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Can’t do anything for God because you don’t have the money? Or don’t know how? The not-so-rich-and-famous can serve God by serving others, serving others, even if it’s only in little ways. Copyright 1996 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org Many wonderful stories find their way to Canada’s bulletin boards. One tells of an elderly widow, a shut-in who placed a classified ad in her local paper, “Pianist will play hymns by phone for those who are sick and despondent. The service is free.” When people called she played their favourite hymns, and was soon cheering more than a hundred people. Some poured out their hearts to her, and she was able to help and encourage them. Every day there are news reports of problems in the world, most of them in far-away places. And every day people wish there was something they could do to help. During the second world war there were things to do. Women got together knittin’ for Britain. Skeins of wool were turned into warm socks for the boys overseas. Packages loaded with daily needs were put together for the soldiers risking their lives for Canada’s freedom. It’s different today. The government takes care of our soldiers and we sit back wishing there was something we could do. (At least that’s the politically correct thing to say.) There’s an old saying, charity begins at home. No one has to look beyond the borders of Ourtown to find ways to help, if we really do want to help and not just pay lip service. But what is there to do? How do we start? Moses knew his fellow Israelites were enslaved in Egypt. But he had cleared out and was working for his father-in-law in Midian. No doubt he wished there was something he could do. Imagine his conversation with himself. “Well, I’d like to do something, but I’m a wanted man in Egypt. If I go back they’ll kill me. Besides, there’s six million Israelites and I’m only one person. What could I do?” But God had something for Moses to do, and each of his arguments was countered by God. “I cccccan’t tttalk to Phphphpharoah. III’ve got ththththis ttterrible ssssstammer,” Said Moses. “No problem,” said God. “Your brother Aaron will speak for you.” “But wwwwhat if the pppppeople dddon’t bbbeelieve yyyyou sssent me. Wwwwhat then?” “Well,” God asked, “what is that in your hand (Exodus 4:2)?” It wasn’t anything great, just Moses’ walking stick. The same stick God used to perform miracles in Egypt and on the trail. The piano-playing widow didn’t have much either. Her musical expertise may have been limited to playing hymns at sabbath school. But she had something, and she used it for others. No one can do everything, but we can each do something. If we pray about it we’ll discover what God has for us to do. What is that in your hand? A needle and thread? A tote full of tools? A hockey stick? Use what you have. You may not lead six million Israelites out of slavery, but you may keep a boy out of jail, or a girl from prostitution and drugs. So when you feel like you’d like to do something to help your fellow man, consider your own talents. They’re all you need. What is that in your hand? You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. In January, people want to know what the year ahead will bring. You don’t need a crystal ball or a ouija board. Your bible tells all you need to know about the time just ahead. Copyright 2005 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org The nations disobeyed God, created their own gods, and lived licentious lives. The prophets told Israel and the Jews, “Change your ways or suffer the consequences.” They didn’t, so they did! One of the consequences was to be ruled by Rome. The Jews believed the messiah would be their great emancipator from Roman rule. Jesus’ disciples thought so (Acts 1:6), even though he had already declared, “My kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36).” It took time for Jesus to teach his disciples what they needed to know. They were Jews, and had kept God’s holy days (Leviticus 23), but more likely out of habit, rather than recognizing their rich messianic symbolism as God’s plan for mankind. After Jesus’ ascension to heaven (Acts 1:9) his disciples taught the good news to the nations, many of which were steeped in idol worship and other pagan teachings. After the apostle John’s death a veil fell over the history of God’s church. When it was raised there were two churches: the true church Jesus said would never die (Matthew 16:18), and a false church based partly on Christian ideals, but greatly infused with the old pagan traditions. Most churches today are rooted in the Roman catholic church, and continue the ancient practices of xmas, easter, sun-day worship, and the like. Jesus said the gospel of the kingdom would be preached in all nations, for a witness, before the age of mankind would end (Matthew 24:14). He did not say the nations would be converted; just witnessed to. The church which Jesus said would never die, has continued through the centuries, often with only few families here and there keeping its precepts. Then, in later years, a few people like Ellen G White were called to enlarge the true church. They didn’t have all the truth, but they did what they could with what they had. With the advent of radio and high-speed printing, others lead by Herbert W Armstrong and his son Garner Ted, enlarged the church even more. They, too, didn’t have all the truth, but they did what they could with what they had. And with the internet more of God’s word is going farther afield. But the day is coming, perhaps in our lifetime, when the truth will suddenly be buried (Amos 8:11-12), and the Romish system will be the only Christianity allowed. Soon after the burial there will be a world-wide cataclysm so terrible nobody would survive, except….. …for the sake of true Christians the time will be cut short (Matthew 24:22). But then what? Man’s world will have been destroyed to the ground. The earth will need renewing (Revelation 21:5). The great oceans and rivers will have been poisoned, so healing waters will flow from Jerusalem to cleanse them (Ezekiel 47:1-9; Revelation 22:1-2). Pollution of the air and earth, caused by weapons of mass destruction, will need to be neutralized. New vegetation will need to grow, and the stock of animals, birds, and sea life will have to be renewed. But who will do the work? Those who, in their lifetimes, turned away from the ancient religious systems (Revelation 18:4), and have been given eternal life in a glorified body (1 Corinthians 15:51-53; 1 John 3:2) will be priests and kings (Revelation 1:6; 5:10; 20:6). But what value are kings and priests if there’s no one to rule or teach? Many humans will have escaped death during the cataclysm. The resurrected Christians will heal their wounds and diseases, and supervise their work as they construct barns and houses, plant vineyards, and perform other restorative work. They will also teach them more of God’s way of life. “More” of God’s way, because they will have already been witnessed to (Matthew 24:14). Jesus said, in the resurrection there will be no marrying or giving in marriage, as resurrected Christians will have a different bodily composition (Matthew 22:30). But Isaiah said God’s kingdom will increase forever (Isaiah 9:6-7). During the time of restoration babies will be born to surviving humans to begin that increase. All this work, and regeneration of the species, will continue for one thousand years (Revelation 20:5-6). Then, those who are still in their graves will be resurrected into a magnificent, renewed world (John 5:28). This includes all those who continued to practice the ancient pre-Christ rituals. It also includes Adolph Hitler, Sadam Hussein, and their like, and even Jesus’ betrayer Judas Iscariot. Some, who are in places we don’t generally think of as graves, will also be resurrected. They include those who have been cremated, buried at sea, or killed in space disasters. It won’t be difficult for most people to accept God’s way of life. They are the ones the bible says will be resurrected to life (John 5:29). Some, however, will still refuse God’s rule. They will be resurrected to damnation (same verse), will be burned to ashes (Malachi 4:3), and be forgotten forever (Psalm 109:15; Isaiah 26:14). Despite what is written here, we can’t even begin to imagine what awesome wonders are ahead for those who love God (1 Corinthians 2:9, quoted from Isaiah 64:4). And you can be a part of it. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. Despite what you may believe, God’s old testament laws are still relevant today. Copyright 2004 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org Church was over for another week. The Lawsons returned home to enjoy a roast pork dinner. Some friends met together at a seafood restaurant for a feast of lobster tails. And Rex Nolan’s fiancé prepared his favourite Sunday luncheon, shrimp soufflé. What’s wrong with these pictures? Nothing, I guess, if you believe pastor Kelly’s story that God’s law was nailed to the cross. But, there really is a lot wrong with these pictures because the law was not nailed to the cross. God gave his laws to ensure a long, healthy, and enjoyable life. Now I hear someone saying, “Those laws were given to old testament Israel, and have no relevance to us today.” Oh? Doesn’t the bible tell us God is no respecter of persons? Let’s see. Yes, here it is in Romans 2:11. So if he gave laws to ensure a long, healthy, and enjoyable life to Israel, but not to anyone else, wasn’t he playing favourites? “Well, OK,” you say, “but they didn’t have refrigeration back then, so pig meat would spoil quickly in the hot desert air.” Uh, yes. But wouldn’t beef or deer spoil just as quickly? You store your meat in the refrigerator or freezer, don’t you? Besides, the number of Israelites who sojourned in the wilderness is uncountable. Several families would feast on one freshly-killed animal, and nothing would be left to store. “Well somebody said it doesn’t matter what you eat.” That would be Jesus, but that’s not what he said. He said it’s not what goes into the mouth that makes a person ceremonially unclean, but the words that come out (Matthew 15:11). And before you tell me Paul said everything is good to eat, or God told Peter to eat whatever he wanted, let me assure you I have studied the arguments for half of my 60-something years, and they all dissolve under biblical scrutiny. But the arguments in favour of keeping God’s dietary laws stand firm in the light of what we know today. Let’s check it out. God describes specifically which animals are good for food, and which are to be avoided. In Leviticus 11:3 he gives the characteristics of edible animals: their hoof must be in two parts, and they must chew the cud. He repeats this in Deuteronomy 14:16. (As a child I was told if God says something twice in the bible, he really wants us to get it. So he really must want us to get his dietary message.) Not only does God describe the characteristics of edible animals, in Deuteronomy 14:4-8 he names a few so there will be no doubt. Throughout Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 God says, “You may eat this, but not that.” But satan wants us to believe God doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Medical history proves he does. The pig lacks a natural provision for purifying the system: chewing the cud. Dining on pig flesh is particularly liable to result in leprosy, scurvy, and various skin diseases, as well as lymphatic tuberculosis. Got high blood pressure? Avoiding pig meat can help. Sea life with both fins and scales may be eaten (Leviticus 11:9; Deuteronomy 14:9), but those without – shrimp, oysters, lobsters, and catfish are a few – are poisonous to the human body. Why? They’re the garbage-disposal system of the waterways. The American Food and Drug Administration has noted eating oysters, clams, and mussels accounts for 85 percent of all illnesses caused by eating sea life. North Americans have little problem knowing which birds are good for food: they’re the ones sold in most stores. Why not hawks and owls and crows and such? Read Leviticus 11:13-19 and Deuteronomy 14:12-18, then consider the use of unclean birds. They’re the rodent control and garbage-disposal system of the earth. You wouldn’t dig through a garbage truck to choose your next meal, would you? The bible frequently speaks of clean and unclean. From what you’ve just read it should be evident clean and unclean is not something ceremonial, but is vital for our physical wellbeing. Study Leviticus and Deuteronomy carefully and consider how each of the laws found there have impacted history, or impact our lives today. You’ll quickly discover why God’s law was not nailed to the cross. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. A sharp-eyed Life Lines reader had some questions about the column “He’d Die For A Penny.” Perhaps you did too. Let’s set the matter straight. Copyright 2004 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org A bumper sticker says, “Christians aren’t perfect; just forgiven.” Last week’s Life Lines column revealed my imperfection when I wrote of my thoughts in Oakwood Cemetery. I stated, “Buried there, awaiting their resurrection when Jesus Christ returns, are my aunts and uncles, grandparents and great grandparents, cousins and friends, Dad, and my first wife Jeannette.” Four words engendered a reader’s concern. He wrote, “I've gotten what must be some bad info lately.” He’s right, and I’m the one who gave it. The paragraph should have read, Buried there, awaiting their resurrection are…Dad, and my first wife Jeannette. It was the words “when Jesus Christ returns” that caused the confusion. Your bible says no one has gone to heaven, except Jesus (John 3:13). Peter confirmed this in Acts 2:29 when he said, “…let me freely speak to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us to this day.” Peter’s listeners, Jews from many countries, had likely heard non-biblical go-to-heaven theories, so he emphasized his statement with different words, “David is not ascended into the heavens… (vs 34).” Between Jesus and Peter we know Christians are not wafted off to heavenly bliss when they die. That’s why my relatives and friends are buried in Oakwood Cemetery awaiting their resurrection. So what’s the big deal? Simply this: there’s two kinds of Christians. There’s the ordinary go-to-heaven Christian who worships on sun-day, and observes xmas and easter, and such. The other is the Christian who, like Jesus Christ, Peter, Paul and the other apostles, observes the seventh-day sabbath, and the holy days of Leviticus 23. They also observe the rest of God’s law that frees them from ancient Persian and Babylonian, and modern catholic teachings that have no part in the Christian life. Part two of the big deal is there are two resurrections. One is mentioned in Revelation 20:6 where John wrote, “Blessed and holy is he that has part in the first resurrection…” Why is he blessed? “…on such the second death has no power…” Not only that, “…they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.” Would God? Could God give priestly authority to those who, in this life, were indoctrinated with false teachings? Obviously not. So those in the first resurrection must be those who had already been freed from them, as Jesus told us, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).” Paul wrote, “We shall not all [die], but we shall all be changed…at the last trump…and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).” When will the last trump be blown? “And the seventh angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven saying, ‘The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord…and he shall reign for ever and ever’ (Revelation 11:16).” This cannot take place until Jesus Christ returns to earth as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:11-16). A first resurrection implies a second, so who do you think will be returned to life in that one? My loved ones, and yours, who never understood the truth that would have made them free. These are the rest of the dead of whom Revelation 20:5 states, “…lived not again until the thousand years were finished.” There’s a frightening thought in this. Eternal death in the lake of fire could be the fate of those in the second resurrection (Revelation 20:15). But would God want that for Dad who taught me the truth as best he understood it? Or for Jeannette on whose gravestone I had scripted, “She Served Her Lord Well.” Not at all. On their resurrection they, and your loved ones, will be taught the truth, and will have their first opportunity to be freed from the old teachings, and from the second death. So why is there lake of fire and a second, eternal, death? A few may adamantly refuse to obey God’s law, especially the incorrigibly wicked who, in life, habitually had their part in the evils of the world, such as the Hitlers, the Stalins, the bin Ladens and the Husseins. Thanks be to God whose Amazing Grace will allow everyone to have an opportunity for eternal life in an unimaginably wonderful, peaceful, love-filled world if they so choose it. When they do God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away (Revelation 21:4)." You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. Sometimes nothing you can say is the best thing you can say. Copyright 2004 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org Just two little words. But did they get me into hot water! As a volunteer I often spend time in the office of a nice young lady. We sometimes email each other, and speak on the phone. Betty often teases that there’s something going on between us. (Hey! I’m well into my sixties, and my friend is only….. Well, it’s not polite to tell a woman’s age, is it?) Now about that hot water business. One morning the young lady phoned, and after our brief discussion I said, “Goodbye,” or so I thought. “I heard that!” called Betty from another room. “Heard what?” I asked. “You know what. I heard you say, ‘Goodbye dear’.” Oh! Oh! Did I? I don’t know. But I suppose it’s possible. I had been typing an email to our granddaughter when the phone rang. Those who are grandfathers know how easy it is to call a lovely granddaughter Dear. When I said “Goodbye” to the lady on the phone, I must have had Bylynnda on my mind, and may have said, “Goodbye dear.” (Note, I said “may.” Have to be careful not to incriminate myself.) After Betty’s “I heard that!” I thought I should explain. Fortunately, sanity took over as I opened my mouth, and I shut it again quick. Sometimes it’s better to say nothing, than to add more heat to the already boiling water. Jesus knew there are times to speak, and times when it is best to say nothing. In Matthew 26:47-57 we read that Jesus was dragged off to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the scribes and elders were assembled. This was the ultimate kangaroo court. The chief priests, the elders, and the entire council had been looking about for some blokes to testify against Jesus. It took a while before they found two who suited their purposes. Strange people, the hierarchy of the Jewish church in 31 AD. They wanted Jesus dead, not because he deserved to be executed, but because of their own selfish interests. They were talking murder (John 11:47-53)! Say, isn’t that against God’s law (Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 5:17)? Sure is. But that didn’t bother them. All they needed was a couple rowdies who would agree on one point so they could put Jesus to death. You see, the law said nobody could be executed on the testimony of one person. There had to be at least two (Deuteronomy 17:16). The religionists eventually found their flunkies, so they could now execute Jesus without being guilty of murder. So we see Jesus, standing in front of an un-holy court, hearing blasphemous charges against him, and being badgered by the high priest, yet saying nothing. What could he say? The religious hooligans had already decided to murder him. Nothing he could say would change that. So it is, there are times when it’s best to let sanity take over, rather than getting into the fray by speaking back. It’s amazing how effective silence can be. And one-sided arguments never last very long. As for Betty, it seems she has forgiven me for my supposed indiscretion. But I will be careful how I say Goodbye in the future. I wouldn’t want Betty to say Goodbye. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. Turn off the telly, the game boxes, and the radio, and spend an evening with God’s word. You’ll be amazed at the ways God reveals himself from the words of his scriptures. Copyright April 09, 2006 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org A retired school teacher, visiting at a student’s home, asked, “Where are the books?” Fifty years ago, when you visited someone’s home, you likely browsed through their collection of books. You might find Tom Sawyer and its companion, Huckleberry Finn. Someone might have The Combined Works of William Shakespeare, various books of poetry, Anne of Green Gables, or even A Collection of Latin Classics. Webster’s Dictionary was part of everybody’s book shelf, and a table next to the easy chair generally supported a King James bible. But where are the books today? They’ve been replaced by The Sunday Scum and other tabloid rags, a pile of romance – a.k.a. sex – novels, a television in every room, and Game Boys and X-Boxes. Father no longer comes home from a hard day at work, to relax among the pages of Don Quixote or Sir Walter Scott’s The Talisman. Instead he is greeted by the rat-a-tat-tat of video games, and foul-mouthed curses when Junior fails to shoot down the space invader. Proponents of the games claim they help children develop hand-eye coordination, but what good is that when they can’t even spell cordna… crodit… kordinton? Whatever! They’d get better hand-eye coordination looking up the word in the dictionary. It’s often said, “The only difference between men and boys is the price of their toys.” Even that price gap is narrowing year by year as the price of boy toys rises higher and higher. About the only reading anyone does is to check the balance on their credit card bills. As the number of toys increases, so does the number of neurotics. The sale of prescription nerve medicines is at an all-time high. So is the sale of illegal drugs designed to induce a temporary escape from reality. Too often that escape becomes permanent as users jump from high buildings, believing they can fly. Such escape is rarely seen among people who share a few hours each week with Ali Babba and the Forty Thieves, or fish the deep waters with The Old Man and the Sea, or sail the high seas with Robinson Crusoe and his crew. (I would have used Sinbad as an example, but the only Sinbad most people know is an entertainer on the boob tube.) Books? I’m well connected with Ourtown’s Public Library, and see boxes of great books donated by people who’ve lost the desire to read. Ditto, Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and St Vincent de Paul thrift shops. But let the telly announce a book that opposes the bible message, and booksellers can’t keep it on the shelf. The most recent is the supposed discovery of a tattered papyrus purporting to show that Jesus conspired to have Judas betray him. When this so-called Gospel of Judas hits the bookshelves, the cash registers will go Ca-ching, Ca-ching. Even when it’s exposed as spurious – which I assure you on the word of God, Revelation 22:18-19, it is – people, wanting to appear intellectual, will cite it as truth, just as they have done with the so-called Gospel of Thomas. So, where are the books? The truly great books? They’re in one volume called The Bible. Turn off the telly and read one chapter each day. You’ll be amazed how the God man rejects, reveals himself through the words of his scriptures. A good place to begin? Psalm 1:1. It begins, “Happy is the man….” You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. How, where do you worship God? Do you even know who God is? Many people won’t use the name God, referring to him instead as the universe, the prime existence, and so on. No wonder we have national, and personal problems. Copyright 2002 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org You have, no doubt, read Anne Graham’s response to why God let the events of September 11, 2001, take place. Anne said, “I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman he is, I believe he has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us his blessing and his protection if we demand he leave us alone?" Someone has attached to Anne Graham’s response, a list of people and events on which we can comfortably hang our excuses. It reads, in part: “I think it started when Madalyn Murray O'Hare complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said, ‘OK’.” It continues saying someone said you’d better not read the Bible in school.... And we said OK. Then Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave.... And we said OK. The article refers to letting our daughters have abortions, and giving our sons condoms so they can have all the fun they want. It speaks of our non-concern about what elected officials do in private. It refers to skin magazines calling pictures of nude women appreciation for the female body. It refers to the entertainment industry’s promotion of profanity, violence, and illicit sex, and music that encourages rape, drugs, murder, suicide, and satanic themes. In all this we said, “OK.” There’s no need to continue the litany. If you’ve read it you know what it says. But is Madalyn Murray O'Hare to blame? Or Dr Spock? Are the abortion clinics to blame? We love to see protests in front of those places. Can we blame the president and members of his government? Oh, it’s easy to hang our excuses on them. But we have kicked God out of our national lives -- and I'm not just speaking of the United States -- and out of our personal lives as well. Many church-going people don't really want God in their lives, but it looks good to be seen on Sunday morning. I've talked with people who speak of God as fate, destiny, the little child within, the universe, or whatever concept they can conjure up. They say they're nearest to God in their garden, or in the solitude of their cottage lake. Many say they worship him in their own way, yet they never say what their way is. But few speak of him as a loving father to whom they owe total love and allegiance. And even fewer -- and I confess I'm not among them -- have a 24-7 active relationship with God, relying totally on him. Yes, Anne Graham spoke the truth, but we’ve found a whole lot of people to hang our excuses on. Madalyn O'Hare didn't start it; it began in our homes, when we let worldly lusts take over our love for the gentlemanly father Anne Graham said we have told to get out of our lives. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. Here’s some questions with surprising answers. See how many you can solve before you check the answers. Copyright 1995 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org Questions:
Answers:
You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. In all the news about attacking Iraq, God has been left out of the picture. Will the so-called Christian countries do an about-face and turn to God before it’s too late? Copyright 2003 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org When two aircraft crashed into the twin towers in Manhattan, the United States was warned, “Your people will never sleep soundly again.” The implication was, of course, that America would forever live in fear of their enemies. The warning has come true, but it’s not those outside of the United States who are fostering fear in the people. Our emotional enemies live among us, and breed fear by the daily build-up of the war machine in the Persian Gulf. I believe the United States has the man- and fire-power to destroy Saddam Hussein, but just like the Gulf war of recent years, I don’t believe they will succeed. Following September 11, 2001, America experienced an intense outburst of patriotic emotion. “God Bless America” was part of every newscast. Flags were flown on houses that had never before had a flag-pole. Ministers and priests suddenly became fervent in their sermons. But behind all the bravado and emotion was the question, “Where is God?” The problem is, when war is declared, and I believe it soon will be, with or without a valid cause for attacking, we may see a counter-attack that will send us reeling. Our troops could be decimated, and thousands could return home physically and mentally destroyed. America will again cry out, “Where is God?” Adlai Stevenson Jr. stated, “Patriotism is not a short and frenzied outburst of emotion but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.” The same goes for righteousness. But America has treated God like a genie in a bottle, corked up until we want him to do our will. Righteousness can go to hell. We’ll live our hedonistic lives to the fullest, and forget about our genie in the bottle. Then, when disaster strikes at home, or in lands far away, we’ll wonder, “Where is God?” Listen carefully, America. You may hear a muffled voice saying, “I’m in here, right where you left me.” God doesn’t have to involve himself in our battles. He never made such a promise. In fact, there have been times when he has taken a hands-off approach to his chosen people because of their wickedness. The Israelites were reasonably obedient to God during their sojourn in the wilderness. But once they were settled in Palestine they did just as the Americans have done. They went after other gods, and corked up the true God in a genie bottle. Time went by, and when things looked bad the Israelites finally uncorked the bottle, but God said, “Sorry folks, you’ve made your bed, now sleep in it.” As a result, in 721 BC, Israel was taken into captivity, and eventually became scattered to the four winds. They’re known today as the lost tribes of Israel (2 Kings 17:1-20). It wasn’t that God couldn’t help his people: he simply decided not to. And when the modern Israelite tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim -- the United States and Great Britain -- go marching as to war, God may tell them, “I’m quite comfortable in my bottle. You go on without me. I’ll watch it all on television.” Long ago God asked, “You simpletons...How long will you go on being fools? How long will you scoff at wisdom and fight the facts (Proverbs 1:22 Living Bible)?” He continued, “Come here and listen to me! I'll pour out the spirit of wisdom upon you and make you wise. I have called you so often, but still you won’t come. I have pleaded, but all in vain. For you have spurned my counsel and reproof. Some day you’ll be in trouble, and I’ll laugh! Mock me, will you? I’ll mock you! When a storm of terror surrounds you, and when you are engulfed by anguish and distress, then I will not answer your cry for help. It will be too late though you search for me ever so anxiously. For you closed your eyes to the facts and did not choose to reverence and trust the Lord, and you turned your back on me, spurning my advice. That is why you must eat the bitter fruit of having your own way, and experience the full terrors of the pathway you have chosen. For you turned away from me to death; your own complacency will kill you. Fools (verses 23-32).” There still is hope, however, but it will require an immediate, nation-wide, genuine turn to God. In verse 33 he promises, “But all who listen to me shall live in peace and safety, unafraid.” Where is God? Wherever America wants him. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. The orthodox Jewish radio personality, Dr Laura Schlessinger, apparently said homosexuality is an abomination and cannot be condoned in any circumstance. The following tongue-in-cheek letter was penned by a listener, and posted on the internet. My responses follow each question in blue. Copyright 2004 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org Dear Dr. Laura: Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I have learned a great deal from your show, and try to share the knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone defends the homosexual lifestyle, for example, I remind them Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination. End of debate. I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some other laws and how to follow them. You have studied these things extensively, so I am confident you can help. Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal and unchanging. Your devoted disciple and adoring fan. a) When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice it creates a pleasing odour for the Lord (Leviticus 1:9). The problem is my neighbours claim the odour isn’t pleasing to them. Should I smite them? Why are you sacrificing a bull? Only the priests are to do that, and at the door of the tabernacle. Even if you are a priest of the Aaronic line, the tabernacle no longer exists, so go about your proper business and leave your neighbours alone. b) I would like to sell my daughter into slavery as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. What do you think would be a fair price for her? Whatever dollar value you place on your daughter is far too little compared to what her true worth should be to you. c) I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of menstrual uncleanness (Leviticus 15:19-24). The problem is, how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offence. The bible says you shall not commit adultery (Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 5:18), and flee fornication (1 Corinthians 6:18). If you’re single you shouldn’t be concerned about the time of a woman’s month. If you’re married your wife will surely let you know. d) Leviticus 25:44 states I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from other nations. My friend claims this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Why can't I own a Canadian? The white, English-speaking nations are descendents of Israel, and this includes the majority of Canadians. If you’re a descendent of Israel you may not purchase slaves from among your brethren. Mexicans, on the other hand, are descendents of non-Israelite nations so, according to God’s law, you are free to purchase a man- or maid-servant from south of the border. Remember, however, you’ll likely have to negotiate purchase prices and wages with the International Union of Slaves and Servants. e) My neighbour insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself? The law is administered by the priests, so you will need to wait until they pass judgement on your neighbour. If he is found guilty then you will cast the first stone, and the rest of the people will follow suit (Deuteronomy 13:9; 21:21; 22:21). f) Another friend says even though eating shellfish is an abomination (Leviticus 11:10), it’s a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? A sin is a sin is a sin. There are no ranks or degrees of sin despite what the Roman catholic church teaches. g) Leviticus 21:20 states I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle room here? Since you are not ordained to offer sacrifices, this verse does not affect you (see vss 17, 21). The priests represented Christ, and he, during his time on earth, would be physically, as well as spiritually and mentally, perfect. h) Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Leviticus 19:27. How should they die? In the 21st century a natural death would be best. Your friends are not necessarily descendents of Israel, but if you are perhaps you should set the tonsorial tone for them. i) I know from Leviticus 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves? Despite being called pigskins, footballs are actually made from cowhide, so enjoy your game without gloves. May the best team win. j) My farmer uncle violates Leviticus 19:19 by planting different crops in the same field, as does his wife by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it necessary that we get the whole town together to stone them (Leviticus 24:10-16)? Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws (Leviticus 20:14)? You’re a rather bloodthirsty type, aren’t you? Nothing says planting mingled seed or wearing garments of mingled threads is punishable by death. And you didn’t say what your uncle blasphemes. In many countries one doesn’t blaspheme the Lord’s name, but blasphemes something else, such as the expression “Tabernac” used by the francophones of Canada. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. It’s only three letters with a question mark, but Why? has been the background to man’s advancement for many years. It may also be the background to your salvation. Copyright 2000 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org A little girl watched her mother prepare a roast for the oven. “Why did you cut off the end of the meat, Mommy?” she asked. “Grandma always did,” replied her mother. “Let’s ask her why.” Grandma replied. “I don’t know why, but my mother always cut the end off the meat. Maybe she can tell us.” At the nursing home they asked the elderly lady, “Why did you cut off the end of the roast before putting it in the oven?” “Well, dear,” she replied, “my roasting pan was rather small, and the butcher had such large roasts I had to cut off the end to make it fit.” The saying, “Like father, like son,” is loaded with truth. Watch a young lad walking with his dad. If Dad has an unusual gait, the son will subconsciously imitate it. A television commercial shows a father and his young son in western-style clothing, standing on the porch of an old, western-style store. Dad leans his back against the store’s clapboard wall, crooks his right leg across the left, and stands, thumbs hooked into his belt, with his right toe resting on the porch floor. Guess the how his young son stands? Yep! Just like Dad. Little girls imitate their moms, don’t they? Years ago they’d raid Mom’s closet, and go clomping through the house decked in a hat, a dress, and high-heeled shoes. Imitation is supposed to be the sincerest form of flattery. But imitation can cause problems. Let’s look at the son who imitates his dad’s gait. The odd gait may result from an injury to a hip or knee. If the son continues his imitation very long, the gait may result in a similar injury by throwing his body off balance. Many little girls quickly gave up being just like Mommy when the high heels got caught in the over-sized dress, and tumbled them to the floor. Most sons would rather imitate their dad’s funny gait, than ask why he walked that way. Little daughters wouldn’t think to ask their mothers why they wear high heels, when our feet are basically flat. We’re fortunate the thinkers of the past didn’t simply accept things the way they were. They asked “Why?” and moved us from the days of horse and buggy to interplanetary space travel. Medical practitioners would still rely on leeches and blood-letting to get rid of a patient’s bad blood, except for those who asked “Why?” We sit in comfort because someone asked why our cotton underwear shrunk the first time it was washed. The kitchen crew is pleased that someone asked why the stove needed to be stoked with wood. And the weekend carpenter should give thanks to the person who asked why saw blades need to be straight. If the simple question “Why?” has been such a vital part of our physical and material advancement, shouldn’t we apply it to our spiritual life as well? Before you cut off your salvation, perhaps you should ask Why do you believe What you believe? You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. What is your price? A bowl of stew? A moment of desire? How little is the price you would put on the life of Jesus? Copyright 2004 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org A well known minister was to preach a revival in Beattyville, Kentucky. Before he arrived people put up posters with his picture on them, and telling of the event. One day he rode Chester Deaton's bus to Beattyville. He gave Chester a one dollar bill and Chester gave him back the change. The preacher discovered Chester had given him too much change. He thought to himself, "You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it." Then he argued, "Oh, forget it; it's only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway Chester already gets too much fare; he’ll never miss it. Accept it as a gift from God and keep quiet." At Beattyville he paused before he got off the bus, then handed the quarter to Chester saying, "Here. You gave me too much change." Chester replied with a smile, "Yes I know. You're the preacher who’s holding the revival. I've heard a lot of talk about you. I've been thinking about coming to hear you tonight and bringing a bus load of people. But before I did I wanted to know what kind of person you really are. There are many preachers who say they’re preachers but are not really called by God. A lot of so called preachers are not honest. When you got on my bus I recognized you from your pictures on the posters around the county. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change." When the preacher stepped off the bus, he grabbed the nearest light pole, and held on, and said, "Oh, God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter!" We all have our price, don’t we? Adam and Eve sold their opportunity for eternal life, not only for themselves but for all mankind, for a nibble of forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:6-24). Esau sold his right to the family inheritance for a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:27-34). And Potiphar’s wife frequently challenged Joseph to sell his standing with God for a moment of sensual desire (Genesis 39:7-12). A disciple of Jesus Christ, Judas Iscariot by name, sold his master for thirty pieces of silver, and where did it get him? He couldn’t live with his guilt so went out and hanged himself (John 13:21-30; Mark 14:43-45; Matthew 27:3-5). Will you sell Jesus? What is your price? A smutty joke? An obscene video? A booze party? Remember, you are the only bible some people will read. I asked, “Will you sell Jesus? What is your price?” More important is, Will I sell Jesus? What is my price? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Opening account courtesy of Sam Stamper, husband of Chester Deaton’s daughter, Faye ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. Your church is looking for a new leader. Will you choose a man with an upstanding reputation or will you choose my candidate? Copyright 1996 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org A large religious organization is looking for a leader. I solicit your support for the candidate of my choice. Before you make your decision I’ve got to be up-front with you. The man I represent is not a Christian: he’s a Jew who never converted to Christianity. He’s been known to spend a lot of his time with low-lifes: prostitutes, corrupt officials, and money-grubbers. One of his closest associates is even said to be a thief. The man I’m asking you to vote for always seems to be on the wrong side of the religious community. And it’s a wonder the medical profession hasn’t gone after him: he infringes on their territory, yet he’s never applied for a licence. He comes from a well-to-do family, and is thought to own a couple homes of his own. Despite that, his home-town people show him little respect. Even his family seems ashamed of him. Perhaps it’s because of the bunch of rowdies he hangs around with. There’s one more important thing to consider before you cast your ballot: my candidate has been charged with being a common criminal. Now this doesn’t say much in favour of a person who should lead a Christian organization, but he does have some redeeming qualities. He’s young and energetic. He doesn’t have a vehicle of his own. On the rare occasion when he chooses to ride he borrows transportation. Otherwise he walks everywhere. Climbing hills seems to be his favourite form of exercise. He’s a dynamic speaker. Some people agree with him; some do not. One thing is certain, no one who hears him can ignore him. And he’s a splendid story teller. He’s certainly not timid. He speaks his mind, even to the top authorities. He’s got a rather undignified name for one of them. He’s caused more than one public commotion, yet no one’s had the guts to stop him. With the muscles he’s got he could likely take on three or four people at a time, and then come back for more. As I said before, he’s a Jew. But he’s not a racist. He talks openly with non-Jews, even those his fellow Jews won’t do business with. It’s asking a lot when I urge you to vote for the man I support considering his unsavoury reputation, and especially since he is not a Christian. But when you put your X on the ballot, be certain it’s next to the name of the man I represent, Jesus Christ of Nazareth. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. WINDY SISTERS: GOD’S WARNING TO OUR NATIONS How should we pray when great tragedies strike our nations? Be careful. Your prayer may be defying God. Copyright 2005 / Leslie A Turvey laturvey@becon.org Shortly before Hurricane Rita made landfall, an emailed message commanded Rita to return and dissolve into the sea. Perhaps Rita was too busy to read her email, because she just kept on forging ahead. The command was ineffective. Didn’t the authors of the command have enough faith? After all, Jesus said if we have just the tiniest bit of faith we can command mountains and they will move where we want them (Matthew 17:20; Luke 17:6). Certainly the authors had faith, and I believe they were sincere in their faith. Had Rita been just a natural occurrence, I also believe their command would have been effective. I had a problem with their command, however, because I believe it to be at odds with God’s plan. I believe the double whammy of Katrina and Rita hitting the southern states are warnings from the eternal God that we, nationally (and that includes my country of Canada), must change our ways. We are sin-saturated nations -- I don't need to rehearse our sins here -- and God is sorely displeased with us. Until recently God has put a wall of protection around our countries, and has given us a great gift of prosperity. But we have not been thankful to him for it. In fact, we have generally refused to recognize God's hand in our blessings. Now, when God, after centuries of patience, decides to unleash his displeasure on us, well-meaning Christians make commands contrary to his decision. This is akin to commanding God to rescind his displeasure, and let us continue the evil way we have lived. While the people of New Orleans were still wading through the results of Katrina, President Bush said he was declaring a day of prayer for the people affected by the hurricane. I doubt most people even heard his declaration: it was skillfully tucked in the middle of a how-great-we-are speech. What A Gutless Declaration! The President should have thundered the sins of our nations, and declared a day of prayer and fasting for God’s forgiveness, and to ask God to help us get back on track with him. But that would be politically incorrect, wouldn’t it? The President might worry about political correctness, but the eternal creator God despises it. He expects our leaders to be strong, and to lead us in God’s direction, despite the un-Godly term “politically correct.” Where are the great spiritual leaders of the country? I’m not aware of any powerful denouncement of our individual and national sins by the Billy Graham team, nor of any Graham denouncement of the President for not having done his job. I’m not surprised, however. After all, Billy Graham is not known as The Friend of Presidents for nothing. What we need is a spiritual leader who will be a burr in the presidential saddle. I don’t pretend to be a prophet, but I foresee more and more disasters coming our way, as God’s way of telling us to get back on track with him. But will we listen? Dumb question. The apostle John, seeing into our future, wrote about God’s coming punishment, “Great hail fell from heaven, each piece weighing a hundred pounds.” But will the people say, “OK God, you’ve made your point. We’ll obey you.” The verse continues, “…and men blasphemed God because of the hail (Revelation 16:21).” We need to be careful what we pray for. Despite our good intentions, our prayers may be at odds with what God is doing. You may contact the Life Lines author at laturvey@becon.org. |
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