Fire Pit Friday: Justice, Sympathy, Christian Nations?

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.” I Peter 3:8-9 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/1pe.3.9.NKJV 

Fire Pit Fridays – first three Fridays of November 6pm – watch No Quarter November blog post, have a drink if desired, and some theological and applicational discussion. https://noquarternovember.com 

Love in unity of the essentials.
Love in discussion of the practical lived out faith.
Love in rejoicing together in our Savior.
Love in growing in the faith.

May it be in love, fruitful, edifying, and a blessing. “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.” I Peter 3:8-9 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/1pe.3.9.NKJV 

Nov. 10 NQN Fire Pit Friday 6pm – Two big topics: (1) Justice (rooted in God’s absolute standard) vs. Empathy (untethered from reality or morality) in the Israel-Hamas context, and  (2) can political ideals (democracy, religious freedom) pre-suppose a Christian worldview? Or do those ideals come from a Christian worldview pre-supposition (and is that an attribute of Christian Nationalism)? Could tackle both or one, wherever the conversation leads. 

1) Video: https://youtu.be/VDGwGfPl9WQ?si=E0drsjjxAY8EYjIs 
Blog: https://dougwils.com/books-and-culture/s7-engaging-the-culture/a-pinch-of-incense-to-the-genius-of-democracy-2.html

2) Video: https://youtu.be/AHyoPYcz_xk?si=EiWzYOpPtFJlLwPD 
Blog: https://dougwils.com/books-and-culture/s7-engaging-the-culture/a-pinch-of-incense-to-the-genius-of-democracy.html 

Three articles I read this week emphasize that we do not look to secular, Godless, thought or systems to address the practicalities of Christian cultural engagement! God’s absolute truth and biblical standard must pre-suppose all thought and understanding. Justice and Politics must be informed by our Christian worldview.  

Justice. Current “a la carte approach to theology starves us of the riches of the historic Christian tradition. Moreover, it forces many to look to secular thought to address the practicalities of Christian cultural engagement rather than to Scripture… What if we applied our big-God theology all the way out to the corners, even in the area of justice?” As Lord over every aspect of our spiritual, physical, and thought lives? “God’s sovereignty applies not only to personal salvation; it also means that he governs the whole course of redemptive history according to his unchanging plan (Eph. 1:11)… As heirs of the Reformation mantle of sola Scriptura, we should always bring our systems under the intense scrutiny of Scripture. At the same time, we must not be bare biblicists, neglecting the treasures of covenant theology and its particular applications to our cultural moment.” How Covenant Theology Clarifies Justice Issues https://founders.org/articles/how-covenant-theology-clarifies-justice-issues/ 

Sympathy. the difference between sympathy and empathy was the difference between objective truth and subjective felt “truth.” … Mankind is fallen, bent, twisted. It is not prudent or wise to untether any of his emotional states—even the ones we glibly assumed were benevolent… The biblical view of man is that he is by nature an object of wrath (Eph. 2:3). Is anyone righteous? Not even one (Rom. 3:10). Left to our own devices, we spend our energy hating one another and being hated (Tit. 3:3). Before conversion to Christ, we must be restrained and held back from evil externally. After conversion to Christ, we are constrained internally by the Spirit of God, who enables us to mortify our remaining sinful impulses. Not to put too fine a point on it, man is not basically good…. If you have a biblical doctrine of man, you will want to see him tethered to the rock of justice. If you have an unbiblical doctrine of man, you will assume that he is a natural-born sweetie pie, and that leaving him to pursue his ethical development in some self-paced way will somehow turn out well. This is the thin mist of naive ethical theory, seeping out from under the door jams of all our major Thinkeries.” Empathy as the Headwaters of Cruelty https://dougwils.com/books-and-culture/s7-engaging-the-culture/a-pinch-of-incense-to-the-genius-of-democracy-2.html 

Christian Nation? “Our new Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has freaked a bunch of people out by acknowledging his Christian faith openly and unashamedly, and by saying that he plans to begin every work day there at the Capitol by utilizing a little prayer chapel that is close by his new offices. Now whether or not Johnson actually is a Christian nationalist, he certainly drew the charge of Christian nationalism almost instantly. He did this by means of a little trick where he avowed that his Christianity would have something to do with how he discharged his office. He did not use any approved line like “my faith, which is very personal and precious to me, will not have any influence on how I make political decisions.” … a number of conservative Christians who are very critical of formal Christian nationalism are mysteriously fine with Johnson and friends praying together on government property because, say they, that kind of devotion is personal and private. They approve of that sort of piety. The problem for them would come if someone tried to extract an agenda for action from the Scriptures, and on the basis of scriptural authority. That is where they would start to get restive and more than a little bit jumpy.” But where do the ideas of “religious liberty”, “democracy”, “free speech”, and the “Constitution” come from? “Religious liberty makes sense in some worldviews, and is flatly rejected by others. The idea of limited government as represented by our Constitution is dependent upon a certain worldview, and cannot be sustained by other worldviews. Is Owen willing to recognize that in order for us to have all the things he believes in, we must first have an established and shared set of preconditions that makes belief in such things possible? … I believe in religious liberty also, but I know and understand that such liberty arises from one worldview, and not from others. So if you believe in religious liberty, and you actually want it to happen, then that means you must also want the framework of such liberty to be understood by our rulers, and incorporated into our constitutional infrastructure. And that is what we mean by Christian nationalism… you cannot consistently believe in the Constitution unless you also believe in the kind of society that produced it. And the kind of society that produced it was a Christian one.” The Joy Juice of Democracy https://dougwils.com/books-and-culture/s7-engaging-the-culture/a-pinch-of-incense-to-the-genius-of-democracy.html  

Interesting applicational exercise: all cultures equal, or a Christian worldview of the value of life, evil of murder, and justice applied. “Charles James Napier, commander-in-chief of British India, enforced a ban on the Hindu practice of burning widows. When a group of irate Hindu priests asserted that the customs of their nation should be honored, here is how Napier responded: ‘This burning of widows is your custom; prepare the funeral pile. But my nation has also a custom. When men burn women alive, we hang them and confiscate all their property. My carpenters shall therefore erect gibbets on which to hang all concerned when the widow is consumed. Let us all act according to national customs.’” https://x.com/benzeisloft/status/1722727774505284092?s=46&t=Ag2lESY3ntUopWo1gN17hw 

You are the Christian governor of the colony. Do you empathize with the colonized and allow the burning of widows? Do you look to truth tethered justice to establish a Christian worldview based civil order?

Concluding thought question: How are we as the church preparing to care for one another if God sends cataclysmic judgement, to fight against evil, to advance the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ?

Supporting Ref.

Eric Metaxas: Awake, You Who Sleep (2023) https://youtu.be/8AkvuGZfTg0?si=aBpVlgzKNh-UocDs  “In the face of a darkening and confused culture, Eric Metaxas makes a career out of bringing both encouragement and a challenge to believers. He calls for Christians of conviction to stand firm, speak the truth, and do so with the hope that comes from our faith in the gospel. Eric is a happy warrior for the application of a Christian worldview to every aspect of our lives.”

TS&TT: Larry Taunton | Infiltrating The World Economic Forum https://youtu.be/9WzDFMC17fg?si=5Z1f3D2473iCBn0f  “Tom Ascol and Graham Gunden welcome Larry Taunton back to the show to discuss the World Economic Forum. They talk about some the WEF Genesis and their agenda, while hearing about Larry’s personal experience after infiltrating their 2023 meeting in Davos, Switzerland.”

Coming soon to Founders Press. “A Revolutionary Reading of Romans 13: A Biblical Case For Lawful Subjection To The Civil Magistrate and Dutiful Resistance To Tyrants” – By Timothy Decker

The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates: A Proper Resistance to Tyranny and a Repudiation of Unlimited Obedience to Civil Government by Matthew J. Trewhella https://a.co/6Mn2RHk

The Magdeburg Confession: 13th of April 1550 AD by Pastors of Magdeburg https://a.co/cWOPNHu

If You Can Keep It: The Forgotten Promise of American Liberty by Eric Metaxas https://a.co/5vUxwdQ

Celebrate Liberty! Famous Patriotic Speeches & Sermons by David Barton https://a.co/8FZFVWt

Hitler, God, and the Bible by Ray Comfort https://a.co/7Oc9vB9 

When a Nation Forgets God: 7 Lessons We Must Learn From Nazi Germany by Erwin W. Lutzer https://a.co/hFGQ1zI 

The Founders’ Key: The Divine and Natural Connection Between the Declaration and the Constitution and What We Risk by Losing It by Larry P. Arnn https://a.co/iIqY7ad

God’s Double Agent: The True Story of a Chinese Christian’s Fight for Freedom by Bob Fu, Nancy French https://a.co/8oUBngH

The White Horse King: The Life of Alfred the Great by Ben Merkle https://a.co/64ce4sw


THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Household Prayer: A shining light of good works

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/mat.5.16.NKJV

Brothers, praying that our households, homeschool communities, and local assemblies of the Church are set apart as lights in the darkness (Matt. 5:16), illuminating God’s truth and grace. Lord I pray that our salvation produces the fruit of good works (Eph. 2:10, James 2:20), and May our good works shine a light (Matt. 5:16) that adorns “the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.” (Titus 2:7, 10)

The pilgrims, according to William Bradford, “sought a better country for a more fruitful life, body and soul, but most importantly, to protect their children from corruption… they swore ‘in the Presence of God’ to form a ‘civil Body Politick’ for the ‘Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith.’”

It’s often told of the persecution of the reformation time period that led the pilgrims across the ocean. But what is overlooked is the concern they had for the spiritual development and protection of their children from the degenerate corruption of the culture. This motivated them to be set apart as a shining example of “the ‘Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith.’”

“Do it for the kids”

“What was intolerable—“of all sorrows most heavy to be borne”—was that some of the children of Bradford’s group had been influenced by the “great licentiousness of the youth in that country, and the manifold temptations of the place” been “drawn away by evil examples into extravagant and dangerous courses, getting the reins off their necks and departing from their parents… to the great grief of their parents and dishonour of God. So that they saw their posterity would be in danger to degenerate and be corrupted.” … They sought a better country for a more fruitful life, body and soul, but most importantly, to protect their children from corruption… There they swore “in the Presence of God” to form a “civil Body Politick” for the “Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith.” The Pilgrim exodus was both evangelical and political, and not born from a martyrdom complex but from zeal to build anew and, most of all, to acquire space to exercise their preferred way of life. The security and longevity of their children were paramount… Though the proclamation of the Gospel would, of course, not be neglected, the Pilgrim emigration was effectively flight from a blue state to red territory. Would-be modern pilgrims needn’t feel ashamed of their decidedly natural and sensible impulses to safeguard their families and way of life by seeking out greener pastures.” ‘The Pilgrim Option, or On the Blue State Exodus’ by Timon Cline, American Reformer https://americanreformer.org/2023/07/do-it-for-the-kids/

William Bradford’s (1590-1657) ‘Of Plymouth Plantation’ https://books.google.com/books/about/Bradford_s_History_of_Plimoth_Plantation.html?id=1SwSAAAAYAAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=kp_read_button&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&gboemv=1&ovdme=1#v=onepage&q&f=false


THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Celebrate! June is Life Month!

“Praise the Lord, all nations! Glorify Him, all peoples! For His faithful love to us is great; the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. Hallelujah!”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭117‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭HCSB‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/72/psa.117.1-2.HCSB

Memorial for the lost children, Peoria, 2019 Fall 40 Days for Life

“Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, children, a reward.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭127‬:‭3‬ ‭HCSB‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/72/psa.127.3.HCSB

June 2022 the Roe decision was overturned in the Dobbs decision.

Held: The Constitution does not confer a right to abortion; Roe and Casey are overruled; and the authority to regulate abortion is returned to the people and their elected representatives.” https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/19-1392_6j37.pd

June is Life Month: Celebration as warfare is CrossPolitic’s vision https://youtu.be/hzKPIa6fpE0

Learn 8 reasons why June is life month!

Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” — Declaration Of Independence, Constitution Of The United States Of America, Bill Of Rights And Constitutional Amendments by Benjamin Franklin,  Thomas Jefferson, et al. https://a.co/5b0u6Av

Celebration as Warfare: Raise A Hallelujah (Official Lyric Video) – Bethel Music, Jonathan & Melissa Helser | VICTORY

Verse 1
I raise a hallelujah, in the presence of my enemies
I raise a hallelujah, louder than the unbelief 
I raise a hallelujah, my weapon is a melody
I raise a hallelujah, Heaven comes to fight for me

Chorus
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive

Essential Prayers for Life
https://ministry.family.blog/2020/05/13/essential-prayers-for-life/ 

Prayer walk – March for Life Resources https://ministry.family.blog/2021/01/26/prayer-walk-march-for-life-resources-1-29-2021/

Prayer, public witness of the church, and proclaiming God’s truth and grace.

Why are we here (in this sin fallen world)? 
To bear witness to God and His truth and grace. 
To make disciples of all nations.
Matthew 28:18-20

Why are we here (on the sidewalk outside an abortion clinic)? 
To bear witness to God and His truth and grace. 
To love the captive soul and to preach the good news!
Romans 10:14-15

What message are we sharing and bearing witness to? 
There is a God that created the heavens and the earth.
We humans are created in His image.
We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, and justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation.
But God is merciful and loving. 
Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place.
Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation.
We need only confess our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and repent and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after!
Romans 3:10-18, 23
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
John 3:16-21
Ephesians 2:1-10

#LifeMonth

THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Household Prayer: Earth Day, Worship the Creator, Destroy Arguments

““You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; 
For You created all things, 
And by Your will they exist and were created.”” 
Revelation 4:11 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/rev.4.11.NKJV


Brothers, today I am praying, as the pagans celebrate earth day, that we teach our children about God’s creation, God’s Gospel, and Godly creation care. May God use our children as arrows to cast “down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God” (II Cor. 10:4-5). You have promised, Lord, that the earth and harvest will be sustained (Gen. 8:22). We celebrate and worship you, God our Creator and Deliverer, not the creation. You are worthy, O Lord! (Rev. 4:11).

God created the heavens and earth!

Genesis 1,2

““You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; 
For You created all things, 
And by Your will they exist and were created.”” 
Revelation 4:11 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/rev.4.11.NKJV

God created our earth and its climate and promised to sustain it. 

““While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.”” Genesis 8:22 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/gen.8.22.NKJV

By the Lord all creation is sustained.

“Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, You are very great:
You are clothed with honor and majesty…
You who laid the foundations of the earth, So that it should not be moved forever…
He appointed the moon for seasons; The sun knows its going down…
Man goes out to his work And to his labor until the evening.
O Lord, how manifold are Your works!
In wisdom You have made them all. The earth is full of Your possessions…
You hide Your face, they are troubled;
You take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.
You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; And You renew the face of the earth. May the glory of the Lord endure forever; May the Lord rejoice in His works.”
Psalms 104:1, 5, 19, 23-24, 29-31 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/psa.104.1-31.NKJV

Worship the Creator, not the creation.

“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens;
Praise Him in the heights!
Praise Him, all His angels;
Praise Him, all His hosts!
Praise Him, sun and moon;
Praise Him, all you stars of light!
Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, And you waters above the heavens!
Let them praise the name of the Lord, For He commanded and they were created.
He also established them forever and ever;
He made a decree which shall not pass away.
Praise the Lord from the earth, You great sea creatures and all the depths;
Fire and hail, snow and clouds;
Stormy wind, fulfilling His word;
Mountains and all hills;
Fruitful trees and all cedars;
Beasts and all cattle;
Creeping things and flying fowl;
Kings of the earth and all peoples;
Princes and all judges of the earth;
Both young men and maidens;
Old men and children.
Let them praise the name of the Lord, For His name alone is exalted;
His glory is above the earth and heaven.”
Psalms 148:1-13 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/psa.148.1-13.NKJV

“The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, The world and those who dwell therein… Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates! Lift up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory. Selah” Psalms 24:1, 7-10 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/psa.24.1-10.NKJV

Beware godless agendas, climate change and green agenda.

“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,” II Corinthians 10:4-5 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/2co.10.4-5.NKJV

“From guano to global warning, the green agenda is a Marxist assault on humankind driven by scare tactics clothed in junk science. It is a godless agenda that disregards your needs, lifestyle, dreams, desires, and feelings. It seeks control of your property, both physical and intellectual… The ultimate answer to authentic environmental concerns is not more laws, bigger fines, or more government control. The answer is the good news of Jesus Christ. As people turn to Him for salvation they become transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit and walk in a way that pleases Him. That, in turn, determines how they treat His creation.” (1)

The Gospel applied to creation care.

Jesus rules over the nations (Ps. 22:27-28), and all things are being reconciled to Him (Colossians 1:20). By faith (Heb. 11:1-3,4,5…) Take dominion, subdue and rule, work and keep. (Gen. 1:26-28; 2:15) Go and make disciples of all nations. (Matt. 28:18-20)

“God seldom answers a man leaning on a shovel and praying for a hole. Pray. And then get to work. Follow the pattern of Nehemiah. Pray fervently, and act more fervently still” Eric Conn 

“I know of no pursuit in which more real and important services can be rendered to any country than by improving its agriculture, its breed of useful animals, and other branches of a husbandman’s cares.” George Washington https://seedsforgenerations.com/presidents-day-sale/

“Six years you shall sow your field, and six years you shall prune your vineyard, and gather its fruit; but in the seventh year there shall be a sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a sabbath to the Lord. You shall neither sow your field nor prune your vineyard.” Leviticus 25:3-4 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/lev.25.3-4.NKJV

“‘So you shall observe My statutes and keep My judgments, and perform them; and you will dwell in the land in safety. Then the land will yield its fruit, and you will eat your fill, and dwell there in safety.” Leviticus 25:18-19 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/lev.25.18-19.NKJV

“‘If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments, and perform them, then I will give you rain in its season, the land shall yield its produce, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. Your threshing shall last till the time of vintage, and the vintage shall last till the time of sowing; you shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely.” Leviticus 26:3-5 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/lev.26.3-5.NKJV

1 Brian Sussman, “The Godless Roots of the Green Agenda”, Fight Laugh Feast, Issue 4.1, Spring 2023 https://flfnetwork.com/product-category/subscription/


THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Household Prayer: Boldness to Speak Truth

Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”” Acts 4:18-20, 23-30 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/act.4.18-30.NKJV


Brothers today I am praying for boldness of faith. Jesus rules over the nations (Ps. 22:27-28) All authority has been given to Jesus in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18) Therefore do not fall into the spirit of fear (2 Tim. 1:7), do not join in the fearful spirit of the 10 spies, but rather join in the courage of Joshua and Caleb (Num. 14). I pray we have boldness in our faith to stand in the truth and speak truth to the nations, discipling them, baptizing them, and teaching them all God has commanded.

Do not fall into a spirit of fear, but work in God’s power, brothers! “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7

Do not join the 10 fearful spies, but join in the courage of Joshua and Caleb, brothers! “If the Lord delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, ‘a land which flows with milk and honey.’ Only do not rebel against the Lord, nor fear the people of the land, for they are our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the Lord is with us. Do not fear them.”” Numbers 14:8-9 

For All authority has been given to Jesus in heaven and on earth. “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” Matthew 28:18-20

For Jesus rules over the nations! “Now therefore, be wise, O kings; Be instructed, you judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear, And rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, And you perish in the way, When His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:8-12 

So, while the heathen rage, what is the Church meant to do?
Clearly, all that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing. We can decry the encroaching darkness all we want. We can even believe that the hostile climate to Christianity is evidence that the End Times are near. But, as it so well expressed in 2 Kin 7:3, in the midst of a community that is under siege, “Why do we sit here until we die?” … Those with a pro-God worldview must become reengaged in society. They must not only vocally and politically reassert their support and approval for the public religious liberties expressions that Americans have enjoyed and cherished for four centuries, but they must also denounce those who attack and seek to abolish those liberties and expressions. If we do not, we will continue to lose them by default-by silence and inactivity. Remember that even though God told His people that He had given them the Promised Land, they still had to keep fighting the giants. In fact, the lesson of the children of Israel clearly demonstrates that if you don’t like fighting, get used to living in the wilderness; but if you want to enjoy the richness of what God has promised, learn to battle hostile forces. We must stand up and do all we can to preserve the national treasures that God has placed into our hands.” The Founders’ Bible, 2012, Shiloh Road Publishers

“So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” …

And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, who by the mouth of Your servant David have said:

‘Why did the nations rage, And the people plot vain things? The kings of the earth took their stand, And the rulers were gathered together Against the Lord and against His Christ.’

“For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”” Acts 4:18-20, 23-30 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/act.4.18-30.NKJV


THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Household Prayer: Joyful Labor for a Thousand Generations

[24] The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it… 
[26] and they will bring the glory and the honor of the nations into it; 
Revelation 21:24,26 (NASB)


Brothers I’m praying we experience joy as we labor in love. I’ve been meditating on the things of glory and honor in the nations that will be brought into the new Jerusalem (Rev. 21:26). What joy we have in our salvation. Joy that we didn’t have to earn it by works of the law. Joy that we are now free to work for/in the glory and honor of our Savior to fulfill our purpose and mission. Jesus warns the church, ““I know your WORKS” (Rev. 3:2,15) We do not know the hour of Jesus’ return and should continue working in joy and the power of the gospel for the good and future propagation of the gospel and discipleship of nations in this world for a thousand generations!

Whatever you do, “do all to the glory of God.” (I Cor. 10:31) Whatever our calling and vocation, building or supporting schools, healthcare clinics, farms, and businesses, whatever, our purpose is for the love of our neighbor and the discipleship of the nations. These good works, when motivated by love of God and neighbor, are good things. These things educate, disciple, employ, and care for neighbors, loving them as Christ commanded and can be used to point people to the gospel. The things of glory and honor in the nations will be brought into the new Jerusalem (Rev. 21:26). Rejoice in your labor brothers!


5 Important Christian Political Acts

Thread:
The most important political act Christians do is gather on the Lord’s Day to worship God according to His Word. If you gather for a rock concert, comedy hour, or pep rally, you’re part of the problem. There are no quick fixes in politics, and Jesus is not your quick hit.

The second most important political act Christians do is get married, keep covenant with their spouse till they die, and raise a troop of children who love their parents’ God, hate the devil & all his works, and are sharp & dangerous to all unbelief with their joy & creativity.

The third most important political act Christians do is build Christian schools & colleges. These are not worldly institutions with pinches of Bible. These are covenantal boot camps training our kids in the Lordship of Jesus over all things. Classical Protestantism built the West

The fourth most important political act Christians do is start businesses & services producing real goods long term for all, especially the family of God. Those who don’t start their own join others & work for Kingdom minded entrepreneurs, building generational wealth & wisdom.

The fifth most important political act Christians do is participate in the political process, starting locally and then more broadly as opportunities and gifts align. The last 2 years have woken many up to just how rotten our system has gotten; it will take generations to reform.

None of this will work if we are not saturated in all of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation applied to all of life. Secular neutrality is a myth: Christ or nothing, Christ or chaos, Christ or tyranny. And that means the forgiveness of His bloody cross at the center of it all.

Originally tweeted by Toby Sumpter (@TJSumpter) on November 9, 2022.


THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

HouseHold Prayer: ‘vote for honest men and take consistent ground in politics’ Updated!

“in your splendor ride triumphantly in the cause of truth, humility, and justice. May your right hand show your awe-inspiring acts.” Psalms 45:4 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/psa.45.4.HCSB

Brothers, today I am praying for midterm elections. I’m praying for triumph in the cause of truth (Ps. 45:4). I pray, for the love of our neighbors, that God’s truth about life, sex, marriage, gender, economics, localism (subsidiarity), and so much more would triumph. Praying our elders and pastors would be unashamed to teach God’s truth on the issues and that they would fear the Lord more than man.

“For a Christian, voting is not a right, it is a duty! So make sure and vote this election! As Charles Finney declared: ‘[T]he time has come that Christians must vote for honest men and take consistent ground in politics or the Lord will curse them.’ [Lectures on Revivals of Religion, 1858]” WallBuilders Take a Stand – Vote! https://wallbuilders.com/ 


Know where the candidates stand on the issues. Visit ChristianVoterGuide.com for information, guides, and more!

https://christianvoterguide.com


The IFI (Illinois Family Institute) 2022 Primary Election Voter Guide You will not find this information anywhere else! The online version is updated often.

https://illinoisfamily.org/ifi_news/ifi-voter-guide-resources-for-primary-election-2022/

“when God’s enemies shout that we mustn’t be political, as though this constitutes some trump card that can be used against those who claim to be Christians, we are obliged to hear in these cynical cries the voice of the devil, who similarly tried to keep Wilberforce from doing God’s will through politics and who has tried to keep God’s people from doing good at many times in history.” Eric Metaxas pg. 96 Letter to the American Church

“When Bonhoeffer said that God means the Church to be the conscience of the state, he made it clear that the Church must exist apart from the state and must be free to criticize the state if necessary. When the Church shrinks from this duty – to God and to its fellow citizens – it is not behaving as God’s Church. And when that happens, the state and everyone in it will sufffer.” Eric Metaxas pg. 102 Letter to the American Church

“Bonhoeffer eventually became so disgusted with the simplistic Lutheran idea that Christians should not be political that in ‘The Cost of Discipleship’, he wrote: ‘It is high time we broke with our theologically based restraint towards the state’s actions – which, after all, is only fear.’ Bonhoeffer’s disgust… was of course mainly that it was bad theology.” Eric Metaxas pg. 102,107 Letter to the American Church


FRC: Pray Vote Stand Pledge

“The future of America is in the hands of Christian men and women who will commit to PRAY, VOTE, and STAND for biblical principles to guide our nation. As a follower of Christ led by the Spirit of God and anchored in the Word of God, I commit to advocate and advance biblical truth in my home, workplace, school, church, community, and nation.”

Will you commit to PRAY, VOTE, and STAND for America this November? https://www.frc.org/get.cfm?c=CHECKOUT&dmy=B67634D9-C2D6-F7F3-10C158D6793709B3&srcItem=PT22I01&fromItem=FN22J01&x=0


Midterm Elections Will Determine the Nation’s Path
Read: Proverbs 14:34; Daniel 2:20-21; Proverbs 21:1; Deuteronomy 1:13
“Pray for Christians to pray, vote, and stand as the midterm elections approach. Pray for Bible-believing, Bible-teaching churches to boldly address our cultural moment, equipping believers to think–and act–biblically on issues like life, marriage, family, economy, and education.” (FRC Prayer Post, 10/25/2022) 

https://washingtonstand.com/news/midterm-elections-will-determine-the-nations-path


The Founders’ Bible, 2012, Shiloh Road Publishers

THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Vote! Mid-Term 2022


The IFI 2022 Primary Election Voter Guide You will not find this information anywhere else! The online version is updated often.

https://illinoisfamily.org/ifi_news/ifi-voter-guide-resources-for-primary-election-2022/


FRC: Pray Vote Stand Pledge

“The future of America is in the hands of Christian men and women who will commit to PRAY, VOTE, and STAND for biblical principles to guide our nation. As a follower of Christ led by the Spirit of God and anchored in the Word of God, I commit to advocate and advance biblical truth in my home, workplace, school, church, community, and nation.”

Will you commit to PRAY, VOTE, and STAND for America this November? https://www.frc.org/get.cfm?c=CHECKOUT&dmy=B67634D9-C2D6-F7F3-10C158D6793709B3&srcItem=PT22I01&fromItem=FN22J01&x=0


Midterm Elections Will Determine the Nation’s Path
Read: Proverbs 14:34; Daniel 2:20-21; Proverbs 21:1; Deuteronomy 1:13
“Pray for Christians to pray, vote, and stand as the midterm elections approach. Pray for Bible-believing, Bible-teaching churches to boldly address our cultural moment, equipping believers to think–and act–biblically on issues like life, marriage, family, economy, and education.” (FRC Prayer Post, 10/25/2022) https://washingtonstand.com/news/midterm-elections-will-determine-the-nations-path

“Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands, to execute vengeance on the nations and punishments on the peoples, to bind their kings with chains and their nobles with fetters of iron, to execute on them the judgment written! This is honor for all his godly ones. Praise the Lord!”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭149‬:‭6‬-‭9‬ ‭ESV‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/59/psa.149.6-9.ESV


Could we take America back?? https://youtu.be/SVsWaOsKqw8


Why Everyone Needs An AR-15 https://youtu.be/3dIsy3sZI2Y

“Once again, various gun control groups are pushing for a national Assault Weapon Ban that specifically targets AR-15s. Does the AR-15 deserve all this hate? Does the argument for restricting “military-style rifle” ownership hold up? Isaac Botkin walks through the history of every step of small arms weapon development to see if there is a case for this.”


We are IN TROUBLE. Here’s WHY. https://youtu.be/1QIPERzwgqM

Why are we in trouble? Soft men.

Men: train, fight dragons, slay giants, protect your children, stand up for truth, justice, and the American way.


Fear God, Make disciples, Protect your family!


“When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he assembled his 318 trained men, born in his household, and went in pursuit as far as Dan.” Genesis‬ ‭14:14‬ ‭CSB‬‬ 

“The right to life is a good example of what legal historians refer to as an objective right: it is objective in the sense that it exists outside ourselves and is unalienable… The right to life imposes obligations: you must do everything in your power to preserve it.”
#SlayingLeviathan https://canonpress.com/products/slaying-leviathan/


AMENDMENT II 

A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

https://ministry.family.blog/america/second-amendment/


“Religion and liberty must flourish or fall together in America. We pray that both may be perpetual.” Pastor William Smith, Christ Church Philadelphia, 1775

Bringing Back the Black Robed Regiment, Dan Fisher, 2015

“God grant that in America true religion and civil liberty may be inseparable, and that the unjust attempts to destroy the one, may in the issue tend to the support and establishment of both.” John Witherspoon, 1776

Bringing Back the Black Robed Regiment, Dan Fisher, 2015

“And if our religion is given up, all the liberty we boast of will soon be gone.” Samuel Langdon, 1788

Bringing Back the Black Robed Regiment, Dan Fisher, 2015

American Constitution
AMENDMENT II 
A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

Militia: an army composed of citizens… called up in time of emergency. (Webster’s 2010)

There are four places in the American Constitution that affirm the Militia’s prior existence, and no law can alter it. The militia is all able bodied members of a community.

Article I, Section 8, Clauses 15 & 16:

[The Congress shall have Power To…]

Clause 15: [ ] “To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions;”

Clause 16: [ ] “To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress;”

Article II, Section 2, Clause 1:

“The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States…”

AMENDMENT II

A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

From the Founders… Original Intent

“[T]he said Constitution [should] be never construed … to prevent the people of the United States, who are peaceable citizens, from keeping their own arms.”
SAMUEL ADAMS, Signer of the Declaration, “Father of the American Revolution” …

“A free people ought … to be armed.”
GEORGE WASHINGTON, US. President, Signer of the Constitution …

“[N]o man should scruple or hesitate a moment to use arms in defense.”
GEORGE WASHINGTON, US. President, Signer of the Constitution …

“The people are not to be disarmed of their weapons. They are left in full possession of them…. This is a principle which secures religious liberty most firmly.”
ZECHARIAH JOHNSTON, Revolutionary Soldier, Virginia Legislator, Ratifier of the U.S. Constitution

“I am thus far a Quaker [a pacifist]: I would gladly agree with all the world to lay aside the use of arms and settle matters by negotiation; but unless the whole will, the matter ends, and I take up my musket and thank Heaven He has put it in my power.
THOMAS PAINE, Patriot, Author

Quotes from “The Second Amendment” by David Barton


THE GOOD NEWS

There is a God that created the heavens and the earth. We humans are created in His image.

We are sinners, we have rebelled against Him, our Creator. Our rebellion has brought “all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice… envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness” to the world. Romans 1:29-31 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.1.29-31.ESV

Therefore we justly deserve our due punishment of death and damnation, “as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.’” Romans 3:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.3.10-12.ESV

But good news! God is merciful and loving. Jesus is God the only begotten Son and He took our punishment upon Himself in our place. Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and securing the hope of our salvation. 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1co.15.3-8.ESV

“Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”” Acts 2:36-38 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/act.2.36-38.ESV

We need only repent and believe it. Repent: turn away from our sins, proclaim Jesus is lord and savior, and we will be forgiven our sins and have life ever after! “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.”” Romans 10:9-11 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.10.9-11.ESV

There is hope. Believe in Jesus! ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.16.ESV 

It doesn’t matter who you’ve been or what you’ve done, God stands with arms wide open, ready to forgive you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/1jn.1.9.ESV

Pray for the Church in China 2022-08

Pray for our brothers and sisters in China.

“US Christians Visit ‘MayFlower Church’ to Block Chinese Regime from Kidnapping Religious Refugees” https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2022/august/us-christians-visit-mayflower-church-in-s-korea-to-block-chinese-regime-from-kidnapping-religious-refugees

“According to the persecution watchdog group ChinaAid, “Mayflower Church” is a group of 60 believers from Shenzhen Holy Reformed that fled China for Jeju Island, South Korea.”
 
“”Our church would educate our children about our religious beliefs, and the police would come along and force them to enroll in school so they could be brainwashed,” founding pastor Pan Yongguang said. 

“They didn’t want us to teach our children the Bible, and children are banned from attending church. This went against our faith and our consciences,” he told Union of Catholic Asian News, earlier this year…”

“ChinaAid and its partners are asking the U.S. government to step in against China’s communist regime and help resettle the Mayflower Church in America.”

“’Worst Clampdown Since the Cultural Revolution’: Watchdog Says 3 Churches Raided in China, Leaders Arrested” http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/cwn/2022/august/worst-clampdown-since-the-cultural-revolution-watchdog-says-3-churches-raided-in-china-leaders-arrested

“At least three house churches in China were raided by Chinese authorities recently with their leaders being arrested and detained on trumped-up charges…”

“The latest series of crackdowns come a week after Chengdu-based Early Rain Covenant Church and Beijing Zion Church saw their members arrested during a Sunday service. It is unclear why Beijing has launched this new wave of crackdowns on house churches, the ICC reports…”

“”Xi Jinping’s regime is fearful of many things; one thing being people with religious beliefs,” said Gina Goh, ICC’s Regional Manager for Southeast Asia. ”They want to ensure Chinese citizens are loyal to the CCP’s ideology and nothing else. This fear translates into church crackdown, ‘re-education camps’ for Uyghurs, and demolition of Buddhist statues. House churches are bracing themselves for potentially the worst clampdown since the Cultural Revolution.””

““Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/mat.5.10-12.ESV

China’s Social Credit System

Liberal World Order, Elites Plan to Confiscate Farms, What we can do – Jesus is Lord of all!

a war is taking place against farmers and ranchers, especially those who are independent or those who are not part of the system. ‘They want to remove small farmers, even medium farmers, from their land, and they want to bring it all under the control of these… fascistic public-private partnerships.'” https://link.theepochtimes.com/mkt_app/alex-newman-explains-un-agenda-2030-behind-farming-restrictions_4608476.html

Picture of farmer protests in the Netherlands.

““They set up kings, but not by Me; They made princes, but I did not acknowledge them. From their silver and gold They made idols for themselves— That they might be cut off.” Hosea 8:4 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/hos.8.4.NKJV

Confess and repent of sin. Worship the one true God. Declare His glory among the nations. Take dominion and make disciples of all nations!

“Sow for yourselves righteousness; Reap in mercy; Break up your fallow ground, For it is time to seek the Lord, Till He comes and rains righteousness on you.” Hosea 10:12 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/hos.10.12.NKJV

# Tyranny, crime, and other evils
“The kings of the earth set themselves… against the Lord and against his Anointed… He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision.” Psalm 2:1-4 ESV https://bible.com/bible/59/psa.2.1-4.ESV

If people want to prevent food supply from being used as a tool to control them, they need to find alternative sources of food locally, Newman said. “You need to have a relationship with the local farmers in your community, get to the local farmers market, deal with the local farmersif you have agricultural land, do not sell out to these people. They’re trying to bribe the farmers to leave their land.

https://link.theepochtimes.com/mkt_app/alex-newman-explains-un-agenda-2030-behind-farming-restrictions_4608476.html

What do we do? Pray! -and- We must, by all means, support local farmers and livestock producers!

Confess and repent of sin. Worship the one true God. Declare His glory among the nations. Take dominion and make disciples of all nations!

Chose to buy meat and produce from local producers.

Buy local! It may cost a little more than Walmart or Amazon, but consider:
* it is an investment in your neighbor, showing your love toward them
* it is an investment in your liberty and the liberty of your children and their children!
* It is an investment in your health. Knowing where your food comes from and how it is produced

Share local resources with your church fellowship so whole local fellowships support and pray for local food producers. Perhaps start local food banks and soup kitchens.

Even more so if they are brothers in the faith. If they are in a local church fellowship, then rejoice in paying them a true and fair price that they may prosper and be a blessing to the community.

“You should go into every business relationship with a brother looking to give something additional, rather than to get something additional. Don’t expect discounts because you are a brother. Try, when possible, to give something additional because he’s a brother… This spirit of grace and generosity does not take Mammon out of your hands, but it most certainly takes you out of Mammon’s hands.” Gashmu Saith It: How to build Christian communities that save the world, by Douglas Wilson https://canonpress.com/products/gashmu-saith-it/

“The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.” Proverbs 11:25 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/pro.11.25.NKJV

Get to know the local owners and operators of farms and livestock personally.

Pray for their well being and success, and let them know you are praying for them.

Start a garden.

Every home have a garden. Like the “victory gardens” of old. Start a farm or livestock herd if you can. Gardener, “those professionals who work the soil but do not as a general rule rely on heavy machinery.”, is # 5 of the top 20 durable trades. https://a.co/ek9jv5Q

“Victory gardens were vegetable gardens planted during the world wars in order to ensure an adequate food supply for civilians and troops. Government agencies, private foundations, businesses, schools, and seed companies all worked together to provide land, instruction, and seeds for individuals and communities to grow food.” https://gardens.si.edu/gardens/victory-garden/

“Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.” Genesis 2:15 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/gen.2.15.NKJV

“Build houses and dwell in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit. Take wives and beget sons and daughters.. And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace.” Jeremiah 29:5-7 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/jer.29.5-7.NKJV

Inform your civil magistrate, who is under the authority of Jesus (Romans 13:1,4).

Urge civil magistrates (county board, mayor, governor) to support and protect local agriculture, farms, and livestock producers. Ask your local, state, and national representatives to protect them! As God’s minister they must be informed by the Church of God’s truth and grace. And what is the Church but we the living stones!

If you love your neighbor and do not want to see them fall victim to these wicked schemes of total global control, population control, and mass starvation, then you must be be involved!

I don’t think anyone denies that the climate is changing. The climate does change. It may even change wildly over hundreds and thousands of years like the magnetic poles. I do deny the elites of globalism like the UN and WEF that promise to “fix” the climate if we allow them to take away our personal liberty and property. That is a sin.

“For he is God’s minister to you for good… for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.” Romans 13:4 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/rom.13.4.NKJV

Provide for your family, church, and community.

Water, food, shelter, security!

“But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” I Timothy 5:8 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/1ti.5.8.NKJV

Love your neighbor and love one another.


Biden admin literally said “This is about the future of the liberal world order”

“Brian Deese, President Biden’s Director of National Economic Council… said. “This is about the future of the liberal world order and we have to stand firm.” https://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2022/06/30/biden_economic_adviser_on_high_gas_prices_this_is_about_the_future_of_the_liberal_world_order.html

“The White House openly stated that you’re just going to have to pay more in gas so that they can hold the “liberal world order” together and it barely registers as breaking news. They’re telling you EVERYTHING they plan to do and most don’t even care. WAKE UP!” – Lauren Boebert

https://twitter.com/laurenboebert/status/1542878771862192132?s=21&t=Si1YTp9gniDWS_6wYedgXw

The Chinese regime forces peasants to move to megacities, farmers are killed in South Africa, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States proposed a new rule that could bankrupt small and medium farmers.

https://link.theepochtimes.com/mkt_app/alex-newman-explains-un-agenda-2030-behind-farming-restrictions_4608476.html

Biden’s Environmental Extremism
https://www.cwfpac.com/thursday-july-21-2022-real-threat-pro-abortion-left-bidens-environmental-extremism

Biden’s policies are deliberately driving up energy prices… What Americans need to understand is that this administration and their left-wing allies are at war with Middle Americaall in on the green agenda’…  What Can Germany Teach Us? … the green movement is on steroids in Germany… shutdown Germany’s coal plantsshut down Germany’s nuclear plants…  And the German government, which followed the “green agenda,” has few options… Germany is now preparing to ration natural gas by 15%.”

Why Communist China Is Smiling 
https://www.cwfpac.com/thursday-july-21-2022-real-threat-pro-abortion-left-bidens-environmental-extremism

“as Joe Biden demands we go green, communist China has a lock on everything necessary to “go green.”  They have a lock on solar panels.  They have a lock on battery manufacturing.  They have a lock on rare earth minerals.  In fact, communist China has a lock on rare earth minerals thanks in part because Hunter Biden helped Beijing land big deals in Africa.  A lot of really smart, non-ideological people who study geopolitics and historical trends are warning that the wars in the future will be fought over control of natural resources.  Countries will go to war over a desperate need for those resources. As we enter an era of natural resource wars, Joe Biden is destroying our advantage in natural resources and is making us dependent on communist China.”


Chinese-Owned Company Buys Up Farmland Near Strategic U.S. Airbase

Chinese-Owned Company Buys Up Farmland Near Strategic U.S. Airbase, Alarming Senators https://washingtonstand.com/news/chineseowned-company-buys-up-farmland-near-strategic-us-airbase-alarming-senators

“U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), and John Hoeven (R-N.D.) wrote July 14 to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), expressing concern over ‘Chinese food manufacturer Fufeng Group’s recent purchase of roughly 370 acres of land near Grand Forks, North Dakota.’ … The purchase was strategically located ‘approximately 12 miles from Grand Forks Air Force Base,’ argued the senators, raising concerns ‘that Fufeng operations could provide cover for PRC surveillance or interference with the missions located at that installation, given Fufeng Group’s reported ties to the Chinese Communist Party.’ … ‘Why would we let them come to our own country and buy up precious farmland that we need to feed our folks, [and to] use as exports to feed our allies?’ Perkins asked Cramer. Cramer responded, ‘We shouldn’t.'”


Dutch Farmers Are Rebelling Against ‘Great Reset,’

#Farmers #Netherlands #farms On the Ground With the Farmers Blockade; True Reason Why Elites Plan to Confiscate Land | Trailer https://youtu.be/dTtPrM4NB3U 

“We are in the village of Erbeek in the Netherlands. This is the site of one of several dozen farmers’ protests that have sprung up across the entire country. These are real grassroots protests. They’re not really coordinated and there’s no top-down structure, but they’re just springing up everywhere. They are being initiated by farmers who are seeing new government regulations that are being proposed in the parliament as something of a death sentence for their farms: between 30 percent to 50 percent of farms might actually close down if these regulations go into effect.”


Dutch Farmers Are Rebelling Against ‘Great Reset,’ Politician Says https://www.theepochtimes.com/mkt_app/dutch-farmers-are-rebelling-against-great-reset-says-leading-politician_4589421.html

Dutch farmers are fighting the globalist “Great Reset” agenda through their protests against aggressive new government climate policies… ‘the people governing this country are following the script written by the EU, to realize what they call a Great Reset. They want to make us more dependent on international supply chains. They want to weaken Dutch sovereignty and autonomy.’”

Dutch farmers are fighting the globalist “Great Reset” agenda through their protests against aggressive new government climate policies

https://www.theepochtimes.com/mkt_app/dutch-farmers-are-rebelling-against-great-reset-says-leading-politician_4589421.html

Agenda 2030 – Farming Restrictions – Elite Global Overlords

Alex Newman Explains UN Agenda 2030 Behind Farming RestrictionsREAD THIS FULL ARTICLE! https://link.theepochtimes.com/mkt_app/alex-newman-explains-un-agenda-2030-behind-farming-restrictions_4608476.html

“The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for sustainable development informs government policies to restrict farming and transform the food systems in different parts of the world, said Alex Newman, an award-winning international journalist who has covered this issue for over a decade… The 2030 Agenda “covers every element of human life, every element of the economy,” including global wealth redistribution not only within the nations but also among the nations, Newman commented. The Agenda “specifically says that we need to change the way that we consume and produce goods,” he added… Newman said that, in his view, the U.N. ultimately wants to get rid of private land ownership. “We see this all over the world. This is not just happening in the Netherlands… He thinks that a war is taking place against farmers and ranchers, especially those who are independent or those who are not part of the system. “They want to remove small farmers, even medium farmers, from their land, and they want to bring it all under the control of these—I think there’s no other term to describe it—fascistic public-private partnerships.” Newman noted some examples to illustrate his opinion: The Chinese regime forces peasants to move to megacities, farmers are killed in South Africa, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States proposed a new rule that could bankrupt small and medium farmers.

If people want to prevent food supply from being used as a tool to control them, they need to find alternative sources of food locally, Newman said. “You need to have a relationship with the local farmers in your community, get to the local farmers market, deal with the local farmers, come up with some agreement,” such as getting delivery of fresh, seasonal produce from the local farms for 100 bucks a week, he said… “If you have agricultural land, do not sell out to these people. They’re trying to bribe the farmers to leave their land.””


Illinois: Darren Bailey for Governor!

“Friends, this race is about jobs and crime and on those issues voters know JB Pritzker has failed us all. To everyone who feels over-taxed, over-regulated, and ignored by Springfield, I hear you. Because I am you.” https://youtu.be/GW3nCMGfT3Ehttps://baileyforillinois.com

https://baileyforillinois.com

Have You Ever Heard of Unobtanium?? https://youtu.be/bOUUk5REbiU


“When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he assembled his 318 trained men, born in his household, and went in pursuit as far as Dan.” Genesis‬ ‭14:14‬ ‭CSB‬‬ 

“The right to life is a good example of what legal historians refer to as an objective right: it is objective in the sense that it exists outside ourselves and is unalienable… The right to life imposes obligations: you must do everything in your power to preserve it.”
#SlayingLeviathan https://canonpress.com/products/slaying-leviathan/


AMENDMENT II 

A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

https://ministry.family.blog/america/second-amendment/


The latest Gabs from Mick Dobra (@mickdobra). Glorify God, share the Gospel, protect your family…