Dear Roger, I've been a pastor for a decade. My church is growing. My spiritual life and my family is failing. I feel like I need to quit the ministry! Do you have any suggestions to survive the stress? Sincerely, A Tired Pastor Dear Tired Pastor, How do you survive in ministry? Let me tell you my story. The lessons I learned were hard-won, but I believe they helped me stay at the same church my whole ministry. 1. Get rid of your Messiah Complex. Behind the orange couch in our living room was as good a place as any to have a nervous breakdown. I phoned our head counselor and said, “It’s Saturday night and I am hiding behind the orange couch crying. This is not normal, is it?” “No,” he replied. “I’ve seen this coming for a long time and I’ve already made arrangements for you to talk to a Christian counselor. He’s waiting for your call.” As we sat for our third session Jerry said, “Today we are going to talk about your messiah complex.” “Messiah Complex! I don’t have a Messiah Complex!” “Don’t be so surprised. Most young ministers have one.” A Messiah Complex, for our purposes, has to do with a pastor’s misunderstanding of their dreams. They dream of a large successful ministry having accomplished great work for God. The extreme might reveal it self in thoughts like these: “God has called me to win this city for Christ!” A messiah complex may cause pastors to consider their call from Jesus so important that they are willing to sacrifice their spouses’ and children and health for the sake of the “call.” I discovered lurking within me was an enormous messiah complex. “I used to imagine that when I entered Heaven God would say something like this: “Oh Roger. I am so glad you are finally here! You did things that even Moses never did!” Was my complex pathetic, or what? I’ve worked to eliminate it from my life for over 35 years. Between you and me, I must be careful in saying this, but I think it is finally gone. By the way, about the age of 40-45 most pastors begin to see that their dreams just aren’t going to come true. How they handle this moment makes all the all the difference in the world. 2. Protect yourself. Jesus knew the importance of boundaries: “Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself” (John 6:15). The exhausted Jesus—tired from teaching, preaching and healing all day often withdrew to refresh, regroup and pray. The Rock Musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, includes a scene where the sick and dying are pushing and crowding around Jesus screaming, “Heal me” on and on and on. Then suddenly Jesus screamed back, “Leave me alone! Heal yourselves!” Immediately I thought, “Jesus never said that!” Then, I thought, but I wonder how often He felt like that?” Global Leadership Network talks often about the four gauges we must monitor: Emotional—Physical—Mental—Spiritual. When the “Check Engine” light brightens up the dash board, we don’t pull out a hammer and knock out the light. We find out what is wrong and fix it. Enough said. 3. Get your expectations in line with reality. Early in my ministry I was going to win the world to Jesus…. When that wasn’t happening I changed my focus to winning Tucson for Jesus. Soon, I saw that I couldn’t even win my street for Jesus We all have expectations that we intend to live up to. Like, “Today, I am going to visit patients in three different hospitals, spend four hours in sermon prep, have two counseling sessions and make fifteen calls to church members. The truth is, that will never happen—not enough time in the day. At seven o’clock, we are still working on our list when our spouse calls to see when (if) we are coming home. After all, she is tired from her work and has to make supper, feed the dogs, give the kids a bath, read them a story and tuck them in for the night. Can you imagine that she might need a little help! You feel frustrated. You only got to two hospitals; there was no time for sermon work; you only made 12 phone calls; and had to cancel one counseling session when the first ran way too long. Then, you had to go home and do family stuff that you never even put on your today list. No wonder you are frustrated. The distance between your expectations and reality is your frustration level. Stop trying to fix your frustration by working harder and faster. The key is to lower your expectations down to reality. The closer your expectations are to reality the less frustration you will have and you will be able to go home and bless your spouse and kids. 4. Spend more time with the energizers and less with drainers. Most people in our ministries are what I call neutrals. We know them by name and have casual conversations with them at church or in the community. They don’t really energize or drain us. Drainers, on the other hand, can suck the very life out of us. You go to their houses for dinner at 7:00 pm and three hours later you look at your watch and it’s really 7:35! You are in the presence of drainers. Energizers, on the other hand, bless us with companionship, encouragement, fun, and energy. You go to their houses for dinner and 35 minutes later you look at your watch and it is 11:25! Where did the time go? Your spouse says to you, as you get into the car, “Wow, that was a great night. I can hardly wait to be with them again!” You’ve just spent the evening with Energizers. Most pastors feel like the church people will get jealous if the pastor and spouse spend more time with one couple than another. Spend time with the neutrals and a little time with the drainers; but a significant amount of time with the energizers. I hate it when a drainer tries to dominate my time after church when I’m speaking to guests or trying to greet a number of people. I have a boundary in place that allows them three sentences before I break in and say, “Sandy, now is not a good time. I need to talk to some others, too.” I turn to the next person and go on. 5. Protect your Children. So, we were at a church pot luck dinner. My six-year-old daughter had eaten a cookie and she wanted another. She was reaching for a second when one of the church women pushed her hand away and said, “Don’t you know that we don’t want our pastor’s children to be fat.” Pastors’ kids have so little privacy. Too often they are sermon illustrations for an entire church to analyze. I was so excited the first time my three-year-old came to big church. She was sitting in the balcony with mom when I told a story on her from past week. I looked up and Brianna was gone. She was under the pew. As my daughters grew older we made a deal. Any sermon illustration about them must first be cleared with them. Then we bargained for how much the illustrations were worth. Was it a one dollar or three or five dollar illustration? Were we having three services or five? If she were lucky and the illustration was really good, she may come up with $5 times 5 services equals $25. I didn’t use those illustrations often. I couldn’t afford them! Pastors’ kids struggle with unfair or impossible expectations. Pastor’s Kids are forced ascetics. Pastors, as a general rule, don’t have much money. A youth pastor says to me, “My children’s friends all have the new King James sneakers (or Michael Jordan, or whom ever). All we can afford is a $10 pair of Bob Cousey’s.” Pastors’ kids struggle with the God issue. Many rebel. 32% never attend church again; 32% enter the ministry thinking that this is the only way that God (or dad or mom) will love me. How dysfunctional is that! They may associate God with their pastor father or mother who is never around. They conclude that God won’t be there when they need Him either. I could give many illustrations here! Pastors kids know that “quality time” is a myth created by parents who are way too busy. The only time that matters, that says, “love” to a child, is lots of time. I remember praying for my busy, overloaded ministry day for God to take care of my kids: “It’s only fair”, I said to Him, “I’m going to be busy with your work today so it’s not too much me to ask for You to take care of my children today.” I distinctly heard God answer: “Remember Eli and Samuel and David. They were busy taking care of My work while ignoring their children. If I did not rescue their children what makes you think that I am going to rescue yours? The only one who can fulfill the role of father to your children is you! And, if you don’t do it, no body else will do it either.” 6. Protect your spouse. Once upon a time I was interviewing a candidate for the position of worship pastor in our church. After asking him my questions, I turned my attention to his wife to see how she was handling ministry. After a moment she said to her husband: “Should I tell him?” “Yes.” She paused and tears came as she began to speak. It seems that the chairman of deacons was making sexual advances to her. Her husband told the pastor and he refused to deal with it because the deacon was so powerful, influential, and financially supportive. Now, she was weeping. I encouraged them to insist that their pastor deal with issue or for them to get out as soon as possible. No one needs to remain in that sort of dysfunctional system. The pain in their lives was incredible. Unfortunately, this pastor failed to face the issue straight on and get his wife to safety. Julie hardly fit the expected role of pastor’s wife as defined by many churches of the last generation. She is extraordinarily creative, talented, musical and brilliant. Steve Dowdle said to me “You had best set her free or you will have a very angry woman on your hands in twenty years.” I remember the Sunday when a senior adult couple accosted me to inform me that Julie had no business as a pastor’s wife returning to the University of Arizona to work on her doctorate in Choral Conducting. As they scolded I remembered when Jesus told John the Baptist that He needed to be baptized to “fulfill all righteousness.” Finally, it was my turn to speak. I said to them firmly, “the reason Julie is working on her doctorate is to “fulfill all righteousness.” They had no idea what I was talking about…… I didn’t either. I feel a divine calling from God to run interference and support her so that she can use and fulfill all he gifs and talents God has given her. She’s played keyboards with the high school rock band in her leopard skin pants. She has three post graduate degrees in music. She’s conducted church and community concerts, taught worship at seminaries, written a text book on orchestra and musical instruments and now leads the “preachitteachit web site with 8 million visits around the world. I’ve stood behind her every step of the way. Freeing the pastor’s spouse to fulfill their calling is critical in ministry survival. 7. Consider preaching expository sermons to maximize your time and effectiveness. Too often the harried pastor struggles to decide what to preach the next Sunday. May I suggest working through the Bible paragraph by paragraph? No time is wasted wondering, “What shall I preach?” You just preach the next several verses. There is nothing wrong with topical preaching. It has its place—it just tends to be “thin” over time. I have followed Charles Spurgeon’s preaching guidelines and the church has flourished and lived in relative peace. “People are like dogs,” he wrote. “If all you have to give them on Sunday is a few old bones then they will fight and scrap with each other. But, if you give them steak, they will lie down and sleep in peace” (Charles Spurgeon). I might add that the well-fed build strong and healthy bodies as well as functional churches. 8. Remember The Sabbath Day and take a nap. “If you have more than three ways people can get in touch with you, you are a really sick person,” said my pastor friend. Jesus didn’t live a harried life like most of us. And we don’t have to, either. He knew just what time it was and paced Himself to arrive there just on time. He walked for weeks and never the phone once. He got along just fine without it. He took long walking vacations like hiking two weeks to Tyre and Sidon. He still finished everything on His “to do list.” We tend to say, “Yeah, but that’s Jesus. Does God have an answer for us?”  You bet He does. The answer can be summed up in two words: “The Sabbath.” Fundamentally, Christ saw the Sabbath (and by extension, all of life) as being a day of restoration and connectedness with God. MARK 2:27 “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” This pronouncement has profound implications for us and for our society. The original purpose of the Sabbath was twofold. The Sabbath was for REST and for WORSHIP. Count up the verses. The idea of Rest is emphasized more than Worship. The idea is refreshment; recharge your batteries, rest for you, your animals, and your servants. Sometimes we think we can be like the Energizer Bunny—and just keep going and going and going. But, the bunny is a fraud. They have to keep putting new batteries in. We think we can just take 20 minutes every day at Starbucks and be fine – not. 9. Develop A Workable Plan. 1. Take A Full Twenty-Four Hours Off Every Seven Days. For most of us this means five days at our church, one day working at home to get all the chores done, and one day with no work whatsoever. God says we need to stop every six days for 24 solid hours. In ministry it is easy to cheat: “Well, I will begin my 24 hours after lunch on Thursday and get back in the office just before lunch on Friday.” That’s cheating. It should work like this: you go home on Wednesday evening and return to the office on Friday morning. That is a full day off. The Sabbath Is Not A Catch-Up Day For What’s Undone. The Sabbath is a Rest-Up Day For Everything Yet To Come. The Sabbath begins with the night’s rest and sleep. We rest in order to work. We must rid ourselves of the idea that we work hard and thus earn the right to rest. Bishop Gerald Kennedy of California’s Methodist church told of two groups crossing the plains during migrations to California during gold rush days. One group was led by a Christian who stopped every Lord’s day for worship and rest. The other party was led by a non Christian who was so motivated with gold fever that he refused to let his settlers stop and rest. After all, it was first come first served in gold fields. Is it surprising that that the wagon train that rested and worshipped every seventh day arrived first in the gold fields? 2. Limit yourself to no more than 45 to 50 recorded hours per week. Too many of us tend to be available 24-7 to the church members. It is tough to be on duty all the time. Studies show that very little profitable work occurs after 50 hours. The hours worked have to be recorded or we will tend to cheat. Let your church leaders keep you accountable. We’ve had to lock ministers out of their offices because they worked too much and their lives and families were suffering. 3. Schedule carefully so that you are at home at four nights per weeK. When we emphasized this requirement several of our pastors’ wives called to thank me: “Now I might get to have a real husband who has some time for me and the children”. 4. Use Compensation Days the next week when you worked more than the allotted days the previous week. The key here is balance. We all know that in the ministry not all weeks are equal. Christmas weeks are busier than summer weeks. Some weeks have too many funerals and marriage crises. So, to keep things in balance for a 50 hour schedule, if you have to work 55 hours this week (5 over the limit), then you only work 45 hours the next. 5. Arrange for a church leader to “cover” for you on your day off. Of course, some situations, like funerals may require your attention when a church leader just won’t do. 6. Get your deacons, elders or church leaders to approve the plan.   Most people are sensible. When they think about it, they want you to have time for yourself and family in order to survive and not burn out. Let them approve the plan and then you stick to it. Now, go to YouTube and search for the words, “Bob Newhart Stop it.” Then do what he says. I hope this is helpful. The goal is not just to survive but to thrive. Love, Roger

Dear Roger, Jesus said in John 10:10 that Satan has come to "kill, steal, and destroy." I take that to mean that under certain conditions, empowered by Satan, or one of his demons, people can be killed by witches or demons. Is that right?  Sincerely, Vincent Dear Vincent, I’d like to use part of your question and put John 10:10 about abundant living into proper perspective. Many people base the idea that Satan can kill people on John 10:10. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and life more abundant.” It seems obvious that the thief is Satan and that he can kill people. But this verse has very little to do with killing people. It has everything to do with abundant life. In the context of abundant life, Satan comes not to kill people, but to “kill, steal and destroy,” our abundant life. How does he do this? By keeping us from living in the present. David Ferguson from Great Commandment Ministries has a useful model. Imagine a straight, horizontal time line about two feet long. In your mind, put a small X in the middle of the line and we will call that point the “Present”. To the left of “Present,” imagine the word, “Past”, and to the right of the line imagine the word “Future”. We can only enjoy abundant life in the present. We might have enjoyed some abundant life in the past, but when we experienced it, that was our present. We may experience more abundant life somewhere out in the future, but when we do, that future time will be our present. If Satan can keep us bound up with worry, fear, and anxiety about the future, can you imagine that he just might have stolen our present abundant life? If Satan can keep us bound up with guilt, regret, hurt, anger and bitterness about our past, can you imagine that he just might have stolen away our present abundant life? The key to abundant living is to live in the present. Too many of us are ruining our abundant life by dragging our future into our present. Too many of us are ruining our abundant life dragging our past into our present. We have just destroyed our abundant life. While there are times when Satan may “kill, steal, and destroy” our abundant life, we are perfectly able of doing it to ourselves. David wrote in Psalm 131: “I have called and quieted my soul, like a child quieted at its mother’s breast, like a child that is quieted is my soul“ (RSV). David must have had many things in his past and future which could ruin his abundant life. But notice that his choice to stop the raging agonies of his mind was the key to his enjoying abundant life. So, Vincent, let me share with you some INTENTIONAL STRATEGIES THAT HELP US LIVE IN THE PRESENT AND THUS ENJOY ABUNDANT LIFE. 1. Take Every Thought Captive. Refuse To Let Your Mind Dwell On The Past Or The Future. “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). As far as I’m concerned, taking thoughts captive is the most important strategy of all. Personally, when I find myself struggling with the past and future, I say “switch” or “stop it” to capture the thought, thus regaining control and stymieing any profitable thoughts (just for fun, Google YouTube and search “Bob Newhart stop it”). 2. Focus On Biblical Passages Of Peace. “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34). “Rejoice in the Lord always. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7). “Fret not —it leads only to evil” (Psalm 37:8). “I’ve learned to be content in all things because Jesus Christ pours in the power” (RLB) (Philippians 4:10-13). Psalm 23 3. Try Biofeedback. I’ve met a number of Christians who think that using biofeedback demonstrates a lack of faith or dependence upon a secular endeavor instead of a spiritual one. However, from my perspective, biofeedback is simply a tool to help us control our thoughts. 4. Practice Quieting Your Mind. Even when you’re feeling great, practicing quieting your mind will strengthen you for your next bout. 5. Engage in spiritual warfare if needed. Jesus told us clearly that Satan is involved in this process. “Submit to God; resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against . . . the rulers of the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth . . .  the breastplate of righteousness . . . and the gospel of peace. "I n addition, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests” (Ephesians 6:10-18). 6. If Your Brain Is Hardwired For Anxiety Or Depression, Get Medical Attention. After all, if our blood pressure is high we our feel that there’s nothing wrong with taking blood pressure medicine. If we have a headache, we take aspirin. If our thyroid is not producing properly, we take thyroid medicine to help it. It’s no fun living in misery. 7. Consciously Plug Into The Life Of The Holy Spirit. “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). When we become Christians we are indwelt with the Holy Spirit himself. Walking in the Spirit, and being filled with the Spirit means living a pure and holy life and carefully following the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Well, Vincent, I wish I had more to say about witches killing people. However, I hope my tangential approach of using your question about John 10:10 in order to focus on abundant life will be helpful to you and others. Sincerely, Roger

Dear Roger, It’s common knowledge that a massive turning away from God will occur in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-6). I have been wondering if the Bible has anything to say about whether or not there will be betrayal of Christians preceding the second coming? Sincerely, Wondering Dear Wondering, Yes, the turning away of the entire world from God will be devastating! Unfortunately, most Christians don’t recognize that there will be a large-scale betrayal of Jesus by many Christians in the last days as well. Of course, many Christians will stay true to Jesus as evidenced by the martyrs described in Revelation chapter five. “Christian Apostates” are even now in our churches. They will become more manifest as we get closer to the end. Standing at the door step of the book of Revelation is the book of Jude. Jude is often called, The Acts of the Apostates. As such, we might say that Jude is the key that sets the stage for the entire Book of Revelation. “Apostate” is the Greek term for “falling away,” which describes those who start with Christ and then turn away for any number of reasons. FIRST, CHRISTIANS WHO FALL AWAY FROM CHRIST DON’T LIKE THE GOD OF THE BIBLE SO THEY MAKE UP A GOD THEY CAN LIKE.” The tendency is for every culture to make gods in their own image.  It has happened in America. American religion was founded upon the Puritan ideas of judgment, damnation and hell for sinners. Certainly, this concept has faded away in the Christian church in America. But let’s get more recent. Before World War Two and on in to the decade of the 40s, Jesus was the unquestioned divinity who was worshipped by the faithful. In the 1950s Jesus was seen as family oriented. He was the man in the gray flannelled suit who strived to make every person successful with a mix of psychology and religion. In the 1960s Jesus’ image was transformed into a long-haired, bearded young man—a radical who loved peace and not war. In the 1970s, the so-called, “me decade,” people turned inward to discover themselves and the image of Jesus is a faded picture. In the 80s Jesus was a conservative republican. In the 90s He was the sympathetic listener to everyone’s hurts and problems. From the year 2000 through the year 2018 Jesus has disappeared in a secular setting and become irrelevant to many. Allow me to make three observations about falling away from God today which is a small picture of what will happen in the end times. FIRST, ONCE WE CEASE TO BELIEVE IN THE GOD OF THE BIBLE, WE WILL FEEL FREE TO DESIGN A GOD OF OUR OWN CHOOSING.  Let me show you SOME APOSTATE THINKING which is creeping into American Christianity. Seventy-six percent of all Americans believe in Heaven, only fifteen percent believe in Jesus’ teaching about Hell (G. Barna). But Jesus said in Luke 16:23, “in hell, where the rich man was in torment.. . .” If a person is generally good or does enough good things for others during their lifetimes, they will earn a place in heaven. However, the Bible declares that no one is righteous in God’s eyes; salvation is by grace alone (Rom. 3:10, Acts 4:12). All people pray to the same god or spirit, no matter what name they use for that spiritual being. However, the Bible teaches that here is no other name under heaven whereby men may be saved (Acts 4:12). All people will experience the same outcome after death, regardless of their religious beliefs. However, the Biblical teaching is that only those who believe in Christ will be saved (Romans 3:21-26). Apostates make up their own custom-designed religions they perfect “cafeteria” or buffet spirituality. As they go down the “line” they pick and choose a little bit of what they want to believe from a number of sources. Everyone picks out the sweets.  No one wants the vegetables. SECOND, ONCE WE THINK THAT WE ARE FREE FROM GOD’S SCRUTINY, WE WILL FEEL FREE TO IGNORE HIS STANDARDS.” Several decades ago the US Supreme Court ordered the 10 Commandments out of the public schools. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court did not institute anything to replace them. Many cultures throughout history and even today have clear-cut ethics and values that they teach their children. Unfortunately we Americans have no set of agreed upon morals. We are reaping the whirlwind! In my opinion, we may need a new U.S. Constitution. The draftees of the Constitution had an underlying assumption that people would live and behave properly as long as they were accountable to a “higher being”. Our constitution is not designed to work well in a secular society where people are loosed to live with no ultimate accountability. THIRD, WE CANNOT LOWER GOD’S STANDARDS IN THE HOPE THAT IF THE TERMS ARE EASIER, MORE PEOPLE WILL COME TO CHRIST.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Lutheran pastor during World War II, who was martyred three days before the end of the war wrote, and I’ll paraphrase: “There is cheap grace and there is costly grace. Cheap grace is the kind of grace that costs the person nothing. It leads to hell. Costly grace, on the other hand, will cost a man/woman everything they have. Bonhoeffer wrote, “When Jesus calls a man or a woman, he bids them to come and die.” In the 1950s, the Canadian pastor, A.W. Tozer thanked America for its special gift to American Christianity. Again, I’ll paraphrase: “You’ve made “instant” a common word in American vernacular. You have given to us instant coffee, instant TV, instant radio, and instant dinners. You have now bequeathed to us instant Christianity whereby an individual can walk down an aisle, raise their hand, or repeat a short prayer and be left with the impression that he/she are saved and ready to meet God in heaven. The fact is, we’ve not shared the whole gospel until people know enough to reject it. WHAT ARE THE MANIFESTATIONS OF CHRISTIAN KILLERS IN TODAY’S CHURCHES WHICH WILL PROLIFERATE DURING THE LAST DAYS? JUDE SPELLS THESE OUT CAREFULLY IN HIS BIBLE BOOK. Christian Killers Are Grumblers. Christian Killers complain about the way God is caring for them. They imagine themselves to have a better plan than God. God hates this apostasy! The antidote to grumbling is to Recognize and Submit to God’s plan at work. Christian Killers are Fault-Finders. Whereas grumbling is directed against God, faultfinding is directed against His followers. Faultfinders usually start with one but they soon recruit others. The antidote to faultfinding is to encourage at least one person every day. Christian Killers change allegiance. Becoming a Christian means that a person changes allegiance, and decides to “follow the Lamb wherever he goes.” These men are going back on their initial commitment to Christ. They want to live their way instead of God’s way. So, they put away the God of the Bible and find another master to follow—themselves. The antidote to changing allegiance is total surrender to the Lord Jesus Christ. Christian Killers Proudly Set Themselves Up As Superior To Others. They portray themselves as being smarter, wiser and often privy to mysteries and knowledge that others don’t have. The antidote to personal boasting is to pray to see ourselves from God’s perspective. Christian Killers Flatter Others For Their Own Advantage. The most dangerous flatterer is the person who misleads about spiritual status, and tells lies about God because he wants to convert a new follower to his cause. Study God’s descriptions of the priests in Ezekiel 34:1-31 and in Malachi 2:1-9) to see how devious Christian Killers can be. In Summary, Christian Killers Choke The Spiritual Breath Out Of People.THE BIG QUESTION IS, “ARE CHRISTIAN KILLERS REALLY CHRISTIANS?” One option is that Christian killers are actually Christians who have salvation, turn their backs on Jesus, then fall away and lose it. This perspective would reject the idea that, “Once we’re saved we’re always saved.” Hebrews 6:1-4 is a confusing passage but often times used as evidence that it’s possible to fall away. It’s hard to be dogmatic about this passage, one way or the other; it states that once we fall away we cannot come back to Jesus. Who wants to say that? In addition, this passage reads as a fourth-class-conditional sentence in Greek. For example, I might say, “if I could be on the moon tonight, I would have a beautiful view of Earth.” That is true but, I can’t be on the moon tonight. In other words, “if I could fall away from Jesus, then I could lose my salvation. But the truth is, I cannot lose my salvation. Perhaps the simplest understanding, regarding the nature of Christian killers, is found in Matthew chapter 13 in the parable of the soils. Let me simply analyze this parable of Jesus. The Sower sows the gospel; it lands on hard sidewalk and the birds eat it up. These people never ate the gospel seed. They are certainly not Christians. Then the Sower cast seed on rocky ground, it took shallow root, but the hot sun burned it out. Then the Sower cast seed on weedy ground, unfortunately, the seat sprouted, but the cares of the world choked it out. Finally, the Sower cast seed on good ground. The seed took root, grew and produced much fruit. Sidewalk soil was eaten up by the birds and never even sprouted. These obviously are not Christians. The rocky and weedy soils both sprouted but died out and produced no fruit. The obvious question here is, “Do these soils represent people who started strong for Jesus and then fizzled out and fell away? Were they Christians or not? There is no doubt about the good soil. It grew and produced much fruit. These folks are obviously Christians. How do we know? Jesus said, “He/she that endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 10:22). Personally, I believe that Christian Killers were never Christians in the first place. Well wondering, I hope that I’ve helped to answer your question with information that may prove helpful. Sincerely, Roger

Dear Roger, Did Jesus think about having a sexual relationship? Sincerely, Fred Dear Fred, You have asked a rather controversial question—one that we don’t talk or think much about. Nevertheless, the answer to your question has great relevance in our world today. After all, Jesus was fully human and He experienced everything that we experience—including temptation. Otherwise, he could not have stood in our place on the cross. So, it is essential that we deal with this question. Did Jesus ever think about having a sexual relationship? My opinion is, of course, He thought about it. Like most men and boys, I imagine that He thought about it a lot. I have read that most adolescent males think about sex at least once every fifteen minutes, or so. Jesus was once an adolescent. Many Christians wonder just how close Jesus came to “eating the forbidden fruit.” This question really focuses on whether or not Jesus was capable of sinning. After all, He was God. Could God sin? At first blush, the obvious answer is, “No, God cannot sin.” However, the answer is a little more complex than a simple “yes”, or “no”. I believe that the biblical evidence declares that not only was Jesus tempted, He was fully capable of sinning. In Philippians 2:1-11 Paul composed a melodic poem describing Jesus’s seven steps downward from Heaven to become human and to endure the cross. Then, Paul described Christ’s seven-step exaltation from the resurrection back into Heaven to receive back His glory as fully God. In verse six Paul declared that in the process of abandoning Heaven, Jesus made Himself “nothing.” The Greek word “kenosis” literally means, “to empty one’s self”—but no one knows exactly what that really means. I think it is safe to say that somehow or other He emptied Himself of some of His “godness” in order to put on “humanness”. He remained 100% God, but also became 100% man. This God and Human union is called the “hypostatic union”. This doctrine is inscrutable. In other words, it is a mystery, incapable of being understood. I believe that “emptying” Himself opened the door so that He could actually sin (for a more extended interpretation of this concept, read my “Ask Roger Answer” entitled, “Son God or son of man?” on preachitteachit.com. In my mind, there is no way Jesus could fall into sin as fully God. Hypothetically, He certainly could fall into sin in as fully human. After all, if Jesus could not sin, why would Satan bother to tempt Him at the commencement of His earthly ministry (Matthew 4 and Luke 4)? Both gospel writers declared that temptation would follow Jesus all the days of His life; and, they were right. Furthermore, in describing Jesus’ ministry as our great high priest, the writer to the Hebrews revealed that Jesus endured every temptation (including sexual temptations) that we humans face—without sinning: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). The term, “yet without sin,” obviously meant that He was fully capable of falling into sin—but, He didn’t. We must remember that temptation itself is not sin. Martin Luther wrote, “You can’t keep the birds from flying over your head; but, you certainly can keep them from nesting in your hair.” Let’s look carefully at what Jesus taught about lust in light of Luther’s illustration. Jesus declared in Matthew 5:27-28: “You have heard it said, ‘do not commit adultery’. But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Looking at a man/woman and appreciating his/her beauty is not a sin. Perhaps even a moment’s imagining a sexual encounter is still not a sin. The sin occurs when we mentally and emotionally dwell upon one particular individual while imagining a drawn out sexual experience with him or her. In this case temptation has evolved into lust. The sin occurs in the long, drawn-out visualizing, not in the thought which comes to mind for a fleeting moment. Did Jesus think about having a sexual relationship? As fully human, He most certainly did. Both Satan and/or His own humanness obviously “flew the bird of the temptation” over His head. However, according to the Hebrews passage mentioned above, Jesus never allowed that bird “to nest in His hair”. Some imagine that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute who tempted Jesus to have a sexual relationship with her. For example, “The Last Temptation of Christ”, by Nikos Kazantzakis postulates that Mary Magdalene, “out of whom Jesus cast seven demons” (Luke 8:2), was His temptress, at least, and more probably, His girlfriend. I don’t believe that at all. However, I do believe that whatever lifestyle she lived before meeting Christ was dramatically changed by her spiritual encounter with Him. She became a devoted follower and financial contributor to His ministry who witnessed the crucifixion, prepared His body for burial and was the first to hear the good news of the resurrection! So far, we have discussed the idea of Jesus having a sinful sexual relationship. Without a doubt, He did not. Because Jesus was like us, I am certain that He experienced the internal, God-implanted-sexual drive to procreate and thus fulfill His Father’s command to be “fruitful and fill the whole earth.” Therefore, I believe that He must have considered marriage as a viable option. Dan Brown imagines, in his contemporary novel, “The “Da Vinci Code”, that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene and fathered children by her. He intertwines this concept with the legend of the “Holy Grail”. However, these claims have no basis in biblical truth. Could Jesus have married if He wanted? Could Jesus have had children if He had married? Some Christians answer “yes” to both questions. Personally, I have difficulty saying “yes” to either question. I believe that whatever Jesus thought about marriage or children—if He thought about it at all—was quickly dismissed. His mission was to “bring many sons to glory” (Hebrews 2:10), not to marry and procreate. Jesus made it clear that the “Son of Man came to seek and to save those who were Lost.” This God-inspired calling far outweighed the distraction and any possible fulfillment He might have gained from having His own wife and children. Would He have liked to be married? Possibly. Were marriage and children God’s will for His life? Certainly not. Well, Fred, thanks for asking such an intriguing question. I hope my answer gives several thought provoking and helpful insights to you and others about the sexual life of Jesus. Love, Roger

John 14:13-14 :  “And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” Some misapply this verse, thinking that “in Jesus’ name” is much like a magic formula. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Praying in Jesus’ name means praying with His authority and asking God the Father to act upon our prayers because we come in the name of His Son, Jesus. Praying in Jesus’ name means praying in line with the will of God ( 1 John 5:14-15 ). Praying and meditating through the names of Jesus enhance worship, promote spiritual growth, and deepen our intimacy with Jesus. There are some 200 names and titles of Christ found in the  Bible . I selected some of the more prominent ones as examples of how we may deepen our understanding and relationship with Jesus. When you are reading the Bible and come across one of Jesus’ names, pause for a moment and draw a mental image of Jesus enhancing that particular name. Then, personally interact with that name and be blessed. Jesus:  ( Matthew 1:21 ;  Luke 2:11 ;  John 6:35 ; 6:48) Picture yourself carrying a huge bag of sins. You’re stumbling, falling, thirsting, and growing weaker by the moment. Sin is mercilessly driving you down into the dirt. Then, Jesus approaches out of nowhere. Imagine him putting his arms around you and loving you. “If you’d like,” he says, “I’ll carry that big bag for you.” The relief is incredible. Sins are gone and a new life begins. Thank you, Jesus, for forgiving my sins and sacrificing your life on the cross for me. Bread:  ( Luke 4:8 ;  John 6:35 , 48) “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.”“Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never grow hungry.”’ He’s preached all day. It’s getting late. Imagine 5,000 hungry people with nothing to eat. Jesus says to his disciples, “Feed them.” Peter says, “But, there’s no grocery store in sight!” Andrew brings him five small pieces of bread and two small fish. Now watch carefully. Jesus rubs his hands together and a piece of bread appears. He rubs his hands again and more bread appears. Who planted the seeds? No one. Who watered the crops? Who harvested the grain? Who pounded out the flour? Who heated the oven? No one. How about the fish? Who caught the fish? No one. They were never caught. Who brought charcoal? No one. Jesus was creating a Galilean delicacy. These fish were about 5 inches long with a pickle-type relish for moisture. He’s not just creating fish. He’s making pickles! As bread sustains life in the flesh, Jesus is the Bread that sustains life in the spirit. Jesus, I’m hungry. Feed me. Ask Savior bread of life. Amen. King of kings and Lord of lords:  ( 1 Timothy 6:15 ;  Revelation 19:16 ) Imagine Jesus sitting on a throne surrounded by a host of people from all around the world. All are kneeling in submission to Jesus Christ. You kneel and declare with them: “Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the father.” Then, suddenly, Jesus is standing right with you. You exclaim: “I’ll never turn back, wherever you lead I’ll go.” Lord, make me a spiritual father or mother; I don’t care what it costs. Light of the World:  ( John 8:12 ) You enter Carlsbad caverns with your tour guide. Floodlights reveal multicolored stalactites and stalagmites hanging from the ceiling and growing from the ground. Drip, drip goes the water. “Do you want to see dark like you’ve never seen it before?” He turns off his flashlight. It’s so dark you can taste it.” He turns on his flashlight. Instinctively, you turn toward the light. It’s a dark world out there. Think about how he brought you into the light. Did it happen in a moment of decisive commitment? Or was your salvation a process that occurred over time? Some are still in darkness. Paul says that Satan has blinded the eyes of unbelievers so that they cannot see the glorious light. Think of a friend or two who need Jesus. Pray that the Holy Spirit opens the eyes of your friends so they can see the light. Thanks for bringing my friends and me into the Light. The Word of God:  ( John 1:1-4 ;  1 John 5:7-8 ) “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Through him all things were made; and without him nothing was made that has been made.” The Greek word, “logos,” is translated in English as, “word.” The “logos” is a Greek philosophical term referring to the “unrevealed wisdom of God.” Jesus is the word of God. John tells us that at a point in time, the unrevealed wisdom of God put on a body so he could dwell with us.” John also tells us that at a point before time Jesus created the universe. Pictured Jesus standing on the edge of nothingness and tossing 100 billion stars into existence. In addition, 1,000 billion planets now populate the universe. Lord, I praise you because with all the things you have going on today in the universe, you have time for me. Good Shepherd:  ( John 10:11 ,14) In Bible times, a good shepherd was willing to risk his own life to protect his sheep from predators. Jesus laid down His life for His sheep, and He cares for and nurtures and feeds us. “The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.”  David imagined himself to be a sheep looking up at his shepherd. Think of yourself as a little lamb looking up at your shepherd. He’s looking down at you with such love and compassion. Sheep need to be led, not driven. Think of Jesus the last time he took you through the valley of the shadow of death and all was well. Imagine yourself being secure in the arms of Jesus. But there’s more to your shepherd. Revelation shows us Jesus as a bleeding lamb slain on the altar for our sin. The Lord is my shepherd he’s all I want.

Dear Roger,  My friend is a faithful church attender, but she doesn’t believe the Bible is the Word of God. She believes it’s a good book with moral teachings. How was the Bible inspired? Sincerely,  Confused  Dear Confused, I’d like to show you that the Bible as we know it today is fully inspired and quite reliable as the Word of God. I’m convinced that there’s nothing more important for the Christian than a thorough comprehension and understanding of the Bible. You see, the Bible is our sole authority for living the Christian life. I remember talking with friend in college about salvation. He told me what he thought about God, his opinions, his worldview. I finally told him, “Look, I don’t care about your opinions! You’re not my authority. I want to know “what does the Bible say?” (I was much more tactful than that!) That’s what matters to me. People describe great feelings and experiences that have happened to them and then tell me they are from God. I can tell quickly whether or not they are from God. If their experience is not in accord with the Word, I am sure that their experience was not from God. The Bible is our standard: our standard for living, for determining whether an experience is from God or Satan; it’s our roadmap to heaven. Yet, how can I be sure that it’s really God’s Word and not just a collection of writings by a group of men over the years? The name “Bible” - simply means book. The Bible never calls itself the Bible. The word is used in MATTHEW 19:7: “Why then,” they asked, “did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?” NIV In LUKE 4:7, Satan tempts Christ and every time the Savior answers: And Satan said to Jesus, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to.  7  If you worship me, it will all be yours.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’ NIV Jesus was tempted by the Devil three times. Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 8:3; 6:13; Psalm 91: 11-12. Jesus responded to Satan every time with “It is written…” The name “Bible” is from Biblos - one of two places where papyrus grew. They made books from papyrus. How was the Bible inspired? What’s meant by “inspiration”? 2 PETER 1:21: 21  For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. NIV Although by human pen, the Bible is God’s message to man rather than a message of man to his fellow men. This is important because some say that Bible is nothing more than human writing. 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17: 16  All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,  17  so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. NIV The word “inspiration” here is the only time used in the Word of God. It literally means – “God breathed” - this verse indicates that Scripture is God-produced; however, it in no way indicates the means of God in producing it. I remember as a child, wondering how God spoke to New Testament writers to give them the Bible. Were they machines that God punched like a computer to write out exactly what He wanted as he dictated it to them? How did God actually inspire the Bible? Theories of Inspiration: 1  Dictation theory – This theory claims that the writers were simply stenographers. The writers were passive and just wrote down whatever God said. This has been the view of the Roman Catholic Church for centuries. The problem with this premise is - If God wrote it all by His dictation, then it should sound the same throughout Scripture.  When you read Isaiah, it doesn’t sound at all like Ezekiel, or Mark contrasted with John. It’s not the same style, vocabulary. Yet the authors injected their personal feelings, wishes and tone. Paul’s heartfelt prayer for Israel in Romans 9. Romans 9:1-3: I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying, my conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit—  2  I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.  3  For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own race,  4  the people of Israel.  NIV This impassioned prayer would lose its meaning if it were dictated by God. Nevertheless, some dictation did occur, as in the case of the Ten Commandments and the Law. 2  Partial Inspiration – This premise teaches that the Bible contains the Word of God: part from God and part from man (God inspires what can’t be known by natural means - i.e. creation accounts, some prophecy, etc.) The Bible has errors but communicates truth. 3  Naturalistic Inspiration – This tenet teaches that the writers of the Bible were no more inspired than were other men throughout history. They were no more inspired than Shakespeare or Milton was inspired. The Bible is just another book on religion - destroys all claim for divine authority. 4  Dynamic Inspiration - The truths come from God but He allowed the writer to use his own words and personality in communicating that truth. This explains the differences in style, (Mark 16:1-9; 9:20), individuality, expressed moods and fears, etc. In summary, concerning how God inspired the writing of the Bible: All Scripture is God-inspired and therefore is the sole authority for living. God superintended the writing but didn’t dictate it. He used human authors and their own individual styles. Well, Confused, I hope this helps.  Love,  Roger

Dear Roger, How do I explain to my five-year old why God lets people be poor and homeless? In other words, how do I explain suffering in the world to my five-year old? Sincerely, Cindy Dear Cindy, Let me give you a couple of thoughts to consider as you explain suffering to your children. 1. Admit that no one can fully answer the question of why God allows pain and suffering in the world as well as to the poor and homeless. The Bible describes this problem is one of God’s mysteries (Seven of God’s mysteries are mentioned in the Bible. Colossians 1:25-27 is one example). We trust by faith that he knows what he’s doing and that one day in heaven He will explain everything. 2. Explain that God weeps for those who are suffering. In Matthew 23:37, Jesus looked over the city of Jerusalem, considered all the suffering that was soon to come, and His heart broke. In John 11:35 Lazarus was dead and Jesus wept as he saw Lazarus’ friends and loved ones mourning His death. 3. Help your child understand that we live in a fallen world (Genesis 3:1-6) which is, at the moment, controlled by Satan (1 John 5:19). Satan is the one who initiates most of our pain and suffering (Job chapters one and two). Only time will tell why God allows Satan the freedom to bring destruction and pain to so many. You might describe the concept of “free will” and how God allows men and women the freedom to do good and/or bad. Satan and bad people cause much of the suffering in our world. Jesus will eventually judge them and bring justice for the pain they’ve caused others. 4. Explain how “hook rugs” portray gorgeous pictures and designs on the front side. However, all sorts of knots and strings are jumbled up on the back side. On earth, we see the backside of the rug with all the straggly pieces of convoluted yarn. God is looking at the front side of the rug. While we can’t always see what God is doing, we can trust that He is at work with a plan which will one day be revealed as embroidered beauty (Romans 8:28-29). 5. Encourage your child to know that at his second coming Jesus will bring justice and healing for all those who were abused and who suffered while living on the earth (Revelation 6:9-11 and 20:1-6). 6. Teach them that heaven is a wonderful place (Revelation 20:1- 6). Help them to understand that the ultimate healing from suffering is to die and be immediately with Jesus in heaven (Philippians 1:23-25). 7. Find opportunities for your child to interact with and to help those who are hurt and needy (2 Corinthians 1: 3-4). When our youngest daughter was in the fourth grade she and two friends went every Tuesday to the local nursing home. They talked with the patients, worked on crafts, and played games. Those Tuesday afternoon sessions helped to develop compassionate hearts in all three girls. Consider sponsoring a child through an organization like World Vision. Corresponding with a child in a third world country not only alleviates hunger, it provides a great learning experience while building a deeper understanding of those less fortunate than we. Once upon a time my daughter talked me into taking $10 to a homeless park downtown. “Okay,” she said, “take the money and help some people.” It took me a while, but I finally figured out that the best use of the money was to buy protein bars, baloney, bread, cheese, and mayonnaise and make sandwiches. We had enough for ten. Back at the park I proceeded to pass out sandwiches. “Don’t just give them a sandwich,” she said, “aren’t you going to sit down beside them and talk for a while. They’re not just hungry for food. They need some understanding and compassion. Most people are way too busy to take time for these folks.” I was very uncomfortable when I tried to engage some in conversation. These were not my type of people. I figured that we would be there 15 or 20 minutes—tops. Three hours later I had missed most of the football game on television. However, I wouldn’t exchange those two hours for anything. The next Sunday after church she did it again. With $10 in my pocket we headed down town to the park. No one was in sight. The temperature in Tucson was well over 110 degrees. No one was outside. I noticed a thrift shop down the street. I entered to help someone in need. The sole woman in the store was buying used clothes and broken toys for her two children. I watched her struggle with the thought of each purchase. “I’ll help her,” I thought, “I’ll buy those things for her.” I approached the register and said, “I’d like to buy those things for you.” She looked at me with angered indignation, “I don’t need your help or your sympathy. I have money. I’m a schoolteacher. I have a salary. Leave me alone” (schoolteachers don’t make much money). Outside, my daughter said, “You’re not very good at this, are you?” Imagine the impact an exercise like this can make on your child. Take time to teach your child how to pray for those who hurt. 8. Use John 3:16 to tie the sufferings of Jesus to the sufferings of world. Cindy, I know that you will add your own thoughts as you explain these “grown up issues” to your five-year old. I hope that my thoughts help you start out in the right direction. Sincerely, Roger

I have a number of letters each week from people around the world who are contemplating suicide. Here are a few thoughts that might help you in dealing with someone struggling to survive. Dear …. I’m so sorry for what you’re enduring. Life is miserable now and I know that you are hurting deeply. I’m so sorry. I imagine you’re feeling overwhelmed and scared. Maybe you feel trapped. Perhaps you’re grieving because nobody cares? Maybe you’ve been betrayed? Has someone hurt you? Perhaps you’ve lost your job and run out of money? Is your body racked with pain? I’m so sorry. The list goes on and sometimes you feel that no one understands or even cares. I am so sorry. I’d like to speak with you tenderly and gently because I know how difficult life is right now. You’ve been through a lot. Fortunately, there is a God in heaven who can pour in the power to help you through these difficult moments. By the way, I know that it took courage to write me. But, I’m safe; I'll not share your situation with anyone. I would like to share with you a couple of responses that I received from people who were struggling with the same issues as you. Hopefully, these emails will comfort and encourage you. Dear Pastor, Thank you for the suicide article.  I've been feeling very depressed lately and overwhelmed with a lot of problems.  I've been thinking about suicide a lot lately.  I googled suicide methods and your article popped up. I read it and I never considered that God still has a plan for me here on earth. Who am I to interrupt that? I am going to search for a counselor and continue to pray for strength and healing. I just wanted you to know that your article was a ray of light in my time of darkness. Thank you again and God bless you. Stephanie Dear Pastor, I was so sad before I read what you wrote, I have never saw God in a way like that before thank you so much I am still struggling but when I am I will pray. You made my frown turn upside down, now that I just read what you wrote now I don't wanna die. But thank you so much, I'll keep you in my prayers. (unsigned)   I’ve found that many suicidal people are clinically depressed. They often have a chemical imbalance, or, on the other hand, they are in situations which are depressing. Let me suggest that you see a medical doctor. He or she may have some medicines which can give you relief. Now is a good time to talk with a trusted friend, counselor, or person in authority who can help. I’m praying for Jesus to send you someone special. I’ll share several thoughts that might help. 1. It’s Not Wise To Enter The Heavenly Throne Room Before Our Scheduled Time. I’ve imagined Jesus saying: "Roger, what are you doing here? I'm not scheduled to see you for another 20 years? I still had some things I wanted for you and to do with you." We really don’t want to go before our time. 2. We Don’t Make Good Decisions When We Are Depressed. Thinking about suicide turns your whole life upside down. Worst decisions seem like the best decisions. Life looks hopeless while we have on gray-colored glasses. God has placed rose-colored glasses nearby. With a little looking, we may find a pair that fits. 3. The Bible Says That God Loves Us And Has A Wonderful Plan For Our Lives. “You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had past” (Psalm 139). Sometimes we get off the right path and stumble along the wrong one. Jesus wants to help us return to plan “A”. God has better plans for you than taking your life. He has promised to help you get through this. 4. No Matter How Dark Your Life Seems, There Is No Place You Can Go Where God Is Not Near. Jesus says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). The Bible says that Jesus holds us in the palm of his right hand. The Bible says that Jesus is like a mother hen who shelters her chicks with her wings. Jesus has you sheltered and protected. Even now you rest in the palm of his hand. 5. Jesus says that we are of great value. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). Imagine yourself as a little child snuggled up in the arms of Jesus. Is that helpful or not! 6. When We Look Around, We Will Discover People Who Would Love To Comfort Us In The Midst Of Our Pain. One day, I went next door to Pete's house and asked him to listen while I poured out my heart and told him about my struggles. I asked him to pat me on the shoulder and just say, "I am so sorry that you are hurting. It grieves me that you are in so much pain…" He said, “I’d be glad to do that.” So he did. For the next hour he prayed for me and comforted my hurts and encouraged me greatly. “Come over anytime. I’m glad to help,” he said. Church is a great place to find understanding and comforting people. 7. Prayer Changes Things. Jesus said, “Ask and you will be given what you ask for. Seek and you’ll find. Knock and the door will be opened for you” (Matthew 7:7). Go ahead right now. Ask Jesus to help you find victory and relief. It may take a while but he promises healing as he answers your prayer. 8 The Bible Never Says That God Promises To Solve All Of Our Problems. What He Promises Is To Pour In The Grace And Power To Live Victoriously In The Midst Of Our Problems. The apostle Paul wrote 13 Bible books. He knew what it’s like to suffer. In his journeys for Jesus he was scourged with whips three times, beaten five times with iron rods, stoned with rocks and left for dead, ridiculed by the Athenian elders and spent at least four years in jail. One night he was so depressed that he wanted to die. He overcame it all through the power of Jesus Christ. Jesus said, and I paraphrase, “If I can do that for Paul, I can do it for you.” Here’s Paul secret: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” I know that these are difficult times; however, you are learning contentment and how to access the life and power of Christ. The Ultimate Goal Is To Get You Thinking Better So That You Can Enjoy Your Life, Your Work And Your Relationships. Now is the time to make a determined decision to seek help. There are friends, counselors, medical and psychological professionals who can help get you back up on your feet. Also, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available to help immediately at 1-800-273-8255. Please let me know how you're doing. I will contact you every day or so. I want you to know that you are not alone. Now, let me pray for you. Dear Heavenly Father, Your child needs help. I know that your heart is breaking as you see the pain and hopelessness. You are just the one who can sort out the problems and pour in the power for victory. Please bring comfort from all the pain. Give hope that all will one day be okay. Give clear-cut direction, and success, in living through and fixing the difficulties. Provide some Christian friends who love and care. Help pick up the pieces and rebuild a life of hope and prosperity. Amen

Dear Roger, I’m scared for my brother. He’s turned his back on Christianity. All of us kids grew up in church and got baptized when we were children. Mom and dad took us to church every Sunday and we received great Christian training. Now he criticizes Christianity and says that he doesn’t believe in it anymore. I was doing a Bible study to see if he committed the unpardonable sin and I came across Hebrews 6:4-6 which says that if you are a Christian and reject Jesus, then you never can come back and be saved again. Does this mean that he can’t come back to Christ even if he wants to? From Anxiously Awaiting Your Answer Dear Anxiously Awaiting, I’m scared for your brother, too. This is a frightening passage with far-reaching implications. "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit,who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming ageand who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace” (Hebrews 6:4-6). Much discussion has centered around the proper interpretation of this passage. I’ll try to make it simple. Of course, no one seems to have the final say about exactly what the writer to the Hebrews met. However, I hope my thoughts clarify some of the issues for you Let me give you the bottom line and then delve into the interpretation. 1. This book is called Hebrews because it was written to the Jews. The people described in the passage were Hebrews who were attracted to Christianity. They almost committed their lives to Jesus Christ as their Lord Savior. Unfortunately, they turned their backs on Jesus without making a commitment. They “fell away” (the Greek word is “apostasy”). 2. What does it mean that they cannot be brought to repentance after falling away from Christ? 3. Sorting through complex Greek conditional sentences, if true Christians commit apostasy, then once they are lost, they are always lost. They can’t repent and return to Christ. But the fact is, true Christians can never commit apostasy. 4. The issue in the early church was whether or not those who crumbled under persecution and committed apostasy by denying Christ could return to the church or not? 5. What does this passage imply for us today? FIRST, How Do We Know That These People Who Fell Away, And Committed Apostasy Were Not Christians? It’s quite clear that these people experienced much of real Christianity, but they personally never truly gave their hearts to Christ. They had five great advantages; yet, they eventually exposed themselves as not Christians. • “They once were enlightened” but were no more (Numbers 24:4). • “They tasted the heavenly gift” (eternal life), but never swallowed it. This is a key revelation. The gift of God is not given to tasters. In John 6:50-56 Jesus said: “except you eat my flesh, and drink my blood, you have no part of me.” Jesus was talking about total commitment. Tasters just taste; there is no swallowing commitment (Matthew 13:20-21). Wine tasters sniff, look at, and swirl wine in a glass. They choose whether or not to actually drink it. There is no commitment until they actually swallow. • “They have shared in (tasted) the Holy Spirit.” Unfortunately, they were not sealed (Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:31). • “They have tasted the goodness of the word of God.” These people cannot say with Jeremiah, “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight.” Jesus said in John 6:46: “Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and not do what I say.” • “They had tasted the powers of the coming age.” Many were personal witnesses of the miracles of Christ. However, they were without excuse because convincing evidence was set before them with no answering faith in their hearts. SECOND, What Does It Mean That They Cannot Repent And Return To Christ After Falling Away? Understanding this statement means that we we consider the major theme of Hebrews. Again and again the writer points out that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross trumps all the sacrifices of Mosaic Law. If you turn away from Jesus then you have no place else to go. Returning to Judaism will do you no good because Jesus’ sacrifice to forgive our sins is the only way to find forgiveness and entrance into heaven. For example: 11  But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, . . . 12  He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. 13  The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. 14  How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, . . . . (Hebrews 9:11-14) In other words, if you don’t want Jesus, there’s no place else to turn. THIRD, If Christians Could Commit Apostasy, They Could Never Return To Christ Because They’ve Put Him To Open Shame. But The Truth Is, True Christians Will Not Commit Apostasy. Regarding Christians, the writer to the Hebrews is not declaring, "Once lost, always lost." He is affirming just the opposite, "Once saved, always saved." The writer is utilizing a mix of Greek conditional statements. Conditional statements come in four basic manifestations. A 1st class conditional statement is without a doubt, true. For example, Satan said to Jesus, "If you are the Son of God..." You could also translate this "Since you are the Son of God..." In a first class conditional statement the differences between "if" and "since" are slight. Basically, a third class statement is true, but it can never happen. For example, if I could go to the moon tonight, I would have a lovely view of earth. Now, that is true, but it could never happen. I can't get to the moon tonight. Hebrews 6:4-6 is understood like this. If I were to fall away from Jesus, then I could never return; but, the truth is, I can't fall away from Jesus. The writer is making a point of just how horrible it would be if a Christian fell away and committed apostasy. Jesus would have to be crucified all over again just for them. But, since they can't fall away, Jesus does not have to suffer and die again on the cross. Such is the height, depth and width of the love and grace of God (Ephesians 3:14-19). FOURTH, One Of The Big Controversies Among The Early Church Christians Was What To Do With Believers Who Committed Apostasy While Under Intense Persecution And Torture. While Julie and I were teaching pastors in the Ukraine we heard several stories about secret Christian meetings interrupted by the entrance of soldiers whose job it was to ferret out Christians and put them to death. During one meeting secret policeman broke into the room and announced that they were there to kill all the Christians. However, in a moment of grace, one of the secret policemen said that anyone who wanted to leave could do so. Several got up and left. “Comrades, we are Christians, too. We just wanted to make sure we would be safe in here.” One of the critical problems facing Christians in the early centuries was the Roman insistence on emperor worship to solidify Caesar’s control of the Empire. Each year everyone in the Empire was required to bow before an altar, burn a pinch of incense and declare, "Caesar is Lord." Confessing "Caesar is Lord" was anathema to Christians. Many refused to comply and died with the words, "Jesus is Lord" on their lips. But, what about those who acquiesced? Were they Christians or not? Some wanted to forgive them and welcome them back into the church. Others wanted to deny them reentrance on the grounds that real Christians would never turn their backs on Jesus. Thankfully, once our Heavenly Father bestows on us the gift of salvation, nothing that we could do in the future would so surprise Him that he would cause Him to take it back. FIFTH, Implications For Us Are Far-Reaching. We must do all we can to assure that we ourselves and those we love are fully committed to Jesus Christ. If we have not Jesus then there’s no place else for us to go for forgiveness and eternal life. Unfortunately, it seems that some people could not come to Christ even if they wanted. One afternoon I visited a 78-year-old man in the hospital. His Christian family had shared the gospel with him for many years – always with a negative response. They pleaded with me to go and try one more time. He was sitting on the edge of is bed as I frankly told him why I was there. Out of politeness he allowed me to share with you the gospel. When I finished, I was deeply saddened by his sorrowful reply: “I’ve said ‘no’ to Jesus so many times that I don’t think I could become a Christian even if I wanted to.” This is why the writer to the Hebrews pleaded again and again with his readers, “Today! While it is still today! Give your heart to Jesus while there’s still time.” Finally, if someone who seems to be a Christian falls away, then that proves that they were never a Christian in the first place. Well, Anxiously Awaiting, I hope that my thoughts give you guidance about how now to proceed. I know that the one burning desire of my heart is to see my loved ones in heaven, too! Love, Roger

Dear Roger, I am a high school senior and I got into a discussion about Jesus with my best friend. She is not a Christian and I’ve been trying hard to live a Christian life that might attract her to Jesus. We recently got into a somewhat heated discussion which closed with her saying, “No one knows if Jesus Christ even existed!”So I’d like to know, is there any evidence for the existence of Jesus besides what we have in the Bible? Sincerely, Britni Dear Britni, Fortunately, we don’t have to put up with your best friend’s challenge nor with the many who today deny the real existence of Jesus. Many secular, archaeological and historical references to Jesus from outside the Bible prove that Jesus was a real person who lived in the first century A.D. Josephus, the Jewish historian, who was governor in Galilee in 66 A.D., wrote a history of the Jews from Adam through the time of Nero. His book was called the “Antiquities of the Jews”. He mentioned three references to Jesus including one about Jesus’ relationship with his brother James who was put to by the Sanhedrin. The Jewish “Talmud” contains eight references to Jesus Christ. All are designed to discredit him. For example, one refers to the hanging of Jesus and mentions his practice of sorcery. Another ridicules the virgin birth and claims that Mary and a Roman soldier were his birth parents. Both first century Roman historians, Tacitus and Suetonius make references to Christ and to his followers. Tacitus reports Nero’s persecutions and mentions that Christ was executed very the reign of Tiberius by the procurator Pontius Pilate. Suetonius mentioned the expulsion from Rome of the who caused a great tumult under the influence of Christ. The Roman Emperor, Trajan and Pliny the Younger, the governor of Asia, corresponded regarding how to handle the followers of Christ in judicial trials, including the execution of two courageous women who were leaders of the group. Hundreds of second century documents refer to, or are written, about Jesus. The “Apocryphal New Testament” consists of many false Gospels, false Acts and pseudo letters which were written to espouse theological Gnosticism. According to Gnosticism, Christ was one of many spirit beings who sprang forth from God and Sophia. These spirit beings brought salvation by special knowledge only to the spiritually elite. Gnostics elements are still found today among numerous religious groups. The “Pseudepigrapha” was written to give credence to Gnostic Beliefs. These false writings from the second through the fourth centuries contain stories like Jesus having a wife and children. What Did Jesus Look Like! “The Suffering Servant” (Isaiah 52:14; 53:2) “The fairest of the sons of men” (Psalm 45:2)! The Letter of Lentulus The “Letter of Lentulus” was supposedly written from the Governor of the Jerusalem to the Roman Senate giving a physical description of Jesus Christ. It dates back to the second century A.D. and is obviously a forgery. Nevertheless, there’s a good chance that it contains a reflection of his real “appearance”. There has appeared in our times, and there still lives, a man of great power (virtue), called Jesus Christ. The people call him prophet of truth; his disciples, son of God. He raises the dead, and heals infirmities. He is a man of medium size; he has a venerable aspect, and his beholders can both fear and love him. His hair is the color of the ripe hazel-nut, straight down to the ears, but below the ears wavy and curled, with a bluish and bright reflection, flowing over his shoulders. It is parted in two on the top of the head, after the pattern of the Nazarenes . His brow is smooth and very cheerful with a face without wrinkle or spot, embellished by a slightly reddish complexion. His nose and mouth are faultless. His beard is abundant, of the color of his hair, not long, but divided at the chin. His aspect is simple and mature; his eyes are changeable and bright. He is terrible in his reprimands, sweet and amiable in his admonitions, cheerful without loss of gravity. He was never be in known to laugh, but often to weep. His stature is straight, his hands and arms beautiful to behold. His conversation is grave, infrequent, and modest. He is the most beautiful among the children of men. Augustine wrote: “We are utterly ignorant of the earthly appearance of Christ.” THE FOUR GOSPELS PROVIDE OUR BEST SOURCE FOR LEARNING ABOUT THE LIFE OF CHRIST. Think about it, there are only five extant copies of the Iliad and yet nobody claims that they are not a reflection of historical facts. On the other hand, there are over 3, 500 extant copies of the New Testament from the first century, and yet many refuse to believe that the Gospels are accurate history. Most history books are accurate until they are proven otherwise. Many are convinced that the Bible is basically wrong until it is proven to be right at every point. Fortunately, the biblical records have been historically an archaeologically verified at point after point after point. The word “Gospel” means “Good News”. The good news is that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. The penalty for sin is spiritual death. Jesus took our punishment for our sins on the cross and all who received him at his work on the cross will have forgiveness of their sins in a place reserved in heaven for eternity. The gospels are not biographies. We basically know nothing about Jesus’ first thirty years. The gospel writers give only enough information to prepare us for Christ’s death and resurrection --and the significance of both. The Gospels are not really objective. They are written to convince others (John 20:30-31). Why four Gospels? “Out of the mouths of two or three witnesses everything should be established.” The Gospels are not written in chronological order. Each gospel writer organized his material with a plan in mind, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, for best presenting the “good news” about Jesus. It is fair to say that the gospel writers were inspired, that means breathed upon, by the Holy Spirit, who did not dictate the Gospels, but allowed the writers to interact with the Holy Spirit and recorded just exactly what God wanted to have recorded. The Holy Spirit guided and superintended the writings (John 14:16-17 and 15:26-27 and 16:13). HOW DID THE GOSPEL WRITERS COME TO WRITE THE GOSPELS? The Gospels Are Divided Into Two Main Divisions. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called “the Synoptics” which means “to see together.” John stands alone, it is unlike all the others. About 60 A.D. Mark decided to write down his version of the life of Christ. Peter (Acts 10:37-42): Mark is an outline of Peter’s sermon to Cornelius. Papias (130 A.D.): “Mark is a copy of one of Peter’s sermons.” Irenaeus (180 A.D.): “Mark transmitted to us in writing the things that Peter preached.” By the way, Mark puts his signature on the book in Mark 14:51-52. About five years later, 65 A.D. Matthew used at least five sources to compose his gospel: The Holy Spirit The Gospel of Mark A collection the sayings and teachings of Jesus called Q (Q is French for source” and is only postulated.) This is material is included almost identically in both Matthew and Luke and is not found in Mark nor John. The birth narratives from Joseph’s side of the family. Matthew’s own personal experiences with Jesus (most of which appear in no other gospel). About 65 A.D. Luke used five major sources to compose his gospel: The Holy Spirit The Gospel of Mark A collection of Jesus sayings and teachings called Q The birth narratives from Mary’s side of the family Research from those who met Jesus personally About 95 A.D. John obviously had read Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he decided to fill in the gaps. John assumes that the reader has read Matthew, Mark, and Luke. He selects eight miraculous signs— most are not included in the other Gospels— to present Jesus Christ as God The four Gospels give us for different views of the life of Jesus. Several snapshots help present a unified picture of Christ. MATTHEW PRESENTS JESUS CHRIST AS A KING. Matthew was a Roman tax collector who was interested in the power and authority of Rome. He began his gospel with a boring but quite significant genealogy that established Jesus Christ’s royal lineage. Genealogy begins with Abraham and traces backward to Joseph. He presents the birth story from Joseph’s point of view and emphasizes wise men, gifts, worship and houses — the kind of things that kings are interested in. He alone presented five sets of all discourse and teaching describing how to live in the kingdom. He announced the great commission to his followers in the same way that a king would give orders (Matthew 28:19-20) to his subjects. Matthew target was Jewish Hebrews.. MARK PRESENTS JESUS CHRIST AS A SERVANT. “The son of man came to serve” (Mark 10:45). Mark has no genealogy. Mark has no birth story. Who cares about the ancestry of a servant? The book just begins. The key word is “immediately” as the servant moves rapidly from one task to the next. There is little interpretation or discourse. Jesus’ actions and miracles simply speak for themselves. Mark’s target was the Romans who were interested in movement, activity and getting things done. LUKE PRESENTS JESUS CHRIST AS A MAN. Luke was a Gentile physician born in Greece. He then had a heart for people in need. The book has a special emphasis on women and children. He tells the birth story from Mary’s side of life by mentioning things that she would be interested in— like shepherds, mangers, baby clothes, singing and angels. Luke’s genealogy is from the human side of Jesus. It traces from Mary back to Adam. He never knew or met Jesus. It’s obvious that some of the material in Luke was the result of his talking to others who knew Jesus. The Good Samaritan is unique to Luke. The stories of the lost sheep and coin are unique to Luke. He includes a long section on Jesus’ concern for, and time taken, to expound the truth of the resurrection to two wondering disciples on the road to Emmaus. Lou is the first volume of a two-volume work known as “Luke and Acts”. His special target was a man named “Theophilus” which means “God Lover” (Luke 1:1-4 and Acts 1:1-6). JOHN PRESENTS JESUS CHRIST AS GOD. John has no genealogy because God doesn’t have one. He left his signature as “the one Jesus loved” in John 13:22-25. He selected eight there signs to prove that Jesus Christ was God.. John included long discourses and teachings given by Jesus-- most of which are not included in the other Gospels. He laid the groundwork for basic Christian doctrine. The Gospel, The Story Of The Life Of Christ Is A Singular Message—Yet Each Individual Gospel Presents A Decidedly Different Aspect Of Jesus Christ As Revealed In Ezekiel And Revelation. Ezekiel 1:10: “Their faces looked like this: Each of the four had the face of a man, and on the right side each had the face of a lion, and on the left the face of an ox; each also had the face of an eagle.” Revelation 4:6-7: “… around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. he first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Britni, I know that I answered more questions than you asked. Nevertheless, I hope that you find my answer helpful, fascinating, informative and encouraging. Love, Roger

Dear the many who’ve asked me to address the issue of civil disobedience, Once upon a time I walked the picket line holding a poster of a bloody, “fetus” that had been killed by an abortionist. I wanted to carry the picture poster of the little girl who was floating inside mommy’s womb, sucking on her finger. But they gave me the shocking one. They told me to stand by the curb and hold it prominently so that passing motorists would be certain to see it. My poster engendered a few “thumbs up” but most took one look, scowled, and said bad words at me as they passed. At least I assumed that they were bad words—I’m not good at reading lips. However, the middle-finger salutes were easy to interpret. I was in a group of 200 or so encircling an abortion clinic, being careful not to come closer than one hundred feet as required by law. The police were there to maintain order. A number of women had abortion appointments that morning. Some looked at the picketers and left. Others held their heads down and crossed the line fully intending to terminate the child growing within. I had no trouble justifying my marching in protest. God told me to do it. He said, "Rescue those being led away to death. hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this,”does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done? (Proverb 24:11-12) Many of our church pastors and congregants were marching that day. We felt empowered and unified as we fulfilled our duty to God and to those being led off to slaughter. Then, commotion ahead!!! Some of the picketers were crossing the line and were immediately arrested and led off to jail! There was Bill, one of my closest associates handcuffed, being led to a police car. This was civil disobedience in action. It was one thing to legally picket against a law that we considered immoral. It was another thing to break a law. Bill didn’t do too well spending two nights in the “tank.” He’d struggled his whole life with claustrophobia. No joke, his eyes were still wide open and darting in fear a full day after his release. In a sense Bill’s worth and reputation soared several notches as I explained to our congregation why Bill was in jail. As I see it, our government is becoming less and less godly. Taxes are used for social engineering. Too many pro abortion laws are still on the books. It is illegal to mention Jesus in schools. A high school valedictorian is denied her free speech rights and told she cannot even mention the name of Jesus in her speech. We are entering wars many protest as immoral and yet the government fights on. Civil disobedience may soon be a choice we’re all forced to face. My eighth grade daughter and her best friend were forbidden to sing their favorite Jesus song at the school talent show. We protested to no avail. They sang the song any way and replaced the name “Jesus” with humming and a finger pointed toward God in His Heaven! Everyone knew just what was going on! Jesus got a lot of glory and honor that night. At what point do we Christians draw a line in the sand and disobey a law that we consider to be immoral or against the laws of God? Let me make this perfectly clear: Disobedience of civil authority is justified when that authority requires us to disobey God. "When civil law and God's law are in opposition, the teaching of the Bible sanctions, if not obligates the believer to protest or disobey" (Charles Byre). Martin Niemöller (January 14, 1892-March 6, 1984) was a German anti- Nazi theologian and Lutheran pastor who was an early supporter of Adolph Hitler’s conservative Nazi regime. His attitude changed dramatically as witnessed the increasing horror and murderous intention of the Nazi hierarchy. He was jailed for his opposition. He is best known for his statement: First they came for the communists , and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a communist.Then they came for the socialists , and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a socialist.Then they came for the trade unionists , and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a trade unionist. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak for me. Martin Niemoeller was arrested in Nazi Germany for preaching the truth. Another minister visited him and remarked that if he would keep silent about certain subjects and respect the government, he would be set free. "And so," continued the visitor, "Why are you in jail?" Niemoeller replied, "Why aren't you in jail?" This is the story of Peter and the disciples when they were forbidden by the Jewish religious leaders to preach about Jesus. Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. "We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name," he said. "Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood."Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men! ( Acts 5:27-6:1). Continuing to preach was civil disobedience in action . As I put together so many of the biblical verses that have to do with civil disobedience, (for example, 1 Peter 2:13-14; Titus 3:1; Daniel 3:1-30 and 6:1-28; Exodus 1:15-22; Hebrews 13:17; and Romans 13:1-8), I quickly conclude that there is no one passage that gives the Biblical position on civil disobedience. We must use wisdom in deciding how to proceed in any and every situation. One man’s jail cell may be another man’s picket line! I struggle with the fact that Paul never considers civil disobedience as an option even as he lives under the intolerant, immoral, and wicked rule of Nero. Jesus says to buy a sword and then never mentions the evils of slavery that plagued His era. It is one thing to picket an abortionist. It is another thing to violate one of the Ten Commandments and bomb the clinic and kill the Doctor and staff. Civil Disobedience can take many forms. Think for a moment about our own American Revolution. To our fore-fathers they were freedom fighters seeking liberty. They started a war to throw off what they considered the oppressive tactics of the English government. To the English they were murderous insurrectionists who were willing to kill to get what they wanted. This was civil disobedience turned violent. The overthrow of the Czar in the Russian revolution in 1917 was violent civil disobedience. Civil disobedience is sometimes non-violent like Gandhi’s compassionate form of respectful disagreement designed to throw off British rule and eliminate Apartheid. The American Civil Rights Movement is another example of nonviolent civil disobedience. Timing is important. Laws don’t necessarily have to be broken immediately. Many Christians are working through the legal process to overturn abortion in America. We are getting close. The tide is changing. A couple of closing thoughts are in order. First, when believers feel that they should disobey the government, they must be certain that it is not because the government has denied them their rights, but because it has denied them God's rights . In America we are at liberty to preach Christ, but Christians should obey ordinances prescribing the time and place of preaching. A Christian's liberty is not infringed upon if he/she is forbidden to preach in the street in a loud voice in the middle of the night when people want to sleep. Second, while many turn to Romans 13:1-7 for the Biblical guidelines for civil disobedience, it is good to know that they are looking in the wrong place. This passage addresses the issue of a rebellious citizen, not a rebellious government. Let me summarize Paul’s teaching in this passage. This passage declares that a good Christian is a good citizen. You keep the law of the land. You don't run red lights. You don't evade your income tax. You maintain the speed limit ("The last part of us to get saved is our right foot."). You believe in private property and private rights. You look upon the officer of law as a friend of God, not as a pig. You look upon the judge in the courtroom as the finger of God, that moves under God's authority, not as someone that's out to get you. When one disobeys the law of the land, there should be punishment meted out accordingly. The Bible says, "Be afraid." It may be as mild as a warning ticket from an officer. It may be as severe as capital punishment ("The government does not bear the sword for nothing.") Those who govern us we should respect and honor. They need encouragement and our prayers so they can better care for us. We cheapen the testimony of Christ when we smear the names of men in government with stupid and sick jokes. We have it pretty good in the United States. We should remember that. Julie and I have travelled and taught in thirty-five countries and met some of the most remarkable people who chose civil disobedience over personal pleasure and/or survival. I remember one young man who came to a conference we were leading in Turkey. He had recently come from Iraq where Christianity was outlawed until the overthrow of Sadamm Hussain. He was brought in by the secret police who demanded that he reveal the names of other Christians in the country. He refused. Several fingers on his right hand were missing. Part of his ear was gone. His body was covered with cigarette burns. His feet were bare, swollen, oozing, bloody and infected. After hours of interrogation they gave him the death sentence. He was taken by jeep far out into the desert, stripped naked and abandoned. His only foreseeable outcome was to perish in the desert. By God’s grace he walked and stumbled to Jordan where he was found by some Christian brothers and sisters who nursed him back to some semblance of health. Can you image how humbling to speak to several hundred Middle Eastern church leaders while he sat in the back with his bandaged feet still weeping blood and puss? Stories like his were all over the room. Some much worse… Yes, even with crisis and tragedies here, America is greatly blessed.

Dear Roger, I hate Easter and Christmas! There are only so many creative ways I can think of to preach on the nativity and resurrection! Help! I want to be a successful pastor, but being creative week after week is tough. Any suggestions? A Tired, Frustrated Preacher Dear Pastor, I know the feeling. Preachers must be ready for every occasion—never is this more true than in our sermons. From holidays to fundraisers, from winter highs to summer doldrums and for all else in between, we rise to the task of preaching clear-cut and relevant sermons. I stretch myself by refusing to use the same sermon style every week. Varying styles add fresh air to the week-end worship experience. I enjoy finding just the right way to help people move forward in their spiritual journeys.  Of course, we all will develop a primary style. The pastor of the First Methodist Church in downtown Dallas once declared, “No sermon ought to be longer than twenty minutes.” The pastor of the First Baptist Church in Dallas, W.A. Criswell, responded publicly, “If all you do is preach sermonettes for Christianettes then twenty minutes is too long. But, if what you are doing is expounding the Word of God, then twenty minutes does not suffice for the introduction.  Both men had their own ideas about the nature of preaching. Both had developed their primary sermon styles. Both may well have been right for their own personalities and church settings, I tend to agree with Chriswell. Nevertheless, on one occasion I preached a one-sentence sermon. I don’t think anyone became a Christian that Sunday—but no one who was in attendance will ever forget it. In today’s world sermons come in all shapes and sizes. Topical sermons usually stand alone and deal weekly with one subject at a time. Textual sermons proclaim the truths and applications of one particular text or passage. Expository sermons work through a Bible passage teaching its truths usually word by word, verse by verse, or paragraph by paragraph. Narrative sermons tell a story from start to finish (The Narrative style seems to be Jesus’ favorite way of communicating truth. Interactive sermons intentionally involve the congregation in the sermon. For example, these sermons may invite the congregation to get in groups of three and actually “do” a Bible verse instead of just hearing about it. Let your people experience Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice.” Then allow them time to spend “mourning with those who mourn.” Your people will not want stop when you try to transition them into a benediction. There are one-point sermons and three-point sermons and doctrinal sermons and on and one goes the list.nMy sermon style was solidified by Charles Swindoll’s topical expositions and practical applications. John MacArthur provided the foundation for solid expository foundations.  I have a sermon tool box full of differing styles. I have preached topical, textual, expository, narrative and interactive sermons. Currently, I am working on a new textual-narrative style designed with well crafted emotional hook that reaches deep into their souls in such a way that life-change occurs right in the sermon. I am having fun—and hopefully my developing sermon styles are more relevant than ever.