Your Logo Here

Get saved today!
True paradise awaits!


Introduction | Home | Breaking Barriers | Dark Facts | Heaven or Hell | Be Born Again | The Christian Life | Christian Quarter | Sinner Central | My Testimony | Visitor Testimonies | Bible Quotes | Hot Topics | Atomic Future | Some FAQs | Ten Commandments | Contact Me | Helpful Links | Heavenly Beggar | Public Form | Woes | Sermon On The Mount | Research Tools | Proverbs | King James Bible | Heaven 101 | Salvation In ABC's | God's Omni's | Dear Catholic Friend | Self-Test | The Story

There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death (Proverbs 14:12)

 Blinded from Birth   Materialism
 Religion   God or Money 
 Works v.s Grace   Quest for Paradise

 The Go-Getter                   The Cake, not the Cherry



Blind from birth

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me (Psalm 51:5)

If you have been reading from the previous page, I had explained with scripture of our sinful genealogy. This would imply that no child born into this world is without sin just as the psalm above signifies. Evidently, a child cannot clearly distinguish between good and evil during infancy. But as he will sprout, evil will become his natural way of life. 

We as adults all carry some recollection of our youthful phases. Therefore we can all probably testify to having reflected or witnessed puerile cruelty. Pushing other kids off the play structures or lighting the teacher's pencils on fire was jesting entertainment. Ultimately, anything which did not subtitle "fun" was discarded from our tiny minds. Little rascals we are! But now having reached maturity, we can easily identify the progress of sin in child growth.

The outcome of a child's behavioral pattern relies heavily with how he is raised. Not being a parent myself, I do not claim any form of expertise on nurturing, although being observant does reap its benefits. I have beheld a overall general negligence in moral development. Parents have the obliged responsibility of teaching their children good manners. It is lacking to say the least. Although I would advocate for strict discipline, especially in the 21'st century, it cannot sidetrack the young choo-choo train away from condemnation alone. But it can absolutely shape them into cultured citizens which is ideally every parent's apprehension. 

The fact remains that being born into sin is a curse. Do not go and howl the blame on your parents, but rather see it as a knot only God can untie. You have been born without the knowledge of The God of Israel and have known darkness in disposition all your life. But now you must consider God's graceful sacrifice on the Cross and allow that to breach the doors of your soul. In whatever stage you may be in presently, the bible indirectly proposes that you are a sitting duck in the midst a great Fowler (Satan). 

There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death (Proverbs 14:12)

The first step to your awakening is acknowledging your inevitable death. The phenomena of death is quite self-convicting. Why must I die? What good is toil and gain for it to come to end? The logic is worthy of a second recap. The objective of living a standard free for all life is from the lies of the Satan. It is because it defers the image of God and calls for self-sufficiency. ------> and ye shall be as gods - Genesis 3:5. What better way to be fooled than thinking they are your own natural thoughts and not Satans whispers? Get this: You are receptive to the devil because to you he doesn't exist and you carry his nature. To you he is "human nature". And as most of the world is living under the same delusion, the answer to life should be drawn from the Bible since it gives us the needed answers.

Your current life may be plentiful with the superficial fulfillments of the flesh. But what is really more significant that being told your destiny is Hell? Now you may challenge this by proclaiming to be a good person. But the bible tells us that we are self-righteous hypocrites and cannot measure up:

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away (Isaiah 64:6)

We may believe we are good, but in our eyes not in God's eyes. We feel that forking some change to a sidewalk dosser and attending Christmas mass can account for our evil deeds. Unfortunately God's standard for righteousness can only be attained one way, through Jesus Christ who fulfilled the law.

For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous (Romans 5:19)

A great deal of us frown or become pacifists when we are asked about the spiritual perspective on life as it just seems so inconceivable. It is usually recoiled with a "get real".  This is where faith alone is exemplified. The gospel message is set accordingly to convict every man of his nature. If by it's truth you determine to accept the calling, you will have to take a step of faith and accept Jesus into your heart for the payment of your sins. The powers of darkness are working to prevent this from happening in a variety ways. If you feel like many options are being thrown at you, consider Satan's guile nature. Jesus is the Savior.

Bible Quotes

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them (2 Corinthians 4:4)

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse (Romans 1:19-20)  

 



Religion

Let God be true, but every man a liar (Romans 3:4)

Traveling back into church history reveals a disturbing paradigm on religion. Pools of blood shed and tumbling empires where all part of the ongoing evil onslaught. As a result, today we have approx 23 major world religions followed buy hundreds of religious bodies, tribes and faith groups. Although the blood shed still continues in some parts of the world, there is a standard religious tolerance for most covered areas on the globe.

That being said, given the thick index of optional movements, a person can easily be left scratching his head at the end of the day. As a result, some have chosen to label themselves in a specific religious domain free of spiritual practises and others have committed themselves to follow their doctrines and traditions.

If you consider yourself neutral on the subject, it is always a wise decision to personally reflect on your destiny. So where do you start?

Let's look at some worldwide religious statistics:

 Christians   33.03% (of which Roman Catholics 17.33%, Protestants 5.8%, Orthodox 3.42%, Anglicans 1.23%)
 Muslims                                                  20.12%
 Hindus  13.34%
 Buddhists       5.89%
 Sikhs   0.39%
 Jews   0.23%
 Other- religions  12.61%
 Non- religious  12.03%
 Atheists   2.36%


Tho judaism I believe is the oldest religion in the world, as you can see it is one of the smallest groups today. General Christianity takes the lead. Although it claims to drive one third of the worlds population, probably a much smaller percentage actually pursue biblical salvation authentically (Roman Catholicism is not biblical). Islam ranks second holding approx 20%, and hinduism third. But nonetheless, it is not a numbers competition but a examination. To go and and jump into a larger boat would be a idealistic approach not a conviction.

Since this is a bible believing website, I will no doubt focus distinctively on on its genuine message. Many of the religions we see today are based on trying to work their way to a "god" through good works. Christ-ianity is different from all of them. It is God who reached down to men.

The Holy Bible

The Bible explains that centuries ago, God came to men and women through Jesus Christ with the offer of personal reconciliation. It also shares with us the image a loving God who came in humility, gentleness and compassion, selflessness and giving all things, in healing and requesting nothing. But most of all, to shed his own blood in compensation for our evil deeds.

It is the world's most widely read and respected book, retaining a viable beginning and a end, life-long educational teachings, established and prospected prophecies, and most of all, a promise of immortality through eternal life. It is freely distributed to motels, hotels, hospitals, classrooms, university dormitories, penal institutions and many other locations all over north america. It drives its believers to shout the good news on street corners, mission to third world countries, air on television and radio, and evidently showcase on the web. Altogether, it is most embraced literature in the world giving hope to millions on any given day.

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6)

Unfortunately the bible has gone through a ordeal of perversions throughout the ages. With so many different denominations having emerged following heretical doctrines, many christ-hungry have been left on the wayside of apostasy(denying faith). But I can assure all visitors that the King James Bible  holds God's written word. If during these readings you feel unsure about the material, I would push you to follow along with a open bible. There is also a online bible on this website (see home page)

God's word

The quote above; Let God be true, but every man a liar (Romans 3:4) is one of my preferred quotations. I couldn't possibly imagine a Holy God being capable of lying but I would accept the title for myself. A lying God would make him a evil, untrustworthy and unreliable God. But has the God of the bible kept His promise according to scripture? With millions of born again christians worldwide, the answer would be Yes!

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16)

The Apostle Paul also wrote:

But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11,12)

How does one truly self-certify biblical salvation?

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17)

There is truly nothing I can do to convince you to believe Jesus Christ but by preaching His words. The more you read of God's word, the more you will grow convicted. Once convicted, you will begin to gain faith. Once that happens, you will need to take a leap of faith and accept Christ into your life. Once redeemed and born again, you will reconciled to God and sealed with eternal life.

Bible Quotes  

The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart (Jeremiah 14:14)

If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain (James 1:26)

For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many (Matthew 24:5)

 



Good deeds v.s grace

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8)

Having been made in God's image, we project many qualities which reflect His spirit. We communicate in joy, love, kindness, generosity and peace, demonstrating God's concrete fundamentals. We can see these attributes bloom in our each of own lives even tho they are smothered by sin. Subconsciously, we carry them as second nature but a selected few chose to exercise them precisely for the benefit of others.

I find this to be a important subject because of the excusable strategy is has given the committed "good person". I am grateful for all the souls who chose to dedicate their time and work performing duties others would scoff at. Without volunteers, aid workers, and warm hearted helpers it would seem almost disastrous to say the least. Although lending a hand to God will generally leave you with a sense of fulfillment, there is a fluorescent divider between good deeds and grace.

Naturally, the general population considers itself a righteous bunch. Buy paying their taxes and celebrating thanksgiving dinner, somehow a nobility belt has been girded around their waist-lines. But what I am about to present should be registered clearly. Unfortunately our beloved bible explains that a man can only gain salvation by God's grace alone!

What is exactly is God's grace?

D. Undeserved Mercy

Sadly, God tells us there is nothing we can ever do to gain His favor (all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags Isaiah 64:6). Solely His mercy and Grace can deliver us from condemnation and that mercy is attained through faith in Jesus Christ alone. God is naturally more concerned with our hearts than with our hands. 

A number of us prefer to carry out good deeds while maintaining the sinful freedom of self-will. This is a hypocrites trip to the eternal inferno. Just like a thief will stick up a bank and secretly donate a portion to charity, all hypocrysies fuel god's wrath. Ultimately, we cannot rely on good deeds as vouchers for righteousness.

Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity (Matthew 23:28)

I mentioned earlier of this topic being of significance all because of the disturbing fact that 90 percent of the people I have come across upon my christian journey have thought themselves to be righteous individuals going to heaven. 90% !!! . That is the majority. I truly believe no one should walk the streets of deception with such a idea.

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace (Romans 11:6)

Salvation is for everyone and available to anyone. In the eyes of God each individual is accountable for his or her own sins. Unless those who work good deeds have been saved and redeemed through faith in Jesus Christ, they work in vain (for no reward). Observe the following quotations on grace.

Bible Quotes

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace (Romans 4:16)

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace(Ephesians 1:7)

Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly (Proverbs 3:34)

That through the grace of the LORD Jesus Christ we shall be saved (Acts 15:11)

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:23-24)

 



Materialism

Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth (Luke 12:15)

If we compare the spiritual life to our earthly existence, we can web a enormous list differences and similarities. The most notable one being the contrast between eternal and temporal. In our earthly confinement, we have been graciously forwarded God's craftsmanship to construct and enjoy our evolutionary advances and its pleasuresome benefits (expelling evil designs of course). 

Fast cars, extreme sports and modern gizmos can and do invigorate the soul. We largely attempt to fill our lives with as much positive energy and excitement as possible, persistently seeking for satisfaction. Baring that all of these creations express joy, they are unfortunately smacking shutters to the Almighty Craftsman. 

We can all confess to having taken certain elements in life for granted or worst yet, life itself. Though we confess them, we rarely ponder on it for long. Before we know it, we're back in vain living. We have what we have and do not see any problem with that aspect. But the idea would be to stop and think about it's significance. This following quote may help you awaken from your material desires;

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt: 6:19-21)

This is quite disturbing considering that 95 % of the world's godless investments are towards material gain. Since it is the focus of so many, it has blinded them from the real value of human existence.

If you do not have a loving relationship with God, who ultimately owns all of your possessions, what real gain is can you obtain?

God's primary concern is to have a personal relationship with his creation. Without one, man is left to follow his evil desires and molest god's gracious outpouring in idolatry. God cannot be related with sinners as the bible states. But when you are reinstated in God's loving hands, you will be pointed into a heavenly direction. It does not mean you will be stripped from your belongings, by no means. The goal of the renewed heart would be to love others and cherish the real moral values, to store up eternal, incorruptible treasures in heaven where no evil could dwell and where a righteous kingdom would be established forever. It is working to better the lives of others, preaching to others and edifying the eternal kingdom of God as his labor men in love is primarily the foundation of all things.

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matthew 16:26)

Holding onto earthly possessions indicates that you are heading in the wrong direction. Voyaging through a decade of modern growth understandably promotes difficult temptations. All is vain nonetheless without a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Conquer death first by receiving Christ and you will live to see true eternal happiness.

Bible Quotes

Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death (Proverbs 11:4)

Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied (Proverbs 27:20)

The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing (Ecclesiastes 1:8)

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt 6:19-21)

 



God or money?

Ye cannot serve God and mammon (money) (Matthew 6:24)

In retrospect, materialism and money are grouped synonymously. Money however carries a wider spectrum. Since we have been given free-will, money is that tangible utensil which opts for endless possibilities. Generally it compensates for our common necessities and survival, clearly motivating the world's 360 degree rotation. But man's greed has altered the overall factor of contentment.

With wealth fantasies promoted by the media and the rest of the world, it has compelled the average man into a race. Financial success is a popular tag-line today and it is becoming a primary preoccupation for millions. A typhoon of money hungry souls have fallen away from rational principles and have dug themselves many regrets.

The Motivation

The restless drive of always desiring more from life is rooted by the fact that we initially search in all the wrong places. People trail after swift resolutions to relieve them from their burdens. In all, the results are temporary patch ups followed by a backlash in bewilderment. Money is one of the most common enticements people face today because it ultimately destines the way one will live. For countless, it has become a supplement for God.

The sad part is that money cannot buy out death. The price for that has been paid for with the blood of Jesus Christ and that alone can bridge eternal life. Crazy it seems? Blood? You have to understand that God chose this sacrifice himself, and that is all he will accept. Your belief and genuine repentance that your sins were paid for by a Crucified Jesus.

There is nothing wrong with the use money unless it is used as a substitute for God. If a person chooses to trust in money rather than God who owns both the soul and sports car, it is undoubtedly vanity to it's core definition. If you love money, you are a idolater and no idolater has a inheritance in the kingdom of God. Read the following parable of the Young Rich Ruler;

Matthew 19

Ruler: Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 

Jesus: Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

Ruler: Which?

Jesus: Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Ruler: All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

Jesus: If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.

When the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

Jesus - To his disciples - Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you; 

It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God

To be truly content and have the seal of eternal life will require a decision. If anyone wishes to trust in His riches rather than Christ, he will not inherit the kingdom of God. Ironic and sad at the same time, that money will be a investment to eternal darkness. God does not hate the rich and by no means judges in partiality. But the entry point for His kingdom involves humility and faith which are priceless.

Bible Quotes

He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity (Ecclesiastes 5:10)

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matthew 16:26)

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (money) (Matthew 6:24)

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1 Timothy 6:8-10)

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matthew 6:19-21)



Quest for paradise

Have you ever traveled to a remote paradise with luscious green foliage, perched peacocks and splashing aquamarine surfs?

You may be a mom raising ten rug rats, a office clerk eye-balling his calender, or a packing plant worker on the edge of madness. Regardless, your enduring sanity may be that two week gateway you've been dreaming about for the last two-hundred and seventy-five days of the year.

Oftentimes we may lose sight of how long and hard we toil trying to hold our lives together since a good eighty-five percent of life is work! Surely the working man/woman deserves a breather from time to time. What better way to escape the metropolitan jungles than with fourteen days on white sandy beaches! Sure you deserve it!

If you haven't valued it yet, our glorious blue marble which happens to be floating in space, holds resplendent elements which captivate the soul. The most appreciated and sought after landscapes are those which project tranquil and serene blends of nature. Even if we've never experienced such places, we've definitely heard of them.

Pacing through daily life can usually bring about fear and anxieties which lead us to fantasize about palm fronds and sandcastles. We may not detect our sub-desires initially, but the quest for paradise is actually a perpetual hankering reocurring in the human mind. If workplace surveys were to be polled all over North America, I would expect the general discontent employee to vote yes on cocktails and dreams.

The roots of this thirst don't usually come to mind, but if we compared them to the accounts of the Bible, it would indicate that humans subconsciously yearn to head back to the Garden of Eden where Man was originally led out for insubordination (Genesis 3:23,24).

If you flipped through the book of Genesis, you would notice that there was the absence of any of the radical or absurd living conditions we have today such as stress, tears and sweat. Within the inner circle in where Adam and Eve were fitted, they were set on High and enjoyed; felicity, comfort, peace and certified harmony with a loving God without evil, thorns or thistles (Gen 3:18). But as a result of Adam's deliberate disobediance, we were left to roam a tainted world of violance, crime and self-destruction, such as what you may have seen beyond your bedroom window or on CNN this morning. As a result, it should not be considered a coincidence that bad news has always had an overshadowing effect over good news.

Since most folks seek to cultivate and retain a happy medium amidst a broken world, they often hold fast to the thought of a "better place". A natural and justifiable sensation which should always be quarantined in the heart. But the common proverbs we hear today and vast promotion of vacation getaways are pouring ragu over the road map leading back to the true Eden. God's Heaven and the Gospel accounts holding those promises.

As the unsaved and hopeless wander the earth today, they continuously seek for something which cannot logically dwell. A paradise on earth along with global amity. History alone presents no evidence of any previous state in time where man and beast lived in harmony or where wars and famine had ceased to exist, proving a erosion in the foundation of man's current existance.

Without proper knowledge of the Bible's Alpha and Omega and, most significantly, a spiritual awakening, the natural sinner cannot discern nor admit to the gradual deterioration of the world stained by evil. Since Mankind's natural expectations are self-centered and not God-centered, he is left with false and theoretical contemplations which leave him in void to any real concrete hope.

The Bible has told us through prophetic scripture that unless death is destroyed (1 corinthians 15:26) and evil cast into burning fire forever (Rev 20:14), that men should no longer inwardly expect repose and better days but worse times in the near future. In respect to the simplicity and rationality of this, since to perish is a end to life and all men, seemingly attempting to race against time, are destined to such, should be registered with listening ears.

Americans and Canadians are known for their hefty investments spent annually on travel, exotic villas and tropical real estate. However, these appearing to be profitable, are investments cornerstoned on bad soil which stand temporarily. Jesus spoke in His sermon found in Matthew 6:19 "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt". He was indicating the future destruction of the world and the vanity of temporal materialism.

Christians and non-Christians should generally agree, that in spite of the many embellished elements seen in our world, beauty and harmony have been sanded thin by the breaching of the God's commands. Thus, if sin is incorporated into the world, all beauty is compromised since sin itself is a termination to life.

So whether or not you've already begun you vacation planning this year, the bible is offering you a super extraordinairy travel lot with paid expenses. Only this lot is an everlasting dwelling and surmounts any rose bud or carribean shore you've ever witnessed. Eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ. Redemption into incorruption!

Be Born Again!



The go-getter myth

All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing (Ecclesiastes 1:8)

Here is a quote I think well describes the definition of today's Go-Getter:

"What we often value as an energetic go-getter is really a person who is perpetually unsatisfied.  - Paul Bennett (Journalist who quit to become a painter)

I couldn't agree more. Only I would change the last sentence with �The truly wealthy man is the one who has found his Creator (since he now has eternal security)". But either way, the theme here is contentment. The Bible says we are to be content with food and clothing.

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content (1 Timothy 6:8)

Um, sorry? You mean no big screen TV�s, no 30,000$ sports buggy? Yeah! See for starters God says we have all gone astray like sheep (Isaiah 53:6). That means, we have no Sheppard and no guide so we are wandering the fields and going after things by ourselves which is a form of idolatry. That is why we are never satisfied, because we have no quench, no satisfaction, no love, no supplier (No God). We are natural covetors. So this idea that people should be out there living lives to the fullest is a fool's proverb which has been hailed within the heathen world.

People who come out and tell you they live life to the fullest are;

1. Discontent
2. Liars
3. Lost

I would like someone to explain to me what exactly "living life to the fullest" really entails? Or living everyday like it was your last? Sounds kind of selfish and hopeless since it presumably implies "a race against time".

According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue (2 Peter 1:3)

Okay but say I bought into to this philosophy. I wake up in the morning and start jumping up and down on my bed for a good twenty minutes. I draw a bubble bath and fill it with rubber duckies and scented candles. I then indulge in a nice breakfast with all sorts of french and Italian desserts. I get dressed and slap on bright and colorful clothes, including yellow socks and pink shoes. I spray my hair blue, green, and orange and walk out the door like a ballerina and hop in my car. I hit a hundred and fifty miles an hour down the highway and make it to work early. I go through all the departments and give a high five to workers I don't even know. I play video games at my work station until my shift starts. After work I decide to hit a ice cream parlor and purchase a tripple decker ice cream cone. Hopping back into my car, I pop the radio and sing to my favorite tunes. I arrive home and take out my unicycle and zip through the streets singing jolly hymns. Arriving at the shopping mall, I decide to burn 4000$ on my credit card on clothes, movies, toys and more ice cream.  I get home and invite my friends over. We party, get merry and laugh ourselves ulcers. At the end of the night I pop a cork and sleep in my hundred dollar Egyptian quilts.

Okay..what's wrong with this picture?

1. I didn't help anyone
2. I was greedy and selfish
3. I idolized myself and my happiness

Is this what people really expect? If I recall, life is usually the entire opposite of what I just described. Closer to stress, bills, appointments etc. So why do people say things like that? It is usually a result of "momentary joy". But also, by believing they only live once, they feel it is necessary to value everyday because life is too short. Sad and also an impossible scenario since everyday holds unexpected and improvised happenings. An thoughtless philosophy nonetheless.

Does the general public ever set a few minutes aside and ask themselves why they have to die in the first place? If they did maybe they would think things over, but there is so much of the �do it yourself� "success , success" out there, (Dr. Phil, Tony Robbins), God and his commands are considered unrealistic and "boring and monastic". Essentially, no sin, no fun. False, False, False! God is everything man thinks he isn't. He is the only heart fulfilling source of joy in existence! Sin leads to sorrow and death!

To sum up, it is impossible to be content without Christ. Why, well because:

1. He holds the keys to life and death (Heaven, Hell)
2. Your current happiness is an illusion led by sin.
3. Coveting and lust cannot be overcome without Christ.

Believing in yourself is like saying I believe in a liar, a thief and a idolater. You've broken the Ten Commandments which proves you cannot trust in yourself since they are the general moral laws of humanity. God is love, righteousness and justice in whole, and man is sinful, evil and selfish. Whoever wants to lead his own ungodly life will never see life eternal and happiness. Heaven can�t let murderers, thieves, liars and covetors enter it�s gates.

For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God (Ephesians 5:5)

Be Born again

 



Jesus the cake, not the cherry

The kingdom of heaven is a mystery to the Christian in the same way it is to a unbelieving person. The only difference between the believer and the non-believer is that the believer has assurance of life and something eternally significant to hope for while the other refuses to accept the reality of sin, redemption, Jesus and the possibility of an eternal paradise. Though the bible does shed some light on significant aspects of heaven, overall, it is still considered a mystery to the earthly man.

Jesus did however disclose many mysteries which were hidden from the ancient Isreal and the prophets for the benefit of the faithful generation. He spoke of them through what we refer to as Parables, or in other words, "earthly stories with a heavenly meaning". These could be divided in sub themes since each parable refered to a different aspect of the Kingdom, such as it's King, character, value and subjects.

For this topic, I have chosen to use the Parable of "The Pearl of Great Price"

Matthew 13:45,46

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it

What initially comes to mind when we read this parable is the sense of value the Kingdom of Heaven is represented by in response to one seeking for it. The theme here is "Priceless". The pearl which the merchant man found was so precious, that he sold all that he had to get it, knowing that nothing else in the world could be valued any higher.

But the title of this article relates to those who, when hearing of heaven, tend to treat it like a goodly pearl rather than "A pearl of great price". This is quite disheartening since the goodly pearls mentioned in this parable are impermanent and lead to death.

If you've ever had the gracious calling of salvation come upon you and without taking it to heart, set is aside as an add-on to your list of possesions, you should realize how foolish and vain such a descision is. This is why I compare this situation to people thinking that having Jesus is like a cherry topping a cake (an addition to what one already has) rather then treating Jesus as the cake itself in whole (the only value of life).

Jesus, as the word of God states, is the only mediator bridging death to life (1 Timothy 2:5), essentially, the only pathway to the kingdom of Heaven. The only other alternative to this path is the one Satan has drawn for you, the one of sin leading to death (eternal seperation from God) and the Lake of Fire which is the appointed destination to all unjustified men.

Therefore Jesus is not an addition to what you may currently have, but really He is the only reason you inhale and exhale. Without the salvation of Christ, you are like a withering leaf, being shifted left and right by the wind to eventually be burned in the autumn bonfire.

1 Peter 2:7

Unto you therefore which believe he is precious.

Getting to the Kingdom of Heaven is a faithful step away for the merchant (You) desiring that precious pearl (Purpose of life). By selling all that you have or in other words, seeing your sinfulness and eternal punishment in hell and turning to God in good conscious by receiving Christ, you will own that Pearl.

Be Born Again



jesuswantsme©2006-2007