringing on a “rush” that most today interpret as the “spirit”. Sadly the “spiritual” barometer of today is the individual feelings encountered during the church service. “Felt good-good service”. “Felt bad-bad service”
Personally, I have been in some wonderful services in which the Lord was honored greatly in song and in the preaching and teaching of his word, while his people (some with tears flowing silently down their cheeks) reflected on how wonderful and gracious he had been in their life; being completely satisfied that our Lord was worshipped and adored.
In the bible, approaching the Lord in worship may be called a solemnity Isaiah 30:29 (from the word solemn). I wonder why the Lord would call it that?
In closing, should we not teach our children who is to be worshipped, and yes, how to worship Him, and if we teach these children to worship in the correct manner, then should not we be expected to do the same?
Keep this in mind. Entertainment alone affords no hope, and satisfies only for the moment! The work of Jesus Christ is our only hope and endures for eternity!
Sam Everett
Reading carefully in the bible we find that worship is to be all about our Lord and Savior and has nothing to do with meeting our needs or desires. Worship is for those who understand the true meaning of what Christ has done for His people.
We must understand that most teenagers are still immature, with minds that are still in the developmental stage. It is perfectly natural for them to have the desire to be different; to break out and do it their way.
Many churches now have a time set aside for “praise” before the worship service begins. This is deliberately directed toward the youth within the congregation. During this hour of “praise”, hands and arms may wave high in the air, while swaying with the “music”. Even dancing is not to be ruled out during this time. They react to the loud ear-piercing music that may be presented, with the same zeal as they would at a “new wave” concert, and this, as they believe, is all in the name of God. What these children want and are now receiving is the world and its glittering enticements, with all this being accepted by the church and its Elders. Due to the mix of the old and young, and not wanting to lose the youth, there has arisen what is now called the “contemporary” (for the youth) and “traditional” (for the elderly) worship services.
Look closely and you may find any “worldly” venue within the confines of many of the local churches. As long as the name of the Lord is attached to anything done, it seems that it will be accepted by the masses.
Many churches now have youth pastors that can seemingly better relate to the “needs” of their young people. Many of these “pastors” are not much older than those who are in their charge. They are constantly coming up with better schemes to keep the youth of the church satisfied. They feel that the way in which our forefathers worshipped is now passé, and will never satisfy the “emotional needs” of the youth of today, and we all know the emotions that can come with adolescence.
I trust that we understand that our Lord is not a God of “anything goes” but rather a God of order and purpose. Search the scriptures and you will find that the high priest did not “dance” nor “praise” his way into the “Holiest of All” with the sacrificial blood in hand, but entered quietly, slowly and solemnly, sprinkling blood as he went. We can be assured that all things in his charge were in perfect order. So did our Lord enter into Heaven itself, with his own blood, approaching the Father, not only with, but as the eternal sacrifice, and I refuse to believe that he performed a silly dance before the throne of his Father. But rather stood before him with open hands showing what he suffered to pay the price for the redemption of his people.
No, our God does not recognize many of the foolish implementations that man considers to be worship, but as Christ stated some two thousand years ago, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” Notice it is not in spirit only but also in truth.
Worship is more than emotional outbursts that cause the adrenalin to surge, bringing on a “rush” that most today interpret as the “spirit”. Sadly the “spiritual” barometer of today is the individual feelings encountered during the church service. “Felt good-good service”. “Felt bad-bad service”
Personally, I have been in some wonderful services in which the Lord was honored greatly in song and in the preaching and teaching of his word, while his people (some with tears flowing silently down their cheeks) reflected on how wonderful and gracious he had been in their life; being completely satisfied that our Lord was worshipped and adored.
In the bible, approaching the Lord in worship may be called a solemnity Isaiah 30:29 (from the word solemn). I wonder why the Lord would call it that?
In closing, should we not teach our children who is to be worshipped, and yes, how to worship Him, and if we teach these children to worship in the correct manner, then should not we be expected to do the same?
Keep this in mind. Entertainment alone affords no hope, and satisfies only for the moment! The work of Jesus Christ is our only hope and endures for eternity!
Sam Everett
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
We Love America
Written in the fall of 2010
This was the theme of the daycare program the night my grand-nephew graduated his four year old pre-kindergarten class. Each child was dressed as one of the many historical American heroes; Paul Revere, George Washington, Betsy Ross, our great frontiersmen and women all the way up to today’s soldiers from each of the five branches of our military. The children were precious and not one missed their lines. Yet, as I watched I grieved for their loss; for the country they would never know.
Having no ability to read minds, I would never try to speak for anyone else, but as for me, I wept though most of the evening. Each time the children sang one of our country’s patriotic songs: “America the Beautiful” or “God Bless America” for instance, I could not hold back the tears, for I knew that these tots would never know or experience the America in which I grew up. They would never view the way in which true Americans would stand straight and tall, placing their hand over their heart any time our national anthem was played. They would never really understand the meaning behind this beautiful patriotic song or the message that it sings of our country, and that it just not a tune that is played before some sporting event. They would never be taught the significance of our flag waving high above the landscape, at least not if they should go on to attend public school. Neither would they be taught in public school that our country was founded on Christianity and that most of the laws we now adhere to, came directly from the bible rather than being invented by some coven of politicians.
That night I wept for a country lost. I realize that many may be quick to say that I am a skeptic or maybe a naysayer, but please hear me out. Our country is no longer the country that was established some two hundred and fifty years ago, by a group of so called “rebels” of that day who hated tyranny and loved freedom. But the freedom they longed for was a simple freedom. It was freedom established and protected by the law, not freedom from the law. They sought freedom of religion not freedom from religion.
Although it is impossible to pinpoint the exact moment our country began to expire, as we look into the mid eighteen hundreds, we see the federal government as it began its deliberate overthrow of the sovereignty of the then thirty-three states, telling them in no uncertain terms that they could no longer claim those rights on which they were founded. The federal government had seemingly developed a loss of memory (as it still does) that it was a central government created to protect the rights and laws of these states. The uprising that followed was just as justifiable, in the minds of those affected, as the revolution that occurred some ninety years earlier. This was only one of the many mortal wounds that would be delivered to America.
Over the next one hundred years many adverse events would gnaw away at our country’s infrastructure; the Spanish American War, World War I, Prohibition, the Great Depression and World War II to name only a few. Yet, as terrible as these things were, they could not be compared to the events that would begin to occur halfway through the twentieth century.
Let us fast forward to the nineteen sixties.
In 1963 the Supreme Court sided with Madeline Murray O’Hare (a staunch atheist) that her son’s civil rights were violated by his being subjected to the daily devotional and bible reading in his school. Not long after, with the ACLU close at hand and pushing the issue, devotional and prayer were removed from public school. The cry from the liberal camp had now become “separation of church and state”. Sadly, most Americans to this day, still believe that this was written into the constitution. It was not, nor has there ever been any amendment that makes this statement. Yet, we see that Christianity, at least in the public arena, had now been interpreted as unconstitutional. This decision crippled our country to the point from which it would never be able to fully recover.
Later on in this same decade, the United States witnessed a cultural revolution, the likes of which had never been seen in any other civilized nation in the world. The theme was “free love”. What this meant was that every imaginable sexual perversion was not only being accepted, but sadly was being encouraged and preached by the masses, undermining the very moral fiber upon which our culture had been created. A few years later, the so called “closet” door was opened and out poured the gay and lesbian populace. That, which at one time was considered perverted and shameful was now being boasted and thrown in the face of any conservative organization (especially the church) that would dare stand against this lifestyle. Factor into this mix the purely political war in Vietnam along with the people’s apathy toward the lives that had been sacrificed to that war and a few more nails are driven into the coffin.
Sadly, in 1973, the United States Supreme Court made a landmark decision in “Roe vs. Wade” that would remove any fiber of humanity that we might have had left. It was on the subject of abortion. Almost every state already had laws in place, concerning abortion. Rape, incest, extreme deformity of the fetus, or danger of death to the mother was written into their laws as the only legal reasons for aborting a child. Suddenly, each of these laws, which had been passed by the individual states, had also, at the stroke of a pen, been negated. So, we find that the state’s rights once again were not only ignored, but also abolished, having been overthrown by the mighty Supreme Court. Our Federal Government had now taken the stand that it was a woman’s constitutional right to make the choice whether or not her unborn child would live, regardless of the circumstances. Any female could now choose to eliminate her “mistake” on the simple premise that the conception of the child was an accident or that it would become a terrible inconvenience if he or she was allowed to be born.
These, along with many other extreme decisions made by our high court would continue to grow and fester, morphing into ungodly precedents that, much like the Frankenstein monster, could no longer be controlled.
Then just last year I stared at the TV screen in absolute horror and total disbelief. The scene before me was surrealistic. I was looking at thousands of foreign invaders taking to the streets of America, protesting the laws that were then in place to protect our land and its people. These people were carrying their own country’s flags in defiance of our government. None of these individuals had any right whatsoever to even be within the borders of this country. These aliens, according to our law, were enemies of the state, people from foreign lands who, again, had invaded our country and now they are on national TV thumbing their noses at our government and daring anyone to do anything about it. Even more disturbing was the fact that many of our own citizens or should I say traitors were marching alongside them. Sadly, nothing, absolutely nothing was done to stop this insanity. Our law enforcement agencies, who had taken an oath to preserve our Constitution and to protect the people of our country, had been given specific orders to allow these invaders to have free reign.
Finally, on Sunday, March 21, 2010 it seems as if the last nail may have been driven into the coffin of “free” America, for on this date, any power that might have remained in the hands of the people was taken away by a gang of egotistical, maniacal, hedonistic politicians, who totally ignored the screams of each of their constituents, deciding that “We the People” would no longer have any say or bearing in the way our country should go. They had decided, against the will of the majority of Americans, that socialism would now be our new order of government. The “Change” that was promised during the last election had finally come. Our fate had been sealed.
Weep with me if you will, for as I stated before, our grandchildren will never know this great country we once called “our country”. This term can no longer be used, for she now lies in the hands of a band of neo-socialists who cover their true identity by hiding behind such monikers as “Supreme Court Justice”, “Senator”, “Representative”, and the most frightening of all, “Mr. President”!
God bless America; may “She” rest in peace, but I seriously doubt this is going to be the case.
Sam Everett
Having no ability to read minds, I would never try to speak for anyone else, but as for me, I wept though most of the evening. Each time the children sang one of our country’s patriotic songs: “America the Beautiful” or “God Bless America” for instance, I could not hold back the tears, for I knew that these tots would never know or experience the America in which I grew up. They would never view the way in which true Americans would stand straight and tall, placing their hand over their heart any time our national anthem was played. They would never really understand the meaning behind this beautiful patriotic song or the message that it sings of our country, and that it just not a tune that is played before some sporting event. They would never be taught the significance of our flag waving high above the landscape, at least not if they should go on to attend public school. Neither would they be taught in public school that our country was founded on Christianity and that most of the laws we now adhere to, came directly from the bible rather than being invented by some coven of politicians.
That night I wept for a country lost. I realize that many may be quick to say that I am a skeptic or maybe a naysayer, but please hear me out. Our country is no longer the country that was established some two hundred and fifty years ago, by a group of so called “rebels” of that day who hated tyranny and loved freedom. But the freedom they longed for was a simple freedom. It was freedom established and protected by the law, not freedom from the law. They sought freedom of religion not freedom from religion.
Although it is impossible to pinpoint the exact moment our country began to expire, as we look into the mid eighteen hundreds, we see the federal government as it began its deliberate overthrow of the sovereignty of the then thirty-three states, telling them in no uncertain terms that they could no longer claim those rights on which they were founded. The federal government had seemingly developed a loss of memory (as it still does) that it was a central government created to protect the rights and laws of these states. The uprising that followed was just as justifiable, in the minds of those affected, as the revolution that occurred some ninety years earlier. This was only one of the many mortal wounds that would be delivered to America.
Over the next one hundred years many adverse events would gnaw away at our country’s infrastructure; the Spanish American War, World War I, Prohibition, the Great Depression and World War II to name only a few. Yet, as terrible as these things were, they could not be compared to the events that would begin to occur halfway through the twentieth century.
Let us fast forward to the nineteen sixties.
In 1963 the Supreme Court sided with Madeline Murray O’Hare (a staunch atheist) that her son’s civil rights were violated by his being subjected to the daily devotional and bible reading in his school. Not long after, with the ACLU close at hand and pushing the issue, devotional and prayer were removed from public school. The cry from the liberal camp had now become “separation of church and state”. Sadly, most Americans to this day, still believe that this was written into the constitution. It was not, nor has there ever been any amendment that makes this statement. Yet, we see that Christianity, at least in the public arena, had now been interpreted as unconstitutional. This decision crippled our country to the point from which it would never be able to fully recover.
Later on in this same decade, the United States witnessed a cultural revolution, the likes of which had never been seen in any other civilized nation in the world. The theme was “free love”. What this meant was that every imaginable sexual perversion was not only being accepted, but sadly was being encouraged and preached by the masses, undermining the very moral fiber upon which our culture had been created. A few years later, the so called “closet” door was opened and out poured the gay and lesbian populace. That, which at one time was considered perverted and shameful was now being boasted and thrown in the face of any conservative organization (especially the church) that would dare stand against this lifestyle. Factor into this mix the purely political war in Vietnam along with the people’s apathy toward the lives that had been sacrificed to that war and a few more nails are driven into the coffin.
Sadly, in 1973, the United States Supreme Court made a landmark decision in “Roe vs. Wade” that would remove any fiber of humanity that we might have had left. It was on the subject of abortion. Almost every state already had laws in place, concerning abortion. Rape, incest, extreme deformity of the fetus, or danger of death to the mother was written into their laws as the only legal reasons for aborting a child. Suddenly, each of these laws, which had been passed by the individual states, had also, at the stroke of a pen, been negated. So, we find that the state’s rights once again were not only ignored, but also abolished, having been overthrown by the mighty Supreme Court. Our Federal Government had now taken the stand that it was a woman’s constitutional right to make the choice whether or not her unborn child would live, regardless of the circumstances. Any female could now choose to eliminate her “mistake” on the simple premise that the conception of the child was an accident or that it would become a terrible inconvenience if he or she was allowed to be born.
These, along with many other extreme decisions made by our high court would continue to grow and fester, morphing into ungodly precedents that, much like the Frankenstein monster, could no longer be controlled.
Then just last year I stared at the TV screen in absolute horror and total disbelief. The scene before me was surrealistic. I was looking at thousands of foreign invaders taking to the streets of America, protesting the laws that were then in place to protect our land and its people. These people were carrying their own country’s flags in defiance of our government. None of these individuals had any right whatsoever to even be within the borders of this country. These aliens, according to our law, were enemies of the state, people from foreign lands who, again, had invaded our country and now they are on national TV thumbing their noses at our government and daring anyone to do anything about it. Even more disturbing was the fact that many of our own citizens or should I say traitors were marching alongside them. Sadly, nothing, absolutely nothing was done to stop this insanity. Our law enforcement agencies, who had taken an oath to preserve our Constitution and to protect the people of our country, had been given specific orders to allow these invaders to have free reign.
Finally, on Sunday, March 21, 2010 it seems as if the last nail may have been driven into the coffin of “free” America, for on this date, any power that might have remained in the hands of the people was taken away by a gang of egotistical, maniacal, hedonistic politicians, who totally ignored the screams of each of their constituents, deciding that “We the People” would no longer have any say or bearing in the way our country should go. They had decided, against the will of the majority of Americans, that socialism would now be our new order of government. The “Change” that was promised during the last election had finally come. Our fate had been sealed.
Weep with me if you will, for as I stated before, our grandchildren will never know this great country we once called “our country”. This term can no longer be used, for she now lies in the hands of a band of neo-socialists who cover their true identity by hiding behind such monikers as “Supreme Court Justice”, “Senator”, “Representative”, and the most frightening of all, “Mr. President”!
God bless America; may “She” rest in peace, but I seriously doubt this is going to be the case.
Sam Everett
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Going Through The Motions
Prayer as defined in Webster’s 1828 Dictionary is as follows:
“In worship, a solemn address to the Supreme Being, consisting of adoration, or an expression of our sense of God's glorious perfections, confession of our sins, supplication for mercy and forgiveness, intercession for blessings on others, and thanksgiving, or an expression of gratitude to God for his mercies and benefits. A prayer however may consist of a single petition, and it may be extemporaneous, written or printed”.
In Matthew 6: verses 9-13 Jesus gives us the example of how we are to pray. Anyone who has attended the Christian church for any space of time, or has been raised with some type of Christian background most likely knows this “model” prayer by heart. What many do not know is that in the previous verses (Matthew 6: 5-8), we find Jesus teaching us how we are not to pray. It is evident by this scripture, that learning how we are not to pray carries just as much weight as learning how we are to pray.
Although we are taught by scripture to pray and are urged to ask God for those things that we truly need and to petition Him for the needs of others, prayer is never to be used as a wish list in order to satisfy our own wants or lusts (James 4:3). No, prayer, as defined above, is a communion with God; a means by which man can honor Him as Savior, Sovereign and King. I must believe that He is pleased with our acknowledgement of Him as our Heavenly Father. Our coming to Him in prayer is the confirmation of our belief and trust in Him. We also realize that to pray to God is to admit our weaknesses and to show our submissiveness to Him; acknowledging by our very actions that we are not in control; admitting God to be the greater; we to be the lesser.
Taking into consideration many of the public prayers of today, it seems that many have not read the scripture on how we are not to pray.
Not long ago, I was standing at the head of the casket of one of my best friends, I had just led the family in prayer before they were to come around and view their loved one for the last time. I watched as a young lady approached the open casket then stopped directly in front of the bier. She very quietly stretched her arms out to her front, turning her cupped hands upward. She slowly closed her eyes, lifted her face toward the ceiling, and then began to softly sway from side to side; mouthing words while making no sound. I have no doubt that this is the manner in which she had been taught to pray, and even if it was not her intention, she brought much attention to herself. As she was “acting out” her prayer, I couldn’t help but think:
• Does God take into consideration the physical gestures of those who may be offering prayer?
• Do outward manifestations of the flesh alter the outcome of the petition being offered?
• Is it necessary to have a viewing or listening audience in order for our prayers to be effectual?
Having attended numerous religious services during my lifetime, I have seen and heard some very interesting things by those who might be leading a public prayer. I have seen faces strained and twisted into strange contortions, as if they were trying to “force” their prayers into the presence of God. I have listened to others as their voices would grow louder and louder until their words became almost unintelligible. Then there were others who would offer long, redundant and often tiresome prayers.
Evidently, the mindset of many is that all these types of behavior are manifestations of God’s Spirit or that God recognizes physical expressions, the loudest voices, or longest petitions.
Sound familiar? It should!
Let us read Matthew 6: 5-8 once more: (emphasis always mine)
5. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.
6. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Thought provoking isn’t it?
Sam Everett
“In worship, a solemn address to the Supreme Being, consisting of adoration, or an expression of our sense of God's glorious perfections, confession of our sins, supplication for mercy and forgiveness, intercession for blessings on others, and thanksgiving, or an expression of gratitude to God for his mercies and benefits. A prayer however may consist of a single petition, and it may be extemporaneous, written or printed”.
In Matthew 6: verses 9-13 Jesus gives us the example of how we are to pray. Anyone who has attended the Christian church for any space of time, or has been raised with some type of Christian background most likely knows this “model” prayer by heart. What many do not know is that in the previous verses (Matthew 6: 5-8), we find Jesus teaching us how we are not to pray. It is evident by this scripture, that learning how we are not to pray carries just as much weight as learning how we are to pray.
Although we are taught by scripture to pray and are urged to ask God for those things that we truly need and to petition Him for the needs of others, prayer is never to be used as a wish list in order to satisfy our own wants or lusts (James 4:3). No, prayer, as defined above, is a communion with God; a means by which man can honor Him as Savior, Sovereign and King. I must believe that He is pleased with our acknowledgement of Him as our Heavenly Father. Our coming to Him in prayer is the confirmation of our belief and trust in Him. We also realize that to pray to God is to admit our weaknesses and to show our submissiveness to Him; acknowledging by our very actions that we are not in control; admitting God to be the greater; we to be the lesser.
Taking into consideration many of the public prayers of today, it seems that many have not read the scripture on how we are not to pray.
Not long ago, I was standing at the head of the casket of one of my best friends, I had just led the family in prayer before they were to come around and view their loved one for the last time. I watched as a young lady approached the open casket then stopped directly in front of the bier. She very quietly stretched her arms out to her front, turning her cupped hands upward. She slowly closed her eyes, lifted her face toward the ceiling, and then began to softly sway from side to side; mouthing words while making no sound. I have no doubt that this is the manner in which she had been taught to pray, and even if it was not her intention, she brought much attention to herself. As she was “acting out” her prayer, I couldn’t help but think:
• Does God take into consideration the physical gestures of those who may be offering prayer?
• Do outward manifestations of the flesh alter the outcome of the petition being offered?
• Is it necessary to have a viewing or listening audience in order for our prayers to be effectual?
Having attended numerous religious services during my lifetime, I have seen and heard some very interesting things by those who might be leading a public prayer. I have seen faces strained and twisted into strange contortions, as if they were trying to “force” their prayers into the presence of God. I have listened to others as their voices would grow louder and louder until their words became almost unintelligible. Then there were others who would offer long, redundant and often tiresome prayers.
Evidently, the mindset of many is that all these types of behavior are manifestations of God’s Spirit or that God recognizes physical expressions, the loudest voices, or longest petitions.
Sound familiar? It should!
Let us read Matthew 6: 5-8 once more: (emphasis always mine)
5. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.
6. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Thought provoking isn’t it?
Sam Everett
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Catering Church
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost Romans 14:17
As we consider the text above, we find that God’s kingdom is not based on those things that may satisfy the flesh, but is rather established upon righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. In other words, we cannot depend on tangible items for our contentment or happiness, but rather in those spiritual things, which can be found only in our belief in, and our dependency on Jesus Christ.
However, many churches today have either never ran across this scripture, or have forgotten it altogether, since they are using any and all means available to cater to the fleshly wants and desires of their congregations, and these congregants, like the newly hatched birds with mouths wide open, are anxiously expecting to be catered to. These are those who are always looking to experience another emotional event; ever anticipating some heightened sense of pleasure or enjoyment, yet sadly, they are never able to come to the understanding of true joy. They are searching for something, anything that will satiate their innumerable wants and desires. Today’s “church” has stepped in, attempting to become the sole provider for all their cravings. It has assumed the same role as that of a fretting mother trying to content her bratty child.
How, we may ask, did it come to this? The answer is not overly complicated when we consider that these things did not occur overnight but rather over a period of many years. We find that over the decades, many churches discovered that emotionalism, fueled by entertainment, could be used as a potent drug to keep their membership deceived into a false sense of spiritual health and well being. However, of late, many have come to realize that this was only a temporary fix. For, much like any other addiction, larger and larger “doses” are required to sustain the same emotional “high”, and since true worship was never designed for entertainment purposes, these churches had no recourse but to turn to the world’s devices in an attempt to fill the void in these empty hearts. In doing this, they have all but removed their identity as a true church of Christ, for we find that a true church is to be a called out, separated and sanctified band of people. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you” (2 Cor 6: 17)
On the other end of the spectrum, are the “old time religionists”, who, much like the modern church, also turned their attention to emotionalism to capture the hearts and minds of the people. However, unlike the more modern church, this band of people sees the “world” and those entertainments that it may afford as deadly poison offered at the extended hand of Satan himself. They refuse to alter their time honored emotional methodology, which they have come to understand to be the Spirit, and they, not willing to change this mindset, are now facing a grave dilemma. They are finding, as did the “new age” church that emotions have a tendency to run their course, much like grief after the loss of a loved one. However, they still refuse to bring in the world’s programs, which could possibly be the only hope of growing their ranks. Therefore, once the emotional experience has become passé (as in the winning touchdown brings us screaming to our feet, but after the twentieth replay we may well change the channel, passé) they have nowhere else to go, and their numbers have begun to dwindle. Welcome to the era of the “modern” (modern in this case is that which has arisen over the last two centuries) church, where but a few know the true meaning of worship.
Sadly, the average “Christian” of today is not far from claiming the title of “hedonist”. Self pleasure and or gratification are the underlying reasons for attending church services. And why should we be surprised. After all, is this not what is taught from the pulpit today? “God wants everyone to be happy and to feel good” has become the main theme of most services. After hearing this preached week after week, most have come to expect that God’s purpose for existence is for their own happiness and complete fulfillment in their lives. And we cannot forget to mention that, in their minds, it is His duty to provide them with full contentment, even though we find in Apostle Paul’s Philippian letter that contentment is a learning process dependant entirely upon the attitude of the child of God. (Philippians 4:11)
The so called gospel message of most churches today is not the gospel of Jesus Christ at all, but is nothing more than just one more motivational speech, whose sole purpose is to incite or excite the psyche of the hearer; to build the ego and self worth of the individual. All the while, the news of the efficacious and substitutionary death of Jesus Christ has become secondary, if even mentioned at all.
True worship and adoration of Jesus Christ is very seldom considered in today’s religious gatherings. How many today are “going to church” just to receive a blessing. This is not the statement of a true worshipper. Those who understand this would never think such a thing much less speak it. Those who grasp the true meaning of worship also understand that it is not about us, but all about Jesus Christ and what He has done.
He alone is worthy to receive honor glory and praise and blessing (Rev 4:11 and Rev 5:12).
Sam Everett
As we consider the text above, we find that God’s kingdom is not based on those things that may satisfy the flesh, but is rather established upon righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. In other words, we cannot depend on tangible items for our contentment or happiness, but rather in those spiritual things, which can be found only in our belief in, and our dependency on Jesus Christ.
However, many churches today have either never ran across this scripture, or have forgotten it altogether, since they are using any and all means available to cater to the fleshly wants and desires of their congregations, and these congregants, like the newly hatched birds with mouths wide open, are anxiously expecting to be catered to. These are those who are always looking to experience another emotional event; ever anticipating some heightened sense of pleasure or enjoyment, yet sadly, they are never able to come to the understanding of true joy. They are searching for something, anything that will satiate their innumerable wants and desires. Today’s “church” has stepped in, attempting to become the sole provider for all their cravings. It has assumed the same role as that of a fretting mother trying to content her bratty child.
How, we may ask, did it come to this? The answer is not overly complicated when we consider that these things did not occur overnight but rather over a period of many years. We find that over the decades, many churches discovered that emotionalism, fueled by entertainment, could be used as a potent drug to keep their membership deceived into a false sense of spiritual health and well being. However, of late, many have come to realize that this was only a temporary fix. For, much like any other addiction, larger and larger “doses” are required to sustain the same emotional “high”, and since true worship was never designed for entertainment purposes, these churches had no recourse but to turn to the world’s devices in an attempt to fill the void in these empty hearts. In doing this, they have all but removed their identity as a true church of Christ, for we find that a true church is to be a called out, separated and sanctified band of people. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you” (2 Cor 6: 17)
On the other end of the spectrum, are the “old time religionists”, who, much like the modern church, also turned their attention to emotionalism to capture the hearts and minds of the people. However, unlike the more modern church, this band of people sees the “world” and those entertainments that it may afford as deadly poison offered at the extended hand of Satan himself. They refuse to alter their time honored emotional methodology, which they have come to understand to be the Spirit, and they, not willing to change this mindset, are now facing a grave dilemma. They are finding, as did the “new age” church that emotions have a tendency to run their course, much like grief after the loss of a loved one. However, they still refuse to bring in the world’s programs, which could possibly be the only hope of growing their ranks. Therefore, once the emotional experience has become passé (as in the winning touchdown brings us screaming to our feet, but after the twentieth replay we may well change the channel, passé) they have nowhere else to go, and their numbers have begun to dwindle. Welcome to the era of the “modern” (modern in this case is that which has arisen over the last two centuries) church, where but a few know the true meaning of worship.
Sadly, the average “Christian” of today is not far from claiming the title of “hedonist”. Self pleasure and or gratification are the underlying reasons for attending church services. And why should we be surprised. After all, is this not what is taught from the pulpit today? “God wants everyone to be happy and to feel good” has become the main theme of most services. After hearing this preached week after week, most have come to expect that God’s purpose for existence is for their own happiness and complete fulfillment in their lives. And we cannot forget to mention that, in their minds, it is His duty to provide them with full contentment, even though we find in Apostle Paul’s Philippian letter that contentment is a learning process dependant entirely upon the attitude of the child of God. (Philippians 4:11)
The so called gospel message of most churches today is not the gospel of Jesus Christ at all, but is nothing more than just one more motivational speech, whose sole purpose is to incite or excite the psyche of the hearer; to build the ego and self worth of the individual. All the while, the news of the efficacious and substitutionary death of Jesus Christ has become secondary, if even mentioned at all.
True worship and adoration of Jesus Christ is very seldom considered in today’s religious gatherings. How many today are “going to church” just to receive a blessing. This is not the statement of a true worshipper. Those who understand this would never think such a thing much less speak it. Those who grasp the true meaning of worship also understand that it is not about us, but all about Jesus Christ and what He has done.
He alone is worthy to receive honor glory and praise and blessing (Rev 4:11 and Rev 5:12).
Sam Everett
Monday, March 14, 2011
John
John stands in the dank darkness of a cold prison cell, staring intently at the floor of his recently acquired home. He shivers from the dampness that has invaded this tiny cubicle. The sound of the dripping water that has condensed on the rock walls echoes around the room, making it seem even colder. His camel skin coat and leather undergarment are all that keeps him for developing hypothermia. He stomach growls from hunger. Yet, in order to stay true to his vows, he cannot accept any food that may be offered.
He is considering his short life of only thirty years, reflecting mostly on his preaching and the messages he has delivered to those who would hear him. He realizes that he is not the most popular man on the block. He doesn’t wear the robes of a priest. His hair is long and matted. His beard is untrimmed. His appearance causes many to walk away, shaking their heads. Yet those who see past his outward appearance and are actually listening to his words are hearing unbelievable things. He is speaking of the messiah, and he is telling them that he has arrived.
John has never tried to please anyone. He has never compromised himself by conforming to the traditions of the Jews, but rather has kept himself the nazarite he was set aside to be. The reason he is in this place is because he spoke out against sin: holding firm to the law of God rather than bowing in agreement to the error of his earthly superiors.
It is not long after he baptizes his beloved kinship that he finds himself sitting in this isle of loneliness. Since arriving, he has been hearing news of his dear cousin; it seems that Jesus is becoming more controversial each day. Many believe that he is indeed the “One”. Others deny him vehemently, saying that he is using only smoke and shadows to bring about his trickery. Some are even saying that he has become a friend to non-Jews and sinners. Many in powerful positions are livid because he has the audacity to tell many of his followers that he has forgiven their sins.
John sends word to his disciples to come and visit him in prison. Two of them come to hear his request. They are not bidden that they might ask Jesus to come and secure his release. He knows his fate and does not fret over it. His message to be carried to his precious savior is in the form of a simple question.
“Go ask Jesus if he is the chosen one that is to come, or do we look for another?”
John does not ask this because he is riddled with doubt about Jesus being the Christ. All doubts of his cousin’s deity vanished when he bought him out of the water at Jordan; when he saw the dove and heard the voice from heaven. No, this was not the case at all. John has no doubt as to the “plan” or the creator of the plan, but in order to reassure these followers that they will not be left alone after his departure, he wants them to see and understand for themselves that his introduction of the Shepherd was indeed a worthy tribute; that this is indeed the Lamb of God.
Without hesitation the two men exit the dungeon and begin to make their way to Jesus. It doesn’t take long to find him. Everyone has been keeping a close eye on this man.
As they work their way through the crowd finally finding an opening, they see Him. He is not at all surprised by their presence. In fact, He has been awaiting their arrival. However, He ignores them for a few minutes allowing them time to watch him at work. After a few minutes, they come close and ask the question, verbatim, that John has sent them to bear.
Jesus stands quietly and very intently listens to what they have to say. When they have finished he looks over his shoulder at the crowd behind him, moving his head quickly toward them as if to point them out and then very deliberately gives his answer.
“Tell John what you have seen here today”. “Tell him of those things that these poor outcasts have received at my hand.” Tell him of the wondrous miracles you have seen; tell him that those who are poor in spirit have received hope through the gospel.”
“Be sure to tell him that all he preached has now come to fruition”. “Tell him that he can depart in peace knowing that the Lamb of whom he spoke is now doing all the works that he has come to do”! “Tell him that God indeed lives with men”
The Messengers turn and walk away. Jesus watches them as they fade into the crowd. His heart aches at the thought of what John must face. After a moment, He slowly turns to those who are watching the scene that unfolds before them. It is at this point Jesus begins to give the greatest tribute ever breathed across the lips of God to this dear man that was born of his mother’s sister.
John eagerly awaits the news. His heart begins to pound as his disciples appear at his cell door. There is a feeling of both relief and elation as John relives, in his mind, the accounts that his friends relate to him of all they have seen with their own eyes. He is completely satisfied with the answer they bring. He knows that those who have followed him now know what he meant when he pointed to Jesus and said, “Behold the Lamb of God”.
John is humbled, yet thankful, that it was he who was chosen to hold open the door as God stepped through it into humanity.
Sam Everett
He is considering his short life of only thirty years, reflecting mostly on his preaching and the messages he has delivered to those who would hear him. He realizes that he is not the most popular man on the block. He doesn’t wear the robes of a priest. His hair is long and matted. His beard is untrimmed. His appearance causes many to walk away, shaking their heads. Yet those who see past his outward appearance and are actually listening to his words are hearing unbelievable things. He is speaking of the messiah, and he is telling them that he has arrived.
John has never tried to please anyone. He has never compromised himself by conforming to the traditions of the Jews, but rather has kept himself the nazarite he was set aside to be. The reason he is in this place is because he spoke out against sin: holding firm to the law of God rather than bowing in agreement to the error of his earthly superiors.
It is not long after he baptizes his beloved kinship that he finds himself sitting in this isle of loneliness. Since arriving, he has been hearing news of his dear cousin; it seems that Jesus is becoming more controversial each day. Many believe that he is indeed the “One”. Others deny him vehemently, saying that he is using only smoke and shadows to bring about his trickery. Some are even saying that he has become a friend to non-Jews and sinners. Many in powerful positions are livid because he has the audacity to tell many of his followers that he has forgiven their sins.
John sends word to his disciples to come and visit him in prison. Two of them come to hear his request. They are not bidden that they might ask Jesus to come and secure his release. He knows his fate and does not fret over it. His message to be carried to his precious savior is in the form of a simple question.
“Go ask Jesus if he is the chosen one that is to come, or do we look for another?”
John does not ask this because he is riddled with doubt about Jesus being the Christ. All doubts of his cousin’s deity vanished when he bought him out of the water at Jordan; when he saw the dove and heard the voice from heaven. No, this was not the case at all. John has no doubt as to the “plan” or the creator of the plan, but in order to reassure these followers that they will not be left alone after his departure, he wants them to see and understand for themselves that his introduction of the Shepherd was indeed a worthy tribute; that this is indeed the Lamb of God.
Without hesitation the two men exit the dungeon and begin to make their way to Jesus. It doesn’t take long to find him. Everyone has been keeping a close eye on this man.
As they work their way through the crowd finally finding an opening, they see Him. He is not at all surprised by their presence. In fact, He has been awaiting their arrival. However, He ignores them for a few minutes allowing them time to watch him at work. After a few minutes, they come close and ask the question, verbatim, that John has sent them to bear.
Jesus stands quietly and very intently listens to what they have to say. When they have finished he looks over his shoulder at the crowd behind him, moving his head quickly toward them as if to point them out and then very deliberately gives his answer.
“Tell John what you have seen here today”. “Tell him of those things that these poor outcasts have received at my hand.” Tell him of the wondrous miracles you have seen; tell him that those who are poor in spirit have received hope through the gospel.”
“Be sure to tell him that all he preached has now come to fruition”. “Tell him that he can depart in peace knowing that the Lamb of whom he spoke is now doing all the works that he has come to do”! “Tell him that God indeed lives with men”
The Messengers turn and walk away. Jesus watches them as they fade into the crowd. His heart aches at the thought of what John must face. After a moment, He slowly turns to those who are watching the scene that unfolds before them. It is at this point Jesus begins to give the greatest tribute ever breathed across the lips of God to this dear man that was born of his mother’s sister.
John eagerly awaits the news. His heart begins to pound as his disciples appear at his cell door. There is a feeling of both relief and elation as John relives, in his mind, the accounts that his friends relate to him of all they have seen with their own eyes. He is completely satisfied with the answer they bring. He knows that those who have followed him now know what he meant when he pointed to Jesus and said, “Behold the Lamb of God”.
John is humbled, yet thankful, that it was he who was chosen to hold open the door as God stepped through it into humanity.
Sam Everett
Monday, January 3, 2011
Revival
Noah Webster defines the word, in the religious sense, as: “A renewed and more active attention to religion: an awakening of men to their spiritual concerns”.
Revivals, although not defined as today, have indeed been present, in the church of Jesus Christ since its conception. A "spiritual" revival could have and has been known in some cases, to go on for years within any given geographical area.
However, few are aware that the “revival meeting”, as it has come to be known today, actually did not have its existence until early in the nineteenth century at which time it was introduced by a one Charles Grandison Finney (1792-1875). It may also be noted that Finney was instrumental in the introduction of the call, or invitation, to the anxious bench, later to become known as the "altar call".
This new style of "meeting" brought with it a more heightened and emotional form of what is erroneously considered today as “worship”. It has taken a great stronghold within the church society and is prevalent among almost every denominational and non-denominational religious faction.
Looking into the history of the church, we find that after the conception and rise of the Missionary Baptists in the early nineteenth century, many of the newly established Baptist associations began to acknowledge the revival, which had been introduced only a few years earlier, as an important tool by which more souls could be reached and the growth of the church could be enhanced.
Reading the reports on missionary work from the early nineteen forties, we find in the records of one of the more prominent Baptist associations of northeast Georgia that each church holding membership in this association was expected to “set a goal to add least one baptism per each ten members”. Simply put; each church was expected to boast a ten percent increase to its membership each year.
These churches were provided with a six point program on how to accomplish this goal. One of which was that each church holding membership in the association was to have; “one or more revival meetings per year in each member church in the state”. Other points included “soul-winning meetings in homes, on the street and in other public places”, “a religious census in every community”, or “study courses in soul-winning in every church”. Each of these programs was equally pragmatic, but interestingly enough; the “revival meeting” was number one (1) on the list to be utilized for this particular purpose of adding numbers to the church.
Some churches would eventually become disheartened with the pressure that the associations of this type were putting on them and begin to “pull out” to form more conservative unions. Many felt that the programs with which they had been pressured were much too liberal, but amazingly, one installment that was kept without any hesitation or opposition, even after exiting associations of this type, was the “revival meeting”. Although most every other programs was considered to be non-biblical, unnecessary, or even harmful to the church of Christ, the revival would continue to be embraced as indispensible to the welfare and growth of the church.
Most evangelicals today treat the revival meeting as a biblical installment that was given to the early apostolic church, but, again, we find nowhere in scripture that this can be established. In fact, if we take into consideration that the New Testament church has been in place for over two millennia, we find that the revival meeting is in all reality a relatively new concept. Yet today it is found in virtually every fundamental, charismatic, and Pentecostal circle, including almost all Baptist factions. What is widely accepted today, as a necessity, is in all actuality only one more tradition that has been added to what can be considered as an already over burdened church society.
What is truly disturbing is that the “services” held during a week of “revival” are viewed in an entirely different light than the Sunday worship service. Mindsets are altered by the aura of excitement that is found within the revival service. Emotions run high during these gatherings; usually more so than during any of the other fifty-two weekly services. Prayers become more desperate. The church is worked up into an almost frenzied state. The discourses that are delivered have a tendency to focus on what the sinner must do, rather than the work of Christ and what He has done for the sinner.
In closing, I will stress that assembling for the purpose of worship is biblical as well as needful that the professed Christian may lift up the name of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as well as to grow in the love and knowledge of Him. How often this is done, whether weekly, or even daily, is well within scriptural bounds for the individual church to decide. However, meeting in the name of our Lord should be for no other reason but to adore and worship Him. Anything outside of this purpose could be very dangerous to the health of the church.
In my opinion, the revival meeting, as it is used today, carries no necessity for the growth of God’s true church nor does it have any bearing as to the welfare of the professed Christian. If we believe the scriptures we must also believe that the Lord still has charge of his church and will add to it at His discretion and as He deems necessary (Acts 2:47).
Sam Everett
Revivals, although not defined as today, have indeed been present, in the church of Jesus Christ since its conception. A "spiritual" revival could have and has been known in some cases, to go on for years within any given geographical area.
However, few are aware that the “revival meeting”, as it has come to be known today, actually did not have its existence until early in the nineteenth century at which time it was introduced by a one Charles Grandison Finney (1792-1875). It may also be noted that Finney was instrumental in the introduction of the call, or invitation, to the anxious bench, later to become known as the "altar call".
This new style of "meeting" brought with it a more heightened and emotional form of what is erroneously considered today as “worship”. It has taken a great stronghold within the church society and is prevalent among almost every denominational and non-denominational religious faction.
Looking into the history of the church, we find that after the conception and rise of the Missionary Baptists in the early nineteenth century, many of the newly established Baptist associations began to acknowledge the revival, which had been introduced only a few years earlier, as an important tool by which more souls could be reached and the growth of the church could be enhanced.
Reading the reports on missionary work from the early nineteen forties, we find in the records of one of the more prominent Baptist associations of northeast Georgia that each church holding membership in this association was expected to “set a goal to add least one baptism per each ten members”. Simply put; each church was expected to boast a ten percent increase to its membership each year.
These churches were provided with a six point program on how to accomplish this goal. One of which was that each church holding membership in the association was to have; “one or more revival meetings per year in each member church in the state”. Other points included “soul-winning meetings in homes, on the street and in other public places”, “a religious census in every community”, or “study courses in soul-winning in every church”. Each of these programs was equally pragmatic, but interestingly enough; the “revival meeting” was number one (1) on the list to be utilized for this particular purpose of adding numbers to the church.
Some churches would eventually become disheartened with the pressure that the associations of this type were putting on them and begin to “pull out” to form more conservative unions. Many felt that the programs with which they had been pressured were much too liberal, but amazingly, one installment that was kept without any hesitation or opposition, even after exiting associations of this type, was the “revival meeting”. Although most every other programs was considered to be non-biblical, unnecessary, or even harmful to the church of Christ, the revival would continue to be embraced as indispensible to the welfare and growth of the church.
Most evangelicals today treat the revival meeting as a biblical installment that was given to the early apostolic church, but, again, we find nowhere in scripture that this can be established. In fact, if we take into consideration that the New Testament church has been in place for over two millennia, we find that the revival meeting is in all reality a relatively new concept. Yet today it is found in virtually every fundamental, charismatic, and Pentecostal circle, including almost all Baptist factions. What is widely accepted today, as a necessity, is in all actuality only one more tradition that has been added to what can be considered as an already over burdened church society.
What is truly disturbing is that the “services” held during a week of “revival” are viewed in an entirely different light than the Sunday worship service. Mindsets are altered by the aura of excitement that is found within the revival service. Emotions run high during these gatherings; usually more so than during any of the other fifty-two weekly services. Prayers become more desperate. The church is worked up into an almost frenzied state. The discourses that are delivered have a tendency to focus on what the sinner must do, rather than the work of Christ and what He has done for the sinner.
In closing, I will stress that assembling for the purpose of worship is biblical as well as needful that the professed Christian may lift up the name of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as well as to grow in the love and knowledge of Him. How often this is done, whether weekly, or even daily, is well within scriptural bounds for the individual church to decide. However, meeting in the name of our Lord should be for no other reason but to adore and worship Him. Anything outside of this purpose could be very dangerous to the health of the church.
In my opinion, the revival meeting, as it is used today, carries no necessity for the growth of God’s true church nor does it have any bearing as to the welfare of the professed Christian. If we believe the scriptures we must also believe that the Lord still has charge of his church and will add to it at His discretion and as He deems necessary (Acts 2:47).
Sam Everett
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