I have been reading in a new plan that mixes 10 chapters from throughout the Bible and so far has made it very pleasent to get a broad range of Word each day. Today in Isaiah 8 I was struck by the question the Prophet asks, 8:19 "When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?"
Man that means psychics have been at this for a long time, could they really talk to the dead? How is this compared to the verse in Samuel where Saul indeed calls up Samuel from somewhere (Samuel 28:15)?
Have you ever wondered "how close is my view of Heaven and what's going to happen when I die?". I have thought about it all my life, the earliest view I can remember is literally the one of a place where we're all sitting in church and singing hymns to God all the time. When I sought clarification, I think of my grandmother, she told me something I took to mean I would be made perfect so I would like just sitting and singing all eternity. That scared me almost as mush as the thought of just sitting around and singing all the time.
As an adult I have had more science and science fiction influence my views to the point of my thinking that when I die I won't notice anything except that I am at the final judgment because I will have stepped outside of the constraint of time and be at the end. But what it's like after I'm there is still way nebulous, is it a physical place where I have a new better physical body and I live eternally. I don't know. I currently think that it must be something that someone 2000 years ago would have relayed to another person of that time as something so awesome that an abundance of all the greatest things to describe is used. Carry that to today's time and I can think of a lot of really great stuff that might be used to describe what I would think of so it must be really great. More than I can imagine, most likely.
How long does it last. Eternity. That's a really long time . Longer than I can actually imagine, I can try, but like infinity, we just aren't equipped to really understand things that aren't bound by time. I am embarking on a quest to better understand the end times with a couple of friends, I'll try and post back what I find and hopefully it will be more than my current vague notions. Some of the content I'm starting with for my research...
An Evening of Eschatology - This is a discussion/debate by 3 proponants of differing views. Premillennialism, Amillennialism, Postmillennialism.
A Jewish view of the afterlife as presented by a gentile... ( I added the last portion.)
Bible.org page on Heaven
Christian Courier on "A study of Heaven"
UPDATE: More from Wayne Jackson "Will Heaven be on Earth"
I know internet based information is always suspect, and I agree, but I was looking for views that differed from my traditional one so it's where I started. I have studied and read several times the book of Revelation and the other references to the afterlife in the Bible and will begin compiling them for a page on what I decide for myself here on my site.
If you have a source for me to review please leave it for me in the comments...
I was sitting just minding my own business working when a coworker came and forced me to take a short break to look at something on the web. Normally I am way to focused to ever stray from the grindstone, especially at work, where I'm working. But we all need a break and I don't smoke, so here, enjoy the fruits of my non-smoking smoke break. And click on the image to go to the site for more if your interested.
Enjoy 
WOW.
Before you continue my comments consider going to James Prathers Blog to read the entire article I'm referring to.
I believe that church became hollow when we (evangelicals) turned Christianity into an intellectual religion. We boiled down the Gospel to its basics and started evangelizing by teaching people: (1) Jesus died for your sins. (2) You must accept the gift of eternal salvation (though denominations vary as to how), and (3) You must walk in “newness of life,” which usually and unfortunately meant to most people generally being a good person (not lying, cheating, stealing, etc) and just showing up at church once or twice a week (or year). Sometimes step 3 was left out altogether! And so people were fed a Christianity where you merely had to accept salvation and then come to church and you were good with God. That’s it. And you know what? People bought into it! That’s how the evangelical movement grew to be the monstrosity it is today. We preached an intellectual gospel - one that only requires an intellectual commitment, not one of the heart where you radically change your life in response to the incredible gift of salvation. ThinkHebrew Blog
I am stunned, your very right, we all do need to just return to the concept we see demonstrated throughout the new testament. It is shown as a state of being that the apostles were in and yet sadly we did not pick up that portion. We jumped to seeking to follow the crowds example of coming to listen to a sermon, rather than the disciples example of dropping everything and living to become just like our saviour. What you've brought attention to is sadly something I am not even sure I am prepared to be able to attempt, not that I don't want to, I just have to think about how I would go about it.
The lifestyle the modern christian lives within is so jumbled with outside obligations that actually being a real disciple would push out all the other items to the secondary. That is completely backwards from how I fear I am living my life, I want to think I am first for Christ, but I fear I am first for John. American Idol would not live up to it's name in my life and I would first seek to know and understand more my saviour. We are taught balance is important in business, that we need to keep things equal and never focus too much on one thing to the detriment of another. Yet I think we may all be balancing our way to Hell. I am going to have to think on this some, I hope to respond further later. In the mean time, very good job pointing out the nose on my face, Its been there but I have been overlooking it.
I recently had a talk with my brother, who like me struggles with his weight. We have for years bantered back and forth about the need for our weight loss and the desire to encourage one another. I want to welcome him here as a new writer who I hope will encourage me and I him in our desire to make our temples worthy of the father. So in the coming days he will begin chronicling his journey toward a healthier weight, my prayer is that perhaps with a different medium of expression he and I can encourage each other to draw upon Gods grace and strength to begin the journey back to a healthier weight.
Weight is undoubtedly one of the biggest burdens in my life, for others it may be gambling, drugs, pornography or alcohol. But for me it is my weight, it drowns me in guilt due to my inability to stop cold turkey, and I have lost and gained the same pound hundreds of times throughout my life. The weight watchers program is a good one and if you have the cash it is a pretty good start, but I fear it is not my solution. At $40 a month it is not a car payment, but since my wife needs it as well at $80 it is noticible, and I unfortunantly know what needs to be done, yet I don't always do it.
I have been heavy all my life and while in the military I routinely passed the pinch test at 220 lbs considerably heavier than my 6' frame by Army standards would otherwise allow. So I know I will never weigh 180 lbs unless I am not muscular as well, but my current traget goal is to break the 300 lbs barrier. From there I will try and regain my svelt athletic 220 lbs form someday. But for me today it is beginning with just today. I will start by adding exercise back into my life and cut my portions in half from where they were.
Pray for me and my brother Steve, I know I want to build Gods temple into a stronghold that is healthy and allows me to be the witness I want to be in my walk toward my future with him. I want to be able to do the athletic activities and see my son marry and grow a family. If it is His will I go sooner, praise God, but please Lord give me the strength to not squander the time you do give me here.
I just began using the reading plan link on the site and I have to say I really like the fact it brings up what I need to read today when I click on the date and when I come back it is crossed out as completed. I like the chronological order as it presents the Bible in an order that is different than I am used to, and one that intuitively makes sense to me.
So here's the link in case you can't click on the button above or want to bookmark it.
Chronological reading plan
So frequently I hear from people that much of the Bible is dated, that challenges that faced early Christians no longer are relevant to us today. The very people we are warned about in 1&2 John are hard at it today writing best selling novels trying to shed doubt on the resurrection and deity of our Lord.
“Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take him into your house or welcome him. Anyone who welcomes him shares in his wicked work.” (2 John 1:7-11 NIV)
I recently went to my Audible account and looked for a thriller / mystery book to listen to, I drive a couple of hours a day to and from work, listening to books has been a way of making these trips more pleasant and bearable. I have always had a fascination with mid-evil history and a book about the Templar Knights caught my eye, I downloaded it and began listening. [[ SIDEBAR RANT ABOUT ELECTRONIC AUDIBLE BOOKS - Unfortunately I have no way of screening the books from having some language or worse yet sexual content and on several occasions I have basically tossed an electronic book for content. Usually there is a warning of some form if it does have that and those aren't books I'm interested in owning. When you get something offensive online make a comment so others are alerted, it saves others the annoyance of wasting a download on something they won't finish. END RANT]] The story was like many others, an ancient treasure and a hidden secret, with good guys and bad guys all vying to find it first. This time though the author chose to write the book in such a way that was always encouraging the belief that what was written was historically accurate.
I ran into this same thing with the davinci code, and by the end of it you've sat through 16 hours of some guy saying there are all these questions about the accuracy of our Bible. In the "Templars Legacy" case he called into question the gospels and unfortunately used the old trick that Satan has all Jesus detractors use. He left out contextual information and I basically reread Mark today to see if what he had alluded to was correct. In the book of Marks case he quoted Marks initial description of Jesus foretelling of his death and resurrection, a 2 verse entry (Mark 10:33-34), as being the extent of Marks time addressing the subject of Jesus resurrection in the book. In the 16th chapter it is discussed in full, albeit in a shorter manner than say John or Luke. He did this weaving a need for the story to change as believers got further and further away from the actual event throughout the 4 gospels. Mark is believed to be the oldest and therefore was the one he beat his drum most about.
Once I finished listening to Mark and saw that he wasn't really providing an accurate story I knew I had been had, During Lunch today I read it in the text and was able to get my fingers
on and flow around the book remembering the story from this morning, with my own knowledge I could now see the author was just trying to sow doubt and make a buck. So that is why I haven't given you the authors name, if you google the title you'll find it if your interested, but I won't be tossing any more cash this fellows way. So whew... it was a work of fiction, if you listen to the authors final comments, he confesses to making it all up - the parts in the story he uses to justify the plots deep dark secret. But he doesn't seem to care that for many it could cause a great deal of harm if shared to another as a trusted work. Like so many he isn't a believer, he tried to rewrite the gospel in such a universal way as to make it fit with many other religions. Thats just like those antichrists from the 1st century, he was a good guy, a prophet but did not really defeat death. Or worse yet he was God, but he wasn't really flesh so he couldn't have ever died for us to begin with.
ARRRRGHH... All this just makes me sad, but I what should I expect? The world isn't my home, it doesn't believe what I believe, it won't care if I perish or live. The moral of my story is be wary of what you buy, the books, movies and services may not contain a message that draws you closer to our maker and savior. I will throw kudos to Zondervan for the Audio Bible I did get from Audible last year. It made this mornings commute pleasant and I was encouraged by the readers dramatic efforts to impart the words of our Lord and Mark to me this morning.
Final Thought - for those possibly considering these odd views of Jesus as just a man or un-risen.
"13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. 15 More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. 16 For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. 18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. 19 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. 20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." (1 Cor. 15:13-22 NIV)
I want to make sure if your reading this you grasp how important that message is, without Jesus as a risen savior all our beliefs are in vain. When you look around you in this world there is no doubt that there is a God, and beyond that, there is no doubt his Son came to earth and died and defeated death. You can see his love for us in his message of hope, and frequently in the people around you today. If your not a part of his family, an eternal member, seek out his message. Feel free to email me (See link on top of right of page) and I'll be glad to call you and talk about what you can do to have assurance. He is risen, and awaiting all of us to join him.
This is it, BibleXpress, my new favorite iPod Touch Application.
So far, this is by far the best portable Bible app I have used. I used to use a version for the Palm, then for the Windows CE device (several), I thought had found the perfect device in the Kindle but it was a huge disappointment in the implementation of the electronic Bible. It wasn't the Kindles fault as much as it was the fact that none of the Bible publishers knew how to implement a good index that allowed you to get to a book and chapter quickly.
Well the iPhone/Touch app of BibleXpress has that part nailed down. Just touch the top bar and up pops a rotating dial that allows you to quickly scroll to whatever book, chapter or version you want to get to. How do you think you get to the next chapter? In version 1.1 it is as simple as swiping your finger just as you might after licking it to turn a page.
Another thing that was disappointing about the other Bible apps I had tried was their dependence on connectivity, it might be great on your iPhone to be able to hop over and read a multitude of translations but what about when there is no connectivity. BibleXpress has an actual copy of the translations on the device, ready to be read anywhere.
In a note from the developer (see below) he mentions his intent to include a number of additional translations. Since the app store doesn't currently offer a method of paying for upgrades you the buyer are having to trust the developer remains true to his word and includes more translations as he rolls out improvements and bugfixes. But so far, even if he didn't get a single additional translation I would still say his app is NOT overpriced. I can't wait to see what all improvements he makes, a simple reading plan would be awesome.
Check out the developers site for a youtube video of how it works and more information. If your like me and have been looking for a Bible that would potentially be with you always, this is a great place to start. I don't know if it will replace my trusty Cambridge, but I will certainly enjoy the ease and speed in which i can pop around and get to verses. Did I mention it also has a powerful search capability...
A note from the developer at BibleXpress
The iPhone /iPod Touch software will be updated with more Bible translations over the coming months until at least 80% of the net price is being paid as royalties. We’re currently negotiating with 3 popular translations. Check back in a few weeks for updated information.
One of the items I asked for Christmas was an electronic book reader. Well I got it a bit early,it wasn't supposed to arrive until mid December and my wife is too nice to pry the new toy from her husbands grasp. I have to wrap an empty box and put it under the tree so I remember what I got. But anyway I wanted an electronic reader so I could always have something to read when I had a moment to do so. Have you ever wished you had they version of the bible you are fond of or a daily devotional that had a short devotional or even the latest best seller? I did.
I thought that if I indeed had all this that I might be more inclined to read when I got the chance or even sit down and plan to read. Today at lunch I bounced out and got to Wendy's to buy a hamburger and the line was around the place and down the side, I almost went elsewhere and it occurred to me. Pop out the Kindle and read something. Now the plan had been to get it to go and return to the lunch room and read my daily portion for my bible readings, I am in Joshua and was looking forward to day 2 of this newly minted habit. (No I didn't get to Joshua in one day, I wish, I picked up where I had been from my trusty regular bible earlier) But instead I found I could start reading there while the line poked along, sure I didn't get but a chapter further along, but I could do it.
During lunch I proceeded to get rolling and very quickly did not notice I was reading from a gizmo instead of my bible and I even jacked the font up a notch to where I could easily read it without my glasses. That is quite nice and has the added benefit of making you feel like you are really burning through the pages. This afternoon I took a break and read my daily devotional from Streams in the Desert and My utmost for his Highest and it was awesome. Just one device met three of my book carrying needs.
Additionally I read a copy of the Wall street journal yesterday. I wasn't all that enthused by it but can see if your a newspaper lover you will like the ability to get it delivered to you daily. But for me the biggest deal was having the right book when I needed it. I have high hopes this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Now if your unsure about the device I'm referring to or want to know more I do have a blog I post to as well regarding it. (Yes Mel, shameless plug for other website) but if your interested I have done the legwork and you might as well benefit from it. It is over at kindlechat.com.
If you haven't picked up or read a daily devotional I can highly recommend Streams in the Desert, both the last two days have made me think about the subjects and todays will probably find it's way to this blog once I digest how I feel about it better and can articulate my thoughts. For a link to the book for info click here. I can't express how hopeful I am that this will indeed become a habit, what is that something you do for 30 days and then it becomes common to your routine, if so I am 28 days away from making my daily reading of God's word a habit. I have always read some, but I feel the need to read daily, and to allude to the subject of my next blog to rediscover meditation on God's word.
First let me say if you have no idea what I am talking about then first go read the first 2 chapters of Genesis paying particular attention to the way God is described in the two chapters. Allan on his blog poses a unique question that I am glad to see has sparked some discussion amongst those that know me.
I have seen a couple of different responses to this inquiry and one of them disturbed me a bit. I have snipped a section below to give you a taste if you don't have time to go read the full story, I'll pick up below the quote...
"The God of Genesis 1 doesn’t have to touch, or even see, anything. He’s distant from it. All of creation seems to take care of itself once he’s finished. He gives orders and commands. God blesses and provides for his creation and gives it what it needs. But it’s all very matter of fact and general.
Contrast that with the God of Genesis 2. That account shows us a God who forms man and breathes into his nostrils. He performs surgery on Adam and then sculpts Eve with his hands. In fact, he forms every animal and bird from the dust of the ground, not just man. He “plants” the garden. He “brought” man to the garden. He “brought” the animals to Adam. And he provided Eve out of concern for the man." - The Kingdom, The Kids, & The Cowboys » Blog Archive » The Two Gods of Creation
They both started out similarly, first a somewhat confused and then interested look followed with an inquiry into "whatever do you mean the 2 gods described in Genesis?" Then the difference really hit home. A fellow at my work thought that it was odd at first, and as we read through the accounts we were impressed by the simplicity of the two accounts and relief that they were indeed the same God. This was followed by a discussion I enjoyed about the Simplicity and depth that has been conveyed to us through the word of God. No fear, no doubts, just wonder at the plan God laid out so quickly in 2 short chapters to describe the unique divine nature of our God. (This is where I think Allan has hit the nail squarely on the head in his description)
The second however is one where the listener was put off and defensive almost immediately to the idea, and I almost thought they might be a bit offended I had approached the subject in the manner I did. Almost like it was being flip and demeaning to God. It is this strict "The bible says what it says, don't try to read to much into it" attitude that I wonder about. Is it wrong to pursue a greater understanding of the nuances God has preserved for us in his word? I don't think so, although I can understand a fear that one needs to be careful to make sure your efforts are holding true to the contextual intention of the message as it was conveyed.
At first I thought it was an age thing, but that isn't it because after beginning to think about this I have seen it from both sides of the age fence. I am no longer considered a spring chicken, though I am no where near pasturing age, I am pretty much a tweener right now I think. So if it isn't age what is it? My wife was once asked if she thought you had to be able to read Hebrew and Greek to get into Heaven, she was taken aback, but the persons point was he didn't think all that "interpreting" was necessary, just take the Word at it's word.
That isn't a bad thought if your truly aware of how the word was understood when it was originally given. I think this deeper understanding of God's will is part of the maturing process, the feeding on meat rather than milk. I am not accusing anyone of being worldly or immature but I am seeking a better definition of meat for my life. Growing spiritually in knowledge and actions I think is beginning that walk in Christianity, if your not walking/growing your sitting still waiting.
If you began the journey good for you, I don't try to place limits on what God's grace and mercy cover after you become a believer. But, I can't help thinking it is better to learn and grow than sit and wither. I know many of us fear the growth, what if I get to big for the pot I am planted in? Maybe you move to a bigger pot, or maybe you are taken completely out of the pot and are transplanted to a larger field.
In the end I liked Allan's view on God's 2 different sides being described in Genesis, I think it's good to stretch outside our own boundries. In my case it was somewhat like "why did you focus on that, I have looked that over and moved on, but wait, that is interesting..." When someone challenges you with a new idea, don't take it as truth immediately, take it in and compare it with the scripture. Does the statement ring true to the nature and descriptions given throughout the Bible along the subject. If the concept holds up then it is probably a sound view worth further study.
After that study you can decide for yourself what you think of the proposed idea. When your done with your research you've most likely jumped from being just a passive reader to an active reader growing deeper in your understanding of God's will.
