A grave concern

[George]

Brothers and sisters something has been on my mind and my heart for a few days now. I am really concerned that the way of the forums has gotten away from the intended purpose. It appears from the posts recently that we have become a political forum rather than a God-honoring christian group.

I bear the burden of responsibility in many cases. I have added to and increased the political agenda recently displayed here. because of that I am going to stay out of any more political forums.

The reason we are here is to honor and worship God as well as to help one another (look up one another in the New Testament) know and understand God and His ways. We also have a burden to those who may be visiting the site and those who may be visiting who are lost. I do not believe that we have fulfilled that burden lately.

Perhaps I am out of line but I don't think so. Have we become so involved in the world and its things that we have forgotten our obligation to the Father?

(Psa 51:13) Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.

(Mat 28:19) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

We have an obligation and a responsibility to God. Let us strive toward that obligation and responsibility.

Please accept my apologies for getting off line and not remembering the true reason we are here.

In Christ,
George

[IM4given]

Bro George,

It is not us who have left out patriotic duty as US Citizens, but it is the Government who has declared us to be outlaws - it is hard not to have an opinion about that.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,516886,00.html

Just my 2 cents.

[Jerry80871852]

George, I agree, I think to many Christians are to involved in politics.

3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

2 Tim 2:3-4 (KJV)

To me, politics is of this world, when we entangle ourself in them we lose focus on our true calling.

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

Eph 2:10-11 (KJV)

We are His workman, called to do the good works that he has for each of us. plus we are not to be in a group where we are yoked together with unbelievers, one who is in a political party is unequally yoke together with unbelievers.

All of our resources should go towards winning one heart at a time, laws will not make a people good moral agents.

19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
Mark 4:19 (KJV)

14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
Luke 8:14 (KJV)

Cares of this life have choked the Word of God out of many people.

I keep up with what's going on, but I want no part of it.

Besides that, I don't see anywhere in the New Testament where Jesus got involved in political matters nor where he instructed His apostles to nor where they got involved in such things. But I do see where they were involved in the Word and that was where they put their efforts fort, trying to win one heart at a time.

I know, with the politicians telling us what we should do, and many pastors from the pulpits telling their members to be invloved and vote, we lose sight of the true teachings of the Bible.

I do remember that many thought Jesus had came to set His kingdom up on this earth, but they find out that was not the case, Jesus overcome this world, we can to thru Him.

The early church sure did not seem to be involved in politics.

43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts 2:43-47 (KJV)

May the Lord Bless,

Jerry

4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.
6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
1 John 4:4-6 (KJV)

[George]

Quote:It is not us who have left out patriotic duty as US Citizens

Apparently I did a rather poor job of expressing my intent on that post. I did not say, nor did I intend to imply that anyone should leave out anything much less our patriotic duty. I also did not intend nor try to imply that anyone should be without opinion on the things that affect us politically.

My sole intent was to draw fact to the point that this site is, in my opinion, too involved in the things of the world and especially the political aspects of it rather than the things of the Lord and His doings.

My word, the internet if full of forums that exist to promote and discuss things political. I just do not want Fundamentalpreaching.com to fall into that category. I do not think it that great a thing if someone who were searching for a relationship with the Lord were to take a look at the forums and find that we are all involved in things political and not really with the things of the Bible.

Perhaps I am wrong, that I do not know.

In Christ,
George

[Jerry80871852]

George, how can any Christians be a democrat or republican without violating there verses?

2Co 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

2Co 6:15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

2Co 6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

2Co 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

2Co 6:18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

We all know that nearly every major office holder is either a democrat or republican, and yes, the last few years some Independent have been elected.

But now, the major party that has been supported by Christians in the last few years is on the verge of halting their support of godly values, I posted an article on it here.

http://www.fundamentalpreaching.com/mcca...-1649.html

My wife Linda has an aunt who is a devoted Christian, in the past she always supported the Democrat party, she like my father is a yellow dog democrat, but this last election she supported the republican party, she finally said she could no longer vote for people who upheld abortion and gay rights. We use to talk politics a bit, but she has hearing troubles anymore and its so hard for her to understand what anyone says so we don't discuss like we once did.

Me, I've just never been into politics much, always has seemed to me politicians were self centered and felt like they know more about what is best for us than we do, so many of them will make all kinds of promises to get the votes but there be so few times when they will keep their promises.

And take Bill Clinton who was governor of my state, even after his pitiful sinful 8 years as president his popularity is still quite high.

And take a look at Americas record, with each new president through out its history it has actually gotten more sin filled. Seems to me many Christians seem to think, if we can just get so & so of the republican party elected America will be on the right track, but yet with each new president America tries harder to push God out of our country.

No doubt, as the Bible explains to us, the Christians are a small minority, and always has been and always will be, but in the end they will be on the winning side, but not while this earth stands.

I think I understood were your were going, but I carried it further than you were thinking or expecting. It is something to think seriously about.

May the Lord Bless,

Jerry

Rev 21:5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

Rev 21:6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

Rev 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

Rev 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

[George]

Brother Jerry I believe one of the biggest problems we have currently is the two-party system. I think I expressed it here before that we have a lot of people voting and living the two-party system and not standing on principles. It matters not to me what the party line is. Fortunately God has allowed that we have the ability to look at an issue and determine if it is something that should be supported. Unfortunately there just appear to be too many people who have either forgotten that or put it on the back burner.

In Christ,
George

[Jerry80871852]

George, Perhaps the problem is there be to many unbelievers who do not share godly values. In yesterday years unbelievers were not near as bold at standing openly for the sins they enjoy, today that is not the case, they openly flaunt their sins for all to see.

But even worse than that, many who call their self Christians also stand with them and support their ungodly ways.

We are in a country where supposely the majority rules, and the majority stand openly and bodly against God in America.

In Chrsit,
Jerry

Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

[candlelight]

George said:

Brothers and sisters something has been on my mind and my heart for a few days now. I am really concerned that the way of the forums has gotten away from the intended purpose. It appears from the posts recently that we have become a political forum rather than a God-honoring christian group.

Amen! Someone finally said it. *whew*

George said:

Brother Jerry I believe one of the biggest problems we have currently is the two-party system. I think I expressed it here before that we have a lot of people voting and living the two-party system and not standing on principles. It matters not to me what the party line is. Fortunately God has allowed that we have the ability to look at an issue and determine if it is something that should be supported. Unfortunately there just appear to be too many people who have either forgotten that or put it on the back burner.

Thank you! Also, as a Christian woman... I vote the way my hubby votes, as he is the "head of the household." Whatever his convictions are? I am leaving that up to him. To me... it gets too exhausting. I am "the weaker vessel"... and I know it! I suppose, both of us having grown up as right-wing conservatives... we are very sure of what is morally right and wrong. He will answer to the Lord. I don't think we (as believers) should be "taking other blood-bought Bible believing Christian's Inventory"--- if you know what I mean. I "lean on my husband"... because I know he "leans on the Lord." Whatever his convictions are? I leave it up to him. I am well aware of what is going on in the world. I keep my eyes and ears open. I do a lot of praying there... lol.

God bless everyone ~

Molly

[ChuckieTrout]

George Wrote:I bear the burden of responsibility in many cases. I have added to and increased the political agenda recently displayed here. because of that I am going to stay out of any more political forums.

The reason we are here is to honor and worship God as well as to help one another . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . In Christ,
George

Thanks George, I think your focus & moderating of this site is what makes it so encouraging to us & others that pull it up for a quick read. Yet as we live in this world (but not partakers thereof), we need to pray and talk (this medium) our American-Christian fundamentals occasionally to bring us back to a God honoring-glorifying country that we cherish (heaven on earth so to speak). Our 'National Day of Prayer' today is that perfect time of such a focus.
We leave the skillful moderating to you'ens that are equipped to the task at hand!!!
May we bless God in our doings, & may God continue to bless this Nation.
As my signature-salutation states: "If you are not governed by God, you will be ruled by tyrants." (William Penn, 1681)

[candlelight]

A HEARTY Amen... Brothers in Christ!


My last post on this subject was Tuesday.... when I posted the link to Brigitte Gabriel's site so that people could explore on their own time. And, if they want to get involved? That shouldn't be a problem. *smile* Having grown up with right-wing politics and marrying into 2 right-wing families... (former husband and hubby) I don't have the strength for this. I also voted Independent when it wasn't fashionable. I voted for Ross Perot and I got laughed at. I followed my conscience as a single mom.

Btw, the men in my life are zoned-out watching golf right now. Now, that is relaxing for me... haha. Not to play, though, just to watch. That is too intense for me, as well.

Brother ChuckieTrout said:

we need to pray and talk (this medium) our American-Christian fundamentals occasionally to bring us back to a God honoring-glorifying country that we cherish (heaven on earth so to speak). Our 'National Day of Prayer' today is that perfect time of such a focus.
We leave the skillful moderating to you'ens that are equipped to the task at hand!!!
May we bless God in our doings, & may God continue to bless this Nation.
As my signature-salutation states: "If you are not governed by God, you will be ruled by tyrants." (William Penn, 1681)

Thank you, brother!

Also, thank you for the scriptures... Pastor Jerry!

In Christ Jesus ~

Molly

[Jim]

Quote:My sole intent was to draw fact to the point that this site is, in my opinion, too involved in the things of the world and especially the political aspects of it rather than the things of the Lord and His doings.

Amen to that brother. It is good that we have a general discussion area, and that is where talk that is dedicated, but it is bad if and when that one location seems to hold the majority discussions and conversations.

We are all doing a good job of keeping things in the correct locations, we just need to, or at least I need to focus more on the more important locations.

Like this one here, we are in General Discussion, and that is where it should be.

Talk about politics is just fine, and we need to get more christians into poilitical positions so we can have godly legislation passed:

Quote:1 Timothy 1:5
Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

1:6
From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;

1:7
Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.

1:8
But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;

1:9
Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,

1:10
For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

1:11
According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.

Yes indeed folks, laws should be passed that are against things that are contrary to scripture, and to do that, christians ned to be involved in politics.

Love in Christ,

Jim

[Jerry80871852]

Political positions. I recall a man once saying, if you want to ruin a good honest man, elect him to congress and send him to Washington.

Seems that rings of much truth. Perhaps if term limits in place to keep them from gaining so much power, this would not happen to so many.

[Ebenezer]

Jerry80871852 Wrote:George, I agree, I think too many Christians are too involved in politics.
.....
To me, politics is of this world, when we entangle ourself in them we lose focus on our true calling.
.....
We are His workman, called to do the good works that he has for each of us. plus we are not to be in a group where we are yoked together with unbelievers, one who is in a political party is unequally yoke together with unbelievers.

All of our resources should go towards winning one heart at a time, laws will not make a people good moral agents.
.....
Cares of this life have choked the Word of God out of many people.

I keep up with what's going on, but I want no part of it.

Besides that, I don't see anywhere in the New Testament where Jesus got involved in political matters nor where he instructed His apostles to nor where they got involved in such things.

The problem with that Biblical reasoning is that we then leave the government at every level to unbelievers. We should not then be surprised that antichristian laws are enacted, & the godless take power.

Rom 12:6-8 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift .... is leadership, let him govern diligently;

When we pray for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness should we pray for their conversion & subsequent resignation from government? I think not.

The Scriptures are full of examples of godly & godless rulers. The godless lead the people to judgement of a holy God.[/i]

[Jerry80871852]

Ebenezer Wrote:

Jerry80871852 Wrote:George, I agree, I think too many Christians are too involved in politics.
.....
To me, politics is of this world, when we entangle ourself in them we lose focus on our true calling.
.....
We are His workman, called to do the good works that he has for each of us. plus we are not to be in a group where we are yoked together with unbelievers, one who is in a political party is unequally yoke together with unbelievers.

All of our resources should go towards winning one heart at a time, laws will not make a people good moral agents.
.....
Cares of this life have choked the Word of God out of many people.

I keep up with what's going on, but I want no part of it.

Besides that, I don't see anywhere in the New Testament where Jesus got involved in political matters nor where he instructed His apostles to nor where they got involved in such things.

The problem with that Biblical reasoning is that we then leave the government at every level to unbelievers. We should not then be surprised that antichristian laws are enacted, & the godless take power.

Rom 12:6-8 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift .... is leadership, let him govern diligently;

When we pray for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness should we pray for their conversion & subsequent resignation from government? I think not.

The Scriptures are full of examples of godly & godless rulers. The godless lead the people to judgement of a holy God.[/i]

OK, show me any involvement whatsoever Jesus and His 12 had in government affairs. Jesus did set the example all of us are to follow, deny self, take up our cross, and follow Him. Remember the saying that is so true we need to ask our self, "What Would Jesus Do?" One thing He never did was get involved in worldly government, but worked towards gaining citizens for that Kingdom that is to come and sent His 12 to work towards that very same goal.


2Ti 2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
2Ti 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

Yes, when we get entangled in the affairs of politics we fail our God in many areas, more especially this one.

1Ti 2:1 ¶ I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
1Ti 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1Ti 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

[Mongol Servant]

Alright Jerry, here ya go - one example is what you asked for:

Matthew 22:21 - They say unto him, Caesar's, Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and the things unto God the things that are God's.

Here's a 2nd example from Paul: Romans 13:4 says that rulers are MINISTERS of God. America has gotten to the point she's at now because too many Christians stuck their head in the sand, and decided that all we have to do is tell people the gospel and it will fix everything. You forget that the Bible does not say, don't be involved in the affairs of our nation, it simply says don't be ENTANGLED. BIG difference.

Like Eb noted above, if Christians don't stand up for truth and Christian principles, the devil's crowd will stand up for lies and debauchery. Remember The Lord's teaching - OCCUPY TIL I COME!