Rethinking The Church & Its Relationship to the Community

A matter of appreciation...for the believer. A matter of appreciation...for the enthusiast.

2009-11-07T23:47:32Z

I ran across (no pun intended) this sonnet published in 1630 by Jacobus Revius a Protestant poet and preacher who through a self-accusatory technique which many 17th century artists of the Calvinistic reformist movement employed to examine their relationship to Christ and profess their guilt for his continued suffering. It is in my opinion a reflective and self-depricating view of sin and Jesus' sacrifice. It means nothing if you don't believe. It, the paintings and poems are just that; words on paper, colors on canvas. But for those who do believe it has a chilling affect.

In Rembrandt van Rijns' (1606-69) historic painting "the raising of the cross" c.1633 he has painted himself in the scene as Christ's executioner with his trademark artist beret. Not as a solider following orders from his commanding officer or as a lowly roman subject of Prefect Pontius Pilate assisting in the slow and painful execution called a crucifixion; but as someone in command of his own role literally at the "center" of this epic depiction.

It is a quiet piece that is voluminous. It tugs at the core of the Christian message. It is a role that one does not view him or herself in. It is for introspective thought, contemplation, reflection and even just mere appreciation of words, color and form...beautiful art...beautiful poetry.

'Tis not the Jews who crucified,

Nor who betrayed you in the judgment place,

Nor who, Lord Jesus, spat into your face,

Nor who with buffets struck you as you died

'Tis not the soldiers who with brutal fists

Raised the hammer and raised the nail

Or the cursed wood on Calvary's hill,

Or drew lots, tossed the dice to win your cloak.

I am the one, oh Lord, who brought you there,

I am the heavy tree, too stout to bear,

I am the rope that reined you in.

The scourge that flayed you, nail and spear,

The blood-soaked crown they made you wear,

'Twas all for me, alas, 'twas for my sin.

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

2009-11-04T19:04:00Z

DISCERNER OF THE HEART

Read Hebrews 3 - 4

...exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

Hebrews 3:13 NKJV

* * *

Writing to his audience of Jewish Christians, the author of Hebrews reminds them of the penalty of unbelief. The children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 years because they did not believe God. “For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. For we who have believed do enter that rest.

(4:2-3a)

The rest that comes to the children of God in our day is through faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In our struggle against sin, He is the one who gives us rest. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16

* * *

Lord, I come to you today bowing before your throne to find grace to help in my time of need.

* * *

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a Discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 NKJV

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THROUGH THE BIBLE - Genesis

2009-10-26T22:49:05Z

14]

HIS OWN PURPOSE

RACHEL AND LEAH

Read Genesis 29:1–30:24

* * *

Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? I served you for Rachel, didn’t I? Why have you deceived me?” Genesis 29:25b NIV

* * *

No one can read this account of Laban’s blatant deception without feeling sorry for Jacob and Rachel, and especially for Leah. Some would say Jacob deserved to be tricked, since he had done the same to Esau.

* * *

But through it all, in spite of the actions of sinful men, God’s plan moved forward: Jesus came from the tribe of Leah’s son Judah, and God used Rachel’s son Joseph to save his people from extinction.

* * *

Looking at this whole story in hindsight we can say with the apostle Paul, “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began–" (Romans 8:28; 2 Timothy

* * *

Lord, help me to think in terms of the big picture, even when I can’t understand why things happen the way they do. Grant me the faith to believe that You have a much larger purpose in it all, which will work for our good and Your glory, even for generations to come.

* * *

… and when she (Leah) gave birth to a son she said, “This time I will praise the LORD.” So she named him Judah … Then God remembered Rachel … She gave birth to a son and named him Joseph … Genesis 29:35; 30:22‑24a NIV

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

2009-10-23T05:04:17Z

HE BECAME A MAN

Read Hebrews 1 -2

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 NIV

* * *

The book of Hebrews begins by introducing Jesus, the Son of God, the Creator of the universe - the One who actually knows what happened, because He was there when it all began. But Jesus was not only there at the beginning, He remains as the power who holds it all together. “God’s Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. (1:3a)

There is no other power in the Heavens or on earth superior to Him. The author of Hebrews writes, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor... (2:9a) Jesus voluntarily gave up His exalted position to identify with us and pay the price for our sin. so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death-that is, the devil- and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. (2:14b-15)

* * *

Thank you Lord that you paid the ultimate price for our sin and that we can trust You as the One who sustains all things. Bless our home with Your presence and help us to share the good news that the Creator of the universe has become our Saviour.

* * *

Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18 NIV

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Titus

2009-10-15T22:31:06Z

[35]

READY FOR EVERY GOOD WORK

Read Titus 2 and 3

Those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. Titus 3:8b NKJV

* * *

Paul’s letter to Titus instructs him to appoint godly men as elders of the church. These men will have a difficult job ahead of them because there are already disputes among the people. “Remind them,” he writes, “to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. (Titus 3:1-2)

The quest for a gentle peaceable life should begin at home, so he tells Titus to gently instruct the older believers to live consistent Christian lives as examples for the young people. For instance, the older women were to “admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” (Titus 2:4-5)

* * *

Lord, help us to make every effort to be at peace with those in the church and without. May our behavior reflect the graciousness of your mercy toward us. When our hearts are troubled, give us peace and wisdom to know how to respond.

* * *

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. Titus 2:11-12 NKJV

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

2009-10-07T22:39:59Z

DIFFICULT TIMES

[34]

Read 2 Timothy 3-4

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come 2 Timothy 3:1 NKJV

* * *

Paul tells Timothy that his own ministry is about to come to a close. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he gives us some insight into what will happen prior to our Lord’s return: “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good..., lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. " (3:2-5)

In other words, the world will become an increasingly perilous place in the last days. In the face of this, what is Paul’s challenge? "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2) Even though people will not want to hear the truth, Timothy is to preach it anyway.

* * *

Lord, forgive me when I have been hesitant to answer those who deny the truth of Your Word. Give me courage to speak rather than remain silent when the name of Jesus is blasphemed. Grant me also the wisdom to know when I should remain silent and simply live the message.

* * *

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV

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THROUGH THE BIBLE - Genesis

2009-10-03T17:29:51Z

12]

ISAAC AND ESAU

Read Genesis 25:19–28:9

Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.

Genesis 25:28 NIV

* * *

Isaac, as an old man, was tricked by his son Jacob into giving him the firstborn blessing. His older son, Esau threatened to kill Jacob after Isaac died; so Rebekah told Jacob to flee until Esau's temper cooled. To Isaac she said, "I'm disgusted with living because of these Hittite women. If Jacob takes a wife from among the women of this land, my life will not be worth living." (Genesis 27:46) So Isaac called for Jacob and blessed him and commanded him: "Do not marry a Canaanite woman. Go at once to Paddan Aram. Take a wife for yourself there, from among the daughters of Laban, your mother's brother." (28:2)

* * *

It is interesting to note that Isaac had never indicated his disapproval of his oldest son's marriages, or suggested that God might have a Hebrew bride for Esau. Then Esau, who wanted to please his father, married the daughter of Ishmael, in addition to the wives he already had. How sad that Isaac, whose wife had been chosen by God, did not instruct his son in how to choose a godly wife. Today, this story could read: 'Isaac who loved sports, favored his athletic son, but neglected to teach him how to make godly choices.'

* * *

Lord, help us to faithfully teach our children to seek Your will in making important decisions.

* * *

Esau then realized how displeasing the Canaanite women were to his father Isaac…so he married Mahalath, daughter of Ishmael…In addition to the wives he already had.
Genesis 28:8-9 NIV

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THROUGH THE BIBLE - Genesis

2009-09-30T22:40:03Z

11]

ISAAC AND REBEKAH

Read Genesis 24

* * *

“… (if) she says, 'Drink, and I'll water your camels too' – let her be the one you have chosen for your servant Isaac. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master." Before he had finished praying, Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder. Genesis 24:14-15 NIV

* * *

Abraham wanted to find just the right wife for his son Isaac – someone from his own people, not from the Canaanites among whom he lived. So he sent his most trusted servant on a journey to his home country. Both Abraham and his chief servant believed that God would lead him to the right young woman. Abraham said, "The LORD, the God of heaven…who spoke to me and promised me on oath, saying, 'To your offspring I will give this land–He will send his angel before you so that you can get a wife for my son from there." (Genesis 24:7)

* * *

It is so important to pray for our children’s future spouses. What better time to start than now, while they are young, covering that child and his parents in prayer throughout their lives.

* * *

Lord, help us to teach our children to seek Your wisdom in every small or large decision. You know the future and You have a plan for each one of them. Help them as they step out into life to make choices according to Your perfect will.

* * *

Then the man bowed down and worshiped the LORD, saying …“As for me, the LORD has led me on the journey” Gen 24:26-27 NIV

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

2009-09-28T14:14:09Z

GENTLE PATIENT TEACHING

[33]

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

Read 2 Timothy 1-2

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV

* * *

When Timothy took on the pastorate of the church at Ephesus there were already false teachers at work. Paul speaks of two men in particular “who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some.” (2:18) But he encourages Timothy to stand fast to what he has been taught, in spite of the fact that some had followed these men. Paul continues, “Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His...” (2:19)

Paul urges Timothy to join him in willingness to suffer for the cause of Christ and to “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (2:22) Citing his own example he says, “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day."(1:12)

* * *

Lord, it is such a comfort that You know those who are yours. Sometimes it is necessary to stand alone in regard to the truth of Scripture. Help me to be gentle in presenting the gospel and the truth of the resurrection.

* * *

And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth. 2 Timothy 2:24-25 NKJV

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А вот и секс знакомства

2009-09-23T12:30:48Z

А вот и секс знакомства

О, Господи! Ну что за невинный ангелочек мне попался? Надеюсь, он хоть не девственник.. Степан хотел сказать что-то ещё, но я приложила свой палец к его губам, чтобы он Академия знакомств в калининграде. Все равно его уже никто не спрашивает.
Я стала снимать с него футболку, расстегивать ремень… Он больше не сопротивлялся, а только пялился на моё тело в черном полупрозрачном белье. А я, в свою очередь, рассматривала его грудь, пресс, плечи. Он восхитителен! Как Аполлон. Одновременно я расстегнула ширинку на его брюках и почувствовала что-то твёрдое и большое. Нагляделся, значит… Люблю производить эффект..

Дальше он уже действовал сам. Стянул с себя штаны вместе с трусами и оказался совсем обнаженным. Член стоял уже вовсю. Он был такой красивый и большой, с блестящей головкой. Моё дыхание стало учащаться от возбуждения, а сердце бешено колотиться. Глаза Стёпы смотрели на меня с таким желанием, что мне казалось: уже от одного этого взгляда я кончу. Он расстегнул мой лифчик и стянул с меня трусики. Стал гладить мою грудь, мои ягодицы… У Белоруский сайт знакомств оказались такие нежные руки, что по моему телу мигом пробежали мурашки. Он почувствовал это и улыбнулся. Мы закрыли крышку унитаза (романтичная обстановка, не так ли?), я посадила Стёпу на сидушку, а сама встала к нему лицом. Он стал целовать мой животик, область вокруг паха… Медленно и ласково. У меня задрожали коленки. Я немного Знакомства город изюм к его лицу и страстно поцеловала в губы. Наши горячие языки Интим садо мазо все с большей страстью, сплетались во рту то у одного, то у другого. От его кожи исходит запах молодого, но уже настоящего мужчины. Я не могла затягивать больше, да и он тоже. Я Нюрка знакомства 19 лет на его член, который глубоко в меня вошел. Из меня чуть не вырвался стон, но я сдержалась – как-никак не одни в самолете! Я вцепилась в его мягкие волосы, а он обхватил своими ладонями мой таз. Я начала двигаться вверх и вниз, получая огромное наслаждение.

Стёпа помогал мне руками. Своими сильными руками. Его член настолько упругий, что я ощущаю его всеми внутренними клетками влагалища. Я придвинулась чуть поближе, чтобы при фрикциях мой клитор соприкасался с низом живота партнёра. Я стала вращать попкой по кругу, а потом вниз – назад – вперед и вверх. Получалось, Богатые мужчины знакомства будто я скачу на жеребце.. Мой клитор все это время тёрся, напрягался, и с каждым новым движением я ощущала невероятное возбуждение и удовольствие. Я ускорялась с каждой секундой всё быстрее, мои пальцы скользили по широкой Степиной спине… Кровь приливала к вискам, в глазах немного потемнело.. Я прыгала, как бешенная и…. кончила! Этот оргазм был настолько сильным, что отдавался во всем теле: от макушки до пальцев ног. Это было умопомрачительно!!!

Степа поднялся и Архангельск интим магазинменя коленями на унитаз, чтобы я стояла к нему «раком». Тут же он вонзил в меня свой большой фаллос, немного наклонился вперед и обхватил мои груди. Стал трахать меня так, как будто отсидел на зоне лет15. Я подумала, что его член сотрет меня в пыль. Это было резко, но это было незабываемо. Каждое его проникновение заставляло меня прогибаться вверх…
Через несколько секунд я слышу его вздох и чувствую замедленные движения. Да! Он кончил в меня! Надеюсь, мои таблетки не подведут, а то моему парню придется воспитывать чужого ребенка.

И надо же, как кстати, стали стучаться в дверь с криками: «Еврейская служба знакомств shalom». Нам пришлось быстро одеваться, хотя это было сложно, и мы постоянно стукались лбами. Наконец, мы вышли из туалета. Вот это картина: стоит очередь эдак из семи человек и все с напряженными лицами. Я чуть не засмеялась прямо на месте. Зато пассажиры посмотрели на нас с таким возмущением, будто мы трахались у всех на глазах, забыв закрыть дверь.
После Знакомства кемерово новосибирск, как мы выпили, стали разговаривать о простых вещах, о нём, обо мне. Оказывается, Степан является представителем какой-то фирмы и летит в другой город по работе. Но, в общем-то, Омский гей знакомства в разговорах была суть, а в том, что им сопутствовало: взгляды, случайные прикосновения, улыбки, жесты…
Через некоторое время Степан встал, известив о том, что ему надо в туалет. Ну вот, а мы так мило беседовали!… Хотя… Это же прекрасно! Какая замечательная идея! Иди, Казанова знакомства, иди.

Минуты через 1,5 я встала и пошла за ним. Проходя через Мулаточки интим, заметила, что все вокруг какие-то сонные, только дети задыхаются от радости, вглядываясь в иллюминатор. Ну почему мне спокойно не спится? Нет, ищу себе приключений на одно место.
Как только я подошла к двери уборной, она стала открываться, и я увидела того, за кем пришла. Стёпа ещё не Первоуральск сайт знакомств сделать удивленные глаза, как я уже резко толкнула его обратно в кабинку и закрыла дверь на щеколду. А здесь ничего, расположиться можно.
Я ничего не понимаю! Интим знакомства сызрань? Вроде переходный возраст закончился, а я чувствую себя пятнадцатилетним мальчишкой, который только и делает, что думает о сексе. Но я-то не мальчишка! Я – девушка в самом расцвете. А хочу всё, что движется, подмигивает и улыбается… Мне уже стыдно ездить в общественном транспорте, ходить в рестораны или заниматься на тренировках. Повсюду я бросаю дикие, страстные, раздевающие взгляды на окружающих мужчин. А ведь у меня есть свой! И он не ограничивает меня в сексе.

Даже наоборот! Но иногда мы прерываемся на такие дела, как Сайт знакомств архив, хождение по магазинам или занятие спортом… Ну и что? Мне ВСЕГДА хочется! Даже, когда я ругаюсь с какой-нибудь занудливой злобной бабкой в очереди на кассе. Может это болезнь? Боюсь, если я буду Знакомства перово удовлетворять свои нездоровые потребности, то мой организм очень быстро износится. А это в мои жизненные планы не входит.

Ну вот! И сейчас! Я лечу в самолете к маме в гости. Она живет в Знакомства и кирочки. А у меня сейчас отпуск, черт его побери.. Я одета в красную обтягивающую короткую юбку и белую маечку с глубоким вырезом, через которую виднеется моё черное бельё. И вовсе я так оделась не для того, чтобы привлечь к себе внимание!…. Просто жарко. Очень жарко. А кондиционеры в самолете сломались и прохладительные напитки кончились. И… мы же в небе… Здесь солнце жарче греет… И нечего ухмыляться!

Рядом со мной сидит молодой Знакомства в норвегии и европе. Наверное, даже младше меня года на 2. У него очень красивый торс: накачанный, рельефный. А сам смуглый, с зелеными глазами, коротко стриженый, и от него очень вкусно пахнет. А Знакомство с невысокими мужчинами обожаю, когда мужчина использует парфюм, просто голову теряю. И эта ситуация не оказалась исключением. Я уже знала, что он от меня теперь никуда не денется. Парень Гей знакомства телефон как-то неспокойно, все время бросал на меня взгляды и явно набирался храбрости, чтобы заговорить со мной. Я подозвала стюардессу и заказала 2 бокала виски со льдом (ну, ладно, холодильник у них работал!). Через 5 минут моё желание исполнили. Итак! Я мысленно проанализировала ситуацию. Что мы имеем в наличии? 2 бокала алкогольного напитка и симпатичного соблазнительного юношу рядом.

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