Category Archives: Legislation

5 Reasons Christians Will Not Bow

Church, Culture, Government, Legislation,

3D_Judges_Gavel (1)Paul used illustrations of soldiers and battles to describe the Christian life. Recent weeks have proven the wisdom of such ideas. We are in a battle we did not choose. We are daily assaulted by worldly forces in high places. Some have already surrendered. Others fight on. This not a battle where compromise and treaties will signal the end. Instead, Christians are fighting for their very souls.

Our opponents rejoice in what they see as great victories over us. But they miss one thing: Court victories are irrelevant to our cause. I offer 5 facts for consideration.

1. Our battles are waged in the heart of a person

Legislation and court decisions do not define a man. A man is defined by what is in his heart. These are not my thoughts, but those of Jesus who said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him…” (Mark 7:20). We seek holiness in ourselves as well as others because God is holy and has called us to live a life of holiness. My character, even my holiness, cannot be formed through ever changing laws and ideas of men.

When the Supreme Court approved abortion on demand in the 1973 Roe v. Wade court decision, women were freed from any legal constraint preventing abortion, but they were not compelled to abort. They retained freedom to choose life for their unborn child or to choose abortion. Churches and organizations reached out to women and many rejected abortion in favor of life. Such an inner choice was superior to any court ruling. Today we will reach out to men and women and draw them away from the practice of homosexuality and other sins. We will fight the battle of truth in their hearts.

2. Not one person was ever saved by politics

The political process has swung to and fro over faith. At times it was favorable to Christians (although it always ended badly) while at other times government was hostile to faith. Recall that the church was born into the midst of persecution, first by Jews and then by Rome, yet grew exponentially. One could argue that persecution helped the church to grow.

Today, Islam believes that faith can be spread at the end of a sword. Not true. A man can no more be forced into righteousness than he can be governed into wickedness. We will use the political process as a means to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16) but we will not depend on the voting booth to deliver souls to our Lord.

3. Our faith is not subject to the courts

We are people of another country. The Bible calls us “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11). We are only here for a while; we are just passing through. We will respect the authority of the government (Romans 13:1-7) and we will do as instructed by our Lord, we will “render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and render unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21; Mark 12:17; Luke 20:25). We will be the very best citizens and neighbors you could hope for.

However, we will never trade our holy duties for civic duties. There is no court in the land that can overturn any teaching of Jesus. We are first of all citizens of His kingdom (Colossians 1:13; Romans 14:17) for He is “King of kings and Lord of lords” (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; Revelation 19:16). We reject any law or decision that attempts to set aside any God-ordained teaching in Scripture. This was the example of the Lord’s apostles (Acts 5:29) and it will be our example too.

4. We will pay any price to serve our Lord

No law will ever stop a Christian from serving his Lord. Already, many are being harassed out of business because of their beliefs. First century Christians were forced from their homes because of persecution (Acts 8:1-4) and when they went, they went preaching. Christians recognize the government has immense power to force compliance with laws, however we put the world on notice that we will pay any price for our Lord. [bctt tweet=”We put the world on notice: We will pay any price for our Lord.”]

The ancient examples encourage us to stand firm in the face of opposition. Our Lord was, Himself, crucified. The followers of Jesus were stoned unjustly (Acts 7:54-60) and His apostles were often imprisoned, beaten and left for dead (Acts 14:19; Acts 16:16-24). Yet, in the heat of the assault, Jesus was proclaimed and souls were turned to the Lord. What an honor to be counted worthy of such suffering (Acts 5:41). Indeed, the world itself was not worthy of these great men and women who were shamefully treated for their beliefs (Hebrews 11:32-40). We too will count it a blessing to suffer persecution for the name of our Lord (Matthew 5:10-12).

No price is too steep for Jesus. [bctt tweet=”No price is too steep for Jesus.”]

5. In the end, Jesus wins

When it is all said and done, Jesus wins. If you could distill the entire book of Revelation into a single sentence it would be: Jesus Wins. And, as His followers, we will stand victorious with Him. Already death has been defeated and is now powerless over the Christians (1 Corinthians 15:54-58). Future victory is assured and “every knee shall bow” (Philippians 2:9-11).

Our treasure, the treasure the wicked cannot touch, is laid up in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). That is our home and that is where we will spend a victorious eternity. [bctt tweet=”In the end, Jesus wins!”]

It may seem a paradox, but we do not want to defeat you. We want you to join with us and defeat evil. In this battle the ultimate enemy is Satan, not our fellow man. We welcome you with open hearts to stand in the Lord’s army and be counted among the righteous.

As Joshua said in ancient times, we echo: “And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15).

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

 

4 Reasons Not To Be Surprised at the World

Culture, Government, Homosexuality, Legislation, ,

standing aloneThe disappointing decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, Obergefell v. Hodges, which allows same sex marriage in all states regardless of the will of the people, prompted an outpouring of angst on social media sites. American Christians were stunned that SCOTUS delivered a ruling so at odds with Bible teaching. Suddenly Christians found themselves, again, on the losing end of a political decision. For some, it was certainly the end of the world. For others, it was an excuse to spew forth venom against a community of people with whom they disagreed.

During the social media storm, I read a blog from author Carey Nieuwofe offering a Canadian perspective on same-sex marriage. Titled Some Advice on Same-Sex Marriage for US Church Leaders From a Canadian, the post was balanced and on target. I commend it to you. The post offers 5 ideas for American Christians to consider. His article caused me to think deeper about the decision and the reaction. From the seed of his post I offer 4 reasons why Christians should not be surprised at the decision or the joyous backlash from the LGBT community. [bctt tweet=”Christians should not be surprised at the SCOTUS decision”]

1. Jesus Was a Countercultural Icon

In his own day, Jesus countered the prevailing winds of society and government. He was never satisfied with the condition of the Jewish nation and he was never afraid to say so. In Matthew chapter 5, part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus countered current teaching and expanded on what was being practiced. 6 times Jesus said “but I say to you…” He took their standard and made it better. He took their culture to a higher level.

The scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees and high priests were the leaders of the day. They set the tone for religious life among the Jews. Jesus saved his most scathing comments for them. In Matthew 23, he offers strong rebukes of these cultural leaders. 6 times Jesus says, “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! One other time he calls them “blind guides.” He opposed their way of life and their teachings. He sought to counter them by offering a new and better way.

2. Jesus Was Hated by the Establishment

Because he was so vocal and well received by the common man, the leaders of the day hated Jesus. These leaders were first curious about this new call to renewal from John (Matthew 3:7-10) and then later sent to Jesus to learn more about him (John 3:1-2). Soon, however, they sought to discredit Jesus before his followers (Matthew 16:1; Mark 8:11; Luke 10:25; John 8:6). At every turn Jesus bested their feeble attempts to embarrass him. It would take more than tricky questions to bring Jesus down. [bctt tweet=”Countercultural Jesus was hated by the establishment then and now.”]

A great miracle in Bethany proves the turning point for the established leadership of Judaism. Jesus called Lazarus back from the dead. The miracle could not be denied and more and more people began to follow after Jesus. The leaders were not pleased. “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs. If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation” (John 11:47-48). The high priest then uttered these dark words: “You know nothing at all.  Nor do you understand that it is better for you that one man should die for the people, not that the whole nation should perish” (John 11:49-50). These were prophetic words concerning Jesus’ death.

The established leaders of the day despised Jesus so much that they schemed to kill him. They were successful. Their hatred had become murderous.

 

3. Don’t Be Surprised When the Establishment Hates You

It is not reasonable that the world would hate our Lord and love us. The established culture and governments of the day oppose us because they oppose our Lord.

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.  If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.  Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me” (John 15:18-21).  [bctt tweet=”It is not reasonable that the world would hate our Lord and love us”]

No surprises. The world is in the hands of the evil one (1 John 5:19).

We want to be faithful servants of Jesus. We also want to be accepted by the world. The two are not compatible. It hurts deeply when the world rejects us because of our faith. But know that it is nothing new. It happened to our Lord – it will happen to us.

 

4. We Are Not Like The World And Must Never Be

Part of our trouble is that we want desperately to be like the world so that we will be accepted. The idea of isolation frightens us and threatens many of the relationships we hold dear. But to be a Christian is to place every relationship on the altar of sacrifice. Jesus said that includes our family (Matthew 10:37). Paul surrendered everything for his relationship with Jesus (Philippians 3:4-11).

As Christians, we are first of all citizens of Christ’s kingdom, placed there by the power of God (Colossians 1:13). We are God’s people; we are God’s possession (1 Peter 2:9-10). We are only “strangers and exiles” in this life (1 Peter 2:11).

Our culture is growing darker and darker (2 Timothy 3:13). They will grow to hate truth (even more than they already do) and will despise those who speak the truth. Remember we are not the world. As for our nation, Christians do not need the USA; the USA needs Christians. Only by standing firm on the rock of truth can we lead people from darkness to light. When light mixes with darkness it always grows dim. [bctt tweet=”Christians do not need the USA; the USA needs Christians”]

We must reject the temptation to bow to societal and cultural pressures to conform. We must not change. But always stand firm.

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

 

Wanna Bet?

Culture, General, Government, Legislation, ,

13-02-27-spielbank-wiesbaden-by-RalfR-065How many times have we been told that gambling will solve all of our problems and make our state coffers flush with cash? We’ve heard that gambling is the answer to everything from school funding to medical research. In fact, gambling brings with it a whole new set of problems. Aside from violating the Golden Rule, stomping the work ethic and taking food off the table of those least able to afford it, gambling is a crime producer.

Now there is statistical proof . The Pew Research center says states with gambling see an increase in public corruption when gambling is approved. The most corrupt states in the nation are gambling states while the least corrupt do not promote gambling. This is not the last word on the subject but it is worth reading the report. You can find “For states, gambling on casinos may be bad bet” on the Pew website.

Many years ago, Alabama gave approval to dog racing in Greene County. Located in the black belt of Alabama, Greene was a picture of poverty. Despite throngs of visitors, the county is still gripped by poverty, poor education and poor healthcare. All of the promises failed. It’s worth thinking about the next time some politician tells you how gambling will cure what ails us.

Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at bryantevans.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.

Important Religious Research

Culture, Legislation, Web sites,

Sometimes, the practice of faith receives a boost from the sciences. Over the weekend an analysis was posted by the Heritage Foundation which brings together many studies on the benefits of religion. One of the conclusions hints at the breadth of this report.

The available evidence clearly demonstrates that regular religious practice is both an individual and social good. It is a powerful answer to many of our most significant social problems, some of which, including out-of-wedlock births, have reached catastrophic proportions. Furthermore, it is available to all, and at no cost.

The report cites studies which demonstrates the following benefits gained from the religious life.

For example, there is ample evidence that:

  • The strength of the family unit is intertwined with the practice of religion. Churchgoers are more likely to be married, less likely to be divorced or single, and more likely to manifest high levels of satisfaction in marriage.
  • Church attendance is the most important predictor of marital stability and happiness.
  • The regular practice of religion helps poor persons move out of poverty. Regular church attendance, for example, is particularly instrumental in helping young people to escape the poverty of inner-city life.
  • Religious belief and practice contribute substantially to the formation of personal moral criteria and sound moral judgment.
  • Regular religious practice generally inoculates individuals against a host of social problems, including suicide, drug abuse, out-of-wedlock births, crime, and divorce.
  • The regular practice of religion also encourages such beneficial effects on mental health as less depression (a modern epidemic), more self-esteem, and greater family and marital happiness.
  • In repairing damage caused by alcoholism, drug addiction, and marital breakdown, religious belief and practice are a major source of strength and recovery.
  • Regular practice of religion is good for personal physical health: It increases longevity, improves one’s chances of recovery from illness, and lessens the incidence of many killer diseases.
The report is detailed and lengthy but is required reading for Christians. You will be encouraged. There are specific suggestions for religious leaders as well as specific steps which should be undertaken by Congress and the President. Care is taken not to establish a single religion. The article is not about Christianity only but about religion generally.
Given the effort to exclude faith from the public square this article is timely and very needed.

What If Abortion Was Legal When You Were Born?

Abortion, Culture, Legislation, Web sites

What if abortion were legal when you were born? Would you still be here? Many of us in our 40′ and beyond would not be. For those born later the answer is obviously “yes.” But then you have to wonder how many brothers, sisters, cousins, friends, schoolmates, etc. are missing from  your life because of abortion.

Abortion is one of the hottest political buttons in American culture. There are usually very few people in the middle. Either you are a pro-life person or pro-abortion. There is very little middle ground. The one who approves of abortion cannot imagine how a sane person could possible restrict the decision a woman might make. Pro-life activists cannot imagine how one could take the life of an innocent. It may be that radical political change in Washington may have opened the door to a swelling of support for the rights of the unborn. We have previously written of the [cref abortion horrible attitude of our leader toward human life.] This post offers some reason for optimism.

Talk About Abortion

Clenard Childress is an activist who calls upon churchgoers to rise up and speak out against abortion. He writes an article in Christianity Today, Speak out Publicly. He notes a shift in those opposing abortion. It could be that the radical proposals in health care have caused some to rethink their stance on the sanctity of life.

Pass Abortion Laws

Charmaine Yoest heads Americans United for Life. She argues that out best chance for laws restricting abortion is to be found in  the state legislatures. She cites a study done by a University of Alabama researcher which seems to point the way forward. Her post is Pass More State Laws.

Do Something About Abortion

Finally, read Melinda Delahoyde’s challenge to Volunteer at a Center. Pro-life advocates are open to one great charge: We don’t do enough to help the mother’s during and after their pregnancy. Of course this opens the door to a healthy discussion of adoption which is often lacking in the church. Here’s the opening quote from Delahoyde;

Can you imagine what our nation might look like if every pro-life individual applied the full weight of his or her passion to reaching out with support and care to women facing crisis pregnancies?

You will find her article encouraging but very challenging.

Christians must not accept the continuing downward spiral of our national morality. Remember the word sof

H.R. 1913 Will Not Stop Preaching

Culture, Homosexuality, Legislation, , ,

763px-handcuffssvgBrethren are being warned about the passage, in the U.S. House, of H.R. 1913. The bill is called the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009. The warnings tell of future prosecution or persecution of preachers who speak Biblically against homosexuality.

We are all sensitive to any threat against the pulpit. Some in our culture would love to stop all preaching especially that which brings to light their own sins (John 3:19). God’s men have preached against sin in good times and in bad and will continue to do so no matter what threats may appear (2 Timothy 4:2).

H.R. 1913 will not shut down the pulpit as warned by some and likely will not open the door for federal seizures of preacher’s computers, books, files etc.

Here are some things about the bill typically left out of the dire warnings:

  • Hate crimes against religion are protected in this bill along with hate crimes against “NATIONAL ORIGIN, GENDER, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, OR DISABILITY” (actual language, Section 6).
  • The bill specifically targets those who commit a crime “through the use of fire, a firearm, a dangerouse [sic] weapon, or an explosive or incendiary device” (actual language, Section  6).
  • The bill specifically excludes any activities protected by the Constitution (Section 8). The First Amendment secures our right to practice religion and to engage in free speech.

Homosexuality is sinful (Romans 1:26, 27) and should be opposed. But let us be so careful in our church bulletins and our emails. Inaccurate reporting of legislation, although with good, solid motives, is harmful and should be avoided.

The larger question is whether preacher’s will stand for truth or cave in to  the latest fad or trend. Even if the government should somehow ban preaching altogether, faithful men will continue to preach the words of God loudly and  publically.

If you are still concerned you should know that your local Congressman, Jo Bonner, voted against the measure. The bill has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee where your Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions is the ranking member.