Thursday, September 11, 2014
Friday, April 11, 2014
Losing Salvation or Never Saved
by J. C. Ryle
A
common reason why many do not hold perseverance is an incorrect view of
the nature of SAVING FAITH. They regard faith as nothing better than a
feeling or impression. As soon as they see a man somewhat impressed with
the preaching of the Gospel and manifesting some pleasure in hearing
about Christ—they set him down at once as a believer! By and by the
man’s impressions wear away, and his interest about Christ and
salvation ceases altogether. Where is the faith he seemed to have? It is
gone. How can his friends, who have pronounced him a believer, account
for it? They can only account for it by saying, that “a man may fall
away from faith,†and that “there is no such thing as
perseverance.†And in short, this becomes an established principle in
their religion.
Now this is a mischievous error, and I am afraid sadly common in many quarters. It manifestly may be traced to ignorance of the true nature of religious affections. People forget that there may be many religious emotions in the human mind—with which saving grace has nothing to do. The stony ground hearers received the word with joy—but had no root in them. The history of all revivals proves that there may often be a great quantity of seemingly religious impression, without any true work of the Spirit. Saving faith is something far deeper and mightier than a little sudden feeling. It is an act not of the feelings only—but of the whole conscience, will, understanding, and inward man. It is the result of clear knowledge. It springs from a conscience not grazed merely—but thoroughly stirred. It shows itself in a deliberate, willing, humble dependence on Christ. Such faith is the gift of God—and is never overthrown! Make faith a mere matter of feeling—and it is of course impossible to maintain perseverance for such a one. . .
Not a few are ready to pronounce any change for the better in a man’s character, to be a conversion. They forget that there may be many blossoms on a tree in spring, and yet no fruit in autumn; and that a new coat of paint does not make an old door new. Some, if they see anyone weeping under the influence of a sermon, will set it down at once as a case of conversion. Others, if a neighbor suddenly gives up drinking or swearing, and become a great professor—at once rush to the conclusion that he is converted.
The natural consequence in numerous instances is disappointment. Their supposed case of conversion often turns out nothing more than a case of outward reform, in which the heart was never changed. Their converted neighbor sometimes returns to old habits—as the pig that was washed, to her wallowing in the mire. But then unhappily the pride of the natural heart, which never likes to allow itself mistaken, induces people to form a wrong conclusion about the case. Instead of telling us that the man never was converted at all, they say that “he was converted—but afterwards lost his grace and fell away.â€
The true remedy for this is a right understanding of conversion. It is no such cheap and easy and common thing as many seem to fancy. It is a mighty work on the heart, which none but He who made the world can effect, and a work which will abide and stand the fire. But once take a low and superficial view of conversion, and you will find it impossible to maintain final perseverance.
I entreat you to observe how important it is for Christians to be sound in the faith, and to be armed with clear Scriptural knowledge of the whole system of the Gospel. I fear the increasing tendency to regard all doctrinal questions as matters of opinion; and to look on all earnest-minded men as right, whatever doctrines they maintain. I warn you that the sure result of giving way to this tendency will be a vague, low, misty theology—a theology containing no positive hope, no positive motive, and no positive consolation—a theology which will fail most, just when it is most needed—in the day of affliction, the hour of sickness, and on the bed of death.
I know well that it is a thankless office to offer such warnings as these. I know well that those who give them must expect to be called bigoted, narrow-minded, and exclusive. But I cannot review the many errors which prevail on the subject of perseverance, without seeing more than ever, the immense need there is for urging on all to be careful about doctrine. Oh, learn to know what you mean when you talk of believing the doctrines of Christianity! Be able to give a reason of your hope. Be able to say what you think is true, and what you think false in religion. And never, never forget that the only foundation of soundness in the faith, is a thorough textual knowledge of the Bible.
- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) An excerpt from: Never Perish.
A
common reason why many do not hold perseverance is an incorrect view of
the nature of SAVING FAITH. They regard faith as nothing better than a
feeling or impression. As soon as they see a man somewhat impressed with
the preaching of the Gospel and manifesting some pleasure in hearing
about Christ—they set him down at once as a believer! By and by the
man’s impressions wear away, and his interest about Christ and
salvation ceases altogether. Where is the faith he seemed to have? It is
gone. How can his friends, who have pronounced him a believer, account
for it? They can only account for it by saying, that “a man may fall
away from faith,†and that “there is no such thing as
perseverance.†And in short, this becomes an established principle in
their religion.Now this is a mischievous error, and I am afraid sadly common in many quarters. It manifestly may be traced to ignorance of the true nature of religious affections. People forget that there may be many religious emotions in the human mind—with which saving grace has nothing to do. The stony ground hearers received the word with joy—but had no root in them. The history of all revivals proves that there may often be a great quantity of seemingly religious impression, without any true work of the Spirit. Saving faith is something far deeper and mightier than a little sudden feeling. It is an act not of the feelings only—but of the whole conscience, will, understanding, and inward man. It is the result of clear knowledge. It springs from a conscience not grazed merely—but thoroughly stirred. It shows itself in a deliberate, willing, humble dependence on Christ. Such faith is the gift of God—and is never overthrown! Make faith a mere matter of feeling—and it is of course impossible to maintain perseverance for such a one. . .
Not a few are ready to pronounce any change for the better in a man’s character, to be a conversion. They forget that there may be many blossoms on a tree in spring, and yet no fruit in autumn; and that a new coat of paint does not make an old door new. Some, if they see anyone weeping under the influence of a sermon, will set it down at once as a case of conversion. Others, if a neighbor suddenly gives up drinking or swearing, and become a great professor—at once rush to the conclusion that he is converted.
The natural consequence in numerous instances is disappointment. Their supposed case of conversion often turns out nothing more than a case of outward reform, in which the heart was never changed. Their converted neighbor sometimes returns to old habits—as the pig that was washed, to her wallowing in the mire. But then unhappily the pride of the natural heart, which never likes to allow itself mistaken, induces people to form a wrong conclusion about the case. Instead of telling us that the man never was converted at all, they say that “he was converted—but afterwards lost his grace and fell away.â€
The true remedy for this is a right understanding of conversion. It is no such cheap and easy and common thing as many seem to fancy. It is a mighty work on the heart, which none but He who made the world can effect, and a work which will abide and stand the fire. But once take a low and superficial view of conversion, and you will find it impossible to maintain final perseverance.
I entreat you to observe how important it is for Christians to be sound in the faith, and to be armed with clear Scriptural knowledge of the whole system of the Gospel. I fear the increasing tendency to regard all doctrinal questions as matters of opinion; and to look on all earnest-minded men as right, whatever doctrines they maintain. I warn you that the sure result of giving way to this tendency will be a vague, low, misty theology—a theology containing no positive hope, no positive motive, and no positive consolation—a theology which will fail most, just when it is most needed—in the day of affliction, the hour of sickness, and on the bed of death.
I know well that it is a thankless office to offer such warnings as these. I know well that those who give them must expect to be called bigoted, narrow-minded, and exclusive. But I cannot review the many errors which prevail on the subject of perseverance, without seeing more than ever, the immense need there is for urging on all to be careful about doctrine. Oh, learn to know what you mean when you talk of believing the doctrines of Christianity! Be able to give a reason of your hope. Be able to say what you think is true, and what you think false in religion. And never, never forget that the only foundation of soundness in the faith, is a thorough textual knowledge of the Bible.
- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) An excerpt from: Never Perish.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
One
of you is a devil!
(J.R. Miller, "The Shining Light" 1911)
"Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!" John 6:70
In studying the character and the sin of Judas, the following lessons may be brought out:
1. We must not be surprised if some unregenerate men enter the Church, for even among the twelve apostles, was one Judas.
2. It is no proof that Christianity is untrue, when some of its professors prove hypocrites. The defection of Judas did not leave a stain on the name of Christ, nor did it disprove the loyalty and fidelity of the other disciples.
3. One may be very near to Christ--and yet not be made holy in character. Judas was three years with Christ, heard His words, lived in the atmosphere of His love--and remained unchanged. An empty bottle, tightly sealed, may lie long in the ocean and continue perfectly dry within. Just so, a heart sealed to Christ's love, may lie in His bosom for years and not be blessed.
4. Sin grows, and we never can know to what terrible extent a wicked thought or desire may reach!
*Compliments of Grace Gems!
(J.R. Miller, "The Shining Light" 1911)
"Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!" John 6:70
In studying the character and the sin of Judas, the following lessons may be brought out:
1. We must not be surprised if some unregenerate men enter the Church, for even among the twelve apostles, was one Judas.
2. It is no proof that Christianity is untrue, when some of its professors prove hypocrites. The defection of Judas did not leave a stain on the name of Christ, nor did it disprove the loyalty and fidelity of the other disciples.
3. One may be very near to Christ--and yet not be made holy in character. Judas was three years with Christ, heard His words, lived in the atmosphere of His love--and remained unchanged. An empty bottle, tightly sealed, may lie long in the ocean and continue perfectly dry within. Just so, a heart sealed to Christ's love, may lie in His bosom for years and not be blessed.
4. Sin grows, and we never can know to what terrible extent a wicked thought or desire may reach!
*Compliments of Grace Gems!
Saturday, December 21, 2013
The Night Before Jesus Came (sobering thoughts)
'Twas the night Jesus
came and all through the house
Not a person was praying, not one in the house.
The Bibles were left on the shelf without care,
For no one thought that Jesus would come there.
The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And mom in her rocker with baby in her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.
When out of the east there rose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
Tore open the shutters and lifted the sash!
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here!
The light of His face made me cover my head--
It was Jesus returning, just as He said.
Not a person was praying, not one in the house.
The Bibles were left on the shelf without care,
For no one thought that Jesus would come there.
The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And mom in her rocker with baby in her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.
When out of the east there rose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
Tore open the shutters and lifted the sash!
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here!
The light of His face made me cover my head--
It was Jesus returning, just as He said.
And though I possessed
worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.
In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said, "It's not here" my head hung in shame.
The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.
In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said, "It's not here" my head hung in shame.
The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were
ready He rose without a sound
While all the rest were left standing around.
I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I'd known that this was the night.
In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is now drawing near.
There's only one life and when comes the last call
We'll find that the Bible was true after all.
While all the rest were left standing around.
I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I'd known that this was the night.
In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is now drawing near.
There's only one life and when comes the last call
We'll find that the Bible was true after all.
--AUDRY PATRICIA WOOLVERTON
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Happy Thanksgiving- Give thanks to God for all your blessings!
"Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor, and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me “to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”
Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be. That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks, for his kind care and protection of the People of this country previous to their becoming a Nation, for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his providence, which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war, for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed, for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted, for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.
And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions, to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually, to render our national government a blessing to all the People, by constantly being a government of wise, just and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed, to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shown kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord. To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the encrease of science among them and Us, and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best." - George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation, 1789
Monday, September 30, 2013
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Please pray for Pastor Youcef
Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also. Hebrews 13:3
Iran: Letter from Youcef
Greetings from your servant and younger brother in Christ, Youcef Nadarkhani.
To: All those who are concerned and worried about my current situation.
First, I would like to inform all of my beloved brothers and sisters that I am in perfect health in the flesh and spirit. And I try to have a little different approach from others to these days, and consider it as the day of exam and trial of my faith. And during these days which are hard in order to prove loyalty and sincerity to God, I am trying to do the best in my power to stay right with what I have learned from God’s commandments.
I need to remind my beloveds, though my trial has been so long, and as in the flesh I wish these days to end, yet I have surrendered myself to God’s will.
I am neither a political person nor do I know about political complicity, but I know that while there are many things in common between different cultures, there are also differences between these cultures around the world which can result in criticism, which most of the times response to this criticisms will be harsh and as a result will lengthen our problems.
From time to time I am informed about the news which is spreading in the media about my current situation, for instance being supported by various churches and famous politicians who have asked for my release, or campaigns and human rights activities which are going on against the charges which are applied to me. I do believe that these kind of activities can be very helpful in order to reach freedom and respecting human rights in a right way can bring forth positive results.
I want to appreciate all those are trying to reach this goal. But on the other hand, I’d like to announce my disagreement with the insulting activities that cause stress and trouble, which unfortunately are done with the justification (excuse) of defending human rights and freedom, for the results are so clear and obvious for me.
I try to be humble and obedient to those who are in power; obedience to those in the authority that God has granted to the officials of my country, and pray for them to rule the country according to the will of God and be successful in doing this. For I know in this way I have obeyed God’s Word. I try to obey along with those whom I see in a common situation with me. They never had any complaint, but just let the power of God be manifested in their lives, and though sometimes we read that they have used this right to defend themselves, for they had this right, I am not an exception as well and have used all possibilities and so forth and am waiting for the final result.
So I ask all the beloved ones to pray for me as the holy Word has said. At the end I hope my freedom will be prepared as soon as possible, as the authorities of my country will do with free will according to their law and commandments which they are answerable to.
May God’s grace and mercy be upon you now and forever. Amen.
Youcef Nadarkhani
persecution.com
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The crowning sin of the ungodly!
The crowning sin of the ungodly!
(William Bacon Stevens, "The Parables" 1857)
"The one who believes in the Son has eternal life; but the one who refuses to believe in the Son will not see life; instead, the wrath of God remains on him!" John 3:36
Unbelief is the crowning sin of the ungodly! And until Christ is believed in, by a faith which "purifies the soul"--all other changes will be of no avail.
We may correct this evil habit;
we may prune away that sin;
we may turn from debauchery to purity;
we may turn from profanity to reverence;
we may turn from covetousness to charity;
we may polish our characters until we shall appear beautiful to ourselves and others;
we may even have a sentimental regard for Christ, and experience a sort of respect for His ordinances, and join with external devotion in the praises of the sanctuary--
yet, build up these characters as high as we may, adorn them with every worldly ornament, set them off with every earthly virtue--unless Christ is formed in our hearts as the hope of glory--they are nothing "but white-washed sepulchers, which, indeed, appear beautiful outwardly--but within are full of dead bones and all uncleanness!"
On the other hand, no matter how evil may have been our former course, no matter what the turpitude of our character--though our sins are as black as midnight, and as numberless as the stars, and as vile as Hell itself; yet, if we now receive Christ into our hearts in the fullness of a faith that trusts in Him alone--all will be well! "Though your sins are like scarlet--I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson--I will make them as white as wool!" Isaiah 1:18
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
We have published William Bacon Stevens' insightful and sobering article, "Man's Universal Epitaph!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Feel free to forward this on to your friends.
Courtesy of Grace Gems-
(William Bacon Stevens, "The Parables" 1857)
"The one who believes in the Son has eternal life; but the one who refuses to believe in the Son will not see life; instead, the wrath of God remains on him!" John 3:36
Unbelief is the crowning sin of the ungodly! And until Christ is believed in, by a faith which "purifies the soul"--all other changes will be of no avail.
We may correct this evil habit;
we may prune away that sin;
we may turn from debauchery to purity;
we may turn from profanity to reverence;
we may turn from covetousness to charity;
we may polish our characters until we shall appear beautiful to ourselves and others;
we may even have a sentimental regard for Christ, and experience a sort of respect for His ordinances, and join with external devotion in the praises of the sanctuary--
yet, build up these characters as high as we may, adorn them with every worldly ornament, set them off with every earthly virtue--unless Christ is formed in our hearts as the hope of glory--they are nothing "but white-washed sepulchers, which, indeed, appear beautiful outwardly--but within are full of dead bones and all uncleanness!"
On the other hand, no matter how evil may have been our former course, no matter what the turpitude of our character--though our sins are as black as midnight, and as numberless as the stars, and as vile as Hell itself; yet, if we now receive Christ into our hearts in the fullness of a faith that trusts in Him alone--all will be well! "Though your sins are like scarlet--I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson--I will make them as white as wool!" Isaiah 1:18
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
We have published William Bacon Stevens' insightful and sobering article, "Man's Universal Epitaph!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Feel free to forward this on to your friends.
Courtesy of Grace Gems-
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sobering Statistic- Repent and trust the Savior!
US police fatalities up 13 percent in 2011 to 173
Wednesday - 12/28/2011, 12:55pm ET
By GREG BLUESTEIN
Associated Press
(AP) - One Oregon police chief was killed when a man allegedly took the officer's gun and shot him in the head. A policeman in Arizona was fatally shot when he went to a suburban Phoenix apartment complex to help a probation officer. And two South Dakota officers were killed in a shootout after a traffic stop.
The number of fatalities from departments across the country caused by firearms made 2011 one of the deadliest years in recent history for U.S. law enforcement.
Across the nation, 173 officers died in the line of duty, up 13 percent from 153 the year before, according to numbers as of Wednesday compiled by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
The nonprofit group that tracks police deaths also reported that 68 federal, state and local officers were killed by gunfire in 2011, a 15 percent jump from last year when 59 were killed. It marks the first time in 14 years that firearms fatalities were higher than traffic-related deaths. The data shows that 64 officers died in traffic accidents, down from the 71 killed in 2010.
Craig Floyd, the group's chairman, blamed the rise on budget cuts to public safety departments. He cited surveys by police groups that showed many cut back on training and delay upgrading equipment, and referenced a Department of Justice report issued in October that said an estimated 10,000 police officers and sheriff's deputies have been laid off within the past year.
"I'm very troubled that these drastic budget cuts have put our officers at a grave risks," he said. "Our officers are facing a more brazen cold-blooded element and fighting a war on terror, and we're giving them less training and less equipment they need to do their jobs safely."
It's the second year in a row the number of officers killed in the line of duty has grown. In 2009, the death toll dipped to 122 in a 50-year-low that encouraged police groups even though the year seemed to be an aberration. Otherwise, the number of police deaths has topped 160 five other times since 2000. It routinely topped 200 in the 1970s.
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder called the deaths a "devastating and unacceptable trend" and said the Justice Department was determined to reverse the numbers. He said the office is supporting new training regimens and programs, one of which reimbursed departments with more than $23 million for about 80,000 new bulletproof vests. Those vests, he said, saved the lives of 16 officers in the last year.
"I want to assure the family members and loved ones who have mourned the loss of these heroes that we are responding to this year's increased violence with renewed vigilance and will do everything within our power _ and use every tool at our disposal _ to keep our police officers safe," Holder said.
The police deaths were spread across 41 states and Puerto Rico. The largest number of fatalities was reported in Florida, where 14 officers were killed, followed by Texas (13) New York (11), California (10) and Georgia (10). The New York City Police Department and Puerto Rico Police Department, which both lost four officers, were the law enforcement agencies that reported the most deaths.
Meanwhile, one city saw its first ever police death in the line of duty. In Bismarck, N.D. _ a city of 60,000 residents and about 100 sworn officers _ 32-year police veteran Sgt. Steven Kenner was fatally shot. Kenner had been responding to a domestic disturbance call.
The number of firearms-related fatalities, which have risen 70 percent since 2008, was particularly alarming to analysts. Of the 68 deaths, 14 took place while the officer was attempting an arrest, nine occurred during a domestic disturbance call and five were ambushes, according to the data.
One of the victims, Rainier, Ore., Police Chief Ralph Painter, was shot once in the head during a Jan. 5 struggle with a suspect who was accused of taking Painter's pistol from his belt. Glendale, Ariz., Officer Brad Jones was shot in August after a fight with a suspect being sought by a probation officer. And the two officers in South Dakota, James McCandless and Nick Armstrong, were killed in August after conducting what Rapid City authorities have said was a routine traffic stop.
The glimmer of good news in the report was the falling number of traffic-related fatalities involving law enforcement officers, the lowest since 2005. Floyd said revamped policies adopted by some departments on police chases and a revived focus on road safety helped bring down the number of those deaths.
"It's perhaps the most preventable death for law enforcement," he said. "Better training and better awareness of the dangers of traffic safety will help to spare more police lives as we move forward."
http://www.wtop.com/?nid=209&sid=2685547
Wednesday - 12/28/2011, 12:55pm ET
By GREG BLUESTEIN
Associated Press
(AP) - One Oregon police chief was killed when a man allegedly took the officer's gun and shot him in the head. A policeman in Arizona was fatally shot when he went to a suburban Phoenix apartment complex to help a probation officer. And two South Dakota officers were killed in a shootout after a traffic stop.
The number of fatalities from departments across the country caused by firearms made 2011 one of the deadliest years in recent history for U.S. law enforcement.
Across the nation, 173 officers died in the line of duty, up 13 percent from 153 the year before, according to numbers as of Wednesday compiled by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
The nonprofit group that tracks police deaths also reported that 68 federal, state and local officers were killed by gunfire in 2011, a 15 percent jump from last year when 59 were killed. It marks the first time in 14 years that firearms fatalities were higher than traffic-related deaths. The data shows that 64 officers died in traffic accidents, down from the 71 killed in 2010.
Craig Floyd, the group's chairman, blamed the rise on budget cuts to public safety departments. He cited surveys by police groups that showed many cut back on training and delay upgrading equipment, and referenced a Department of Justice report issued in October that said an estimated 10,000 police officers and sheriff's deputies have been laid off within the past year.
"I'm very troubled that these drastic budget cuts have put our officers at a grave risks," he said. "Our officers are facing a more brazen cold-blooded element and fighting a war on terror, and we're giving them less training and less equipment they need to do their jobs safely."
It's the second year in a row the number of officers killed in the line of duty has grown. In 2009, the death toll dipped to 122 in a 50-year-low that encouraged police groups even though the year seemed to be an aberration. Otherwise, the number of police deaths has topped 160 five other times since 2000. It routinely topped 200 in the 1970s.
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder called the deaths a "devastating and unacceptable trend" and said the Justice Department was determined to reverse the numbers. He said the office is supporting new training regimens and programs, one of which reimbursed departments with more than $23 million for about 80,000 new bulletproof vests. Those vests, he said, saved the lives of 16 officers in the last year.
"I want to assure the family members and loved ones who have mourned the loss of these heroes that we are responding to this year's increased violence with renewed vigilance and will do everything within our power _ and use every tool at our disposal _ to keep our police officers safe," Holder said.
The police deaths were spread across 41 states and Puerto Rico. The largest number of fatalities was reported in Florida, where 14 officers were killed, followed by Texas (13) New York (11), California (10) and Georgia (10). The New York City Police Department and Puerto Rico Police Department, which both lost four officers, were the law enforcement agencies that reported the most deaths.
Meanwhile, one city saw its first ever police death in the line of duty. In Bismarck, N.D. _ a city of 60,000 residents and about 100 sworn officers _ 32-year police veteran Sgt. Steven Kenner was fatally shot. Kenner had been responding to a domestic disturbance call.
The number of firearms-related fatalities, which have risen 70 percent since 2008, was particularly alarming to analysts. Of the 68 deaths, 14 took place while the officer was attempting an arrest, nine occurred during a domestic disturbance call and five were ambushes, according to the data.
One of the victims, Rainier, Ore., Police Chief Ralph Painter, was shot once in the head during a Jan. 5 struggle with a suspect who was accused of taking Painter's pistol from his belt. Glendale, Ariz., Officer Brad Jones was shot in August after a fight with a suspect being sought by a probation officer. And the two officers in South Dakota, James McCandless and Nick Armstrong, were killed in August after conducting what Rapid City authorities have said was a routine traffic stop.
The glimmer of good news in the report was the falling number of traffic-related fatalities involving law enforcement officers, the lowest since 2005. Floyd said revamped policies adopted by some departments on police chases and a revived focus on road safety helped bring down the number of those deaths.
"It's perhaps the most preventable death for law enforcement," he said. "Better training and better awareness of the dangers of traffic safety will help to spare more police lives as we move forward."
http://www.wtop.com/?nid=209&sid=2685547
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The threatenings of God (read all the way through!)
The threatenings of God!
(James Smith, "The Threatenings of God")
"What will you say when He punishes you?" Jeremiah 13:21
God has threatened to punish lost sinners--every sinner who lives and dies in unbelief.
His threatenings are written in His Word--that we may read them;
they are published by His ministers--that we may hear them;
they are often repeated--that we may not forget them;
some of them are fulfilled in this world--that we may believe and fear them.
No unbelieving, impenitent, careless sinner shall escape! The whole of the wicked shall be turned into Hell--and all the nations that forget God.
Every one will be punished . . .
justly--in exact proportion to the nature and number of his sins;
universally--in every part of body and soul;
fearfully--without any mixture of mercy;
eternally--without cessation or end!
The threatenings of God are backed and sustained . . .
by His omnipotent power;
by His unchangeable purpose;
by His impartial justice;
by His inflexible holiness;
and by His solemn oath.
They cannot be more sure--nor can they be more dreadful.
Lost sinner, they are all pointed at you! They speak . . .
of snares,
of fire and brimstone,
of a never-dying worm,
of a lake of fire,
of blackness and darkness,
of gnashing of teeth,
of eternal separation from God, and
a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire, that will consume the enemies of God! Hebrews 10:27
Punishment is in store for you! You are warned of it, and invited to escape from it! But if you do not, then "What will you say when He punishes you?"
Can you say that you did not believe that God would be true to His Word? This would be to insult Him to His face, and to tell Him plainly that you thought Him to be a liar!
There is but one alternative; you must make up your mind to suffer the torments of quenchless flames forever--or flee to the Lord Jesus Christ for life and salvation! He is the only way of escape--there is salvation in no other.
There is pardon in His blood.
There is mercy at His throne.
There is pity in His heart.
There is veracity in His Word.
There is hope for you.
Flee to Him--and you are safe!
Reject Him, persevere in sin, prefer the world--and you must forever . . .
be lashed by an accusing conscience,
be tormented by a cruel and remorseless devil,
be punished by a just and holy God, and
condemn yourself throughout eternity!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Compliments of Gracegems
(James Smith, "The Threatenings of God")
"What will you say when He punishes you?" Jeremiah 13:21
God has threatened to punish lost sinners--every sinner who lives and dies in unbelief.
His threatenings are written in His Word--that we may read them;
they are published by His ministers--that we may hear them;
they are often repeated--that we may not forget them;
some of them are fulfilled in this world--that we may believe and fear them.
No unbelieving, impenitent, careless sinner shall escape! The whole of the wicked shall be turned into Hell--and all the nations that forget God.
Every one will be punished . . .
justly--in exact proportion to the nature and number of his sins;
universally--in every part of body and soul;
fearfully--without any mixture of mercy;
eternally--without cessation or end!
The threatenings of God are backed and sustained . . .
by His omnipotent power;
by His unchangeable purpose;
by His impartial justice;
by His inflexible holiness;
and by His solemn oath.
They cannot be more sure--nor can they be more dreadful.
Lost sinner, they are all pointed at you! They speak . . .
of snares,
of fire and brimstone,
of a never-dying worm,
of a lake of fire,
of blackness and darkness,
of gnashing of teeth,
of eternal separation from God, and
a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire, that will consume the enemies of God! Hebrews 10:27
Punishment is in store for you! You are warned of it, and invited to escape from it! But if you do not, then "What will you say when He punishes you?"
Can you say that you did not believe that God would be true to His Word? This would be to insult Him to His face, and to tell Him plainly that you thought Him to be a liar!
There is but one alternative; you must make up your mind to suffer the torments of quenchless flames forever--or flee to the Lord Jesus Christ for life and salvation! He is the only way of escape--there is salvation in no other.
There is pardon in His blood.
There is mercy at His throne.
There is pity in His heart.
There is veracity in His Word.
There is hope for you.
Flee to Him--and you are safe!
Reject Him, persevere in sin, prefer the world--and you must forever . . .
be lashed by an accusing conscience,
be tormented by a cruel and remorseless devil,
be punished by a just and holy God, and
condemn yourself throughout eternity!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Compliments of Gracegems
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Wrestling with God
Wrestling with God.
The Daily Evidence | September 16, 2011 at 6:00 pm | Categories: General | URL: http://wp.me/p1hdG9-eo
It has been said that Jacob was as twisted as a corkscrew, and it took an act of God to straighten him out. Jacob, by an act of deceit, had robbed his older brother, Esau, of their father’s blessing. It was fear that his vengeful brother would kill him that drove Jacob to seek God’s favor.
It is legitimate to come to the Savior in fear. We have greatly wronged the One who gave us life by vio- lating His Law, and His wrath abides upon us. If we do not repent and trust in the Savior, we will reap the terrifying fruit of our actions: death and everlasting hell. What a fearful thing it is to fall into the hands of the living God (Heb. 10:31)! R. C. Sproul rightly said that Jesus doesn’t save us to God, He saves us from God.
Those who have had an encounter with God will, like Jacob, thereafter walk with a limp. Whereas we once had a haughty look and proud heart, we now bow in quiet humility and walk in lowliness of mind. And like Jacob was given a new name, when we meet the Lord we, too, become new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17). We are born again, with a new heart and with new desires.
And just as Jacob wrestled alone with God, each of us must make our own peace with God; no one else can do it for us. Notice that Jacob said he would not let God go until He blessed him. God honors persis- tence. Seek God’s blessing until you know that you have peace with Him. Call on the name of the Lord. Be like the blind man Bartimaeus, who in desperation called to Jesus, despite the rebuke of those around him (Mark 10:48). Do not give up until you have made your own call and election sure (2 Pet. 1:10).
After you encounter God, be earnest always to keep His smile on your life. Jacob asked God for His name and then rejoiced that his life had been preserved (v. 30). Once you have come to know Him who suf- fered for you, you will rejoice with joy unspeakable and never forget the name of the One whose blood pre- served you for His everlasting kingdom.
Genesis 32:24Â Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day.
-Compliments of Wordpress.com
The Daily Evidence | September 16, 2011 at 6:00 pm | Categories: General | URL: http://wp.me/p1hdG9-eo
It has been said that Jacob was as twisted as a corkscrew, and it took an act of God to straighten him out. Jacob, by an act of deceit, had robbed his older brother, Esau, of their father’s blessing. It was fear that his vengeful brother would kill him that drove Jacob to seek God’s favor.
It is legitimate to come to the Savior in fear. We have greatly wronged the One who gave us life by vio- lating His Law, and His wrath abides upon us. If we do not repent and trust in the Savior, we will reap the terrifying fruit of our actions: death and everlasting hell. What a fearful thing it is to fall into the hands of the living God (Heb. 10:31)! R. C. Sproul rightly said that Jesus doesn’t save us to God, He saves us from God.
Those who have had an encounter with God will, like Jacob, thereafter walk with a limp. Whereas we once had a haughty look and proud heart, we now bow in quiet humility and walk in lowliness of mind. And like Jacob was given a new name, when we meet the Lord we, too, become new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17). We are born again, with a new heart and with new desires.
And just as Jacob wrestled alone with God, each of us must make our own peace with God; no one else can do it for us. Notice that Jacob said he would not let God go until He blessed him. God honors persis- tence. Seek God’s blessing until you know that you have peace with Him. Call on the name of the Lord. Be like the blind man Bartimaeus, who in desperation called to Jesus, despite the rebuke of those around him (Mark 10:48). Do not give up until you have made your own call and election sure (2 Pet. 1:10).
After you encounter God, be earnest always to keep His smile on your life. Jacob asked God for His name and then rejoiced that his life had been preserved (v. 30). Once you have come to know Him who suf- fered for you, you will rejoice with joy unspeakable and never forget the name of the One whose blood pre- served you for His everlasting kingdom.
Genesis 32:24Â Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day.
-Compliments of Wordpress.com
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Unfortunate realites....
Not an endorsement, but something to seriously think about. Leveraging your own in-house folks is a real conideration-
http://www.churchsecurityalliance.com/members/churchsecurity/blog/VIEWO+00000002+00000086
http://www.churchsecurityalliance.com/members/churchsecurity/blog/VIEWO+00000002+00000086
Friday, July 29, 2011
Sobering thoughts-
Oh, how dreadful the thought--to go to Hell through the church of God!
(James Smith, "The Alarming Sentence!")
"A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it--but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard: For three years now, I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree--and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil!" Luke 13:6-7
Let us look at Christ's figure a little:
A fig-tree--or a professor of the religion of Christ.
A fruitless fig-tree--or a barren, useless professor.
A fig-tree with leaves of profession--but not the fruit of holiness.
No place is as dangerous for an unconverted person--as the church of God! It is to be feared that many join the church before they are truly converted; and yet very, very few are ever converted after.
Once under a profession--God expects you to live up to that profession.
If you are planted in His vineyard--God expects you to bring forth fruit.
The owner of the vineyard comes and seeks fruit; He comes again, and again; and if He find none, He passes this solemn sentence, "Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil!"
Concerning every fruitless professor God says, "Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil! It drains the ground of its nourishment, for no good purpose. Labor is but lost upon it; expectation is disappointed by it; therefore, Cut it down! My patience and forbearance are worn out; I have come three years seeking fruit--and find none; so, Cut it down!"
It is a fearful sentence! God gives the command to some disease--He says, "Go, cut that barren professor down!" He sends death, like the woodsman with his sharpened axe--at length he strikes the fatal blow; and then the fruitless professor falls!
This command of God is fearful--it is full of terror--it includes utter destruction!
This command is irresistible--we cannot evade it--we cannot brave it out--the boldest heart fails--the strongest body yields to God's "Cut it down!"
This command is final! There is all that is dreadful wrapped up in it--even a certain, fearful expectation of God's judgment, and the raging fire that will consume His enemies!
The fruitless professor is to be cut down and committed to the eternal flames of Hell!
Here is wrath--fearful wrath!
Here is justice--inflexible justice!
Here is vengeance--the vengeance of an infinite God!
O fruitless professor. . .
Consider!
Fear!
Tremble!
Repent!
God looks for fruit from every professor. He will certainly punish--if there is no fruit.
Fruitless professor--where will you be soon? The axe lies at your root, even now! The executioner is only awaiting the command!
Divine mercy will soon urge her last plea; the year of reprieve will soon expire--and then, "Cut it down!" is all that remains! Oh, how dreadful the thought--to go to Hell through the church of God! To profess that you are traveling to Heaven--when in reality you are going with the lost multitude to eternal perdition!
C/O Gracegems
(James Smith, "The Alarming Sentence!")
"A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it--but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard: For three years now, I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree--and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil!" Luke 13:6-7
Let us look at Christ's figure a little:
A fig-tree--or a professor of the religion of Christ.
A fruitless fig-tree--or a barren, useless professor.
A fig-tree with leaves of profession--but not the fruit of holiness.
No place is as dangerous for an unconverted person--as the church of God! It is to be feared that many join the church before they are truly converted; and yet very, very few are ever converted after.
Once under a profession--God expects you to live up to that profession.
If you are planted in His vineyard--God expects you to bring forth fruit.
The owner of the vineyard comes and seeks fruit; He comes again, and again; and if He find none, He passes this solemn sentence, "Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil!"
Concerning every fruitless professor God says, "Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil! It drains the ground of its nourishment, for no good purpose. Labor is but lost upon it; expectation is disappointed by it; therefore, Cut it down! My patience and forbearance are worn out; I have come three years seeking fruit--and find none; so, Cut it down!"
It is a fearful sentence! God gives the command to some disease--He says, "Go, cut that barren professor down!" He sends death, like the woodsman with his sharpened axe--at length he strikes the fatal blow; and then the fruitless professor falls!
This command of God is fearful--it is full of terror--it includes utter destruction!
This command is irresistible--we cannot evade it--we cannot brave it out--the boldest heart fails--the strongest body yields to God's "Cut it down!"
This command is final! There is all that is dreadful wrapped up in it--even a certain, fearful expectation of God's judgment, and the raging fire that will consume His enemies!
The fruitless professor is to be cut down and committed to the eternal flames of Hell!
Here is wrath--fearful wrath!
Here is justice--inflexible justice!
Here is vengeance--the vengeance of an infinite God!
O fruitless professor. . .
Consider!
Fear!
Tremble!
Repent!
God looks for fruit from every professor. He will certainly punish--if there is no fruit.
Fruitless professor--where will you be soon? The axe lies at your root, even now! The executioner is only awaiting the command!
Divine mercy will soon urge her last plea; the year of reprieve will soon expire--and then, "Cut it down!" is all that remains! Oh, how dreadful the thought--to go to Hell through the church of God! To profess that you are traveling to Heaven--when in reality you are going with the lost multitude to eternal perdition!
C/O Gracegems
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Daily Readings from the Life of Christ
Many will say to Me on that day, “Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?” And then I will declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.” -Matthew 7:22–23
On first reading, these are some of the most startling, convicting words Jesus ever uttered. The key issue for Him is obedience to His Word and will. He later declared, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine” (John 8:31; cf. Rom. 6:16; Col. 1:22–23; Heb. 5:9).
All the empty words and professions of respect for Christ and the shallow works of supposed dedication now come to condemn all disobedient claimers to the Lord. When Jesus tells them, “I never knew you,” it does not mean He didn’t know their identities, but in essence, “I didn’t know you as My disciples, and you didn’t really know Me as Lord and Savior. You chose your kingdom, but it wasn’t My kingdom.”
A life that professes to be a Christian but in no way actually reflects His holiness does not possess true salvation. Such a profession comes from a dead faith that results in no good works (James 2:17).
It’s not that faithful disciples will not stumble and sin sometimes; otherwise Jesus would not have taught about forgiveness of debts (Matt. 6:12) and confession of sins (cf. 1 John 1:9). Believers cannot expect perfection in this life, but they should expect to be heading in that direction.
Those who persist in lawlessness show that they are not Christians. No matter how orthodox and outwardly fervent, religious activity that doesn’t stem from repentance of sin and manifest a desire for obedience to Christ is still rebellion against God’s law.
*Compliments of Pastor John MacArthur and gty.org*
On first reading, these are some of the most startling, convicting words Jesus ever uttered. The key issue for Him is obedience to His Word and will. He later declared, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine” (John 8:31; cf. Rom. 6:16; Col. 1:22–23; Heb. 5:9).
All the empty words and professions of respect for Christ and the shallow works of supposed dedication now come to condemn all disobedient claimers to the Lord. When Jesus tells them, “I never knew you,” it does not mean He didn’t know their identities, but in essence, “I didn’t know you as My disciples, and you didn’t really know Me as Lord and Savior. You chose your kingdom, but it wasn’t My kingdom.”
A life that professes to be a Christian but in no way actually reflects His holiness does not possess true salvation. Such a profession comes from a dead faith that results in no good works (James 2:17).
It’s not that faithful disciples will not stumble and sin sometimes; otherwise Jesus would not have taught about forgiveness of debts (Matt. 6:12) and confession of sins (cf. 1 John 1:9). Believers cannot expect perfection in this life, but they should expect to be heading in that direction.
Those who persist in lawlessness show that they are not Christians. No matter how orthodox and outwardly fervent, religious activity that doesn’t stem from repentance of sin and manifest a desire for obedience to Christ is still rebellion against God’s law.
*Compliments of Pastor John MacArthur and gty.org*
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Courageous- spread the Word
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=FJ0121NU&utm_source=GodTube%20Must-See%20Video&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=06/14/2011
Coming soon to a theater near you!!
Coming soon to a theater near you!!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The sanctification of the Spirit
The sanctification of the Spirit
(James Smith, "The Great Comforter" 1858)
"God has chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit." 2 Thessalonians 2:13
To sanctify, is to separate and set apart for holy purposes and holy uses. The Lord has separated His people, by choosing them in Christ to be holy; and He sanctifies them now for Himself--by the power, operation, and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
In sanctification, a work is commenced which is to make us exactly like Christ. A sanctified person has . . .
his heart changed,
his will renewed,
his understanding enlightened,
his conscience purified, and
his affections spiritualized.
Sanctification extends to the whole man, soul and body; and is carried on through . . .
the Word,
the ordinances, and
the providence of God.
Sanctification has its seat in the heart; but it regulates the whole man, and appears in his conduct in every-day life. If a man experiences the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, then . . .
sin grieves him,
Satan tries him,
the world troubles him,
and Heaven attracts him.
Spirit of Jesus, sanctify us deeply, thoroughly--that we may be just like Jesus! Sanctify us . . .
by every trial,
by every affliction,
by every privilege,
by every comfort!
(From Gracegems)
(James Smith, "The Great Comforter" 1858)
"God has chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit." 2 Thessalonians 2:13
To sanctify, is to separate and set apart for holy purposes and holy uses. The Lord has separated His people, by choosing them in Christ to be holy; and He sanctifies them now for Himself--by the power, operation, and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
In sanctification, a work is commenced which is to make us exactly like Christ. A sanctified person has . . .
his heart changed,
his will renewed,
his understanding enlightened,
his conscience purified, and
his affections spiritualized.
Sanctification extends to the whole man, soul and body; and is carried on through . . .
the Word,
the ordinances, and
the providence of God.
Sanctification has its seat in the heart; but it regulates the whole man, and appears in his conduct in every-day life. If a man experiences the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, then . . .
sin grieves him,
Satan tries him,
the world troubles him,
and Heaven attracts him.
Spirit of Jesus, sanctify us deeply, thoroughly--that we may be just like Jesus! Sanctify us . . .
by every trial,
by every affliction,
by every privilege,
by every comfort!
(From Gracegems)
Friday, May 20, 2011
WAKE UP CALL- Please pray...
Coptic Christians Need Protection -- Will the U.S. Help Them?
By Penny Young Nance
Published May 20, 2011
As the Coliseum in Rome deteriorates with every passing day, the thoughts of Christian martyrdom and persecution that happened there also seem ages away.
But as surprising as it may sound, it still happens. Instead of Christians being eaten by lions, they are being bombed during protests. Instead of being burned at the stake, their churches are being set on fire.
Coptic Christians in Egypt, the largest contingent of Christians in the country, are under severe attack — so much so that the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom announced just recently that Egypt made the list of “Countries of Particular Concern.”
That's not really a list anyone wants to be on: countries put on this list are some of the worst violators of religious freedom. But it’s not enough. Calling a country out will not necessarily force them to change their behavior. A bully doesn’t work like that.
Leonard Leo, chairman of the Commission, told reporters that the final straw was the massacre on the day Coptic Christians celebrated their Christmas Eve services. Since January of this year, 400 Christians have been murdered, hundreds more injured, and multiple churches have been burned, including a massacre on New Year’s Day, where a bomb at a church in Alexandria killed 20 Christians.
The Coptic Christians have been begging for protection from the new Egyptian government without any results. Last Saturday, while Christians were being attacked with gasoline bombs and rocks in Cairo, riot police did not immediately respond; and when they did respond, they looked on for a full hour and did nothing. Soldiers had to be brought in to contain the violence.
The U.S. has directed its own military to help provide protection and apparently has attempted to put diplomatic pressure on the new government for protection. But more has to be done. The Egyptian government is filled with cowards bent on letting Christians suffer at the hands of the majority religion of Islam.
There are 10 million Coptic Christians in the Middle East, where they are overshadowed predominately by the Muslim culture and Islam, President Obama’s fabled “religion of peace.” In fact, it is the radicals, who call themselves Muslim, who are using rape, violence, and church-burnings to persecute this minority religion of Christianity in Egypt.
Persecution is nothing new for Christians (at Concerned Women for America we recently interviewed some local Coptic Christians for an upcoming event on Sharia Law, and the stories they told were stark). The Coptic Christians in Egypt aren’t backing down, nor are they intimidated, but they do want protection.
When is enough violence enough? Maybe much hasn’t changed since centuries ago when early Christians were persecuted and martyred.
Bottom line: If we don’t work with the new Egyptian government to ask them to protect this minority, we could see significant religious cleansing in Egypt. And if that happens, then shame on us.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/05/20/coptic-christians-need-protection-help/#ixzz1Mx0c9DXT
By Penny Young Nance
Published May 20, 2011
As the Coliseum in Rome deteriorates with every passing day, the thoughts of Christian martyrdom and persecution that happened there also seem ages away.
But as surprising as it may sound, it still happens. Instead of Christians being eaten by lions, they are being bombed during protests. Instead of being burned at the stake, their churches are being set on fire.
Coptic Christians in Egypt, the largest contingent of Christians in the country, are under severe attack — so much so that the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom announced just recently that Egypt made the list of “Countries of Particular Concern.”
That's not really a list anyone wants to be on: countries put on this list are some of the worst violators of religious freedom. But it’s not enough. Calling a country out will not necessarily force them to change their behavior. A bully doesn’t work like that.
Leonard Leo, chairman of the Commission, told reporters that the final straw was the massacre on the day Coptic Christians celebrated their Christmas Eve services. Since January of this year, 400 Christians have been murdered, hundreds more injured, and multiple churches have been burned, including a massacre on New Year’s Day, where a bomb at a church in Alexandria killed 20 Christians.
The Coptic Christians have been begging for protection from the new Egyptian government without any results. Last Saturday, while Christians were being attacked with gasoline bombs and rocks in Cairo, riot police did not immediately respond; and when they did respond, they looked on for a full hour and did nothing. Soldiers had to be brought in to contain the violence.
The U.S. has directed its own military to help provide protection and apparently has attempted to put diplomatic pressure on the new government for protection. But more has to be done. The Egyptian government is filled with cowards bent on letting Christians suffer at the hands of the majority religion of Islam.
There are 10 million Coptic Christians in the Middle East, where they are overshadowed predominately by the Muslim culture and Islam, President Obama’s fabled “religion of peace.” In fact, it is the radicals, who call themselves Muslim, who are using rape, violence, and church-burnings to persecute this minority religion of Christianity in Egypt.
Persecution is nothing new for Christians (at Concerned Women for America we recently interviewed some local Coptic Christians for an upcoming event on Sharia Law, and the stories they told were stark). The Coptic Christians in Egypt aren’t backing down, nor are they intimidated, but they do want protection.
When is enough violence enough? Maybe much hasn’t changed since centuries ago when early Christians were persecuted and martyred.
Bottom line: If we don’t work with the new Egyptian government to ask them to protect this minority, we could see significant religious cleansing in Egypt. And if that happens, then shame on us.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/05/20/coptic-christians-need-protection-help/#ixzz1Mx0c9DXT
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