tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67411686879078255022024-03-13T11:16:50.578-07:00New Geneva Ambassador School BlogRev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-9725872603789982072019-03-05T15:12:00.000-08:002019-03-05T15:12:32.889-08:00Tactical Recon: Kingdom Promotion<br />
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Once you have a clear understanding of the issues that face
your community you can begin to promote yourself within your community. Promotion
is one of the tactics that will position you in your community as a
knowledgeable and influential individual. At the outset it is important that you
understand that when we speak of seeking self-promotion, we are actually
seeking to promote Christ and a Biblical world view and not ourselves. </div>
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Consider
yourself the vehicle, or tool, for the Kingdom’s promotion. And so by promoting
yourself you are actually promoting the Kingdom.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Ultimate Goal<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Your goal is to bring the knowledge of Scripture in an
applicable form to bear upon the issues and policies of the day. This begins by
situating ourselves so as to be visible. We promote ourselves only so we can
gain access to areas and people in the community for the reorientation of the
culture God-ward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether we are seeking
to position ourselves as family advocates, legislative critics or political
activists, our goal must always be Kingdom focused. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A Delicate Balance<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The promotion of one’s self can be a very tricky endeavor. On
the one hand, you do not want to shy away from self-promotion in order to engage
others in conversation for the purpose of Biblical discussion. On the other hand,
you should never seek to promote yourself in an arrogant, proud or boisterous
fashion just to get your point of view across. You must always maintain a
Christian demeanor showing yourself as responsible and resourceful person
tempered with kindness and patience. Integrity is the key, as is honesty,
kindness and a sincere consideration for others. If you use Christ to promote
your own personal agenda rather than the Kingdom’s you will quickly be found
out as a hypocrite and your witness will soon be destroyed. Once that happens
it’s almost impossible to recover. As soon as the hypocrite is revealed he or
she will no longer be trusted. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Passion<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MN3cceZilRo/XH8BEK7O_LI/AAAAAAAACMY/6rmkIHaCEbgKMa8SBCEZ2fniOYzPLnNhQCLcBGAs/s1600/passion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="100" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MN3cceZilRo/XH8BEK7O_LI/AAAAAAAACMY/6rmkIHaCEbgKMa8SBCEZ2fniOYzPLnNhQCLcBGAs/s200/passion.jpg" width="200" /></a>Enthusiasm is another key component to promoting anything.
If you are not enthusiastic you will never be able to engage others in your
cause. Passion is essential to any endeavor. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Author of the “Shameless Self-Promoter” and marketing expert
Debbie Allen explains,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Your mood affects your beliefs…Staying positive and
enthusiastic is essential…A positive attitude along with a contagious enthusiasm
will support your groundwork…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Introduce, Integrate,
Initiate<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hmR0wH4J6Uo/XH8BsjUgMfI/AAAAAAAACMo/Y1TXQygFWw8JhC0XUqqrfsrEhEBQ96UuwCLcBGAs/s1600/customer-relationship-management-crm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hmR0wH4J6Uo/XH8BsjUgMfI/AAAAAAAACMo/Y1TXQygFWw8JhC0XUqqrfsrEhEBQ96UuwCLcBGAs/s200/customer-relationship-management-crm.jpg" width="200" /></a>In order to really make an impact in your community, you should
look at every day as another opportunity to meet someone new. Introduce yourself
to someone that you haven’t met previously. We tend to stay in our comfort
zones of relationships. Sadly, that will never broaden our sphere of influence
and it certainly will not have any positive effect on our work for the Kingdom. </div>
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Once the proper introductions are made you can begin to integrate yourself into
their life through either general conversation or perhaps later on in a more intimate
discussion of ideas and philosophies. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HC-67jRMvR8/XH8BhyUpNtI/AAAAAAAACMk/nDFWTg4sD_I_GKgDm9W7IK5qEpJHsKTNgCLcBGAs/s1600/self-promo-300x247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="248" data-original-width="300" height="164" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HC-67jRMvR8/XH8BhyUpNtI/AAAAAAAACMk/nDFWTg4sD_I_GKgDm9W7IK5qEpJHsKTNgCLcBGAs/s200/self-promo-300x247.jpg" width="200" /></a>Once a deeper relationship is developed,
which may take some time, you can proceed to initiate a <o:p></o:p></div>
discussion on how the
Kingdom of God can be advanced. Be patient. Don’t rush into offering your ideas
until you have listened to their ideas. Listening to others is one of the best
ways to gain trust and respect. You cannot expect anyone to care about what you
are saying until they know that you care about what they are saying. <br />
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Author Larry James puts it this way,<o:p></o:p></div>
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“You call attention to yourself by paying attention to
others.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-54396212546739929322018-12-04T13:51:00.002-08:002018-12-04T13:51:45.640-08:00Tactical Recon: Concreteness<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Most knowledge
is abstract. Every thought begins in the mind as an abstract idea or notion. Abstract
thinking is one of the unique characteristics of human beings created in God’s
image and it is critical for the creation of concrete things. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, when abstract thinking remains within the
realm of the abstract world it loses its power. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">For example: When a child is
taught that 2+2=4 he may understand the concept. He may even be able to add
many numbers to one another in the abstract and even be able to perfectly understand
the principle behind addition and subtraction. However, it is only when he understands
through experience how addition and subtraction is applied to real life does he
have true knowledge. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">The child quickly learns that if he has 2 dollars and
another 2 dollars is added to</span></div>
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his original money, much more buying power is
available. Conversely, he also learns that if he has 2 dollars and 2 dollars is
taken from him, or he spends it, he loses his buying power. Only when the
abstract knowledge of addition and subtraction is brought concretely into the
child’s present reality does addition and subtraction become real. It is at
that time that addition and subtraction have concrete ramifications to the life
of the individual. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OhqmoB1KI6o/XAbzaW4mOCI/AAAAAAAACIc/HgbM01Vlup8hAvCL9E35UrCQNHjBr7QtACLcBGAs/s1600/concrete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OhqmoB1KI6o/XAbzaW4mOCI/AAAAAAAACIc/HgbM01Vlup8hAvCL9E35UrCQNHjBr7QtACLcBGAs/s1600/concrete.jpg" /></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">What makes the abstract concrete?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">When the
abstract can be experienced by the senses, in the real world, it becomes
concrete. Only that which is concrete is actually measurable. Concreteness also
becomes experiential while nothing in the abstract can. You cannot experience
abstractness. You may be able to understand it, but you cannot experience it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Case in point:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">“Iowan elementary school teacher Jane
Elliot once tried to explain the injustice of bigotry, racism and prejudice to
her third grade students without much success. These were merely abstractions that
these students did not understand. Even if they did understand bigotry and
hatred it still remained in the abstract. In order to transform the abstract
into a concrete reality she decided to conduct an experiment. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chip and Dan
Heath explain in their book, “Made To Stick.” <span style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span><i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">She came to the class…with a plan:
She aimed to make prejudice tangible to her</span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> students. At the start of class she
divided the students into two groups: brown-eyed kids and blue-eyed kids. She
then made a shocking announcement: Brown-eyed kids were superior to blue-eyed
kids. “They’re the better people in the room.” The groups were separated: Blue-eyed
kids were forced to sit at the back of the classroom. Brown-eyed kids were told
that they were smarter. They were even given extra time at recess. The blue-eyed
kids had to wear special collars so that everyone would know their eye color from
a distance. The two groups were not allowed to mix at recess. Elliot was
shocked at how quickly the students turned into nasty, vicious, discriminating
third graders. “It was ghastly” she said. “</i><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Elliot then
changed the rules. The next day she announced that it was actually the brown-eyed
children who were inferior and not the blue-eyed children. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">“This reversal of fortune was
embraced instantly….as [the blue-eyed students] ran to place their collars on their
lesser brown-eyed counterparts. On the day when they were in the inferior group,
students described themselves as sad, bad, stupid, and mean….Even their performance
on academic tasks changed….Elliot’s simulation made prejudice concrete –
brutally concrete.”</span></i><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">
</span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">P112<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Within the
realm of Christian Reconstruction, concreteness is the only thing that really brings
about change by making it real and measurable. One can contemplate deconstructing
the public school system, for example, but without a concrete alternative to
the concrete problem nothing can be achieved. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Authors
Chip and Dan Heath also give this example:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">“A V-8 engine is concrete. ‘A high performance’
vehicle is abstract.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Concreteness
can be defined as real people doing real things which are experienced in real
life, and which are measurable in time and history. Simply put, concreteness is
when specific people do specific things. When it comes to cultural renovation
concreteness is the only valid answer to fulfilling the dominion mandate. Everything
else is just abstract talk; head-scratching and pontificating.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YUpPJdV_3Kk/XAb17RCNh7I/AAAAAAAACJQ/wp0aDHuNPus0_ucYuR9jD5q7Sy9tjKhewCLcBGAs/s1600/743735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="428" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YUpPJdV_3Kk/XAb17RCNh7I/AAAAAAAACJQ/wp0aDHuNPus0_ucYuR9jD5q7Sy9tjKhewCLcBGAs/s320/743735.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><br />Concreteness
is what gives abstractness its power. It is the foundation of abstract thought.
In fact, the abstract demands the concrete in order to bring it to life in the
real world. Without the aid of the concrete the abstract is destined to die on
the vine of empty theoretics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">The Heath brothers
put it this way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">“Trying to teach an abstract
principle without concrete foundations is like trying to start a house by
building a roof in the air.” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Achievable Targets<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Concreteness
makes solutions attainable. It cuts through the confusion by </span></div>
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making the targeted
end more visible and by putting the target in both an understandable and reachable
framework. Once an abstract objective or strategy is put into a concrete tactical
framework the brain is mobilized. Concreteness focuses the brain on exactly
what needs to be done in order to bring to pass what was only conceptualized in
the abstract. If the dominion mandate of Christian Reconstruction is to ever transition
from the pure abstractness of discussion into the maturity of concreteness we
need to begin thinking in terms of actually doing something. To think only abstractly
is to accomplish nothing. To think concretely is to accomplish anything. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">If you wish
to discuss some concrete projects which you can begin in your community you can
private message me via Face Book or via my email at <a href="mailto:pastor@hisglory.us">pastor@hisglory.us</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1 Made To Stick by Chip and Dan Heath, Random House, New York, 2008</span></span></div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-79795624091749169662018-07-05T13:39:00.000-07:002018-07-05T13:39:38.313-07:00Tactical Recon: Making Ideas Happen<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JxOY2KVCM_M/Wz6APBJfanI/AAAAAAAACEQ/hr1O65aXFZYdfP2e64hVm5maXgMPcIOUgCLcBGAs/s1600/man%2Bthinking.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JxOY2KVCM_M/Wz6APBJfanI/AAAAAAAACEQ/hr1O65aXFZYdfP2e64hVm5maXgMPcIOUgCLcBGAs/s320/man%2Bthinking.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Once we have developed a significant rapport with our community,
and its leaders, by making ourselves visible and trustworthy, we can then begin
to transition from the discussion of ideas to the implementation of those
ideas. This is where the real work begins. It is far easier to discuss ideas
and possibilities than it is to actually execute them. Once an idea “hits the
street” the real vetting begins. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>IDEAS DON’T
JUST HAPPEN</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VvKgEgJFjY/Wz6AaVdFuwI/AAAAAAAACEU/GKSv-LjO694y2ib8nxB8MSLrX3GvrURuQCLcBGAs/s1600/working%2Bmen.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VvKgEgJFjY/Wz6AaVdFuwI/AAAAAAAACEU/GKSv-LjO694y2ib8nxB8MSLrX3GvrURuQCLcBGAs/s320/working%2Bmen.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
An idea doesn’t become a reality all by itself. Just because an
idea is great doesn’t mean it becomes concrete ex nihilo. No idea can take on a
life of its own out of nothing. Effort must be put forth for that idea to
become a reality. This also holds true when it comes to Biblical solutions to
real problems. Just because there is a Biblical solution to individual, family
or cultural problems does not mean that those problems will be solved. In order
for problems to be solved the solution must be applied. </div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The CEO of Behance, Scott
Belsky has it right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“The misconception that great ideas inevitably lead to success has
prevailed for too long. Whether you have the perfect solution for an everyday problem
or a bold new concept for a creative masterpiece, you must transform vision
into reality….having an idea is just a small part of the journey, perhaps only
1 percent of the journey”. </span><span style="font-size: 6.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">1</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 6.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-njEGggJxczs/Wz6AgVd5hVI/AAAAAAAACEY/raJHeFMDrkE_be94YI7qG5DLGuyUKnsTwCLcBGAs/s1600/darts.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-njEGggJxczs/Wz6AgVd5hVI/AAAAAAAACEY/raJHeFMDrkE_be94YI7qG5DLGuyUKnsTwCLcBGAs/s320/darts.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">TRANSFORMING
YOUR VISION: GOALS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In order for you to transform your vision into reality, you first
must set a goal. If you do not know what you are trying to achieve you can
never achieve it. The goal must also be measurable. You need to know whether or
not you have reached your goal. Secondly, that goal should be broken down into
sub categories or measurable check points. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check points help to either confirm our
direction of redirect it. They become safeguards so that we do not waste time
on efforts that are ineffective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncxOSjr8Aec/Wz6AlVAVdHI/AAAAAAAACEc/WEi-R36LinoOopKhAz4Jr0RsiHRqz4TpwCLcBGAs/s1600/organize.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1600" height="218" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncxOSjr8Aec/Wz6AlVAVdHI/AAAAAAAACEc/WEi-R36LinoOopKhAz4Jr0RsiHRqz4TpwCLcBGAs/s320/organize.jpeg" width="320" /></a><b>TRANSFORMING YOUR VISION: ORGANIZATION</b></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Every plan must be executed in an organized fashion. Organization
is essential for success. There are dozens of organizing tools available today
to assist in goal setting and organizational tactics. The list goes from old
school “Day Planners” to high tech Smart Phone apps which can help plot your
every move. Choose the one that is right for you. If it helps to organize your
vision then use it. I use the rule of three for every project that I undertake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n0BGq1Ukiu0/Wz6BSLRtGgI/AAAAAAAACEo/w24XwzHZss44j1KnzlDBAKV-HdVTgqlkwCLcBGAs/s1600/three.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="800" height="171" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n0BGq1Ukiu0/Wz6BSLRtGgI/AAAAAAAACEo/w24XwzHZss44j1KnzlDBAKV-HdVTgqlkwCLcBGAs/s200/three.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">THE RULE
OF THREE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The first question I ask is what three things need to be accomplished
to reach my goal. For instance; if my ultimate goal is to introduce a policy
change in the tax structure of my local community I need to figure out what
three things I need to do to get that accomplished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Perhaps I’d first want to build a relationship with a city councilman.
Then I’d want to do some research on the tax structure and what the city budget
is so I can see where cuts can be made. This might require building a relationship
with the tax assessor’s office and the city treasurer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The next step is to ask what three things need to be done each
week to bring this to pass. <br />
Then I’d figure out what three things I would have to do on a daily basis to
bring about my desired end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">These are not usually the same three things since to accomplish any
goal many things need to be done for its success. This requires organization
and focus both of which provides a manageable and measurable structure for the
execution of your ideas. The Rule of Three sets up the necessary “Action Steps”
which must be executed to reach your desired goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">TRANSFORMING
YOUR VISION: THE PROJECT</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T8rjomm_54o/Wz6BmzkKHSI/AAAAAAAACEw/MImmmsdf0NYknFIrO9kIGY3eSW-Nr76iQCLcBGAs/s1600/planning.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T8rjomm_54o/Wz6BmzkKHSI/AAAAAAAACEw/MImmmsdf0NYknFIrO9kIGY3eSW-Nr76iQCLcBGAs/s320/planning.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Every idea should be approached as a project with a beginning and
an ending point. It must be carefully organized and structured in such a way as
to prioritize each element of the components of that project in such a way as
to maximize its effect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Scott Belsky has a formula for making Idea’s happen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Making Ideas happen = ideas (as the catalyst) + Organization +
Communal forces + Leadership capability.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCuDAmISVoc/Wz6BsSUz3VI/AAAAAAAACE0/F2WAq3QPuwUKEzN8TprDEJdgucV0w3WNgCLcBGAs/s1600/subway%2B1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCuDAmISVoc/Wz6BsSUz3VI/AAAAAAAACE0/F2WAq3QPuwUKEzN8TprDEJdgucV0w3WNgCLcBGAs/s320/subway%2B1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A CASE
STUDY<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In 1994 we had a goal of handing out 100,000 gospel tracts, which would
be handed out throughout the New York City subway system during the evening
rush hour commute home. It was both an ambitious and an incredibly challenging
goal. The NYC subway system is huge, which meant that we not only needed
volunteers to man the many underground subway stations, we had to have a well
organized plan and everyone had to be familiar with it. This is where our
communal forces and our leadership capabilities became very important. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">First, we designated a room with a large wall-sized cork board. It
was fondly referred to as “The War </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-buSN-QYXGzY/Wz6BxPm_wNI/AAAAAAAACE4/Z1YYSSlbursLwq383l9HJO9fW1CG9rfPgCLcBGAs/s1600/subway%2B2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-buSN-QYXGzY/Wz6BxPm_wNI/AAAAAAAACE4/Z1YYSSlbursLwq383l9HJO9fW1CG9rfPgCLcBGAs/s320/subway%2B2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Room”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the top of the cork board we placed the
names of five designated “Team Leaders”, one leader for each of the five boroughs
of NYC; Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens and Staten Island. Each
Wednesday, the Team Leader would bring a case of Gospel tracts to a central
location within the subway station that he was assigned to. Under the names of
the Team Leaders were other names. These volunteer were to meet the Team Leader
with a back pack, fill it with tracts, and then disperse to their designated
subway system. Once on the subway platform each member of the team would hand
out tracts to those that were interested making sure that if any tracts were
thrown to the ground they would clean up the mess. After only a very short time
we had handed over 100,000 gospel tracts by using the NYC subway system.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-on2c-7eALLg/Wz6B2EsCXXI/AAAAAAAACE8/X89QjuGDqO4w5KDramVXQVCHv3jfFI-3gCLcBGAs/s1600/subway%2B3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-on2c-7eALLg/Wz6B2EsCXXI/AAAAAAAACE8/X89QjuGDqO4w5KDramVXQVCHv3jfFI-3gCLcBGAs/s320/subway%2B3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The
key to accomplishing that goal was organization, coupled with leadership and a
community of willing volunteers. The idea of handing out 100,000 tracts had only
become reality because it was organized as a project and then executed in real
time by real people. <br />
<br />
</span><span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">1 Making Ideas
Happen, By Scott Belsky, Penguin Press, 2012 pg1</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-78092735223683867242018-06-20T12:49:00.001-07:002018-06-20T12:49:52.936-07:00Tactical Recon: Intelligence Gathering<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Daab-M4bEOU/WyquPJIhdLI/AAAAAAAACDI/YyBvrhXWpWwL88YQbJsB4sSh-qvS1zG-QCLcBGAs/s1600/community%2Bleaders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="1070" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Daab-M4bEOU/WyquPJIhdLI/AAAAAAAACDI/YyBvrhXWpWwL88YQbJsB4sSh-qvS1zG-QCLcBGAs/s320/community%2Bleaders.jpg" width="320" /></a>When we seek to build influential rapport in any community
we must know the players of that community. A relationship with those that hold power and esteem in the community need to be developed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Know the players and you can
structure your interaction with them accordingly for the best possible outcome. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Knowing the influential people in your community is the key to positioning
yourself as a “shaker and a mover” (i.e. someone that can be trusted, with
insight and integrity to get a job done) within that community.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Knowing the people in your community works both ways. They
get to know you as you get to know them. This can be a tremendous benefit since
your visibility may encourage them to reach out you for certain community
projects or input. This is your goal. Position yourself as a community leader –
or at least as a community “wise man”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Strategy<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xOg-AyWMPIM/WyquJ3mwagI/AAAAAAAACDE/x1uW6PtJq4M9UYMM3guSvhCFegz0trYogCEwYBhgL/s1600/intell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xOg-AyWMPIM/WyquJ3mwagI/AAAAAAAACDE/x1uW6PtJq4M9UYMM3guSvhCFegz0trYogCEwYBhgL/s320/intell.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Simply by knowing people is not often enough to maintain
contact and interaction with them. You</div>
have to build a community data base. A
community data base is simply a written list of influential community people with
an area to include certain informational data to assist you in building a more intimate
rapport with them.<br />
<br />
The journal should include their name, where they work,
their position, and any personal information that will assist you in developing
a deeper relationship. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This journal should also include the time and date of each meeting
and what was discussed. This will help you develop a time line whereby you can
measure the depth and continuity of your rapport. Most importantly you should notate
your impressions as to their religious and philosophical worldview. Once you
know how they think you can craft a plan to educate them in the principles of
God’s Law and how to apply them to the culture. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XrXoQfyhCsk/WyqusXKAkpI/AAAAAAAACDU/v1R2mdacj002vmCcDNfxPLXHI48dtqDCQCLcBGAs/s1600/beautiful_colored_eye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="576" height="211" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XrXoQfyhCsk/WyqusXKAkpI/AAAAAAAACDU/v1R2mdacj002vmCcDNfxPLXHI48dtqDCQCLcBGAs/s320/beautiful_colored_eye.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Visuals<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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Most community leaders have had their pictures taken for the
local newspaper, or for social media. When you build your journal may want to
post their picture next to their name so that when you see them in the market
place or during a community even you can recognize them and address them by
name. </div>
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<br /></div>
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You can also do this with non- community leaders. These photos can
usually be accessed through their Face Book Page or some form of social media. </div>
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<br /></div>
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So often I am approached by someone in the grocery store that
is familiar by face but I cannot place from where I know them. There is no
context, which puts me at a disadvantage and I have to “fake it”. There’re
familiar to me and I know I know them since they obviously know me, but I am at
a loss since I have no reliable data to draw from. This is especially important
with those in the communities who are influential but are less visible.
Sometimes they are the ones who get things done – i.e. the town and county secretaries,
court clerks, bank managers, store managers, town managers, city and town city
workers, and of course the clergy.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Action Item</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aso2z5Qpqn0/Wyquxv3xWFI/AAAAAAAACDY/1LLxLy0mMX8XorxkakaPY4rKVhg4fe5DQCLcBGAs/s1600/journal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aso2z5Qpqn0/Wyquxv3xWFI/AAAAAAAACDY/1LLxLy0mMX8XorxkakaPY4rKVhg4fe5DQCLcBGAs/s320/journal.jpg" width="311" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
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Start building your data base. For those of you who like to
write things down, go out and purchase a note book or journal. Buy something ascetically
pleasing. If you purchase an ugly notebook you may hesitate to use it. Get something
you like and will use. Keep it in your car or in your briefcase, backpack, or
glove box. This will keep it handy after making an important contact that you’d
like to add to your data sheet. For those of you who are more “Techy” keep you
smart phone ready to add your notes so that when you are at your laptop or PC
you can log the info there. </div>
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<br /></div>
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This makes posting pictures in the log easier since
it is only a matter of cut and paste and you do not have to print and glue the
photo into your journal. </div>
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<br />
Purchase personal business cards. </div>
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<br /></div>
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This can simply be a card with your name, contact
info and a title if it is applicable. Make it a habit to liberally give away
your card. By offering your contact info you are telling people that you are open
to a call. It says I am offering myself to be involving in the community. By
giving others your card you also encourage others to give you their card. This
is the beginning of a relationship. As superficial as it may seem you never know
how it may develop. That is how you begin your intelligence gathering. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Now go and make some acquaintances. Build some
influential relationships. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-5536991205747110252018-06-13T11:23:00.001-07:002018-06-13T11:23:44.123-07:00Tactical Recon: Credentials <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCWBsQGe6R4/WyFcVm7y6uI/AAAAAAAACBA/x_jDFTBP5rMCkdT4Q1VQsEPxNanXYtHJACLcBGAs/s1600/diploma%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="254" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCWBsQGe6R4/WyFcVm7y6uI/AAAAAAAACBA/x_jDFTBP5rMCkdT4Q1VQsEPxNanXYtHJACLcBGAs/s1600/diploma%2B2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Credentials
and Influence<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">We live in an age where credentials matter. Professional
credentials are an indication that the individual holding those credentials has
been educated, trained and tested as to their knowledge and proficiency in that
particular discipline. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Credentials say to the outside world, “I
have studied, been tried and tested, and have been found by other professionals
proficient in my area of study whereby I am now to be considered an expert.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">If nothing else credentials prove that the
individual has gone through a rigorous educational gauntlet and has proven
himself worthy of the title conferred. Credentials open doors while the lack of
credentials closes them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Simply put, if
you have credentials you have power and influence in the community. Moreover,
when an individual has credentials he also has respect among his professional
peers. This is critical when seeking to position yourself within any community
for the Glory of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">No
More Excuses</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FecisKSuRnI/WyFc-QMwPnI/AAAAAAAACBQ/4fRZyTnxpAQxXd8w7hGvcqdb0qS5bwpPgCLcBGAs/s1600/results_or_excuses_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="307" data-original-width="307" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FecisKSuRnI/WyFc-QMwPnI/AAAAAAAACBQ/4fRZyTnxpAQxXd8w7hGvcqdb0qS5bwpPgCLcBGAs/s1600/results_or_excuses_.jpg" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">It seems as if in today’s modern age especially
amidst some Christian circles credentials are frowned upon. These folks use 1
John 2:27 as their excuse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>“But the anointing which ye have received of
him abideth in you, and <u>ye need not that any man teach you</u>…”</i><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Yet, this, however, does not mean that
Christians do not need teachers and mentors. Nor does it mean that academic or
profession letters after one’s name is superfluous and lacks meaning. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing can be further from the truth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Echoing
Jeremiah, Paul explains;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>And he gave some, apostles; and
some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the
perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the
body of Christ…</i> <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Eph 4:11-12</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">God tells Jeremiah that as a gift to His
Church He raises up teachers for the maturation and unity of the Saints.<br />
<br /> <i>And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed
you with knowledge and understanding.</i> <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Jer 3:15</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus Himself established the apostles as teachers
when He commissioned them in Matthew 28.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NuMn3PMqSNs/WyFdXyLgRNI/AAAAAAAACBY/3YHOO4-W1xUUKXt2FHQOl6i81Tjig8UcQCLcBGAs/s1600/yale-university-landscape.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NuMn3PMqSNs/WyFdXyLgRNI/AAAAAAAACBY/3YHOO4-W1xUUKXt2FHQOl6i81Tjig8UcQCLcBGAs/s320/yale-university-landscape.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">And so, to reject the importance of being
taught by notable teachers for the express purpose of becoming proficient in a
skill amounts to rebellion caused by either laziness or misinformation, which
will result in a lack of positioning power within the community.</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Teachers are a gift from God especially those
who teach of the things of God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The duty of every saint is to be proficient <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>first in the doctrine of God so as to be
notable teachers in the things of God. But when it comes to community influence,
recognition by the general populace is essential and that recognition comes by
way of credentials. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Credence
and the Open Door</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ihg5GHY7WCg/WyFehPOgo9I/AAAAAAAACBs/74vaNExIULQf-UMsju5GqyTYfMrvMPMIACLcBGAs/s1600/door.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="975" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ihg5GHY7WCg/WyFehPOgo9I/AAAAAAAACBs/74vaNExIULQf-UMsju5GqyTYfMrvMPMIACLcBGAs/s320/door.jpeg" width="240" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">As a minister within our community I have
enjoyed professional recognition among both my pastoral colleagues and the
community at large simply because I am an ordained minister. In 2001 that may
have been enough. In 2018 it is no longer the case. Letters among the clergy
are almost a necessity if they are to be taken seriously by their peers and the
general community. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">And so in 2004 I decided to go back to school (not an easy
thing) to obtain my graduate degrees. That decision proved to be invaluable. I
cannot stress enough how many additional opportunities God has brought to me
simply because I had letters of academic proficiency after my name.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">With a professional testimony the individual
can begin to interject his or her ideas of influence into many community areas.
As professionals we can offer our services on a volunteer basis in order to “get
a foot in the door” for greater opportunities. As professionals we can set
ourselves up so as to be “called upon” for our professional analysis and
recommendation dealing with sensitive cultural issues. This is the key to
positioning. This is one of the concrete tactics of Christian Recon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>What to Do? Where to Begin?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FTkQdUI0nXk/WyFfLnlC08I/AAAAAAAACB0/miHNN7HxVwIjs2zlTDkmPgKfxXBAhm52wCLcBGAs/s1600/courtroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="497" height="171" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FTkQdUI0nXk/WyFfLnlC08I/AAAAAAAACB0/miHNN7HxVwIjs2zlTDkmPgKfxXBAhm52wCLcBGAs/s320/courtroom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you are able to go back to school do so. Get a degree in something of cultural
value. Most of you reading this are Christians so you may wish to look into a
theologically based degree. Christian counseling may be an area where you can
start since there are many volunteer programs that can use that knowledge and
skill. At our New Geneva College (newgeneva.us) we train our students in many
areas from a Christian Recon position of community activism and service so they
can be a driving force for CR. This is just one idea but there are many. <br />
<br />
For further discussion on training and obtaining an academic degree you can
write to me personally at <a href="mailto:pastor@hisglory.us">pastor@hisglory.us</a><br />
<br />Several years ago I was asked to be an expert witness in a court
case in Canada. What I learned was priceless. It seems as if the Canadians
think very highly of individuals with professional degrees. I was told that if
an American comes to Canada with “any” graduate credentials, i.e. PhD, ThD,
M.Div. MACS, MAR etc, he or she will have no trouble getting employment in a
very worthy position with an impressive pay scale.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
At one point, in the very lengthy court testimony, I was asked for my opinion to
which I responded, “Would you like my professional analysis on that?” To which the
jurist answered, “That is the only reason why you are here. I want your
professional opinion.” One of the lawyers for the family I was representing later
told me later that the jurist had a very high regard for my credentials (any
American credentials for that matter) and that is what swayed him to render a
favorable decision in our behalf.<br />
<br />
It was on that day that I fully realized what influence professional credentials
have in the affairs of men. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ynxiwy-wSGI/WyFeDRKARSI/AAAAAAAACBg/hBSF_tr7HIQQ9pkPTHsU6FEjTPdZBrfvwCLcBGAs/s1600/volunteer-agencyimg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ynxiwy-wSGI/WyFeDRKARSI/AAAAAAAACBg/hBSF_tr7HIQQ9pkPTHsU6FEjTPdZBrfvwCLcBGAs/s320/volunteer-agencyimg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Volunteer to be placed on a county, city or town board. Those manning certain local governing boards have clout. These are the decision makers of the community. Rub shoulders with these people. Get to know them. Get them to know you but remember the principles of my previous blog recommendation about listening and building rapport.</span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Volunteer
at a local food kitchen or start one at your local church. Call the mayor to
participate and any other governing officials. Ask them to assist. Call the
local newspaper for coverage. Become visible. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I’m sure there are
family counseling centers in your area. Some might even be Christian based. This
too is a great place to volunteer. We were involved in the Blue Ridge Pregnancy
Center for years. In this venue you get to impress upon these mothers the
importance of having the baby and not aborting it. Use the time spent in that
position as another serviceable skill in your resume as you continue building your
credentials. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></span><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The CASA volunteer program.
These are the letters for <b><u>C</u></b>ourt
<b><u>A</u></b>ppointed <b><u>S</u></b>pecial <b><u>A</u></b>dvocate. The CASA is a court appointed official whose duty
it is to assists children who have been neglected or abused by their parents
and who have been taken into the foster care system. This is usually in the
case of severe parental substance abuse, sexual abuse and/or various traumatic
events that place the child in a dangerous position. The CASA is the voice for
the child and advocates for the child’s best interest hopefully working with various
government, counseling and ecclesiastic entities to eventually return the child to the parent, or if that is
absolutely impossible to secure an adoption family for that child until the age
of 18. This is a rigorous training program and should not be considered lightly.
The rewards, however, are great, and the possibility to make serious positive
changes for the child, the families and even the institutions involved is also
great. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></span><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Sacrifice
is Essential</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HPQbeJSx2nQ/WyFfegEpt6I/AAAAAAAACB8/cDOCFS-VIewut6_4Ywj7NEMXNUjPPoP8gCLcBGAs/s1600/living-sacrifices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="975" data-original-width="1300" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HPQbeJSx2nQ/WyFfegEpt6I/AAAAAAAACB8/cDOCFS-VIewut6_4Ywj7NEMXNUjPPoP8gCLcBGAs/s200/living-sacrifices.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">While these concrete tactics
suggest some powerful ways of insuring serious lasting Biblical changes in your
local community, it is of no avail if you are not willing to sacrifice yourself
for others in the advancement of the Kingdom. Talking, writing, debating and/or
arguing about how to advance the Kingdom of God will come to nothing if
something is not actually executed in your local community. Everything begins
with your willingness to die to self and serve the living Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i> And whosoever
shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in
the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his
reward.</i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mt 10:42</span></span><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">My graduate degrees took 3 years to complete. My
Doctoral work had been a work in the making for almost 20 years. I am presently
taking courses and am undergoing advanced training in several non-Theological
disciplines for targeted positions of influence. Learning should be constant. Educational
accomplishments impress people. It shows that you are a devoted and diligent
scholar. But be sure that whatever your degree is it is something that can be
used for the Advancement of God’s Kingdom. Having an academic degree for the
sake of having an academic degree is simply a prideful thing. We have too many “Ivory
Towers” of academia. We do not need any more. What we need is honest people who
want to use their accomplishments for the Glory of God in the real world. Your
degree must have a concrete reason behind it otherwise you are wasting your
time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-9225489437550763022018-06-06T11:38:00.001-07:002018-06-06T11:38:26.344-07:00Tactical Recon: Listen & Convey <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IF8ERcII274/Wxgn_8oOBbI/AAAAAAAACAI/sURWVSl7hdY36mZkWRXk9dg281K-R6wggCLcBGAs/s1600/listen.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IF8ERcII274/Wxgn_8oOBbI/AAAAAAAACAI/sURWVSl7hdY36mZkWRXk9dg281K-R6wggCLcBGAs/s320/listen.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Listen carefully; and
then listen some more. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No one likes to be preached to. As Christians we are
naturally ready (or should be ready) to give an apologetical answer for every
question that others may ask concerning Scripture, and its application to the real
world. However, when seeking to build rapport with those in your community, you
must suppress the urge to argue them into what you are proposing. The more you
try to convince someone, if you have not developed an intimate and open relationship
first, the more they may resist. <br /><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What we must remember is that people really do not want to
hear what anyone else has to say. They may listen for a moment, but only so
that when their turn comes they can talk about themselves. In fact, very often,
while they are listening to someone else’s story they are eagerly waiting for
their turn to tell a better story or relate a more exciting experience they
had. <br /><br />People love to share their experiences more than they like to listen to
the experiences of others no matter how exciting they may be. And so before any one will listen to us we must first listen
to them.<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Convey vs Convince</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LruS3llRhgo/WxgoG5PRvWI/AAAAAAAACAM/A8JFrhfee4MLjIfcG46jh1tfPRxXx5DZACLcBGAs/s1600/abc.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LruS3llRhgo/WxgoG5PRvWI/AAAAAAAACAM/A8JFrhfee4MLjIfcG46jh1tfPRxXx5DZACLcBGAs/s320/abc.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>Once an opportunity opens where you can actually get their
attention do not try to convince your hearers of anything. Instead of laboring
to change their mind via a convincing argument, simply convey pertinent
information to them. Give your audience the necessary data to form an educated
opinion. When you convey information to your hearers, you are equipping them to
think in a particular way which hopefully results in a change of mind.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be careful not to try to convince your hearer that your
ideas are the best. Simply convey the facts, and the way those ideas can be
implemented for a better community and then let God deal with the individual.
Remember, Convey do not try to Convince. Present the Truth and then gauge the
response.<br /><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VMVg0ng7-SY/WxgoNqOi0kI/AAAAAAAACAQ/msrKNh4eJEQxz4oXYdJ7WI8JShOytu9PQCLcBGAs/s1600/question%2Bmark.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="969" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VMVg0ng7-SY/WxgoNqOi0kI/AAAAAAAACAQ/msrKNh4eJEQxz4oXYdJ7WI8JShOytu9PQCLcBGAs/s320/question%2Bmark.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Tactic: Ask Questions<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best way to make people feel more at ease is to ask them
open ended questions allowing them to control the situation. Open ended
questions make them fell as if they are controlling the discussion when in
reality they are divulging their philosophical world and life views giving you
an accurate idea of where they are coming from ideologically and theologically.
Get them talking. You’d be surprised how people are apt to open up. This will
determine whether or not the relationship is worth cultivating, or to want extent
it is worth cultivating. Remember every relationship is important – some more
than others. <br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Visibility, Availability
& Consistency</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Un8_oo-K7zk/WxgoTmkKoNI/AAAAAAAACAk/6a0omKZs5xQmu7wI0BA6eofNtGV6zyeGwCEwYBhgL/s1600/visibility%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="480" height="224" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Un8_oo-K7zk/WxgoTmkKoNI/AAAAAAAACAk/6a0omKZs5xQmu7wI0BA6eofNtGV6zyeGwCEwYBhgL/s400/visibility%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be available and be consistent. This strategy will not work
if you do not make yourself available to the community. If you really want to make
an impact in the culture you must be visible. Furthermore, your efforts must be
consistent. If you find it difficult to make yourself visible then make it a
point to frequently walk through the local Walmart just to look for opportunity to engage people
you know or people you believe you need to know. If you wish to be a positive force
in your community force you must be a visible force of availability and
consistency.</div>
<br />
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-34424264461750106642018-05-31T08:57:00.001-07:002018-05-31T08:57:54.714-07:00Tactical Recon: Rapport & The Human Element<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFCyd3KyGlA/WxAYlDyIE4I/AAAAAAAAB_E/IJs8hA1QZLQeRQFL1ockN1CA9G8Bl1vdgCLcBGAs/s1600/people%2Blaughing.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFCyd3KyGlA/WxAYlDyIE4I/AAAAAAAAB_E/IJs8hA1QZLQeRQFL1ockN1CA9G8Bl1vdgCLcBGAs/s320/people%2Blaughing.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It’s All about Human
Contact<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Christian Reconstruction was never meant to be impersonal
but rather relational. Institutions are not persons in the sense that they
cannot be related to as one would relate to another human being. You cannot
build rapport with institutions. Institutions are comprised of people. If an
institution is to be transformed the people of that institution need to be
transformed first. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />The way this is accomplished is by building a positive relationship
with its administrators. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For instance: The institution of a community’s judiciary is
not some vague and impersonal institution. It is made up of real people;
judges, commonwealth attorneys, defense attorneys, court officers, the DSS
workers, even the staffers who work in the records department. Changing any
institution requires the changing of its people. Human interaction is the key.
That is where ideas are shared and policies developed. This is where CR beings.
Any strategy which neglects or minimizes the human element is destined to fail.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R5d8DZ3TIhA/WxAYxphbnhI/AAAAAAAAB_I/AqzK_-caNxcDNHox-7GJ0yCsCg8Gbj-SwCLcBGAs/s1600/victoria-station.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="1600" height="196" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R5d8DZ3TIhA/WxAYxphbnhI/AAAAAAAAB_I/AqzK_-caNxcDNHox-7GJ0yCsCg8Gbj-SwCLcBGAs/s320/victoria-station.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Challenge<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In order to exact Biblical change in any culture one must
first challenge the secular status quo of that culture. People are not easily
convinced. They are not easily responsive to any changes in what they know or
what they are used to no matter how detrimental it is to them. This is especially
true when they are suspicious of those encouraging change. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Begin with the ‘Who’
and Establish a Rapport<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Building rapport with people is the foundational framework
for action. Build rapport and you can change the world. Positive interaction is
the path to establishing trust. Without trust nothing of consequence can
happen. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoVhJUeIZLQ/WxAZm0Vc-xI/AAAAAAAAB_U/9WAHEo5K3rMxbPmYj4TjBWgpjofTu0mDQCLcBGAs/s1600/AA%2Byouth.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoVhJUeIZLQ/WxAZm0Vc-xI/AAAAAAAAB_U/9WAHEo5K3rMxbPmYj4TjBWgpjofTu0mDQCLcBGAs/s320/AA%2Byouth.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Begin focusing on the individual. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Get to know the people in your community. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Integrate. Speak to all kinds of people who are
situated within your community. Do not let race, or social status get in the
way of your positioning goal. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Introduce yourself to everyone, especially those
in authority. As a minister this task is easy, but for a simple citizen it may
be a bit more challenging.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Don’t be afraid of initiating a conversation or
visiting your community officials for no other reason than for a personal
introduction. Talk to them. Engage them in conversation. Inquire as to their
situation.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Listen to them BEFORE you give anyone your
opinion. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Gather intel. Know where they stand on the
issues before you put your foot in your mouth and sever the relationship before
it gets started. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Build a contact list. Take their contact info –
give them yours. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rapport Tactics<br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tDxWZObUB5s/WxAaCJMCPkI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/u1KisleGFvcD7IkPZQ7S3nSlghSHqi3iACLcBGAs/s1600/liar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tDxWZObUB5s/WxAaCJMCPkI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/u1KisleGFvcD7IkPZQ7S3nSlghSHqi3iACLcBGAs/s200/liar.jpg" width="200" /></a></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Janine Driver’s book, “You Can’t Lie To Me”, the world
renown body language expert for the CIA, FBI, ATF and the International Chief
of Police, explains that in order to gain trust your body language and your
intention must match. When speaking with people you must be open and welcoming
in your posture. That means hands out of the pockets, arms not crossed, and no
looking around as if you’re waiting for a helicopter to land on your head. You
get the point.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eye contact is also important. Aim for steady but not
oppressive eye contact. Staring or squinting can get a bit creepy so be calm
and relaxed. Driver advises that in order to gain trust one must lead with
empathy by putting yourself in the other person’s situation. That requires
listening as well as being transparent, or as Driver phrases it, “Being Human.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She says,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Being in rapport with someone [is] having them feel warm
and trusting toward you [which] increases the likelihood that they well be
honest with you….Building rapport convinces people that you are trustworthy and
makes them want to help you…People in rapport with each other are predisposed
to co-operation” </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">pg 78</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These tactics are essential if relationships are to be
built. Once that is established then, and only then, can you begin to explore
relevant hot topics of the day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZViD52I_oAc/WxAapWmbW_I/AAAAAAAAB_k/RHF61zxhyS0MQdoDXGsvxRXkyMYWGtJ7wCLcBGAs/s1600/goals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="198" data-original-width="255" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZViD52I_oAc/WxAapWmbW_I/AAAAAAAAB_k/RHF61zxhyS0MQdoDXGsvxRXkyMYWGtJ7wCLcBGAs/s1600/goals.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to Christian counseling professionals, Sbanotto,
Gingrich and Gingrich, there is an early, middle, and then later sequence for
realizing a particular goal. Within our realm of CR it may look something like
the following:<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Early Sequence<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Initial contact:</u> This is where the rapport building begins
to take place.<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Middle Sequence<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Commitment:</u> During this middle sequence there is the
development of a higher level of contact even a freedom to discuss ideas. This
is the point where you might begin to introduce various CR ideas. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Intimacy:</u> From this posture of willingness to discuss
ideas there should be a growing Intimacy where deeper discussions being to
emerge. At this stage there is a comfortable relationship between you and the
other person. This is where your ideas can be further explored in detail. This
is a critical point in your relationship. If you have developed a trustworthy
rapport your ideas will at least be given audience.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Later</b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sequence<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Implementation:</u> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is where you begin to find common ground
as to implementing Biblical principles and policies, and where the application
begins. At this point you will want to suggest a specific course of action
hoping that your hearer will agree to its veracity.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Stimulation:</u> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At this juncture your ideas not only resonate
with your hearer, but that your hearer will be stimulated enough to share your
ideas with others with the intent of implementing them within the community and
possibly joining in an effort to bring these ideas to fruition.</div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-48189390344949718822018-05-23T08:31:00.001-07:002018-05-23T12:59:31.085-07:00Tactical Recon - Positioning: The Key to Christian Reconstruction <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta1b8BcZKJQ/WwWEVuEfoOI/AAAAAAAAB9s/BphfDtXFhjMBOASzNh0pNKqQwK7UBhK8ACLcBGAs/s1600/chick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="750" height="182" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta1b8BcZKJQ/WwWEVuEfoOI/AAAAAAAAB9s/BphfDtXFhjMBOASzNh0pNKqQwK7UBhK8ACLcBGAs/s320/chick.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Whenever a plan is hatched, which relies heavily upon influencing
people with new ideas, it must be realized that such an endeavor takes TIME.
One of the problems with the modern CR movement is lack of patience. CR (Christian Reconstruction) is not
a quick fix. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Long term planning is essential. Successes and failures need to be
experienced. It may take years to gain respect and trust. Convincing the
citizenry of your integrity and your willingness to be a part of the community,
and a positive force in its well being, is a long term endeavor. Superficial involvement
will accomplish nothing. You cannot simply enter into a community and dictate
how you think it should be structured. If you go into CR with a big head of steam you will be shut out and no one will
ever listen to you no matter how great your ideas are. Remember CR is about
people. Care for people and they will care about what you have to say.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Read “Singleness of
Purpose”</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://ambassadorschool.blogspot.com/2017/04/singleness-of-purpose.html">http://ambassadorschool.blogspot.com/2017/04/singleness-of-purpose.html</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Maintenance &
Monitoring<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfHrEtnUWqE/WwWFKfLC8pI/AAAAAAAAB90/XCqpqkJb14Ix1XBbVpL5jiyUseeoHgFOgCLcBGAs/s1600/monitoring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="720" height="158" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfHrEtnUWqE/WwWFKfLC8pI/AAAAAAAAB90/XCqpqkJb14Ix1XBbVpL5jiyUseeoHgFOgCLcBGAs/s320/monitoring.jpg" width="320" /></a>Once a strategy is agreed upon, and the plan is enacted, it
must be maintained and monitored. Commitment to the long term is
essential. Well meaning people begin all kinds of ministries but very few bring
it to efficacious fruition. It is very easy to begin a thing, it is much more
difficult to maintain it over time. Only after a certain amount of time has
elapsed can a determination be made whether that plan is accomplishing what it
was set out to do. That means concrete goals and measuring points must be first
established before executing any CR effort. If you cannot measure a
strategy, you cannot know if it is working. Sometimes results are evident
immediately while at other times results are slow to come. Every result has its
own time clock. Proper analysis, therefore, takes time. A projects means absolutely nothing
unless it can be maintained and groomed into something effective. This is a
long term effort.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Read “Intensity of Purpose”</b><br />
<a href="http://ambassadorschool.blogspot.com/2017/01/intensity-of-purpose.html">http://ambassadorschool.blogspot.com/2017/01/intensity-of-purpose.html</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">How to Measure Positioning
Success<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MyskTVWgd7s/WwWGZEG8PLI/AAAAAAAAB-A/dc9gvCwt-OgwJBz--yhXpXyZp9oHHKgEQCLcBGAs/s1600/meeting.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MyskTVWgd7s/WwWGZEG8PLI/AAAAAAAAB-A/dc9gvCwt-OgwJBz--yhXpXyZp9oHHKgEQCLcBGAs/s320/meeting.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Depending on your goal, success is measured differently. If
the goal is community positioning and cultural influence, success is measured
in a number of ways.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ask first:</b> <b>“What does influence look like in the community?”
</b><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Do people seek your advice or opinion? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Are
they interested in your political analysis on current issues? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Do
they call on you when there is a decision to be made on certain community issues? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Does
the local store owner or postal clerk confide in you asking for some response
to their situation or a community issue? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Can
you comfortably call upon any local or state wide government officials for a
sit down? <br />
Do
they call upon you for a sit down? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>How
often do government official ask you to join them for lunch? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Are
you able to address your community leaders by name? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>When
in a crowd do community leaders, or state reps go out of their way to greet you
or are you invisible until the next fundraising event? And do they greet you by
name? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Will
the local newspaper editor print your letters without editing?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Cq0UCL2r1w/WwWIVQbaX4I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/cVesQFPXeOE3xhPaiebkdEuCWo_ksylXQCLcBGAs/s1600/mic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1242" data-original-width="1545" height="257" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Cq0UCL2r1w/WwWIVQbaX4I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/cVesQFPXeOE3xhPaiebkdEuCWo_ksylXQCLcBGAs/s320/mic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Are
you asked to speak, or pray, at local political rallies, events or meetings? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">●</span>Does
the dispatch at the local sheriff’s office, the staffs personal, the sheriff
and his deputies know who you are; by name?<br />
<br />
These are some of the ways you can know if you hold any clout in your local
community. Visibility is the part of the success of community positioning. Positioning is getting into a community or a culture and
visibly integrating yourself within that community or culture so that you are
trusted. Only when people know you, and trust you, will they listen to you.<br />
<br />
Nothing of Godly change can happen unless this happens first. I cannot stress
this enough.<br />
<b>Get to know the people in your community.</b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Here are some things
you can do to position yourself in your community.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Observe city, town, and county meetings. Rub
shoulders with the officials. Ask questions. At first do not offer advice or
opinion. Not yet anyway. Make yourself visible. Build trust.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Join the Chamber of Commerce if you have a
business or just observe their meetings.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Apply with the county office to get onto a county
committee. Serve in a community endeavor. Get to know the players.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Go to school board meetings. This will assist in
analyzing their policies and keep an eye on their budget. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Many communities have art shows, festivals and various
events all of which have a steering committee. Volunteer your time. Get to know
the people. Gather intel. Be personable. Build a reputation of integrity. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Introduce yourself to the local sheriff,
postmaster and clerks. Visit the treasurer’s office. Learn his or her name and
be able to recognize them in the marketplace so you can greet them by name. The
treasure holds a critical position in the community. <br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
The list of possibilities is exhaustive.
Be creative. Get out from under the social media tyranny and away from the Face
Book keyboard and get into your community and show yourself. Otherwise you are
simply involved in a teapot tempest preaching to the choir. Nothing of
importance will ever be accomplished.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MGb_YXFSkb4/WwWJD-D3uVI/AAAAAAAAB-s/1voUWIeP3NM7DNSwUi5JvRUUd1jku7xKQCLcBGAs/s1600/Integrity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="698" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MGb_YXFSkb4/WwWJD-D3uVI/AAAAAAAAB-s/1voUWIeP3NM7DNSwUi5JvRUUd1jku7xKQCLcBGAs/s320/Integrity.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Be; and then you can Do<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
Only when you have shown yourself
trustworthy, as a knowledgeable individual with character integrity can you do
anything of value.<br />
<br />
You must first BE, so that you can DO.</div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-83634311708491060382018-05-16T11:07:00.000-07:002018-05-16T13:16:54.965-07:00Tactical Reconstruction <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tactical Reconstruction
aka Tactical Recon <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYhRVJE84no/WvxrTQ-hTnI/AAAAAAAAB7s/SKjV6-h9UZoNJHMaiCsuOkkk0cUQIsTVQCLcBGAs/s1600/construction%2Bbridge.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="1600" height="226" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYhRVJE84no/WvxrTQ-hTnI/AAAAAAAAB7s/SKjV6-h9UZoNJHMaiCsuOkkk0cUQIsTVQCLcBGAs/s320/construction%2Bbridge.jpeg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With all the talk of Christian Reconstruction, (CR), and the
duty of Christians to advance the Kingdom of Christ, there is more talk these
days than real action. While disseminating information and ideas is good, even
important, and usually begins the process of CR, it is not, in and of itself,
enough. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In fact, if all there is is talk, then it no longer amounts to CR or
the actual work of Advancing Christ’s Kingdom. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If CR discussions never amount to actionable and measurable results
it cannot, by definition, be called CR. Perhaps it should be called “Recon Pontification”.
CR must be actionable so that it can be measured to see if it has been
effective. Only then can we claim to be reconstructionists.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What is Tactical
Recon (TR)<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GrTpQ02OVXE/WvxrspfF9jI/AAAAAAAAB70/yWSH-4hWZZQmFjkZcTqJgan3iwHnUO5sgCLcBGAs/s1600/hammer-sledgehammer-mallet-tool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1290" data-original-width="1600" height="160" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GrTpQ02OVXE/WvxrspfF9jI/AAAAAAAAB70/yWSH-4hWZZQmFjkZcTqJgan3iwHnUO5sgCLcBGAs/s200/hammer-sledgehammer-mallet-tool.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">CR must have concrete directives and goal all of which
result in a measurable community change God-ward. Without the actual
application of a concrete plan nothing of any consequence can ever happen. The introduction,
execution and monitoring of a tactical plan within a given community is what CR
should be about. Anything less is just cheap talk. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Plan<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aqvXtv7DMMI/WvxsYnlIFaI/AAAAAAAAB8A/BFJ3d1DwZFE9LrK5PElCZZpJuM-SKXIxwCLcBGAs/s1600/adult-architect-blueprint-416405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aqvXtv7DMMI/WvxsYnlIFaI/AAAAAAAAB8A/BFJ3d1DwZFE9LrK5PElCZZpJuM-SKXIxwCLcBGAs/s320/adult-architect-blueprint-416405.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tactical Recon will periodically post in detail, various
community action plans that have already been executed, are still being executed,
or will be executed by Christian Reconstructionists locally, within the realm
of the U.S., and in the international community. <br />
<br />
TR will explain why these plans were considered, how they were executed, if
they succeeded or failed and why, what might have been done differently for a greater
impact and how are they being maintained. <br />
<br />
TR will also set forth a “success barometer” so certain plans can be accurately
measured. In other words, how does one measure the success of a certain community
action program? Is every community action program measured by the same
standard? What are the goals of the plan and are their benchmarks being set to
know whether or not the plan is effectual? All these are questions that must be
taken into consideration when advancing Christ’s agenda.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Essential
Questions<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K5uGSaVFCCk/WvxySO8I_mI/AAAAAAAAB8c/uLY_48MH2EcpRIz3NijoifGmlgouWNCswCLcBGAs/s1600/pexels-photo-355952.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1112" data-original-width="1600" height="222" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K5uGSaVFCCk/WvxySO8I_mI/AAAAAAAAB8c/uLY_48MH2EcpRIz3NijoifGmlgouWNCswCLcBGAs/s320/pexels-photo-355952.jpeg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Whenever an action plan is considered one must first figure
out the area(s) to target. And so we ask the questions of: Who? What? Where?
When? How? and most importantly Why?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Who</i></b> do we target, i.e. what group or institution?<br /><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What</i>
</b>needs to be targeted and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How</i></b> do we propose to initiate the
plan?<br /><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Where</i></b>
is this plan to be executed; locally, state-wide, politically, the clergy, community groups , law enforcement, home school groups, school boards, social workers,
postal workers, businesses, etc?<br /><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When</i></b>
is the best time to execute the plan?<br /><br />
And <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Why
</i></b>are we seeking to address this issue with this plan?<br />
<br />
Once these questions are answered CR can begin in earnest.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Schedule <br />
</b><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7jDOh7xfQHI/WvxywTGDy6I/AAAAAAAAB8k/LRYBbS0Cy0MFMihsuIihMY39T4MCXhdVwCLcBGAs/s1600/clocks.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="958" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7jDOh7xfQHI/WvxywTGDy6I/AAAAAAAAB8k/LRYBbS0Cy0MFMihsuIihMY39T4MCXhdVwCLcBGAs/s320/clocks.jpeg" width="235" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This Ambassador School Blog will take up these discussions concerning Tactical
Recon by posting various Actionable Plans that anyone can execute in their own
community. They will be detailed descriptions of What, Where, When, How and Why
they were executed and the effects which they had, if any, on the community and
its people. <br />
<br /><b>UP NEXT: </b></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>“Positioning: The Key to Christian Reconstruction”</b></span></div>
<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-83583827139377917972017-11-24T15:25:00.000-08:002017-11-24T15:25:04.350-08:00The Offering of a Thankful Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1WxuZD5a3lM/WhimEmF895I/AAAAAAAABrg/aW-nAMK7ZFQ7TIZJZyEZvmsv_yoO56g-gCLcBGAs/s1600/sadducees-pharisees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1WxuZD5a3lM/WhimEmF895I/AAAAAAAABrg/aW-nAMK7ZFQ7TIZJZyEZvmsv_yoO56g-gCLcBGAs/s320/sadducees-pharisees.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The over-all message of
Psalm 50 is actually a rebuke upon the Religious hypocrite who is determined to
ACT OUT VARIOUS religious rituals, but refuses to offer God the Thanksgiving-Glory
due Him. The Psalmist Asaph is warning the hypocrite to mend his ways by
reflecting upon the UNSEEN Saviour Who is <u>only</u> SEEN by the eye of Faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">While the hypocrite is <i><u>able</u></i> to perform outward works, in
a show of religious observances, he is unable to manufacture sincere gratitude
for the work of Grace. He is unable to be sincerely thankful for the various
Providences that have blessed him and guided him throughout his life, simply
because he has not <i><u>actually</u></i> experienced
the work of grace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">This Psalm is a wake-up call
for <u>all </u>of us, who have reaped an abundance of God’s Blessings, and yet
remain in a posture of murmuring and discontentment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Jonathan Edwards notes that…<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>“Affections that are truly spiritual and gracious…arise
from those influences and operations on the heart, which are spiritual and
Divine.”</i></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Religious Affections p 197</span></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">According to the puritans, Edwards and Thomas Shepherd,
Asaph the Psalmist is exposing <u>two kinds of hypocrites</u>; the Legal and
the Evangelical.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Edwards observes,<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>“There are two sorts of hypocrites: the first, are
deceived with their outward morality and external religion… The other, are
those that are deceived with <u>false discoveries</u> and elevations, which
often cry down works, and men’s own righteousness, and talk much of free grace,
but at the same time, make a righteousness of their discoveries, and of their
humiliation, and exalt themselves to heaven with them. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>These two kinds of hypocrites Mr. Shepherd, in his
ex-position of the Parable of the 10 Virgins, distinguishes by the names of legal and evangelical hypocrites, and often speaks of the latter as the
worst. And ‘tis evident that the latter are commonly by far the most confident
in their hope, and with the most difficulty brought from it.” </i></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Ibid P173</span><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Asaph identifies the first hypocrite as one that is
deceived by the keeping of outward ceremonies in verses 9-13 he is the
legalist.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 50:9 I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he
goats out of thy folds. 10 For every beast of the forest is mine, and the
cattle upon a thousand hills. 11 I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the
wild beasts of the field are mine. 12 If I were hungry, I would not tell thee:
for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof. 13 Will I eat the flesh of
bulls, or drink the blood of goats?</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">In these verses Aspah
identifies the Evangelical moralist, who is actually an antinomian, who relates
to the Covenant of Free Grace, but is void of true Love toward God by not
being thankful. T</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">hat is the test of sincere
love and appreciation toward God. i.e. A thankful heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Asaph continues to explain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 50:16 ¶ But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou
to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy
mouth? 17 Seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behind thee.</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Asaph tells both of these hypocrites in verse 14 to…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>… Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the
most High...<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The problem with the hypocrite
is that he holds onto <u>a false hope</u>, and a <u>false confidence </u>that
he is one of God’s Elect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Again Edwards observes.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>“When once a hypocrite is thus established in a false
hope, he hasn’t those things to cause him to call his hope into question, that
often times, by the occasion of the doubting of true Saints. At first, he
hasn’t that cautious spirit, that great sense of the vast importance of a sure
foundation, and that dread of being deceived. <u>The comforts of the true
Saints increase awakening and caution, and a lively sense how great a thing it
is to appear before an infinitely holy, just in of mission to judge.</u> But
false comforts put an end to these things, and dreadfully stupefy the mind. Secondly,
the hypocrite has not the knowledge of his own blindness, and the deceitfulness
of his own heart, and that mean opinion of his own understanding, that the true
Saints has. Those that are diluted with false discoveries and affections, are
ever more highly conceded of their light and understanding.”</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Drawing from the Law of God
in Leviticus 7:12, Asaph reminds the hypocrite that a </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bd5TXhtUi3c/WhimofbSl9I/AAAAAAAABro/laubvabxe1gRMtPqbmHQ3m5V5MQjseepACLcBGAs/s1600/mayflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1048" data-original-width="1600" height="209" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bd5TXhtUi3c/WhimofbSl9I/AAAAAAAABro/laubvabxe1gRMtPqbmHQ3m5V5MQjseepACLcBGAs/s320/mayflower.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">‘</span><b style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Thankful Posture’</b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"> is </span><u style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">an essential component</u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"> when offering up
the required ceremonial scarifies of Peace, and that thankful posture does not
exhibit itself ONLY when things are going well. Thanksgiving is the posture of
the True Saint at every season.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">God is, however, very clear in that this Peace offering was to be offered </span><i style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><u>WITH Thanksgiving </u></i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">otherwise it
would </span><b style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><u>not </u></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">be an acceptable
offering. Whenever contemplating the Peace Treaty, which God had CUT with
Israel, the people were to be Thankful. </span><b style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><u>A
sincere heart of thanksgiving was what yoked the sacrifice with the people and
which made the sacrifice acceptable.</u></b></div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Ro
8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God,
to them who are the called according to his purpose.</i></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Rev George Barlow comments,</div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1Th
5:16 ¶ Rejoice evermore.17 Pray without ceasing.</i></div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
And for the record, (to reiterate) a Thankful heart does not show itself in
giving thanks once<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
in a while, over the dinner table or in private devotion, or
when things go well, but rather the thankful heart is FILLED WITH Thanksgiving
at all times. Thanksgiving is the exercise of love and faith for all that God
is and in all that God does. God impresses this ROOT of LOVE in the declaration
of the Great Commandment, knowing that LOVE is the well spring of all other
affections which is inaugurated and fed by the indwelling of God, the Holy Spirit.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">First.</span></b><span style="line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;"> Thanksgiving out of a pure loving heart is the
Christian’s <b>DUTY</b>. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />It is the WILL and thus it is the Commandment of the Sovereign King that you
humble yourself and bless Him by Thanking Him. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">It is the WILL and thus it is the Commandment of the Sovereign King that you
humble yourself and bless Him by Thanking Him.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Those who honestly and sincerely thank God, do so out of the Spirit’s prodding
– and it is of the <u>highest privilege</u> to be moved by the Spirit of God. Whenever
we thank God, it is because He has given us something that was not part of our being
to begin with. <u>The privilege is that we have been given something from
GOD!!!! </u></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Think of it. God has given you something that you didn’t have
before and moreover that you never deserved in the first place. A heart to love
Him, Thank Him, Praise Him, and Pray to Him.We have God as our God and Father. He is also the Universal King of the
Universe. HE gives <u>only to His Own,</u> conferring upon them a great honor
which IN TURN Thanks Him for such a mercy.</div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
The beginning of Wisdom is the Fear of the
LORD. That fear is an honoring and awe inspiring aspect of the saint. This impresses
upon the mind of the Christian exactly WHO GOD is, and what is commanded of him
for his own benefit. AND so it is in the saint’s best interest (in His wisdom )
To Give Thanks to the Lord.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Moses explained to Israel that obedience
to the Commands of God was WISDOM.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<i>De
4:5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God
commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
IN Psalm 105 the Psalmist sets
Thanksgiving as a PREREQUISITE to calling on God for His Help and Deliverance.</div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Knowing that God is well pleased with Thanking Him, that knowledge in and of
itself is an Excellency of knowledge and understanding.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Paul tells the Philippians,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Php
3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the
knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all
things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ</i></div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
The rendering of Thanksgiving is a <u>character dynamic</u> of the Regenerate. It
is a Necessary attribute for the Christian without which one remains doubtful
of his or her conversion.</div>
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
It reminds us that He is generous because we are needy. We must be ever so
conscious of our need for charity. By accepting our poverty of body, soul and
spirit, in light of the Grace that has been given to us, we, out of sincere
NECESSITY, give thanks. The Christian should naturally take delight in Thanking God, knowing that God delights
in us, when we are sincerely Grateful. As the Apostle declares, and as all of
us should likewise declare…</div>
</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Moses says this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Le 7:11 ¶ And this is the <u>law of the sacrifice of
peace offerings</u>, which he shall offer unto the LORD. 12 If he offer it for
a thanksgiving, then he shall offer with the sacrifice of thanksgiving
unleavened cakes mingled with oil, and unleavened wafers anointed with oil, and
cakes mingled with oil, of fine flour, fried.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The Law is very explicit in
what type of sacrifice this was.It was for the <u>Peace offering</u>, which
meant it was symbolic of the Peace Treaty between God and His People, according
to the Covenant cut with Blood – representing the Lord Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Paul explains,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Eph 2:14 ¶ For he is our peace, who hath made both one,
and hath broken down the </i></span></div>
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<i><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONFbIJ0cEOk/WhinCQe26II/AAAAAAAABrw/obT3UDnQ_WcwAllLx7J5Vox4ajZR7RXBACEwYBhgL/s1600/lamb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="185" data-original-width="273" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONFbIJ0cEOk/WhinCQe26II/AAAAAAAABrw/obT3UDnQ_WcwAllLx7J5Vox4ajZR7RXBACEwYBhgL/s1600/lamb.jpg" /></a></i></div>
<i>middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having
abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in
ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16
And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having
slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar
off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one
Spirit unto the Father.</i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Whatever was offered –
whether it was the cakes mingled with oil, or the anointed unleavened wafers of
fine flour – <u>it was UNACCEPTABLE</u> - <b>if</b>
was offered without Thanksgiving. <b>Thanksgiving
was the main Component of this ceremony of Peace and remains so throughout
eternity. </b>It was not so much the material cakes and unleavened wafers that
Israel was thankful for, <u>but what those things signified </u>that moved the
people to praise and Thank God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">But there was something more to this sacrificial offering.</span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> This offering was made with an oath, It was coupled
with a VOW. <u>In other words it was a requirement.<o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Ps 50:14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; <u>and pay thy vows
unto the most High</u>…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Adam Clarke explains,<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>"Now these were offerings, in their spiritual and proper
meaning, which God required of the people: and as the sacrificial system was
established for an especial end; to show the sinfulness of sin, and the purity
of Jehovah, and to show how sin could be atoned for, forgiven, and removed; this
system was <u>now to end</u> in the thing that it signified,-[i.e.] the grand
sacrifice of Christ, which was to make atonement, feed, nourish, and save the
souls of believers unto eternal life; [and] <u>to excite their praise and
thanksgiving</u>; [and to] bind them to God Almighty by the most solemn vows to
live to him <u>in the spirit of gratitude and obedience all the days of their
life</u>. And, in order that they might be able to hold fast <u>faith and a
good conscience</u>, they were to make continual prayer to God, who promised to
hear and deliver them, that they might glorify him, [according to the next
verse of Ps 50:15.]..which states: Ps 50:15 And call upon me in the day of
trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.”</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The rendering of sincere Thanksgiving
established a spirit of gratitude which WAS REQUIRED in payment of Israel’s oath.
Biblical vows, if they were to be valid, had to be voluntary. God is calling on
Israel to <u>voluntarily praise and give Him thanks</u> for His fidelity and grace.
The VOW was a promise that in everything, the people of God were to ‘Give
Thanks’ from the outpouring of gratitude for the LORD and HIS work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">This is the intent of the Apostle when he counsels the
Thessalonians.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the
will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">He makes it a point to tell
the Thessalonians that it is GOD’s WILL (Which is His commandment) that His
people render thanksgiving in everything. Paul is able to say this because he
understands that ALL THINGS work together for good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">He tells the Saints at Rome,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">“It is our duty to be ever grateful... The Christian can
meet with nothing in the way of duty that is not a cause for thankfulness,
whatever suffering may be entailed. When we think of the </span><u><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">ceaseless
stream of God’s mercies</span></u></i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>, we shall have ample reasons for [uninterrupted]
Thanksgiving.”</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">According to the Apostle
Paul the command to give thanks isn’t isolated from the Command to rejoice and
pray. He rather enjoins the three together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Continual Prayer and
Rejoicing are also commanded as being part of the will of God</span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">He puts together a kind of <u>Trinity
of commands</u> for the benefit and well being of the saints. Rejoicing, Prayer
and Thanksgiving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Observe the connection made between prayer and
thanksgiving when writing to the
Philippians and Colossians,<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Php 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by
prayer and supplication </span><u><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif";">with</span></u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> thanksgiving let
your requests be made known unto God.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Col 2:7 Rooted
and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, <u>abounding
therein with thanksgiving.<o:p></o:p></u></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><u><i><br /></i></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Col 4:2 ¶
Continue in prayer, and watch in the same <u>with thanksgiving.</u><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><u><br /></u></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wPRIm_WdYu4/WhinNFHGx1I/AAAAAAAABr8/X3Zc8nZWaQYiMRaGqzCZ75TFKopOWhBJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Ancient_Scroll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wPRIm_WdYu4/WhinNFHGx1I/AAAAAAAABr8/X3Zc8nZWaQYiMRaGqzCZ75TFKopOWhBJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Ancient_Scroll.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The Rev George Barlow again observes,<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>“The secret of a happy life is in harmony with the
divine will… It is the will of God that his people should be rejoicing,
praying, and grateful; and this will is revealed by Christ, as declared in his
gospel, as received in his church, and as observed by those in communion with
him. What a revelation is this, not of an arbitrary demand of the impossible
state of the affections toward God, but a beautiful and consolatory discovery
of the largeness of his love and of the blessed ends for which he has redeemed
us in Christ. The will of God supplies constant material for gratitude and
praise. These are the three marks of a genuine Christian. 1. To rejoice in the mercy of God. 2. To be fervent in prayer. 3.To give thanks
to God in all things.”</i> </span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Homiletic Commentary
pg 543</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">If one were to take careful
notice of the various Psalms, one would immediately see that there is a
powerful and obvious theme throughout; Praise and Thanksgiving for God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Throughout the Old Testament the Prophets have lifted up
the Name of the LORD in Thanksgiving and Praise.<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 26:6 ¶ I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I
compass thine altar, O LORD: 7 That I may publish with the voice of
thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 69:30 ¶ I will praise the name of God with a song,
and will magnify him with thanksgiving.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Ps 95:2 Let us
come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him
with psalms.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and
into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Ps 107:22 And let
them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with
rejoicing.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 116:17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of
thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 118:1 ¶ O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good:
because his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Ps 147:7 Sing
unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Isa 51:3 For the
LORD shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make
her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and
gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Jer 30:19 And out
of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I
will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and
they shall not be small.</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">What all these Old Testament
prophets were praising and thanking God for, was not only</span></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
what He had done in their
history, but MOREOVER, IN ANTICIPATION of what He <u>was going to do</u>
through the LORD Jesus, in all of history. And so when Paul speaks of the
giving of thanks, he often focuses upon the aspect of the spiritual and temporal
victory effectuated by the resurrected Christ.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>1Co 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the
victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>2Co 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us
to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in
every place.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>2Co 9:15 Thanks
be unto God for his unspeakable gift.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Col 1:12 ¶ Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath
made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Re 4:9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and
thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> Re 11:17 Saying,
We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come;
because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Consider for a moment the ROOT of Thanksgiving <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The root of a Thankful
heart is LOVE ; a Love Toward God. When the heart is filled with LOVE and
Devotion to God, it is reflected in Thanksgiving. This type of Love focuses on
God and His Redemption though the Crucified and Risen Lord Christ. <b>Love toward God is expressed in
Thanksgiving. There is no other way about it. </b>If you do not have a thankful
heart you may not be a Christian. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>De 6:4 ¶ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: 5
And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy
soul, and with all thy might.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Jesus adds an additional
but extremely important nuance to the Commandment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Mt 22:37 Jesus
said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with
all thy soul, <u>and with all thy mind</u>.</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The sincere contemplation
of the mercy of God with the mind should, result in a brokenness to the point
of praise and thanksgiving. This is to be expanded further to include a love
toward our neighbor which Jesus declares as the second great commandment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Mt 22:39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love
thy neighbour as thyself.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">This commandment teaches us
that the hypocrite’s thanksgiving, IF HE SHOWS ANY SIGN OF BEING THANKFUL, only
goes as far as himself and not to his neighbor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Observe the parable of the wicked Hypocrite.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Lu 18:10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the
one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and <u>prayed
thus with himself</u>, <u>God, I thank
thee</u>, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers,
or even as this publican.</i><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">You see this man VERBALLY
gave thanks, but his heart was far from the love of God and love toward his
neighbor, rendering his thanksgiving UNACCEPTABLE even damnable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The Great Puritan Thomas Vincent explains that it is
LOVE toward God that excites all other reactions, and in this case Thanksgiving.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">He lists 8 considerations
for the Christian to contemplate which can be used to encourage and excite the
heart and mind to Love and Thanksgiving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Second:</span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> Thanksgiving is a <b>PRIVILEDGE.</b>
</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Third: </span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It is a great <b>HONOR</b>
to be able to Thank God.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Fourth: </span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There is also <b>WISDOM</b>
in rendering Thanksgiving to God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i> 6 Keep therefore
and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the
nations…</i></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i>Ps 105:1 ¶ O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his
name: make known his deeds among the people.</i></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--></span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Fifth:</span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> There is also an <b>EXCLLENCY</b>
in Thanking God.</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Six:</span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> There is also the <b>NECESSITY</b>
of Giving Thanks. </span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">7.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Seventh:</span></b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> There is also a <b>USEFULLNESS</b>
in the giving of Thanks.</span><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">8.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Finally</span><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">,</span></b><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Thanksgiving is <b>A
DELIGHTFUL</b> practice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;"><i>2Co 9:15 Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.</i><b> </b></span><b><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">AMEN<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-33678259768177221812017-06-02T14:34:00.002-07:002017-06-02T14:34:58.221-07:00The Faceless Face Book: Blessing or Curse?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TZhkzTtM_tA/WTHTlRyzs4I/AAAAAAAABgc/m1h1CGJ4Ekkz475H2VLGftYZgN93Py9VwCLcB/s1600/family%2Bgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="940" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TZhkzTtM_tA/WTHTlRyzs4I/AAAAAAAABgc/m1h1CGJ4Ekkz475H2VLGftYZgN93Py9VwCLcB/s320/family%2Bgroup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The original intent of Face Book (FB) was primarily meant to
bring family and friends together who were separated geographically. Almost
immediately FB became a vehicle for everyone who simply wanted to share
information or certain life events within their realm of relationships. That
sharing expanded to the public arena whether the viewers were friends or not.
By the use of textual comments, photos, videos and a variety of “fun”
communications FB became an international phenomena. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">FB has now metamorphasized into many things,
some of which boarder on </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2XS1Bc5m_O0/WTHVXlklHrI/AAAAAAAABgk/cJTl-rsNlc4tfCG8BJCCL-rzo6sZGcylgCLcB/s1600/mona%2Bselfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="610" height="216" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2XS1Bc5m_O0/WTHVXlklHrI/AAAAAAAABgk/cJTl-rsNlc4tfCG8BJCCL-rzo6sZGcylgCLcB/s320/mona%2Bselfie.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">voyeurism and self idolatry. The FB culture has succeeded
in manufacturing a cultic following some of which have become so dissatisfied
with their life that they have decided to live through the seemingly exciting
life and experiences of others. From the traveling exploits to the mundane “Here
is what I am having for dinner tonight” (as if anyone really cares), or here is
a new picture of “Me; see how beautiful, sexy, strong or good looking I am” FB
has become a daily addiction. For those indoctrinated into the FB community, not
a day goes by without the FB fix. The Christian community is very much a part
of this addiction. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The FB Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMMd-sRNqTU/WTHVr1NCm9I/AAAAAAAABgo/HbuHPYoNqF06imEHny5o1hNVO_xmWwU1ACLcB/s1600/friends-hugging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="849" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMMd-sRNqTU/WTHVr1NCm9I/AAAAAAAABgo/HbuHPYoNqF06imEHny5o1hNVO_xmWwU1ACLcB/s320/friends-hugging.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To be fair, FB does have its benefits. Generally, it assists
families and friends to keep in touch who they would not be able to as easily
without the FB venue. Pictures of children and grandchildren are an especially
wonderful blessing of FB. Old friends can catch up and current friendships can
be cultivated. Fb is also a benefit for businesses in their effort to advance
their agenda and market their product. Private discussion groups and messaging
are also part of the advantage of FB.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The FB Curse<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Having said that, it is the sinful heart of man, and his
addiction to the Athenian mindset, which makes all that is new and exciting the
focus. (Acts 17:21) The depraved heart of man has polluted the FB venue
changinf its blessing into a curse. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--NK9E6oD7a4/WTHXrvtBgXI/AAAAAAAABg8/p04or53wAnEDDkfnbv9FNpPn4AcHgS_cwCLcB/s1600/beingAssertive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="642" height="202" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--NK9E6oD7a4/WTHXrvtBgXI/AAAAAAAABg8/p04or53wAnEDDkfnbv9FNpPn4AcHgS_cwCLcB/s320/beingAssertive.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Because everything that sinful man involves himself in has a
tendency to devolve into something awful. FB is not immune to this deprivation.
Nor is the Christian community immune to the negative tendency of FB’s impact.
This is mostly evident within the various Christian groups. One of the problems
with FB is the anonymity of its participants. Comments are injected into the
comment box with every opinion imaginable many of which are ‘off the cuff’. To
be involved in a “discussion” seems to be the goal even if no discussion or
comment is warranted. <br />
<br />
Within the Christian debate forums sin is rampant. Rather than using the FB
group to build up the saints these forums have devolved into battle grounds of
slander, hatred, pride, vulgarity and even the threat of violence against
disagreeing parties.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Bitter Root of
Group Think</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Everyone acts in a way consistent with their belief. This is
true for everyone. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn9pdvDEfiM/WTHTlOfxzWI/AAAAAAAABgU/J__0-uuE3_QKvIHA9cqlQYUg5Pqq-crcgCEw/s1600/axe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="853" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn9pdvDEfiM/WTHTlOfxzWI/AAAAAAAABgU/J__0-uuE3_QKvIHA9cqlQYUg5Pqq-crcgCEw/s320/axe.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A vulgar man will act in accordance with his character which coincides with his belief structure. When a professing Christian acts according to traits which typically represent unbelievers, questions must be asked as to the validity of their profession.<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It only takes one individual to spark an aggressive thread
of debate. Once that begins, especially if it is instigated by someone with
perceived popularity, knowledge of the subject or social influence, group think
takes effect and the battle begins. In studies by Myers, Bishop, and Stoner
dealing with dominant attitudes in group discussions and a comparison of
individual and group discussions involving risk, they found that identifying
with aggressive internet participants make those who normally are not
aggressive become aggressive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Richard Wiseman explains in his book 59 Seconds, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Have aggressive teenagers hang out together and the gang
will be far more likely to act violently. Allow those with strong religious or
political ideologies to spend time in one another’s company and they will
develop more extreme and often violent viewpoints. The effect even emerges on
the Internet, with individuals who participate in discussion lists and chat
rooms voicing more extreme opinions and attitudes than they normally would….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZiAMnVFATk/WTHTkye1QBI/AAAAAAAABgI/eagwJ90lCmk5Jj6bo1eKXywo4_zZonFJwCEw/s1600/angry%2Bface%2Byellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="512" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZiAMnVFATk/WTHTkye1QBI/AAAAAAAABgI/eagwJ90lCmk5Jj6bo1eKXywo4_zZonFJwCEw/s200/angry%2Bface%2Byellow.jpg" width="165" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />Other studies have shown that compared to individuals,
groups tend to be more dogmatic, better able to see their actions are highly
moral, and more apt to form stereotypical views of outsiders. In addition, when
strong willed people lead group discussions they can pressure others into
conforming, can encourage self censorship, and can create an illusion of
unanimity.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Chiefest of the
Commandments<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although FB is called Face Book, it is not a face to face</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wWV1mQn2zms/WTHTk6LqAQI/AAAAAAAABgM/xA39U1XZ4PY34V1wXdEX7EzBD_tR5mKAQCEw/s1600/angry%2Bgirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wWV1mQn2zms/WTHTk6LqAQI/AAAAAAAABgM/xA39U1XZ4PY34V1wXdEX7EzBD_tR5mKAQCEw/s320/angry%2Bgirl.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">venue at all. In fact, it is the exact opposite. FB has provided almost total
anonymity for those involved in group discussion. It is here where the problem
exists. The Lord tells us that we are to go face to face when disagreeing with
a brother. And then we are to deal with that brother in the spirit of love,
kindness and meekness.<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Eph 4:2,15,16,32, Col 2:2, 1 Thesss 3:12,Gal 6:1)</span> FB has
stripped the Christian community of that Biblical factor that is so essential
to loving our brethren. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Hypocrisy of the
Hypocrite<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those theological FB discussion groups which have become battle
grounds within the community of the saints need to take special care that they
do not accomplish more in destroying Christendom than building it up. The
Apostle declares that knowledge, when it is not disseminated with the spirit of
love and concern puffs up, whereas only love edifies. (1 Cor 8:1) What good is
arguing about the proper application of the Law and the Gospel if we cannot
even show forth the fruit of the Spirit by our own conduct? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro0orJJCsNQ/WTHTlAyozOI/AAAAAAAABgY/dZXAsEAY53sRAVbIHJ9swpl9TiRLsj8FwCEw/s1600/bible%2Bw%2Bglasses.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="940" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro0orJJCsNQ/WTHTlAyozOI/AAAAAAAABgY/dZXAsEAY53sRAVbIHJ9swpl9TiRLsj8FwCEw/s320/bible%2Bw%2Bglasses.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If the Christian community is to ever come together against
the common enemy of secularism and anti Christian humanism, it must obey the
Word of God at its most basic commandment; Christian Love. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /> <span style="font-size: x-small;">1Th 3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you</span></span></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-14411247056258014262017-05-11T11:42:00.000-07:002017-05-11T11:43:32.587-07:00Tenacious Continuity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XU0lCqbnpxo/WRSus9xRpNI/AAAAAAAABfU/0FWeneAFQz4EYbH9z4v5Iha-8WhsoijlQCLcB/s1600/Ant-architects.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XU0lCqbnpxo/WRSus9xRpNI/AAAAAAAABfU/0FWeneAFQz4EYbH9z4v5Iha-8WhsoijlQCLcB/s320/Ant-architects.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once a purpose is finalized focus is needed. But focus is
not enough if it is sporadic. No project worth undertaking can be completed
unless it is tackled tenaciously and continuously. Only then can a project be
competed. In a fast-paced world of immediates it is no wonder that it usually takes
an individual an insurmountable time to finish even the smallest of projects. The
“Fast Food Nation” mentality combined with the dumbing down of the Human spirit
has produced a nation of sloths. While this may be a natural result of
unregenerate man, it should not be the testimony of the Redeemed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Good Intentions</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L0SMO8hVppo/WRSvOWM8uVI/AAAAAAAABfY/E0a-d9duCCEBv_CrFLGzF_h4ZtWmMnwNACEw/s1600/parable-sower-parenting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L0SMO8hVppo/WRSvOWM8uVI/AAAAAAAABfY/E0a-d9duCCEBv_CrFLGzF_h4ZtWmMnwNACEw/s320/parable-sower-parenting.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Every professing child of God begins with good intentions.
However, good intentions never bring a
project to fruition. Good intentions usually begin strong, and may remain for a
season, but they quickly grow old and are finally left off for something new.
The process then repeats. At last nothing of any value or lasting effect is
established. As with the parable of the Sower, if the grounding of the intent
is not rooted in God and His Kingdom’s honor then once the sun comes up, or the
fowls of the air bring distraction, the original intention is left for dead.
Good intentions are only good if they are accomplished with tenacity and
resolve. This requires continuity. It requires a covenant obligation oath
before God to get something done. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwo6TNaVi4U/WRSupelRPUI/AAAAAAAABfM/pwmB43AO9wg9IBSfjntO5FCz2UFbpQiSACEw/s1600/ant%2Bworld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwo6TNaVi4U/WRSupelRPUI/AAAAAAAABfM/pwmB43AO9wg9IBSfjntO5FCz2UFbpQiSACEw/s1600/ant%2Bworld.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Do the Hard Thing<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sticking to a project or a ministry for God’s Kingdom
advancement is not an easy task. It takes commitment. It takes focus. It takes
much prayer. It takes the intervention of God the Holy Spirit. Committing to a
task, especially when that task will take years, or even a life time to
accomplish is no small feat. It is not easy. If it were easy everyone would be
productive in building a legacy for the Glory of Christ. Commitment requires
conviction. Persuasion is not enough. A man that is persuaded one way can be
persuaded another way if the argument is cunning enough. The persuaded man
easily vacillates and may even become unstable.
But a man of conviction is immovable. Christians that are given a Divine
conviction know what they to do. They are convinced by Scripture that it is Christ’s
call that brings them to contemplate this or that service. As a result, the
convicted Christian remains steadfast because the conviction is of God. Without
conviction, the hard things will derail the entire purpose of every good
intention.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Plan</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0nc6Uko-HI/WRSupZJ6SVI/AAAAAAAABfI/0CSLTpT5Ics3ZlsKqu9OcMAmJn21mp45QCEw/s1600/ant%2Bteam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0nc6Uko-HI/WRSupZJ6SVI/AAAAAAAABfI/0CSLTpT5Ics3ZlsKqu9OcMAmJn21mp45QCEw/s320/ant%2Bteam.jpg" width="303" /></a></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Everyone should have a plan. When God created the Universe
and all that is therein is, He had a plan. His plan is precise to the minutest
detail. Everything is mapped out. Nothing is left out. Before executing His
Divine plan, He made sure that once it began it would come to fruition and
culmination. He also wrote it down. In the counsel of the Eternal God-head God constructed
the plan. He made a Divine decree by an oath before He executed it so that it
would be perfect and competed within a certain time frame of history. The oath also contracted God to compete the plan. He divinely
obligated Himself to complete it. Moreover, it is a long-term plan executed
with patience over time and throughout many generations.</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvRENmdohSY/WRSvjHMzbdI/AAAAAAAABfc/92T8yi_NNTsknYmEuj9evRthc0aYnVrIACLcB/s1600/god-rays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvRENmdohSY/WRSvjHMzbdI/AAAAAAAABfc/92T8yi_NNTsknYmEuj9evRthc0aYnVrIACLcB/s320/god-rays.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we Christians are to think God’s thoughts after Him we must being with a
plan. We should use a daily log-book and write down what we seek to accomplish
for the day, the week, the month, the year and the next 5 years. We also need
to keep tract of our progress and accomplishments. Only what is measured is
managed. In this way we can have a running account of whether or not we are
closing in on the culmination of or desired task or ministry. I have always
encouraged folks, especially young Christians to have a Christ-Centered 1-year,
5-year, 10-year and 25-year plan. But if they cannot even plan for the week or
the month ahead then a 1 to 25-year plan is impossible. Without setting goals,
goals cannot be realized. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And yet, this model is still incomplete. A Kingdom centered
25-year plan still</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Id3QW6ZZ-M/WRSv09YWhDI/AAAAAAAABfg/n-0K-pf3Dqw2BXuejvoYencKqDePMYsSgCLcB/s1600/co-ant-with-cookie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Id3QW6ZZ-M/WRSv09YWhDI/AAAAAAAABfg/n-0K-pf3Dqw2BXuejvoYencKqDePMYsSgCLcB/s320/co-ant-with-cookie.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> omits the generational aspect of planning. We must look
beyond our mortality into the next several generations. Christians must build
for a generational Inheritance. Christians are to look into the future and plan
for the years after they are long gone from the face of the earth. Then God
will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant…enter thou into the joy of thy
lord.” Matthew 25:23</span><o:p></o:p>Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-63180904123720118132017-04-17T15:59:00.000-07:002017-04-17T15:59:27.088-07:00Singleness of Purpose <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb_rk7oSiZc/WPVFMI4flrI/AAAAAAAABd0/inl02Kv_8H4jl8wnIXIE0E06LKPlugcoACLcB/s1600/Find-Purpose1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb_rk7oSiZc/WPVFMI4flrI/AAAAAAAABd0/inl02Kv_8H4jl8wnIXIE0E06LKPlugcoACLcB/s400/Find-Purpose1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every true Child of God desires to change the world, by the
advancing of Christ’s Kingdom for His Glory. Only the sincere regenerate sets
forth his or her life in consistent self-sacrificial service to the living and
reigning Christ. They alone understand the great commission of Christ’s global
conquest to establish His reign in the midst of Time and History. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While the desire to change the world for Christ is
admirable, there are certain problems the ambitious saint faces.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Problem 1:</b> The overly ambitious saint wants
to see change NOW, which means</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PKYUdCvvVqs/WPVFuyfUIBI/AAAAAAAABd8/FAXjw1u-O5kWfEZRjWZiY6w3gN-W34r4QCLcB/s1600/Frighteningly%2BAmbitious.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PKYUdCvvVqs/WPVFuyfUIBI/AAAAAAAABd8/FAXjw1u-O5kWfEZRjWZiY6w3gN-W34r4QCLcB/s400/Frighteningly%2BAmbitious.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> that he is very impatient and often doesn’t
understand that the Kingdom of God is only advanced to its fullest extent
throughout many generations. This is known as the doctrine of gradualism. Kingdom
change does not happen in a catastrophic fashion. It does not happen immediately
but over time through patience and tribulation. Patience, mingled with faith is
the key to resolve. Impatience, on the other hand, tends to cause the saint
unnecessary discouragement and frustration. It also fragments the saint’s
focus. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Problem 2:</b> As a result of the saint’s
fragmented strategy, due to over ambition, he “bites off more than he can
chew.” He tries to attack </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mG2vxXlBHAM/WPVGTICeMfI/AAAAAAAABeE/QIX6qWvegHURfXxUCD18KBMU7gYAgANGgCLcB/s1600/chew%2Bmore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mG2vxXlBHAM/WPVGTICeMfI/AAAAAAAABeE/QIX6qWvegHURfXxUCD18KBMU7gYAgANGgCLcB/s320/chew%2Bmore.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">everything that is wrong with society. Every evil and
injustice is in his cross hairs. But in order to feel as if he is successful in
this comprehensive desire to change every institution by his own individual
efforts, he resorts to a verbally assaulting what is wrong with the world without
giving a clear Biblical alternative to the issue at hand. This verbal battle
usually is staged within the realm of social media, the blog-o-sphere, op-ed
newspaper letters to the editor, book writing or open live debate. While these,
in and of themselves, are beneficial for educating the masses, they do little
in actually changing anything concretely. Education must lead to action not
merely contemplation. The contemplation, or in this case debate and argument,
does little unless action is the result. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Problem 3:</b> Philosophical contemplation becomes
the default answer to every </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZxXMdNmPuU/WPVHCLF_w9I/AAAAAAAABeM/aJ5h3CBpQ6kYQRVw0Kn1gJBjbRQZi9tuACLcB/s1600/megaphone%2Banger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZxXMdNmPuU/WPVHCLF_w9I/AAAAAAAABeM/aJ5h3CBpQ6kYQRVw0Kn1gJBjbRQZi9tuACLcB/s320/megaphone%2Banger.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">problem because it is easy to cry out against injustice
as long as it is not backed by action. Debate is actually a placebo. It really
doesn’t solve anything, and so, in the long run it is often unfruitful. It is
easy to debate against an evil. It is quite another thing to build a viable
solution and then execute it. Ideas must be crystallized and applied to the
world in order for them to make a difference. Ideas must have real consequences
otherwise what good are they? If solutions were realized via debate Nehemiah would
have been in constant debate with the gainsayers of His day. His answer was “Rise
up and build”.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And so, the ambitious saint is torn by a thousand different
possibilities to change the world. This burrs his focus on the ONE thing God
has for him to consider and actually accomplish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>The ONE Thing</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAC09aG6qqA/WPVHLFfzRbI/AAAAAAAABeQ/uQY9MGc14Tso6pNko4i3Be6Z3tqMtptPgCLcB/s1600/one.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAC09aG6qqA/WPVHLFfzRbI/AAAAAAAABeQ/uQY9MGc14Tso6pNko4i3Be6Z3tqMtptPgCLcB/s320/one.gif" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every Christian must take an assessment of his or her
passion as it concerns the Kingdom of God and then focus upon it. That is the
ONE thing. We cannot do everything otherwise the example of the Body of Christ
would not be so prominent in Scripture. While the Body is One, it is comprised
of many different parts accomplishing different things. Yet, its goal and
purpose is One; the glory of God via the Advancement of His Kingdom. Even
though none of us can do everything, we can all do ONE thing. <br />That One thing is
our purpose. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AhVSFAx2LAU/WPVHZiPDK9I/AAAAAAAABeU/i7lB4m1ikJgtkmW6GIcdqSLIwhpkRYtaQCLcB/s1600/ONE_cube-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AhVSFAx2LAU/WPVHZiPDK9I/AAAAAAAABeU/i7lB4m1ikJgtkmW6GIcdqSLIwhpkRYtaQCLcB/s320/ONE_cube-image.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Build On The ONE</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whatever direction God calls you to, focus and build upon
it. Be sure it is for God’s Kingdom purpose and not your own. I have witnessed
the disestablishment of a Godly purpose simply because its ulterior motive was
for the advancement of the individual, or the family, and not for the greater Glory
of God. <br />
<br />
Begin small and build upon it. <br />
Pray for direction. <br />
Get Godly counsel. <br />
Read the Scriptures.<br />
Be patient. <br />
Look to the long term even to many generations ahead. <br />
Plan for your great grandchildren. <br />
Set the stage for them.</span></div>
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Lay the foundation so that they might compete the building in their lifetime. <br />
Remember, if you are focused upon God’s Kingdom you will look beyond yourself
not caring whether or not you benefit from your efforts. As long as God’s
Kingdom grows by your efforts that should suffice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now go and build a legacy for the Glory of Christ’s Kingdom.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-58L52WpYJeI/WPVH9a7d8GI/AAAAAAAABec/ooZqu9fWgS0eSbE25GFoeS7sL2s-PRl8wCEw/s1600/Power-Of-Purpose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-58L52WpYJeI/WPVH9a7d8GI/AAAAAAAABec/ooZqu9fWgS0eSbE25GFoeS7sL2s-PRl8wCEw/s400/Power-Of-Purpose.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-60604412019584713492017-03-29T10:56:00.000-07:002017-03-29T10:56:33.559-07:00THE IMPORTANCE OF "WHY"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MuxHXfLzvYw/WNvxlLH4HzI/AAAAAAAABdA/udmGp67d1TsrmmmCiP47yog9923k_Z_LgCEw/s1600/question%2Bgold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MuxHXfLzvYw/WNvxlLH4HzI/AAAAAAAABdA/udmGp67d1TsrmmmCiP47yog9923k_Z_LgCEw/s320/question%2Bgold.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">WHY do professing Christians do what they do? This question
holds the key to whether or not those who profess Christianity are actually
being faithful. Too often we focus upon the HOW rather than the WHY. But it is
the WHY that is critical to the WHAT and the HOW. Without the WHY, the What and
the HOW matters little.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Successful leaders are distinct from those that fail because
they begin with WHY rather than with WHAT or HOW. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Gospel itself is based
upon the WHY. Of course, the WHAT and HOW naturally follow, but WHAT and HOW
did not launch the Gospel. It was the WHY.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>GOD Begins with "WHY"</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PKOl2UNuSWw/WNvyN6HWVNI/AAAAAAAABdQ/ER9SaA-2VX4KLZaLx8wxuOA-pv9PqRFDgCLcB/s1600/god-rays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PKOl2UNuSWw/WNvyN6HWVNI/AAAAAAAABdQ/ER9SaA-2VX4KLZaLx8wxuOA-pv9PqRFDgCLcB/s400/god-rays.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Why did God send the Savior? It was to save an elect people for Himself, for the glorification of His
Holy Name through the righteous reconstruction of the world as a result of
Adam’s fall. He accomplishes that with the WHAT, i.e. the Second Person of the
Trinity, the LORD Christ. The life, crucifixion, death, atonement,
resurrection, ascension and the sending of the Spirit at Pentecost is the HOW.
God accomplishes the totality of His Covenant plan with the WHAT and the HOW,
but it begins with the WHY. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Fidelity, Productivity and the "WHY"</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nasONwmG1oo/WNvzqLq9-nI/AAAAAAAABdY/0X0WPezLhmAcJvgNGusVULJ0ZbwbXGvlwCLcB/s1600/nehemiah%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nasONwmG1oo/WNvzqLq9-nI/AAAAAAAABdY/0X0WPezLhmAcJvgNGusVULJ0ZbwbXGvlwCLcB/s400/nehemiah%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once we begin with WHY we do what we do, the WHAT and the
HOW follows. WHY is the motivation which leads to faithful productivity and Gospel
success. The WHY is our calling under God. It is what we believe. It is our
cause and purpose in life. We do what we do because we love the Lord in
response to His love toward us. This WHY should be behind everything we do. If
we do anything that does not have Christ and His Gospel as the motivating WHY it
is no longer for the Glory of God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xEU2jW-92QU/WNvxtLYEM_I/AAAAAAAABdU/5s0n17vmsqY5S3L36LpEOrfbB2XAcjLQQCEw/s1600/i-have-a-question.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xEU2jW-92QU/WNvxtLYEM_I/AAAAAAAABdU/5s0n17vmsqY5S3L36LpEOrfbB2XAcjLQQCEw/s320/i-have-a-question.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Communicate with "WHY"</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In Simon Sinek’s book, “Start with Why”<span style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span> he explains the
importance of communicating with the WHY before discussing the WHAT or the HOW.
Transposing his ideas and applying them to the Christian faith was very helpful
to me personally. His premise is that before explaining to people WHAT we are
going to do, or HOW we are going to do it, in our case for the reconstruction
of the culture, we must explain to others WHY we want to change the culture.
The WHY clarifies our purpose. It telegraphs our passion. This serves as a very
impressionable tactic for a starting point. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By sharing the WHY, our message
becomes inspirational rather than manipulative. People need to know WHY we are
doing this thing or that thing before they become interested in WHAT we are
doing or HOW we are going to accomplish it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wyuk_9BsW8/WNv0Ija01GI/AAAAAAAABdc/RE0ZVo_JPksCLg-iDFY-jyIIaxUKGLrDgCLcB/s1600/temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wyuk_9BsW8/WNv0Ija01GI/AAAAAAAABdc/RE0ZVo_JPksCLg-iDFY-jyIIaxUKGLrDgCLcB/s320/temple.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Case in point: Postmillennialism</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If we begin telling people HOW, or by WHAT methods, we are
going to promote the Crown Rights of King Jesus and His total conquest of
culture within the realm of time and history we have already lost our hearers
if they do not understand WHY we are promoting it. This principle can be applied
to just about everything we seek to accomplish. Explaining WHY you do something
Kingdom-ward can be used as a challenge for the empowerment of others to change
the status quo of secularism. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once they know WHY you are so passionate about
the thing you are doing the </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h5eoEZ5U3Rs/WNvxumUgNgI/AAAAAAAABdU/QtLCHl7cn28vSoUrGt7tLwAb8uvETzrpACEw/s1600/question-mark-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h5eoEZ5U3Rs/WNvxumUgNgI/AAAAAAAABdU/QtLCHl7cn28vSoUrGt7tLwAb8uvETzrpACEw/s320/question-mark-sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">WHAT and the HOW naturally follows. Every Gospel reconstruction
message must start with WHY; a purpose, cause or belief that has nothing to do
with the WHAT or the HOW. People don’t care as much as to the WHAT or HOW you
do this or that thing, but WHY you do it. Every worthy cause must be championed
first with the WHY before the WHAT and the HOW can materialize.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">1 </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">“Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take
Action” Simon Sinek, Penguin, 2009</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-72884170644749410802017-03-22T12:00:00.000-07:002017-03-22T12:00:31.454-07:00Reformation Action<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“Reformation ends not in
contemplation but in action.” </span></i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">George Gillespie (1613-1648)</span></i><i><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEKVgj1qAMs/WNLCzpQtnjI/AAAAAAAABcA/wzmtUJISfq89PQwEKgA9B7QMJwS7RDU3QCLcB/s1600/Gillespie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEKVgj1qAMs/WNLCzpQtnjI/AAAAAAAABcA/wzmtUJISfq89PQwEKgA9B7QMJwS7RDU3QCLcB/s320/Gillespie.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">No cultural solution of
value is achieved merely from ambition or a sense of duty. Solutions arise as a
result of their need coupled with the driving passion to effectuate it. A
problem has to be enough of a problem before its solution is seriously addressed.
Then, and only then, can the solution be properly developed. This however, is
not the end goal. Simply because a problem begs a solution, is taken seriously,
and then developed, it must be executed. Execution is the goal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Identifying and developing
societal solutions within the framework of Biblical Law does not translate into
actually getting anything done. Without the execution of cultural reformation,
the problems remain. Position papers and debate, no matter how accurate, is
entirely ineffective until action is taken. Whenever something is identified as
a “problem", yet remains unresolved for years without the execution of a
solution one can only conclude that it was not considered as a serious problem.<br />
<br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>Becoming Serious about Cultural Change </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Only when a problem becomes compelling is it taken seriously. That results in </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">that problem getting solved. Taking
things seriously is a gift of God especially when it concerns advancing God’s
Kingdom. Once problems become compelling, solutions are developed and then put
into action within the real world.Action is the proof that a
problem has been taken seriously. Talking about problems in conjunction with
debating theological solutions cannot take the place of actually getting
something done to alleviate the problem. Talk is cheap. It is usually a time
waster especially when talking about a problem or a solution actually becomes
the goal of its solution. Solutions to cultural situations require well planned
actionable strategies and tactics.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Actionable Issues</span></b></div>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Z5GmZyVWTE/WNLDZbkk3YI/AAAAAAAABcI/thmW6qIA-zoYsbnJgMJIG-DoZ1UFZLU9ACLcB/s1600/Old%2BBible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Z5GmZyVWTE/WNLDZbkk3YI/AAAAAAAABcI/thmW6qIA-zoYsbnJgMJIG-DoZ1UFZLU9ACLcB/s320/Old%2BBible.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The only way to solve
cultural problems is to develop a Biblical strategy and then implement those
tactics that will effectuate the desired change. The key to this is focus.
Choose an issue and focus on it. Simplify the problem so that the solution
itself becomes simple. Stay with it until it until the plan is developed and
then executed. Albert Eisenstein once quipped, “Things should be made as simple
as possible, but not any simpler.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Difficult and complicated
problem require perseverance. This can be discouraging especially when dealing
with the modern status quo of anti-Biblical ideas. In order to stay motivated
and focused reduce a big problem into one that you can solve. Scale your
problem down into something manageable. Reduce the issue onto a practical first
step. Then go to the second and then the third. Control the problem. It is the
same way a man eats an entire elephant, one bite at a time. This will keep you
encouraged and motivated as you seek progress along the way.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Write it Down – Get it Done<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXPTJsRAvCs/WNLDg5lkeyI/AAAAAAAABcM/eSFKPTg9Q8AJGxoURDXCA51e9RGCdDx9gCLcB/s1600/writing-hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXPTJsRAvCs/WNLDg5lkeyI/AAAAAAAABcM/eSFKPTg9Q8AJGxoURDXCA51e9RGCdDx9gCLcB/s320/writing-hand.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Problems which are
articulated in writing focuses the mind. Problems cannot be solved without a
clear view of what they are. Write out exactly what the problem is and then
what the end goal might look like when that problem is solved.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Between the declaration of
the problem and the desired end requires strategic planning. A strategy must be
developed with actionable items prescribed along the way.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Example: Private Real Estate Property Taxation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As with all other legislation
taxation is a moral issue. While some taxation is </span></span></div>
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</div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RtW1a9A-mPk/WNLD3iQUtMI/AAAAAAAABcQ/bTamaRBcoEg90-yogA6JbjK7OKVvoK1igCLcB/s1600/old-money-blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RtW1a9A-mPk/WNLD3iQUtMI/AAAAAAAABcQ/bTamaRBcoEg90-yogA6JbjK7OKVvoK1igCLcB/s320/old-money-blue.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Biblically sanctioned, there
are those that are not. Property taxation is one of them. It is also a local
issue regulated by either the county, city, or town. Local magistrates have a direct
say in how much taxation is placed on personal real estate. As a local issue,
you have more power in addressing it and dealing with it since generally these local
officials are more accessible being a part of the community.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Problem Stated:</b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Personal real
estate property taxation is not Biblical and must be abolished.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<br />
<b>The Goal Desired:</b> The abolition of
real estate property taxes.</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BuIcWU1srOI/WNLEQmI9aGI/AAAAAAAABcU/pL_AX3myYks23znl2-7F_KZ_tLIy7o4ZwCEw/s1600/teamwork%2Bgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BuIcWU1srOI/WNLEQmI9aGI/AAAAAAAABcU/pL_AX3myYks23znl2-7F_KZ_tLIy7o4ZwCEw/s320/teamwork%2Bgroup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: 12pt;">Strategy A:</b> Get enough
people to understand that they do not own their land and that at any time it
can be confiscated as a result of defaulting on the taxation annexed to their
property.<br />
<br />
<b style="font-size: 12pt;">Tactic A: </b>Build a team of like-minded
people willing to take action.<b> <br />
</b>Have them write letters to the editor, circulate Petitions, Flyers, attend Town
Hall meetings, go door to door encouraging face to face discussions with
literature backup, Get on the radio or local cable TV, schedule newspaper
interviews, Lobby the clergy by showing them how unbiblical taxation is oppressing
their congregation, Give a public address before the local county, city or town
council members, use social media for the purpose of educating the people and
calling them to take action, encourage brainstorming by starting a Facebook
group or Blog. <span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Strategy B:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Encourage
those of like minds to run for local office.<br />
<br />
<b style="font-size: 12pt;">Tactic B:</b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span>Find people in your church
or in your community who are on board with your theology concerning real estate
taxation. <br />
<br />
Offer to support them with manpower, and organization, if not money. Run for a</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GSBihRquqac/WNLFSjDBnCI/AAAAAAAABcY/xeT_vSNwpcEfnDjJyT5lkYkh48udOjX2QCLcB/s1600/patrick_henry.bmp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GSBihRquqac/WNLFSjDBnCI/AAAAAAAABcY/xeT_vSNwpcEfnDjJyT5lkYkh48udOjX2QCLcB/s200/patrick_henry.bmp.jpg" width="152" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
local office yourself. Get on a government committee or encourage others to do
so. Publicly lobby against any candidate or local official that seeks to raise
property taxes. You can get a lot of response from both the carrot and the
stick but mostly from the stick. Carrots and sticks must however be compelling
otherwise they cannot motivate to a resolution of the problem.<br />
<br />
<b>Strategy C:</b> Develop a Biblical
solution to replace real estate property taxation. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since property taxation is
the lion’s share of local government revenue a Biblical alternative must be
suggested. <span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BkFAEWT1l14/WNLF5_ArLMI/AAAAAAAABcc/N5h0EOR6vUk2u6lkp4YN06Y0c0HDffYIgCLcB/s1600/year%2B1%2Bshekel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BkFAEWT1l14/WNLF5_ArLMI/AAAAAAAABcc/N5h0EOR6vUk2u6lkp4YN06Y0c0HDffYIgCLcB/s320/year%2B1%2Bshekel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Tactic C:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span><span style="line-height: 107%;">Calculate the head tax revenue if the county, city or town adopted the Biblical
model. This is no small feat. Nevertheless, a needful one. It is very likely
that the head tax levied on heads of households will surpass the revenue amount
raised from property taxation. This would include all those living in apartment
buildings.<br />
<br />
You may want to suggest a caveat where this real estate exemption would only be
applied to noncommercial property and limited to one family dwelling. <br />
<br />
The point is there must be a starting point to every problem. If no action is
taken, no solutions will be forthcoming. Get people to start thinking outside
of what they have been accustomed to. This will create a rippling effect for
change. Small changes can lead to big effects. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Some problems suffer more
from lack of effort than from a lack of solution” Scott Thorpe, "How to Think Like Eisenstein".</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Where to Go from Here?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aTcRKuAomio/WNLGPtlrxUI/AAAAAAAABcg/-PTIU66LB1sZ95r_ptH9asxlyGsGUdjfQCLcB/s1600/rocket-launch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aTcRKuAomio/WNLGPtlrxUI/AAAAAAAABcg/-PTIU66LB1sZ95r_ptH9asxlyGsGUdjfQCLcB/s200/rocket-launch.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Accomplish something.
Anything. Start somewhere. Do something. Anything. Fail fast then begin again.
Never give up. Ben Franklin once stated that after he had failed over and over trying
to solve a certain problem, he at least knew what didn’t work which, in his
mind, brought him closer to the solution that would work.</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Get started!</span></div>
</div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-84871612667393780202017-03-01T13:49:00.000-08:002017-03-01T13:49:24.689-08:00Reformation: Then and Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd_mmFjHEpI/WLdA48BxspI/AAAAAAAABa8/OqtnEF2FBaUpw01wJtRaZJuppW1F0DLigCLcB/s1600/protestant-reformation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd_mmFjHEpI/WLdA48BxspI/AAAAAAAABa8/OqtnEF2FBaUpw01wJtRaZJuppW1F0DLigCLcB/s320/protestant-reformation.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The stability of today’s Reformed Christianity, especially
those of the Theonomic, Christian Reconstruction adherents, is in danger. As
with most movements the destruction rarely comes from without but rather from
within. This seems to be the case today. As we celebrate the 500-year
anniversary of Martin Luther’s bold rebuke of the Roman church, it’s tyranny
and apostasy, we too seek for a Reformation in our own time and history. Yet, reformation cannot be successful
without a unified front. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The European Reformation along with its Puritanism, both in
England and then in the American colonies, had to tackle some critical issues,
many of which we seem to be revisiting today. Obviously, we’ve learned little
from history. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Giving of Gifts<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In Ephesians 4:8-13 the Apostle draws almost verbatim from
Psalm 68:18 with </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bR2pOvtOtqI/WLc-cSplmPI/AAAAAAAABac/JljOIfT-8DgXzpVDldK3agYDgBwuzmcFwCLcB/s1600/ascension.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bR2pOvtOtqI/WLc-cSplmPI/AAAAAAAABac/JljOIfT-8DgXzpVDldK3agYDgBwuzmcFwCLcB/s320/ascension.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">one exception. In Psalm 68 the Psalmist refers to the
victorious Messiah that will <i><u>receive</u></i><u>
<i>gifts for men</i></u>. In other words,
one of the benefits the Lord Christ gains by His victory over sin, death and
the grave, are these gifts. Paul, siting Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4, explains that
after Christ atoned by descending into the lower parts of the earth He then ascended
leading captivity captive, i.e. leading the elect to salvation and gospel
service. The result is the giving of gifts <i><u>to
men</u>, as opposed to <u>for men</u>. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eph 4:8 Wherefore he
saith, ‘When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts
unto men.’<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paul goes on to explain what exactly those gifts are and
what their purpose is.<br />
<br />
<i>Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and
some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For
the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of
the body of Christ:<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Faithful pastors are God’s gift to the Church eternal and
the church institutional. To deny this is to deny the clear teaching of
Scripture. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Revolution and Order<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1Qk_RbMosg/WLc91gXRyTI/AAAAAAAABaY/t9dbuCmKhZ0uY38ejNWfn0YcDaxtJsFCwCEw/s1600/95%2Bthesis.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1Qk_RbMosg/WLc91gXRyTI/AAAAAAAABaY/t9dbuCmKhZ0uY38ejNWfn0YcDaxtJsFCwCEw/s320/95%2Bthesis.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As with any revolution, the Reformation exploded without
order or organization. Instead of Christian Liberty being understood as the Freedom
to Follow God’s Law, Liberty in Christ was perversely translated by some as to
mean every man could do whatever he saw fit. Many were promiscuously
proclaiming themselves as a prophet, pastor and priest without a valid calling.
This sent the Reformation into a tailspin. Seeing the chaos, both in the
streets and within the walls of the Reformed churches, Luther realized the need
for greater order.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">David Hall explains Luther’s response to the chaos, <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>“By 1530 he [Luther]
was describing the ministry in more formal terms as an </i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>institution established
on the express commands of Christ. Originating with Christ, the office drew
directly on Him for authority. Ministers belonged to a separate order, and only
ministers in office could admit new members to it. Though Luther still argued
[as did Calvin] that the power of the keys belonged to all believers, he
confined its use to church officers. IN the long run Luther made it
unmistakably clear his preference for a limited sacerdotalism; not a
sacrificing priesthood but a ministry of the word that ranked as a special
order.”</i> The Faithful Shepherd p8<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxW6NzeUh98/WLdBOD4nEpI/AAAAAAAABbA/HBQQWCmOa7kp5T4hZfpYkLy5W_B0MJxagCEw/s1600/Calvin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxW6NzeUh98/WLdBOD4nEpI/AAAAAAAABbA/HBQQWCmOa7kp5T4hZfpYkLy5W_B0MJxagCEw/s320/Calvin.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During this time the Anabaptists took an even more anarchistic
approach. They denied any distinction between the visible church and the
invisible Church and insisted upon defining the church subjectively in terms of
the faith of its members. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />The moderates on the other hand, men like Martin Bucer and
John Calvin,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">emerged as leaders by 1530. It was while living in Strasbourg
that Bucer and Calvin jointly developed a Reformed ecclesiology which was in
opposition to both the left and the right. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hall again observes<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Contrary to the
Anabaptists, Bucer and Clavin always insisted on the distinction between the
common priesthood (of all believers) and the ministerial vocation. They argued,
“If priesthood is common to all Christians, so is not the ministry.” ibid<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No Special Privilege<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Men who unilaterally seek theological or prophetic
pre-eminence without actually receiving a call to the office of minister often
undermine the office. In an effort to place themselves on par with those men
who have rightly been called by a congregation they foolishly set themselves up
as prophets in their own right. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ministerial Hierarchy<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eHIDuoEDDp0/WLc_JecE7XI/AAAAAAAABas/d2LvanPibLk4MTTepx5vJSo_vHDtcJ26QCLcB/s1600/church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eHIDuoEDDp0/WLc_JecE7XI/AAAAAAAABas/d2LvanPibLk4MTTepx5vJSo_vHDtcJ26QCLcB/s320/church.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Christ has organized His local church as a visible witness
of the Eternal Church. It is organized according to a hierarchical order which
gives spiritual oversight obligations to the ministers. This oversight is not a
controlling or tyrannical position. Rather it provides order and accountability
to both the congregation as well as to the ministers. Without such an order the
assembly fails to reflect the Biblical model. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Within the walls of the local church are both the redeemed
and reprobate. All however have a verbal, even a behavioral profession of
faith. This visible profession makes it almost impossible for ministers to
distinguish between the two. The wheat and tares always grow together. Both
groups are to be ministered to by the session of ministers regardless of this
fact. When there is open un-repented sin, the ministers are to address it
according to the dictates of the Word. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The New Reformation’s
Anarchy<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aqu_o8PD-Q/WLc-kdIIGoI/AAAAAAAABag/BzCH8WaZte09c36YFadG6o7j-oeW-GCyQCLcB/s1600/cropped-anarchy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aqu_o8PD-Q/WLc-kdIIGoI/AAAAAAAABag/BzCH8WaZte09c36YFadG6o7j-oeW-GCyQCLcB/s400/cropped-anarchy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The direction of today’s Reformation movement is
troublesome. In an effort to set things right within the apostate church, this
new mindset is actually undermining some of the basic Biblical truths
concerning the order of worship and the role of the ministers of the Word. This
misguided approach to Reformation has resulted in individuals and para-church
ministries to commandeer what is not rightfully theirs according to Scripture,
creating a cultic following from those who are usually young and often
theologically immature. What is far more troubling is that in an effort to be viewed
as “Top Dog” with some new revelation or slant on Christianity, these self-proclaimed
prophets and organizations have launched vicious attacks against local Reformed
churches via social media without considering the unintended consequences of
their actions. The new mantra is “If you don’t agree with everything I believe,
or apply Scripture the way I say, or focus upon the social evil that I focus
on, then you are an apostate and a heretic.” <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Accountability to God
and to One Another<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Accountability before God and one another is a Biblical
requirement. Rogue theologians refuse to
be accountable to anyone but themselves. This situates them as “God” Who is
accountable to no one but Himself. And so, once again, we are faced with the
very same sin that Adam had to deal with when he decided that he would be as
God. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Cure<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Biopljt05s/WLdAOk10voI/AAAAAAAABa0/CevxaiahjysV7MZrHQotXFvb2BuhdmPeACLcB/s1600/Revolution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Biopljt05s/WLdAOk10voI/AAAAAAAABa0/CevxaiahjysV7MZrHQotXFvb2BuhdmPeACLcB/s320/Revolution.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If there is to be a Blessed Reformation that will last
throughout many generations Christians must first humble themselves before God
and learn to respect one another and work together for the health and
prosperity of both the eternal Church and the local institutional church. If
this cannot be accomplished God will not bless the effort. God’s blessing will
be reserved for another generation that knows and fears God, and who understands
what it is to love the brethren. Only in that way will they be seen as true
disciples. Only then will God prosper the work of their hands for a New and Glorious
Reformation. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-71358525295032527582017-02-06T10:56:00.000-08:002017-02-06T10:56:09.516-08:00Social Transmission Theology<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JJlGzAEdwg/WJjD12KrYSI/AAAAAAAABY4/PdnBMv_ADmU7nXk8ykNnVnDXixslzI73gCLcB/s1600/social-media-cloud-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JJlGzAEdwg/WJjD12KrYSI/AAAAAAAABY4/PdnBMv_ADmU7nXk8ykNnVnDXixslzI73gCLcB/s200/social-media-cloud-small.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to 1 Corinthians 1:18 the Gospel itself is the
power of God to all those that are called. The method of its disbursement is
through the economy of preaching; or to put it another way, by word of mouth
marketing. This ancient strategy, of what is now called Social Transmission,
should never be under estimated. Word of mouth transmission is what makes a
thing contagious. Whenever there is the human element attached to setting forth
an idea it telegraphs a passion. Only people can do that. Newspaper
advertisement campaigns cannot nor can radio ads. These, as good as thy might
be, cannot transmit human vision or passion.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqySaGlSAvw/WJjD-l4m5pI/AAAAAAAABY8/k8jMyNs1J6EJS6pk-VAf-yijO6ehN0JsgCLcB/s1600/head-to-head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqySaGlSAvw/WJjD-l4m5pI/AAAAAAAABY8/k8jMyNs1J6EJS6pk-VAf-yijO6ehN0JsgCLcB/s200/head-to-head.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>The Transmission of
Experience<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whenever person A tells person B of a thing, it is because
person A has had some kind of experience of importance what that thing. This
can be either a positive or a negative experience. Whatever the case, the
impression is both strong and memorable. It is, however, more than simply
strong and memorable it is usually actionable.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For instance: If I tell you that I have had a terrible
experience with a certain health product you would most probably steer clear of
using that product. On the other hand, if I testified that a certain health
product did wonders for my overall health you might be tempted to give it a try
yourself. Either way you have acted upon my word of mouth transmission of an
experience.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmoNZ9GZgB4/WJjENhj8kxI/AAAAAAAABZA/srMcuudSIM0CTLSovCzpcWoVstElcUN-wCLcB/s1600/demon-possessed-man.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmoNZ9GZgB4/WJjENhj8kxI/AAAAAAAABZA/srMcuudSIM0CTLSovCzpcWoVstElcUN-wCLcB/s1600/demon-possessed-man.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Social Transmission
and the Gospel<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Jesus healed the man possessed with a legion of devils,
He told him, “Go home to thy friends, and <i>tell
them</i> how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion
on thee.” Mark 5:19 Christ was commanding the man to give a ‘word of mouth’
testimony of what God had done. When something is important, people talk about
it. That is what makes things contagious. It is the real-life story which generates
a buzz and draws people, beginning with friends and neighbors, into the
experience. It is often the personal experience shared by others that makes
their hearers want to experience it themselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5NuLc4u1goo/WJjEWOvqBnI/AAAAAAAABZE/BmKfjZfr4vgrbBAdjDx-WdixKXoALcehACLcB/s1600/talk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5NuLc4u1goo/WJjEWOvqBnI/AAAAAAAABZE/BmKfjZfr4vgrbBAdjDx-WdixKXoALcehACLcB/s1600/talk.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Psychology of Sharing<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do people share things? Why do people share experiences?
Usually it is because they are important, memorable or exciting. Worldly people
share worldly things. That is what is important to them. To this fact we should
not be surprised. What should surprise us is when Christians are consumed with
sharing worldly things rather than the things of God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fi-GCkIZ6vQ/WJjEqoF2VrI/AAAAAAAABZM/Oti9VgQm8IITMaYgFIuAYFR5v0CMTrJ7ACLcB/s1600/Luther%2B95.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fi-GCkIZ6vQ/WJjEqoF2VrI/AAAAAAAABZM/Oti9VgQm8IITMaYgFIuAYFR5v0CMTrJ7ACLcB/s320/Luther%2B95.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Reformation and
Word of Mouth<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Reformation was a word of mouth event. All Luther had to
do was post his ideas on the door at Wittenberg for people to start talking.
Word of mouth, i.e. social transmission, did the rest. It didn’t matter that
the original writing was in Latin. Once the ideas were translated into the
common tongue they caught on like wild fire. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why was Luther’s ideas so contagious? Obviously, people were
ready for it. It resonated with the common folk. It spoke to something that was
already in the subconscious of the masses and they ate it up. They took action.
The Reformation promised life changing results. It viewed the World as God’s
World and His Law was the organizing tool for society’s redemption. Every
institution was to be subservient to the King of Nations. The idea that God’s
Law was to be applied to every area and realm of the culture was something new.
Until that time the world was divined into the sacred and the secular. The
Reformation would change that. The Reformation challenged the status quo. Now people
saw that everything belonged to God and everyone was to come under His Lordship
as Lawgiver, Judge, and King. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Social Media and the
New Reformation</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UsuEdRrV9pU/WJjFEF9gixI/AAAAAAAABZU/GdA79t47Ruw8fgmIqYTL43rX4vgBI4jvQCLcB/s1600/test.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UsuEdRrV9pU/WJjFEF9gixI/AAAAAAAABZU/GdA79t47Ruw8fgmIqYTL43rX4vgBI4jvQCLcB/s200/test.gif" width="172" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe today’s social media was providentially introduced
into the world to inaugurate a New Reformation. Its success is predicated upon
its ability to unify the saints for the advancement of the Kingdom of God. However,
while Social Media can be a path for a new Reformation it is also a test to see
who will use it profitably for God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Social media is a word of mouth tool. It is to be used to
encourage, galvanize, challenge, and equip the saints. It is a vehicle where
the saints can share Kingdom advancement strategies and tactics. It is a
globally conspicuous market place of Biblical ideas hatched and refined for the
Glory of God. Sadly, I am afraid that it is not being used to the extent or
purpose intended. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6rLNWn1pXsk/WJjFeiqK4LI/AAAAAAAABZc/fUu0Isxxtpsuz-wa7vEvEVO-B-ZYjgonQCLcB/s1600/orchestrashot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6rLNWn1pXsk/WJjFeiqK4LI/AAAAAAAABZc/fUu0Isxxtpsuz-wa7vEvEVO-B-ZYjgonQCLcB/s320/orchestrashot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Social Media Temptation<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kingdom building is not about what one person can do alone.
It is about what the entire Body of Christ can do in concert, working together
for a common God Glorifying, Christ-o Centric end. Within the ranks of
Christendom, social media however has turned into a soap box for self-proclaimed
gurus in order to advance their economic agenda. Every theological pendant is
being tested to see whether or not they are seeking to advance God’s Kingdom or
their own. Social media often devolves into a battle ground for innuendo,
slander, verbal abuse and sarcasm. Instead of equipping Reformed Christendom
and galvanizing it to work as a unified Body, social media seems to have
divided it further. This is because we
have forgotten what social media is for. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Generating Word of
Mouth</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RothZBRaSs/WJjFoMZbOBI/AAAAAAAABZg/598pH0MLxtkz18YUdL7_RYEo5Pz6RZdHgCLcB/s1600/ss-listen-ear-hand-800x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RothZBRaSs/WJjFoMZbOBI/AAAAAAAABZg/598pH0MLxtkz18YUdL7_RYEo5Pz6RZdHgCLcB/s320/ss-listen-ear-hand-800x450.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Social media is not simply Face Book. It includes Twitter,
email, blogs, chats, websites, Skype, Google Plus, Go to Meeting, conference
calling hubs, Sermon Audio, and a host of other internet venues that are
flooding cyberspace at this very moment. These are tools. Tools for the
advancement of the Kingdom. These should be effectively used for generating
conversation, for generating word of mouth experiences, challenges, strategies
and tactics. They are for the advancement of Christendom. They should be used
for that end. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-8159730813593493472017-01-25T13:13:00.000-08:002017-01-25T13:13:01.975-08:00Intensity of Purpose<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jDWR9g-x5-s/WIkSloKLvsI/AAAAAAAABX4/daxckss24VQYV7obmnIuVn-7LFfo1athQCLcB/s1600/microscope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jDWR9g-x5-s/WIkSloKLvsI/AAAAAAAABX4/daxckss24VQYV7obmnIuVn-7LFfo1athQCLcB/s200/microscope.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In order to accomplish those things which are important, an intensity
of purpose is required. Whenever we set out to do something of extreme importance we tend to focus upon
it until it is completed. Focus is one of the key ingredients needed, which can
only be realized when we view the task at hand as purposeful. When a task is viewed
in this way there is an intensity which goes along with it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br />Strategic Purpose<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kingdom advancement requires a conscientious effort. It
requires focus, resolve and tenacity. In addition to those attributes Kingdom
advancement requires concrete strategies and tactics. In order to develop these
strategies and tactics we need to think through to the end goal and decide, in
detailed fashion, how to reach it. Detail is critical. Innovation and creativity
is also a critical factor in planning. If we are sincere about cultural renovation God-ward, we will have an intensity
of purpose toward that end goal. It will become our focus and our short and
long term end.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Painful Details<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rSB-dJEWVCA/WIkS4By3NjI/AAAAAAAABX8/7w2pX4Yvc1IfydeuhsO9FtS1skr59nP7gCLcB/s1600/businessman-looking-at-town.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rSB-dJEWVCA/WIkS4By3NjI/AAAAAAAABX8/7w2pX4Yvc1IfydeuhsO9FtS1skr59nP7gCLcB/s400/businessman-looking-at-town.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kingdom advancement can only succeed when we plan in detail
working from the end goal </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">backwards. <br /><br />For example: If you want to introduce yourself
to the local sheriff, or the local county common-wealth attorney how would you
go about achieving that? Where would you begin? How would you go about
executing that goal? <br /></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First, you need to know “Why” you are meeting with him? <br />
What do you want to accomplish? <br />
What is your ultimate agenda?<br />
What is the long-term reason why you might be interested in introducing yourself
to that magistrate?<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since or default plan is usually abstract we need retrain
ourselves to think in painfully explicit detail. We might begin with an
abstract goal, but in order to successfully execute it to its final end there
must be a systematic, well thought out, detailed plan. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iEN3OHGLQRE/WIkTPHOvTCI/AAAAAAAABYA/_ZY08VLVFvA5m1gzWmUMBRX1hLd5FOuAQCLcB/s1600/chess-pieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iEN3OHGLQRE/WIkTPHOvTCI/AAAAAAAABYA/_ZY08VLVFvA5m1gzWmUMBRX1hLd5FOuAQCLcB/s320/chess-pieces.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Personal Integration<br /></span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />There are two ways of going about integrating yourself into
any community. You can either critique and criticize to the point where people
stop listening to you, or you can be crafty and become a trusted, even sought
out, leader in the community God-ward. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />Once people respect you, even if they do
not agree with you, you can have a Godly influence upon the culture so when you
vehemently disagree with something it is not rejected out of hand. <br />
<br /><b>A Case Study: The Details</b><br />
<br />
Let’s take the hypothetical case of introducing yourself to the local sheriff. First:
Why would you even bother getting to know the Sheriff? One very important
reason is that he is the executive officer of the entire county which is an
extremely weighty position. Secondly, he is one of the most important lesser
magistrates that stands between the tyranny of the State and you. Thirdly, his
job is to keep peace and order within the community which is essential to the overall
well-being of any community.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>So how do you get
into the front door without looking like a complete idiot or nut case? </b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GnFz5LjFhf0/WIkTdwCX3KI/AAAAAAAABYI/SASUCaziT5U42z_4gpo_UHIfO9eJ6_M6wCLcB/s1600/simple-handshake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GnFz5LjFhf0/WIkTdwCX3KI/AAAAAAAABYI/SASUCaziT5U42z_4gpo_UHIfO9eJ6_M6wCLcB/s320/simple-handshake.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>Remember you want to ultimately have him get to know you as
an individual of integrity, lawfulness, ethical stability, knowledge and wisdom. If
you have a business within the community, or if you are a minister, elder or
deacon in your church, the introduction is easy. You already have a conspicuous
place in the community which shows you have a stake in its safety and
prosperity.<br /></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can start by making an appointment with the sheriff introducing
yourself and your position in the community, thanking him for his service and
then asking him if there is anything that you might do to make his job easier. <br /><br />This
has to be a sincere request. You should want to be available as a gospel
ambassador should an opportunity arise. Before he gets to know you, you must
get to know him. Show some consideration for the job he has, his concern for
his deputies, and offer whatever help and encouragement you can as a citizen or
minister within the county. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the initial introduction, be sure to periodically
touch base with him and perhaps some of the deputies. Once a fluid relationship
is established watch for opportunities to minster the Word of God to him as it
concerns his position as the lesser magistrate. <br />
<br />
<b>Other Opportunities<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This approach can be applied to any area that you wish to
influence. Get to know the local bank manager, editor of the newspaper, fire chief,
political reps of the local, state and federal jurisdiction. Visit your local
commonwealth attorney and your local circuit court judges. Down the road, you
may be able to offer them some materials that might be of interest in the application
of God’s Law. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Don’t forget to be personable especially to the county clerk, treasurer and the
secretaries of these offices. Don’t forget the local clergy. Get to know them.
Eventually you will be lobbying them to get on board with certain community
issues that they may tend to shy away from.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5W8e6sfCLM/WIkUeHh5YxI/AAAAAAAABYQ/9n1LW_bYEqgffxAX-zl4Jrvj14Oj8TWcACLcB/s1600/klassieke-klok.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5W8e6sfCLM/WIkUeHh5YxI/AAAAAAAABYQ/9n1LW_bYEqgffxAX-zl4Jrvj14Oj8TWcACLcB/s320/klassieke-klok.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Long-Term Effects</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I
cannot stress the importance of maintaining a consistency of Godliness. The
manifestation of your ethical conformity to the Law of God is of utmost
importance. You must be trust-worthy and even-tempered even in the face of
severe reproach, slander, backbiting and even betrayal, all of which is guaranteed.
Not everyone will respond positively to your Christian cause. Your purpose is
to make inroads as a Christian leader in the community. Your efforts, if you
are committed to the end goal, will pay off in the future, ultimately aiding in
the advancement of righteousness, justice, equity and peace – the components of
the Kingdom of God. </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span>Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-58224114916529314482017-01-18T14:01:00.001-08:002017-01-18T14:01:46.743-08:00Christian Reconstruction: No Laughing Matter<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Christian
Reconstruction<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m90i9ImnwtM/WH_lVR-wiCI/AAAAAAAABXY/C-V8UT1_fo4hP_Bw-3ZWiOLN9mYKz2ZzwCLcB/s1600/temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m90i9ImnwtM/WH_lVR-wiCI/AAAAAAAABXY/C-V8UT1_fo4hP_Bw-3ZWiOLN9mYKz2ZzwCLcB/s320/temple.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The question concerning the reconstruction of the culture
according to the Law-Word of God is no laughing matter, neither is it something
to reject out of hand. It is a very real doctrine which is emphasized and repeated
over and over in Scripture by way of commandment and historical case study. To
deny Christian Reconstruction is to deny the Great Commandment of Matthew 28
and every other passage that corresponds to it both in the Old and New
Testaments.</span><br /><br /><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Consider the idea of
Reconstruction</span><br /><br /><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Everyone is a Reconstructionist. There is not one person on
the face of the earth that doesn’t seek to re-orient things according to one’s
own philosophical agenda. In fact, everyone seeks to conform the world in
accordance with their theological presuppositions. In other words, everyone
seeks to re-arrange things in light of what they “believe” is best either for
themselves or for others. By definition that action is based upon theological
and religious ideas. Once a person declares, “I think”, or “I believe, this way
or that way is the best approach to accomplish something” it is a religious
statement. To believe something is a theological statement. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Everyone is a Reconstructionist<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Human life is in a constant state of re-organizing,
re-prioritizing, re-scheduling and re-focusing. Mankind is constantly seeking
to “better” himself by changing what doesn’t work to what works for a more
fulfilling, productive life. To put it another way, every person on the face of
the earth is seeking to “Reconstruct” their existence so as to enjoy a more meaningful
existence. For the human race, reconstruction is not only inevitable, it is
often a daily event. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For Example: Those who are unhappy with their intellectual
knowledge usually go to college to re-orient their minds so as to be smarter. Individuals
who are not satisfied with their physical appearance might opt for the reconstruction
of their bodies though diet or exercise. Families are always in a state of
reconstruction especially when there are little ones involved. Persons who are dissatisfied
with their income seek to make more money by recalibrating their direction for
better financial results. In the sphere of law and politics reconstruction takes
center stage. Every law is an attempt to reconstruct human behavior. Every
politician campaigns on promises for the society’s reconstruction. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These are all attempts at the reconstruction of something.
In fact, reconstruction is all around us because it is wired into our nature.
The question however is not ‘reconstruction or no reconstruction’ but rather ‘by
what standard does a person, family, legislator or politician reconstruct the
world around them?’ What is the standard for reconstruction? <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Worldviews: The
Standard of Human Reconstruction<br />
</b><br />
Every attempt for reconstruction is based upon a network of belief systems
called “Worldviews”. These Worldviews dictate the direction of change. Everyone
holds to a particular world and life view. There is no neutrality here. These
worldviews determine what a person believes about God, man, heaven, hell,
money, power, good, evil, marriage, family, politics, law, science etc.
Everyone holds some sort of “Opinion” (i.e. Worldview) which is actually
religious in nature since it is not only a belief structure it is the standard which
determines how one thinks and acts. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By What standard?<br />
<br />
</b>Worldviews can be classified as Biblical, Secular, or Syncretistic. Reconstruction will manifest itself in one of
these three ways. Secular reconstructionist use pragmatism, individualism,
libertarianism, atheism, and every other “ism” to reconstruct the social order
according to what they believe is best for society. Those reconstructionist who
blend moral principles with secular reasoning in a syncretistic fashion are
also trying to reconstruct the culture. <br /><br />Many of these are in the camp of the libertarians,
natural law theorist, or constitutionalists but at the end of the day they are
all trying to reconstruct the culture by way of their World view. They may call
themselves Christians but their standard of Truth is not Biblical Christianity.
What the syncretists fail to understand is that since their standard is not
Biblical it cannot, and will not succeed in bringing about a righteous end no
matter what their good intention are. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Christian
Reconstruction. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Christian Reconstruction stands alone not only because it is
unique but because it alone can bring about a cultural order that is holy, righteous,
just, and good. The standard of
Christian Reconstruction uses the Infallible Law Word of God to direct societal
change. It stands in stark contrast to the chaotic system of man which has been
proven to be futile time and time again, even throughout the ages.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So whenever anyone criticizes, mocks or tries to discredit
the Christian Reconstruction movement remind them that everyone is part of a reconstruction
movement. They will either reconstruct the culture according to their own
fallible ideas, or they will reconstruct the culture in obedience to God’s Law.
There is no middle ground and there is no excuse. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-43667354974780630812017-01-12T13:38:00.000-08:002017-01-12T13:38:30.408-08:00The Essentials of Christian Reconstruction<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In Greg McKeown’s book, ‘Essentialism’, he asks a very
pointed question that every Christian who is interested in cultural
reconstruction must ask. Quoting from Chinese philosopher Lin Yutang he writes,
“The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non-essentials.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgVeySQFcb4/WHf2UASvoWI/AAAAAAAABWw/47c6wBItU3oZqB2BYdWnF0joi81TqG05gCLcB/s1600/stonemason2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgVeySQFcb4/WHf2UASvoWI/AAAAAAAABWw/47c6wBItU3oZqB2BYdWnF0joi81TqG05gCLcB/s320/stonemason2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In contemplation of this question the Christian should ask,
“What is essential to the establishment of the Kingdom of God and what is not?”
To be more specific the question really should be, “What is essential for <i>me </i>to focus upon and accomplish in the
establishment of the Kingdom of God?” All too often, in the pursuit of
reconstructing the culture, the Christian focuses on a myriad of general non-essentials
rather than his or her individual specific essentials for Kingdom building. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, what then are the essentials to Kingdom building beside
the obvious establishment of individual righteousness and ethical conformity to
the Law of God? How does one decide what is essential and what is not?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It must be first understood that each Christian is called to
challenge a specific</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i_je7fNbAXE/WHf2cOBx5HI/AAAAAAAABW0/3t2Sd9Rreq4eNJ91T87PtjApG_5_LdrlwCLcB/s1600/operativemasons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i_je7fNbAXE/WHf2cOBx5HI/AAAAAAAABW0/3t2Sd9Rreq4eNJ91T87PtjApG_5_LdrlwCLcB/s200/operativemasons.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> area of the cultural for its reconstruction. I have been
quoted as saying that “If your vision is anything less than changing the world
for Christ, then your vision is too small.” What that quote fails to reveal is
that the world is changed by many individuals focusing on individualized areas
of the culture specific to their skill set which when networked together bring
about world change. No one single handedly changes every area of the culture.
Successful comprehensive reconstruction takes the entire Body of Christ,
working together according to each individual calling. Deciding what area to
focus upon holds the key to determining what is essential and what is not. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cL1XLOUDBqs/WHf3HA-VVLI/AAAAAAAABXA/FMsYNQm89Rciieju9tDaTNv5ID8uWcETgCLcB/s1600/nehemiah%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cL1XLOUDBqs/WHf3HA-VVLI/AAAAAAAABXA/FMsYNQm89Rciieju9tDaTNv5ID8uWcETgCLcB/s320/nehemiah%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One way to begin is to focus on one area of the culture which
you are most passionate about. The next step is to determine whether or not you
possess the necessary wherewithal to begin confronting that area so it can
eventually conform to the Word of God. Focus upon the single most important
area that you believe you are proficient in understanding, analyzing and
reorienting God-ward. Make a concrete decision to “fix” that area and then do
not depart from that quest. To be sure these first steps are the most
important. If you cannot decide which specific areas of the culture you wish to
challenge you will remain confused, indecisive and thus ineffective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Think In Concrete
Terms<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Abstract deliberation never solved anything. In order to
actually reconstruct any</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pk-6QUKmZs0/WHf2kTq_78I/AAAAAAAABW4/-AgOJJ3nt-0ofG8dyPtKw1z4hzCAQnXiwCLcB/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pk-6QUKmZs0/WHf2kTq_78I/AAAAAAAABW4/-AgOJJ3nt-0ofG8dyPtKw1z4hzCAQnXiwCLcB/s200/th.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> area of the social order concrete, strategic and
tactical thinking must lead the way. Solution based applications must be tried
and tested in the marketplace and not simply around the debate table. <br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The time for writing more books lamenting over what is wrong
with the culture is as ineffective as any theoretical abstract plan for its
remedy. Theory is good in so far as it becomes actionable. Whenever it fails to
be applied it becomes ineffective. Once it is ineffective it simply becomes
just another ivory tower of words without any teeth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BTldirEqeu0/WHf3Af_8q0I/AAAAAAAABW8/NPD84hAJaDc_gbVrpBomm5VoXSXWLvh0gCLcB/s1600/Problem-Solving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BTldirEqeu0/WHf3Af_8q0I/AAAAAAAABW8/NPD84hAJaDc_gbVrpBomm5VoXSXWLvh0gCLcB/s320/Problem-Solving.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What we need are problem solvers. Instead of writing more books
or pontificating via the lecture circuit or the bog-o-sphere, what is needed is
a movement; a series of well-planned movements for Christian Reconstruction which
will impact various targeted areas of the culture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What do these individual cultural warriors look like? They
are problem-solving Christians who are not interested in fame or fortune by
becoming financially independent through donations. Their passion is only
satisfied with results.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What is needed is a
network of Christians that know how to get things done and are actually ready
to execute those plans in the real world. It is that group of problem solvers
that are essential to the success of Christian Reconstruction. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-5976557527937488892016-12-21T15:28:00.000-08:002016-12-21T15:48:00.714-08:00Stop Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BQJS2h5weko/WFsKK2IbSlI/AAAAAAAABUs/TYqseKmp-rkUqkuBDzRn2BBjnNlTxpXWACLcB/s1600/635873821517718970351055939_Stack-of-books-great-education.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BQJS2h5weko/WFsKK2IbSlI/AAAAAAAABUs/TYqseKmp-rkUqkuBDzRn2BBjnNlTxpXWACLcB/s200/635873821517718970351055939_Stack-of-books-great-education.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Stop Reading</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Quite a strange admonishment from someone who believes reading and study is essential to Biblical leadership and cultural reconstruction. So why make the statement?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><br />Reading vs Doing</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The reason behind reading is to teach and then train individuals to DO SOMETHING with what they have learned. Reading apart from the application intent is useless in a world where accomplishment changes things, while reading, for reading sake does little, if anything culturally at all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In an online issue of Entrepreneur Magazine, author Steve Toback </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">explains.</span><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hk4vce7QEj4/WFsKWzVRImI/AAAAAAAABUw/-ITIR5vhO3Eir1s_laiQu9VwT6ShuVi9QCLcB/s1600/beakers-and-test-tubes-blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hk4vce7QEj4/WFsKWzVRImI/AAAAAAAABUw/-ITIR5vhO3Eir1s_laiQu9VwT6ShuVi9QCLcB/s200/beakers-and-test-tubes-blue.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: verdana; white-space: pre-wrap;">"People learn from experience. We have textbooks and lectures in school, but without repeatedly solving work problems, conducting lab experiments, taking tests, writing papers (and getting graded feedback on all of it) we wouldn’t learn a blessed thing."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-size: 14.6667px; text-decoration: none;">
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The reason behind the stagnation of the Christian Reconstruction (CR) movement is not due to a lack of knowledge but rather a lack of strategic real world application of that knowledge. Instead of being inundated with a long train of blog posts and FB arguments, pontifications and threads, what CR needs is a detailed operational plan for the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Christian Reconstruction is about applying Biblical models to each element of the culture in real world scenarios. It is based upon diligent doing, not empty talking. It is about building Biblical models and </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfwICxUh0GY/WFsS2NdH6tI/AAAAAAAABV4/YOhMtfvBpeszGnYQXYqV99bGfT60nIf3gCEw/s1600/playing-with-the-building-blocks-of-the-cloud-getting-iaas-right.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfwICxUh0GY/WFsS2NdH6tI/AAAAAAAABV4/YOhMtfvBpeszGnYQXYqV99bGfT60nIf3gCEw/s320/playing-with-the-building-blocks-of-the-cloud-getting-iaas-right.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">then experimenting with them within the reality of the culture to see what works and what doesn’t. It is about monitoring the results, both the successes and failures. Where there are successes these need to be shared with the CR community. When there are failures it’s time to go back and re-work the model. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">CR is also about building coalitions across the nation, networking with them and sharing strategies and tactics. The Body of Christ does not work in a vacuum. </span></div>
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<b id="docs-internal-guid-88f140c6-23ac-4d0a-423d-c0885223fe20" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If I were to write a tactical playbook I may only publish one page at a time. Once the details of the first page was completed, then the second page would be published. The reason for this is that too many claiming Theonomic roots and the desire to see Christ’s Kingdom advance often fail to lay the foundational groundwork for its success. These Reconstructionists are not interested in laying down a Biblical foundation within their own person or families first. They would rather change the world than to change themselves. They do not understand that CR beings with the individual and then the family. Only then can it yield cultural increase. Reconstructionists first must be Christians before they are allowed to advance the Kingdom.
</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWKJELMk77Q/WFsTaGuDPoI/AAAAAAAABV0/R5e1WlqXnzAbEjIwXm3dbz4_0TUsGnH1wCLcB/s1600/family-prayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWKJELMk77Q/WFsTaGuDPoI/AAAAAAAABV0/R5e1WlqXnzAbEjIwXm3dbz4_0TUsGnH1wCLcB/s200/family-prayer.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have pastored for more than 25 years. Of those years I have been involved in CR for 22 of them. What I have witness is both distressing and dangerous to any Christian movement especially one with Theonomy and the Dominion mandate at its center.</span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before any Kingdom work can be successful one must first understand the Scriptures. Too often individuals read Rushdoony, North, Bahnsen et al without actually understanding what Biblical Christianity is and what it demands. They do not understand who they are or what the Covenant demands of them. This is a formula for disaster, especially for those that learn their theology from blogs and FB posts and not from the Scriptures and the Historic Creeds of Christendom. </span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yet, even when Biblical fundamentals are intact, there is still the tendency to look for quick results. CR is not a quick fix. It is not saving the world in one generation. It is a long and slow process that requires faith, tenacity, resolve and patience. It is the laying down of a foundation for the next several generations to build upon. It is about building a generational legacy that has Christ as the Center.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Christian Recon 101: The First Step</b></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So what is the first step after the Biblical groundwork is met? How does one engage the culture? </span><span style="color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is what I would recommend on that first page of the manual before anything else: </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>
1. Get to know those in your community.
</b></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">
a. Visit store owners. Frequent their shops. Visit governing officials. Know the lawyers, sheriff, deputies, firemen, post master, clerks, etc.
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>2. Build report with everyone in your community from the least to the greatest.
</b>
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">a. Take the Commonwealth attorney out to lunch. Give him a copy of Law and Liberty.
</span><br />b. Visit those in the county and town office. Bring the secretaries a box of cookies. Tell them you appreciate their work. Get to know your supervisors. hear their concerns. Ask if you can help in anyway.<br /></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>3. Establish yourself as a person of integrity, wisdom, and cordiality.
</b></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a. Be quick to listen, slow to speak. Don't dress like a bum. Present yourself as person of respect.
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>4. Observe. Gather intel.
</b>
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a. Go to town and county meetings. Send others to gather info so when the time comes to offer solutions you know the issues.
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>5. Become visible but not intrusive or arrogant.</b>
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a. This takes time. It make take 10 or 20 years but you are paving the way for others that will come after you.
</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Here is the Key: </b></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you genuinely care about people you will be influential in their lives for good and a staple in your community. If you only care about yourself and how you can win them for Jesus they will find you out very quickly and your witness will be destroyed.
Once you have established an honest report they will be willing to hear you even if they disagree because you have gained their respect. That is dominion, and that is the first step in CR. </span></span><br />
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<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-16224419682759071092016-03-22T15:30:00.000-07:002016-03-22T15:30:17.609-07:00A Great Opportunity for Cultural Revitalization <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">“And there came a certain
poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And he called
unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this
poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For
all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all
that she had, even all her living.” <span> </span>Mark
12:42-44<br /><br /></span></i></span> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jozvt7vltqU/VvHF5l2cWRI/AAAAAAAABOo/cEeChUaM7CsBgAmISO8tP0XNXRW5D6FbQ/s1600/The_Widows_Mite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jozvt7vltqU/VvHF5l2cWRI/AAAAAAAABOo/cEeChUaM7CsBgAmISO8tP0XNXRW5D6FbQ/s200/The_Widows_Mite.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;"></span></i></span></div>
<i><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></i>Christianity, America and the whole of Western
civilization is at a cross-roads. If we are to lay a foundation of
applied Biblical Scholarship for the express purpose of cultural
renovation for the next generation the time is NOW. If we miss this
opportunity it may very well be too late for any progress in the years
to come.<br /><br /><br />
The New Geneva Academy in conjunction with its parent
non-profit Theological Institution the ITR has been given a tremendous
opportunity by the merciful providence of God. The ITR has just secured a
substantial piece of property across from its already existing library
of more than 100,000 books, pdf and microfiche documents in downtown
Appomattox, Virginia. <br /><br />The purpose of this purchase is to build a small
conference center with additional library <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fQDhn4Ijwjc/VvHGLR_8eJI/AAAAAAAABO0/tB1OLPfmiBYgtm7ki_xIF1kSD_OZ92Syg/s1600/200px-Genevan_Consistory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fQDhn4Ijwjc/VvHGLR_8eJI/AAAAAAAABO0/tB1OLPfmiBYgtm7ki_xIF1kSD_OZ92Syg/s1600/200px-Genevan_Consistory.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8FbjnbOXoj8/VvHGETXK32I/AAAAAAAABOs/uYk0l4GH-OQoPtQI9vaurJAa2fH5x1msQ/s1600/Library%2Bof%2BAlexandria%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>space which will house the
R.J. Rushdoony Library of 48,000 books, making New Geneva and the ITR
one of the largest libraries in Virginia, if not the largest to date.<br /><br /><br />
The facility will be used as a research and resource center to train cultural leaders, ministers, evangelists,
gospel ambassadors and statesmen. It will be like the Geneva of Calvin’s
day where Knox once commented that the school at Geneva was "The
most perfect school of Christ that ever was on earth since the days of
the Apostles". We want to realize this once again as we embark on a new
reformation.<br /><br />
While we have the property we do not have the funds
to build the building. Wonderfully, however, new construction prices in
Appomattox are relatively low compared to other U.S. cities. Moreover,
Appomattox is located in the heart of Virginia, easily accessible from
several of the East Coast States and developing quickly.<br /><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmUR-R6KN5Q/VvHGJMRNprI/AAAAAAAABOw/TLNikMZ1vlcmThdAWcpVh19X3LFFxMwXQ/s1600/widows-mite1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmUR-R6KN5Q/VvHGJMRNprI/AAAAAAAABOw/TLNikMZ1vlcmThdAWcpVh19X3LFFxMwXQ/s200/widows-mite1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
In
order to realize this we need others to share both the vision and the
passion that we have for this project. We are asking you to give like
the widow gave in Mark 12. We need to raise approximately $200,000 -
$225,000 for this to become a much needed reality. <br /><br />This building
will not only house the conference center and the library, it will be
coupled with our existing building to provide a campus like atmosphere
for both our students and the entire community.<br /><br />
Will you please consider being part of this project? <br /> <br /> All donations are tax deductible and checks should be made out to the ITR.<br />PO Box 778 Appomattox VA 24522<br /><br /> You can also go onto our website to our donation page if you wish to donate via Credit Card.<br /> <br /> <a data-mce-href="http://www.newgeneva.us/PAYMENT%20OPTIONS.htm" href="http://www.newgeneva.us/PAYMENT%20OPTIONS.htm">http://www.newgeneva.us/PAYMENT%20OPTIONS.htm</a><br />
Thank you for your prayers and support in this most critical time of our history.<br /><br />
Deo Vindice!Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-60465684191409694722015-12-29T13:23:00.001-08:002015-12-29T13:23:46.740-08:00The Hamster Wheel <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XSvNDIo_8jk/VoL5pY-VuOI/AAAAAAAABL8/Ya5BkV-oeEM/s1600/hamster-wheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XSvNDIo_8jk/VoL5pY-VuOI/AAAAAAAABL8/Ya5BkV-oeEM/s200/hamster-wheel.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
One of the strategies of the Monolithic State is "Time Appropriation." If the State can commandeer the Christian's time by forcing him to devote all of his time to mere survival via making just enough money to live, the State then can thwart any move for Christian Reconstruction from being realized.<br />
<br />
If all your time is taken up with work just to survive and pay bills you cannot redeem any time for the things of the Kingdom unless your work is being used specifically for Kingdom advancement. Without a targeted plan that situation, however, is not usually the norm. Too may Christians have failed to use their careers in such a way as to advance the Kingdom and have thereby set themselves up to run the "Hamster Wheel" just to make ends meet,l or in some cases to buy more stuff.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sasyVDQID8w/VoL4KYmOX8I/AAAAAAAABLo/Ai2aHU4OHmM/s1600/slavery2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sasyVDQID8w/VoL4KYmOX8I/AAAAAAAABLo/Ai2aHU4OHmM/s200/slavery2.jpg" width="200" /></a>In order to keep Godly men and their families on the hamster wheel the
State continues to impose every type of taxation upon them. This is the theology of unlawful taxation; feed the State so that it can continue to perpetuate its religion of secular humanism on its people and its demands of its monolithic ideology through legislation and coercion, to be as God.<br />
<br />
In this way time is appropriated by the demands of the State. They not only own your time, they own you. But if that is not enough to make you furious they also own your future and if this pattern is not broken they will also own your children's future.<br />
<br />
<b>Redeeming the Time</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnb81xqkliw/VoLzAEGSAvI/AAAAAAAABLI/XKGaqb2L6KQ/s1600/dsc_0053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnb81xqkliw/VoLzAEGSAvI/AAAAAAAABLI/XKGaqb2L6KQ/s200/dsc_0053.jpg" width="200" /></a>Time is more important than money. Flexibility is more important than money. Your family<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> cf Deuteronomy 8:18 </span>This is precisely why the Scripture commands us to redeem time and not money per se, for the days are evil. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ephesians 5:16 </span>and its future is more important than money. And of course the advancement of the Kingdom of Heaven is more important everything. Money is important only if it is used Biblically. <br />
<br />
The Christian that finds him or herself on the State's hamster wheel must make a conscience decision to be liberated from its cyclical prison. The question is not how much money can we make, or how many things we can buy, but how many things have we done for the Kingdom. How productive were we in our lifetime for the Glory of God and the Gospel's advance? It's never a question of how much money do we want but rather how much money do we really need, and to what purpose do we use our finances. It is a fact that the blind quest for cash is a fools errand. Working for mere wages without a Kingdom plan is folly and vexation of spirit.<br />
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<b>Define Your Purpose</b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IbNGz-SZlXM/VoL4gZjtI8I/AAAAAAAABLw/pNf9EzGGPj4/s1600/increase-productivity.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IbNGz-SZlXM/VoL4gZjtI8I/AAAAAAAABLw/pNf9EzGGPj4/s200/increase-productivity.png" width="200" /></a></div>
Too many within the Christian community go through life without a clear definition of its meaning. Too may do not really have an active life plan based upon Scriptural mandates. For them life is passive. There is no real life's design God-ward. What is more discouraging is too many Christians fail to realize that they are commissioned to make an impact in the world for the Glory of God and not merely for the glory and financial success of themselves. The question that each of us must ask is "What is our contribution to the Kingdom's advance?" If we cannot answer this then we have not contributed to its advancement and we must then rethink our entire life's purpose and whether or not Christ is the central hub or life.<br />
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<br />Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-86616925119359018392015-11-19T12:44:00.001-08:002015-11-19T12:44:10.108-08:00The Philosophy of New Geneva, its Library and the Re-calibration of the CultureRev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymond, Founder of New Geneva Christian Leadership Academy,
and the Institute for Theonomic Reformation, discusses how God's people and God's churches are to be the salt and
light - especially on issues affecting our culture and our government.<br />
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nLkXy2lgCU&feature=youtu.be Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6741168687907825502.post-77049773989704477752015-11-06T12:42:00.002-08:002015-11-06T13:21:01.653-08:00Rev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymond on "How does the Church impact the State." Rev Dr Paul Michael Raymond is interviewed on the Morning Line on WLNI Radio, Lynchburg Virginia with George Caylor<br />
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https://soundcloud.com/teatimewithgeorge/dr-paul-raymond-on-how-does-the-church-impact-the-stateRev. Dr. Paul Michael Raymondhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05972690477753828612noreply@blogger.com0