Thursday, September 28, 2006

Volume 2, Issue 34


Volume 2, Issue 34 - September 28, 2006




Exclusive Interview: “American Heritage Party’s” Dan Eby Discusses The Need For Explicitly Christian Party

On a recent “The American View” radio show we interviewed Dan Eby, National Chairman of “The American Heritage Party.” Here is an edited version of what Brother Eby had to say. — J.L.

Some biographical information: “The name Eby is a Swiss name. Our predecessors came over to the continent in the 1600’s. I was born and raised in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and became a Pastor in two churches — one in Pennsylvania and one in New York in the 1970’s and 80’s. The first one was a Mennonite Church and that’s the background I came out of and it’s been a long journey since then, but the second one was a Covenant Church. So, the bottom line is we began to develop a real burden for the family and the children and the parents because the state of the churches was in such a state of disarray. And so Lord began to develop a burden for us for making a difference in family’s lives and we moved into the area of Christian education. In 1994 we moved to Washington State and we were doing home school seminars and actually became involved in the Republican Party back in the 1980s.

His awakening: “I just have to say that God took us through it. When Colin Powell in 1996 stood up [at the GOP Convention] and said I’m pro-choice and I’m for affirmative action and the entire convention floor erupted in applause for Colin Powell, I said, “What are we doing here?” And that was the beginning of the journey saying, Christ has to be at the root, at the foundation and so a number of other individuals and I joined together and we discovered that there was others that were willing to be involved in applying Christian principles to politics and we started “TAHP” as a state party, in the state of Washington.

“It was under the larger national party called the National Taxpayer’s Party, which eventually became the Constitution Party. So, we labored in that vineyard and began to raise up candidates and tried to discern what is a political party and eventually we came to realize that we’re not in unity with the Constitution Party. In 1999 we disaffiliated from them, and began to put a lot of time into discovering and putting in a foundation of what an explicitly Christian political party would look like, and we formed “TAHP” as a national Christian party in the year 2000 in the state of Washington where our family convention was.

Why he disaffiliated from the “Constitution Party:" “The structure of the “CP” was — in essence what we discovered was to run a presidential candidate every four years.And we began to see that there wasn’t a focus on building locally.And our concern was to build from the bottom up and to equip families to run for an office locally.We felt that the emphasis ought to be locally vs. national.That was one of the issues — we also felt that there was a number of different faiths that were in the same party there, and there was in essence a different direction that each of these different groups were taking. We weren’t united in the same Christian principles. What can you say? Some times you get a group of Constitutionalists together and they’re not facing the same direction as what a Biblically-based Christian ought to be thinking.

“We felt that focusing on the top all of the time — focusing every four years on the presidency and only having a few individuals in each state will run the leadership of the party — there’s something wrong with that picture.But even more importantly was that just as the founders of Harvard said that Christ had to be on the bottom of the foundation of the organization, we felt that Christ and His word, the scriptures have to be at the foundation of every thing that we do.And I think that’s an exciting concept because it starts to help people to understand that you can take the Bible and you can apply it to every area of life including civil government and politics.

“So, what does that mean? So, you discover you know, what your positions are on different things and I guess that the burden we carry is that leadership and community ought to be Godly because God’s word gives us the wisdom and knowledge we need to affect sound public policy.And that’s the burden we have, to raise up Godly statesmen and to allow families to be equipped to support those statesmen and to see God’s word advanced into every area of life.

No sacred/secular distinction: “The difficulty is that for most Christians there’s this dichotomy in life where there’s this distinction between sacred and secular.So we live and go to church and we practice our Christianity or faith lets say in a church meeting or Bible study but somehow that faith but somehow that faith is not getting applied to the daily life or where we live in society or our vocation and our civil government and the community around us.”

The name of his Party: “For us it was a clear evidence that in our heritage it was a Christian heritage and by using the term “American Heritage” it was going to be a teaching tool for us to began to show Americans as uniquely Christian. As we go back through the early founding era — starting with 1620, the covenants that were made between each colony and the God of heaven - were to be able to show them that we indeed had a Christian history. So, we felt that the name “American Heritage” was indeed a tool for us to help Americans understand what that covenant was.And because the nation has violated those covenants, we are calling men back to accountability to the covenants that were made at that time.So, when we talk about America’s Christian history, it’s an educational tool.Sure, we could name our party the “American Christian Heritage Party,” and it would be explicitly in the name as well, but my name is Dan Eby, and I’m an Eby and my sons are named Eby and we’re an explicitly Christian family and that’s why we did it, and that’s why [the word “Christian”] didn’t get used [in the name of the Party.]

Need Godly men in office: “Right, well let’s go back to the fact that we live in a Constitutional Republic and that from the county to the state to the national geographic distinctions, we are having people get elected to office, and so we want to have ability to have Godly men, who are well equipped to know the Godly principles the Bible teaches to run for office so we could be an educational organization and simply promote those principles and it would stop there.

**”But, we needed a vehicle and we should have a vehicle to represent those that are well trained in the Christian body of believers and the Christian body of faith and wisdom to be able to go to a county or to a township even, or all the way to the state level of government and run for elections.So we live in a civil government that has these different levels of government and a political party allows you to elect those people and to promote who you are and what your vision is to the populous around.”

Need for a Christian Party: “We clearly felt that there needs to be a Christian political party because there are the Republicans and the Greens the Libertarians and the Democrats, and the only reason that the Republicans and the Democrats are so big is because they’re organized in so many counties — they’ve been around for awhile.But the alternative, of course, is to not have a political party and to just educate.But, what do you do with that? What if somebody wants to run for office? Well, by having a Christian organization in its realm, that actually has as one of its purposes to elect leaders — men into office — that political party allows you to do that.It allows you to function in that way — a national Christian party whose purpose is to elect Christian leaders.”

The experience of the Party: “We have been — you know each state has its own type of political party requirements.In the state of Washington, for example, an independent or third party has to meet at a convention with at least 200 people, and we can be on the ballot; less than that for county or local offices.We have run candidates at the Congressional level — when we were just a state party we have run.Since we are a national party in the state of Washington, the state party has run candidates for the Legislature, has gotten as much as 24% of the vote — in a county commissioner’s race we came within 15 votes of winning the election in a three way race.

“So we have had some good experiences, but our primary effort has to put in place a scaffold to actually build this as a Christian political party across the United States, and so we’ve developed four things — our foundation, our message, our strategy and our hope.We lay out the convictions that we have, and why it’s so important to have the Bible applied into civil government and the political arena.”

Founded on God’s Word: “Sure, so these distinctives, when you talk about the foundation — we talk about God’s word as the holy Bible, is the absolute authority upon which our principles rest, and so that obviously shows that we expressly intend to be Christian.We recognize it as a political blueprint for political action.I mean there are issues there, that when Jesus talked about no man can serve two masters we felt that we have one master — the Lord Jesus Christ and as the Christian, the way I lead my family, the way I work in my business and the way I get involved in political action has to be inherently Christian — has to be honoring to Christ and so, we have that foundation we have.

“As a party we covenant together with other believers to work in the cultural arena — the political arena, and this allows us to demonstrate our faith in God and avoid being unequally yoked in secular, political alliances.Remember when I talked about being in the Republican party I felt like I was in a canoe rowing in one direction for a Christian purpose and I find that the guys in the other end are rowing in the other direction.”

Christians ignorant of our foundations: “It’s the quandary we’re in.We have a nation of unbelievers — we have a nation of even Christians who don’t know what the foundations are.For the place that we’re at is we have to educate, we have to teach and we have to lead by example.And how does the Christian faith get applied? So, that all of a sudden people look at us and say, “Why do you live differently and why are you acting that way? ” And it gives them an opportunity to say to them, look, if you call yourself a Christian, then that Christian belief has to be demonstrated in your life, and then that’s the heart of it.”

The Party’s voter clubs: “The voter clubs — we pulled a lot of our ideas from other Christian political parties from history and around the world.Voter clubs were in existence in Abraham Kyper’s day. He developed a party called the anti-revolutionary party.It was a Christian political party in the Netherlands.He actually grew to the point where he became the Prime Minister of the Netherlands. He set the foundation for understanding what the French Revolution was all about.Good stuff, but bringing out voter’s clubs is what we thought was a great idea for the communities that we live in get together and actually study these biblical ideas of government and actually work together to educate themselves in the Christian principles of civil government. And then they can work of course to help provide support for candidates.Voter clubs were mean to be a tool for education and service in the community where families could get together to decide to do things in their community that would make a difference.

The purpose of their Christian statesmanship curriculum: “Well, the purpose first of all, since we are a Christian political party is — the first purpose is to educate the potential leaders and nominees for public office of the vast amount of truth that’s in the word of God, as it’s applied to law, government, history, nations, and so we have a sixty hour video tape that is now available with accompanying text books.

“I do want to mention that our first step, the statesmanship textbook is the level one text book, in the studies in principles field, and we have speakers like RC Sproul, Jr., Herb Titus, Steven McBell, Marshall Foster, and others who wrote a chapter in that book, are also videotaped with a one hour lecture.We have accompanying textbooks with videotape that help people to begin to understand the application of God’s Word to all areas of life.And that’s the Study of Christian Statesmanship and that’s to equip potential leaders of the party as well as potential nominees for public office, so that they would have to be skilled in understanding these things before they could even be nominated for office.”

Christians must be prepared to take office: “We think that just because someone’s a Christian we can put them in civil government and he gets elected into the Republican Party, the Constitution Party or any Party and he doesn’t know what he’s doing and two years later his votes aren’t the same as what he said he would vote for. They compromise.

“Well, we felt that there has to be extreme accountability and guess where that accountability comes from? It comes from the Old Testament, from Deuteronomy, it comes from the New Testament in First Timothy, and other scriptures that actually lay out the scriptures for elders at the gate, or elders in the church, as well as in the civil government.

“And so that preparation ought to be serious and the person ought to take the time whether he wants to run for mayor of town, wants to run for county commissioner, or township supervisor, to be able to understand Biblical principles of government and be able to articulate them, and the fact that he has to come with his references from his community to say that these men can testify to his integrity and the fact that he is a good man and that he is walking by Christian principles and his family has the moral and Christian character they ought to have.

“When Christ gets a hold of your life, you begin to ponder what are the implications to life, and as you read the Old Testament and New Testament there are implications to the faith, which we’ve adopted as we’ve allowed the Christ to come into our heart, and by His grace He has come in, but there is going to be a difference.”

Must think like Christians: “That’s the problem we have today — we’ve all been educated in government schools, and we’ve all been educated by a humanist mindset, we have a secular view even as Christians we do, and so we get into these civil government positions and we have this conflict. You know it’s a difficult thing and we have to correct these errors.”

Need to acknowledge Lordship of Christ: “Well, the difficulty is that if you don’t confess the Lordship of Jesus Christ over nations you don’t understand the fear of the Lord which is the beginning of knowledge. And we definitely need a body of Christian wisdom and knowledge which comes from the fear of the Lord. And our contention and I believe our contention should be is that Christ is Lord over all the nations and that should bow our knees to the knowledge and wisdom that comes out of the scripture.

“Fuzzy morality will not hold up in time and eternity.You know one of the difficulties that we have is we think that to be broadly a Christian is to be conservative and I do want to highlight this concept that there’s a difference between being biblical and being conservative.In other words, the debate shouldn’t be between are you a liberal or are you a conservative — it’s are you of full Christian belief, and if you are not, you are going to be an unbeliever, because you aren’t going to be believing in the truth of God’s word.So, there’s a bigger debate than just between are you a liberal or a conservative? Most people would consider themselves to be conservative in America today, but the problem is that they’re conserving what? What are you conserving?
“We consider that liberalism and conservatism are two sides to the same coin.They look a little different, but when you get to the bottom — at the root of it, they’re all the same.”

“Think about the founding era of our country and that some of the state constitutions actually required that you be a Christian believer before you could even run for office and those are some of the foundations and so when we think about that type of a concept when we think about an oath or a qualification, that’s powerful, because who would you rather have be the governor of a state? A Christian or a non-Christian? A Christian, drawing from the vast body of wisdom from the scripture, is going to be able to discern and deliver public policy in a way that’s going to free that area and that state from the bondages within.”

http://www.americanheritageparty.org/

Discuss this article at The American View Forum:
http://www.theamericanview.com/forums/showthread.php?p=11232

Source:
http://www.theamericanview.com/index.php?id=704

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Religious cleansing

By Wayne Harris


Imagine a time when all American Christians are taken to the square and beheaded. This would be a nightmare for Christians and a dream come true for their murderers. To wipe out all vestiges Jesus Christ is the goal of the enemies of Jesus Christ. In some parts of the world, such as Sudan, this goal is being vigorously pursued.

Could “religious cleansing” take place in America? When a movement is afoot to brainwash people into believing that the Bible is hate literature be assured that it could. Logic leads a person from believing that the Bible is hate literature to silencing those that proclaim God’s Word as hate mongers. And how do they accomplish that?

One way to cleanse America is to shut down the churches and the airwaves. Is this possible? Pass a few anti-Christian laws and the church will be forced underground.

It was not all that difficult for Adolf Hitler and his thugs to shut down the Jews in Germany. With his brainwashed troops he managed to destroy their faith roots in Germany and take their businesses away. He portrayed Jews as the enemy of the state. Herding them up and sending them off to concentration camps was deemed to be righteous by many.

Why did the German people sit back and watch the Jews fall into Hitler’s abyss? Some did not act on the Jews’ behalf because they were afraid. People who helped Jews disappeared. Also, Hitler was an imposing figure. He ruled with an iron fist. Others believed Hitler’s propaganda. They backed him one hundred percent. Anti-Semitism was no problem for them. Mixed with the prevalent bigotry was the belief that Hitler was right about Jews being evil.

One television comedian chides people of faith as having psychiatric problems. Unite such trash talk with the theory that the Bible is hate literature. You have a potential explosion of persecution brewing. Global anti-Semitism adds fuel to this ungodly assault.

Why were Romans able to stand and cheer when lions ripped Christians to shreds in the Roman Circus? How could they be smug as they watched God’s children being ripped apart by horses pulling from opposite ends on ropes tied to the Christians’ hands? They had a superior attitude. They were certain that they were superior to those that humbly worshiped Jesus Christ.

This same smug attitude is surfacing in America. Some of the secular media portrays Christians as sub-human. Political correctness does not include being civil towards Christians. In fact, political correctness stifles Christian expression. One of my family members was told to remove his faith symbol at work. They were not allowed to wear any religious paraphernalia. I call that persecution in the guise of P.C.

My point is that we must not give ground. We must stand firm. We must oppose all anti-Semitic propaganda. We must stand up for free exercise of religion in our nation. If a demagogue appears with an agenda that smells like the nonsense Hitler spewed out in “Mein Kampf” toss him or her out on his or her head. Do not allow an inch to any leader who is fueled by demonic power. We know what will happen if he or she is allowed to reign. Study what Hitler stirred in the earth. Go to the graves (or ashes) of six million Jews. Visit the headstones of the thousands of young Americans who died eradicating Hitler’s rule. If given enough time and weapons, he would have destroyed every Jewish soul on earth.

There are those in 2006 who would destroy every Jewish soul, if possible. They would also send the Christians into the furnaces with them. Evil is their driver.

Ah, but remember one thing. There is a God! He has always kept a remnant. Read Ezra and see what happened after a period of captivity under King Nebuchadnezzar. The Israelites had been taken captive from their homes in Israel. Ezra tells about their return home.

God will have representation on this earth. They cannot stop God’s will. The church will be here until Jesus comes for her.

Here is my advice to religious cleansers. Give it up! It is a lost cause.

I love to hear what you have to say. Write me at: weharris44@hotmail.com

Wayne Harris is a graduate of Mars Hill College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree in theology . He served as a Chaplain in the U.S. Army, and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm. He is a journalist for the Tribune Papers in Asheville, Hendersonville and Weaverville, North Carolina. He hosts a television program on Channel 10 in Asheville, NC, "The Wayne Harris Show". In his columns he comments on issues of the day with a biblical perspective.

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Texas Case Involving Marital Counseling Is Latest to Test Line Between Church and State

By RALPH BLUMENTHAL

Published: September 27, 2006

HOUSTON, Sept. 26 — Peggy Lee Penley’s marriage was going sour when she turned to her pastor. They had been friends for years and had started a Bible church together in Fort Worth. He was more than Ms. Penley’s spiritual shepherd, also serving as a licensed professional counselor, and had helped her before.


But Ms. Penley says that after she confided her sexual relationship with another man and her plans for divorce, the pastor, C. L. Westbrook Jr., disclosed her “biblically inappropriate relationship” to church elders. Mr. Westbrook eventually informed the full congregation of the church, CrossLand Community Bible, she says, shaming her publicly and urging members to discipline her by shunning her.

In 2001, Ms. Penley sued her pastor for defamation and negligence, saying he had violated his responsibilities as a professional counselor. Her lawsuit has attracted considerable attention from church groups trying to prevent court intervention in religious matters. The case went before the Texas Supreme Court on Tuesday, and the outcome will once again help define the evolving line between church and state.

Please read more here.

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Post

UN-DEVIL'S DEN- The UN is the center world error/conflict. Michael Savage and others are finally calling the global conflict what it is following my early observation: the M-M Axis seeking the end of the US is that of a alliance of convenience by Marxist Hugo Chavez and his allies and the Moslem dictator AhMADinejad of the Iran empire. Simple

~

1.PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH, THE NICE- He has not defended the insults to our country and President by the M/M verbal attack at the UN. Do you think he and his global-liberal party will defy the socialist insults of the Dems in 2006/2008? Of course not. HIs father said nothing about the then most corrupt reign in our history either. And, he/Clinton won.

2. 1998- Osama Bin Laden declared war on the US then in a fatwah. TheM/M are winning with our girly-parties in charge and a mysterious US Sec. of Defense and Pres. Nice in charge of our defense.

3.CITGO- The Venezuelan/Marxist outlet for gasoline in the US has changed its name in many states to PETRO EXPRESS for those of you still buying Maxist oil.

4. WMD- As known by the thinking Americans , WMD were moved to Syria and are there now.

5. 81% -of Americans favor voter ID. Illegals will be encouraged to vote by the Democrats even without ID or photo identification-poor Wisconsin.

6. MERIT PAY- Merit pay or Performance pay for elected officials might be ok if it were tied to Constitutional performance. None would achieve public merit pay.

7. NATIONALIZED EDUCATION-It was reported casually today that the national educrats are proposing an expected national education test with accountability instead of state/local tests. The federal control of education is unconstitutional -see Art. X of the US Bill of Rights andArticle I, sec. 8 properly understood.

8. BUMPER STICKER IN WISCONSIN- FEINGOLD-HUGO CHAVEZ

9.WHY? -Why are we in the UN and paying 25% of its operating costs while being insulted by the appointed thugs of most of the member "nations"?

10. PRAYING- Both Ahmadinejad and H. Chavez offered gestures/prayers at the atheist gathering of the UN at its opening session. Did the Christian President GW Bush offer prayers to the God of the universe? No.

QUOTE:-OSAMA BIN LADEN, protected by Islamic Pakistan, " Music is the flute of the devil." (ref.- p. 167, "Looming Tower " by Lawrence Wright, 2006 )

Opinions based on discerning the left media,
Gene Malone
Kenosha, Wisconsin

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A SOCIAL WORKER'S POEM

I am a social worker,
I'm really very nice.
I help you loving mothers,
And give you good advice!
Your partner has departed
Your income is too low.
I'm really very sorry,
All your kids will have to go !
Your partner is abusive?
He beats you black and blue?
We'll soon be there to help you,
And take your children too !
You have a learning problem,
You're really not too clever
We'll get your kids adopted
When can you see them?? NEVER!!
Your son is hyperactive?
You need a brief respite;
We'll soon take ALL your children
Give up the hopeless fight!
Your child was taken into care,
So many years ago
If now you have a baby
That too will have to go!
Foster parents love your kids
To get some more they seek,
For each one brings a tidy sum
£400 per week !!
Children's homes are run by us ,
Where paedophiles abound
Each time we cover up abuse
"The gutter press" come round
.
"They" said adoptions worked the best
We soon proved that they would
Fathers shout and mothers cry
Their kids are gone for good!
What happens in our special courts?
Our experts they will say
"You're a danger to your children,
So we'll take them all away!"
Your children may be healthy,
Happy and well fed
But one day you might hurt them
That's what our experts said
The judges know that we are right,
With us they will agree
They dare not risk another course
You have no chance you see !
Our special courts are secret,
So don't you breathe a word
Of what goes on inside those walls
No matter how absurd !
We'll get your kids adopted,
And don't you dare complain!
Or you'll end up in prison
And I won't say that again!
We have adoption targets,
They must be met you see,
Failure means a reprimand,
So spare a thought for me !!!

IAN JOSEPHS (a very social worker!)

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What are signs that a church is becoming secular?

By Matthew Slick
(Christian Apologetics & Research Ministry)

"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, 12instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age," (2 Tim. 3:16) and is the measure of truth and righteousness. To claim that it is not inspired is to reduce it to the level of the Quran, or the Bhagavad-Gita, or the Book of Mormon which are mere man-made writings posing as inspired words from God.

When the authority of God's word is lost, then man-made doctrines creep in. The authority and inspiration of scripture is the anchor that keeps the church from drifting into error.

Using books instead of the Bible in Bible study

It is okay to use books that assist in Bible study, but the Bible should be the central source of spiritual truth, not books about the Bible. If Bible studies are using guidebooks more than the Bible itself, then the Bible has been moved to a secondary position. If Christians are having trouble understanding God's word, then the pastor (or Bible study leader) needs to teach them how to find its truths so they can check all things in scripture by themselves (Acts 17:11).

Teaching that there is more than one way to God besides Jesus

In this world of relativism, it is not popular to claim that Jesus is the only way to be saved. But this is what the Bible says. John 14:6, "Jesus *said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me." Also, Acts 4:12, "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved." There is no other way to be saved. The Muslims, the Buddhists, the Taoists, etc., cannot be saved without Jesus.

Being embarrassed to say that Jesus is the only way to salvation

Like the issue above, Jesus is the only way (John 14:6). Christians should never be ashamed (relativism is the norm of society. We often hear, "It is true if it is true for you." The Bible tells us that there are moral absolutes independent of what we think is right. Exodus 20:1-17 is a list of the ten commandments which are moral absolutes. The Bible teaches us there is absolute right and wrong. Without moral absolutes, no one can say anything is right or wrong.

Being careful to not offend anyone at the expense of biblical truth.

Whether or not someone likes what the Bible says does not change the truth of the Bible. We should not be offensive just to be offensive, but we should not be afraid to speak the truth of God when the need arises. The gospel that offends no one is not the gospel of the Bible.

Pastors preaching moralism instead of Christ centered messages

Moralistic preaching is preaching that does not focus on the cross of Christ. For example, we do not try and be good because being good is nice. We try and be good because Jesus saved us from our sins and doing what is right glorifies Him. Preaching that is not focused on the cross is not preaching. It is a waste of time.

Approving of homosexuality

Homosexuality is being accepted as normal all over the world. It should not be accepted as normal in the Church. Homosexuality is a sin (Should women be pastors and elders?

Not condemning the sins of society

If at all possible and according to wisdom, Christians should not be intimidated by the world when it comes to condemning sin. Sometimes, when Christian pastors condemn a sin in the world, like abortion, they are attacked. Truth is not silenced by complaining voices. We do not answer to them. We answer to God.

Psychology as an authority on human nature.

The Bible tells us that people are sinners by nature, selfish, prideful, and in need of the saving work of God. The Bible tells us what is right and wrong regarding childrearing, criminal behavior, actions, and words. Psychology can give us insights on many things, but if it contradicts God's word, it is wrong. We need to accept the fact that God is the authority on man, not the psychologists.

Use of politically correct terms of the world from the pulpit where those terms replace biblical values and truths

Is a wife or husband a "partner?" Are Christians who condemn homosexuality "homophobes?" Is it correct to say a woman can kill the baby in her womb and call it "abortion rights" when discussing "reproductive rights"? Is accepting false theologies called "diversity awareness"? If such words and terms become the common vocabulary of the pulpit without qualification and/or explanation, then the preacher is adopting the terms of the world and not of God and by it he is slowly being seduced by the world.

Going to church as a social habit

Church is not a social club where politically correct ideas are tried and tested. It is not a place we go to voice our opinions so that others can hear our wisdom. It is the place where we go to learn, to be corrected, to grow, and to encounter God who is not made after our own image.

Prayer as a last resort

To seek to accomplish things in life without God, whether it be big or small, is to say we do not need God and to proclaim our independence from Him. To resort to prayer as a last resort is to exclude God from the beginning of our work and to proclaim our independence from Him. Prayer is the first resort. It is the world that operates without God, not the Christian.

Missionaries not sent out or supported

Missionary efforts needlessly curtailed. If a church cannot support a missionary effort because of legitimate circumstances, that is one thing. But, if it can and it does not specifically reach out to the world with the gospel, then it is disobeying God's word (Matt. 28:18-20).

Divorce statistics as common as secular society

What a horrible failure this is that the Christians have the same divorce rate as the unchurched. Undoubtedly, this is due to the secularization of the heart.

Evolution

Either not condemning evolution or not taking a stand on it.

Is your church becoming secular? Are you? If either, start praying, repent of anything you believe or do that is contrary to scripture. Start praying for your church and study God's word. Let it be your guide.

URL: http://www.carm.org/church/secularchurch.htm


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For His Glory,
Angela Wittman
(Publisher/Editor of Christian Heritage News)

For subscription or unsubscription services, please contact the editor.

NOTE: Even though all effort is made to only publish and share solid Christian news, commentary and information, Christian Heritage News does not necessarily endorse all that you may read in the articles appearing above, or at the sites of the news providers to which you will be linked. Please use Biblical discernment. Thank you, ed.

Sunday, September 17, 2006

Volume 2, Issue 33


Volume 2, Issue 33 ~ September 17, 2006


Intelligent Design or Chaotic Accident?


Intelligent Design is back in the news. Baylor college in Waco, TX is struggling once again whether or not to present Intelligent Design along side the theory of evolution. It should be a no-brainer for a Christian college, but alas, Baylor must keep up with the academic Joneses. It wasn’t too long ago, however, when the evolutionists pleaded for their theory to be taught along side of creationism. The infamous Scopes Monkey Trial paved the way for its actual implementation.

It was this court trial which became the basis for the play and movie called “Inherit the Wind.” It pitted an ACLU attorney, Clarence Darrow, against Christian attorney, William Jennings Bryan. The case brought the classic battle between creationism and the teaching of evolution to the public fore. Though much of the dialogue was taken word for word from the court transcript, the play/movie were filled with distortions, misrepresentations, and inaccuracies. Of course, this was not an oversight on those who wrote and produced the play/movie. It was their agenda.

Right from the very beginning the Scopes Monkey Trial was a set up. The ACLU was looking for a patsy to exploit in order to challenge the Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution in their state. The ACLU placed ads in local newspapers announcing their challenge. Some folks responded and took up that challenge in Dayton, TN. They searched and found a young man by the name of John Scopes and recruited him to their cause. John Scopes was not a biology teacher. He was a substitute teacher who for two weeks at the end of the school year replaced the actual biology teacher who was ill. He jumped at the chance and was guaranteed by the ACLU that they would pay all expenses as they moved forward to challenge the Butler Act.

The play/movie seeks to solicit sympathy and to present Mr. Scopes as the hero being persecuted by the close-minded, ignorant, and arrogant “fundamentalist” Christians. The truth is he was never in danger of going to jail. The maximum fine for violating the Butler Act was $500.00. There were many other distortions as well, but for those interested in getting the real scoop, go to www.answersingenesis.org. You will find tremendous theological, historical, and scientific ammunition to be equipped to give an answer in this debate over origins.

What can we glean from the history of the Scopes trial? Two important lessons, first off, Clarence Darrow paraded so-called “scientists” of his day to prove evolution was true in his attempts to debunk creationism. Ironically, it would be future evolutionists that would refute all their arguments presented in this trial. What does that say of their science? I guess their science evolves as well.

Secondly, it was Sprague de Camp, author of the book “The Great Monkey Trial” who described Mr. Bryan as “...in personality he was forceful, energetic, and opinionated but genial, kindly, generous, likeable, and charming...He showed a praise-worthy tolerance towards those who disagreed with him...Bryan was the greatest American orator of his time and perhaps any time.” This description is a far cry from the one depicted in the play/movie. Bryan is presented as losing all rhyme and reason and going into frenzied outbursts of incoherent tirades as the trial presses to an end. Finally, he collapses in his religious zeal and moments later he dies. Perhaps this was the play/movie’s way of wishing creationism and the Christian faith would die along with him.

Regardless, as great as Mr. Bryan was he did falter at critical points in the trial. He allowed himself to be cross-examined by Clarence Darrow. Mr. Darrow asked him some pointed questions concerning Cain’s wife, Noah’s flood, and the age of the earth. Unfortunately, Mr. Bryan lacked sufficient answers Biblically. As a result, many believed there was no real defense for the Christian faith and creationism and thus much of the church retreated from the market place of ideas, science, and the philosophical struggles of the day.

Intellectually speaking, it appears we are now on the outside of academic circles trying to peer back in, but the cards are stacked against us. Instead of taking up the many challenges that seek to discredit Christianity and creationism, the church, for the most part has found it much easier to rely on our feelings and experiences, rather than loving God with all our minds and to give a defense for the hope that lies within us (1 Peter 3:15).

At any rate, the Christians won the battle, the actual court case, but we having been losing the cultural war ever since. Evolution was placed along side of creationism and where is creationism today? It is stuffed in the church’s intellectual closet. Yes, we have gone into the closet and everything perverse has come out in our stead. As Christians, we must recognize that this development, along with the demands for multiculturalism, diversity, and pluralism, has been part of the secularist’s Trojan Horse that is contributing to our demise. We must also understand that these things in and of themselves are not the end state of affairs. They were merely the transitional conditions that moved America from the one true God and His moral code to a host of idols and their pagan moral codes. This devastating lie started in the Garden of Eve and has ravaged mankind throughout the pages of the Bible and history ever since.

God’s word declares, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).” Both Old and New Testaments reveal God doesn’t take kindly to idols, false science (1 Timothy 6:20), and pagan philosophy (Colossians 2:8) being set up next to Him or being compared to Him. Does anybody remember the fate of Dagon (1 Samuel 5:1-7)?

For my own part in this particular battlefront, my interest in it began in beautiful San Diego, CA. in 1996. Operation Rescue/Operation Save America held our national event in that city to confront the Republican National Convention with the horrors of abortion and the abominations of the homosexual agenda. We stood outside the convention and preached the word of God calling upon all delegates to repent, acknowledge the Crown-rights of King Jesus, and return to civil government’s sacred duty, which is to uphold the standards of God’s law, protect life, and to stop the shedding of innocent blood. We passed out a tract that I wrote called “America at the Crossroads.” (To those interested in its contents you can view this tract at our website at www.mttu.com/elijahmin, click on “tracts” and then click on “Crossroads.”)

It was a challenging and yet rewarding experience calling our civil leaders to their God- ordained responsibilities, but there was one other highlight that stands out in my mind as well. A local Creation Museum contacted us and invited the ministry to tour their facilities. They treated us like royalty and gave us a red carpet reception. I remember being impressed with their respect for us and their format of presenting the truth of God‘s creation. One of their unique features was each room chronicled the literal six days of creation that was juxtaposed with the fallacy of evolution.

By the time you reach the end of the tour, each person was confronted with the fruits of his/her belief system. The Christians were presented with the glory of God’s creation and the veracity of His word, while the evolutionists were confronted with the horrors of their distorted belief system. Numerous newspaper articles hung on the wall that demonstrated the connection between the deadly fruit of evolution with the atrocities that hunted and haunted twentieth-century man. Starting with Darwinism and moving on to Marxism, Communism, Nazism, etc., the covenant rebel came face to face with the intellectual underpinnings of evolution that supported these murderous regimes. According to the staff, it was typically at this juncture the liberal, secularist howled the loudest in protest against the Creation Museum. I guess no one wants to be reminded that ideas have consequences.

According to Ken Ham (more on him later), one of the authors of the book “One Blood,” there are several other skeletons that hang in the evolutionist’s hall of shame. In fact, there are several more blights that they would rather see disappear from the historical record. For the purpose of this article, I will highlight just two. The first concerns the travesty of Ota Benga. According to the book, “One of the most fascinating historical accounts about the effects of Darwinism is the story of Ota Benga, a Pygmy who was put on display in an American zoo as an example of an inferior race. The incident clearly reveals the racism of Darwinism and the extent to which the theory gripped the hearts and minds of scientists and journalists in the early 1900s.”

You read that right. The Bronx zoo in America held this man captive in a cage along with a parrot and an Orangutan named Dohong. He was the most prominent feature out of all the zoo exhibits. People came from far and near to get a glimpse of Darwin’s monkey man. The dehumanizing treatment of this man ended tragically. He eventually was set free only to commit suicide at a later date. To read the entire account go to http://www.answersingenesis.org/ and type in the words Ota Benga on their search engine. It will break your heart.

The second historic travesty concerns Darwinism and the hunting down and murder of the Aborigines in Australia. In chapter nine of the book “One Blood” the title is called “Darwin’s Body Snatchers.” It reveals the horrors of people deliberately killing the Aborigines in their attempts to provide ‘specimens’ for evolutionary research. American, European, and Australian “scientists” actually robbed graves, shot, killed, stuffed Aborigines, and shipped them to different museums as “proof” of their evolutionary/racist ideas. According to the book, “There is documented evidence that the remains of perhaps 10,000 of Australia’s Aboriginal people were shipped to British museums in a frenzied attempt to prove the widespread belief that they were the ‘missing link.’”

The authors end the chapter with these observations, “A similar horror reappeared in the 1930s, when the blatantly evolutionary doctrines of Nazism allowed the consciences of hundreds of doctors, scientists, psychiatrists and other officials to be seared as they set up the machinery to help nature eliminate the unfit. First, it was the genetically ‘inferior’—the mentally and physically disabled. Next, gypsies, Jews and others. The rest of the story is well known. Today, evolutionary thinking enables ordinary, respectable professionals, otherwise dedicated to the saving of life, to justify their involvement in the slaughter of millions of unborn human beings, who, like the Aborigines of earlier Darwinian thinking, are also deemed ‘not yet fully human.’”

As the above quote states, Darwinism and its heretical teaching of evolution is what under girds the American holocaust of abortion today. Just as Darwin corrupted the study of biology, eventually his theory spread to corrupt law and government. As a legal theorist and Supreme Court Judge, Oliver Wendall Holmes, became infatuated with Darwin and his evolutionary theory. He, along with a few like-minded jurists in the early twentieth century, expanded evolution “science” from the discipline of biology to the field of law. He was one of the first to try and remove the transcendent understanding of law as a fixed eternal standard to one that evolves. To him, truth was relative and subsequently the Constitution should be recognized as a “living” document that can be fashioned and formed like wax in the hands of the judiciary.

This concept of law is known as legal positivism. It supplanted Blackstones, “the law of nature and the law of revelation, found only in the Scriptures,” with this evolutionary view of law. Legal positivism is what has paved the way for the wave of judicial activism that is destroying the righteous foundations of America today. According to this system, there are no divine absolutes in law. Law is simply man-made and it evolves just like men. It was this system of legal theory that inspired Oliver Wendall Holmes to declare, “I see no reason for attributing to man a significance different in kind from that which belongs to a baboon or a grain of sand.” He furthered stated, “the sacredness of human life is a purely municipal ideal of no validity outside the jurisdiction.”

According to Doug Phillips, a good friend of mine who has much training and experience in law, by this evolutionary view of law, “Holmes and his contemporaries laid the foundation for legalized abortion, no-fault divorce, the legalization of homosexuality, and the rejection of the Framers’ vision for Constitutional interpretation. Today, most courts have embraced an evolving standard for Constitutional interpretation, rejecting the notion that the Constitution must be interpreted in light of the meanings intended by the Framers.” For more study on this crucial issue read Doug’s article “Do Laws and Standards Evolve?” Click on this link: http://www.visionforumministries.org/sections/hotcon/ht/interposition/2004-02-20_doug_phillips_dolaws.asp or go to http://www.visionforum.com/ http://www.visionforumministries.org/. I highly recommend these websites for its value in restoring the Christian family, the reformation of the church, history, Biblical worldview, science, and a variety of other disciplines to train and disciple Christians today.

As stated previously, Clarence Darrow latched onto evolution and defended it in the Scopes Monkey Trial. He also embraced the evolutionary view of law and applied its belief system to another actual court case. It was the O.J. Simpson or the Michael Jackson trial of its era. The case was “The People against Nathan Leopold, Jr., and Richard Loeb.” On July 21, 1924, it opened in the Chief Justice of the Criminal Court, John R. Caverly's courtroom. The case centered on two rich and well-educated young men who became obsessed with the notion of taking an overweight young man, kidnap him, and murder him just for kicks. It was a highly charged public court trial. The nation at that time was stunned and shocked at this crime and it was demanding swift retribution.

Clarence Darrow’s purpose was to make sure the retribution demanded was not the death penalty. He pleaded guilty on their behalf hoping to avoid a jury trial. He believed his chances of saving their lives faired better with Judge Caverly than with a jury of their peers. His defense for sparing their lives was based upon evolution. He stated, “Why did they kill Bobby Franks? Not for money, not for spite, not for hate. They killed him as they might kill a spider or a fly, for the experience. They killed him because they were made that way. Because somewhere in the infinite processes (evolution) that go to the making up of the boy or the man something slipped, and those unfortunate lads sit here hated, despised, outcasts, with the community shouting for their blood.” It worked but what has become of justice in our nation?

Notice his rationale, evolution made them that way and then something “slipped.” Evolution played a trick on them and thus they are not responsible for their actions. The problem then is not that they conspired to kidnap and murder a young man. No, it’s the demand for justice by the mean-spirited public that thirsts for their blood. Bravo, Mr. Darrow, Johnny Cochran would be proud.

One of the other objections the Creation Museum encountered is the world’s distaste of Christians trying to utilize science, the discipline of “knowing,” to give credible evidence to the claim that God created the heavens and the earth according to the account found in Genesis. The naturalist, secularist, and the humanist think science is a realm that should be distinctly separate from the world of religion. Even though both disciplines hold great sway over the minds, hearts, and allegiances of men, they still love framing the debate as one that pits science against faith. This, at least in their minds, grants them an advantage. Science can be proven empirically, whereas, faith cannot (again, at least in their minds this premise is true).

Unfortunately, the Church for years has surrendered to this proposition, little realizing that he who frames the debate wins the argument. On the one hand, the intelligentsia loves to paint the picture that science is rational, reasonable, and intelligent, while belief in Christianity is archaic, superstitious, and a crutch for weak, narrow-minded people. It was Bill Maher, god-hater, and former host of the show “Politically Incorrect” who complained, “When people say to me, 'You hate America,' I don't hate America. I love America. I am just embarrassed that it has been taken over by people like evangelicals, by people who do not believe in science and rationality. It is the 21st century.”

Those in the world want to have their cake and it eat too. They want it both ways. They love the science vs. faith premise, but they refuse to deal with a science vs. science scenario. The reason for this is simple. True science is not an enemy to faith, but a powerful ally to the truth. Darwinism and the subsequent evils it has spawned is a house of cards that is falling apart as more and more the scientific evidence points to creation rather than evolution.

For another example of the intolerance of the world against Christians trying to prove creationism is true by scientific research, consider again Ken Ham. Mr. Ham heads up Answers In Genesis Ministries. Part of the vision and mission of this ministry is to construct a Creation Museum in Kentucky. Though the common folk of the community are all for it, Mr. Ham drew the ire and fire of the “powers that be.” The city council, at first, denied the permit to build based on their so-called zoning laws. But as the battle continued to rage, the real reason for the resistance came to light. It was stated, “we wouldn’t mind if they wanted to build a church, but they want to build a museum to change our minds.”

This statement is interesting on two counts. First, it sadly reveals the irrelevance of the church today. This also explains their willingness to zone for a church. Why? Because the church, at least in this instance, doesn’t possess the power to change minds any more. What an indictment! Secondly, if this Creation Museum is built, it may change our minds and bring about genuine repentance and this is simply not acceptable. Isn’t it amazing that the most intolerant are the ones who call for tolerance, open-mindedness, and free thought?

When it comes to this subject of origins, however, both parties must recognize that neither the secularist of today nor the Christian have first-hand, observatory knowledge. None of us were there. None of us saw first-hand how life originated. We both have the same evidence, which is circumstantial. We all have the same fossil record, but our conclusions are radically different. On what basis, our worldview. Thus creation and evolution have to be both accepted by faith. One is divine in its origin and one is humanistic. One leads to genuine salvation and the other leads to Hell.

For instance, Aldous Huxley, a British novelist and brother to atheistic evolutionist Sir Julian Huxley, made this frank admission about his anti-theistic motivation: “I had motive for not wanting the world to have a meaning; consequently assumed that it had none, and was able without any difficulty to find satisfying reasons for this assumption. The philosopher who finds no meaning in the world is not concerned exclusively with a problem in pure metaphysics, he is also concerned to prove that there is no valid reason why he personally should not do as he wants to do, or why his friends should not seize political power and govern in the way that they find most advantageous to themselves. … For myself, the philosophy of meaninglessness was essentially an instrument of liberation, sexual and political.”

Thankfully, Mr. Huxley was an honest humanist, which may be an oxymoron. But note his reason for embracing the theory of evolution and rejecting Theism: he didn’t want to be held accountable for his sexual and political proclivities. He didn’t want a higher authority such as God to exist and regulate his behavior. If the dirty little secret be known, the entire intelligentsia is intoxicated with this same motivation, whether they state it or not.

It is not reason, science, or rational thought that drives the theory of evolution, but mental gymnastics that seek to pretend that God doesn’t exist and that man will not be held accountable for his thoughts, deeds, and actions on Judgment Day. As far as they are concerned, Darwin murdered God and they are now at least satisfied intellectually with their atheistic denial of the truth. Thus we can eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we are all just food for the worms. What a depressing worldview!

Man comes from slime and turns into dirt with no eternal or higher purpose. It’s just goo to zoo to you to tomb and that’s it. Man is nothing more than a cosmic accident fashioned by the impersonal force of random selection. No wonder this world is so depressed and why our kids act like animals. This is what they are teaching in our tax-supported public schools.

Biblically speaking, however, there is no basis for atheism. God denies the very possibility for the existence of atheism. Romans 1:18-32 states, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 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: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.”

Every conscious human being on this planet instinctively knows that there is a Supreme Being. Creation itself testifies to this truth. Though man knows this truth, he suppresses it in unrighteousness (remember Mr. Huxley‘s quote). The visible manifestations of the heavens and earth point to the invisible and yet eternal power of the Triune God. It is written on the hearts of men and it is also evident in our consciences as well (Romans 2:14,15). Thus we have no excuse and no justification for atheism. It is the fool, not the wise, who has said in his heart that there is no God (Psalm 53:1).

Man is made in God’s image which theologically means “man thinks God.” It is inescapable. Why do you think man creates elaborate systems of thought, religion, and philosophy? What accounts for all the conflicting ideas and different images of God in the world? Why do some present false ideas of God, while others try to deny His very existence? If there are so many counterfeits doesn’t that warrant the existence of an original or why bother to distort and fight something that is not there?

God through wisdom, knowledge, and understanding created the heavens and the earth (Proverbs 3:19,20). This implies reason, rational thought, and logic that has been made available to the crown of His creation, man. Because of the fall, however, and the advent of sin, our reason, logic, and rationale has been made corrupt. That is why education in and of itself can never solve man’s dilemmas or problems.

For instance, when we go to the abortion mills and display the bloody signs of aborted babies, the police, security guards, those who pass by, clients, and workers all see and recognize the self-evident truth. This is a human baby that has been cruelly torn apart by an act called abortion. It is the intentional murder of an innocent, defenseless child in the womb of his/her mother. At that point, their minds have become educated, they know the harsh reality, and yet most of them still proceed to murder the baby or allow abortion to continue unabated.

People can even read the Scriptures, like many mockers of God today. They don’t do it to gain revelation and the truth in order to taste of God’s great salvation. They don’t do it in order to discover how they should relate to God and fit into His world. No, they do it to find the “contradictions” in order to blaspheme God and discredit His word. They do it to twist the Scriptures in order to justify their bloody perversions. Regardless, many of the world’s hammers have been broken upon the anvil of God’s word as they pursued this treacherous course.

The point is, they read the same words that believers read and get a “biblical education,” but they still remain in their unbelief, doubt, and enmity against God. Why? Because unregenerate man will never fully agree with God’s assessments and conclusions concerning the various issues related to this life or the one that is to come.
Man doesn’t have an educational problem, he has a moral, ethical problem. Our natural mind apart from God’s revelation is openly hostile to God and His law (Romans 8:7). Sin has made us enemies against God and we seek to dethrone Him by becoming a law and god unto ourselves. The Apostle Paul verifies this predicament again in 1 Corinthians 2:14, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

Until natural men who view life through the lust of their flesh, humble themselves, repent of their sin, turn from their wicked ways, and receive the grace of God by faith in Jesus Christ our Lord, they will remain in that blind, darkened state till death do them part. They will perish eternally in their sin. Their souls will be lost forever. They will be cast into outer darkness where the smoke of their torment never ceases, and the worm never dies (Matthew 22:13; Revelation 14:11; Mark 9:44). Instead of the worm feasting temporarily on decaying flesh as atheism believes, the reality is, there is a worm that feasts forever upon those who die the second death (Revelation 21:8).

It was St. Augustine who was one of the first to try and tackle this phenomena from a Christian, philosophical point of view. Does man gain a true belief system through education or does a true belief system grant man wisdom and understanding? The world says “seeing is believing.” That is why those who reject the claims of Christ and His word have a natural affinity towards science and empirical evidence. If man can’t taste, touch, smell, hear, or see it, then in their minds it doesn‘t exist. How many laws of science would have to be rejected, like gravity, if this was the one and only true measure of discerning and understanding reality?

Augustine on the other hand stated, “If you don't believe it, you won't understand it.” He also stated, “Faith is to believe what you do not yet see; the reward for this faith is to see what you believe.” Whereas general revelation from creation teaches man God exists, it takes special revelation (found only in the Holy Bible) to reveal to man the one, true, and living God, the correct object of man’s faith that leads to salvation. This is why Jesus after he was raised from the dead said to his doubting disciple Thomas, “...Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:27-29).”

There are two other points that I want to raise as this article comes to a close. Number one, Christianity and science are not mutually exclusive. They are not antithetical. They are not in opposition to one another and therefore should have nothing to do with each other as the world demands. No, there is a rich history of Christians pioneering science and discovering different branches of science. They believed in creationism and therefore believed they were privileged to think “God’s thoughts after Him.” For more information on this important topic, Dr. D. James Kennedy wrote a fine book called “What If Jesus Had Never Been Born?” Chapter seven deals with Christianity’s impact on science.

As Christians, we should never retreat into an intellectual ghetto established by the world to try and contain Biblical revelation from infecting the greater communities. The truth is, wherever Christianity is allowed to flourish, invention, discovery, and witty ideas blossom and bloom. There is a reason why the Christian West has led the way in science, technology, and invention. Wherever God’s word is preached and believed, men’s spiritual and mental capacities are awakened, which leads to physical and material prosperity. Every nation that rejects Christianity and is in bondage to idols and false religions, the opposite is true. Spiritual darkness leads to mental ignorance which results in physical poverty. Though these other nations may have tremendous natural resources, the tyranny of sin and the deception of Satan, keeps them bound. Thus only the elite few benefit as the mass of humanity suffers in their idolatry.

Finally, without the revelation of the Triune God, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, the revelation of His word, and the moral absolutes the Bible contains, there can be no basis for the laws of logic, the laws of science, nor the laws of morality. There is a powerful CD offered by Vision Forum called “The Great Debate: Does God Exist?” It pits Christian Apologist, Dr. Greg L. Bahnsen, against “Atheist” Dr. Gordon Stein. Much of it is heady and lofty, but at the end of the day, Dr. Stein could not answer the Transcendental argument put forth by Dr. Bahnsen. Dr. Bahnsen presented the premise that the atheists have to borrow from a Christian worldview in order to even try and prove in a reasonable, rational way that God doesn’t exist.

For instance, when it comes to the laws of morality, how can they exist in an atheist universe? Dr. Stein was hard pressed to provide an answer. He stated that morality is based upon consensus or convention. Man just makes it up as he evolves. His rationale, however, became suspect when he was asked about the evil of Hitler’s Germany. Could he say that what Hitler did in Germany was evil and if he could, by what standard is it evil? Again he mentioned that Germany was a western country that was influenced by the Judeo/Christian ethic. It was by this consensus and convention, he could say it was evil.

Two obvious fallacies emerge: number one, he doesn’t believe that there is a God who could establish a Judeo/Christian ethic. Number two, Hiltler introduced an entire different consensus and convention that led to a holocaust. Some of Germany agreed with this new consensus, so on what basis could he say it was evil, especially, since the consensus and convention changed?

This essay was written to promote the premise that ideas have consequences and a belief system will lead mankind somewhere. Where has evolution led us as a nation? Where would a return to God and creationism leads us once again? The hard truth is, life simply doesn’t work correctly without God, the Bible, and His eternal laws. God created both physical and moral laws that if believed and acted upon can benefit mankind, if denied and disobeyed, however, it inevitably brings severe consequences upon us. Let us therefore, humble ourselves, repent of our folly and ideological rebellion that is espoused in evolution, and return to the God of our fathers and the divine principles of His word.
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1st Amendment victory goes to Christians

Parade rule had restricted assembly, free speech in city
Posted: September 13, 2006
1:00 a.m. Eastern
© 2006 WorldNetDaily.com
The city of Florence, S.C., has given up its battle to keep a city parade rule that imposed unconstitutional limits on a group called Columbia Christians for Life.
The city has agreed to settle a lawsuit brought by the pro-life organization by paying $51,000 in damages and attorneys' fees, according to a report by WBTW News 13.
The case was triggered by the arrests by Florence police of several Christians who were "peaceably assembling and exercising free speech and freedom of religion on public sidewalks without a permit from the government," according to the pro-life organization. Florence city manager David Williams told the television station the Columbia Christians for Life had challenged a parade permit requirement that was similar to another ruled unconstitutional in Charleston and Travelers Rest. ...
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Fighting for that City on a Hill

By Joe Murray
September 7, 2006

(AgapePress) - It is written in Proverbs that "[w]hen the righteous increase, the people rejoice, [b]ut when a wicked man rules, people groan." In a day where unborn children are reduced to a personal choice and images of a crucifix dipped in urine substitute as art, many Christians have hung their heads in shame -- shameful of the nation we have become. Their groans can be heard from miles away.

In response to America's slide towards Sodom and Gomorrah, Christians have fallen to their knees to pray for our nation; so that men and women elected to positions of power would follow a biblical compass. These Christians, rightfully so, understand the command of Paul in 1 Timothy, when Paul proclaimed, "[f]irst of all ... I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity." Thus, for a faithful Christian, prayer is integral in attempting to rescue a government that been placed on the slippery slope to the sewer.

It is clear that Paul understood prayer was always the first step for a Christian seeking to confront the demons that plague his earthly life, whether they are public or private. But does a Christian's responsibility in creating a government that reflects natural and biblical law stop at prayer? Is it enough for a Christian to pray for a Godly government and then go about his business? Put simply, is it acceptable to have prayer without action? Not a chance. ...
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Christian Faces Trial Over Bible-Based Pamphlets
By Patrick Goodenough
CNSNews.com
International Editor
September 12, 2006
(CNSNews.com) - Evangelical Christians in Britain are concerned about the prosecution of a protester who was arrested at a homosexuality rally while disseminating leaflets quoting the biblical view about homosexuality.Stephen Green, who heads a small but active lobby group called Christian Voice, is scheduled to appear before a Cardiff court on September 28, after pleading not guilty to a charge of "threatening, abusive or insulting behavior."Although some Christian Voice campaigns and tactics have caused unease among some Christians, Green on this occasion won support.
The Evangelical Alliance, a 160-year-old group representing more than a million British evangelicals, said it was worried that the case may "erode" Christians' freedom to proclaim their faith, as well as freedom of speech and religious liberties. ...

Editor's Note: For a blessing, please visit Mr. Green's website "Christian Voice" at: http://www.christianvoice.org.uk/ , and then go pass out some Gospel tracts to those who are spiritually dead and lost in their sins. Thank you, AW
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Church and Government

By Rev. R.J. Rushdoony
California Farmer 237:3 (Sept. 2, 1972), p. 36.

One of the more serious examples of false or muddled thinking today is with a regard to the use of the words “church” and “government.” When people say “government,” they usually mean the state or federal government, and nothing could be more false. The Puritans knew better. The state for them was “civil government.”

Government meant first of all the self-government of the Christian man. There is no more basic and important government in society than that. Government also means the family, a very important area of rule and authority. It means the school, which governs the early lives of people, and it means also the church, a very essential area of government.

Our work governs us, as do our friends and relatives, and the people of our community, by their attitudes and opinions. Clubs and organizations we join also govern us. The kinds of government are many. Civil government is an important one among many, not the only one, and the most important government of all in human society (other than God’s) is self-government. ...
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Foster child deaths tallied

Some 50 children died last year in the state's protective care, say the advocates tracking numbers.

By Clea Benson - Bee Capitol Bureau

Published 12:00 am PDT Sunday, September 17, 2006
Story appeared in MAIN NEWS section, Page A3

Almost 50 abused or neglected California children died last year in foster care after the state took them away from their parents for their own protection, according to child advocates who started counting because the state does not keep track.

The tally by the Children's Advocacy Institute is the first measurement of how many of California's most vulnerable children die while under the state's guardianship.

The institute, based at the University of San Diego School of Law, also found that more than 60 children in foster care died in 2004. California has about 75,000 foster children, one-fourth of the nation's foster-care population.

Some of the children died accidentally or of natural causes. But others were neglected or abused by caregivers. The causes of death were not included in the study.

The death count includes children such as Dylan James George, 2, whose foster parents have been charged with fatally beating him in their Fremont home in 2004. Anthony Cortez, 15, was choked to death by another child in a Stockton group home in 2003. Four-month-old Christopher Battie died of sudden infant death syndrome in a Fresno foster home in 2003. ...

Please read more here.

Source: Protect Our Children From CPS
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TEENAGE TERRORISTS... n/t/q
Post
TEENAGE TERRORISTS- A plot to kill (massacre) other students at a high school in Green Bay, Wisconsin , was discovered before any assault by two teens was made. They had gathered explosives, guns, materials to kill . It was said they were into Gothic culture, hated school and had been watching "documentaries" on the Columbine massacre . They were 17.
Their parents were not charged as they apparently were unaware of the massacre planning.
~
1. UN/GWB- The globalist President will talk at the UN soon as the atheist/socialist body starts again to mess up the world leaning on the side of the Moslem/terrorists. I hope the President will not apologize for defying the global plans of the Islamic terrorists.
2. $2 per VOTE- Kenosha's paper headlined that the liberal Democrat pro-abortion Governor James Doyle "may" offer property tax payers $2 less on their local/state bills this year. I can not be bought that cheaply with a "may."
3. BUMPER STICKER: OIL, SATAN'S GOLD
4. QUESTION: Has anyone seen any real men in America or are they all fighting abroad? Our girly governments/media-types ed-elites, silent clergy have turned the nation over to the marshmallow Americans.
5. MICHAEL SAVAGE - He has a good idea on how to end terrorism on airflights: Everyone would fly nude to prohibit concealed things and be given paper clothing at disrobing and leaving the plane. Is this an invasion of privacy or is this a good idea?
6. 'SURVIVORS' - While Americans are entertained with the dumbing down/liberal classroom antics of teamwork, consensus, et al now gone national (adult) into the "Survivor " tv un-drama- one does wonder about real survivors in a war on terrorism in the middle east played out with life and death as the result of the "game". How silly we are at home while our best are being killed abroad without a real Commander in Chief or Military strategists-to win. (and I support the war, the troops, but we have a McClellan-type Commander in Chief). GWB does not have plans to win as no offensive actions are taken. simple.
7. REMEMBER, Islamic killers tried to assassinate the previous Pope without an apology .
8. 200 MILLION CHRISTIAN MARCH - Is needed now to D.C. to protect andrecover by protest the loss of our Biblical, Constitutional republic,now.
9. LEFT, AGAIN -The left in urban media outlets is recrafting an old straw/person for votes saying it is the "radical right (Christian) that is responsible for all their created ills. It is targeted against Evangelicals (those who read/practice Bible values and traditional Catholics). They must know that the radical/right Americans have novoice in DC with the left President GWB in charge.
10. GET THE UN OUT OF THE US
11.CONSTITUTION DAY- SEPT. 17, 1787- the famed document was signed
12. IMAGINE- a world without the killing, lying, mayhem by the M@M(Marxist/Moslem) Axis. Curious, will the M@Ms stop murdering for Ramadan while they secretly build new attacks on Israel and the US when their religion of peace rests to kill again?
QUOTE- -G.K. CHESTERTON, " The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and left untried."
~Ideas/observations-
Kenosha, Wis. ^^^

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
U.S Constitution week is Sept. 17-23 marking its signing in 1787. It is the basic rule and rights legal framework for our free, sovereign Republic.
All public representatives of the people take the oath to uphold the founding principles in their daily duties.
Abraham Lincoln declared on Jan. 27,1838, " Let the Constitution be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges, let it be written in primers, spelling books and in almanacs, let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice. And, in short, let it become the political religion of the nation." Hopefully, this would be true today some 219 years later.
The US Constitution was created for a new independent, free, educated and moral people to bring order and purpose to their Constitutional republic.
I have thought that other illegal's in the U.S. are those ,who have remained by choice, Constitutionally illiterate but are still offered the privilege of voting or hold places of public policy. In these times, sufficient funds and places of learning are ample offering opportunities for universal Constitutional literacy to be the norm. (190)
Our republic and its founding principles are being threatened on another level in that a plan/agreement/dialogue was initiated at Waco, Texas, on March 23, 2005 to create a North American Union/Community morphing the borders, economy, security concerns and a super mid US superhighway in the pact called: SPP (Security and Prosperity Partnership) of North America: Canada, Mexico and the United States.
As we inspire other peoples to create Constitutional, representative governments, let's learn and protect our own Republic.
A friend of the US Constitution,
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Hezbollah and Jesus
By Wayne Harris


Christians in America have a golden opportunity. As we watch Israel fight Hezbollah we should ask, “What would Jesus do?” This is an excellent time for those that are in the faith of Jesus Christ to let the Light of Jesus Christ shine through them. It is time to exercise our faith.

The first thing each Christian can do during this dangerous time is repent. We need to surrender ourselves to cleansing. Ask God to create in us a clean heart. Cry out to Him to renew a right spirit within us. To walk in forgiveness, purity of heart and the holiness of God will help us to view what is going on from a perspective that is not muddled by personal agendas or vendettas.

We must repent and seek forgiveness. What sins do we carry around that need to be dealt with? We need to ask God to forgive national sin. Once we have repented as a nation we can better assist other nations. On an individual basis pray that we might unite as a nation in humility, repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

As a nation we can be the greatest nation of war. We can also be the greatest nation of peacemaking. We need to walk in God’s ways. We must see through the glasses of Jesus. We need to receive our marching orders from the Lord of all.

Our faith seems childlike in comparison to what is going on in the Middle East. Yet, to follow Jesus, one would love his neighbor as himself. But how could terrorists and the Jewish state they want to annihilate possibly love one another? Try one person at a time.

As Christians we are to love our enemies, as well as our friends. This does not mean that we support evil deeds or attitudes. We love enemies with the goal of seeing them come to the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus. The love of Jesus reaches beyond national boundaries. Christ’s salvation penetrates borders. Anyone can be saved. We are not here to condemn our enemies. We are here to be used by God to rescue the perishing.

The spirit of fear grips people. This fear is a catalyst for hate. Hate inspires us to kill. This is not the way of the follower of Jesus Christ. The way of the Christian is love, forgiveness, self-sacrifice and a desire that none remain lost and in the dark.

As a Christian I choose to bless Israel. My belief is that Jesus, a Jew, came to save the lost sheep of Israel. Thus, I will proclaim the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. Jesus, by the way, died to save Gentiles from their sins, too.

Those that walk by the Spirit through faith in Jesus must emerge from the cloud of fear. We must soar above fear. We are commissioned to offer good news to our enemies. It is our mission to let them know that they do not have to be angry and full of hate. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. He died to forgive and save them from their sins, just as He did for all mankind.

Politics and war make for a crazy world. Christians can help by not adding to the craziness. We need to illustrate with our lives that there is a better way.

Since we reap what we sow, it behooves us to sow the best seeds possible. Instead of flooding our minds with secular news that returns void within hours, let us saturate the airwaves with the Word of God. It does not return void.

Preach in the streets of the benefits of a life lived in Christ. Stand in the presence of the lost and declare the love of God by pointing to the cross at Calvary.

Stand in your living room and declare the Word of the Lord into the spiritual realm. Stir things up in the unseen realm. Begin to declare faith that the Lord God of heaven will intervene in the Middle East. Pray that His will be done.

You can be effective in this war. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us!

Drop me a line at: weharris44@hotmail.com

Wayne Harris is a graduate of Mars Hill College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree in theology . He served as a Chaplain in the U.S. Army, and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm. He is a journalist for the Tribune Papers in Asheville, Hendersonville and Weaverville, North Carolina. He hosts a television program on Channel 10 in Asheville, NC, "The Wayne Harris Show". In his columns he comments on issues of the day with a biblical perspective.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For His Glory,
Angela Wittman
(Publisher/Editor of Christian Heritage News)
For subscription or unsubscription services, please contact the editor.

NOTE: Even though all effort is made to only publish and share solid Christian news, commentary and information, Christian Heritage News does not necessarily endorse all that you may read in the articles appearing above, or at the sites of the news providers to which you will be linked. Please use Biblical discernment. Thank you, ed.

Monday, September 11, 2006

Volume 2, Issue 32

Volume 2, Issue 32 ~ September 11, 2006



"Providence punishes national sins by national calamities."
- George Mason, co-father of the Bill of Rights, with Patrick Henry August 22, 1787, in the Constitutional Convention, Philadelphia
Abortion is a national sin. 9-11 was a national calamity. Greater divine judgment is coming upon America,unless we repent of the national sin of abortion.
Steve Lefemine, pro-life missionary
dir., Columbia Christians for Life
Columbia, SC


REVISED PRESS RELEASE:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 11, 2006
Revision of August 29, 2006
Press Release, with additional newslink:
____________________________________
Case stems from arrests by Florence City Police of five Christians for peaceably assembling and exercising free speech and freedom of religion on public sidewalks without a permit from the government on August 14, 2002
REVISED PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, September 11, 2006
ATTENTION ASSIGNMENT EDITOR:
For further information, contact: Steve Lefemine, 803-765-0916; CCL@ChristianLifeandLiberty.net ; www.ChristianLifeandLiberty.net, www.RighttoLifeActofSC.net
COLUMBIA, SC - In a victory for the free exercise of the God-given, Constitutionally-protected, unalienable rights of peaceable assembly, free speech, and freedom of religion, Christian Pro-Lifers have won a $51,000 settlement in a First Amendment case against the City of Florence, SC, in addition to declaratory and injunctive relief against the unconstitutional “Parade” permit requirement contained in the Florence City Ordinance on August 14, 2002.
As ordered by the United States District Court for the District of SC (Florence Division): [emphasis added]
“IT IS on this 3rd day of March, 2006, ORDERED AND ADJUDGED as follows:
1. This Court hereby declares that the permit requirement set out in City of Florence Code, Article III, Parades § 19-40, et. seq., as it read on August 14, 2002, is unconstitutional under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.
2. Defendants* named herein are permanently enjoined from enforcing and/or applying the permit requirement set out in City of Florence Code, Article III, Parades § 19-40, et. seq., as it read on August 14, 2002, to the expressive activities of Plaintiffs Steve Lefemine, Beverly Murch, Linda Beckman, Randall Beckman, Dave Lytle, Jeanette Lytle, Jim Shirmer, and Dennis Green on public streets, sidewalks or ways in Florence, South Carolina.” [Dave Lytle, 86, died June 2005]
* Defendants: City of Florence, and Chief of Police for City of Florence
The plaintiffs received a total of $16,000 in compensatory damages, and defendants paid attorney fees and expenses of $35,000 for plaintiffs’ attorney. We praise and thank the Lord Jesus Christ (Messiah) for this outcome. He is King of kings and Lord of lords of all men and all nations for all time (1 Timothy 6:15).
___________________________
This Press Release and the other items below are all archived at: http://www.christianlifeandliberty.net/
(click on ‘Events’)
FEDERAL CIVIL LAWSUIT FILED AGAINST FLORENCE, SC - August 6, 2004Lefemine, et.al. v. City of Florence; Civil Action No.: 4:2004cv21807 (Disposition: Dismissed Settled)
- ### -
____________________________
Columbia Christians for Life
P.O. Box 50358, Columbia, S.C. 29250 * (803) 765-0916 * http://www.christianlifeandliberty.net/
“… I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18
______________________________
This Press Release and other case history items are archived at: http://www.christianlifeandliberty.net/ (click on 'Events')
Full text of Press Release available at:
---------------------------------------------------------------

Have Christ, Will Travel
By Reed R. Heustis, Jr.
September 10, AD 2006

Do you notice that tired and weary man standing on the side of the dusty road with an old, weathered suitcase in one hand and a tattered cardboard sign in the other? "Have Christ, Will Travel," the sign reads. I am he.

My political journey is exactly that - a journey. There will be no end until I go home to be with the Lord. Until that day and hour comes though, I shall continue to occupy myself in the political realm by pressing forward the Crown Rights of Jesus Christ wherever the Lord leads.

ONCE UPON A TIME…

Once upon a time I was a Republican Party activist. I believed that the GOP was the key to fixing our nation's political problems, especially with the Democratic Party hell bent on pursuing godless Liberal policies. I was wrong. I soon learned that the Republican Party machine only cared about nominating "electable" candidates that could defeat Democrats regardless of whether Republican nominees held to Biblically correct principles. Consequentially, today’s Republican Party resembles the Democratic Party of 20 years ago, and can be expected to resemble today’s Democratic Party 20 years from today.

While a Republican, I began referring to myself as a Conservative. Being a Republican was not enough. I needed to differentiate myself from moderate Republicans who constantly belittled, ridiculed and mocked those of us who championed Principle above Politics, including the Life of the Unborn. A casual waltz through a Republican Party convention hall would confirm that it was only "acceptable" for certain issues like Abortion to be talked about, but just so long as those issues were kept to the sidelines so that the "real" issues, such as Taxation and Free Trade, were not interfered with.

However, soon I learned that even among conservative Republicans, when push became shove, Biblical beliefs were unwelcome, and I began to distance myself from the GOP, eventually leading to an outright divorce.

During that transition, I began referring to myself as a Paleoconservative. Being a Conservative was no longer enough. Conservatives were divided amongst themselves, and the prevailing view of Neoconservatism dominated the GOP hierarchy. While "Paleos" had a stronger reverence for traditional conservatism, it was Nationalism and Globalism that truly separated the two philosophies. Neos might be counted on to support traditional conservative positions, but not at the expense of godless Globalist ends. Because of this division, Paleoconservatism seemed to be the perfect political philosophy for me.

But once again, I soon discovered that even among Paleoconservatives, certain issues were expendable. Many of my Paleo friends appeared to be Pro-life champions – and they talked a good game – but when the pressure became great, their "more important" issues, such as Immigration and Economic Nationalism, would shove Life to the background. For them, it became "okay" to support Abortion of the Unborn in certain "exceptional" situations, as long as Paleos remain "united" on "true" Paleoconservative issues.

I arrived at my wit’s end. ...

© AD 2006 The Heustis Update, accessible on the web at http://www.reedheustis.com/ . All Rights Reserved.
-----------------------------------------------------------


Congressional Republicans
by Charley Reese

Congressional Republicans, the pundits say, are running against fascism, which, of course, doesn't exist in today's world. That's OK. The same buffoons are waging a war against terrorism, which they can't even define. My fondest hope for this political season is that every Republican senator and representative up for re-election is defeated. It's not that the Democrats are any great prize, but they are marginally more intellectually honest than the Republicans.

Most Democrats are leftists and socialists, and most of their rhetoric reflects that, as do the issues they support. Most Republicans, however, are big fat hypocrites who campaign as conservatives when in fact, judged by their actions and their votes, they are no more conservative than Pol Pot or Karl Marx.

A true conservative would balance the budget, would vote against all foreign aid and would practice an isolationist foreign policy. A true conservative would make sure corporations pay their fair share of taxes, would cut out all subsidies to big business and would take whatever steps were necessary to stop the shipping of manufacturing jobs overseas and the import of vast numbers of illegal aliens, who are a source of cheap labor.

Most of these windbags in both parties have only two skills: conning voters and raising money from lobbyists. Most of them couldn't manage a small law firm or even run a successful hot-dog stand. As for foreign affairs, most of them don't have a clue as to what's going on outside their own country club and favorite fancy restaurants. They are mental and moral midgets.

Most of them neither speak nor read a foreign language. If they have traveled overseas it's usually on those paid-for VIP tours arranged by special-interest groups. They don't read, most of them. In fact, aside from raising their own already bloated pay, they spend the majority of their time raising money for their next campaign. Very few of them have ever served in the armed forces.

There are a handful of good men and women in both parties, but if in doubt, always vote against the incumbent. ...
-------------------------------------------------

Paper Orphans

Part 1 of 2 (Part 2 of 2)

By Gwen Caldwell

The Adoption and Safe Families Act, (ASFA), was passed in 1997 by the US Congress. The purpose of this Bill was to protect children from lingering in foster care too long. In some cases children were literally being lost in foster care in some of America’s larger cities. The problem was high worker turnover and over weighted caseloads. The idea was to find permanent placement for children within a designated time frame. Attached to this movement of children would be financial incentives and bonuses to states for compliance with mandates. Thus, the Child Abuse Industry in America was now, subsidized by the Federal Government. With virtually no accountability and no oversight on the part of the states it has become the genocide of American families.

One would hope that this would make our children safer and at lower risk for neglect, abuse and death. This certainly has not been the case. One would hope that this would reduce the number of children in foster care. This certainly has not been the case. One would hope that family needs would be addressed to ensure stability. This certainly has not been the case. In my opinion the goals of ASFA have grossly failed at an untold cost to families at the expense of American taxpayers. ASFA demands that the child welfare agency be responsible for ensuring the safety of children in out-of-home care. Yet, we have had repeated reports of sexual abuse, physical and emotional abuse of children while in the care of the state. When these allegations are reported to the agency or other government officials the actions taken are generally unacceptable and untimely! The parents are then retaliated against, being denied unmonitored visits, mail and phone contact with their child. If a child suggests or says something that can be construed as abuse in their parent’s home immediate action is taken. However, once in the custody of the state these allegations are minimized, discounted or ignored all together.

The actual outcome of ASFA has been a higher number of children in foster care nationwide. There has been a massive increase in parental terminations, and adoptions of America’s children. The issue that needs to be pointed out here, is that not only are the parent’s rights to have a relationship with their children terminated, all family members are terminated from having a relationship with these children. ASFA is very specific in stating that these children should continue to enjoy a relation with their relatives, communities and schools, this rarely, if ever is the final outcome.

My concern about this growing industry is reduced to who is really benefiting from ASFA. ...
-----------------------------------------------------------

The Crocodile Hunter
By Wayne Harris

When a stingray struck Steve Irwin in the heart we were reminded of how life can end in an instant. Who expected this vibrant personality known as the Crocodile Hunter to die at 44? Yet, he lived each day on the edge. Why was anyone surprised? I guess we thought a crocodile or poisonous snake might be the culprit.

I responded to Steve’s death in much the same way that I did when I heard that Superman died. Superman, of course, was really George Reeves, the actor. I believe he was 45 when I heard a radio report that he committed suicide. Children will be affected by Steve’s death. After all, they watched him dodge, wrestle and take dominion over crocodiles on television. Many saw his movie. Who watched him tangle with poisonous snakes who did not cringe?

There is an obvious message from what just happened. Everyone dies, and nobody knows his or her appointed time. It comes sooner for some than for others. Nevertheless, as George Bernard Shaw said, "One out of one dies." The key issue of this message has to do with being ready. How does a person prepare for the inevitable? Is there a way to face the truth that it is appointed once for a person to die?

The sting of death is something we would rather avoid or ignore. It is one of those unpleasant subjects that most choose to tuck away until later. "I’m not ready to discuss this!"

Soldiers learn to deal with this inevitability because they have to prepare for war. Insurance, wills, dog tags, flack vests and helmets are some of the reminders that soldiers die. World War II veterans can tell you that many who stormed the beaches of Iwo Jima did not live to see the next day. Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan face life and death challenges these days.

Death claims married men with wives and children. According to reports, Steve Irwin was a loving husband and father. According to Steve, he planned to be there for his family.

Death is not a respecter of persons. Ask the Kennedy family. They have suffered many unexpected sudden deaths. The Camelot President John F. Kennedy died from an assassin’s bullet. Who would have dreamed that his son, John F. Kennedy, Jr. would die in a plane crash?

Death is no stranger to God, either? His Son, Jesus Christ, died on an old rugged cross. He died for the forgiveness of our sins.

Thanks to Jesus we can prepare for the inevitable. By trusting in Him as our Savior, we are able to face death victoriously. Jesus died to forgive us of the sin that separates us from God the Father.

God the Father is perfect and holy. He does not tolerate sin. There is no sin in His heaven. No sin is allowed in. That presents a dilemma for sinful men, women, boys and girls. Unless something is done about the sin that curses our lives we cannot enter God’s glorious heaven. To die in our sinful state means that we will be separated eternally from God.

Status means nothing to God. Wealth means nothing. Worldly success will not get you into God’s heaven. You may have Secret Service guards protecting you, news people following you and be a household name. That will not get you into Jehovah God’s heaven.

You can catch hundreds of crocodiles, have numerous platinum albums in your trophy case and be an Academy Award winner and still miss heaven. There is not one worldly accolade that will get you in. Jesus is the only way!

The only person who can vouch for you is Jesus. Without Jesus there is no way in. Without forgiveness that comes through faith in Jesus there is no way in. Unless you have been washed in the blood of the Lamb, Jesus, you will never make it through the gate.

This one is not negotiable. Since everyone has sinned, everyone needs his or her sins washed away. The blood of Jesus washes our sins away.

Where is your stingray? When will your time be up? Jesus is the key to preparedness.

To comment on this message, write me at: weharris44@hotmail.com

Wayne Harris is a graduate of Mars Hill College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree in theology . He served as a Chaplain in the U.S. Army, and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm. He is a journalist for the Tribune Papers in Asheville, Hendersonville and Weaverville, North Carolina. He hosts a television program on Channel 10 in Asheville, NC, "The Wayne Harris Show". In his columns he comments on issues of the day with a biblical perspective.
-------------------------------------------------------------

America's Final Crisis (a poem)

by Patrick Johnston
Oh, America, America, God shed His grace on thee. But you have tread his grace underfoot And abused your liberty.

Freedom to ease, to lust and lie, This is the freedom you crave. More, give me more! is your unfailing whine From the cradle to the Medicare grave.

Oh, America, America, 'Twas home of the free and the brave. The Federal breast has converted you - Home of the bound, land of the slave.

Oh, America, America, Many season premiers ago, One good nation under God you were Till sin you began to sow.

Adultery, pornography, Homosexual abomination, Divorce, abortion, drugs and witchcraft, A curse on your backslidden nation.

Ungrateful for all that you have been given, Full of pride in your victories. Your pulpits justify your sinful living, You boast in security.

Slaughtered without a trial, The ashes of eighty-six, And the dead covered up in Oklahoma City, Alone cry out for justice.

Oh, America, America, How long can your games go on? Every nation that forgets the Lord Will be sent to hell before long.

Your Christian heritage has been despised, You’ve invented a new history. Christianity’s truths are exchanged for lies, Classroom prayer's now a felony.

Your last President was hell bent On promoting sodomy. He defended his lies and publicly denied Tax-subsidized adultery.

But now we have a Christian king From a Billy Graham crusade. Yet more tax-subsidized abortion, More gays in the government parade.

Oh, America, America, The innocent blood can be heard! The cries of forty-five million aborted Causes God's wrath to stir!

Silent churches are packed, pew to pew, With Bibles, hypocrites, and sin. Remote-control pastors and ear-tickling teachers Don't judge, they join in.

Judgment begins at the House of God, The hypocrites get it the worst. Purge out the leaven to bring down heaven, Before the dam of wrath bursts.

Now we are in our greatest crisis, The battle is set in array. The anti-christ army and socialist liars Are poised for the dawn of the day.

Satan schemes, the Goliaths cheer, It seems this war they will win. God's eyes roam to and fro through the tears To find a prophet without sin.

The angels wonder, the saints above ponder, Will America go down in flames? Will justice fail? Will tyranny prevail? Will God find an arrow he can aim?

Oh, America, America, Unless truth reclaims your ways, And you save your young, and murderers are hung, Unless Gospel law is obeyed,

Longsuffering will end, God will then send The judgment that you do not fear. The gavel will fall, not withheld at all, Then call, but God will not hear.

Your land will shake, your hearts will quake, You'll be governed by queers and whores. It's the mark of ease, or poverty, disease, Cruel bullets will penetrate your doors.

Rioting masses, gun-wielding rapists, Fiery streets, your just reward, First anarchy, then tyranny, With a U.N. branded sword.

Oh, America, America, Here lies your greatest task, Will your Elijahs arise to redeem One nation under God's wrath?

The night is far spent, the day at hand, Arise, oppose all delay, Take sword and armor, all heaven will cheer, Victory awaits in the fray! Victory awaits in the fray!

Copyright, July 2004
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For His Glory,
Angela Wittman

(Publisher/Editor of Christian Heritage News)

For subscription or unsubscription services, please contact the editor.

NOTE: Even though all effort is made to only publish and share solid Christian news, commentary and information, Christian Heritage News does not necessarily endorse all that you may read in the articles appearing above, or at the sites of the news providers to which you will be linked. Please use Biblical discernment. Thank you, ed.