Pastor's Blog
Dr. Terry Coomer has written a very helpful article on ungodly anger. His article addresses:
What the Bible says about anger (a list of verses)
How to deal with anger
Some practical points
See Dr. Coomer’s article on ungodly anger at:
http://hopebiblicalcounselingcenter.com/2014/01/ungodly-anger/
Pastor Robert Hammond, Long Hill Baptist Church, Trumbull, CT
We’ve all dealt with situations that caused us to feel hurt. Thankfully, the Bible prescribes a way to overcome our hurt feelings. Download this Bible study to learn how to implement biblical answer to feeling emotionally hurt.
Source: This study is adapted from How to Deal with Hurt by Dr. Terry Coomer (with permission of the author). For more information, please visit Dr. Coomer’s website at HopeBiblicalCounselingCenter.com
keywords: I feel hurt, I’m hurting, my feelings are hurt
(It’s more than enjoying a meal together!)
Pastor Robert Hammond | Long Hill Baptist Church, Trumbull, CT
In Acts 2:42, the Jerusalem church is described as having “…continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. To say that they “continued stedfastly” means that they pursued those things with earnest. They persevered. They were constantly diligent in things including “fellowship.”
What exactly is fellowship? The word underlying “fellowship” literally refers to joining together or partnering with others -- especially for a beneficial purpose. It implies serving one another (e.g. Ec. 4:9-10), and/or serving others (e.g. 2 Cor. 8:1-4) and/or partnering to reach others with the gospel (e.g. Phil 1:3-5).
The biblical definition of fellowship appears to be closely related to the literal definition of “church.” Recall that “church” literally refers to an assembly of people who are called out - typically for a specific purpose. Church members (those who are called out from the world) are called to assemble together in order to partner in fulfilling God’s purposes, i.e. to fellowship! In short, we are both called-out from the world and called together to partner in fulfilling specific biblical purposes.
Consider the following related observations from Scripture
We are called to fellowship both with the Lord and with other believers -- and we are called to refrain from attempting to fellowship with unbelievers:
A. (1 John 1:3) “That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.”
B. (Ephesians 5:11) “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”
C. (2 Corinthians 6:14) “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?”
Biblical fellowship occurs among believers (1) within a church assembly or (2) between like-minded churches. It specifically cannot exist between believers and unbelievers.
Three biblical purposes of fellowship:
Ecclesiastes 4:9 illustrates the principle of fellowship for the purpose of mutual benefit (serving one another):
Ecclesiastes 4:9 “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.” Here, we find a practical benefit of maintaining close daily fellowship with other believers, i.e. we can help each other “up” when we “fall.”
In 2 Corinthians 8:1-4, Paul illustrates the principle of fellowship as joining together / partnering for the purpose of serving others.
There, Paul writes that the Macedonian churches asked him to take their financial gift to Jerusalem. Paul referred to their desire to partner with him to deliver the gift as “fellowship of the ministering to the saints.”
(2 Corinthians 8:1) “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; 4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.”
Romans 15:26 evidently refers to the same episode as 2 Cor 8. There, the word that is sometimes translated “fellowship” is translated “contribution” -- underscoring the idea that fellowship involves partnership for a beneficial purpose: “For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.”
Other passages illustrate the idea of fellowship as joining together / partnering for the purpose of reaching others (sharing the gospel)
In Galatians 2:9, Paul explains that came into a partnership with James, Cephas (Peter) and John to share the gospel: (Gal 2:9) “And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.”
In Philippains 1:3-5, Paul testified that he prayed for the church there, thanking God for their “fellowship in the gospel,” i.e. their supportive partnership with Paul in his evangelist effort:
(Phil 1:3-5) “3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;” (They had evidently supported him financially).
1. The Bible writers Professed that their words came from God.
The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah testified that he wrote words given to him by God: “Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.” (Jeremiah 1:9)
In Mark 12:36, Mark records Jesus’s assertion that Psalm 110 was inspired by God: “For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, The LORD said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.”
In the New Testament, Paul writes, “ All scripture is given by inspiration of God …” (2 Timothy 3:16). And Peter writes, “For the prophecy came not in old time (the Old Testament period) by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Peter 1:21).
2. The Personal experience of Christians testifies that the Bible is supernatural;
The experience of converts in the New Testament. For example, the apostle Paul was converted to biblical Christianity while traveling for the purpose of persecuting Christians. Having been converted to Christianity, he became perhaps the most fervent preacher of the Bible recorded in the New Testament – despite the severe persecution that he suffered throughout his evangelistic efforts.
The personal experience of Christians today. Countless individuals around the world today report that their lives have been transformed by the Bible. This is consistent with the biblical claim that “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The experience of Christians is also consistent with the biblical assertion that “…the word of God is quick (alive), and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)
3. The Preservation of the Bible despite concerted attempts to eliminate it throughout history. The preservation of God’s word is consistent with the biblical promise that God would preserve his words.
In Psalm 12:6-7, we read, “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. 7 Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.”
In Matthew 5:18, Jesus states, “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” And in Matthew 24:35, Jesus adds, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”
4. The Perfect internal consistency of the Bible testifies to its supernatural origin.
Despite the fact that 40 different men wrote over 1,600 years – some of whom had no access to each other’s writing – the Bible is perfectly consistent with regard to doctrine, themes, places and dates.
5. The fulfillment of Bible Prophesy testifies to the supernatural original of the Bible. The Bible contain more than 1,800 detailed prophesies. All of those prophesies have either already been fulfilled or relate to future events.
For example, the Old Testament prophet Daniel prophesied the major world powers, including the Medo-Persian Empire (539-331 BC), the Greek empire (331-146 BC) and the Roman empire (146 BC – AD 410). Daniel wrote during the Babylonian Empire (605-539 BC), i.e. roughly 200 years prior to the Greek Empire and 400 years before the Roman Empire.
Also note that the Bible accurately predicted both the parentage of Christ (Gen. 3:15; Isa 7:14; Isa 11:1) and his place of his birth (Micah 5:2 vs. Matt 2:1). And Daniel predicted the timing of the crucifixion of Christ.
Further, in Luke 9:22, Jesus prophesied both his death and resurrection: “…The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.”
6. The archeological evidence for Bible People testifies to the truth of the Bible.
At least 53 people who are named in the Old Testament have been found referenced in archeological discoveries – including kings of Israel & Judah, Moab, Assyria, Babylonia and Persia.
The Hittites. At one time, skeptics used the Bible’s 25 references to an unknown Hittite people as proof that the Bible was a myth. However, beginning in the late 19th century, archeologists began uncovering evidence of a Hittite people.
7. The archeological evidence for Bible Places testifies to the truth of the Bible.
In addition to Jericho, biblical places such as Haran, Hazor, Dan, Megiddo, Shechem, Samaria, Shiloh, Gezer, Gibeah, Beth Shemesh, Beth Shean, Beersheba, Lachish, and many other urban sites have been discovered and excavated.
In 2015, archeologists discovered ruins of a place in modern Jordan that fits the description of the city of Sodom. They found ruins a city that was known for its acceptance of homosexuality. They found evidence of a prosperous city that grew large and then suddenly ceased to be inhabited (for more than 700 years). They discovered a layer of ash together with markings that are consistent with burning. In addition, pottery shards display signs of exposure to extremely high temperatures. (Source: Archaeologist Believes to Have Discovered Location of Biblical Sodom, But One Thing Remains a Mystery (2015), https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/51870/sodom-found-archaeological-evidence-proof-biblical-account-health-and-science/, accessed October 7, 2018)
8. The universal tradition of Bible Passages testifies to the supernatural original of the Bible.
For example, many cultures around the world have a tradition of a global flood that appears to reflect the Genesis flood account. Archeologists have discovered evidence that the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, and Greeks all had a tradition of a catastrophic flood. Further, there is evidence that early Chinese people also had knowledge of specific details of the biblical flood account. The evidence includes the fact that the traditional Chinese symbol for boat consists of three elements: (1) the symbol for a vessel, (2) the symbol for the number eight and (3) the symbol for people. This is consistent with the Genesis account of eight people being saved from a flood in an ark — a vessel with eight people!
Pastor Hammond
Living according to “every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4) requires that we make an effort to learn to understand every word of scripture. Yet, any honest pastor will admit that the Elizabethan-era English of our King James Bible can be challenging. One of the first challenges that we face is the so-called Elizabethan pronouns, i.e. thou, thee, thy, thine, ye, and you.
It is fair to ask if these “old fashioned” pronouns really matter – especially given that most modern Bible versions have replaced them with simpler, more familiar words. For example, modern translations typically replace “ye” with “you.” While that change may seem reasonable, readers must understand that dropping the use of the Elizabethan pronouns necessarily obscures the meaning of the Greek and Hebrew words that underlie our English translation. In fact, when translators change “ye” to “you,” they are necessarily changing God’s words!
Let’s take a closer look at the issue. Recall that the New Testament is translated from Greek. Biblical Greek differentiates between singular pronouns that refer to one person (thou, thee, thine) and plural pronouns that refer to multiple people (you, ye). Biblical Greek also differentiates between pronouns that serve as subjects and objects in a sentence. Unfortunately, modern English no longer maintains a system of pronouns that bear the same level of precision. Fortunately, however, the Elizabethan English of our King James Bible utilizes a system of pronouns that perfectly reflects the precision of the original Greek.
You may be wondering if this level of grammatical precision is actually important. Consider the King James translation of John 3:7. There, Jesus said, "Marvel not that I said unto thee (singular, object form), ye (plural, subject form) must be born again." The use of these precise pronouns in our King James translation makes it clear that, while Jesus was speaking to one man (Nicodemus), his message was that all people must be born again. However, the New International Version (NIV) obscures the fact that all must be born again; It translates John 3:7 as “You should not be surprised at my saying, You must be born again.” Because the NIV says "You must be born again," a modern reader would not likely understand that Jesus was actually telling Nicodemus that all people must be born again.
Similar distinctions are made in the Biblical Hebrew underlying our King James Old Testament. Consider Exodus 4:15: "And thou (2nd person singular, subject form) shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy (2nd-person singular, possessive form) mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you (plural, object form) what ye (plural, subject form) shall do" (KJV).
One commentator notes that, in the above verse, we see the pronouns "thou," "thy," "you," and "ye," all fulfilling a specific grammatical function. Modern translations are more likely to read: "You shall speak to him ...and I will be with your mouth,... and will teach you what you shall do." In choosing to simplify the translation, they obscure the precision and clarity of the underlying Hebrew words. However, our King James Bible makes it clear that the LORD told Moses that he (Moses) was to speak to Aaron, and that He (the LORD) would then teach both of them (not just Moses) what they were to do.
Ok, so how can I remember the meaning of each pronoun?
Here’s a simple rule: In our King James bible, pronouns that begin with “T” are always singular (i.e. they refer to one person); Pronouns that begin with “Y” are always plural (i.e. they refer to multiple people). Someone observed that a helpful way to remember this rule is that “t” resembles one "stick" whereas “y” pictures two (or more) sticks stacked together.
Going a step further: Biblical Greek also uses different forms of pronouns to identify subjects and objects in a sentence. Recall that, in a sentence, a subject is the person who is performing an action. The object is a person or thing that is receiving action. Consider this sentence: “Mary is feeding the baby.” “Mary” is the subject, i.e. the one performing the action. “Baby” is the object, i.e. the one upon whom the action is being performed.
Praise God for our Authorized King James Bible – an accurate translation of God’s preserved words.
A Helpful Chart of King James Bible Pronouns:
“T” pronouns are singular (and always 2nd person)
Thou = subject form
Thee = object form
“Thy” & “Thine” show possession
“Y” pronouns are plural (and always 2nd-person)
Ye = Subject form (performs action)
You = object form (received action) Remember: If someone offers you an I-O-U, you expect to receive something. (IOU ~ YOU)
“Your(s)” shows possession
Remember: "T" pronouns are always singular. "Y" pronouns are always plural.
Want to learn more?
Click here to download a presentation about King James pronouns. (PDF)
Click here to get the entire King James Bible in PowerPoint format.
Click here to receive the King James Bible via free daily emails. (You pick the book and then receive one chapter daily. Free / no advertising).
Appreciate this article? Please consider giving a small donation to Long Hill Baptist Church. Click “donate” below. Thank you!
Pastor Robert Hammond
Autumn brings with it the annual debate among Christians about involvement in Halloween. Some hold that Halloween is a harmless time of fun for young people. Others see significant spiritual concerns.
Years ago, when my son was young, my wife and I made the decision to stop participating in Halloween. Our decision was rooted neither in fear of the occult nor in so-called religious legalism. Rather, it was a decision made in response to our growing understanding of what pleases God.
Our decision was also rooted in our understanding that Christians are involved in a real spiritual battle -- a battle against what the Bible calls "principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12). And our decision was rooted in an understanding that Halloween celebrates and exalts those very same enemies.
Many have attempted to trivialize the association of Halloween with the occult. However, the association of Halloween with exaltation of death, the occult and pagan practices cannot be denied. I readily acknowledge that the precise origin of Halloween is open to a degree of debate. That said, it is well-established that the holiday has a strong historical link to the pagan religious practices of both the Celts and the Druids. The World Book Encyclopedia states that Halloween can be traced to Samhain (pronounced "sah-win"), an ancient pagan festival celebrated over 2,000 years ago by Celtic people. The Celts believed that, on that day, the dead could walk among the living.
The modern celebration of Halloween is rooted in historical efforts to "Christianize" the pagan Samhain festival by redefining it as "All Hallows Eve." This syncretism -- the practice of integrating false religious practices into Christianity -- is clearly unbiblical. We aren't commanded to incorporate false practices into Biblical Christianity. Instead, in 2 Corinthians 6:17, we are specifically commanded to "..come out from among them, and be ye separate."
In the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy, the LORD commanded His people to avoid involvement in the occult practices of their Pagan neighbors:
"When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD..." (Deuteronomy 18:9-12)
In the New Testament, the LORD reiterates His commands for believers to have no involvement in practices that are associated with evil. In Romans 12:9, Paul writes, "Abhor (hate extremely) that which is evil; cleave to that which is good." And in Ephesians 5:11, the Bible commands us to "...have no fellowship (association or companionship) with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them." To reprove is to blame or charge with fault. In these two verses alone, we are commanded to (1) cultivate an extreme hated of evil things, (2) refrain from associating with evil practices and (3) to actively charge evil practices with fault against God. Clearly, the celebration of Halloween has no place in the life of a genuine Christian.
This autumn, let's be faithful to God's command to be separate from practices that are associated with evil. Let's refrain from participating in activities that exalt darkness. And having done that, let us develop a singular focus on exalting our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!
Listen to the testimony of a former witch who has now received Jesus Christ as her Savior. Learn why she refuses to celebrate Halloween.
Other helpful articles:
Pastor Robert Hammond
In this brief article, I address a question that was posed to me regarding the religious aspects of Taekwondo and the suitability of Taekwondo for Christians.
In a 2012 article, Taekwondo teacher Ørjan Nilsen argued that practicing Taekwondo should not be viewed as a problem for Christians[1]. Essentially, he claimed that Taekwondo has no religious origin.
However, in the same article, Nilsen acknowledged that Taekwondo has been “influenced” and “shaped” by both Buddhism and Taoism. And he admitted that practicing Taekwondo requires knowledge of certain aspects of both Buddhism and Taoism. Some quotes from his article include:
“... The founders and early pioneers said Taekwondo did not contain any religious foundation, but that it was influenced by ...Buddhism. Taoism also played a part in shaping the culture of the founders of Taekwondo ... it too has influenced the way we practise Taekwondo…”
“…Besides the students oath we do have one "big" remnant from Taoism included in our studies through our practise of the Taegeuk pattern set. These patterns are in theory based on the philosophical foundation of Taoism ….”
“… Taekwondo does have influences ... that might stem from religion, and (requires) a very basic knowledge of Taoism and on a higher lever a very basic knowledge of Budhism …”
Similarly, a May 2013 article in Blackbelt magazine argues that practicing Taekwondo isn't necessarily inconsistent with Christianity. However, the same article states, "In the martial arts, religion has an ... important role. It was crucial in the historical development of many arts, and it continues to dictate the ways in which many students think and act during practice sessions."
The above quotes document that experts in the martial arts admit: (1) Taekwondo has been influenced by both Buddhism and Taoism; (2) Practicing Taekwondo requires basic knowledge of certain aspects of both Buddhism and Taoism; (3) Students are typically influenced by the religious aspects of Taekwondo; and (4) Certain religious aspects of Taekwondo may be incompatible with Christianity.
Why is the religious aspect of Taekwondo a problem for Christians? Buddhism is a false religion that teaches people to take refuge in Buddha, a man who is wrongly revered as a God-like being. Similarly, Taoism is a false religion that teaches people to worship false Gods. Taoism teaches the false doctrine of pantheism -- the idea that the universe is God. As such, both Buddhism and Taoism are entirely incompatible with Christianity – which teaches that (1) the LORD is the one true God (1 Corinthians 8:6) and (2) faith in Jesus Christ alone is the only true way of salvation (John 14:6).
What about those who would argue, "my class is safe because religion is never discussed?" Consider this response from GotQuestions.org: "the false religious overtones of Buddhism are there whether they are expressed verbally or not." And consider this statement from the Blackbelt magazine article referenced above: "More than a few Western students have converted to an Eastern religion simply because their martial art grew from that spiritual tradition."
Importantly, the Bible commands that we separate ourselves from false religious practices and from people who engage in those practices:
Conclusion: Christians should refrain from participating in Taekwondo as well as all of the various other forms of the martial arts.
1] Source: http://jungdokwan-taekwondo.blogspot.com/2012/01/religion-and-taekwondo.html
Pastor Robert Hammond
Over the years, I have read innumerable Christmastime articles that reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Predictably, they contend that Christmas is less about receiving gifts and more about time for family, reflection, and, of course, for giving gifts.
That all sounds good. But, I really like to receive gifts.
One Christmas season, I was invited to share the story of the best gift that I ever received. A friend invited me to share my story with a woman in his family who has been fighting a terminal illness. I quickly accepted the invitation to visit her at a local nursing home.
When I entered her room, I introduced myself and prayed with her. Then, I began telling her the story of the most wonderful gift that I had ever received.
I told her how, when I was a boy, a man took a book and told me the story of a Father who understood the importance of giving like no one else. The man described a Father who was so concerned for others that he was willing to send his only son to die for them.
I told her how that Father’s gift was motivated by unfathomable love. And I told her that his son shared that love so perfectly that he was willing to shed his blood and to die for me.
Puzzled, the women in the hospital bed turned away. And then she turned back toward me.
I explained that the book that was read to me was the Bible. And I explained that Father who was described to me is God the Father. I continued that the son who was offered by his own Father is the long-prophesied Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.
I explained that God the Father sent his son both to be born of a virgin in Bethlehem and to die on the cross at Calvary – exactly as had been prophesied in the Scriptures. And I told her why he did that: According the Bible, I am a sinner. Because of that, I deserve death – eternal separation from God. But, according to the Bible, “the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
I told her that I had received that gift and I explained how she might receive it, too. I explained that the Bible teaches that our good works aren’t good enough to earn forgiveness.
I told her how Jesus said, “ye must be born again.” And I told her that Peter, the Apostle, said, “Repent (turn away from sin) … and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.” I explained that Salvation is a free gift that must simply be received by turning away from sin and by placing one’s faith in Christ.
That night, she too decided to receive the greatest gift that I have ever received – the gift of eternal salvation. She prayed and received Christ as her Savior. Because of her decision to receive Christ, she may know with certainty that, whenever her battle with illness ends, she will be in Heaven with her Savior. That’s a great Christmas gift indeed.
Have you received the greatest gift of all – the Lord Jesus Christ?
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23
Pastor Hammond
Do you ever feel like you’re fighting an endless battle? The Bible is clear that Christians are, in fact, in a spiritual battle! In Ephesians 6:12, Paul wrote, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” The Devil knows that he's already lost us to Christ; he lost that battle. His only remaining opportunity is to engage us in a spiritual battle in order to harm our walk with the LORD. How can a believer be prepared for this battle?
Tactic #1: Choose to Resist the Devil
Praise God that Christians may know that the LORD has perfect authority over the Satan and his demons. So, it comes as no surprise that His words offer the key to winning spiritual battles: In James 4:7, the Bible says, " Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." We’re promised that, when we submit ourselves to the Lord and resist the devil, the devil feels from us!
Tactic #2: Choose to Find Strength for the Battle in the LORD
Praise God, that we don't have to fight the battle our own strength. In Ephesians 6, Pauls tells us that we may find strength for the battle in the Lord, i.e. we can know His strength, His power and His might to overcome the devil. See these verses:
Ephesians 6:10 ¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Tactic #3: Choose to Put on the “Whole Armour of God”
The LORD gives us His strength for the battle -- and he equips with the armor that protect us for the battle. In Ephesians 6, Paul implores us to put on the "whole armour of God" for this battle:
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel.
Our armour includes the truth of God's word (v. 14), righteousness that we have found in Christ (v. 14), the gospel (v. 15), faith (v. 16), salvation (v. 17), and the Holy Spirit (v. 17). Also note the critical importance of the "word of God" (v. 17) and "praying always" (v. 18). When the enemy attacks, we need to get even more serious about being in the Bible and prayer. The enemy know that these are powerful weapons. So, he wants us to be discouraged from reading the Bible and from spending time in prayer. Don't allow him to discourage you! Pray and ask the LORD to help you remain faithful to Bible reading and prayer.
Tactic # 4: Choose to Separate from the Ungodly Influences of the World
The devil is a crafty adversary who conscripts the world and the people of the world to aid him in battle. That’s a practical reason why it’s so important for Christians to separate from the influence of worldly friends and other negative influences. And let's be reminded that the LORD has commanded us to do just that!
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 14 ¶ Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers... 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
Consider your entertainments and your involvements. And consider your social circle. Ask the LORD to show you if you need to make changes. And draw upon His strength to make changes that will be pleasing to Him.
Tactic #5: Praise God that we’ve been made “new creatures” who don’t have to be ashamed of past sins
Perhaps none of the devil’s tactics is so effective as encouraging us to focus on memories of past sin. However, believers may also know that all of those past sins are 100% forgiven. You've been made a "new creature in Christ..." (2 Corinthians 5:17). "... old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." The Bible says that when we are obedient to the LORD, we do not need to be ashamed. In Psalm 119:6, the psalmist wrote, "Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments." It's those unsaved people who are still living wicked lives who should be ashamed. And Psalm 31:17 says, "Let me not be ashamed, O LORD; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed..."
The Bible also says that you can have a "good conscience" when you're prepared to give the gospel to those "evildoers" around you."
1 Peter 3:14-17 14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye:: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. 17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
So, pray and ask the LORD to use an encounter with someone from the past as an opportunity to share the gospel with that person! But also be sure to ask the LORD to protect you from any negative influence as you encounter people from the past.
Tactic #6 - Understand that the battle will end!
The prophet Zechariah reminds us that a day is coming when "all the saints" will come with the LORD (Zech. 14:5) to enjoy a time when the "the LORD shall be king over all the earth" (Zech. 14:9). And shortly thereafter, the Devil will be bound (Rev. 20:2). Praise God that we may look forward to such a wonderful future with Christ!
Conclusion
Praise God that he has given us all that we need to prevail in the Spiritual battle that He has permitted for this time. Let’s re-commit to availing ourselves of all that the LORD has provided! Let’s recommit to spending time in His word. And let’s get serious about being people of prayer. Lastly, let’s ask the LORD for strength to separate from the ungodly influences of this world – and instead, influence those lost people through the Gospel of our savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
First published February 15, 2011.
Pastor Robert Hammond
Over the years, I have read innumerable Christmastime articles that reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Predictably, they contend that Christmas is less about receiving gifts and more about time for family, reflection, and, of course, for giving gifts.
That all sounds good. But, I really like to receive gifts.
One Christmas season, I was invited to share the story of the best gift that I ever received. A friend invited me to share my story with a woman in his family who has been fighting a terminal illness. I quickly accepted the invitation to visit her at a local nursing home.
When I entered her room, I introduced myself and prayed with her. Then, I began telling her the story of the most wonderful gift that I had ever received.
I told her how, when I was a boy, a man took a book and told me the story of a Father who understood the importance of giving like no one else. The man described a Father who was so concerned for others that he was willing to send his only son to die for them.
I told her how that Father’s gift was motivated by unfathomable love. And I told her that his son shared that love so perfectly that he was willing to shed his blood and to die for me.
Puzzled, the women in the hospital bed turned away. And then she turned back toward me.
I explained that the book that was read to me was the Bible. And I explained that Father who was described to me is God the Father. I continued that the son who was offered by his own Father is the long-prophesied Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.
I explained that God the Father sent his son both to be born of a virgin in Bethlehem and to die on the cross at Calvary – exactly as had been prophesied in the Scriptures. And I told her why he did that: According the Bible, I am a sinner. Because of that, I deserve death – eternal separation from God. But, according to the Bible, “the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
I told her that I had received that gift and I explained how she might receive it, too. I explained that the Bible teaches that our good works aren’t good enough to earn forgiveness.
I told her how Jesus said, “ye must be born again.” And I told her that Peter, the Apostle, said, “Repent (turn away from sin) … and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.” I explained that Salvation is a free gift that must simply be received by turning away from sin and by placing one’s faith in Christ.
That night, she too decided to receive the greatest gift that I have ever received – the gift of eternal salvation. She prayed and received Christ as her Savior. Because of her decision to receive Christ, she may know with certainty that, whenever her battle with illness ends, she will be in Heaven with her Savior. That’s a great Christmas gift indeed.
Have you received the greatest gift of all – the Lord Jesus Christ? Learn more
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23)
The Bible offers the certainty of forgiveness and eternal life. However, you may be surprised to learn that the Bible clearly states that we cannot earn eternal life through our own good works.
In Ephesians chapter 2, the apostle Paul writes, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, least any man should boast (Eph. 2:8-9).
No good works - including Baptism - are good enough to get us into Heaven. Why is that? In Romans 3:23, the Bible says that "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." God's perfect holiness and justice requires that a penalty be paid for sin. In fact, in Romans 6:23, the Bibles teaches that "the wages of sin is death." The good news is that the son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ, paid that penalty for us by shedding His blood and dying upon the cross in our place. It is only through repentance and faith in Christ that our sins are forgiven. Romans 6:23 says, "the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." If you will repent and receive Christ as your savior, the Bible says that you can know for certain that you have eternal life (1 John 5:13).
How may I know that my sins are fogiven?
1. Understand that Christ died on the cross and paid for all our sins. Jesus Christ was the perfect sacrifice that satisfied God’s demand for justice against our sins. Because Jesus did that for us, eternal life is offered to us as a free gift. God paid the price for our sin Himself!
2. Turn away from sin and receive Christ as your savior. The Bible teaches that, in order to receive forgiveness of sins, we must repent and place our faith in Christ. To repent is simply to make a conscious decision to turn away from sin and to turn toward Christ. Repentence involves achange of mind that produces a change in action. Repentence normally involves sorrow over our past sins - especially when we realize that Christ died on the cross in our place. The Bible say, "...there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15:10)
The Bible says that "...Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13) "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16). The word believe inJohn 3:16 means to place your trust in Christ. If you will place your trust in Jesus Christ as the one who paid for your sins on the cross of Calvary, and in nothing else, God promises you both forgiveness of sin and eternal life.
Learn more this week at Long Hill Baptist Church. Service information
Pastor Hammond
I've just finished reading "Lest You Fall: Meditations to Fight Moral Impurity" by Rand Hummel.
I'm pleased to recommend this book to anyone seeking to overcome an addiction to immoral thinking, pornography or other sinful sexual behaviors.
Pastor Bob Hammond
At Long Hill Baptist Church, we use the King James Bible (Authorized Version) for all teaching and preaching. While some modern versions can be easier to read, we observe that the King James Bible is the only version that provides an accurate translation of all of God's words.
A variety of excellent tools are available to help believers learn to read and understand our King James Bible. One such tool is a booklet titled, "Understanding the King James Bible: Why Use the King James Bible and How to Understand it" by Dave Olson. (52 pages, including a 10-page dictionary of unfamiliar words).
The cost is $3.00 per copy. Order from Help4U Publications at: http://www.help4upublications.com/product/understanding-the-king-james-bible/
Also see these free online articles:
Please pray for both the people of Thailand and our missionary friends there, the Williams family. Today, we received the note below from the Williams family:
What does martial law mean for Thailand?
At present it means military checkpoints and traffic jams at specific intersections in Bangkok. Otherwise, business continues as usual throughout the country. At least for the present.
Many are relieved at this peaceful intrusion of the military, and view it as a step toward ending the political tension and violence that has dragged out for the last six months in the nations capital.
Although the words, "This is not a coup," are voiced by the military chiefs, they will have to walk a very fine line to maintain order among two protest groups that are bent on civil war.
Just to clarify the scope of martial law, I have enclosed an article below from the AFP that helps to explain the situation.
Please continue to pray that the current struggle for peace in Thailand would prepare hearts to learn of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.
BANGKOK, May 20, 2014 (AFP) - Thailand's powerful military declared martial law Tuesday in a move it said was aimed to "restore peace and order" in the turbulent kingdom.
Invoking the law comes after Thailand's Constitutional Court ousted premier Yingluck Shinawatra in early May following months of protest seeking to oust her government.
But what is the scope of the military's powers? And what are the implications of the move for a nation that has seen 18 actual or attempted coups since 1932? Herewith the main points of the act:
-- The Martial Law Act 1914 gives the army "superior power" over civilian institutions in regard to maintaining public order and security.
-- The army can ban any assembly or meeting and prohibit public movement by land, air or water.
-- Military authorities have the power to censor or shut down newspapers and broadcasters.
-- Soldiers are given full powers to search, requisition, ban, seize, inhabit or destroy "any place". This includes body searches as well as vehicle, home and building inspections and scrutiny of printed material.
-- Army authorities can enlist people to work to help the military and can requisition vehicles, food, tools and weapons from any person or company at any time.
-- The military can impose curfews and prohibit access to certain areas.
-- Authorities can detain anyone it suspects of breaching martial law for up to seven days.
-- Civilian courts remain operational, but a martial court can be given authority to hear criminal trials in cases committed under martial law. It can continue to hear cases even after martial law has been revoked.
Pastor Bob Hammond
Long Hill Baptist Church, Trumbull, CT
All too often, that's our excuse for not doing what God has clearly called us to do. Who hasn't argued with God - claiming there's just no way for us to obey Him in a certain area. We're especially good at offering up this excuse when it comes to sharing the gospel.
For the past several weeks, we've been encouraged to see a few church members participate in our weekly Saturday morning gospel outreach. What a joy to see people obey the Lord's command to "go" to our neighbors who are without Christ (Mat 18:19-20).
And yet, I remain burdened to see more of our members participate in our door-to-door outreach efforts. Some may think, "that's just not my thing." Others may be inclined to say, "I'm not able to speak well." And many may feel, "I don't have the time." Let's be honest: these are just excuses for disobedience. Moses tried some of these same excuses - none of which were acceptable to God! That fact is that we are all called to go. The Lord asks that we "go into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled." (Luke 14:23).
If God asks us to do something, He will make it possible. Let's be reminded that Paul told the Phillipian church members, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." And that is true for every one of us, too.
This weekend, I'd like to again encourage every able-bodied church member to glorify Christ with your obedience to go. If you're not comfortable enough to speak, go along and pray silently. But do go - choosing to change "can't" to "can" - through Christ and for His glory.
We'll meet at church this Saturday morning at 10:00 AM.
Pastor Robert Hammond, Long Hill Baptist Church
I pray that many have taken-up the challenge to begin reading through the entire King James Bible this year. If you haven't already started, why not begin in Genesis 1:1 today? Remember, reading just three and one-half chapters each day will allow you to read the entire Bible in one year. Spouses may find it especially helpful to read the Bible aloud together. My wife and I have recently started this practice; I find it to be a great help and encouragement.
Now, permit me to also encourage you to be memorizing scripture this year. In Psalms 119:11, the psalmist writes, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." Here, we observe that committing the word of God to memory is a great aide to our growth. Permit me to encourage you to take up the challenge to memorize at least one verse each week this year.
There's a number of good approaches to memorizing scripture.
If you are new to memorizing scripture, it will be extremely helpful to begin memorizing individual verses (and short passages) that deal with a variety of doctrines. Here's a link to download a list of 53 verses / short passages: https://db.tt/Sp89EVQj.
Tools that can help. As a tool to help you memorize each verse, consider using index cards to create flash cards (with the reference on one side and the verse on the opposite side). I've also created "digital flashcards" that may be used online to help memorize the same 53 verses & short passages. See the online flashcards at http://quizlet.com/_k0zjh
If you have already memorized many verses, consider taking-up the challenge to memorize complete chapters and even entire books of the Bible. In recent memory, a number of our teens memorized the first chapter of James. While this may seem like a daunting task, we have the Holy Spirit to help us!
The important thing is to have a plan and to be in the habit of memorizing scripture. Also, consider asking someone to partner with you to quiz you and to keep you accountable each week. A final note: As you pray for the Lord's help to take up this important challenge, also pray that the LORD will protect us from pride that can come with success!
Lord, please grow us in 2014 -- to thy glory!
Pastor Robert Hammond, Long Hill Baptist Church
2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
I'm writing to challenge members and friends of Long Hill Baptist Church to join me in reading through the entire King James Bible this year. If you start now, you may complete the entire Bible this year by reading just three and one-half chapters daily! A variety of reading plans are available. One plan involves reading portions of the Old Testament and New Testament each day (click to see plan). The simplest plan is to begin at Genesis 1:1 and read straight through to Revelation. The important thing is to get started to ask the LORD to help you remain faithful. And, if you miss a day, just get back on track the next day!
The idea of reading through the Old Testament can seem daunting. Often, that's because we fail to see how the entire Old Testament relates to Christ. Recall that, in Luke 24:44, Jesus taught that the Old Testament was about him. In Luke Luke 24:44, Jesus says "... all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me." This verse provides the lens through which we may understand the entire Old Testament. In order to apply this "lens," simply keep asking, "How does this passage picture Christ?" For example, in Genesis, consider how Noah's Ark pictures Christ. In Exodus, consider how the design of the tabernacle and the bloody sacrifices picture Christ. In Leviticus, consider how the various elements of the Levitical law picture Christ. When you understand that every detail of Leviticus points to Christ, those details become far less tedious!
Also consider some good tools:
1. I strongly encourage you to get a good reference book that introduces and outlines each book of the Bible. One such book is Geisler's A Popular Survey of the Old Testament. This book is easy-to-read and inexpensive. Importantly, it focuses on how each book relates to Christ. Order from Amazon.
2. Get a good Bible dictionary such as the Concise King James Bible Dictionary from Way of Life Literature ($4.95) Order here
3. Take care to learn some very basic principals for interpreting the Bible. See an introduction here.
4. For deeper study, consider purchasing Bible software such as Swordsearcher ($59.95) Learn more.
5. One completely free tool is an "accountability partner." Ask someone to partner with you to keep you accountable to your Bible reading schedule.
Thankfully, the only tool that's required to begin is a King James Bible! Again, the important thing is to get started and to ask the LORD to help you remain faithful.
Pastor Hammond
One of the clearest teachings of the Bible is the teaching that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation.
Importantly, the Bible also says that we cannot be “the way” for ourselves. Our good works are not good enough for God. In Ephesians 2:8-9, the Bible reads, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
For more information about knowing Jesus Christ as your savior, please see LHBaptist.com/salvation. You may also contact Pastor Hammond at 203-268-5104.
