Appointment
An appointment has been made that each one of us will soon have to keep. Some appointments can be changed or cancelled, but not this one! This is an appointment that cannot be altered. It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. The Bible tells us that Everyone of us shall give account of himself to God.
Many people are living their lives as if they will live forever. They like to think that they can do as they please. They deceived themselves that they are answerable to no-one. But the Bible tells us that this is not so! Try as they may to ignore the facts, reality catches up with everyone in the end.
Each individual will one day come face to face with the solemn reality of the holy God, a God who hates sin!
God knows the history of every person who has ever lived. He knows every action, every word and every thought. He knows what we are like inside. The Bible tells us. All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
We see evidence all around us of the fact that man is a sinful and a dying creature. We are all passing through life and will soon be gone.
The Bible tells us that God has provided a way of salvation, a way that guilty sinners can be forgiven and be reconciled to God. This is good news indeed!
God sent the Lord Jesus Christ into the world. He died upon the cross as a spotless sacrifice to save His people from their sins. God accepted the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made and has proved this by raising Him from the dead!
Jesus is the only way that sinners can be saved.
The Bible tells us He that believeth in the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Jesus said If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
Reader, now is the time to consider these things, for one day it will be too late!
Many people are living their lives as if they will live forever. They like to think that they can do as they please. They deceived themselves that they are answerable to no-one. But the Bible tells us that this is not so! Try as they may to ignore the facts, reality catches up with everyone in the end.
Each individual will one day come face to face with the solemn reality of the holy God, a God who hates sin!
God knows the history of every person who has ever lived. He knows every action, every word and every thought. He knows what we are like inside. The Bible tells us. All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
We see evidence all around us of the fact that man is a sinful and a dying creature. We are all passing through life and will soon be gone.
The Bible tells us that God has provided a way of salvation, a way that guilty sinners can be forgiven and be reconciled to God. This is good news indeed!
God sent the Lord Jesus Christ into the world. He died upon the cross as a spotless sacrifice to save His people from their sins. God accepted the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made and has proved this by raising Him from the dead!
Jesus is the only way that sinners can be saved.
The Bible tells us He that believeth in the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Jesus said If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
Reader, now is the time to consider these things, for one day it will be too late!
Are you a Christian?
Well, for a start, what is a Christian anyway? So many people have different ideas. We need to turn to God’s book, the Bible, to find out what God says on the subject.
The apostle John, who was specially close to the Lord Jesus, gives us the following tests. Apply them to yourself to see whether you are a Christian.
1. A Christian lives in the light of God If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practise the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:6-7).
The Bible is the light that God has given us. A Christian is someone who will seek to live according to the teaching of the Bible.
2. A Christian does not pretend to be perfect If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us (1 John 1:8).
Although, as we have said, a Christian seeks to live according to the Bible, he or she never completely succeeds, because we are never perfect in this life. A Christian, then, acknowledges to God and to other people that he or she still falls far short of God’s holy standard.
3. A Christian loves others Christians He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause of stumbling in him (1 John 2:9-10).
Jesus commanded His disciples to love another and said that it would be by their love for one another that the rest of the world would believe their message.
4. A Christian believes that Jesus is the Christ and the Son of God Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; but he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also (1 John 2:22-23).
The Christ, or Messiah, was the One for whom the Jews were supposed to be waiting, the One to whom the whole of the Old Testament points forward. Amongst other things, the Christ was prophesied to take away sin, and also to reign forever as God’s appointed Ruler. A Christian is someone who believes that all the Old Testament prophecies about the Christ are, or will be, fulfilled in Jesus.
Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God (1 John 4:15).
Some people acknowledge Jesus to be the Christ, but stops short of admitting he is the Son of God. Others will call Him Son of God, but make out that somehow that makes Him less than God. But Jesus made it plain that anything the Father did, He could do. Who but God could claim to do everything that God does? An earthly son is just as human as his father, and the Son of God is just as divine as His Father.
5. A Christian has the Holy Spirit Now he who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us (1 John 3:24).
We have each been born physically when we came into this world. But we each need also to be born spiritually, born of God’s Holy Spirit. Not until we are, do we become Christians. When a person is born spiritually, then God’s Spirit takes us residence within him or her. The Holy Spirit helps us to become holy, more like the Lord Jesus. He also helps us to pray and to understand the Bible better.
How do you match up to these five tests? Maybe before you read this, you thought you were a Christian. Maybe others also thought you were. But in the light of what the Bible says on the subject, are you really?
The apostle John, who was specially close to the Lord Jesus, gives us the following tests. Apply them to yourself to see whether you are a Christian.
1. A Christian lives in the light of God If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practise the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:6-7).
The Bible is the light that God has given us. A Christian is someone who will seek to live according to the teaching of the Bible.
2. A Christian does not pretend to be perfect If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us (1 John 1:8).
Although, as we have said, a Christian seeks to live according to the Bible, he or she never completely succeeds, because we are never perfect in this life. A Christian, then, acknowledges to God and to other people that he or she still falls far short of God’s holy standard.
3. A Christian loves others Christians He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause of stumbling in him (1 John 2:9-10).
Jesus commanded His disciples to love another and said that it would be by their love for one another that the rest of the world would believe their message.
4. A Christian believes that Jesus is the Christ and the Son of God Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; but he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also (1 John 2:22-23).
The Christ, or Messiah, was the One for whom the Jews were supposed to be waiting, the One to whom the whole of the Old Testament points forward. Amongst other things, the Christ was prophesied to take away sin, and also to reign forever as God’s appointed Ruler. A Christian is someone who believes that all the Old Testament prophecies about the Christ are, or will be, fulfilled in Jesus.
Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God (1 John 4:15).
Some people acknowledge Jesus to be the Christ, but stops short of admitting he is the Son of God. Others will call Him Son of God, but make out that somehow that makes Him less than God. But Jesus made it plain that anything the Father did, He could do. Who but God could claim to do everything that God does? An earthly son is just as human as his father, and the Son of God is just as divine as His Father.
5. A Christian has the Holy Spirit Now he who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us (1 John 3:24).
We have each been born physically when we came into this world. But we each need also to be born spiritually, born of God’s Holy Spirit. Not until we are, do we become Christians. When a person is born spiritually, then God’s Spirit takes us residence within him or her. The Holy Spirit helps us to become holy, more like the Lord Jesus. He also helps us to pray and to understand the Bible better.
How do you match up to these five tests? Maybe before you read this, you thought you were a Christian. Maybe others also thought you were. But in the light of what the Bible says on the subject, are you really?
Christmas ends loneliness
Have you ever been lonely? This is something we all have felt, if we are honest. What is loneliness? It does seem a very nice word, does it? It is being on your own and not being very pleased about it. The song:
“The sun ain’t gonna shine anymore” by The Walker Brothers was famous in the 1960s. Did you ever notice the lyrics?
Loneliness is the cloak you wear
A deep shade of blue is always there…
Loneliness is a big problem. Is it for you a deep shade of blue that is always there? This is true for everyone. Many feel this keenly this time of year. Many acknowledge this and have sought to diagnose the human condition in a manner that is very profound.
“The whole conviction of my life now rests upon the belief that loneliness, far from being a rare and curious phenomenon, peculiar to myself and to a few other solitary men, is the central and inevitable fact of human existence.” (Thomas Wolfe, Cries of the Heart)
Have you felt the crushing burden of loneliness?
And note this verse from the New Testament, in Matthew chapter 1 and verse 23: “They will call his name Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.’”
“With us? How? What do you mean that this is significant at Christmas? It’s a great time.”
I do not mean the endless shopping and the whole pressure that this time of year puts on all families. The commercial world needs Christmas and spends £1000s on advertising. I do not mean TV schedules with so many films to watch. I do not mean the lovely food we have. Or the friends we meet up with again. There is a side of Christmas that actually increases loneliness. This is a strange comment to make, but it is a true one. You know that as well as I do. The fact I want you to understand is this: Christmas means the end of loneliness. How come? It is because the Lord Jesus Christ came from Heaven to end our spiritual loneliness. That is what his name means: “Immanuel – God with us”.
Loneliness is everyone’s problem
God saw that it was not good for Man to be alone. It says in the first book of the Bible, Genesis, chapter 2 verse 18, “The LORD God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helpful suitable for him.’” “I love loneliness,” says someone. I don’t think so. One of the worst things about loneliness is that you cannot run away from it. Have you tried? Were you successful? No, you were not. Jesus came to end that loneliness. There is no one here who has never known loneliness. We all have, me included. I checked out the word “loneliness” on a Google search on the Net and there were over 8 million references and websites mentioned. This is a great, great problem.
Loneliness is everyone’s prison
I went prison visiting once and there was a problem with a prisoner gone missing. As a result, all of us visitors were locked up. I was rather concerned to say the least! Did you know you and I carry around our own inner prison? It is a spiritual darkness deep within, and do you know what that is called? It is sin. It is awareness that all of us are separated from God. In saying God is with us, it means near by. “I have never felt that,” says one. In the section in the Bible called the New Testament there is a book called Acts of the Apostles. In chapter 17 verses 26-27 it says, “From one man he made very nation of men that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.” He is near to those who call on him and come to him. You may know this for yourself.
He is the one who comes to free us from the inner prison that we have within us. In the New Testament, this time in John’s Gospel, we read in chapter 6 verses 35-37, “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. But as I told you, you have seen me and you still do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.’” That is how Jesus ends your loneliness. So many fail to see this because they are distracted by many things. Is this not true for you? The biggest obstacle there is to coming to know Jesus as Lord and Saviour is pride. That is seen in many different ways. It is when all you and I think of is self. “There is none more lonely than the one who loves only himself.” Loneliness is inner emptiness. Jesus is “God with us” if we but call to him to fill the empty space in our lives and forgive our sin.
Loneliness is everyone’s preacher
“Excuse me,” you say, “what do you mean?” We are all made by God with a God-shaped void inside us. In the Old Testament this was written by a man who had everything. Ecclesiastes chapter 3 verse 11: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” That sums up the ache in his heart, and yours too if you are honest. Unless and until that is filled, you and I are lonely. We are desperately lonely. What do we need? Here is another song we all know very well and it summed up the yearning of a whole generation:
All you need is love.
All you need is love.
All you need is love, love.
Love is all you need.
Loneliness preaches to us today. But are we listening?
DH Lawrence wrote, “We want to delude ourselves that of the problem of our emptiness, love is at the root. I want to say to you that it isn’t. Love is only the branches. The root goes beyond love. A naked kind of isolation. An isolated me that does not meet and mingle and never can. It is true what I say. There is a beyond in me which goes further than love, beyond the scope of the stars. Just as some stars are beyond the scope of our vision, so our own search goes beyond the scope of love. At least, I think that it is at the root, going beyond love itself” (ibid.).
The deeper need is not just the branches. It is something more profound. I need to know the love of God in Jesus Christ personally. He is the bread of life for starving souls. I need him, and so do you. You need to know the forgiveness of sins that he alone offers. That is why he came. This is the whole reason for Christmas. And that sense of loneliness speaks to us and preaches to us. Are you heeding? Have you yielded all you have to him? Loneliness ends when you do.
“The sun ain’t gonna shine anymore” by The Walker Brothers was famous in the 1960s. Did you ever notice the lyrics?
Loneliness is the cloak you wear
A deep shade of blue is always there…
Loneliness is a big problem. Is it for you a deep shade of blue that is always there? This is true for everyone. Many feel this keenly this time of year. Many acknowledge this and have sought to diagnose the human condition in a manner that is very profound.
“The whole conviction of my life now rests upon the belief that loneliness, far from being a rare and curious phenomenon, peculiar to myself and to a few other solitary men, is the central and inevitable fact of human existence.” (Thomas Wolfe, Cries of the Heart)
Have you felt the crushing burden of loneliness?
And note this verse from the New Testament, in Matthew chapter 1 and verse 23: “They will call his name Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.’”
“With us? How? What do you mean that this is significant at Christmas? It’s a great time.”
I do not mean the endless shopping and the whole pressure that this time of year puts on all families. The commercial world needs Christmas and spends £1000s on advertising. I do not mean TV schedules with so many films to watch. I do not mean the lovely food we have. Or the friends we meet up with again. There is a side of Christmas that actually increases loneliness. This is a strange comment to make, but it is a true one. You know that as well as I do. The fact I want you to understand is this: Christmas means the end of loneliness. How come? It is because the Lord Jesus Christ came from Heaven to end our spiritual loneliness. That is what his name means: “Immanuel – God with us”.
Loneliness is everyone’s problem
God saw that it was not good for Man to be alone. It says in the first book of the Bible, Genesis, chapter 2 verse 18, “The LORD God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helpful suitable for him.’” “I love loneliness,” says someone. I don’t think so. One of the worst things about loneliness is that you cannot run away from it. Have you tried? Were you successful? No, you were not. Jesus came to end that loneliness. There is no one here who has never known loneliness. We all have, me included. I checked out the word “loneliness” on a Google search on the Net and there were over 8 million references and websites mentioned. This is a great, great problem.
Loneliness is everyone’s prison
I went prison visiting once and there was a problem with a prisoner gone missing. As a result, all of us visitors were locked up. I was rather concerned to say the least! Did you know you and I carry around our own inner prison? It is a spiritual darkness deep within, and do you know what that is called? It is sin. It is awareness that all of us are separated from God. In saying God is with us, it means near by. “I have never felt that,” says one. In the section in the Bible called the New Testament there is a book called Acts of the Apostles. In chapter 17 verses 26-27 it says, “From one man he made very nation of men that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.” He is near to those who call on him and come to him. You may know this for yourself.
He is the one who comes to free us from the inner prison that we have within us. In the New Testament, this time in John’s Gospel, we read in chapter 6 verses 35-37, “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. But as I told you, you have seen me and you still do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.’” That is how Jesus ends your loneliness. So many fail to see this because they are distracted by many things. Is this not true for you? The biggest obstacle there is to coming to know Jesus as Lord and Saviour is pride. That is seen in many different ways. It is when all you and I think of is self. “There is none more lonely than the one who loves only himself.” Loneliness is inner emptiness. Jesus is “God with us” if we but call to him to fill the empty space in our lives and forgive our sin.
Loneliness is everyone’s preacher
“Excuse me,” you say, “what do you mean?” We are all made by God with a God-shaped void inside us. In the Old Testament this was written by a man who had everything. Ecclesiastes chapter 3 verse 11: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” That sums up the ache in his heart, and yours too if you are honest. Unless and until that is filled, you and I are lonely. We are desperately lonely. What do we need? Here is another song we all know very well and it summed up the yearning of a whole generation:
All you need is love.
All you need is love.
All you need is love, love.
Love is all you need.
Loneliness preaches to us today. But are we listening?
DH Lawrence wrote, “We want to delude ourselves that of the problem of our emptiness, love is at the root. I want to say to you that it isn’t. Love is only the branches. The root goes beyond love. A naked kind of isolation. An isolated me that does not meet and mingle and never can. It is true what I say. There is a beyond in me which goes further than love, beyond the scope of the stars. Just as some stars are beyond the scope of our vision, so our own search goes beyond the scope of love. At least, I think that it is at the root, going beyond love itself” (ibid.).
The deeper need is not just the branches. It is something more profound. I need to know the love of God in Jesus Christ personally. He is the bread of life for starving souls. I need him, and so do you. You need to know the forgiveness of sins that he alone offers. That is why he came. This is the whole reason for Christmas. And that sense of loneliness speaks to us and preaches to us. Are you heeding? Have you yielded all you have to him? Loneliness ends when you do.
Christmas means heaven
Christmas means that Heaven has been revealed
Stars and the heavens above fascinate us. They always have done. Astrologers look through their telescopes and see sights so majestic they are amazed. Did you know that at Christmas time Heaven came down to us and has been revealed to us? So it is not just a winter break, a time for the family, and boom time for industry. Jesus was born in the manger around 2000 years ago.
Heaven has been revealed through him
You and I cannot avoid the Lord Jesus Christ, even though we might want to. We will meet with him in life as Saviour, or at death, or when he comes again as Judge. There is a dividing line that separates humanity today. It is between those who receive him, and those who reject him; from those who believe in him, and those who do not.
When we see the dilemma of lost humanity, we must marvel at what God has done to remedy the situation.
In the Bible, in the New Testament section, John's Gospel chapter 1 and verse 14 says, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
These words are simply tremendous and go a great way to show to us the uniqueness of Christianity. They tell us of the Eternal Word, Jesus, the Only Begotten Son of the Father coming to this sad and sin-sick world to be the Saviour of the World. Without what is told us here, none of us could come to know God and the reality of forgiveness of sins.
He took flesh
When the Lord Jesus came to this earth as a baby born in Bethlehem, he did not cease to be God. His deity was not diminished or abandoned in any way. God became man. The word "flesh" means the whole person. Humanity in its frailty, weakness and vulnerability is spoken of here. The Son took upon himself a human body and soul. This continues now forever. He is God and man in two distinct natures, and one person forever.
Why did he do this?
The answer is this - to bring salvation. We cannot save ourselves. God must save us. And yet we have sinned and the relationship must be repaired from our side. But how? The Eternal Word took flesh. This is Jesus. He became man. Now the bridging of the great divide can take place.
He reveals glory
This probably refers to the splendour of his ministry. It certainly is a term used by those who are believers and who have received him. The one who comes to know God sees something of his character and splendour. Jesus alone reveals the true and living God to us. Have you met with him? Oh, when you have, there is a change and a sense of wonder, in that you have come to know God. Not in a theoretical sense, but in reality. Has this happened to you? Jesus reveals Heaven to us.
He is full of grace and truth
This is the nearest we can get to a summary of what the Lord Jesus was and what he did in his ministry. Grace - he was full of kindness and mercy, goodness and graciousness in perfection. Truth - he declared the Truth, that is, himself. there is no falsehood in him at all. No impostor, no deceiver he. Why hesitate in coming to him and trusting him? Read the Bible yourself and see these truths clearly set out. Or ask the person who gave you this note.
He is far greater
Unless Jesus came from the very heart of God to reveal him to us, what hope could there possibly be? Why did he come? Again in the Bible, in the New Testament section, in Hebrews chapter 2 verse 9 we read, "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone."
The Lord is far superior, far greater in these respects:
He is King, Master, Great High Priest, Saviour; he is all these things. The Lord Jesus stands between heaven and earth, and says, "I alone am the Way to God." He alone can bring you to God. Call to him. This is what Christmas truly means.
He dispenses his fullness
This is what his coming has meant for the community of believers known as the church. The church is neither a building nor a denomination. It is people who know the Lord. In the Bible, in the New Testament section, John writes of Jesus (chapter 1 verse 16), "From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another." The people referred to here as "we" are Christians. Not some and yet others: all Christians, if they are true Christians, have received from him. What a debt we owe! How can we not live for him who has given us so much? Do you see how backsliding is base ingratitude? There is infinite fullness in Christ.
He supersedes the Law
Moses was a great man and chosen of God. He was the lawgiver. Again in Hebrews, chapter 3 verse 5, we are told that Moses was a servant. But Jesus is the Son. The Law was never meant to save. That was not its purpose. It never healed. It cut but never bound up. It exposed sin but never could deal with sin. The Law brings wrath. Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ: grave for the heart, truth for the intellect. What a great Saviour and Gospel! How often do those who celebrate Christmas recognize this? Have you come to trust and find new life in him?
He alone declares God
Jesus is the Father's last word. Someone has said, "It is as if God has reached into his very being and plucked out his own heart in sending Christ to us." This verse in John's Gospel declares the absolute uniqueness of the Christian faith that explains the real message of Christmas. No wonder many folk are trying to ban it! Jesus alone reveals God to sinners. Has this been shown to you? It must be so. Call to him now! Do not remain indifferent to him any longer. He welcomes all who come to him. When you do so, you'll have a happy Christmas!
Stars and the heavens above fascinate us. They always have done. Astrologers look through their telescopes and see sights so majestic they are amazed. Did you know that at Christmas time Heaven came down to us and has been revealed to us? So it is not just a winter break, a time for the family, and boom time for industry. Jesus was born in the manger around 2000 years ago.
Heaven has been revealed through him
You and I cannot avoid the Lord Jesus Christ, even though we might want to. We will meet with him in life as Saviour, or at death, or when he comes again as Judge. There is a dividing line that separates humanity today. It is between those who receive him, and those who reject him; from those who believe in him, and those who do not.
When we see the dilemma of lost humanity, we must marvel at what God has done to remedy the situation.
In the Bible, in the New Testament section, John's Gospel chapter 1 and verse 14 says, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
These words are simply tremendous and go a great way to show to us the uniqueness of Christianity. They tell us of the Eternal Word, Jesus, the Only Begotten Son of the Father coming to this sad and sin-sick world to be the Saviour of the World. Without what is told us here, none of us could come to know God and the reality of forgiveness of sins.
He took flesh
When the Lord Jesus came to this earth as a baby born in Bethlehem, he did not cease to be God. His deity was not diminished or abandoned in any way. God became man. The word "flesh" means the whole person. Humanity in its frailty, weakness and vulnerability is spoken of here. The Son took upon himself a human body and soul. This continues now forever. He is God and man in two distinct natures, and one person forever.
Why did he do this?
The answer is this - to bring salvation. We cannot save ourselves. God must save us. And yet we have sinned and the relationship must be repaired from our side. But how? The Eternal Word took flesh. This is Jesus. He became man. Now the bridging of the great divide can take place.
He reveals glory
This probably refers to the splendour of his ministry. It certainly is a term used by those who are believers and who have received him. The one who comes to know God sees something of his character and splendour. Jesus alone reveals the true and living God to us. Have you met with him? Oh, when you have, there is a change and a sense of wonder, in that you have come to know God. Not in a theoretical sense, but in reality. Has this happened to you? Jesus reveals Heaven to us.
He is full of grace and truth
This is the nearest we can get to a summary of what the Lord Jesus was and what he did in his ministry. Grace - he was full of kindness and mercy, goodness and graciousness in perfection. Truth - he declared the Truth, that is, himself. there is no falsehood in him at all. No impostor, no deceiver he. Why hesitate in coming to him and trusting him? Read the Bible yourself and see these truths clearly set out. Or ask the person who gave you this note.
He is far greater
Unless Jesus came from the very heart of God to reveal him to us, what hope could there possibly be? Why did he come? Again in the Bible, in the New Testament section, in Hebrews chapter 2 verse 9 we read, "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone."
The Lord is far superior, far greater in these respects:
- In person. Jesus is the God-man.
- In character. Jesus is sinless.
- In position. Jesus is Lord.
He is King, Master, Great High Priest, Saviour; he is all these things. The Lord Jesus stands between heaven and earth, and says, "I alone am the Way to God." He alone can bring you to God. Call to him. This is what Christmas truly means.
He dispenses his fullness
This is what his coming has meant for the community of believers known as the church. The church is neither a building nor a denomination. It is people who know the Lord. In the Bible, in the New Testament section, John writes of Jesus (chapter 1 verse 16), "From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another." The people referred to here as "we" are Christians. Not some and yet others: all Christians, if they are true Christians, have received from him. What a debt we owe! How can we not live for him who has given us so much? Do you see how backsliding is base ingratitude? There is infinite fullness in Christ.
He supersedes the Law
Moses was a great man and chosen of God. He was the lawgiver. Again in Hebrews, chapter 3 verse 5, we are told that Moses was a servant. But Jesus is the Son. The Law was never meant to save. That was not its purpose. It never healed. It cut but never bound up. It exposed sin but never could deal with sin. The Law brings wrath. Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ: grave for the heart, truth for the intellect. What a great Saviour and Gospel! How often do those who celebrate Christmas recognize this? Have you come to trust and find new life in him?
He alone declares God
Jesus is the Father's last word. Someone has said, "It is as if God has reached into his very being and plucked out his own heart in sending Christ to us." This verse in John's Gospel declares the absolute uniqueness of the Christian faith that explains the real message of Christmas. No wonder many folk are trying to ban it! Jesus alone reveals God to sinners. Has this been shown to you? It must be so. Call to him now! Do not remain indifferent to him any longer. He welcomes all who come to him. When you do so, you'll have a happy Christmas!
Christmas means love
Christmas means that love has come down
We need love, and without love we are deprived of real warmth and meaning. You may have heard of feral children. This is extremely sad. There was a TV programme that showed two children who were cast out of their homes to be brought up by animals, mainly dogs. They were a modern-day Romulus and Remus, who by legend
had been brought up by a she-wolf, and were the founders of Rome. These deprived children were seriously disturbed. The major deprivation was that of love.
And yet we see so many in our day who crave love and have never felt it. How said this is! Social ills in our nation often have this great lack of love as the reason for these troubles. Have you met men and women damaged because of a serious deprivation of love in earlier years? You may be one of them.
We all need to be loved
This poor human race needs love, and this is the great message of Christmas in the Bible, in the New Testament section, in John chapter 3, verse 16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." The great message this Christmas is that God loves you. You may scarcely believe it, but it is true. If you are a Christian, this is a great blessing to consider: "We love because he first loved us." That is from the first letter of John chapter 4, verse 19, in the New Testament section of the Bible.
Here is the great definition
How do I know what love is? Look at what God has done for us in Jesus Christ. The Bible defines love as the ultimate example of self-giving. Jesus Christ died upon the cross so that all who come to him may be saved. It is a great thing to know God personally. Again in the New Testament section of the Bible, this time in John's first letter, he writes this: "God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him." In the film Oliver the opening scene is of the boys of the workhouse singing 'Food, glorious food'. There is a text on the wall and it says, "God is love." The scene then changes to the Beadle and officers of the workhouse enjoying a sumptuous meal. The irony is very sharp. Such men never showed the love of God. Christmas, when properly understood, defines love. And the fitting response is "We love because he first loved us." Christmas tells us that love came down from heaven.
Here is the great gift
This love does not well up in our hearts naturally. It is a gift from God to all who trust and give themselves to the Lord Jesus. How needful to love! How gracious it is of God to love me! In knowing that love personally, I can truly love. How we value love! We value thoughtfulness shown to us. When someone gives themselves to us, it is very moving. Oh, to know the love of God! This Christmas speaks of the reality of God's love. How sad it has been to hear people say to us, "I have never been loved. Used? Yes, used, but not loved." Oh, look to the stable. There Jesus is born. There is love incarnate. Look at the cross and see Jesus dying for sinners such as you and me. That is love! And if he works in our lives, we are able to love others and, supremely, love God. And yet the reverse is true. Jesus hates iniquity, and unrighteousness.
Here is the great response
"We love because he first loved us." When was this? Just today? No. When we first heard the gospel? No, for those who know God's love as a forgiving Father realise that this love was shown even before they were born. When such were helpless and hopeless, this love was shown to them. This love is the deepest, most profound love there is, and it is life-transforming.
Love came down at Christmas,
Love all lovely, Love Divine;
Love was born at Christmas,
Star and angels gave the sign.
Do you love him? There is a great blessing on those who love him. This brings freedom and this brings assurance. This can be yours too!
We need love, and without love we are deprived of real warmth and meaning. You may have heard of feral children. This is extremely sad. There was a TV programme that showed two children who were cast out of their homes to be brought up by animals, mainly dogs. They were a modern-day Romulus and Remus, who by legend
had been brought up by a she-wolf, and were the founders of Rome. These deprived children were seriously disturbed. The major deprivation was that of love.
And yet we see so many in our day who crave love and have never felt it. How said this is! Social ills in our nation often have this great lack of love as the reason for these troubles. Have you met men and women damaged because of a serious deprivation of love in earlier years? You may be one of them.
We all need to be loved
This poor human race needs love, and this is the great message of Christmas in the Bible, in the New Testament section, in John chapter 3, verse 16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." The great message this Christmas is that God loves you. You may scarcely believe it, but it is true. If you are a Christian, this is a great blessing to consider: "We love because he first loved us." That is from the first letter of John chapter 4, verse 19, in the New Testament section of the Bible.
Here is the great definition
How do I know what love is? Look at what God has done for us in Jesus Christ. The Bible defines love as the ultimate example of self-giving. Jesus Christ died upon the cross so that all who come to him may be saved. It is a great thing to know God personally. Again in the New Testament section of the Bible, this time in John's first letter, he writes this: "God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him." In the film Oliver the opening scene is of the boys of the workhouse singing 'Food, glorious food'. There is a text on the wall and it says, "God is love." The scene then changes to the Beadle and officers of the workhouse enjoying a sumptuous meal. The irony is very sharp. Such men never showed the love of God. Christmas, when properly understood, defines love. And the fitting response is "We love because he first loved us." Christmas tells us that love came down from heaven.
Here is the great gift
This love does not well up in our hearts naturally. It is a gift from God to all who trust and give themselves to the Lord Jesus. How needful to love! How gracious it is of God to love me! In knowing that love personally, I can truly love. How we value love! We value thoughtfulness shown to us. When someone gives themselves to us, it is very moving. Oh, to know the love of God! This Christmas speaks of the reality of God's love. How sad it has been to hear people say to us, "I have never been loved. Used? Yes, used, but not loved." Oh, look to the stable. There Jesus is born. There is love incarnate. Look at the cross and see Jesus dying for sinners such as you and me. That is love! And if he works in our lives, we are able to love others and, supremely, love God. And yet the reverse is true. Jesus hates iniquity, and unrighteousness.
Here is the great response
"We love because he first loved us." When was this? Just today? No. When we first heard the gospel? No, for those who know God's love as a forgiving Father realise that this love was shown even before they were born. When such were helpless and hopeless, this love was shown to them. This love is the deepest, most profound love there is, and it is life-transforming.
Love came down at Christmas,
Love all lovely, Love Divine;
Love was born at Christmas,
Star and angels gave the sign.
Do you love him? There is a great blessing on those who love him. This brings freedom and this brings assurance. This can be yours too!
Church: it's not what it seems
Most people will have heard of the church, but few have any idea of what the church really is. Throughout the centuries the church has experienced much opposition and open persecution, yet it has remained as a witness to the world. Many people have misconceptions about the church, based on preconceived ideas, but few have any real idea of its unique position in the world, let alone its origin.
What the church is not
When people hear the world ‘church’ many automatically think of a large, old-looking building with a steeple on top. They picture stained-glass windows and pomp and ceremony, but this is not the true church. The reality goes much deeper than this! The fact is, the church is not a building of bricks and mortar at all. The true church is a people – a very privileged people indeed!
What the church is
The true church is a people who believe the Bible to be the word of God.
The Bible explains the origin and purpose of life. The Bible explains the truth of why the world is in the terrible state we see all around us. The Bible gives us the truth about mankind’s true condition and tells us how this affects our eternal destiny. Many people have their own ideas or are influenced by that which is currently taught by others. They just blindly follow the crow. Only the Bible gives us the facts concerning man’s origin, purpose and destiny. It is vital that we let go of preconceived ideas and seek the truth where alone it can be found. Are you a seeker of truth? Then read the Bible. Seek the Lord while he may be found.
The true church is a people who see life as it really is
The Bible tells us that the human race, from the earliest days of its history, fell into disobedience and open rebellion against God, its creator. The tragic consequences of the fall affect each one of us born into the world to this very day! It affects you, reader!
Have you ever asked yourself why the world is in such a mess? Look around you. What do you see? Wars, famine, greed, selfishness, crime, violence, hatred, etc. This is the human race as it really is! What a pathetic history fallen humanity has! The solemn fact is that everyone is born a member of this sinful race. In God’s sight we are all guilty! Reader, this is the first thing you must grasp. We have all gone our own way. This is sin, and God hates sin. The Bible tells us that God is holy and will one day judge this world. Each one will give an account before God. This is the second thing you must grasp: the reality of coming judgement. What can we say? We are guilty! God knows the history of each one of us. Sin is the cause of all the trouble in the world. It is in all of us.
The true church is a people saved by Jesus Christ
The Bible tells us that God sent the Lord Jesus Christ into the world. He came on a mission, and that mission was to save. The Bible tells us “He shall save his people from their sins”. He was completely without sin and walked perfectly before God.
He died on the cross for sins that were not his own. He came to die! He laid down his life as part of a mission. He offered himself as a spotless sacrifice. He died as a substitute.
Jesus said “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed”. The Bible tells us that he “loved the church and gave himself for it”. God raised Jesus from the dead as proof that he accepted the sacrifice Jesus made. God has declared Jesus to be the only saviour of sinners. And the Bible declares the church to be Christ’s purchased possession.
The true church is a people united to Christ
It is a people who have been made to feel their sinful condition before a holy God. They have come to a place of complete dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ. They are a forgiven people – a people saved from the penalty of sin. They are eternally united to Jesus Christ who is the head of the church – a privileged people indeed!
Reader, be warned!
Those without Christ will be eternally lost! The human race has no reason to feel proud. We should all feel ashamed of ourselves. Reader, do you feel your sins? Do you realise you cannot save yourself? To such, Jesus spoke these words: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light”.
Reader, those who come to Jesus in repentance and faith shall be safe for time and eternity.
What the church is not
When people hear the world ‘church’ many automatically think of a large, old-looking building with a steeple on top. They picture stained-glass windows and pomp and ceremony, but this is not the true church. The reality goes much deeper than this! The fact is, the church is not a building of bricks and mortar at all. The true church is a people – a very privileged people indeed!
What the church is
The true church is a people who believe the Bible to be the word of God.
The Bible explains the origin and purpose of life. The Bible explains the truth of why the world is in the terrible state we see all around us. The Bible gives us the truth about mankind’s true condition and tells us how this affects our eternal destiny. Many people have their own ideas or are influenced by that which is currently taught by others. They just blindly follow the crow. Only the Bible gives us the facts concerning man’s origin, purpose and destiny. It is vital that we let go of preconceived ideas and seek the truth where alone it can be found. Are you a seeker of truth? Then read the Bible. Seek the Lord while he may be found.
The true church is a people who see life as it really is
The Bible tells us that the human race, from the earliest days of its history, fell into disobedience and open rebellion against God, its creator. The tragic consequences of the fall affect each one of us born into the world to this very day! It affects you, reader!
Have you ever asked yourself why the world is in such a mess? Look around you. What do you see? Wars, famine, greed, selfishness, crime, violence, hatred, etc. This is the human race as it really is! What a pathetic history fallen humanity has! The solemn fact is that everyone is born a member of this sinful race. In God’s sight we are all guilty! Reader, this is the first thing you must grasp. We have all gone our own way. This is sin, and God hates sin. The Bible tells us that God is holy and will one day judge this world. Each one will give an account before God. This is the second thing you must grasp: the reality of coming judgement. What can we say? We are guilty! God knows the history of each one of us. Sin is the cause of all the trouble in the world. It is in all of us.
The true church is a people saved by Jesus Christ
The Bible tells us that God sent the Lord Jesus Christ into the world. He came on a mission, and that mission was to save. The Bible tells us “He shall save his people from their sins”. He was completely without sin and walked perfectly before God.
He died on the cross for sins that were not his own. He came to die! He laid down his life as part of a mission. He offered himself as a spotless sacrifice. He died as a substitute.
Jesus said “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed”. The Bible tells us that he “loved the church and gave himself for it”. God raised Jesus from the dead as proof that he accepted the sacrifice Jesus made. God has declared Jesus to be the only saviour of sinners. And the Bible declares the church to be Christ’s purchased possession.
The true church is a people united to Christ
It is a people who have been made to feel their sinful condition before a holy God. They have come to a place of complete dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ. They are a forgiven people – a people saved from the penalty of sin. They are eternally united to Jesus Christ who is the head of the church – a privileged people indeed!
Reader, be warned!
Those without Christ will be eternally lost! The human race has no reason to feel proud. We should all feel ashamed of ourselves. Reader, do you feel your sins? Do you realise you cannot save yourself? To such, Jesus spoke these words: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light”.
Reader, those who come to Jesus in repentance and faith shall be safe for time and eternity.
Cracking the code: Bible
FICTION:
The Bible did not arrive by fax from heaven… The Bible is a product of man my dear. Not of God. The Bible did not fall magically from the clouds. Man created it as a historical record of tumultuous times, and it has evolved through countless translations, additions and revisions. History has never had a definitive version of the book.
The Da Vinci Code, p231
FACT:
The first thing to say about this is that nobody claims that the Bible fell magically from the heavens. The Bible itself announces on page after page that is was written by men. But that does not mean that is has not come from God in a way which The Times newspaper or Shakespeare’s plays have not come from God. Teabing is committing a basic fallacy, the fallacy that is known as reductionism: because men wrote the Bible, it cannot have come from God. Why not? The fallacy can be simply illustrated in the following way. In the early twentieth century, physicists were puzzled about the nature of light. Some experiments appeared to suggest that light consisted of a series of particles, a bit like a stream of bullets. Other experiments suggested that light was a wave motion. According to the classical understanding of physics, it had to be one way or the other. Eventually physicists realised that their whole understanding of the nature of reality needed to be expanded and they began to speak of the wave/particle duality. Similarly, the Bible's own account of itself is that God ‘superintended’ the writers of the Bible, so that although they were fully involved in what they wrote, exercising free agency and expressing their own personalities, God so superintended them that what they wrote was exactly what He wanted them to write. Thus, it is appropriate to call the Bible, ‘God’s Word’.
As for the claim that it has ‘evolved through countless translations, additions and revisions’, I make the following comments. First, unless everyone becomes extremely competent in Hebrew and Greek, the Bible will remain a closed book unless we have it in translation. All a translation does is to communicate the message of the original belief that the Bible is God’s Word is that it is God’s Word ‘as originally given’. If I own a print works and print ten thousand copies of a modern English translation of the Bible and through some oversight miss the word ‘not’ in one of the Ten Commandments, I have at that point and at that point alone, produced a copy that it is not faithful. A comparison of my ten thousand copies with the earlier addition will soon point up ‘the error’. But the error is no way the error of the original biblical writers but is simply a printer’s error. It in no way impugns the veracity of the original. Indeed, the error will soon be spotted when the next batch of Bibles is printed, the word ‘not’ will be inserted and the ‘error’ removed. Such an addition and revision is to a copy which was flawed at that point. Teabing’s throwaway remark displays almost total ignorance of what textual criticism and translation are all about.
The contents of this tract are reprinted from The Da Vinci Code on trial by Stephen Clark with permission of Bryntirion Press.
The Bible did not arrive by fax from heaven… The Bible is a product of man my dear. Not of God. The Bible did not fall magically from the clouds. Man created it as a historical record of tumultuous times, and it has evolved through countless translations, additions and revisions. History has never had a definitive version of the book.
The Da Vinci Code, p231
FACT:
The first thing to say about this is that nobody claims that the Bible fell magically from the heavens. The Bible itself announces on page after page that is was written by men. But that does not mean that is has not come from God in a way which The Times newspaper or Shakespeare’s plays have not come from God. Teabing is committing a basic fallacy, the fallacy that is known as reductionism: because men wrote the Bible, it cannot have come from God. Why not? The fallacy can be simply illustrated in the following way. In the early twentieth century, physicists were puzzled about the nature of light. Some experiments appeared to suggest that light consisted of a series of particles, a bit like a stream of bullets. Other experiments suggested that light was a wave motion. According to the classical understanding of physics, it had to be one way or the other. Eventually physicists realised that their whole understanding of the nature of reality needed to be expanded and they began to speak of the wave/particle duality. Similarly, the Bible's own account of itself is that God ‘superintended’ the writers of the Bible, so that although they were fully involved in what they wrote, exercising free agency and expressing their own personalities, God so superintended them that what they wrote was exactly what He wanted them to write. Thus, it is appropriate to call the Bible, ‘God’s Word’.
As for the claim that it has ‘evolved through countless translations, additions and revisions’, I make the following comments. First, unless everyone becomes extremely competent in Hebrew and Greek, the Bible will remain a closed book unless we have it in translation. All a translation does is to communicate the message of the original belief that the Bible is God’s Word is that it is God’s Word ‘as originally given’. If I own a print works and print ten thousand copies of a modern English translation of the Bible and through some oversight miss the word ‘not’ in one of the Ten Commandments, I have at that point and at that point alone, produced a copy that it is not faithful. A comparison of my ten thousand copies with the earlier addition will soon point up ‘the error’. But the error is no way the error of the original biblical writers but is simply a printer’s error. It in no way impugns the veracity of the original. Indeed, the error will soon be spotted when the next batch of Bibles is printed, the word ‘not’ will be inserted and the ‘error’ removed. Such an addition and revision is to a copy which was flawed at that point. Teabing’s throwaway remark displays almost total ignorance of what textual criticism and translation are all about.
The contents of this tract are reprinted from The Da Vinci Code on trial by Stephen Clark with permission of Bryntirion Press.
Cracking the code: Faith
FICTION:
Whatever kernel of truth may be preserved by the four Gospels, no twenty-first century person can seriously be expected to believe a book that speaks of a conception by a virgin and resurrection from the dead. Such things just do not happen. Therefore, at the very least, the four Gospels must be presenting an embellished account of the life of Jesus. The Da Vinci Code on Trial p62
FACT:
The best way to deal with this objection is to quote from a letter published in The Times newspaper on 13 July 1984. The letter was signed by fifteen distinguished scientists: all were university professors in some science subject, and six were Fellows of the Royal Society, a society which only admits as fellows those who have distinguished themselves by contributions to science. The letter reads as follows:
In view of the recent discussions about the views of the Bishops on miracles we wish to make the following comments. It is not logically valid to use science as an argument against miracles. To believe that miracles cannot happen is as much an act of faith as to believe that they can happen. We gladly accept the Virgin Birth, the Gospel miracles, and the Resurrection of Christ as historical events. We know that we are representatives of many other scientists who are also Christians standing in the historical tradition of the churches.
Miracles are unprecedented events. Whatever the current fashions in philosophy or the revelations of opinion polls may suggest it is important to affirm that science (based as it is upon the observation of precedents) can have nothing to say on the subject. Its laws are only generalisations of our experience. Faith rests on other grounds.
The Da Vinci Code ends with rationally minded Robert Langdon falling to his knees in reverence, thinking he is near the bones of a woman who died two thousand years ago. Our journey has brought us to the feet of one who, two thousand years ago, rose triumphantly from the dead. He is the most important person of all. It is not what Dan Brown thinks of Him that matters but what He thinks of The Da Vinci Code’s author. It is not whether Dan Brown has a great rating with The New York Times that matters but what kind of credit he has before Jesus Christ. Dan Brown? The same is true for you and me. At the end of the day – at the end of the day, the little days of our lives – the only thing that will matter to us is what does Jesus Christ think of me? The answer to that question will turn on what you think of Him and do with Him now. He is the true God, the living Lord of history, and the only Saviour for people like you and me. Confess to Him that you have not lived as you should, that you are sorry for where you have gone wrong. Trust Him to deliver you from guilt, to pardo you, and to make you new. Yield your life up to Him as your Lord and Saviour and all will be well. The most important question you will ever answer is that which Jesus posed one day to His disciples: Who do you say that I am? And having answered that question, you will be faced with the question Pontius Pilate put to the crowd: What shall I do with Jesus? The answers to these two questions are something you cannot afford to get wrong.
The Da Vinci Code on Trial, p85-86
The contents of this tract are reprinted from The Da Vinci Code on trial by Stephen Clark with permission of Bryntirion Press.
Whatever kernel of truth may be preserved by the four Gospels, no twenty-first century person can seriously be expected to believe a book that speaks of a conception by a virgin and resurrection from the dead. Such things just do not happen. Therefore, at the very least, the four Gospels must be presenting an embellished account of the life of Jesus. The Da Vinci Code on Trial p62
FACT:
The best way to deal with this objection is to quote from a letter published in The Times newspaper on 13 July 1984. The letter was signed by fifteen distinguished scientists: all were university professors in some science subject, and six were Fellows of the Royal Society, a society which only admits as fellows those who have distinguished themselves by contributions to science. The letter reads as follows:
In view of the recent discussions about the views of the Bishops on miracles we wish to make the following comments. It is not logically valid to use science as an argument against miracles. To believe that miracles cannot happen is as much an act of faith as to believe that they can happen. We gladly accept the Virgin Birth, the Gospel miracles, and the Resurrection of Christ as historical events. We know that we are representatives of many other scientists who are also Christians standing in the historical tradition of the churches.
Miracles are unprecedented events. Whatever the current fashions in philosophy or the revelations of opinion polls may suggest it is important to affirm that science (based as it is upon the observation of precedents) can have nothing to say on the subject. Its laws are only generalisations of our experience. Faith rests on other grounds.
The Da Vinci Code ends with rationally minded Robert Langdon falling to his knees in reverence, thinking he is near the bones of a woman who died two thousand years ago. Our journey has brought us to the feet of one who, two thousand years ago, rose triumphantly from the dead. He is the most important person of all. It is not what Dan Brown thinks of Him that matters but what He thinks of The Da Vinci Code’s author. It is not whether Dan Brown has a great rating with The New York Times that matters but what kind of credit he has before Jesus Christ. Dan Brown? The same is true for you and me. At the end of the day – at the end of the day, the little days of our lives – the only thing that will matter to us is what does Jesus Christ think of me? The answer to that question will turn on what you think of Him and do with Him now. He is the true God, the living Lord of history, and the only Saviour for people like you and me. Confess to Him that you have not lived as you should, that you are sorry for where you have gone wrong. Trust Him to deliver you from guilt, to pardo you, and to make you new. Yield your life up to Him as your Lord and Saviour and all will be well. The most important question you will ever answer is that which Jesus posed one day to His disciples: Who do you say that I am? And having answered that question, you will be faced with the question Pontius Pilate put to the crowd: What shall I do with Jesus? The answers to these two questions are something you cannot afford to get wrong.
The Da Vinci Code on Trial, p85-86
The contents of this tract are reprinted from The Da Vinci Code on trial by Stephen Clark with permission of Bryntirion Press.
Cracking the code: Jesus
FICTION:
Jesus was viewed by His followers as a mortal prophet… a great and powerful man, but a man nonetheless. The Da Vinci Code, p.233
FACT:
Paul’s First Letter to the Thessalonians is possibly the earliest New Testament letter to have been written. It may confidently be dated to about AD51. This is roughly twenty years after the death of Jesus. The opening ‘greeting’ of the letter refers to Jesus as ‘the Lord Jesus Christ’. Three things are significant about this. First, in the ancient world this part of a letter was fairly formal and followed certain conventions. In other words, this would not be the part of a letter in which to ‘grind one’s axe’ or to make controversial statements. Secondly, the description or ‘title’ of Jesus is all-important. ‘Christ’ is the Greek word for ‘Messiah’. ‘Lord’ is also a very important word. While it is true that the Greek word which it translates, kurios, could sometimes have the sense of ‘sir’, it is also the word which is used to translate one of the names of God in the Old Testament. This is the name which schoolchildren learn as ‘Yahweh’ and which is also known as ‘Jehovah’. For a number of reasons it must bear this latter meaning in the greeting which Paul makes. In other words, he refers to Jesus as the Messiah and as Jehovah. It is nothing less than calling Jesus God. The third significant thing about the greeting is the fact that Paul wishes grace and peace to his readers ‘from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ’. For any Jew (which Paul was) to place someone on the same level as God would have been regarded as blasphemy and idolatry, unless that person was God. What all this means is that Paul regarded Jesus as God and yet, in some way, distinct from ‘God our Father’. Already we see part of the outline of what is known as the Trinity.
Another very early document is Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. This can reasonably be dated to around AD 55-57. This was written, therefore, about twenty-five years after the death of Jesus. This letter has a similar greeting to 1 Thessalonians, is full of references to the death of Jesus by crucifixion for our sins, and to His resurrection. While Paul is quite clear that Jesus was a real man, he is just as emphatic that He is more than a man: thus he calls Him ‘the Lord of glory’. This is one of the most elevated titles given to Jesus in the entire New Testament: it unmistakably identifies Him with the Lord God of the Old Testament. Later in the letter, Paul adapts what is known in Judaism as ‘the Shema’ in such a way as to identify Jesus with God. Another point to observe in this letter is the fact that in chapter 12 verses 4-6 there is a clear reference to what would come to be known as the doctrine of the Trinity. All this only twenty-five years after the death of the Trinity. Furthermore, in chapter 15 verses 3-8 Paul refers to the facts of the gospel or ‘good news’ as something which had been handed down, thereby intimating that this was already well known.
The Da Vinci Code on Trial, p86-88
The contents of this tract are reprinted from The Da Vinci Code on trial by Stephen Clark with permission of Bryntirion Press
Jesus was viewed by His followers as a mortal prophet… a great and powerful man, but a man nonetheless. The Da Vinci Code, p.233
FACT:
Paul’s First Letter to the Thessalonians is possibly the earliest New Testament letter to have been written. It may confidently be dated to about AD51. This is roughly twenty years after the death of Jesus. The opening ‘greeting’ of the letter refers to Jesus as ‘the Lord Jesus Christ’. Three things are significant about this. First, in the ancient world this part of a letter was fairly formal and followed certain conventions. In other words, this would not be the part of a letter in which to ‘grind one’s axe’ or to make controversial statements. Secondly, the description or ‘title’ of Jesus is all-important. ‘Christ’ is the Greek word for ‘Messiah’. ‘Lord’ is also a very important word. While it is true that the Greek word which it translates, kurios, could sometimes have the sense of ‘sir’, it is also the word which is used to translate one of the names of God in the Old Testament. This is the name which schoolchildren learn as ‘Yahweh’ and which is also known as ‘Jehovah’. For a number of reasons it must bear this latter meaning in the greeting which Paul makes. In other words, he refers to Jesus as the Messiah and as Jehovah. It is nothing less than calling Jesus God. The third significant thing about the greeting is the fact that Paul wishes grace and peace to his readers ‘from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ’. For any Jew (which Paul was) to place someone on the same level as God would have been regarded as blasphemy and idolatry, unless that person was God. What all this means is that Paul regarded Jesus as God and yet, in some way, distinct from ‘God our Father’. Already we see part of the outline of what is known as the Trinity.
Another very early document is Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. This can reasonably be dated to around AD 55-57. This was written, therefore, about twenty-five years after the death of Jesus. This letter has a similar greeting to 1 Thessalonians, is full of references to the death of Jesus by crucifixion for our sins, and to His resurrection. While Paul is quite clear that Jesus was a real man, he is just as emphatic that He is more than a man: thus he calls Him ‘the Lord of glory’. This is one of the most elevated titles given to Jesus in the entire New Testament: it unmistakably identifies Him with the Lord God of the Old Testament. Later in the letter, Paul adapts what is known in Judaism as ‘the Shema’ in such a way as to identify Jesus with God. Another point to observe in this letter is the fact that in chapter 12 verses 4-6 there is a clear reference to what would come to be known as the doctrine of the Trinity. All this only twenty-five years after the death of the Trinity. Furthermore, in chapter 15 verses 3-8 Paul refers to the facts of the gospel or ‘good news’ as something which had been handed down, thereby intimating that this was already well known.
The Da Vinci Code on Trial, p86-88
The contents of this tract are reprinted from The Da Vinci Code on trial by Stephen Clark with permission of Bryntirion Press
Crucify Him!
They would not have Jesus at any price! It made no difference that he had committed no crime, that Pilate could find no fault in him, that he was innocent. They didn’t want him, so – they crucified him.
They meant to carry on as though he had never lived, disregarding his teachings, warnings and commands. They had their own form of religion, and Jesus was no part of it. They had their traditions and beliefs – but no room for the Lord Jesus. Away with him, they cried. Crucify him!
But you cannot ‘put away’ the Lord Jesus Christ as easily as that – he is God! Hanging him on a cross did not finish him.
Actually, he was on the cross only because he allowed himself to be put there. He said, I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again (John 10:17-18). God used men’s rejection of his Son for their own good. They killed him because they rejected him – but he died willingly in their place to atone for their sin.
Sin, which is nothing more than living a life of self-pleasing in disregard of God, is punishable by him with eternal death. As all have sinned (Romans 3:23), all would have to die as a consequence of their sin if Jesus had not allowed himself to be killed by men. But, by dying for them, he made a way of escape from sin’s eternal penalty. He died as a substitute. He bore the penalty due to others by dying in their stead.
He died for all who would believe in him. If you will believe in him then you will not have to bear the penalty for your sin, for it has already been paid by Jesus. But if you stubbornly refuse the salvation Jesus offers, there is no alternative – you must bear the penalty of your own sin. How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation (Hebrews 2:3)?
You can say ‘No’ to Christ, refuse to repent and go on living as though he had never died. But if you do, you will be like those who 2000 years ago cried, Away with this man. Crucify him (Luke 23:18,21).
What will you do? You can repent and confess your sin, turning to God and asking him for forgiveness. Or you can go on as you have been doing, treading the slippery pathway of sin towards a Christless grave; living on without Christ and facing the judgement of a sin-hating God alone, without hope of forgiveness.
If you follow the latter course, either by deliberate rejection of his love or by just doing nothing about it, then Christ’s death will be of no good whatsoever to you. You will still be unsaved!
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved (Acts 16:31).
They meant to carry on as though he had never lived, disregarding his teachings, warnings and commands. They had their own form of religion, and Jesus was no part of it. They had their traditions and beliefs – but no room for the Lord Jesus. Away with him, they cried. Crucify him!
But you cannot ‘put away’ the Lord Jesus Christ as easily as that – he is God! Hanging him on a cross did not finish him.
Actually, he was on the cross only because he allowed himself to be put there. He said, I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again (John 10:17-18). God used men’s rejection of his Son for their own good. They killed him because they rejected him – but he died willingly in their place to atone for their sin.
Sin, which is nothing more than living a life of self-pleasing in disregard of God, is punishable by him with eternal death. As all have sinned (Romans 3:23), all would have to die as a consequence of their sin if Jesus had not allowed himself to be killed by men. But, by dying for them, he made a way of escape from sin’s eternal penalty. He died as a substitute. He bore the penalty due to others by dying in their stead.
He died for all who would believe in him. If you will believe in him then you will not have to bear the penalty for your sin, for it has already been paid by Jesus. But if you stubbornly refuse the salvation Jesus offers, there is no alternative – you must bear the penalty of your own sin. How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation (Hebrews 2:3)?
You can say ‘No’ to Christ, refuse to repent and go on living as though he had never died. But if you do, you will be like those who 2000 years ago cried, Away with this man. Crucify him (Luke 23:18,21).
What will you do? You can repent and confess your sin, turning to God and asking him for forgiveness. Or you can go on as you have been doing, treading the slippery pathway of sin towards a Christless grave; living on without Christ and facing the judgement of a sin-hating God alone, without hope of forgiveness.
If you follow the latter course, either by deliberate rejection of his love or by just doing nothing about it, then Christ’s death will be of no good whatsoever to you. You will still be unsaved!
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved (Acts 16:31).
Do good people go to heaven?
Yes, they certainly would go to heaven... if they were good enough! People often say, "If I do my best and treat everyone fairly I would hope to go to heaven." They usually confess that they have not always done their best at times and neither have they always treated everyone fairly. Anyway, is our best good enough for God? The schoolboy's best may not be good enough to pass his exam.
If a person never sinned, if people were not sinners, if they were as God as God - yes, they would go to His heaven. The sad fact is that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
A religious leader in the Bible once asked Jesus Christ, "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" Jesus said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind... And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:36-39). Who has fully kept this first and great commandment, and who has ever kept the second?
No one has ever attained to the keeping of these, God's holy laws; all the world is guilty before God (Romans 3:19,20). All stand condemned before a holy God who must judge sin.
What man needs therefore is a Saviour from sin, for none is good enough to gain heaven. For this reason, "God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law" (Galatians 4:4). It is impossible for any to get to heaven except that their sins be forgiven.
The Lord Jesus took the punishment of His people's sins upon Himself: "He died that we might be forgiven, He died to make us good." Without Him there is no heaven for sinners. Without Him there is no forgiveness.
The prophet Isaiah wrote: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isaiah 53:6). "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21).
What then must a person do to get to heaven? Turn to Jesus Christ who, having been raised from the dead, ever lives to make intercession for those who come to God through him. He is able to save to the uttermost all those who come to Him.
These words are written "so that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31).
If a person never sinned, if people were not sinners, if they were as God as God - yes, they would go to His heaven. The sad fact is that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
A religious leader in the Bible once asked Jesus Christ, "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" Jesus said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind... And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:36-39). Who has fully kept this first and great commandment, and who has ever kept the second?
No one has ever attained to the keeping of these, God's holy laws; all the world is guilty before God (Romans 3:19,20). All stand condemned before a holy God who must judge sin.
What man needs therefore is a Saviour from sin, for none is good enough to gain heaven. For this reason, "God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law" (Galatians 4:4). It is impossible for any to get to heaven except that their sins be forgiven.
The Lord Jesus took the punishment of His people's sins upon Himself: "He died that we might be forgiven, He died to make us good." Without Him there is no heaven for sinners. Without Him there is no forgiveness.
The prophet Isaiah wrote: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isaiah 53:6). "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21).
What then must a person do to get to heaven? Turn to Jesus Christ who, having been raised from the dead, ever lives to make intercession for those who come to God through him. He is able to save to the uttermost all those who come to Him.
These words are written "so that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31).
Facing the Facts
This booklet is about facts. What is contained within these pages is no fairytale. Many people today don't like being told the truth - the facts. Their minds are already made up, and nothing and no one can shift them. It's like talking to a brick wall. Please don't read this booklet like that. Consider these things. They are important - more than you would know. Please have an open mind as you read this booklet. It was probably given to you by a Christian who wants you to know God in the same personal way that they do. So let's face some facts together.
Facing the Facts is about You
"What about me?" You are you. There's no one else like you. You are special. You are unique. You may wish you were someone else, with better looks, with more personality, oh yes, and with more money. But take a look in the mirror - you are you. Look at your fingers. At the tips, your fingerprints set you apart. Then again, no one thinks your thoughts but you. Have you ever thought about the purpose of your life? Who am I? Why am I here? Don't believe you're just a "naked ape", or a computer with flesh around it. You're much more than evolved slime. God has made you, and you have dignity. You have worth. And yet, be honest, isn't there a dissatisfaction, deep within? A restlessness? A yearning which you cannot explain? This is spiritual hunger - which men try to satisfy with money or possessions or drink or sex or pleasures. They try - but they can't. The Bible puts it this way: "He (that is, God) has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end" (Ecclesiastes 3:11). That describes you.
Facing the Facts about The World
"What about the world?" You and I are in it, but most of us have never taken a real look at it. We've taken what we find in the world for granted. But take a telescope out on a clear night and look, or get out of town and take a walk in the woods or by the sea and look, or through a microscope and see the complexity of a world beyond our sight. There is order. There are natural laws which are kept. And think of the seasons of the year. We have taken all this for granted. Ah yes, there is pollution; oil polluted beaches; forests all but destroyed by acid rain; nuclear waste dumped in the sea. What God has made - man seeks to unmake. Or spoil. Or exploit. We haven't been very good at keeping what God has given have we? The Bible says "God saw all that He had made and it was very good" (Genesis 1:31). Why isn't it good now? Read on! So much screams to us that something is wrong. Disease! Disasters! Cruelty! Wars! Overcrowded prisons! Unhappiness in the home! Fear on the street! These are facts.
Facing the Facts about Death
"What about death?" You and I must die. That may be a rather morbid statement but it is true. This is a subject too often ignored today, but death won't go away. Graveyards and crematoria witness to that. Have you ever heard of an undertaker becoming redundant? Do you remember going to a funeral and wishing it was all over so that you could forget it? There's no problem getting people to go to a wedding - but a funeral? Some never go, but they'll go to their own. And so will you! You may try and push it from your mind, but you must face this fact now! Death may be a "taboo" subject which people avoid talking about, or thinking about. But it is a fact! To die is not to be snuffed out like a candle. To die brings the real you before the true and living God. The Bible says "...man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgement." (Hebrews 9:27).
Facing the Facts about Sin
"What, sin?" Yes, sin. It's an old fashioned word. It describes man's rebellion against God. It describes the breaking of God's holy law as recorded in the Bible. We are all naturally ungodly. No exceptions, except Jesus Christ. You don't have to teach selfishness to children - it is there! Your inner restlessness, the world's sorrow, and the fact of death all witness to the fact of sin. Your temper, and pride, and self-seeking condemn you before God. Sin separates us from God. It's a disease of the spirit. It brings God's anger upon us. Sin must be taken away if we are to come to know God. The Bible says "All have sinned and come short of God's glory" (Romans 3:23). All that includes you - and me.
Facing the Facts about the Bible
"What about the Bible?" It's God Word to man. It alone describes the beginning of sin, mankind's problems, and the remedy. Any number of people pour scorn on the Bible. But they have seldom read it. They will say "It's full of errors!" (which it isn't). But they can't tell you of one. Only in this book does God tell you how to come to know Him personally. If you had a deadly disease you would want to be told the truth wouldn't you? You wouldn't want the doctor to make any mistake telling you what is wrong would you? God tells us the truth - as it really is! In the Bible he tells you what is wrong. You and I had better read it then and hear it explained to us. How? Read on! The Bible says "Every word of God is flawless. He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him" (Proverbs 30:5).
Facing the Facts about Jesus Christ
"What about him?" You have heard about him, haven't you? Vaguely? His name has become a swear word today. People seem to dislike him. Why? It's because he speaks the truth, and it hurts. Jesus called himself, "The light of the world" (John 8:12). He exposes us. That's why people hate him. "Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed" (John 3:20). Jesus came from heaven, and lived a perfect life. He was truly man but more than man. He is also truly God. Yet he died as if he were a criminal on the cross. Why? - not for his own wrongs - he did none. The Bible tells us he willingly died in the place of others who deserved to die. Jesus was a substitute. The price of sin has been paid for all who came to him. God raised Jesus from the dead - he's alive now! He - and he alone - satisfies inward spiritual hunger. He said "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry and he who believes in me will never be thirsty" (John 6:35). But you must come to him. You must believe in him. He alone is the way to God. He said "No one comes to the Father but by me" (John 14:6).
Facing the Facts about The Church
"What about the church?" I know what you're thinking. "Weddings and funerals. Dark, damp and smelly buildings - crumbling masonry, hard seats - always asking for money." But that isn't the church. The church isn't a building, or an organisation. It's people. Those for whom Jesus Christ died - the church. They meet in local gatherings; true churches where Jesus Christ is present by the Holy Spirit - where the Bible is preached, obeyed and practised. Don't be put off by what you think a church is without having been to one of God's true churches. Have you been to one of those? Alas, they are few and far between. Many so called "churches" have departed from them. There are true churches where God is honoured, where the Bible is preached. Seek one out - and go there regularly. Go with the friend who gave you this booklet. The Bible says of the church "God's household which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth" (1 Timothy 3:15).
Facing the Facts about Salvation
"What's Salvation?" It's what we have been talking about. Salvation is God's way of forgiveness - and you need to be forgiven. You need to have a new heart. A new beginning. A new life with God at the centre in control of your life by the Holy Spirit. A new prospect - looking forward to being with Jesus forever in heaven. That's a place of perfection where there is no sin to spoil. Where there's no fear or sorrow or suffering. This is the message of the Bible from beginning to end - God saves sinners. Salvation (it means "rescuing") is essential. It is absolutely necessary for you. It is difficult to be saved, so be warned! It's not common, either. Many people are distracted today by the rat-race of life. Some gaze at a TV set hour after hour. If it's not TV programmes then it's video. If not video then it's computer games. Happiness does not come through any of these. Happiness comes through your sin being forgiven - through your sin being taken away. The Bible says "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life. And only a few find it" (Matthew 7:13,14). Will you find it?
You must find it by earnestly seeking God and calling upon him! You must be saved - without delay. You must come to God through the Lord Jesus Christ. You must throw yourself upon God's mercy or your sins will drag you to hell. Oh yes there's such a place. Jesus spoke about it often. It's a place of endless punishment and sorrow. And that's where you'll be if you reject Jesus Christ the only one who can save you from it. Where will you be a hundred years from now? In heaven with Christ, or in hell without him? He tells you to turn to him and trust him. There are no magic words to repeat. He wants from you a true cry from the heart: "God have mercy on me a sinner" (Luke 18:13). Here is a promise from the Bible: "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God for he will freely pardon" (Isaiah 55:6). Read this booklet again. Ask God to show you your true sinful self. Then call upon him to save you and make you a Christian.
Facing the Facts is about You
"What about me?" You are you. There's no one else like you. You are special. You are unique. You may wish you were someone else, with better looks, with more personality, oh yes, and with more money. But take a look in the mirror - you are you. Look at your fingers. At the tips, your fingerprints set you apart. Then again, no one thinks your thoughts but you. Have you ever thought about the purpose of your life? Who am I? Why am I here? Don't believe you're just a "naked ape", or a computer with flesh around it. You're much more than evolved slime. God has made you, and you have dignity. You have worth. And yet, be honest, isn't there a dissatisfaction, deep within? A restlessness? A yearning which you cannot explain? This is spiritual hunger - which men try to satisfy with money or possessions or drink or sex or pleasures. They try - but they can't. The Bible puts it this way: "He (that is, God) has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end" (Ecclesiastes 3:11). That describes you.
Facing the Facts about The World
"What about the world?" You and I are in it, but most of us have never taken a real look at it. We've taken what we find in the world for granted. But take a telescope out on a clear night and look, or get out of town and take a walk in the woods or by the sea and look, or through a microscope and see the complexity of a world beyond our sight. There is order. There are natural laws which are kept. And think of the seasons of the year. We have taken all this for granted. Ah yes, there is pollution; oil polluted beaches; forests all but destroyed by acid rain; nuclear waste dumped in the sea. What God has made - man seeks to unmake. Or spoil. Or exploit. We haven't been very good at keeping what God has given have we? The Bible says "God saw all that He had made and it was very good" (Genesis 1:31). Why isn't it good now? Read on! So much screams to us that something is wrong. Disease! Disasters! Cruelty! Wars! Overcrowded prisons! Unhappiness in the home! Fear on the street! These are facts.
Facing the Facts about Death
"What about death?" You and I must die. That may be a rather morbid statement but it is true. This is a subject too often ignored today, but death won't go away. Graveyards and crematoria witness to that. Have you ever heard of an undertaker becoming redundant? Do you remember going to a funeral and wishing it was all over so that you could forget it? There's no problem getting people to go to a wedding - but a funeral? Some never go, but they'll go to their own. And so will you! You may try and push it from your mind, but you must face this fact now! Death may be a "taboo" subject which people avoid talking about, or thinking about. But it is a fact! To die is not to be snuffed out like a candle. To die brings the real you before the true and living God. The Bible says "...man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgement." (Hebrews 9:27).
Facing the Facts about Sin
"What, sin?" Yes, sin. It's an old fashioned word. It describes man's rebellion against God. It describes the breaking of God's holy law as recorded in the Bible. We are all naturally ungodly. No exceptions, except Jesus Christ. You don't have to teach selfishness to children - it is there! Your inner restlessness, the world's sorrow, and the fact of death all witness to the fact of sin. Your temper, and pride, and self-seeking condemn you before God. Sin separates us from God. It's a disease of the spirit. It brings God's anger upon us. Sin must be taken away if we are to come to know God. The Bible says "All have sinned and come short of God's glory" (Romans 3:23). All that includes you - and me.
Facing the Facts about the Bible
"What about the Bible?" It's God Word to man. It alone describes the beginning of sin, mankind's problems, and the remedy. Any number of people pour scorn on the Bible. But they have seldom read it. They will say "It's full of errors!" (which it isn't). But they can't tell you of one. Only in this book does God tell you how to come to know Him personally. If you had a deadly disease you would want to be told the truth wouldn't you? You wouldn't want the doctor to make any mistake telling you what is wrong would you? God tells us the truth - as it really is! In the Bible he tells you what is wrong. You and I had better read it then and hear it explained to us. How? Read on! The Bible says "Every word of God is flawless. He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him" (Proverbs 30:5).
Facing the Facts about Jesus Christ
"What about him?" You have heard about him, haven't you? Vaguely? His name has become a swear word today. People seem to dislike him. Why? It's because he speaks the truth, and it hurts. Jesus called himself, "The light of the world" (John 8:12). He exposes us. That's why people hate him. "Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed" (John 3:20). Jesus came from heaven, and lived a perfect life. He was truly man but more than man. He is also truly God. Yet he died as if he were a criminal on the cross. Why? - not for his own wrongs - he did none. The Bible tells us he willingly died in the place of others who deserved to die. Jesus was a substitute. The price of sin has been paid for all who came to him. God raised Jesus from the dead - he's alive now! He - and he alone - satisfies inward spiritual hunger. He said "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry and he who believes in me will never be thirsty" (John 6:35). But you must come to him. You must believe in him. He alone is the way to God. He said "No one comes to the Father but by me" (John 14:6).
Facing the Facts about The Church
"What about the church?" I know what you're thinking. "Weddings and funerals. Dark, damp and smelly buildings - crumbling masonry, hard seats - always asking for money." But that isn't the church. The church isn't a building, or an organisation. It's people. Those for whom Jesus Christ died - the church. They meet in local gatherings; true churches where Jesus Christ is present by the Holy Spirit - where the Bible is preached, obeyed and practised. Don't be put off by what you think a church is without having been to one of God's true churches. Have you been to one of those? Alas, they are few and far between. Many so called "churches" have departed from them. There are true churches where God is honoured, where the Bible is preached. Seek one out - and go there regularly. Go with the friend who gave you this booklet. The Bible says of the church "God's household which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth" (1 Timothy 3:15).
Facing the Facts about Salvation
"What's Salvation?" It's what we have been talking about. Salvation is God's way of forgiveness - and you need to be forgiven. You need to have a new heart. A new beginning. A new life with God at the centre in control of your life by the Holy Spirit. A new prospect - looking forward to being with Jesus forever in heaven. That's a place of perfection where there is no sin to spoil. Where there's no fear or sorrow or suffering. This is the message of the Bible from beginning to end - God saves sinners. Salvation (it means "rescuing") is essential. It is absolutely necessary for you. It is difficult to be saved, so be warned! It's not common, either. Many people are distracted today by the rat-race of life. Some gaze at a TV set hour after hour. If it's not TV programmes then it's video. If not video then it's computer games. Happiness does not come through any of these. Happiness comes through your sin being forgiven - through your sin being taken away. The Bible says "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life. And only a few find it" (Matthew 7:13,14). Will you find it?
You must find it by earnestly seeking God and calling upon him! You must be saved - without delay. You must come to God through the Lord Jesus Christ. You must throw yourself upon God's mercy or your sins will drag you to hell. Oh yes there's such a place. Jesus spoke about it often. It's a place of endless punishment and sorrow. And that's where you'll be if you reject Jesus Christ the only one who can save you from it. Where will you be a hundred years from now? In heaven with Christ, or in hell without him? He tells you to turn to him and trust him. There are no magic words to repeat. He wants from you a true cry from the heart: "God have mercy on me a sinner" (Luke 18:13). Here is a promise from the Bible: "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God for he will freely pardon" (Isaiah 55:6). Read this booklet again. Ask God to show you your true sinful self. Then call upon him to save you and make you a Christian.
Halloween
Halloween is here again. “Trick or treat. Give me something good to eat.” “Let’s dress up as witches or demons.”
Halloween falls on 31st October, on the eve of (day before) the fest of All Saints or All Hallows. People thought that the spirits of the dead and demons visited the earth at this time. They made bonfires on the hillsides and around these everyone danced to keep evil spirits away. When the ceremonies were over, the people returned home for a feast. They put out food for the witches and other frightening spirits.
Did you know that there are thousands of real witches in this country? They do not dress up in pointed hats and black cloaks, but they do have a real power and an evil power. They deliberately meet with Satan and get power to harm people.
We do not want to get involved in that. A Christian cannot be a witch or dress up as one, because God forbids it in the Bible (Leviticus 20:6). Christians should not celebrate Halloween because it has its roots in witchcraft. Witches are Satan’s servants and therefore enemies of God. Christians, who are God’s servants (Romans 6:22), can have nothing to do with playing at witches or being involved with frightening faces or other Halloween activities.
People like power that witchcraft offers which comes through the Evil one. The Bible reveals an all-powerful God who gives power to His people to live for Him and serve Him in the good interests of His Kingdom (Acts 1:8). Jesus Christ the Lord overcame Satan, conquered both death and hell and has been given all power in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Christ came to destroy the works of Satan and bring man back to God. “To all who received him (Jesus the Lord), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).
There is more than harmless fun behind the Halloween parties. Do we want the frightening powers of darkness, or the protective powers of the God of Light?
Seek the true God who sent His Son to suffer that we might be forgiven our sins.
Halloween falls on 31st October, on the eve of (day before) the fest of All Saints or All Hallows. People thought that the spirits of the dead and demons visited the earth at this time. They made bonfires on the hillsides and around these everyone danced to keep evil spirits away. When the ceremonies were over, the people returned home for a feast. They put out food for the witches and other frightening spirits.
Did you know that there are thousands of real witches in this country? They do not dress up in pointed hats and black cloaks, but they do have a real power and an evil power. They deliberately meet with Satan and get power to harm people.
We do not want to get involved in that. A Christian cannot be a witch or dress up as one, because God forbids it in the Bible (Leviticus 20:6). Christians should not celebrate Halloween because it has its roots in witchcraft. Witches are Satan’s servants and therefore enemies of God. Christians, who are God’s servants (Romans 6:22), can have nothing to do with playing at witches or being involved with frightening faces or other Halloween activities.
People like power that witchcraft offers which comes through the Evil one. The Bible reveals an all-powerful God who gives power to His people to live for Him and serve Him in the good interests of His Kingdom (Acts 1:8). Jesus Christ the Lord overcame Satan, conquered both death and hell and has been given all power in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Christ came to destroy the works of Satan and bring man back to God. “To all who received him (Jesus the Lord), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).
There is more than harmless fun behind the Halloween parties. Do we want the frightening powers of darkness, or the protective powers of the God of Light?
Seek the true God who sent His Son to suffer that we might be forgiven our sins.
Have you ever wanted a new life?
Have you ever felt that there was something important missing in your life? Something important but you didn’t know what? That may be the new life God wants you to have. A life of joy, peace and fulfilment.
A life… which you can know today. Carefully consider these Five Important Facts… And find out how you can give that new life and become a brand new person.
1. A loving God sent His Son Jesus into the world to bring you a new and abundant life
Jesus said, “If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink. He that believes in me… from within him shall flow rivers of living waters.” – John 7:37-38
He also said, concerning those He loves: “I came that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10
This new life brings you the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” – Galatians 5:22. It also gives POWER!
God’s Holy Spirit gives you the power to overcome…
Feelings of loneliness, stress, fear of people, and the future. – 1 John 4:18
And the power to break unbreakable habits like…
Selfishness, depression, uncontrolled anger, prejudice, sexual lust, overeating, overdrinking, drug abuse. – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
But why… are you so many people without this new life?
2. Because… people are self-centred, not God-centred.
This means that by nature you are spiritually dead and deceived. You “were dead in your trespasses and sins.” Ephesians 2:1
To be spiritually dead and deceived is to be centred on yourself and not on your Creator, and to believe A Big Lie.
People show this according to Romans 1:21-31 by being… unthankful to God, perverted, greedy, jealous, bitter, proud, mean, devious, foolish
Since man’s first sin, he has tried to be INDEPENDENT of God. Actually each human being is entirely DEPENDENT on God for breath, food, health, shelter, physical and mental abilities.
THE BIG LIFE: SELFISH INDEPENDENCE
3. Self-centred man is separated from a Holy God by three big barriers.
Bad record: “All have sinned…” – Romans 3:23
Bad heart: “From the heart of man come evil thought…” – Mark 7:21
Bad master: “Whoever commits sin is a slave…” – John 8:34
Consequences of sin as separation from God… “For the wages of sin is death,” –Romans 6:23
Now… 1. A dry, thirsty, unsatisfied life.
2. A guilty, accusing conscience (depression, fears, etc.).
3. An aging body that must shortly die.
To come… 1. Loss of all friendships and all earthy joys forever. – Matthew 8:12
2. Frightful pains of body and conscience forever. – Mark 9:48
3. Dreadful thirst of body and soul forever. – Luke 16:19-31
4. God’s Solution… No Barriers.
Perfect record: “Christ… is made our righteousness” – 1 Corinthians 1:30
New heart: “A new heart I will give you” – Ezekiel 36:25-26
Good master: “My yoke is easy.” – Matthew 11:28-30
“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from sin” – 1 John 1:7b
The benefit of Jesus’ death… Love’s biggest gift
“The free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.” – Romans 6:23
Jesus, the God-man, is the biggest gift of the Father’s love.
On the cross Jesus suffered all the torments of hell as a substitute for His people (John 3:16, 10:15). He was legally condemned by God as their representative, removing the barriers of a bad record, a bad heart and a bad master. The Father’s love does it all. Risen from the dead, Jesus now lives to give you a new record, a new heart, Himself as a new master – and the free gift of eternal life now!
You need to make sure… God says you either have NEW LIFE or you are a law-breaker, DEAD in your self-centredness. Are you personally alive or dead? If you are still dead, you need to know…
5. How to receive the Lord Jesus into your life:
1. Turn in sorrow from your sins: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that He may have mercy on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” – Isaiah 55:7
2. Trust in Christ Jesus alone: “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” – Acts 16:31
Repentance is… not our suffering of our good works to earn our salvation, but a turning from our sins to the living God through Jesus Christ.
Trust is the Lord Jesus is… accepting, receiving, and resting on Him alone as the Saviour from our sins.
Begin a NEW LIFE
Will you now surrender your life to Christ by turning from your self-centred way and trusting in Him alone?
Here is a guideline to help you confess your sins and come to know God through taking the Lord Jesus Christ as your own personal Saviour: “Heavenly Father, I am really a selfish person. I have wanted my own way – not yours. I have often been jealous, proud and rebellious. You are my Creator, but I have acted as though I was lord of all. I have not been thankful to you. I have not listened to your Word, the Bible, and have not loved your Son. But now I see that all my sin is against you. I now repent of this evil attitude. I turn from all my sins and trust that Jesus shed his precious blood to cleanse me from all my guilt. I now receive Him as my Saviour and the Lord of my life.”
I__________________turn from my sins and take Christ as my Lord and Saviour. By His help I promise to obey Him in every part of my life.
How Does This New Life Continue?
The same way it began – in faith and prayer.
1. Pray constantly… Prayer is talking to God. Keep doing it all the time. Include in it praise, thanksgiving, confession of sins, petitions for the salvation of others, and requests for help.
2. Read your Bible… Study it every day. It is the food for your new life and your sure guide. In it you meet Jesus and learn to claim His promises for your life.
3. Worship with others… Meet with a church where the Bible is taught and obeyed where Jesus Christ is Lord and Saviour.
4. Witness with others… Tell your friends what Christ has done for you – and wants to do for them. Be tactful and back up your words by improvements in manners and doing deeds of kindness.
This booklet has been designed to introduce you to Jesus Christ the author of eternal life. If you wish to know how you can further grow in your Christian life, please contact:
A life… which you can know today. Carefully consider these Five Important Facts… And find out how you can give that new life and become a brand new person.
1. A loving God sent His Son Jesus into the world to bring you a new and abundant life
Jesus said, “If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink. He that believes in me… from within him shall flow rivers of living waters.” – John 7:37-38
He also said, concerning those He loves: “I came that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10
This new life brings you the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” – Galatians 5:22. It also gives POWER!
God’s Holy Spirit gives you the power to overcome…
Feelings of loneliness, stress, fear of people, and the future. – 1 John 4:18
And the power to break unbreakable habits like…
Selfishness, depression, uncontrolled anger, prejudice, sexual lust, overeating, overdrinking, drug abuse. – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
But why… are you so many people without this new life?
2. Because… people are self-centred, not God-centred.
This means that by nature you are spiritually dead and deceived. You “were dead in your trespasses and sins.” Ephesians 2:1
To be spiritually dead and deceived is to be centred on yourself and not on your Creator, and to believe A Big Lie.
People show this according to Romans 1:21-31 by being… unthankful to God, perverted, greedy, jealous, bitter, proud, mean, devious, foolish
Since man’s first sin, he has tried to be INDEPENDENT of God. Actually each human being is entirely DEPENDENT on God for breath, food, health, shelter, physical and mental abilities.
THE BIG LIFE: SELFISH INDEPENDENCE
3. Self-centred man is separated from a Holy God by three big barriers.
Bad record: “All have sinned…” – Romans 3:23
Bad heart: “From the heart of man come evil thought…” – Mark 7:21
Bad master: “Whoever commits sin is a slave…” – John 8:34
Consequences of sin as separation from God… “For the wages of sin is death,” –Romans 6:23
Now… 1. A dry, thirsty, unsatisfied life.
2. A guilty, accusing conscience (depression, fears, etc.).
3. An aging body that must shortly die.
To come… 1. Loss of all friendships and all earthy joys forever. – Matthew 8:12
2. Frightful pains of body and conscience forever. – Mark 9:48
3. Dreadful thirst of body and soul forever. – Luke 16:19-31
4. God’s Solution… No Barriers.
Perfect record: “Christ… is made our righteousness” – 1 Corinthians 1:30
New heart: “A new heart I will give you” – Ezekiel 36:25-26
Good master: “My yoke is easy.” – Matthew 11:28-30
“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from sin” – 1 John 1:7b
The benefit of Jesus’ death… Love’s biggest gift
“The free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.” – Romans 6:23
Jesus, the God-man, is the biggest gift of the Father’s love.
On the cross Jesus suffered all the torments of hell as a substitute for His people (John 3:16, 10:15). He was legally condemned by God as their representative, removing the barriers of a bad record, a bad heart and a bad master. The Father’s love does it all. Risen from the dead, Jesus now lives to give you a new record, a new heart, Himself as a new master – and the free gift of eternal life now!
You need to make sure… God says you either have NEW LIFE or you are a law-breaker, DEAD in your self-centredness. Are you personally alive or dead? If you are still dead, you need to know…
5. How to receive the Lord Jesus into your life:
1. Turn in sorrow from your sins: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that He may have mercy on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” – Isaiah 55:7
2. Trust in Christ Jesus alone: “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” – Acts 16:31
Repentance is… not our suffering of our good works to earn our salvation, but a turning from our sins to the living God through Jesus Christ.
Trust is the Lord Jesus is… accepting, receiving, and resting on Him alone as the Saviour from our sins.
Begin a NEW LIFE
Will you now surrender your life to Christ by turning from your self-centred way and trusting in Him alone?
Here is a guideline to help you confess your sins and come to know God through taking the Lord Jesus Christ as your own personal Saviour: “Heavenly Father, I am really a selfish person. I have wanted my own way – not yours. I have often been jealous, proud and rebellious. You are my Creator, but I have acted as though I was lord of all. I have not been thankful to you. I have not listened to your Word, the Bible, and have not loved your Son. But now I see that all my sin is against you. I now repent of this evil attitude. I turn from all my sins and trust that Jesus shed his precious blood to cleanse me from all my guilt. I now receive Him as my Saviour and the Lord of my life.”
I__________________turn from my sins and take Christ as my Lord and Saviour. By His help I promise to obey Him in every part of my life.
How Does This New Life Continue?
The same way it began – in faith and prayer.
1. Pray constantly… Prayer is talking to God. Keep doing it all the time. Include in it praise, thanksgiving, confession of sins, petitions for the salvation of others, and requests for help.
2. Read your Bible… Study it every day. It is the food for your new life and your sure guide. In it you meet Jesus and learn to claim His promises for your life.
3. Worship with others… Meet with a church where the Bible is taught and obeyed where Jesus Christ is Lord and Saviour.
4. Witness with others… Tell your friends what Christ has done for you – and wants to do for them. Be tactful and back up your words by improvements in manners and doing deeds of kindness.
This booklet has been designed to introduce you to Jesus Christ the author of eternal life. If you wish to know how you can further grow in your Christian life, please contact:
Hope that lasts
I want to share with you my hope. Hope can be a very elusive thing. Just when we think our hopes will be met they are dashed. Without hope we end up in despair. But even in despair we can have a hope that there will be something to hope for again one day and even that can keep us going. Hope is in many was the foundation of our lives. Most hopes, however, are uncertain; like the hope your team will win. They may win often, but they also lose sometimes and hope is dashed. You may hope your latest romantic entanglement may be the one that lasts, but sadly, even after many years relationships can fall apart. My conviction is that the hope I have will never be dashed. I share this hope with many people. I see this hope in them through serious illness, through joys and sorrows, even in the face of death. I share this hope with people of history, like William Wilberforce, and with people of today you will never have heard of, across the whole world.
My hope is in Jesus. But before you put this down, thinking, “Here we go. I’m not interested in religion – not your one anyway!” I would like to ask you a question…
You are hoping for a better life, yes? But what you have placed your hope in is uncertain, if you are honest with yourself. However, you are willing to take a little trouble and difficulty in the hope that it will come through. Here’s the question (sorry to be blunt), “What hope do you have in the face of death?” Death is a great leveller. Everyone dies. Does what you hope for in life give you hope in the face of death? Or is death for you the failure and the end of hope? Would it not be wonderful to have a hope that takes the fear out of death, that lasts beyond death, that even death cannot frustrate? Jesus gives us that kind of hope.
Hope in Jesus
I find Jesus both beautifully attractive and incredibly challenging at the same time: his purity, his boldness, his straight talking, his miracles, and, most of all, his love and compassion. And it is in Jesus that I have put my hope. In the Bible in 1 Corinthians 15 the apostle Paul talks about the resurrection of Jesus. He says that Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep”, which means that Jesus’ resurrection is the guarantee that all people will be raised from the dead. For that reason we can have a hope that doesn’t just last for this life, but lasts into eternity. Paul (the writer of 1 Corinthians) writes of over 500 people who saw Jesus after he rose from the grave. His basic implication is, “If you don’t believe Jesus rose from the dead, go and ask some of them.” Of course we can’t now, but the point is that you could have then. Paul himself is perhaps the best witness of the resurrection. He was absolutely opposed to all things Christian, but then Jesus appeared to him and his life was completely turned around. Jesus gave him a new hope.
Hope of Glory
The hope I have in Jesus is one where pain will come to an end, where tears will be wiped away, where grief and sorrow will be unheard of and unremembered. It is hope of a time when my body won’t get aches and pains; where we won’t break our bones, and viruses will not harm us. It is hope of being with God, of enjoying only good things; where the glory of the summer sun is replaced by the glory of God himself. The Bible tell us that this is not an uncertain hope, like hoping for sunshine on your wedding day, but a hope that is 100% sure. It says that, “What you sow does not come to life unless it dies… So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body” (1 Corinthians 15:36,42-44).
Hope of Life
When Jesus is talking about eternal life he says this about resurrection (John 5:26-29), “For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to execute judgement, because he is the Son of Man. Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgement.”
Jesus tells us very plainly about the two possibilities for us in the resurrection.
I have tried to think about what would be going on in my mind if I knew I was going to die soon. I think my mind would be racing. I would remember so many good times and joys I have had. I would remember too so many things I wish I hadn’t done, and think about things I wish I had done. I know I would feel a sense of guilt, as well as perhaps a sense of achievement in some ways. But without my hope in Jesus I would wonder this: “Have I been good enough for the resurrection of life?” What amazes me most about Jesus I that my hope of life is not dependent on my effort or ability but on what Jesus has done for me. Jesus was asked once by a crowd, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” (John 6:28). Jesus answered, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” This is why my hope in Jesus is certain – because it isn’t based on my success but in my Saviour. The apostle Peter says that, “[Jesus] suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God” (1 Peter 3:18). Because he was successful I can be sure of eternal life. Jesus himself tells us he came not for those who think themselves righteous – who think they have a hope because of what they have done – but for sinners – those who know they don’t have a hope by themselves, and therefore they put their hope in him (Mark 2:17).
Hope of Salvation
Jesus also tells a short story that explains how to have real hope of joy in the presence of God:
“Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 18:10-14).
The obvious implication of what Jesus says is this: if we consider ourselves good and point the finger at others, then we will be humbled not saved. But if we own up to our faults before God, and seek his mercy and grace, then God will exalt us, rescue us from our sin and lift us joyfully to heaven.
Hope of Joy
The end of Psalm 16 sums up my hope: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures for evermore.” The path of life is faith in Jesus Christ. He is my hope. He came to bring hope to the world in the face of brokenness, pain and death. My prayer is that you will know him as your hope too – whatever your situation. Only he can bring you a hope that is certain, that takes the fear from death, that lasts through death – because he came through death for us.
My hope is in Jesus. But before you put this down, thinking, “Here we go. I’m not interested in religion – not your one anyway!” I would like to ask you a question…
You are hoping for a better life, yes? But what you have placed your hope in is uncertain, if you are honest with yourself. However, you are willing to take a little trouble and difficulty in the hope that it will come through. Here’s the question (sorry to be blunt), “What hope do you have in the face of death?” Death is a great leveller. Everyone dies. Does what you hope for in life give you hope in the face of death? Or is death for you the failure and the end of hope? Would it not be wonderful to have a hope that takes the fear out of death, that lasts beyond death, that even death cannot frustrate? Jesus gives us that kind of hope.
Hope in Jesus
I find Jesus both beautifully attractive and incredibly challenging at the same time: his purity, his boldness, his straight talking, his miracles, and, most of all, his love and compassion. And it is in Jesus that I have put my hope. In the Bible in 1 Corinthians 15 the apostle Paul talks about the resurrection of Jesus. He says that Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep”, which means that Jesus’ resurrection is the guarantee that all people will be raised from the dead. For that reason we can have a hope that doesn’t just last for this life, but lasts into eternity. Paul (the writer of 1 Corinthians) writes of over 500 people who saw Jesus after he rose from the grave. His basic implication is, “If you don’t believe Jesus rose from the dead, go and ask some of them.” Of course we can’t now, but the point is that you could have then. Paul himself is perhaps the best witness of the resurrection. He was absolutely opposed to all things Christian, but then Jesus appeared to him and his life was completely turned around. Jesus gave him a new hope.
Hope of Glory
The hope I have in Jesus is one where pain will come to an end, where tears will be wiped away, where grief and sorrow will be unheard of and unremembered. It is hope of a time when my body won’t get aches and pains; where we won’t break our bones, and viruses will not harm us. It is hope of being with God, of enjoying only good things; where the glory of the summer sun is replaced by the glory of God himself. The Bible tell us that this is not an uncertain hope, like hoping for sunshine on your wedding day, but a hope that is 100% sure. It says that, “What you sow does not come to life unless it dies… So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body” (1 Corinthians 15:36,42-44).
Hope of Life
When Jesus is talking about eternal life he says this about resurrection (John 5:26-29), “For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to execute judgement, because he is the Son of Man. Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgement.”
Jesus tells us very plainly about the two possibilities for us in the resurrection.
I have tried to think about what would be going on in my mind if I knew I was going to die soon. I think my mind would be racing. I would remember so many good times and joys I have had. I would remember too so many things I wish I hadn’t done, and think about things I wish I had done. I know I would feel a sense of guilt, as well as perhaps a sense of achievement in some ways. But without my hope in Jesus I would wonder this: “Have I been good enough for the resurrection of life?” What amazes me most about Jesus I that my hope of life is not dependent on my effort or ability but on what Jesus has done for me. Jesus was asked once by a crowd, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” (John 6:28). Jesus answered, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” This is why my hope in Jesus is certain – because it isn’t based on my success but in my Saviour. The apostle Peter says that, “[Jesus] suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God” (1 Peter 3:18). Because he was successful I can be sure of eternal life. Jesus himself tells us he came not for those who think themselves righteous – who think they have a hope because of what they have done – but for sinners – those who know they don’t have a hope by themselves, and therefore they put their hope in him (Mark 2:17).
Hope of Salvation
Jesus also tells a short story that explains how to have real hope of joy in the presence of God:
“Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 18:10-14).
The obvious implication of what Jesus says is this: if we consider ourselves good and point the finger at others, then we will be humbled not saved. But if we own up to our faults before God, and seek his mercy and grace, then God will exalt us, rescue us from our sin and lift us joyfully to heaven.
Hope of Joy
The end of Psalm 16 sums up my hope: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures for evermore.” The path of life is faith in Jesus Christ. He is my hope. He came to bring hope to the world in the face of brokenness, pain and death. My prayer is that you will know him as your hope too – whatever your situation. Only he can bring you a hope that is certain, that takes the fear from death, that lasts through death – because he came through death for us.
I'm lost
A crowded shop… a crying child… ‘I’m lost’
A busy street… a puzzled motorist… ‘I’m lost’
Mental hospital ward… vacant faces… ‘I’m lost’
Returning mourners… an empty house… ‘I’m lost’
Tube train squash… newspaper barriers… ‘I’m lost’
Signing day at the labour… ‘Sorry nothing doing’… ‘I’m lost’
Repeat prescription? ‘Nerves isn’t it?’ Next please… ‘I’m lost’
No post… no phone calls… no callers… no one cares… ‘I’m lost’
Is there life after birth? Isn’t it all a sick joke? Meaningless… Hopeless…Useless… Roll on death and let’s be done with it… I’m in a maze, I’m in a daze… ‘I’m lost’
Good news comes where least expected. 2000 years ago. From the Middle East, a carpenter from Galilee says to you,
‘The Son of Man came to seek and save what was lost.’
Oh if I could believe that!
These are the words of Jesus Christ who also said, ‘Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’
‘I’m lost’… but you needn’t be.
Jesus has come to rescue you from everlasting separation from God. For the one who knows Jesus as a Living Saviour – the promise is –
‘I will never leave you; I will never abandon you.’
You can be found today by calling upon Jesus Christ to save you and be your ever present friend.
A busy street… a puzzled motorist… ‘I’m lost’
Mental hospital ward… vacant faces… ‘I’m lost’
Returning mourners… an empty house… ‘I’m lost’
Tube train squash… newspaper barriers… ‘I’m lost’
Signing day at the labour… ‘Sorry nothing doing’… ‘I’m lost’
Repeat prescription? ‘Nerves isn’t it?’ Next please… ‘I’m lost’
No post… no phone calls… no callers… no one cares… ‘I’m lost’
Is there life after birth? Isn’t it all a sick joke? Meaningless… Hopeless…Useless… Roll on death and let’s be done with it… I’m in a maze, I’m in a daze… ‘I’m lost’
Good news comes where least expected. 2000 years ago. From the Middle East, a carpenter from Galilee says to you,
‘The Son of Man came to seek and save what was lost.’
Oh if I could believe that!
These are the words of Jesus Christ who also said, ‘Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’
‘I’m lost’… but you needn’t be.
Jesus has come to rescue you from everlasting separation from God. For the one who knows Jesus as a Living Saviour – the promise is –
‘I will never leave you; I will never abandon you.’
You can be found today by calling upon Jesus Christ to save you and be your ever present friend.
Inner freedom
Have you ever asked yourself, “Why is there this craving within me for meaning and reality?” If we are honest, this inner yearning for reality sums up us all. The void, the emptiness, the inner loneliness, is part of our humanity.
It is what we are. The Bible, God’s Word, puts it this way: “I have seen the business that God has given to the children of man to be busy with. He [God] has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find what God has done from the beginning to the end” (Ecclesiastes 3:10-11). This explains why so many attempt to fill the void with drink and drugs. Did you know that the illicit drug trade is bigger than the oil industry? It is true.
How much sorrow and heartache is caused by alcohol abuse or drugs! Most criminal offences are committed under the influence. Do you know someone whose life has been shattered by such obsessions? It is likely that you do. What can remedy such obsessions? This is like an inner prison within each heart. Like it or not, the truth is that we carry around within our own jail cell. The Lord Jesus, in the Bible, spoke so accurately when He said, “I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin” (John 8:34). Frankly, that is why we are like we are. This is not popular and is often dismissed as old-fashioned, but sin is everyone’s problem, yours included. You and I cannot dismiss the reality of the human condition.
Are you driven by your hungers and obsessions within? This cruel slavery robs us of peace, contentment and rest. It separates us from a Holy God, and only in Jesus and His gospel is there forgiveness and an opportunity for a brand new start. This is good news indeed!
The Bible, God’s Word for this sad lost world, gives us the answer in Jesus. He is the Bread of Life for starving hearts. He is the Water of Life for thirsty souls. He offers new life and forgiveness for those who come to him. He died on a cross and rose again to bring men and women, young and old, back to a living and vital relationship with God. It is for all those who come to Him on His terms. This new beginning, this new acceptance with Him, is truly “inner freedom”. It is called God’s salvation.
It is what we are. The Bible, God’s Word, puts it this way: “I have seen the business that God has given to the children of man to be busy with. He [God] has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find what God has done from the beginning to the end” (Ecclesiastes 3:10-11). This explains why so many attempt to fill the void with drink and drugs. Did you know that the illicit drug trade is bigger than the oil industry? It is true.
How much sorrow and heartache is caused by alcohol abuse or drugs! Most criminal offences are committed under the influence. Do you know someone whose life has been shattered by such obsessions? It is likely that you do. What can remedy such obsessions? This is like an inner prison within each heart. Like it or not, the truth is that we carry around within our own jail cell. The Lord Jesus, in the Bible, spoke so accurately when He said, “I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin” (John 8:34). Frankly, that is why we are like we are. This is not popular and is often dismissed as old-fashioned, but sin is everyone’s problem, yours included. You and I cannot dismiss the reality of the human condition.
Are you driven by your hungers and obsessions within? This cruel slavery robs us of peace, contentment and rest. It separates us from a Holy God, and only in Jesus and His gospel is there forgiveness and an opportunity for a brand new start. This is good news indeed!
The Bible, God’s Word for this sad lost world, gives us the answer in Jesus. He is the Bread of Life for starving hearts. He is the Water of Life for thirsty souls. He offers new life and forgiveness for those who come to him. He died on a cross and rose again to bring men and women, young and old, back to a living and vital relationship with God. It is for all those who come to Him on His terms. This new beginning, this new acceptance with Him, is truly “inner freedom”. It is called God’s salvation.
It happened on Good Friday
On Good Friday 1912 two friends set off for a day's outing in what was then quite a novelty - a petrol driven bus! What they wanted to discover was whether they really could travel by regular bus services from London to Rochester (on the River Medway) in Kent and back in one day. So they left home quite early, but several changes and rather long waits for connections hindered them from reaching Rochester until late afternoon.
It was obvious that they would have to return by train after all and, finding that the next one would mean an hour's wait, they decided on some tea and a walk by the castle wall to Strood Pier.
As they sat and rested, frightened screams were suddenly heard. Down on the lower jetty were clustered half a dozen children screaming with horror. One of their companions, a blond-haired little girl, had fallen into the water and was being carried away by the strong tide to almost certain death. Without a moment's delay, Percy, oone of the two young men, threw off his coat and plunged into the water after her. He was soon at her side, holding her up and talking comfortingly to her to quieten her fears, as they were borne away by the swift tide.
From the opposite bank a man put out in a rowing boat and was only a few yards from them when Percy sank beneath the water. His last act was the push the little girl towards the approaching boat. She was saved, but there was no sign of her rescuer; his body was recovered an hour later.
Next day Percy's brother was called to the inquest. He never forgot the words of the coroner to Dorothy, the little girl. "I want you always to remember, my dear, that you life has been saved on Good Friday - once yesterday, when Percy Henry Gordon gave his life to save yours, and once on the first Good Friday that ever was, when the Lord Jesus Christ died to save you."
The story of Percy's noble and courageous act is remembered, even today, by a plaque on the wall near the river in Rochester. Yet his act in giving his life to save Dorothy from drowning is but a faint reflection of Jesus' love for sinners. Neither death was an accident. Jesus came to earth to take our punishment for sin. He died to set us free so that we can be friends with God. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13). Jesus' own love exceeds even this, in that he laid down his life for those who were his enemies.
Discovered among Percy's belongings was a pledge which he had signed and dated. It came from a gospel campaign that had taken place in his church the previous winter. The pledge read:
MY RESOLVE
I yield myself to Thee, Lord Jesus, spirit, soul and body; in the dark or in the light, in life or in death, to be Thine.
It was obvious that they would have to return by train after all and, finding that the next one would mean an hour's wait, they decided on some tea and a walk by the castle wall to Strood Pier.
As they sat and rested, frightened screams were suddenly heard. Down on the lower jetty were clustered half a dozen children screaming with horror. One of their companions, a blond-haired little girl, had fallen into the water and was being carried away by the strong tide to almost certain death. Without a moment's delay, Percy, oone of the two young men, threw off his coat and plunged into the water after her. He was soon at her side, holding her up and talking comfortingly to her to quieten her fears, as they were borne away by the swift tide.
From the opposite bank a man put out in a rowing boat and was only a few yards from them when Percy sank beneath the water. His last act was the push the little girl towards the approaching boat. She was saved, but there was no sign of her rescuer; his body was recovered an hour later.
Next day Percy's brother was called to the inquest. He never forgot the words of the coroner to Dorothy, the little girl. "I want you always to remember, my dear, that you life has been saved on Good Friday - once yesterday, when Percy Henry Gordon gave his life to save yours, and once on the first Good Friday that ever was, when the Lord Jesus Christ died to save you."
The story of Percy's noble and courageous act is remembered, even today, by a plaque on the wall near the river in Rochester. Yet his act in giving his life to save Dorothy from drowning is but a faint reflection of Jesus' love for sinners. Neither death was an accident. Jesus came to earth to take our punishment for sin. He died to set us free so that we can be friends with God. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13). Jesus' own love exceeds even this, in that he laid down his life for those who were his enemies.
Discovered among Percy's belongings was a pledge which he had signed and dated. It came from a gospel campaign that had taken place in his church the previous winter. The pledge read:
MY RESOLVE
I yield myself to Thee, Lord Jesus, spirit, soul and body; in the dark or in the light, in life or in death, to be Thine.
Looking good gets you so far...
You want to look your best, don’t you? And it’s always exciting to get the latest fashion and beauty tips?
But what about the 12 million people who had cosmetic surgery in the US last year? I think they were too easily influenced by what others look like, and what they would think about them.
Aren’t you and I exactly the same? You’re a reasoning individual – so why do you choose the clothes you do? Why did you pick that hairstyle? We’re far too easily influenced by what others think about us!
Or course, it is important to look yourself. But did you know you’re valued at a much deeper level?
Not because of looks, personality, or ability – but because of who you are, at the core of your being (Psalm 103:14). After all, what lasts the longest? Your looks? Your figure? Or your soul?
It has been said: “As for man, his days are like grass…the wind blows…and it is gone” (Psalm 103:15). That’s not long! But that’s not the whole story.
As I say, we’re all too easily influenced by what others think of us. And the only way you and I can see things the way they really are, is to get to know our Creator. And that’s why he sent Jesus.
You need to ask him to forgive you for the wrong things you’ve said, done and thought. If we do, he promises a brand new life, with wisdom to make the right choices. Will you trust him?
But what about the 12 million people who had cosmetic surgery in the US last year? I think they were too easily influenced by what others look like, and what they would think about them.
Aren’t you and I exactly the same? You’re a reasoning individual – so why do you choose the clothes you do? Why did you pick that hairstyle? We’re far too easily influenced by what others think about us!
Or course, it is important to look yourself. But did you know you’re valued at a much deeper level?
Not because of looks, personality, or ability – but because of who you are, at the core of your being (Psalm 103:14). After all, what lasts the longest? Your looks? Your figure? Or your soul?
It has been said: “As for man, his days are like grass…the wind blows…and it is gone” (Psalm 103:15). That’s not long! But that’s not the whole story.
As I say, we’re all too easily influenced by what others think of us. And the only way you and I can see things the way they really are, is to get to know our Creator. And that’s why he sent Jesus.
You need to ask him to forgive you for the wrong things you’ve said, done and thought. If we do, he promises a brand new life, with wisdom to make the right choices. Will you trust him?
Money gets you so far...
You always want to be making money, don’t you? You never want to owe it, and certainly never lose it!
But did you know that, at the end of June 2006, the total personal debt for the UK was £1228bn. The growth rate remains strong at 10.3%.
So why are we spending so much money? I think you and I are far too easily influenced by what others think of us. You’re a reasoning individual, aren’t you? So why do you choose to spend so much of your money on the clothes that you wear, the car that you drive, etc.?
Money does play a large part in our lives, and it’s good to have confidence that we’re mastering our circumstances. But did you know that you have true worth, at a much deeper level?
Not because of wealth, personality, or ability – but because of who you are, at the core of your being (Psalm 103:14). After all, what lasts the longest? Your bank balance? Favourable interest rates? Or your soul?
It has been said: “As for man, his days are like grass… the wind blows…and it is gone” (Psalm 103:15). That’s not very long is it?! But it’s not the whole story.
As I say, we’re too easily influenced by what others think of us. But the only way for you and I to get a right perspective of what really matters in life, is to get to know our Creator. And that’s why he sent Jesus.
You and I need to ask him to forgive us for the wrong things we’ve said, done and thought. And he promises a brand new life to those who trust in him. Will you do that?
But did you know that, at the end of June 2006, the total personal debt for the UK was £1228bn. The growth rate remains strong at 10.3%.
So why are we spending so much money? I think you and I are far too easily influenced by what others think of us. You’re a reasoning individual, aren’t you? So why do you choose to spend so much of your money on the clothes that you wear, the car that you drive, etc.?
Money does play a large part in our lives, and it’s good to have confidence that we’re mastering our circumstances. But did you know that you have true worth, at a much deeper level?
Not because of wealth, personality, or ability – but because of who you are, at the core of your being (Psalm 103:14). After all, what lasts the longest? Your bank balance? Favourable interest rates? Or your soul?
It has been said: “As for man, his days are like grass… the wind blows…and it is gone” (Psalm 103:15). That’s not very long is it?! But it’s not the whole story.
As I say, we’re too easily influenced by what others think of us. But the only way for you and I to get a right perspective of what really matters in life, is to get to know our Creator. And that’s why he sent Jesus.
You and I need to ask him to forgive us for the wrong things we’ve said, done and thought. And he promises a brand new life to those who trust in him. Will you do that?
Par le tourniquet (Through the turnstile) FRENCH
Le samedi, pendant la saison de foot, il n’y a qu’un endroit pour le vrai supporter – au terrain de son équipe préférée, afin de l’encourager. Tout d’abord il prend un programme, puis, par le tourniquet il rentre dans le stade pour y encourager les joueurs à (il l’espère bien) une victoire décisive et bien méritée !
Bien entendu le foot n’est qu’un jeu. Mais pour certains supporters perdre un match peut sembler être la fin du monde, surtout s’il fait suite à une série de défaites ou si leur équipe est éliminée de la Coupe ! Mais s’ils y réfléchissent raisonnablement, ils devraient reconnaître qu’il y a dans, la vie, des choses bien plus importantes que de voir gagner son équipe. Comme l’a montré les récents désastres dans les stades où des gens ont tragiquement perdu leur vie.
Les choses importantes de la vie, bien sûr, c’est de cela que le Seigneur Jésus Christ parlait souvent. Parmi elles il incluait : le pardon de notre péché, être prêt pour le Jugement, parvenir à connaître Dieu d’une manière réelle, trouver un vrai but dans la vie. Ce but le Seigneur Jésus disait que nous le trouverions si nous apprenions à adorer, servir, aimer et bénéficier pleinement de Dieu. En parlant de tout cela le Seigneur Jésus parlait de la vie – la vraie vie, la vie spirituelle, la vie abondante. Il enseignant que cette sorte de vie était la plus merveilleuse, passionnante et excitante e qu’elle continuerait même au-delà de la mort.
Vous demandez peut-être, « Comment est-ce que je peux obtenir cette vie ? » Voici la réponse : entrez par le tourniquet que Dieu a désigné. Ce tourniquet n’est personne d’autre que le Seigneur Jésus Christ lui-même. Le Seigneur Jésus a dit un jour, « Etroite est la porte, resserré le chemin qui mène à la vie. » Par cela il voulait dire que pour trouver la vraie vie, on doit d’abord être prêt à abandonner tout ce qui déplait à Dieu, puis consciemment et délibérément lui confier sa vie. Il voulait dire aussi qu’une telle personne doit sincèrement exprimer sa tristesse pour ses péchés qu’elle a commis et demander à Dieu de la pardonner et de lui donner un nouveau départ avec lui.
Vous savez, c’était pour nous amener dans ce nouveau terrain de paix avec Dieu et de vraie vie avec lui que le Seigneur Jésus Christ est venu et qu’il est mort sur la croix – payant la pénalité que notre péché avait encourue, prenant la punition de la condamnation et de la colère que nous méritons. En effet, par sa mort il a acheté notre droit d’entrée. Puis il est ressuscité. C’est parce qu’il a fait cela qu’il est maintenant possible pour vous de régler les questions importantes de la vie, les questions qui concernent et la vie et l’éternité. C’est pour cette raison que vous êtes exhorté dès maintenant à chercher le Seigneur et à entrer par le tourniquet qui mène au pardon, à l’acceptation et à un nouveau commencement avec Dieu – ce que vous ne pourrez plus faire lorsque votre vie actuelle sera terminée.
Bien entendu le foot n’est qu’un jeu. Mais pour certains supporters perdre un match peut sembler être la fin du monde, surtout s’il fait suite à une série de défaites ou si leur équipe est éliminée de la Coupe ! Mais s’ils y réfléchissent raisonnablement, ils devraient reconnaître qu’il y a dans, la vie, des choses bien plus importantes que de voir gagner son équipe. Comme l’a montré les récents désastres dans les stades où des gens ont tragiquement perdu leur vie.
Les choses importantes de la vie, bien sûr, c’est de cela que le Seigneur Jésus Christ parlait souvent. Parmi elles il incluait : le pardon de notre péché, être prêt pour le Jugement, parvenir à connaître Dieu d’une manière réelle, trouver un vrai but dans la vie. Ce but le Seigneur Jésus disait que nous le trouverions si nous apprenions à adorer, servir, aimer et bénéficier pleinement de Dieu. En parlant de tout cela le Seigneur Jésus parlait de la vie – la vraie vie, la vie spirituelle, la vie abondante. Il enseignant que cette sorte de vie était la plus merveilleuse, passionnante et excitante e qu’elle continuerait même au-delà de la mort.
Vous demandez peut-être, « Comment est-ce que je peux obtenir cette vie ? » Voici la réponse : entrez par le tourniquet que Dieu a désigné. Ce tourniquet n’est personne d’autre que le Seigneur Jésus Christ lui-même. Le Seigneur Jésus a dit un jour, « Etroite est la porte, resserré le chemin qui mène à la vie. » Par cela il voulait dire que pour trouver la vraie vie, on doit d’abord être prêt à abandonner tout ce qui déplait à Dieu, puis consciemment et délibérément lui confier sa vie. Il voulait dire aussi qu’une telle personne doit sincèrement exprimer sa tristesse pour ses péchés qu’elle a commis et demander à Dieu de la pardonner et de lui donner un nouveau départ avec lui.
Vous savez, c’était pour nous amener dans ce nouveau terrain de paix avec Dieu et de vraie vie avec lui que le Seigneur Jésus Christ est venu et qu’il est mort sur la croix – payant la pénalité que notre péché avait encourue, prenant la punition de la condamnation et de la colère que nous méritons. En effet, par sa mort il a acheté notre droit d’entrée. Puis il est ressuscité. C’est parce qu’il a fait cela qu’il est maintenant possible pour vous de régler les questions importantes de la vie, les questions qui concernent et la vie et l’éternité. C’est pour cette raison que vous êtes exhorté dès maintenant à chercher le Seigneur et à entrer par le tourniquet qui mène au pardon, à l’acceptation et à un nouveau commencement avec Dieu – ce que vous ne pourrez plus faire lorsque votre vie actuelle sera terminée.
Religion: it could damage your health
Life is full of warnings
From cigarette packets to doctors’ and dentists’ waiting rooms there are warnings. From AIDS, to rabies, to not paying local taxes… we keep hearing about warnings. Sorry but here is another… and one that may surprise you.
Here is a warning that religion could damage your health!
“Religion! How can that damage my health?” you might ask. It is not your physical health I am talking about but your spiritual health. You may not know much about this at the moment, but the reason this sort of leaflet was written was to warn you of that which can damage you. Religion could well be the death of you!
Whether you know it or not, you are religious
God made you and me that way. We have a never-dying soul within us that asks such questions as, “Why am I here?”, “What is life about?”… Some give themselves to the pursuit of pleasure or getting their homes nice… or they seek satisfaction through relationships… and they feel that brings a sense of worth and meaning. It never does, as well you know if you are honest.
And this is where religion comes in
It may be the people who call themselves ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’ or the priest, or the vicar, or somebody else who comes and promises you meaning and satisfaction and happiness. We want those things which bring happiness. The claims of religion to do this for you can really damage your spiritual health. Be careful that you do not believe lies that promise you much, only to disappoint you in the end. Have you been put off in the past like that? Many people have. You may be one of them.
Religion is man’s attempt to explain the world as he finds it
Really, it explains man’s attempt to flee from God and to strive to live in isolation from Him. Religion can be politics… or sport… or getting on in life. Those things never bring peace.
How can I tell what’s true and what’s false?
Good question! How do you know that even this leaflet is true? Someone asked this question years ago: “What is truth?” His name was Pilate. Heard of him? He washed his hands in public once and let Jesus Christ (whom he knew was innocent) die. It was this Jesus who said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” I know what you are going to say – “You said religion was bad for me.” It is, but that is not the same as really seeking God by reading His word, the Bible, and being confronted by the claims of Jesus. It was He who died in the place of all who would trust Him.
Religion cannot satisfy your deepest needs
It tries, but fails. The only one who can satisfy your deepest needs is the Lord Jesus Christ. This is what He said: “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” He speaks not of physical hunger or thirst, but of the spiritual desires that you have. This leaflet was written by those who know Him. Religion is not recommended. But Jesus is the one you need. And he offers to all who come to Him a living personal knowledge of Himself.
The Bible tells us how he lived, why He came, why He died and that the fact that He rose again. Did you know, for example, that it was religious people that hated Him and put him to death? Religion never has been the friend of true Christianity. Read the Bible and see for yourself. So many people close their minds at this point. Don’t you, will you?
From cigarette packets to doctors’ and dentists’ waiting rooms there are warnings. From AIDS, to rabies, to not paying local taxes… we keep hearing about warnings. Sorry but here is another… and one that may surprise you.
Here is a warning that religion could damage your health!
“Religion! How can that damage my health?” you might ask. It is not your physical health I am talking about but your spiritual health. You may not know much about this at the moment, but the reason this sort of leaflet was written was to warn you of that which can damage you. Religion could well be the death of you!
Whether you know it or not, you are religious
God made you and me that way. We have a never-dying soul within us that asks such questions as, “Why am I here?”, “What is life about?”… Some give themselves to the pursuit of pleasure or getting their homes nice… or they seek satisfaction through relationships… and they feel that brings a sense of worth and meaning. It never does, as well you know if you are honest.
And this is where religion comes in
It may be the people who call themselves ‘Jehovah’s Witnesses’ or the priest, or the vicar, or somebody else who comes and promises you meaning and satisfaction and happiness. We want those things which bring happiness. The claims of religion to do this for you can really damage your spiritual health. Be careful that you do not believe lies that promise you much, only to disappoint you in the end. Have you been put off in the past like that? Many people have. You may be one of them.
Religion is man’s attempt to explain the world as he finds it
Really, it explains man’s attempt to flee from God and to strive to live in isolation from Him. Religion can be politics… or sport… or getting on in life. Those things never bring peace.
How can I tell what’s true and what’s false?
Good question! How do you know that even this leaflet is true? Someone asked this question years ago: “What is truth?” His name was Pilate. Heard of him? He washed his hands in public once and let Jesus Christ (whom he knew was innocent) die. It was this Jesus who said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” I know what you are going to say – “You said religion was bad for me.” It is, but that is not the same as really seeking God by reading His word, the Bible, and being confronted by the claims of Jesus. It was He who died in the place of all who would trust Him.
Religion cannot satisfy your deepest needs
It tries, but fails. The only one who can satisfy your deepest needs is the Lord Jesus Christ. This is what He said: “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” He speaks not of physical hunger or thirst, but of the spiritual desires that you have. This leaflet was written by those who know Him. Religion is not recommended. But Jesus is the one you need. And he offers to all who come to Him a living personal knowledge of Himself.
The Bible tells us how he lived, why He came, why He died and that the fact that He rose again. Did you know, for example, that it was religious people that hated Him and put him to death? Religion never has been the friend of true Christianity. Read the Bible and see for yourself. So many people close their minds at this point. Don’t you, will you?
Religion or Salvation
There is a verse in the Bible regarding our salvation which is so important that it should be written on every heart. It is Acts 4:12: Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Neither is there salvation in any other: Note that it does not say, neither is there religion in any other; for that would not be true. There is religion in the name of Mohammed, Buddha, Confucius and many others. There is a religion in Judaism, in Catholicism, and in Protestantism.
But salvation is not found in any of them: neither in Eastern or Western religions. There is no salvation in the name Christian for Christian has no more power to save than Moslem or Buddhist or any other religious name.
Salvation is found in Christ and in Christ alone. Thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). Hence we are saved through Christ and not through religion. It is not, therefore, Islam that saves: it is Christ. It is not Judaism: it is Christ. Nor is it Roman Catholicism; it is Christ. Protestantism cannot save, but Christ can.
Not Mohammed, but Christ. Not Confucius, but Christ. Not Moses, but Christ. Not the Pope, but Christ. Not religion, but Christ. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me, said Jesus.
A man may be a good churchgoer. He may partake of the sacraments. He may be an officer in the church. He may be present at every service. But all this, as a basis of salvation, is useless. If he does it with the expectation of being repaid by having salvation bestowed upon him, he is deceived. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Men are so anxious to perform rites in the church, to go through certain forms and ceremonies, to practise special precepts, to obey laws and commandments, while refusing to see themselves as sinners. Believe in the sinner’s Saviour and you will receive eternal life through the death and resurrection of the Son of God.
If you have been relying on Christianity rather than upon Christ Himself for salvation, turn to Him now, for He alone can save you. Religion, with its man-devised forms and ceremonies, cannot save your soul. You personally must experience the saving grace of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
If you have not been redeemed from sin through the death of the Lord Jesus, take your place now as a sinner, believe in the sinner’s Saviour and He will give you eternal life.
Neither is there salvation in any other: Note that it does not say, neither is there religion in any other; for that would not be true. There is religion in the name of Mohammed, Buddha, Confucius and many others. There is a religion in Judaism, in Catholicism, and in Protestantism.
But salvation is not found in any of them: neither in Eastern or Western religions. There is no salvation in the name Christian for Christian has no more power to save than Moslem or Buddhist or any other religious name.
Salvation is found in Christ and in Christ alone. Thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). Hence we are saved through Christ and not through religion. It is not, therefore, Islam that saves: it is Christ. It is not Judaism: it is Christ. Nor is it Roman Catholicism; it is Christ. Protestantism cannot save, but Christ can.
Not Mohammed, but Christ. Not Confucius, but Christ. Not Moses, but Christ. Not the Pope, but Christ. Not religion, but Christ. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me, said Jesus.
A man may be a good churchgoer. He may partake of the sacraments. He may be an officer in the church. He may be present at every service. But all this, as a basis of salvation, is useless. If he does it with the expectation of being repaid by having salvation bestowed upon him, he is deceived. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Men are so anxious to perform rites in the church, to go through certain forms and ceremonies, to practise special precepts, to obey laws and commandments, while refusing to see themselves as sinners. Believe in the sinner’s Saviour and you will receive eternal life through the death and resurrection of the Son of God.
If you have been relying on Christianity rather than upon Christ Himself for salvation, turn to Him now, for He alone can save you. Religion, with its man-devised forms and ceremonies, cannot save your soul. You personally must experience the saving grace of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
If you have not been redeemed from sin through the death of the Lord Jesus, take your place now as a sinner, believe in the sinner’s Saviour and He will give you eternal life.
Resurrection
The fact that the Lord Jesus Christ arose from the dead on that first Easter morning is at the very heart of the Christian gospel. It was basic to the apostles’ teaching.
Because there is a resurrection, says the apostle Paul, we don’t hold that ridiculous, false, selfish concept that all there is to life may be summed up in the words, “Let us eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die.”
Neither is the experience of resurrection limited to those who accept and practise Christianity. Almost at the end of the Bible we have this dramatic scene presented to us:
And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
What God is saying here is that all will be raised from death: for some it will be to glory, but for others it will be to damnation. It is not only the Christian who will experience this, but even the most atheistic person will also have to stand before the holy and righteous God in judgement.
In his role of Judge, God will administer perfect justice. The books will be opened and the records scrupulously studied. The sentence passed will not only be beyond criticism, but also recognised as being so by the prisoner at the bar.
Only one of two judgements will be passed in respect of each of us. Either it will be “Guilty” or “Innocent”. If it is the former, then the dread sentence will be, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41).
But it need not be that for any reader of this leaflet. If you will but submit your life to God, throw yourself upon his mercy and seek to live for his glory, then the Lord Jesus Christ will say to you, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world (Matthew 25:34).
It cannot be both.
It must be one or the other.
Because there is a resurrection, says the apostle Paul, we don’t hold that ridiculous, false, selfish concept that all there is to life may be summed up in the words, “Let us eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die.”
Neither is the experience of resurrection limited to those who accept and practise Christianity. Almost at the end of the Bible we have this dramatic scene presented to us:
And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
What God is saying here is that all will be raised from death: for some it will be to glory, but for others it will be to damnation. It is not only the Christian who will experience this, but even the most atheistic person will also have to stand before the holy and righteous God in judgement.
In his role of Judge, God will administer perfect justice. The books will be opened and the records scrupulously studied. The sentence passed will not only be beyond criticism, but also recognised as being so by the prisoner at the bar.
Only one of two judgements will be passed in respect of each of us. Either it will be “Guilty” or “Innocent”. If it is the former, then the dread sentence will be, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41).
But it need not be that for any reader of this leaflet. If you will but submit your life to God, throw yourself upon his mercy and seek to live for his glory, then the Lord Jesus Christ will say to you, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world (Matthew 25:34).
It cannot be both.
It must be one or the other.
Sacrifice
“They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them.”
These familiar words remind us of something that we ought to do so. We ought to remember those who laid down their lives in two world wars and in subsequent wars. Many died in the cause of freedom and to defend this country from tyranny.
Great indeed was the sacrifice made. It was great because even one life is most precious and this country lost nearly one million citizens killed during the first world war and over a quarter of a million in the second. Many of them, of course, were young men, seemingly with their whole lives before them. They left behind grieving parents, wives and children. Yes, the one thing we must do is remember.
We ought to honour those who died fighting for their country. But in doing so we should always remember, love and worship one who made a far greater sacrifice than they. His name is Jesus. He left his Father and his glorious heavenly home to come to a rebellious world, and to free from the tyranny of sin all those who would repent and put their trust in him. He has made it possible for God to forgiven them and he gives them eternal life. Yes he too died for freedom’s sake – as many can testify! For in believing they have found that they have been set free, from both the accusing guilt of sin and its imprisoning power.
The sacrifice of others must not be belittled. But Christ’s was the greater sacrifice: greater because he is God’s own Son; and greater because he died, not for his friends, but for his enemies. He died to bear the punishment their sins deserved and bring them back to God.
When our country honours its war dead, their exploits are recounted, wreaths are laid, and people gather in churches and around monuments for simple acts of remembrance.
Christ’s great sacrifice must also be honoured. But not in this way. What he expects from those for whom he died is their love and obedience – a love and obedience that is expressed in a turning away from all that is wrong, false and impure, and in trusting their lives to him.
Reader – will you do this? Many already have done so, and now rejoice in sins forgiven, the knowledge of God and the hope of heaven. You too may join. Why not write and found out more? The producer and the distributor of this leaflet will be glad to help you in any way they can.
Greater love has no-one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13)
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)
These familiar words remind us of something that we ought to do so. We ought to remember those who laid down their lives in two world wars and in subsequent wars. Many died in the cause of freedom and to defend this country from tyranny.
Great indeed was the sacrifice made. It was great because even one life is most precious and this country lost nearly one million citizens killed during the first world war and over a quarter of a million in the second. Many of them, of course, were young men, seemingly with their whole lives before them. They left behind grieving parents, wives and children. Yes, the one thing we must do is remember.
We ought to honour those who died fighting for their country. But in doing so we should always remember, love and worship one who made a far greater sacrifice than they. His name is Jesus. He left his Father and his glorious heavenly home to come to a rebellious world, and to free from the tyranny of sin all those who would repent and put their trust in him. He has made it possible for God to forgiven them and he gives them eternal life. Yes he too died for freedom’s sake – as many can testify! For in believing they have found that they have been set free, from both the accusing guilt of sin and its imprisoning power.
The sacrifice of others must not be belittled. But Christ’s was the greater sacrifice: greater because he is God’s own Son; and greater because he died, not for his friends, but for his enemies. He died to bear the punishment their sins deserved and bring them back to God.
When our country honours its war dead, their exploits are recounted, wreaths are laid, and people gather in churches and around monuments for simple acts of remembrance.
Christ’s great sacrifice must also be honoured. But not in this way. What he expects from those for whom he died is their love and obedience – a love and obedience that is expressed in a turning away from all that is wrong, false and impure, and in trusting their lives to him.
Reader – will you do this? Many already have done so, and now rejoice in sins forgiven, the knowledge of God and the hope of heaven. You too may join. Why not write and found out more? The producer and the distributor of this leaflet will be glad to help you in any way they can.
Greater love has no-one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13)
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)
The 'In Crowd' gets you so far...
You always want to fit in, don’t you? You never want to be “odd one out”, and certainly never be picked on!
Did you know that most young teenagers spend more than £30 a month on clothes? And 4500 young people called Childline each day, in 2005? I think that kids today face lots of pressure to be like someone else.
So why are we so concerned about what others think of us? You’re a reasoning individual, aren’t you – so why do you choose the clothes you do? And why do you have your hair that way?
Of course it’s nice to be respected and it’s great to have good friends. But did you know you’re truly valued and loved, at a much deeper level?
Not because of looks, personality, or ability – but because of who you actually are (Psalm 103:14). After all, what lasts the longest? Being the centre of attention? Having the next “big thing”? Or your soul?
It has been said: “As for man, his days are like grass... the wind blows…and it is gone” (Psalm 103:15). That doesn’t sound very long, does it?! But it’s not the whole story.
We’re all too easily influenced by what others think of us. And the only way you and I can see things the way they really are, is to get to know our Creator. And that’s why he sent Jesus.
You and I need to ask him to forgive us for the wrong things we’ve said, done and thought. If we do, he promises a brand new life, with wisdom to make the right choices. Will you trust him?
Did you know that most young teenagers spend more than £30 a month on clothes? And 4500 young people called Childline each day, in 2005? I think that kids today face lots of pressure to be like someone else.
So why are we so concerned about what others think of us? You’re a reasoning individual, aren’t you – so why do you choose the clothes you do? And why do you have your hair that way?
Of course it’s nice to be respected and it’s great to have good friends. But did you know you’re truly valued and loved, at a much deeper level?
Not because of looks, personality, or ability – but because of who you actually are (Psalm 103:14). After all, what lasts the longest? Being the centre of attention? Having the next “big thing”? Or your soul?
It has been said: “As for man, his days are like grass... the wind blows…and it is gone” (Psalm 103:15). That doesn’t sound very long, does it?! But it’s not the whole story.
We’re all too easily influenced by what others think of us. And the only way you and I can see things the way they really are, is to get to know our Creator. And that’s why he sent Jesus.
You and I need to ask him to forgive us for the wrong things we’ve said, done and thought. If we do, he promises a brand new life, with wisdom to make the right choices. Will you trust him?
The Resurrection: 3 Facts
The Facts Of The Resurrection
Many times during his lifetime Jesus predicted that he would rise from the dead. In one particular incident he said this “.... I lay down my life - only to take it up again. No-one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.” (John 10 v 17-18.)
The problem is, of course, that no-one in history, before or since, has been able to decide to come back to life once they’ve died. People just don’t rise from the dead. The resurrection can easily be a huge intellectual and philosophical barrier to believing in Jesus simply because resurrection doesn’t happen. But then if Jesus is God the Son, fully God and fully man, then there is no reason to think that his rising from the dead would be impossible. In fact Jesus, being the only one to have ever done it, is marked out as being who he said he was. He is not just a man but he is also God, so there is no way death could keep its hold on him. He had to rise from the dead if he really is God the Son.
In the next few pages I want to note three facts that the Bible records and briefly consider the possible explanations
Fact 1: The Empty Tomb
Everyone agrees that the tomb was empty. Whatever had happened, Jesus’ body had gone and that needed an explanation.
· Suggestion 1: Jesus was never in there!
The suggestion holds no water. Jesus’ burial was a public act; it wasn’t done in secret (Matthew 27v57-61). Everybody knew which grave to go to when the tomb was found empty. A seal was put on the tomb (27v65-66) to make sure no-one tried to steal the body - and there is no-way that the seal would have been put on unless the authorities were convinced that the dead body of Jesus of Nazareth was inside.
· Suggestion 2: Jesus’ enemies took the body
Why would they bother when they had set a guard and placed a seal? It would only fuel the very rumours they wanted to stop. And if they did have the body all they had to do to stop the disciples spreading the news that Jesus had risen from the dead, would be to produce the body and say, “Ha ha! No he hasn’t!”
· Suggestion 3: Jesus was never dead.
This one is my favourite because it is just so silly. The idea was that Jesus never died; he only swooned or fainted. On waking up he managed to escape the tomb, recover and then appear to his followers before he finally died. Here are my problems with this idea.
First Jesus was beaten with a Roman whip (Matthew 27v24-26). This would have had bits of metal and bone tied into the leather so that, as it hit you, it would flay your flesh causing your skin to come off in little strips. He would be in a very bad condition before he even got to the cross. He was then hung on a cross (which he was too weak to carry all the way up the hill) until he died. Nails were driven through his hands and feet into the wood. He would have to physically hold himself up on the nails to be able to take a breath. He died and everyone saw it. (Matthew 27v32-54) But he died quicker than was normally expected. The other two he was crucified with hadn’t died when they had to be taken down, so their legs were broken. Jesus’ legs weren’t. But just to make sure he was dead a soldier stuck a spear in his side. When he did blood and water came out, not just blood. (John 19v31-34) This is yet another indication that he was dead. Blood separates out after death so that when you draw blood you get this blood and water combination. Before death you would only get blood. After this he was put in a cold stone tomb. A stone that would have taken at least ten men to move was rolled over the entrance and a guard was placed (Matthew 27v57-66).
Of course after three days in this tomb Jesus woke up, realised that he hadn’t died, brushed himself off, rolled away the huge stone, defeated the Roman guard, and wandered in to town, claiming he had risen from the dead! I don’t think so.
· Suggestion 4: Jesus’ friends took the body.
This is of course the story that the Jewish authorities cooked up, paying off the Roman guard and promising to protect their lives before their superiors (Matthew 28v11-15).
Yes that’s right - a Roman guard was put on the tomb. To steal the body the disciples would have had to creep past this Roman guard and move the huge stone that blocked the tomb entrance without any noise. They would then have to take the body out of the tomb, making it look as if it had just melted away (the grave clothes were folded in on themselves as if the body had simply vanished from inside them and they had collapsed where they were). (John 20v3-7). Finally they would need to creep back past the guard and off down the road without anyone seeing them, find a great hiding place and keep it all a secret.
If the Roman guard failed in their duty to protect the grave they would face at least a severe flogging and more than likely death. They weren’t about to drop off to sleep on this one!
On top of this we need to take into account the disciples’ mental state. None of them had understood Jesus when he had said he would die and rise from the dead. The first time Jesus tells them, Peter, one of his closest disciples, tells him not to be so silly, to which Jesus replies “Get behind me Satan!” (Mark 8v31-33). The next time he tells them, they are all a bit puzzled, but they (unsurprisingly) keep their mouths shut (Mark 9 v 30-32).
Why am I telling you this? When Jesus was arrested and killed, the disciples thought it was all over. When he was arrested they all ran away (Mark 14v50). Peter and John had the guts to follow at a distance, but when Peter was challenged he denied (three times) he even knew Jesus (John 18v15-18; 25-27). They were all scared stiff that they might be next. They got together behind locked doors, and when Jesus did appear to them at first they did not recognise him, and others did not believe the report (John 20 v 13; 19; 24-31). There was no way that these demoralised, frightened men and women would have had the courage to defeat a Roman guard (professionally trained soldiers), run off with the body and then be willing to die at the hands of lions and suffer upside down crucifixion, if it was all a lie.
· Suggestion 5: Jesus rose from the grave.
It is the only answer that makes any sense of the fact that the tomb was empty. Jesus was definitely dead. He was definitely in the tomb on the Friday but he definitely wasn’t by the end of Sunday. The grave clothes had fallen in on themselves. The guards were powerless to do anything about it. The Jewish leaders cooked up a story to “explain” what had happened. It all adds up to one conclusion: the tomb was empty because Jesus’ promise had come true - he really did have authority to take his life up again, and he had done it.
Fact 2: The Resurrection Appearances
After Jesus rose from the dead he appeared to his disciples on many different occasions. Sometimes he appeared to one person at a time, other times to groups; and on one occasion he appeared to over five hundred people at one time. How could this be explained away?
· Suggestion 1: Hallucination.
What were the characteristics of these sightings then? First, Jesus appeared to people who weren’t expecting him, and (in some situations) they took a while to realise that it was really him (Luke 24v13-15). They were demoralised and downcast, some of them not even hoping beyond hope that somehow Jesus might return (John 20v24-25). Second, Jesus’ appearances were at different times of day in different places and before a variety of different people (John 20v10-18; 19; 26-27; 21v4). He appeared inside houses and outside on the road (Luke 24v13-16). He allowed people to see his wounds and touch them. He cooked food, which was eaten, and he himself ate and drank with those he appeared to (Luke 24v37-43; John 21v9). All these different circumstances go right against the possibility of hallucination. All of this, coupled with the fact that these appearances stop at a definite time (his ascension) and do not reoccur, apart from one final appearance to a man who was dead set against destroying this early Christian religion (Acts 9v1-6), leaves us with only one possible conclusion.
· Suggestion 2: Jesus rose from the grave.
Jesus rose physically from the grave and appeared to those he would send out as witnesses of what he had accomplished. This is the only explanation that fits the fact that there are so many reported sightings of him after his death and burial.
Fact 3: The Change In The Disciples There is no doubting that something major happened in the lives of the disciples. They went from scared men huddled behind locked doors to seemingly fearless advocates of the cross of Christ within a month and half. They moved from fleeing from even the possibility of arrest, to doing things that would blatantly put their lives in danger, before both Jewish and Roman authorities. What could have been the cause?
· Suggestion 1: They were deluded.
They clearly believed what they were saying was true. To do what they did for something that they knew was a lie would not have happened. People may try and pull off a con if it would benefit them. But the only place this con would get them was jail and/or death. How could they have been so deluded? We’ve already ruled out hallucination. How about if someone had played a cruel trick on them and lied to them saying that Jesus had risen when he hadn’t? Perhaps it sounds good, but it holds no water. The disciples specifically record that they saw, heard and touched Jesus after his resurrection. They are determined that this isn’t something they have made up, but what they experienced themselves (2Peter 1v16). They talk about what they have seen and heard and touched, not only in the gospel accounts but also in letters written to other Christians at a later date (1John 1v1). Not only is hallucination not a viable option, but delusion isn’t either. It is clear that the disciples were not told by hearsay, but they actually saw and experienced the risen Jesus.
Even after they had seen Jesus and watched him ascend back to heaven they were still gathered together in one place not venturing out. It wasn’t until the Holy Spirit came upon them (whom Jesus had promised to send,) that they had the courage to speak out about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was Jesus living in them through the Holy Spirit that gave them this boldness; he not only appeared to them, but he changed them himself.
· Suggestion 2: Jesus rose from the grave.
It would seem that Jesus must have risen from the grave, because there is no other way that such a massive change could have occurred in this group of people. Take Peter for instance: from snivelling Peter who denied that he even knew Jesus, to emboldened Peter who stood up in the same city before a crowd of thousands and accused them (rightly) of crucifying God’s Messiah (Luke 22v54-62; Acts 2v14-47). This kind of life turn around does not happen unless something real and incredible has just happened. It isn’t just the disciples who had their lives turned around either. The church spread and grew and many people came to know the transforming power of Christ. Many people today continue to testify that Jesus Christ has transformed their lives, including me.
What was it all about?
The Bible says that Jesus died for our sin (our rejection of God and him,) and was raised to eternal life and now sits on the throne of God.
Jesus died as a saviour. He died to save us from God’s wrath at our rejecting truth, righteousness and goodness - Himself.
Jesus rose as Lord. One day he will return and everything will become subject to him - he is truth, righteousness and goodness - and there will be no argument to his rule.
The offer he places before us is amazing:
No matter who you are or where you are from or what you have done, you can have peace with God through what he has done. Jesus death and resurrection are not just to save people from God’s wrath, but also to save them for God’s blessing.
He calls out “Repent and believe” and all who do will find rest for their souls and eternal life. They will know truth, righteousness and goodness personally as the Lord Jesus makes himself known to them.
To repent means to turn away from your rejection of God and seek God’s forgiveness for all the times you have ignored, abused and angered him. It means to take Christ as your saviour, trusting his death to divert God’s wrath from you onto himself.
To believe means to trust Jesus in all that he says, trusting that his way of life is the best way of life and that he will care for you in every situation. It means to take Christ as your Lord, trusting his word for your life.
If you want to know more, why not contact the person that gave you this booklet?
I find the evidence for the resurrection completely compelling and indisputable. People in the past have set out to disprove the resurrection and ended up turning to this wonderful Lord and Saviour because the evidence is so great. One example is Josh McDowell. He has written a book called the Resurrection Factor in which he argues (much better than I just have) for the case for the resurrection. Millions of people, the world over, today claim to have met this Jesus and have given their lives to him as a result. They know what it is to have rest for their souls and life to the full. They love to love their Lord and make much of him. I pray that you will too.
© Chris Hawthorne 2003
Many times during his lifetime Jesus predicted that he would rise from the dead. In one particular incident he said this “.... I lay down my life - only to take it up again. No-one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.” (John 10 v 17-18.)
The problem is, of course, that no-one in history, before or since, has been able to decide to come back to life once they’ve died. People just don’t rise from the dead. The resurrection can easily be a huge intellectual and philosophical barrier to believing in Jesus simply because resurrection doesn’t happen. But then if Jesus is God the Son, fully God and fully man, then there is no reason to think that his rising from the dead would be impossible. In fact Jesus, being the only one to have ever done it, is marked out as being who he said he was. He is not just a man but he is also God, so there is no way death could keep its hold on him. He had to rise from the dead if he really is God the Son.
In the next few pages I want to note three facts that the Bible records and briefly consider the possible explanations
Fact 1: The Empty Tomb
Everyone agrees that the tomb was empty. Whatever had happened, Jesus’ body had gone and that needed an explanation.
· Suggestion 1: Jesus was never in there!
The suggestion holds no water. Jesus’ burial was a public act; it wasn’t done in secret (Matthew 27v57-61). Everybody knew which grave to go to when the tomb was found empty. A seal was put on the tomb (27v65-66) to make sure no-one tried to steal the body - and there is no-way that the seal would have been put on unless the authorities were convinced that the dead body of Jesus of Nazareth was inside.
· Suggestion 2: Jesus’ enemies took the body
Why would they bother when they had set a guard and placed a seal? It would only fuel the very rumours they wanted to stop. And if they did have the body all they had to do to stop the disciples spreading the news that Jesus had risen from the dead, would be to produce the body and say, “Ha ha! No he hasn’t!”
· Suggestion 3: Jesus was never dead.
This one is my favourite because it is just so silly. The idea was that Jesus never died; he only swooned or fainted. On waking up he managed to escape the tomb, recover and then appear to his followers before he finally died. Here are my problems with this idea.
First Jesus was beaten with a Roman whip (Matthew 27v24-26). This would have had bits of metal and bone tied into the leather so that, as it hit you, it would flay your flesh causing your skin to come off in little strips. He would be in a very bad condition before he even got to the cross. He was then hung on a cross (which he was too weak to carry all the way up the hill) until he died. Nails were driven through his hands and feet into the wood. He would have to physically hold himself up on the nails to be able to take a breath. He died and everyone saw it. (Matthew 27v32-54) But he died quicker than was normally expected. The other two he was crucified with hadn’t died when they had to be taken down, so their legs were broken. Jesus’ legs weren’t. But just to make sure he was dead a soldier stuck a spear in his side. When he did blood and water came out, not just blood. (John 19v31-34) This is yet another indication that he was dead. Blood separates out after death so that when you draw blood you get this blood and water combination. Before death you would only get blood. After this he was put in a cold stone tomb. A stone that would have taken at least ten men to move was rolled over the entrance and a guard was placed (Matthew 27v57-66).
Of course after three days in this tomb Jesus woke up, realised that he hadn’t died, brushed himself off, rolled away the huge stone, defeated the Roman guard, and wandered in to town, claiming he had risen from the dead! I don’t think so.
· Suggestion 4: Jesus’ friends took the body.
This is of course the story that the Jewish authorities cooked up, paying off the Roman guard and promising to protect their lives before their superiors (Matthew 28v11-15).
Yes that’s right - a Roman guard was put on the tomb. To steal the body the disciples would have had to creep past this Roman guard and move the huge stone that blocked the tomb entrance without any noise. They would then have to take the body out of the tomb, making it look as if it had just melted away (the grave clothes were folded in on themselves as if the body had simply vanished from inside them and they had collapsed where they were). (John 20v3-7). Finally they would need to creep back past the guard and off down the road without anyone seeing them, find a great hiding place and keep it all a secret.
If the Roman guard failed in their duty to protect the grave they would face at least a severe flogging and more than likely death. They weren’t about to drop off to sleep on this one!
On top of this we need to take into account the disciples’ mental state. None of them had understood Jesus when he had said he would die and rise from the dead. The first time Jesus tells them, Peter, one of his closest disciples, tells him not to be so silly, to which Jesus replies “Get behind me Satan!” (Mark 8v31-33). The next time he tells them, they are all a bit puzzled, but they (unsurprisingly) keep their mouths shut (Mark 9 v 30-32).
Why am I telling you this? When Jesus was arrested and killed, the disciples thought it was all over. When he was arrested they all ran away (Mark 14v50). Peter and John had the guts to follow at a distance, but when Peter was challenged he denied (three times) he even knew Jesus (John 18v15-18; 25-27). They were all scared stiff that they might be next. They got together behind locked doors, and when Jesus did appear to them at first they did not recognise him, and others did not believe the report (John 20 v 13; 19; 24-31). There was no way that these demoralised, frightened men and women would have had the courage to defeat a Roman guard (professionally trained soldiers), run off with the body and then be willing to die at the hands of lions and suffer upside down crucifixion, if it was all a lie.
· Suggestion 5: Jesus rose from the grave.
It is the only answer that makes any sense of the fact that the tomb was empty. Jesus was definitely dead. He was definitely in the tomb on the Friday but he definitely wasn’t by the end of Sunday. The grave clothes had fallen in on themselves. The guards were powerless to do anything about it. The Jewish leaders cooked up a story to “explain” what had happened. It all adds up to one conclusion: the tomb was empty because Jesus’ promise had come true - he really did have authority to take his life up again, and he had done it.
Fact 2: The Resurrection Appearances
After Jesus rose from the dead he appeared to his disciples on many different occasions. Sometimes he appeared to one person at a time, other times to groups; and on one occasion he appeared to over five hundred people at one time. How could this be explained away?
· Suggestion 1: Hallucination.
What were the characteristics of these sightings then? First, Jesus appeared to people who weren’t expecting him, and (in some situations) they took a while to realise that it was really him (Luke 24v13-15). They were demoralised and downcast, some of them not even hoping beyond hope that somehow Jesus might return (John 20v24-25). Second, Jesus’ appearances were at different times of day in different places and before a variety of different people (John 20v10-18; 19; 26-27; 21v4). He appeared inside houses and outside on the road (Luke 24v13-16). He allowed people to see his wounds and touch them. He cooked food, which was eaten, and he himself ate and drank with those he appeared to (Luke 24v37-43; John 21v9). All these different circumstances go right against the possibility of hallucination. All of this, coupled with the fact that these appearances stop at a definite time (his ascension) and do not reoccur, apart from one final appearance to a man who was dead set against destroying this early Christian religion (Acts 9v1-6), leaves us with only one possible conclusion.
· Suggestion 2: Jesus rose from the grave.
Jesus rose physically from the grave and appeared to those he would send out as witnesses of what he had accomplished. This is the only explanation that fits the fact that there are so many reported sightings of him after his death and burial.
Fact 3: The Change In The Disciples There is no doubting that something major happened in the lives of the disciples. They went from scared men huddled behind locked doors to seemingly fearless advocates of the cross of Christ within a month and half. They moved from fleeing from even the possibility of arrest, to doing things that would blatantly put their lives in danger, before both Jewish and Roman authorities. What could have been the cause?
· Suggestion 1: They were deluded.
They clearly believed what they were saying was true. To do what they did for something that they knew was a lie would not have happened. People may try and pull off a con if it would benefit them. But the only place this con would get them was jail and/or death. How could they have been so deluded? We’ve already ruled out hallucination. How about if someone had played a cruel trick on them and lied to them saying that Jesus had risen when he hadn’t? Perhaps it sounds good, but it holds no water. The disciples specifically record that they saw, heard and touched Jesus after his resurrection. They are determined that this isn’t something they have made up, but what they experienced themselves (2Peter 1v16). They talk about what they have seen and heard and touched, not only in the gospel accounts but also in letters written to other Christians at a later date (1John 1v1). Not only is hallucination not a viable option, but delusion isn’t either. It is clear that the disciples were not told by hearsay, but they actually saw and experienced the risen Jesus.
Even after they had seen Jesus and watched him ascend back to heaven they were still gathered together in one place not venturing out. It wasn’t until the Holy Spirit came upon them (whom Jesus had promised to send,) that they had the courage to speak out about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was Jesus living in them through the Holy Spirit that gave them this boldness; he not only appeared to them, but he changed them himself.
· Suggestion 2: Jesus rose from the grave.
It would seem that Jesus must have risen from the grave, because there is no other way that such a massive change could have occurred in this group of people. Take Peter for instance: from snivelling Peter who denied that he even knew Jesus, to emboldened Peter who stood up in the same city before a crowd of thousands and accused them (rightly) of crucifying God’s Messiah (Luke 22v54-62; Acts 2v14-47). This kind of life turn around does not happen unless something real and incredible has just happened. It isn’t just the disciples who had their lives turned around either. The church spread and grew and many people came to know the transforming power of Christ. Many people today continue to testify that Jesus Christ has transformed their lives, including me.
What was it all about?
The Bible says that Jesus died for our sin (our rejection of God and him,) and was raised to eternal life and now sits on the throne of God.
Jesus died as a saviour. He died to save us from God’s wrath at our rejecting truth, righteousness and goodness - Himself.
Jesus rose as Lord. One day he will return and everything will become subject to him - he is truth, righteousness and goodness - and there will be no argument to his rule.
The offer he places before us is amazing:
No matter who you are or where you are from or what you have done, you can have peace with God through what he has done. Jesus death and resurrection are not just to save people from God’s wrath, but also to save them for God’s blessing.
He calls out “Repent and believe” and all who do will find rest for their souls and eternal life. They will know truth, righteousness and goodness personally as the Lord Jesus makes himself known to them.
To repent means to turn away from your rejection of God and seek God’s forgiveness for all the times you have ignored, abused and angered him. It means to take Christ as your saviour, trusting his death to divert God’s wrath from you onto himself.
To believe means to trust Jesus in all that he says, trusting that his way of life is the best way of life and that he will care for you in every situation. It means to take Christ as your Lord, trusting his word for your life.
If you want to know more, why not contact the person that gave you this booklet?
I find the evidence for the resurrection completely compelling and indisputable. People in the past have set out to disprove the resurrection and ended up turning to this wonderful Lord and Saviour because the evidence is so great. One example is Josh McDowell. He has written a book called the Resurrection Factor in which he argues (much better than I just have) for the case for the resurrection. Millions of people, the world over, today claim to have met this Jesus and have given their lives to him as a result. They know what it is to have rest for their souls and life to the full. They love to love their Lord and make much of him. I pray that you will too.
© Chris Hawthorne 2003
The Way of Salvation
The Son of man is come to seek that which was lost (Luke 19:10).
Do you really want to be saved? Would you like to know the way? There are just four steps you need to take.
1. Recognise that you are a lost sinner You would not want to be found unless you were lost; neither would you cry to a lifeguard for help unless you were drowning. You would not call for a doctor unless you were ill. You will not turn to the Saviour until you recognise yourself to be a sinner. Whether or not you feel yourself to be a sinner does not change the situation, God declares that we are all sinners and He should know.
He says: All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way (Isaiah 53:6) and: All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) and again: There is none righteous, no, not one (Romans 3:10).
An apple tree is not an apple tree because it bears apples: it bears apples because it is an apple tree. You are not a sinner because you sin; you sin because you are a sinner.
Do you admit you are a sinner?
2. Admit you cannot save yourself You cannot save yourself by becoming religious and attending church services, by being baptised and taking communion, or by giving money to missions, or by devoting time and energy to doing good works. Living a moral, upright life will not help you, nor will keeping the commandments and obeying the Golden Rule. In fact, you cannot save yourself at all. You must realise this, for until you give up all hope of self-reformation you will never be saved.
It is not by works of righteousness which we have done (Titus 3:5) that any of us can be saved, for all our righteousness are as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).
Will you admit you cannot save yourself?
3. Believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died in the place of sinners Your sin deserves eternal death as its reward (see Romans 6:23) but Jesus died to save us from Hell. He died as a substitute, in the place of everyone who would believe in Him. The wrath of God fell on Him, as the Bible says:
Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God (1 Peter 3:18). The LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all (Isaiah 53:6).
Jesus paid in full the debt owed by each believing sinner.
Because of this, God offers us salvation as a free gift. On these grounds alone can you be saved.
Do you believe that Jesus is God’s only begotten Son and that on the cross He bore our sins (see 1 Peter 2:24)? If so, then…
4. Call upon Him now to save you The sin question having been dealt with, God and the repentant, believing sinner are reconciled. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). He forgives us for Christ’s sake. God will not exact punishment for sin twice – first in a substitute and then in the sinner. When God forgives, He also chooses not to remember any longer. Their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more (Hebrews 8:12).
Once God has forgiven us, He changes us, starting with our innermost being. We are born again, Jesus said, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). Our old, sinful way of life no longer has the same appeal to us. We have new loves, new desires. We grow in love for God and for the things of God. And at the same time we grow to hate our own sinfulness.
If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Call on God now to save you, and do not rest until you know He has.
Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me (Psalm 50:15). Ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the Lord (Jeremiah 29:13-14).
Do you really want to be saved? Would you like to know the way? There are just four steps you need to take.
1. Recognise that you are a lost sinner You would not want to be found unless you were lost; neither would you cry to a lifeguard for help unless you were drowning. You would not call for a doctor unless you were ill. You will not turn to the Saviour until you recognise yourself to be a sinner. Whether or not you feel yourself to be a sinner does not change the situation, God declares that we are all sinners and He should know.
He says: All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way (Isaiah 53:6) and: All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) and again: There is none righteous, no, not one (Romans 3:10).
An apple tree is not an apple tree because it bears apples: it bears apples because it is an apple tree. You are not a sinner because you sin; you sin because you are a sinner.
Do you admit you are a sinner?
2. Admit you cannot save yourself You cannot save yourself by becoming religious and attending church services, by being baptised and taking communion, or by giving money to missions, or by devoting time and energy to doing good works. Living a moral, upright life will not help you, nor will keeping the commandments and obeying the Golden Rule. In fact, you cannot save yourself at all. You must realise this, for until you give up all hope of self-reformation you will never be saved.
It is not by works of righteousness which we have done (Titus 3:5) that any of us can be saved, for all our righteousness are as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).
Will you admit you cannot save yourself?
3. Believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died in the place of sinners Your sin deserves eternal death as its reward (see Romans 6:23) but Jesus died to save us from Hell. He died as a substitute, in the place of everyone who would believe in Him. The wrath of God fell on Him, as the Bible says:
Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God (1 Peter 3:18). The LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all (Isaiah 53:6).
Jesus paid in full the debt owed by each believing sinner.
Because of this, God offers us salvation as a free gift. On these grounds alone can you be saved.
Do you believe that Jesus is God’s only begotten Son and that on the cross He bore our sins (see 1 Peter 2:24)? If so, then…
4. Call upon Him now to save you The sin question having been dealt with, God and the repentant, believing sinner are reconciled. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). He forgives us for Christ’s sake. God will not exact punishment for sin twice – first in a substitute and then in the sinner. When God forgives, He also chooses not to remember any longer. Their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more (Hebrews 8:12).
Once God has forgiven us, He changes us, starting with our innermost being. We are born again, Jesus said, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). Our old, sinful way of life no longer has the same appeal to us. We have new loves, new desires. We grow in love for God and for the things of God. And at the same time we grow to hate our own sinfulness.
If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Call on God now to save you, and do not rest until you know He has.
Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me (Psalm 50:15). Ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith the Lord (Jeremiah 29:13-14).
To heaven - how?
By good works?
How is anyone going to get to heaven? How are you going to get to heaven? So many people seem to think God is going to be pleased with them because they have done some good things. Let these people take a piece of paper and write on it the good works, the good things they think they have done, and say to God, "I qualify for heaven. I am good enough to come into your holy and glorious presence. Look how good I have been!" God's answer to that is found in the Bible (Isaiah 64:6): "We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade away like a lead, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away."
Sorry - no! Whatever we do is not enough to ensure our salvation and a home with God when we die. Whatever good we think we may have done will never atone for our sins.
By our church?
If anything could get a person to heaven - surely the answer must be in the church somewhere? Surely, if I go to church, to communion, to mass, to the priest... Sorry - no! The church will not ensure a person's eternal salvation, although a church that truly believes the Bible should be able to point the way to the be saved. Jesus did not say, "No one comes to the Father except through the church." He said, "No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).
The water of baptism cannot save a person, whether you are sprinkled by it or immersed in it. The bread and wine of the communion service cannot do it. Church ordinances cannot secure a person's salvation. Nor can money given to the church do it.
How then?
The Bible tells us how we can become Christians and inheritors of eternal glory. In Ephesians 2:8 we read, "For by grace you have been saved through faith." Grace is God's great and undeserved kindness to human beings. Despite our wicked disobedience to God and His laws, He offers us forgiveness of sins through His Son, Jesus Christ. God sent Him here, where He lived the only sinless life ever lived, and then died because God the Father was punishing Him for our sins. God expressed His kindness to us in Jesus. Belief in Jesus is the only way to get to Heaven. That is why Christians are so grateful to the Lord Jesus.
It is by grace - the undeserved kindness of God.
Through faith - faith in the Lord Jesus is to be our response.
Jesus Himself said that faith in Him is the only work that counts: "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent" (John 6:29).
It is only Christ Himself who saves sinners and gets them to Heaven. Has He saved you? If He has done, we would love to hear from you. If the Lord Jesus has not saved you and you would like further help, please contact the address below.
How is anyone going to get to heaven? How are you going to get to heaven? So many people seem to think God is going to be pleased with them because they have done some good things. Let these people take a piece of paper and write on it the good works, the good things they think they have done, and say to God, "I qualify for heaven. I am good enough to come into your holy and glorious presence. Look how good I have been!" God's answer to that is found in the Bible (Isaiah 64:6): "We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade away like a lead, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away."
Sorry - no! Whatever we do is not enough to ensure our salvation and a home with God when we die. Whatever good we think we may have done will never atone for our sins.
By our church?
If anything could get a person to heaven - surely the answer must be in the church somewhere? Surely, if I go to church, to communion, to mass, to the priest... Sorry - no! The church will not ensure a person's eternal salvation, although a church that truly believes the Bible should be able to point the way to the be saved. Jesus did not say, "No one comes to the Father except through the church." He said, "No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).
The water of baptism cannot save a person, whether you are sprinkled by it or immersed in it. The bread and wine of the communion service cannot do it. Church ordinances cannot secure a person's salvation. Nor can money given to the church do it.
How then?
The Bible tells us how we can become Christians and inheritors of eternal glory. In Ephesians 2:8 we read, "For by grace you have been saved through faith." Grace is God's great and undeserved kindness to human beings. Despite our wicked disobedience to God and His laws, He offers us forgiveness of sins through His Son, Jesus Christ. God sent Him here, where He lived the only sinless life ever lived, and then died because God the Father was punishing Him for our sins. God expressed His kindness to us in Jesus. Belief in Jesus is the only way to get to Heaven. That is why Christians are so grateful to the Lord Jesus.
It is by grace - the undeserved kindness of God.
Through faith - faith in the Lord Jesus is to be our response.
Jesus Himself said that faith in Him is the only work that counts: "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent" (John 6:29).
It is only Christ Himself who saves sinners and gets them to Heaven. Has He saved you? If He has done, we would love to hear from you. If the Lord Jesus has not saved you and you would like further help, please contact the address below.
What happens next?
You die. Then what?
“Nothing. When you’re dead that’s it.”
Are you sure? Travel anywhere in the world and you will find churches, mosques and temples. Belief in the afterlife is very widespread. And why do people fear death? That seems strange if death is simply the end of our conscious existence. The truth is, everyone knows in his or her heart that this life is not the only life that there is. Some people, of course, try to suppress that knowledge. Perhaps you are one of them. But whether we are willing to admit it or not, we really do know that beyond the grave there is a God to whom we must give account.
“I’ll come back. Death is followed by rebirth.”
Where’s the evidence for that? I know that some people claim to be able to recall events from their past lives – but is their testimony trustworthy? More trustworthy than that of the Son of God? Jesus didn’t teach reincarnation. His teaching was: “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.”
“I’ll go to heaven. We all do.”
Would you let everyone who knocked on your door come into your house? Of course not. The happiness of your home would soon be wrecked if you let thieves, child abusers and murderers into it. And the same applies to heaven. If God let everyone into his home it would quickly become just like this world – a mess. You have standards. So, too, does God – and very high ones. And those standards he has made known. Firstly, in the Ten Commandments, and secondly, in the teaching of Jesus. He said that we do not only fall short of God’s standard when we do wrong, but when we think it as well. From this it is clear that nobody deserves goes to heaven at all. And, certainly, nobody has an automatic right of entry. Those who go to heaven must first have their sins forgiven and experience an inner transformation that will make them want to do God’s will. That is why Jesus spoke so often about the need for a person to repent and be converted.
“Well, I won’t go to hell. There’s no such place.”
Hell wasn’t invented by the Church to keep people “in line”. It was the teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ himself. When he was here on earth, he often spoke on this subject and left his hearers in no doubt whatsoever as to its reality. Some people tell jokes about hell. But hell is no laughing matter. Jesus said that it was a place of burning, weeping and torment. He also emphasised that, since hell was meant to punish rather than reform, those who went there would never be let out. Most people, of course, could never imagine themselves going to hell. Perhaps you are one of them. You say, “I know I am not perfect, but I certainly don’t deserve to be punished forever.”
The problem is – you don’t see yourself as God sees you. If you did you would know that your sins are committed against a God of incomparable glory, splendour and righteousness, and that even your smallest sin deserves very severe punishment indeed.
“Who cares? I can’t do anything about it.”
What a strange attitude! You would prepare for exams and your wedding day. Why not prepare, then, for the most important day of your life – the day of your death? You need to prepare. Remember, there is a hell to be avoided, and a heaven to be gained. Have you ever wondered why Jesus came into the world? One reason was so that people like you and me could be prepared to stand before a holy God, without being consumed by his anger. That’s why he died upon a cross – as a sacrifice for sin. And that’s also why he said, “For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
“Nothing. When you’re dead that’s it.”
Are you sure? Travel anywhere in the world and you will find churches, mosques and temples. Belief in the afterlife is very widespread. And why do people fear death? That seems strange if death is simply the end of our conscious existence. The truth is, everyone knows in his or her heart that this life is not the only life that there is. Some people, of course, try to suppress that knowledge. Perhaps you are one of them. But whether we are willing to admit it or not, we really do know that beyond the grave there is a God to whom we must give account.
“I’ll come back. Death is followed by rebirth.”
Where’s the evidence for that? I know that some people claim to be able to recall events from their past lives – but is their testimony trustworthy? More trustworthy than that of the Son of God? Jesus didn’t teach reincarnation. His teaching was: “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.”
“I’ll go to heaven. We all do.”
Would you let everyone who knocked on your door come into your house? Of course not. The happiness of your home would soon be wrecked if you let thieves, child abusers and murderers into it. And the same applies to heaven. If God let everyone into his home it would quickly become just like this world – a mess. You have standards. So, too, does God – and very high ones. And those standards he has made known. Firstly, in the Ten Commandments, and secondly, in the teaching of Jesus. He said that we do not only fall short of God’s standard when we do wrong, but when we think it as well. From this it is clear that nobody deserves goes to heaven at all. And, certainly, nobody has an automatic right of entry. Those who go to heaven must first have their sins forgiven and experience an inner transformation that will make them want to do God’s will. That is why Jesus spoke so often about the need for a person to repent and be converted.
“Well, I won’t go to hell. There’s no such place.”
Hell wasn’t invented by the Church to keep people “in line”. It was the teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ himself. When he was here on earth, he often spoke on this subject and left his hearers in no doubt whatsoever as to its reality. Some people tell jokes about hell. But hell is no laughing matter. Jesus said that it was a place of burning, weeping and torment. He also emphasised that, since hell was meant to punish rather than reform, those who went there would never be let out. Most people, of course, could never imagine themselves going to hell. Perhaps you are one of them. You say, “I know I am not perfect, but I certainly don’t deserve to be punished forever.”
The problem is – you don’t see yourself as God sees you. If you did you would know that your sins are committed against a God of incomparable glory, splendour and righteousness, and that even your smallest sin deserves very severe punishment indeed.
“Who cares? I can’t do anything about it.”
What a strange attitude! You would prepare for exams and your wedding day. Why not prepare, then, for the most important day of your life – the day of your death? You need to prepare. Remember, there is a hell to be avoided, and a heaven to be gained. Have you ever wondered why Jesus came into the world? One reason was so that people like you and me could be prepared to stand before a holy God, without being consumed by his anger. That’s why he died upon a cross – as a sacrifice for sin. And that’s also why he said, “For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
You matter to God!
Who me?
Yes, you - whoever you are, whatever you have done.
Why?
Because God made you.
No, he didn't. My parents made me.
Of course your mum and dad brought you into this world, but they couldn't have done it without God.
Well, if God made me, and cares about me, how is it that I never see him?
Because we all disobey God. Ever since God created the first man and woman, we humans have wanted to run our lives our own way, taking no notice of what God tells us is the right way to live. That is what the Bible calls sin - rebellion against God.
God is a righteous judge and excuse sin. The penalty for even one sin is death and that penalty must be paid. We cannot be friends with God in this life if we allow sin in our hearts. Nor can we go to be with God in the next life if we have sin. So the result is separation from God, both in this life and in the next.
So it's hopeless then?...It would be except for one thing - a pardon. If another were to die in our place, to suffer the sentence of death in our place, then God could justly pardon us and set us free, as if we had not sinned. The Lord Jesus Christ, who never sinned and therefore did not deserve to die, died on a cross in the place of all who would believe in him.
Yes, God cares about mankind so much that he sent his Son, the Lord Jesus, into the world to die in the place of guilty sinners like you and me. Jesus became like us in every way, except that he never sinned - not even in his thoughts. So it was not for his own sin that he died, but for the sins of others - your own included, if you will repent of your sin and believe in him.
Christ's death is God's own way of satisfying his own justice. No other way will do. No other way will meet the requirements of God's holy law. Don't you think that if there had been some other way, God would have taken it - rather than to have his own Son suffer the penalty for the sins of others?
God loves the people he created and longs for them to be friends with him. He has promised to forgive all our sin if we will repent and put our trust in the Lord Jesus. We will then be able to know God with us in this life and to serve him forever in the next.
You do matter to God. He has shown this so clearly in providing a way for you to be made right with him. Repent of your sin now and stop trusting in yourself or in anyone else to save you. Put your faith in God's own Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. And do it now.
Yes, you - whoever you are, whatever you have done.
Why?
Because God made you.
No, he didn't. My parents made me.
Of course your mum and dad brought you into this world, but they couldn't have done it without God.
Well, if God made me, and cares about me, how is it that I never see him?
Because we all disobey God. Ever since God created the first man and woman, we humans have wanted to run our lives our own way, taking no notice of what God tells us is the right way to live. That is what the Bible calls sin - rebellion against God.
God is a righteous judge and excuse sin. The penalty for even one sin is death and that penalty must be paid. We cannot be friends with God in this life if we allow sin in our hearts. Nor can we go to be with God in the next life if we have sin. So the result is separation from God, both in this life and in the next.
So it's hopeless then?...It would be except for one thing - a pardon. If another were to die in our place, to suffer the sentence of death in our place, then God could justly pardon us and set us free, as if we had not sinned. The Lord Jesus Christ, who never sinned and therefore did not deserve to die, died on a cross in the place of all who would believe in him.
Yes, God cares about mankind so much that he sent his Son, the Lord Jesus, into the world to die in the place of guilty sinners like you and me. Jesus became like us in every way, except that he never sinned - not even in his thoughts. So it was not for his own sin that he died, but for the sins of others - your own included, if you will repent of your sin and believe in him.
Christ's death is God's own way of satisfying his own justice. No other way will do. No other way will meet the requirements of God's holy law. Don't you think that if there had been some other way, God would have taken it - rather than to have his own Son suffer the penalty for the sins of others?
God loves the people he created and longs for them to be friends with him. He has promised to forgive all our sin if we will repent and put our trust in the Lord Jesus. We will then be able to know God with us in this life and to serve him forever in the next.
You do matter to God. He has shown this so clearly in providing a way for you to be made right with him. Repent of your sin now and stop trusting in yourself or in anyone else to save you. Put your faith in God's own Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. And do it now.