In the Concise Webster’s Dictionary ‘remarkable’ is defined by only two words, ‘noteworthy’- that is worthy or taking notice of, and ‘extraordinary’- that is uncommon. Both of these words as well as the word “remarkable” could be used to describe the Bible.
It is ‘noteworthy.’ Think for a minute about what you know about God? As a Christian, everything you know about God is what you’ve learned through His Word. The Bible was written by men through the inspiration of God that we might know God and His Son and of God’s purpose for His creation. That is truly ‘noteworthy!’
The Bible is ‘extraordinary’ in its origin and preservation. It began with the spoken word carried down through generations, its accuracy preserved by God. Eventually it evolved into the written word. While we do not possess the original writings, archeological discoveries have continued to prove the accuracy of the Bible as we have it today. It has defied attempts by those who would seek to destroy it. It is truly extraordinary.
It is ‘remarkable’ in its power to transform the lives of those who are exposed to and accept its teachings. It’s ‘gospel’ is “the power of God unto salvation” to those who believe in it (Romans 1:16). It is described as “…quick and powerful” in Hebrews 4:12, and “…is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” in the same verse. It is a ‘remarkable’ book; it is God’s Book. Let it ‘transform’ your life! (Another remarkable thing)
Looking for Churches in Santa Clarita? Check out Heart of the Canyons.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
MAKE PREPARATION! by Ray Eddy
Before each round in professional golf, the player’s caddy walks the course. He marks down distances, notes where the traps and water hazards are, and notes the pin placement on each hole for that day. He makes those preparations so that his player can successfully navigate the course with the lowest possible score.
In many ways, life is like a round of golf and you, as a caddy, have to prepare for it. In golf, there are easy holes and there are more difficult ones. There are hazards to avoid when possible and if you find yourself in one, you need to know how to get out of it. Some golfers even resort to prayer when they find themselves in difficulty. (Prayer helps in life also.)
The bottom line for the average golfer is to finish the course with his temper and his clubs intact and to reach the 18th hole. In life the 18th hole is death. When the round is over there is no time to wish you had done something differently; no going back and replaying a hole.
Paul obviously wasn’t thinking about golf when he said in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have finished my course.” But he was thinking about the conclusion of his life on earth, and because he had properly prepared his time on earth with Christ as his Savior, he could say that there was a crown of righteousness awaiting him. How’s your round of life going?
In many ways, life is like a round of golf and you, as a caddy, have to prepare for it. In golf, there are easy holes and there are more difficult ones. There are hazards to avoid when possible and if you find yourself in one, you need to know how to get out of it. Some golfers even resort to prayer when they find themselves in difficulty. (Prayer helps in life also.)
The bottom line for the average golfer is to finish the course with his temper and his clubs intact and to reach the 18th hole. In life the 18th hole is death. When the round is over there is no time to wish you had done something differently; no going back and replaying a hole.
Paul obviously wasn’t thinking about golf when he said in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have finished my course.” But he was thinking about the conclusion of his life on earth, and because he had properly prepared his time on earth with Christ as his Savior, he could say that there was a crown of righteousness awaiting him. How’s your round of life going?
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
IT'S STILL AMAZING! by Ray Eddy
According to a Music web site, the song ‘Amazing Grace,’ has been recorded 6,000 times, which may make it the most recorded song on the planet. The song was written in 1779 and what is remarkable is that it is as popular today as it has ever been. It was the theme song, as sung by Cliff Barrows, for the Billy Graham Crusades.
It was played at the site of the Oklahoma bombing memorial, the 9/11 memorial service after the attacks on the twin towers, and the memorial for the 32 students killed at Virginia Tech., as well as numerous funeral services around the world.
It was written by John Newton who as a young man deserted from the English Navy, was recaptured and punished and then became involved in slave trading. He later had a religious awakening and became a poet, song writer, and a clergyman. It has no reference to Jesus, just God and the Lord, yet it is un-mistakenly Christian by the word ‘Grace.’
As amazing as the song may be, God’s grace is even more amazing. We may talk about God’s love, but it is “by grace’ that we are saved” (Ephesians 2:8). Grace will be around as long as there is sin in the world, the need for forgiveness and the need for the daily presence of a living, loving savior to be our guide and strength each day.”
Grace, God’s unmerited gift to us!
Looking for Santa Clarita Churches? Check out Heart of the Canyons.
It was played at the site of the Oklahoma bombing memorial, the 9/11 memorial service after the attacks on the twin towers, and the memorial for the 32 students killed at Virginia Tech., as well as numerous funeral services around the world.
It was written by John Newton who as a young man deserted from the English Navy, was recaptured and punished and then became involved in slave trading. He later had a religious awakening and became a poet, song writer, and a clergyman. It has no reference to Jesus, just God and the Lord, yet it is un-mistakenly Christian by the word ‘Grace.’
As amazing as the song may be, God’s grace is even more amazing. We may talk about God’s love, but it is “by grace’ that we are saved” (Ephesians 2:8). Grace will be around as long as there is sin in the world, the need for forgiveness and the need for the daily presence of a living, loving savior to be our guide and strength each day.”
Grace, God’s unmerited gift to us!
Looking for Santa Clarita Churches? Check out Heart of the Canyons.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
"THE CHURCH HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!"
Some people may not understand the above statement. To them, the church is the building. Walk into any community and stop someone on the street and ask them where the church is located. They will probable ask you which church you are looking for. Then they will begin to name the various church denominations that they are familiar with. When this person has determined what denominational church you are seeking, they will, no doubt, direct you to a specific address where that church building is found.
The Greek word for ‘church’ is ‘a called out people’ i.e. the people of God.
The people who are called the church often meet in a building which over time has come to be called a Church. But the building is not the church.
When the church is in the building it is ‘gathered’ for the purpose of worship, teaching, and other activities for personal spiritual growth. When the church has left the building it is ‘scattered’ for the purpose of witnessing to people they meet daily. At any time the church may be driving a bus, waiting tables, teaching pupils, shopping in a mall etc., this is where church fulfills its purpose.
Since the church is out of the building more than it is in it, people of the world should be able to recognize it, not by its denomination, but by its demeanor. Are you the ‘church’ when you’ve left the building?
The Greek word for ‘church’ is ‘a called out people’ i.e. the people of God.
The people who are called the church often meet in a building which over time has come to be called a Church. But the building is not the church.
When the church is in the building it is ‘gathered’ for the purpose of worship, teaching, and other activities for personal spiritual growth. When the church has left the building it is ‘scattered’ for the purpose of witnessing to people they meet daily. At any time the church may be driving a bus, waiting tables, teaching pupils, shopping in a mall etc., this is where church fulfills its purpose.
Since the church is out of the building more than it is in it, people of the world should be able to recognize it, not by its denomination, but by its demeanor. Are you the ‘church’ when you’ve left the building?
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