Pastor Al's Comments

2 Sep 16

Is Jesus a Created Being?

A Periscope listener had a question Sunday night about Colossians 1:15 and what it means by saying that Jesus is "the firstborn of every creature."

Although the Bible teaches clearly that Jesus is God and is the Creator of all things, the term, "firstborn of every creature," in Colossians 1:15 can be a bit confusing at first. However, it is further clarified in verse 18 as the "firstborn from the dead."

Likewise, the term "firstbegotten," in Hebrews 1:6, is clarified as referring to the the resurrection of Jesus Christ by the discussion of Jesus, in verses 3-5, having, "by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high," which refers to His sacrificial death, His resurrection from the dead, and His ascension into heaven.

This is made clear by the statement in verse 5, "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee," a clear reference to the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Revelation 1:5 further emphasizes the same thing by describing Jesus as "the first begotten of the dead."

Clearly, the Bible is not using the terms "firstborn" and "firstbegotten" to teach that Jesus is a created being but, rather, to teach that He is the first of the resurrection. This meaning is further underscored by the use of the term "firstfruits" in 1 Corinthians 15:20 where, after a discussion of the importance of the resurrection, Paul writes:

"But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept."

You can listen to my explanation by clicking here: Is Jesus a Created Being?

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2 Sep 16

Program Note

Dr. Beverly Goldstein, candidate for Congress will be joining us today at 1:30 PM.

Dr. Goldstein is running as the Republican candidate for US Congressional District 11 against incumbent Democrat candidate Marcia Fudge.

District 11 is an extremely diverse district encompassing some of the poorest neighborhoods of the east side of Cleveland a western Akron, along with some of the wealthiest suburbs of eastern Cuyahoga County and northwestern Summit County. It is also the district that I live in and where our church, the Richfield Bible Baptist Church is located.

We will be discussing some of Dr. Goldstein's positions and why she is running, as well as what she hopes to accomplish when elected both on behalf of the 11th District and the nation.

Even if you don't live in District 11, you will enjoy listening to Dr. Beverly Goldstein and hearing what she has to say about how to turn this country around. I hope you will join us!

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20 Aug 16

10th Anniversary of Late Night Live with Pastor Al on the radio!

Ten years ago today Late Night Live with Pastor Al made its debut on the radio. Join us as we celebrate our 10th anniversary on the air Sunday night, August 21. We'll be talking about the history of the program, how we came to be on the radio, taking your calls starting at 11:00 PM.

You can listen to Late Night Live with Pastor Al on the radio on the following AM stations:

• 570 WTBM (Tampa, Florida)
• 910 WWTD (Tampa, Florida)
• 1220 WHKW (Independence, Ohio)
• 1440 WHKZ (Warren, Ohio)

You can also listen online at:

• LetsTalkFaith.com
• WHKWradio.com

We hoped and prayed that we could last at least a year when we first started. Little did we know at the time, but 10 years later we would expand the program from one station to four, and add a second, half hour program on Friday afternoons. We have also been blessed to be able to reach out on the internet via our web page and Facebook, and now with Periscope as well.

Please pray for us as we move into our second decade on the radio that God would enable to expand the program and our outreach further so we can continue to uplift and glorify Jesus Christ and His Word, point the lost to the Saviour, and encourage Believers in their daily walk.

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22 Jul 16

Republican National Convention In Cleveland, Ohio

The Republican National Convention was here this past week and what a busy past couple of weeks it has been. Thankfully, it came off with relatively minor incidents that were few and far between and no major protests disrupted the convention.

Our church, and a number of other churches throughout the area, spent time in prayer in the weeks ahead of the convention and preparing for evangelistic outreaches. Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams even requested churches and Christians to join in prayer for the event and was seen praying with people -- even protesters -- on the streets frequently during the convention. A number of pastors, including myself, also recorded prayers that were broadcast on AM 1220 WHKW during the week.

I started off joining Chris Long of the Ohio Christian Alliance on a prayer walk around Quicken Loans Arena, Progressive Field, Tower City, and Public Square on Monday, July 11, praying for peace and safety during the convention.

There was also a large prayer service held at the Wolstein Center, on the campus of Cleveland State University, on Saturday, July 16.

On Monday, July 18, the first day of the convention, I was invited to attend a special pastors briefing with Chad Connelly and Bob Crawford at Cleveland Baptist Church.

While there, Chad Connely asked if I was going to the convention. I said that I would be in the downtown area but did not have a pass to actually get inside. Chad said to not run off because he might be able to get me one. Bob Crawford came up to me afterwards and gave me this:

The following day, the second day of the convention, I joined Pastor John Lutz (North Coast Baptist Church) in Cleveland passing out Welcome to Cleveland RNC evangelistic outreach packets. Each packet had a John & Romans booklet, with a How To Get To Heaven From the RNC cover, and a gospel tract with the Welcome2Cleveland website address. Things were peaceful with no one causing any serious problems or disruptions where we were. People for the most part cheerful and friendly. I'm sure that both the heavy police and security presence, along any people praying, contributed.

The third day of the RNC, Wednesday, I used my pass to get into the convention site itself. I arrived about noon and did not leave until midnight.

I managed to get interviewed by AJ+ (Al Jezeera Media Network). I was asked to day some positive things about a number of people she had pictures of. A Secret Service officer complimented me on my response to the Hillary Clinton picture. I said I was positive she should be in jail because I had the same type of clearance she had and I know people who went to jail for a lot less. They wanted me to say something good about her so I said she was good at staying out of jail (only the last part of that got into their online video!).

I was also there for the now infamous Senator Cruz speech. He entered to enthusiastic applause and a significant number of booes. Within a few minutes he had even his detractors cheering. Everyone was expecting an endorsement, especially after he congratulated Trump for winning the nomination.

All Cruz had to do was say something like, "Join with me to defeat Hillary Clinton in November as I fulfill my pledge to support the nomination of my party!" and the whole arena would have exploded with cheers. He wouldn't have even had to mention Trump's name. Instead, in the last minute or two of his speech, starting with the "vote your conscience" line, he turned virtually the entire crowd against him and he was booed off the stage. Cruz had the crowd in the palm off his hand. He could have even said, "Donald and I have had our personal differences, but now is the time to put aside personal animosities and rise above them for the good of our country." Instead, he committed political suicide.

Check out our Facebook page for more!

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28 Jun 16

Disaster Relief for West Virginia

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10)

You have no doubt heard of the devastating floods that hit West Virginia recently. You may even have family or friends there. You may have even wondered what you can do to help those affected by the flooding. Well, there is something you can do to help!

Pastor Alan Jenkins joined us on last Friday's program (July 1) to talk about his recent trip to West Virginia with the Nehemiah's Network disaster relief team. Pastor Jenkins, and several men from the Columbia Road Baptist Church in North Olmstead, Ohio, took a load of relief supplies down to West Virginia this past week and, along with several local churches in the flood ravaged areas, helped with the relief and cleanup efforts. They plan to return with another load of relief supplies next week.

If you would like to help out with or donate to the Nehemiah's Network disaster relief efforts, please contact Pastor Jenkins at (440) 777-7539, or go to their website at Nehemiah's Network, to see what you can do or give to help.

The Columbia Road Baptist church is located at 4116 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070.

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28 Jun 16

Orlando Terrorist Attack a False Flag Attack?

A caller last Sunday night asked if I thought the Orlando terrorist attack could have been a false flag attack. Well, here is yet another reason to believe that it was not:

Al Qaeda urges lone wolves to target whites, to avoid 'hate crime' label

Apparently, the jihadis are worried that they might not be getting full credit for the attack...

Possible Prophetic Implications of Brexit

European Ministers sounding the death knell of the European Union in the wake of the British vote to leave the EU. Could this be the "deadly wound" to one of the heads of the beast in Revelation 13?

Listen to an excerpt from our Friday, June 24, program as I discuss the possible prophetic implications of Brexit.

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20 Jun 16

California Pastor Celebrates Killing of Homosexuals

I did not get a chance to mention this article on Sunday night's radio program, but when I saw it, the name of this pastor sounded familiar. He has been identified in the media as the pastor of an independent, fundamental Baptist church in Sacramento, California. However, that is not entirely accurate. Pastor Roger Jimenez is a protege of the infamous Pastor Steve Anderson of Tempe, Arizona. Anderson is the ideological heir apparent to the late Pastor Fred Phelps, of Westboro Baptist Church fame (also independent, fundamental Baptist in name only).

Among other things, Jimenez and Anderson believe and teach that the church will go through the Tribulation, but be raptured away before God's Wrath (as if there is no wrath during the Tribulation!); that the seal, trumpet, and vial judgments during the Tribulation are all restatements of the same 7 judgments; and that the Holocaust never happened, the State of Israel is illegitimate, and those calling themselves Jews today are not really Jews.

I first encountered Anderson's material when someone sent me a link to one of Anderson's sermons where he claimed that America is under judgment because men are urinating sitting down (the text, I believe, was taken from either 1 Kings 14:10 or 1 Kings 21:21.) Later, someone sent me a bunch of their DVDs. Unfortunately, unlike Phelps, they sprinkle just enough truth and good points in their messages and materials to suck in the gullible.

Jimenez and Anderson, like Phelps, may call themselves independent, fundamental Baptists, but this independent, fundamental Baptist pastor repudiates them and wants nothing to do with them.

Evidence of the Left's Desire to Label the Bible as Hate Speech

Human Rights Campaign Senior Vice President of Policy and Political Affairs JoDee Winterhof said recently:

House Speaker Paul Ryan and the other members of the House Republican Leadership have a responsibility to immediately condemn Representative Allen's vile and dangerous remarks this morning at an official meeting of the House Republican Conference, during which he said LGBT people are 'worthy of death.' At a time when LGBT people face staggering rates of discrimination, harassment and violence, Representative Allen's comments spread hate that does real harm. Representative Allen should apologize or be censured -- and Republican leaders must make clear that they will not tolerate lawmakers who sow hatred and violence against LGBT people.

Actually, Romans 1:26-32 states how God views certain sins and reminds us that the Bible tells us that the "wages of sin is death":

For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

It also underscores our need of a Saviour because, "...all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23)" "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)"

It's not Rep. Allen's remarks that are "vile and dangerous," it is JoDee Winterhof's demand that Rep. Allen's remarks should be censored that are "vile and dangerous."

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16 Jun 16

Pastor Al and Tom Wallace Discuss the Orlando Terrorist Attack

Sunday, June 12, Tom Wallace, of Fortress of Faith joined me on the program to discuss the recent terrorist attack in Orlando, Florida. You can listen to the program here at: http://live.mapleknoll.us/12jun16.mp3

I mentioned this on the program, though I haven't heard much talk about this since Sunday, that there are several articles online talking about the ACLU lawyer, and other progressives, who found a way to blame the Christian Right for the jihadi terrorist attack in Orlando. The basic thought (or lack thereof) is that the Muslim shooter was motivated by the Christian bigotry and hatred of the LGBT community, rather than the Islamic State's call to kill infidels in America during Ramadan. Nor did Sheikh Farrokh Sekaleshfar's sermon just a few weeks ago in an Orlando area mosque titled, “How to deal with the phenomenon of homosexuality,” have anything to do with it. (The esteemed Imam said in a similar message at the University of Michigan in 2013, “Death is the sentence. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about this. Death is the sentence...We have to have that compassion for people. With homosexuals, it’s the same. Out of compassion, let’s get rid of them now.”)

You can click here to see how the left tries to blame Christians for Orlando: ACLU Lawyer Sounds Off on 'Islamophobia,' Blames Christian Right for Orlando Carnage

Here is the link to the article about the esteemed preacher of peace, Sheikh Farrokh Sekaleshfar: Imam who called for execution of gays preached at Orlando-area mosque weeks before massacre

Here's a bonus link as well to an article discussing what Islam says about homosexuals: Killing Homosexuals Is Not ISIS Law, It Is Muslim Law

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4 Jun 16

Pastor Al guest hosts again on AM 1220 WHKW...

Friday, May 27, I once again had the opportunity to fill in as a guest host for another program that originates on AM 1220 WHKW. Pastor John Lutz asked me to fill in for him once more on his program, For the Cause of Christ, which airs Firday afternoons from 1:00 to 1:30, just before our program. You can listen to that program at: http://live.mapleknoll.us/27may16ftcoc.mp3.

It was a real blessing to be asked to fill in for Pastor Lutz again. Let me encourage you to listen to his program on a regular basis if your are not already doing so. He is a great Bible teacher and preacher.

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14 May 16

Pastor Al guest hosts for two programs on AM 1220 WHKW recently...

Recently, I had the opportunity to fill in as a guest host for two programs that also originate on AM 1220 WHKW. The first was Where Is God's Word?, hosted by Evangelist Bruce Musselman, which airs Tuesday nights at 6:30. Tuesday, 26 April 2016, I filled in for Bruce Musselman on his program, Where Is God's Word? You can listen to the program at: http://whereisgodsword.mapleknoll.us/26apr16.mp3. Then, on Friday, 29 March 2016, I filled in for Pastor John Lutz on his program, For the Cause of Christ. You can listen to that program at: http://live.mapleknoll.us/29apr16ftcoc.mp3.

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14 May 16

Pastor Al guest hosts for two programs on AM 1220 WHKW recently...

Recently, I had the opportunity to fill in as a guest host for two programs that also originate on AM 1220 WHKW. The first was Where Is God's Word?, hosted by Evangelist Bruce Musselman, which airs Tuesday nights at 6:30. Tuesday, 26 April 2016, I filled in for Bruce Musselman on his program, Where Is God's Word? You can listen to the program at: http://whereisgodsword.mapleknoll.us/26apr16.mp3. Then, on Friday, 29 March 2016, I filled in for Pastor John Lutz on his program, For the Cause of Christ. You can listen to that program at: http://live.mapleknoll.us/29apr16ftcoc.mp3.

Lobbyists for a day...

My wife, Kim, and I had the opportunity to visit the Ohio Statehouse and meet several representatives on behalf of the Ohio Pastor Protection Act, H.B. 286, this past Wednesday.

You can see the press conference from that day at https://www.ohiochannel.org/video/press-conference-legislative-ohio-pastor-protection-act

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26 Apr 16

Why Offend the Least When You Can Offend the Most?

Sunday night I spoke at length about the recent decision of Target to allow customers and staff to use the restrooms and changing rooms of their choice. With this decision, Target has decided to potentially offend, put at risk, or at least make uncomfortable, more than 99.7% of the population of America in order to not offend less than 0.3%.

Now, no matter which way Target decided on this issue, they were bound to offend somebody. Common sense says that if you are going to offend somebody no matter what you do, then do that which offends the least rather than the most. Unless your goal is to offend...

Here's the link to the article I discussed: Target proudly welcomes men to use its ladies’ rooms

This situation is all the more reason to believe that we are living in the last days and the return of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is near:

Luke 17:26-30 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.

You can listen to the program at:http://live.mapleknoll.us/24apr16.mp3

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9 Apr 16

Why the Richfield Bible Baptist Church Cannot Be a Member of the Richfield Interfaith Coalition

This past Friday I discussed on the program why the church I pastor cannot affiliate with the local interfaith coalition.

The Richfield Interfaith Coalition was formed in 2015 to celebrate the diversity of religious faiths and groups in Richfield.

Despite the invitation, Our church cannot be a part of this group. The reason why has to do with intolerance. The Richfield Interfaith Coalition is intolerant of what we believe and the Bible is intolerant of what they believe.

You can read the article I wrote at: Why the Richfield Bible Baptist Church Cannot Be a Member of the Richfield Interfaith Coalition.

You can listen to the program at:http://live.mapleknoll.us/8apr16.mp3

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1 Apr 16

Defending Easter

Last Sunday I spent the first half of the program defending the use of the word "Easter", both in reference to the holiday and in its use in Acts 12:4 in the King James Bible.

Up until recently I had been of the opinion, as mentioned in the program, that Easter was actually derived from the name of the fertility goddess Ishtar, also known as Astarte or Ashtaroth. This made sense, on one level, because the two words, Ishtar and Easter, sound similar. In fact, Alexander Hislop, in his book, "The Two Babylons", makes the case that Easter is derived from Ishtar mostly from the fact that they sound similar.

However, a year or so ago I was challenged on this issue. A friend asked if the use of Easter is a mistake because the Greek word translated as Easter is actually pascha, not ishtar. After all, pascha appears 29 times in the New Testament and is translated as passover each time, except in Acts 12:4. Nowhere is it a reference to the pagan feast of Ishtar, though it was a spring festival like Passover as well.

Searching out the issue, I found out that Easter, despite its similar sound, is not entomologically related to Ishtar, but rather derives from ester/oster. Also, it is used in Acts 12:4 in reference to the Christian pascha, which was a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, as opposed to the Jewish Passover, which, as Luke points out in Acts 12:3, had already passed ("Then were the days of unleavened bread"). (The articles listed below go into the details of the Saxon and Teutonic roots of Easter, which have nothing to do with ishtar and everything to due with the resurrection.)

I also pointed out that if Easter is indeed a reference to the pagan Ishtar, then there is a mistake in either the King James Bible or the underlying Greek Textus Receptus. If the KJB is correct using Easter, then the TR should read ishtar rather than pascha in Acts 12:4. Conversely, if the TR use of pascha is correct, then the KJB use of Easter is not only incorrect but unwarranted.

The first part of the program is separated out as a stand alone audio clip, Defending Easter . Or, you can listen to the entire program at 27 Mar 16.

The articles I mentioned are listed below. They go into this subject in much more detail than I had time to cover on the program.

• Easter or Passover by Scott Jones
• Why We Should Not Passover Easter (Part 1) by Nick Sayers
• Why We Should Not Passover Easter (Part 2) by Nick Sayers
• Why We Should Not Passover Easter (Part 3) by Nick Sayers

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23 Mar 16

What Day was Jesus Crucified On?

What day was Jesus Christ actually crucified on? If you are like most people, you probably answered, "Friday." After all, that's what the Bible says, right?

Well, I used to believe that, too. That is, until I got to thinking about a specific, prophetic statement that Jesus made regarding His death, burial, and resurrection. In Matthew 12:38 the Bible tells us that "certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees" said to Jesus, "...Master, we would see a sign from thee."

Jesus answered in verses 39-40, "…An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."

Now, if Jesus was crucified on Friday, we have a problem. Jesus would have been in the tomb ("the heart of the earth") Friday night through Sunday morning. That gives us two days, Saturday and Sunday, and two nights, Friday night and Saturday night. Of course, we could be generous and count parts of days as full days, which is not an uncommon or unreasonable thing to do. Unfortunately, while that does give us three days, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, it still only gives us two nights, Friday night and Saturday night. Of course, this would not be a problem if Jesus had not specifically said that He would be "three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." Not simply three days, but three days AND three nights. Try as we may, there is simply no way to fit three days and three nights between Friday night and Sunday morning.

...We'll be talking about this and more on our Friday, March 25, program.

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8 Mar 16

Is Socialism Biblical?

A few weeks ago I mentioned that a friend of mine's pastor was promoting a socialist candidate for president at church. He wanted to know what I thought about it.

That prompted me to do a monologue regarding socialism in light of the Bible on our  Friday, February 12, program. In doing so, I brought out how socialism promotes breaking at least two of the 10 Commandments: "Thou shalt not covet" and "Thou shalt not steal".

I also looked at the parable, in Matthew 20, of the man who hired people to work in his vineyard. I used that parable to refute socialism and illustrate the Biblical moorings of the free market system, while underscoring the need for compassion in the free market system.

The clip can be heard here at Is Socialism Biblical?

Both the clip and the whole program, along with other clips and programs, are all listed and linked to on the right as well.

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2 Mar 16

Eternal Security, Part Two

Sunday night, February 21, we had a couple of callers with questions regarding the Bible doctrine of eternal security.

The first caller to the program wanted to know if it is possible to lose your salvation or if we are eternally secure. Later in the program, another caller strongly disagreed with my defense of the Bible doctrine of eternal security.

You can listen to the first clip here at Eternal Security Part One.

The second clip can be heard here at Eternal Security Part Two.

Or, if you prefer, you can listen to the entire program at Sunday, February 21.

Both clips and the whole program, along with other clips and programs, are all listed and linked to on the right as well.

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27 Feb 16

Eternal Security, Part One

Last Sunday night we had a couple of callers with questions regarding the Bible doctrine of eternal security.

The first caller to the program wanted to know if it is possible to lose your salvation or if we are eternally secure. That prompted an in depth examination of what the Bible says about salvation in John chapters 3 and 10 and Romans chapter 3, as well as Hebrews chapter 6.

I especially looked at the words "eternal" and "everlasting" and the phrases "should not perish" and "shall never perish". Also, I examined Hebrews 6:4-6 to see if it really teaches that you can lose your salvation or if it is actually teaching that an unsaved person who has been enlightened as to the truth of the gospel cannot get saved when he is rejecting the very gospel of salvation that he has been made to understand.

You can listen to the clip here at Eternal Security Part One.

I will be posting a "Part Two" later, in which I deal with a woman who strongly disagreed with my defense of the Bible doctrine of eternal security.

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26 Feb 16

Epigenes and the Search for Intelligent Life

The incredible complexity and information density of the DNA language is mid boggling in and of itself. Now the discovery of epigenes and the epigenetic language, which is layered over the DNA, raises the level of complexity and information density of the genetic code exponentially and cries out for a Supreme Intellect (God) to create it. This is taken from our Sunday, January 31, 2016, program.

You can listen to the clip here at Epigenes and the Search for Intelligent Life.

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23 Feb 16

Is socialism compatible with Christianity?

Avowed socialist, Bernie Sanders, recently said that Pope Francis is a socialist — just like himself!

So, let's see, is socialism compatible with Christianity?

The Bible says: "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. (Exodus 20:17)" Yet, socialism says, "Be envious and covet the money and things of those who have more than you."

The Bible says: "Thou shalt not steal.(Exodus 20:15)" Yet, socialism says, "Let's take from those that have more than us."

Hmmm, sounds pretty compatible to me...

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2 Feb 16

Correction to Link Above

I recently found that the link in the Listen to a Pastor Al Favorite above was broken. I apologize if you have tried to listen to the program segment, First & Second Amendments to the United States Constitution, and were unable to do so. Here is the correct link:

Listen to a Pastor Al Favorite:

First & Second Amendments to the United States Constitution

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25 Jan 16

A Couple of Thoughts...

...When society devalues and denies life to the youngest among us, the unborn, it is only a matter of time before society devalues and denies life to the oldest among us. In other words, a society that allows abortions will eventually move towards accepting and promoting euthanasia for the elderly, the handicapped, and the ill.

...Scientists who deny "In the beginning God" are now claiming that you don't need something (God) to create something (the universe). Instead, they claim that the universe sprung into existence out of nothing. However, they now claim that nothing is really something because, on the quantum level, particles are continually coming into existence and going out of existence as fast as they come into existence so that, on the balance, something is really nothing. This convoluted reasoning that nothing is really something which is actually nothing is in order to substantiate their claim that nothing created something because nothing is really something which is effectively nothing. If that sounds confusing, think of it this way: If I give you one dollar and then take that dollar back from you right away, you never really had the dollar. Or, to put it another way, if they say this makes sense and then immediately deny the sense they claim, they never really had any sense...

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31 Dec 15

Happy New Year!

I want to thank our listeners and readers of this blog for your faithful prayers and support over the past year. You have helped keep Live with Pastor Al on the air and moving forward.

Please continue to hold us up in prayer in the coming year. With your continued prayers and support, we'll be able to stay on the air and even grow the program in 2016.

My Bible Reading Plan

With the New Year only hours away from when I write this, let me encourage you to read you Bible more in 2016. To help, I wrote an article on Bible reading that I hope will help you.

The article, My Bible Reading Plan is available at http://live.mapleknoll.us/biblereadingplan.html

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8 Dec 15

Biblical Eunuchs

Pastor David Koehler of Loudonville Baptist Temple, called in as a special guest on Sunday, November 29 to discuss a fascinating, and surprisingly relevant, topic that most of us have never heard much about.

Pastor Koehler joined me to talk about what the Bible has to say about eunuchs and how that can provide answers and insight in dealing with those struggling with homosexuality and sexual confusion.

You can listen to the program here at: http://live.mapleknoll.us/29nov15.mp3

Pastor Al's Father Graduates To Heaven

My father, Roy Davis went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 28, at 88 years of age. I want to thank everyone for praying for him during his struggle with cancer and for upholding my family in prayer as well during this time.

I preached his funeral on Wednesday, December 2, from Psalms 91:14-16:

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

I later used 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 for the committal service:

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Again, I want to thank everyone for praying for my family and me. We had a long, emotional day, but it is reassuring to know that, according to 2 Corinthians 5:8, to be absent from the body, for the believer, is to be present with the Lord. Your prayers definitely made a difference.

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28 Nov 15

Biblical Eunuchs: Sunday Night, November 29!

What do you think a eunuch is? Chance are, you are only partially correct in your answer.

Join our special guest, Pastor David Koehler of Loudonville Baptist Temple, as we discuss what the Bible has to say about this fascinating, and surprisingly relevant, topic this Sunday night, November 29.

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16 Nov 15

Pastor Al and Tom Wallace Discuss Islamic Terror Attack In Paris

Tom Wallace, of Fortress of Faith, joined us last night to discuss Islam and the November 13 Islamic terror attack in Paris. We took several phone calls from listeners and discussed a variety of points regarding the subject ranging from:

• Is the Islamic terror Threat real?
• Would disengaging from the Middle East make the terrorist threat go away?
• What does the Quran teach about violence/terror?
• What should our response as Bible believing Christians be in regards to Islam and Muslims?
• Are all Muslims terrorists or potential terrorists?
• Should we and/or can we reach Muslims with the Gospel?
• ...and more!

You can listen to the program right here at:
http://live.mapleknoll.us/15nov15.mp3.

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14 Nov 15

Islamic Terror Attack In Paris - Special Guest Tomorrow Night!

Tom Wallace will join us tomorrow night to discuss the recent Islamic terror attack in Paris. Tom has been on the program with us before to discuss Islam and hosts a program, Fortress of Faith, devoted to informing Christians about Islam and reaching Muslims with the Gospel.

Join us tomorrow night at 11:00 PM as we try to make sense out of these terrorist attacks and how to respond to them in light of God's Word!

New Science Short: The Waters Above

Recently, a listener sent me a question about water in space in relation to Psalm 148:4. I used that question as the basis for a Science In the Bible segment that aired this past Tuesday night on another program that I help out with.

The question was about an article, Scientists Discover Oldest, Largest Body of Water In Existence - In Space , in relation to Psalms 148:4, "Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens."

While the linked article discusses a huge volume of water in space, that is, within the heavens. Psalm 148:4 talks about "waters that be above the heavens", which would seem to be waters existing outside of space. Or, as I mention in the linked Science In the Bible segment, waters that possibly contain or surround the universe.

You can find the clip at: The Waters Above

Program with Evangelist Chris Hofacker, Law to Grace Ministries, is now available online

Chris worked in law enforcement for for many years and has an extensive record of defensive tactics and use of force training. With just over two years before retirement, God called Chris into full time ministry as an evangelist out of Beacon Baptist Church in Lorain, Ohio. Now, in addition to preaching the Word of God, Bro. Hofacker uses his law enforcement training and experience to help churches with security training and awareness.

Our Sunday, November 8, program is now available online at http://live.mapleknoll.us/8nov15.mp3.

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24 Oct 15

New Science Short: Falling Leaves

The Bible says in Isaiah 6:13 But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance is in them, when they cast their leaves: so the holy seed shall be the substance thereof.

While talking about the judgment that was to come upon Judah, God uses the example of when the teil tree and the oak tree cast their leaves. They may appear to be dead but their "substance" is yet in them. Their is a great scientific truth engrained in that statement regarding how and why deciduous trees lose their leaves in the autumn. Listen to the latest uploaded "Science in the Bible" clip...

Falling Leaves

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21 Oct 15

Special Guest: Chris Long (Ohio Christian Alliance) on Ohio Issue 3 (Ohio Marijuana Legalization Initiative)

Our Friday, October 16, program with Chris Long (Ohio Christian Alliance) is now available online at http://live.mapleknoll.us/16oct15.mp3.

Remember, vote NO on Issue 3 (Ohio Marijuana Legalization Initiative - legalizes medical and recreational marijuana use in Ohio and enshrines special economic/monopolistic advantages into the Ohio State Constitution for the investors who initiated Issue 3) and YES on Issue 2 (Ohio Initiated Monopolies Amendment - prevents enshrining monopolies special economic advantages into the Ohio State Constitution, such as in Issue 3)!

You can also go to the Ohio Christian Alliance website and download a printable OCA Voter Guide Bulletin Issues Insert dealing with Issues 2 & 3 at ohioca.org.

Pastor Al Guest Hosts Where Is God's Word?

I had the opportunity to fill in for Bruce Musselman on his program, Where Is God's Word? last Tuesday night, October 20.

Bro. Musselman was unable to host his program and needed someone to fill in for him. Thankfully, he thought of me and so, there I was. You can listen to the program at: http://whereisgodsword.mapleknoll.us/11oct15.mp3

As some of you know, I normally help Bro. Musselman out with his program, Where Is God's Word?, which airs Tuesday nights at 7:30 PM on AM 1220 WHKW. Normally I help with some behind the scenes work, make some announcements for him, and do a Science In the Bible segment (which is where my Science In the Bible segments at the right come from).

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9 Oct 15

New Science Short: Singing Stars

The Bible says in Psalms 148:3, "Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light." And, in Job 38:4,7, "Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding...When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?"

Do the stars literally sing and praise the Lord? Listen to the latest uploaded "Science in the Bible" clip...

You can listen to the audio here: Singing Stars

Our Sunday, September 6 Program

Tom Wallace, with Fortress of Faith joined us on the program a few weeks ago to discuss civilizational jihad and reaching Muslims with the gospel.

Although the program link has been available for several weeks at the right under the listing of previous programs, I neglected to post a notice here in this section. You can listen to the program at:

http://live.mapleknoll.us/6sep15.mp3

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Books by Pastor Al:

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Listen to a previous Live with Pastor Al program:

http://live.mapleknoll.us/12feb16.mp3

Sunday, 11:00 PM (approximately 1 hour)	Friday, 1:30 PM (approximately 1/2 hour)
11 Sep 16
4 Sep 16	9 Sep 16
28 Aug 16	2 Sep 16
21 Aug 16	26 Aug 16
14 Aug 16	19 Aug 16
7 Aug 16	12 Aug 16
31 Jul 16	5 Aug 16
24 Jul 16	29 Jul 16
17 Jul 16	22 Jul 16
10 Jul 16	15 Jul 16 (1:00pm)   15 Jul 16 (1:30pm)
3 Jul 16	8 Jul 16
26 Jun 16	1 Jul 16
19 Jun 16	24 Jun 16
12 Jun 16	17 Jun 16
5 Jun 16	10 Jun 2016
29 May 16	3 Jun 2016
22 May 16	27 May 16 (1:00 PM)   27 May 16 (1:30 PM)
15 May 16	20 May 16
8 May 16	13 May 16
1 May 16	6 May 16 (1:00 PM)   6 May 16 (1:30 PM)
24 Apr 16	29 Apr 16 (1:00 PM)   29 Apr 16 (1:30 PM)
17 Apr 16	22 Apr 16
10 Apr 16	15 Apr 16
3 Apr 16	8 Apr 16
27 Mar 16	1 Apr 16
20 Mar 16	25 Mar 16
13 Mar 16	18 Mar 16
6 Mar 16	11 Mar 16
28 Feb 16	4 March 16
21 Feb 16	26 Feb 16
14 Feb 16	19 Feb 16
7 Feb 16	12 Feb 16
31 Jan 16	5 Feb 16
24 Jan 16	29 Jan 16
17 Jan 16	22 Jan 16
10 Jan 16	15 Jan 16
3 Jan 16	8 Jan 16
27 Dec 15	1 Jan 16
20 Dec 15	25 Dec 15
13 Dec 15	18 Dec 15
6 Dec 15	11 Dec 15
29 Nov 15	4 Dec 15
22 Nov 15	27 Nov 15
15 Nov 15	20 Nov 15
8 Nov 15	13 Nov 15
1 Nov 15	6 Nov 15
25 Oct 15	30 Oct 15
18 Oct 15	23 Oct 15
11 Oct 15	16 Oct 15
4 Oct 15	9 Oct 15
27 Sep 15	2 Oct 15

...Listen to earlier programs at the Live with Pastor Al Audio Archive.

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How'd They Know That?
Science In the Bible:

Crop Rotation

Falling Leaves

Global Flood

Noah's Ark Design

Noah's Ark Impact Resistant

Singing Stars

Stars Cannot be Numbered

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Listen to a Live with Pastor Al favorite:

A Biblical Ghost Story

Pastor Al talks about Job 4:12-21 on Halloween day.

The Bible and UFO's - Part 1

Pastor Al talks about aliens and UFO's in light of God's Word. (Part 1 0f 2)

The Bible and UFO's - Part 2

Pastor Al talks about aliens and UFO's in light of God's Word. (Part 2 of 2)

The Birth of Christ as Recorded in the Scriptures

Pastor Al reads his ebook, The Birth of Christ as Recorded in the Scriptures

Celebrating Darwin Day (2013)

Darwin Day, February 12, is supposed to be a celebration of the Charles Darwin and the theory of evolution. Pastor Al takes a critical look at many of the problems associated with evolution, including the outright frauds, lies, and known false teachings employed to teach evolution.

Chemtrails...BEWARE!

Pastor Al discusses chemtrails and other conspiracies in light of 2 Thessalonians 2:1-10

Could There Be Life Elsewhere In the Universe?

Pastor Al and creationist Ian Juby discuss the possibility and ramifications of life elsewhere in the universe.

Defending Easter and Acts 12:4

Is Easter a pagan holiday or a proper word used in reference to the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ? Is the King James Bible wrong to use Easter in Acts 12:4 or are other versions wrong to use Passover? Pastor Al defends the use of Easter from a Biblical and historical position.

Defense of King James Bible and 1 John 5:7

With special guest, Bruce Musselman

Defense of Marriage

Pastor Al discusses what marriage is according to the Bible and how same sex unions make a mockery of the relationship of Jesus Christ and His church.

Did Humans and Dinosaurs Live Together?

Interview with creationist Ian Juby.

Epigenes and the Search for Intelligent Life

The incredible complexity and information density of the DNA language is mind boggling in and of itself. Now the discovery of epigenes and the epigenetic language, which is layered over the DNA, raises the level of complexity and information density of the genetic code exponentially and cries out for a Supreme Intellect (God) to create it.

Eternal Security Part One

Pastor Al talks with a caller wanting to know if it is possible to lose your salvation.

Eternal Security Part Two

Pastor Al responds to a caller's dissagreement regarding eternal security.

Fake Psychics & Fraudulent Faith Healers

Part 0ne - 10 May 13
Part Two - 12 May 13
Part Three - 17 May 13
Part Four - 19 May 13

First & Second Amendments to the United States Constitution

Pastor Al discusses the history, purpose, and interrelationship of the First and Second Amendments to the United States Constitution

The Four Blood Moons (11 Apr 14)

Pastor Al and Pastor Carl Gallops cut through the hype and hysteria as they discuss the history and implications of the blood moon tetrad phenomena.

Gravitational Waves...Evidence of Creation? (21 Mar 14)

Pastor Al discusses the announcement of the possible discovery of gravitational waves, which astronomers herald as evidence of the Big Bang. Or could they, as Pastor Al points out, actually be evidence of the moment God created the heaven and the earth?

Halloween

Harold Camping Follower Calls To Say Goodby (15 May 2011)

Pastor Al refutes the false prophet, Harold Camping. (I later ran into this caller at the Cuyahoga County Fair in August. He, like Camping, didn't go anywhere on May 21.)

Homosexuality in light of God's Word, Part 1

Pastor Al & Pastor John Lutz (North Coast Baptist Church, Lakewood, Ohio) discuss the issue of homosexuality in the first of a two-part series on For the Cause of Christ, 1 Mar 13.

Homosexuality in light of God's Word, Part 2

Pastor Al & Pastor John Lutz (North Coast Baptist Church, Lakewood, Ohio) discuss the issue of homosexuality in the second of a two-part series on Live with Pastor Al, 1 Mar 13.

Is Islam Compatible with Christianity?

How similar is Islam to Christianity? Are they compatible? How should we treat Muslims? Pastor Al answers a caller's questions.

Is Jesus a Created Being?

Pastor Al answers a listener's question about Colossians 1:15 and what it means by saying that Jesus is "the firstborn of every creature."

Is President Barak Hussein Obama a Muslim?

Pastor Al looks at some things that make you go, "Hmmmm..."

Is Socialism Biblical?

Pastor Al talks about socialism and the free market system in light of God's Word to see which is more Biblical.

The Islamic State, the Kurds, & Isaiah 13

Pastor Al examines the current (5 Oct 14) situation of the Islamic State and the Kurds in light of the prophecies regarding Babylon and the Medes in Isaiah 17.

It's Alive!

Scientists create first new life form from artificial DNA! Or do they...?

Roman Catholic Saints vs. Bible Saints

Pastor Al discusses with a caller what a real saint of God is according to the Bible.

Roman Catholicism and God's Word

Pastor Al responds to a caller's questions and comments about Romann Catholicism compared to Bible.

Time, the Universe, and Heaven

Interview with David M. Pabis, author of The Bible and Time.

Transhumanism: the Quest to Become Gods

Pastor Al discusses the latest incarnation of Satan's lie to Eve, man's attempt to overcome the curse, and the return of the nephilim.

The Trinity

Pastor Al explains the Trinity of God.

Unknown Tongues I & Unknown Tongues II

Pastor Al discusses how speaking in unknown tongues today violates the rules laid down in 1 Corinthians 14:27-28 with a caller and then gets a follow up call by a Pentecostal challenger.

The Waters Above

Psalm 148:4 talks about "waters that be above the heavens", which would seem to be waters existing outside of space. Could these waters possibly contain or surround the universe?

When Does Life Begin?

Pastor Al discusses abortion and when life begins in light of biology, the Bible, and reason.

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Watch Pastor Al...

Watch Pastor Al preach at Bible Baptist Church

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Why I'd Join Al-Qaeda If I Were a Muslim
Preached on 15 January 2008 at the Buckeye Independent Baptist Fellowship.

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The Gospel of Jesus Christ from Way of Life on Vimeo.

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¿Qué es el Evangelio? from Way of Life on Vimeo.

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Read Pastor Al's Articles...

Shemitah Dates & Jubilee Years
Posted: August 28, 2015

Dates converted using the Hebcal online date converter

Gregorian Calendar	Hebrew Calendar	Notes
	Jubilee Year (5776)	Israel rebuilds Temple?
13 September 2015	29 Elul 5775	Blood moon tetrad 2014-2015
29 September 2008	29 Elul 5768...

Click here to read the full article!

The Blood Moon Tetrad Dates
Posted: April 12,, 2014

Basically, the blood moon tetrad (BMT) is a succession of two total lunar eclipses occurring on two Jewish holy days in one year and another two total lunar eclipses on the exact same holy days in the following year, with no other lunar eclipses, partial or total, in between.

Interestingly, the Jewish holy days involved always include the first of the seven feasts mandated in Leviticus 23, Passover, and the last of the Levitical feasts, Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot.

Lunar eclipses are called blood moons because of the reddish color the moon takes on during the eclipse. While lunar eclipses are not uncommon, the blood moon tetrad phenomenon is.

Here is a list of the blood moon tetrads that have occurred since the time of Christ:...

Click here to read the full article!

The Pre-Ezekiel 38 Battle Part Three: Why Those Not Mentioned are Not Mentioned and the Coming Middle Eastern War
Posted: September 15, 2012

     Part one of this series looked at the nations mentioned in Ezekiel 38. By comparing the ancient nations of Ezekiel's day with the modern nations of today, we saw two great alliances. The first alliance, which invades Israel, appears to be led by Russia and includes the Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Iran, Sudan, Kenya, Somalia, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Turkey, Germany, Armenia, and some of the Baltic countries. The second alliance, which opposes the invasion but apparently does not take action to prevent it, appears to be made up of Great Britain, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, France, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and possibly India and the countries of South and Central America.
     In part two of this series we looked at several nations of Ezekiel's day who are not mentioned in Ezekiel 38. These nations, for the most part immediately adjacent to Israel, do not appear to be involved in the events of Ezekiel 38, either by invading or opposing. They correspond to the modern countries of Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and, in the case of Philistia, the Gaza Strip. Also not mentioned is Babylon, which corresponds to Iraq today.
     As pointed out in part two, the countries not mentioned in Ezekiel 38 were not overlooked, nor should we just assume that they are included with those that are mentioned. There is a reason why they are not mentioned. That reason, I believe, helps set the stage for the prophesied invasion of Israel in Ezekiel 38. And that reason is what I plan to explore in the third part of this series.
     A clue to the reason why these countries are not mentioned in Ezekiel 38 is found in verses 10-12...
Click here to read the full article!

The Pre-Ezekiel 38 Battle Part Two: Who Is Not Mentioned In the Ezekiel 38 Invasion of Israel?
Posted: April 20, 2012
     In Part One of this series I looked at the various nations mentioned in Ezekiel 38. The nations identified were a part of two separate groups. The first group, which invades Israel, is composed of Gog, Magog, Meshech, Tubal, Persia, Ethiopia, Libya, Gomer, and Togarmah. These represent the modern countries of Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Persia, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Chad, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, Germany, the Baltic countries, Turkey, and Armenia. The second group, which protests the invasion, consists of Sheba, Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, "with all the young lions thereof." These appear to be the modern nations of Great Britain, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, France, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and possibly India and the countries of South and Central America.
     Now, in Part Two, I want to reexamine Ezekiel 38 to see who is not mentioned. Not just any nation or people not mentioned but, rather, those who we would expect to be mentioned but who are not. Samoa, Fiji, and Vanuatu, for instance, are not mentioned but, then, I would not really expect them to be. Nor would I expect Guam or Papua New Guinea. I would expect, however, to see the nations and peoples that bordered Israel and Judea in Ezekiel's day...
Click here to read the full article!

What Day was Jesus Crucified On?
Posted: March 29, 2012
Revised: March 22, 2016
     What day was Jesus Christ actually crucified on? If you are like most people, you probably answered, "Friday." After all, that's what the Bible says, right?
     Well, I used to believe that, too. That is, until I got to thinking about a specific, prophetic statement that Jesus made regarding His death, burial, and resurrection. In Matthew 12:38 the Bible tells us that "certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees" said to Jesus, "...Master, we would see a sign from thee." Jesus answered in verses 39-40, "...An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."...
Click here to read the full article!

The Pre-Ezekiel 38 Battle Part One: Who Is Mentioned In the Ezekiel 38 Invasion of Israel?
Posted: March 20, 2012
     I have often taught on Ezekiel 38 over the years. It is an amazing prophetic passage that speaks of a coming invasion of Israel by a coalition of Middle Eastern and North African states led by a great northern power. However, there have been several pieces of the puzzle that I have always struggled to fit in place. For instance, why is Israel described in Ezekiel 38:11 as "...the land of unwalled villages...them that are at rest, that dwell safely...dwelling without walls...having neither bars nor gates"? And, why are such nations as Egypt, Edom, Ammon, Moab, and Babylon not mentioned?
     Here is what I mean. The prophecy in Ezekiel 38 begins by saying in verses 1-6:

     "And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him, And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords: Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet: Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: and many people with thee."

     These are the main nations involved in the Ezekiel 38 coalition that invades Israel. Now, when you first look at this passage you may not recognize too many of the nations mentioned right away. That's because the Bible uses the names of various people groups existing in Ezekiel's day instead of the modern place names. If we can identify who those people groups in the Bible are and where they were located, we can identify the modern nations represented by those groups....
Click here to read the full article!

The Candy Man - Physics Version
(Sung to the tune of: The Candy Man)
Posted: 27 January 2012
     Who can take a photon, send it through the sky,
     Send it at the speed o'light until it hits your eye?
     The Candy Man, oh the Candy Man can,
     The Candy Man can 'cause he mixes it with quarks* and makes the theory taste good...
     *In case your wondering, quarks have flavor...
Click here to read the full article!

Is It Wrong to Worship on Sundays?
Posted: April 7, 2010
     After Jesus Christ died on the cross Joseph of Arimathaea, along with Nicodemus, took the body of Jesus, wrapped it in a linen cloth with spices, and laid it in Joseph's tomb. Three days and three nights later, according to the Scriptures, the resurrection occurred. Jesus rose from the grave, victorious over death and sin...
     Now, considering that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is central to Christianity, it seems reasonable that the early Christians would put some importance on the first day of the week, even meeting that day to worship. But did they?...
     So just what does the Bible say about this subject? Is there any evidence in the Bible of Christians meeting and worshiping on the first day of the week?...
Click here to read the full article!

1 Kings 21 (New American Patriot Version)
Posted: March 24, 2010
     1. And it came to pass after these things, that the American people had a system of healthcare, which was in jeopardy, hard by the palace of Obama the would-be-king of America.
     2. And Obama spake unto the American people, saying, Give me your healthcare, that I may have it for a garden of socialism, because it is near unto my house: and I will give ye for it a better healthcare system than it; or, if it seem good to ye, I will give ye the worth of it in money.
     3. And the American people said to Obama, The Constitution forbid it us, that we should give the inheritance of our fathers unto thee.
     4. And Obama came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word which the American people had spoken to him: for they had said, We will not give thee the inheritance of our fathers. And he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.
     5. But Pelosi his comrade came to him, and said unto him, Why is thy spirit so sad, that thou eatest no bread?...
Click here to read the full article!

It's All a Conspirancy!
Posted: January 4, 2010
     I was standing with a group of people at a health care reform conference when an intense, skinny guy with a sparse beard, sharp features, and piercing eyes came over to me. I saw him trying to engage others earlier and would have avoided him except that I was waiting to speak to one of the conference organizers.
     He fixed me with an intense stare and started to lecture me on the dangers of a government takeover of health care. From there he branched off to a variety of conspiratorial rants, ending with why he KNEW that the United States government blew up the World Trade Center towers and sent a missile into the Pentagon on 9-11. Then, looking at my Air Force hat, he said emphatically, "And we NEVER landed on the moon."...
Click here to read the full article!

Security Features and the Word of God
Posted: August 22, 2009
     The bank teller pulled two $50.00 bills out of our church deposit and regarded them suspiciously. They were both dated 1977, making them older than the teller...
Click here to read the full article!

New Chapter Begins
Posted: June 13, 2009
     Lives, like the biographies and memoirs that recount them, are often composed of a number of chapters. Last January the Bible Baptist Church began the process of closing one chapter of its life and opening another. We were about to lose the building that had been home to our church for the last 16 years.
     The opening chapter of the Bible Baptist Church [in Richfield, Ohio] began in September 1982...
Click here to read the full article!

Change We Can Believe In
Posted: January 21, 2009
     More and more scientists are claiming that global warming appears to be giving way to global cooling. It's probably only a matter of time before they begin predicting the arrival of a new ice age, like they did back in the 1970's. Of course, when the earth enters another warming cycle they'll stick global cooling back in the freezer and pull global warming off the back burner. At least until the next cooling cycle occurs. Maybe that's why they are starting to use the term "climate change" more and more.
     Of course, there is a danger that the public might get wise to the climatological doomsayers...
Click here to read the full article!

Who are You Fooling?!
Posted: November 24, 2008
     Are you familiar with Captain Penny's Law?It goes something like this: "You can fool some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time; but you can’t fool mom."
     Captain Penny did not originate that thought but he did much to popularize it on the Captain Penny show in the 1960's. And, though it may have been what mothers wanted their children to believe, it isn't completely correct. Captain Penny may have had good intentions but he was wrong on the last part. It might be difficult to fool mom but the only one you cannot fool is God...
Click here to read the full article!

Pushing Agendas or Defending Truth?
Posted: October 26, 2008
     "Why is my church telling me to vote for Barak Obama?" the caller asked. "We're supposed to be pro-life! We're supposed to support the family! We're supposed to stand against homosexuality! We're supposed to believe the Bible!"
     Why indeed? Could it be that the caller's church has an agenda that is more important to it than Biblical morality?...
Click here to read the full article!

Come Into My Parlor
Posted: September 26, 2008
     Have you ever walked outside on a summer morning and found a dew encrusted spider web glistening in the sunlight? It’s a beautiful sight, unless you are a fly...
Click here to read the full article!

The Weapons of Our Warfare
Posted: July 4, 2008
     Abdel nervously glanced down at his watch. Again. It hadn't changed much since he had looked at it a few moments ago. Less than three minutes to go now. Unconsciously, he rubbed his free hand across his stomach, feeling the lumpy hardness of the vest beneath his coat.
     He closed his eyes and thought for a moment of his family. They would be well take care of, he reminded himself, and well honored. His lips moving slightly, silently, as he quoted several verses from the Qur'an to steady his resolve...
Click here to read the full article!

The Tale of a Reformed Calvinist
Posted: April 15, 2008
     I was sitting at the counter enjoying a donut and a cup of coffee, conversing with the owner and another customer, when a bearded gentleman walked in. Since we were talking about the Bible he decided to join us. Eventually, the conversation turned to the character and nature of God.
     Seeking to make a point, the man reached into his pocket and pulled out a pen and held it up. "See this pen," the man intoned before dropping it to the counter. "God determined before the foundation of the world that I would walk in here on this day at this time and drop this pen on the counter."...
Click here to read the full article!

If I Were a Muslim, I'd Join Al Qaeda
Posted: February 11, 2008
     The Muslim caller to my radio program was upset. He was unhappy because I had implied that members of Al-Qaeda, and similar fundamentalist Muslim groups, were acting in accord with Islamic law and tradition. "No," he assured me, "That is not true. They are not true Muslims. True Muslims do not engage in violence. Islam is a religion of peace and the Prophet Muhammad was a man of peace."
     Now that got me to thinking. On the one hand there are Muslims, such as my caller, who claim that Islam can coexist with peacefully with Christianity, Judaism, and the other religions of the world. On the other hand, there are other Muslims, such as the members of Al-Qaeda, who insist that Islam cannot coexist peacefully with any other religion. Yet, both sides claim to believe the same Qur'an and follow the same prophet. Obviously, then, their understanding and application of Islam must be radically different. So, how are we supposed to know which group's right?
Click here to read the full article!

Where Am I Going?
Posted: February 5, 2008      Imagine that you are standing in a vast parking lot. An attendant approaches and gives you a set of car keys. Looking down at them you see a tag bearing a number corresponding to one of the many cars in the lot.
     "Be sure to follow your map," the attendant says as you turn away in search of your car.
     As you make your way through the lot you see every kind of car or truck imaginable. There are sports cars and luxury cars, old clunkers and restored classics. You pass by row after row of minivans, SUV's, pickup trucks, compacts, sedans, until finally, in a back corner of the lot, you find the car bearing the number on your keys.
Click here to read the full article!

All the World's a Stage
Posted: December 8, 2007
     Back in high school some friends and I kept up a running joke based on a line in Shakespeare's play, As You Like It. "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages." We joked that all you needed to do to have a successful life was to find and edit the script.
     Actually, there is some truth to the idea that "all the world is a stage." According to the Bible the universe is a vast stage where a great drama is playing out, with planet Earth at center stage. It is a vast panorama of triumph and tragedy stretching from the very beginning of time, of rising hopes and crushing despairs, and of the desperate struggles between good and evil over the souls of all who have ever lived or will live.
Click here to read the full article!

Grasping the Trinity
Posted: October 22, 2007
     Probably one of the more difficult theological concepts to grasp is the Trinity. The concept of the Trinity, the idea that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are one God has divided denominations, confused Christians, and given rise to critics. Other religions call it polytheism. Unfortunately, many pastors themselves do not understand it either....
Click here to read the full article!

Did Jesus Go To Hell?
Posted: July 30, 2007
     The crowds gathered at the foot of the cross hurled insults and abuse at the dying man hanging above them. Even the two convicts crucified on either side of him mocked him. However, one of the condemned men had a change of heart. He watched the man on the middle cross patiently endure the abuse heaped upon him and realized that there was something different about him. He realized that the man in the middle, Jesus, was the Christ, the Messiah...
     A few hours later all three were dead. The bodies were removed. The bodies of the two thieves, unless claimed by family or friends, were likely cast into the Valley of Hinnom, a repository of trash, refuse, and filth running along the south side of Jerusalem. Jesus' body, however, was placed in a borrowed tomb...
     That much of the story you know. But what do you know about what happened to Jesus between the crucifixion and the resurrection?...
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A Reasonable Basis of Faith
Posted: July 21, 2007
     Back in the 1980's, while stationed in England with the United States Air Force, I encountered two individuals who had an interest in knowing the future. One was a man who was excited about discovering a book containing the prophesies of Nostradamus. The other was a young woman who was seeing a fortune teller in London. Both were bright, educated USAF members serving in sensitive positions...
     I told the man that I knew a book that was much older and far more accurate than Nostradamus. In fact, I said, every single prophecy that it made has come true, with the exception of those that are yet future. He was excited until he found out that I was talking about the Bible.
     The woman, however, was much more receptive when I told her about the Bible's prophetic accuracy. In fact, she eventually stopped seeing the psychic and ended up trusting Jesus Christ as her Savior...
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True Revival
Posted: June 12, 2007
     A good friend of mine once asked me how you can schedule a revival. He had a point. After all, should we expect God to meet us at OUR appointed time and place? It is almost as if we are telling God to show up on Wednesday night and expect that He will have revived us by Sunday night.
     Sounds good in theory but I have yet to see it happen in reality...
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Wars and Rumors of Wars
Posted: April 20, 2007
     Wars and rumors of wars. You cannot turn on the radio, watch the television, or pick up a paper without hearing about wars and rumors of wars. Matthew could have been writing about our day when he wrote in Matthew 24:6, "And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars..."
     Each day tension in the world ratchets up another notch. North Korea threatens to turn America into "a sea of fire." War in Iraq seems endless. Iran publicly warns that, sandwiched between Iraq and Afganistan, it might be next on America's hit parade. The possibility of a nuclear exchange between India and Pakistan has not completely disappeared. Islamic terrorists still threaten "spectacular attacks" in America and Europe. Communist China rattles its swords and threatens to invade and forcibly reincorporate Taiwan. Civil wars, unrest, and insurrections sweep across parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America...
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Why the Hate?
Posted: March 14, 2007
     I had just gotten home from dropping my daughter, Anna, off at school when the phone rang. It was my wife, Kim, calling from the nursing home where she works as an R.N. "Turn on the TV," she said. I asked her what channel. When she replied, "It doesn't matter." I knew something bad had happened. Little did I realize at the time how bad.
     The second tower had just been hit when Kim called and I saw the beginning of what seemed like endless replays of the impact when I turned on the television. We talked briefly and then Kim had to return to her busy morning routine. Our nation might have been under attack but her patients still needed attention...
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For Such a Time as This?
Posted: February 20, 2007
     The Bible tells us in Nahum 1:2, "God is jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and is furious; the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies." In addition, Romans 12:19 says, "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."
     Now, let me ask you, how does God carry out His vengeance against His enemies? He could, and has, sent avenging angels from time to time. In 2 Kings 19:35 we read "And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses." However, I believe God chooses more often to use human instruments and agencies instead...
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How's Your Vision?
Posted: February 5, 2007
     How's your vision? I don't mean your physical vision or whether or not you need glasses, I'm talking about your spiritual vision.
     Some people have no spiritual vision at all. They are, in effect, spiritually blind. And no wonder, after all, for the Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 4:4 that Satan, the god of this world, has blinded those who have not trusted Jesus Christ as their Savior, "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." ...
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Hello, My Name Is Bob...
Posted: December 30, 2006
     "Hello, My Name Is Bob..." You hear it every night in Alcoholics Anonymous and related 12-step meetings across the country and around the world. The details may change but the basic line remains: "Hello, my name is Bob, and I am an alcoholic." Just drop in the appropriate name and problem and you are set for the evening.
     Unfortunately that very line raises some obstacles to full recovery. Surely there must be a better path to victory than constantly reaffirming bondage to your problem for the rest of your life...
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The Birth of Christ
As Recorded In the Scriptures
Posted: December 27, 2006
The Birth of Christ is pieced together entirely from the King James Version of the Bible. Drawing from passages in Isaiah, Micah, Matthew, Luke, John, Galatians, 1 Timothy, and Hebrews, The Birth of Christ provides a continuous narrative of the birth of Christ without any added words or commentary.
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Twas the Night Before Winter Fest
Posted: December 13, 2006

Twas the night before Winter Fest, when all through the land,
Not a Christian was stirring, nor lending a hand.
Their Christmas was hung by the attorneys with care,
In the hope that their pastors soon would not care...
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The Mystery of Godliness
Posted: November 20, 2006
     Have you ever read or watched a really good mystery? I mean the kind that keeps you turning page after page or watching minute by minute until you finally find out "whodunnit."
     Some mysteries, like Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie's stories, tease you with tantalizing clues and red herrings that keep you guessing until the very end. Others, like television's Columbo series, let you know "whodunnit" in the very beginning but the mystery involves how the hero can prove it.
     Still other mysteries do not involve a crime necessarily. They may be based on a mysterious legend or an odd happening that leads to an exciting adventure, or perhaps a chance encounter or revelation of hidden knowledge that profoundly alters the life of those involved.
     In the Bible we are presented with several "mysteries"...These Bible mysteries largely have to do with the revelation of previously unknown or hidden spiritual truths that have profound implications for mankind...
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Let Me Tell You How To Vote
Posted: November 1, 2006
     Warning: I'm about to do something politically incorrect. Something that some would frown on and others would tell me is not just inappropriate but downright illegal. I'm going to tell you how to vote!
     Let me be clear, however. I did not say that I am going to tell you who or what to vote for. I merely said that I am going to tell you how to vote. There is a difference. I am not going to tell you to vote for Candidate A and against Issue X. Instead, I want to give you two biblical principles to help you decide for yourself whether or not you should vote for Candidate A and against Issue X...
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What's In the Can?
Posted: September 26, 2006
     Imagine walking down the canned goods aisle in the grocery store looking for a can of corn or green beans. Shelf after shelf lines the aisle, each loaded with cans of all shapes and sizes. You look closely at the cans and notice that the labels, while colorful and eye catching, are all strangely similar: SELECT VEGETABLES, CHOICE VEGETABLES, QUALITY VEGETABLES, etc. They all sound good but what's in the can?....
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What Does Tuesday, September 11, 2001, Mean?
Posted: September 11, 2006
     On September 11, 2001, the world as we know it changed. The ugly realities of terrorism and Islamic fanaticism shocked America and the world as three jet airplanes flew into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and into the side of the Pentagon, outside of Washington, D.C., while a fourth jet crashed into the ground in Pennsylvania. Horrified, we watched in our living rooms and offices, in our shops and schools as smoke and flames billowed out of the twin towers and the Pentagon. We continued to look on in unbelief as the twin towers of the World Trade Center collapsed into the heart of the city as thousands fled in panic. While our government and military went into war status, taking unprecedented emergency precautions and actions, we looked into the very face of evil itself....
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Will the Real Palestinians Please Stand Up!
Posted: August 14, 2006
     The plight of the Palestinians fills the news daily, even hourly. But who are the Palestinians and where do they come from?...
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Who Are You Fooling?!
Posted: August 8, 2006
     Are you familiar with Captain Penny's Law? It goes something like this: "You can fool some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time; but you can't fool mom."...
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Where Did I Come From?
Posted: July 15, 2006
     A young, expectant mother was washing dishes when her four year old daughter came rushing in from playing outside. "Mommy," asked the little girl curiously and slightly out of breath, "where did I come from?"...
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Can I Take Anything With Me?
Posted: June 20, 2006
     Have you ever planned to go somewhere and wondered what you could take?...
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This Do In Remembrance
Posted: June 6, 2006
     Growing up in Richfield I remember riding my bike "uptown" for the big parade on Memorial Day. The high school band, along with a mixed assembly of people, vehicles, tractors, and bicycles gathered in the parking lots of the local library and Masonic hall, awaiting the signal to begin. As the band struck up with the crisp military staccato of a rousing march the parade would move out onto the road...
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The Road To Liberalism Is Paved with Good Intentions
Posted: May 5, 2006
     I don't think most genuinely born-again Christians set out to become liberal Christians...
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Why Am I an Independent, Fundamental Baptist?
Posted: April 5, 2006
     Some questions are easy to answer. Ask me why I am an American and I can answer, I was born in the USA. Ask me why I am a Buckeye and I can honestly say, I was born in Ohio...However, when we come to the question of, "Why are I an Independent, Fundamental Baptist?", the answer is a little more complex...
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Pass the Danish, Please
Posted: March 6, 2006
     More than 10,000 Muslims took to the streets of London on Saturday, February 18, to protest the publication of a dozen Danish cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad...
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We Like To Be Liked
Posted: March 6, 2006
     A song I once heard observed, "We love to be loved and we hate to be hated; we like to be liked or at least tolerated." Like most of you, I can identify with its sentiments. I sure would like to be loved, liked, or at least tolerated by everyone. Unfortunately, it just is not possible--especially if you are a preacher!...
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How'd They Know That?
Posted: February 18, 2006
     Everyone knows that lightning streaks down from the sky seeking the tallest object in the area. Anyone who has ever watched a lightning display knows that. However, what nobody knew until the advent of high-speed photography in the 20th Century, is that there is actually a smaller bolt that flashes from the ground up first....
     Now, let me ask you a question, could a man living thousands of years ago know that...?...
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Before & After Ads
Posted: February 18, 2006
     We've all seen them. You know, the ads featuring before and after pictures touting the advantages of weight loss programs, hair restoration products, exercise machines, or even car finish restorers. Combined with personal testimonials, they are one of the most powerful marketing tools available...
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Reading Past the So-and-So's
Posted: January 10, 2006
     Have you ever resolved to read through the whole Bible in a year? Or maybe you just resolved to read it each day? If so, it probably did not take long to realize that there is a big difference between resolving and doing...
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Where's The Money Come From?
Posted: December 15, 2005
    One sure way to upset people is to preach-or in this case, write-about money. Unless, of course, you run a multi-million dollar television ministry. In that case you can get away with asking for donations of hundreds or thousands of dollars several times during each show-err, service without upsetting too many people. And, remarkably, many will send such amounts in without hesitation....
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Get a Loaf of This!
Posted: November 15, 2005
    I like to hear people try to explain away the miracles of the Bible. Usually its good for a laugh because the explanation is harder to believe than the miracle itself....
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How Can I Tell A Good Church from A Bad One?
Posted: October 10, 2005
    Looking for a church can be a daunting task. Should I pick Baptist, Catholic, Methodist, Pentecostal, Nondenominational, or something else? Should I go to the "fastest growing church in town," the "friendliest church around," or the "church on the move." Do I want contemporary, traditional, casual, structured, or unstructured services? Would I feel more spiritual worshiping at that historic downtown building or be more comfortable in the new architectural marvel out by the interstate? What's the difference anyway-aren't all churches essentially the same? How can I tell a good church from a bad one?... Click here to read the full article!

The Fundamental Difference
Posted: September 20, 2005
    What do Bible-believing Christians, pre-Vatican II Catholics, Ultra-Orthodox Jews, and Wahhabi Muslims have in common? Answer: they are all fundamentalists!
    But, just what is a fundamentalist? To answer that, let's take a look at how the term "fundamentalist" appeared in modern Christianity.
    Without understanding what "fundamentalist" really means, or the difference between the fundamentalists and liberals in Christianity and Islam, it is impossible to fully grasp what is going on in the current war on terror. Why? Because fundamentalist Islam has declared war and liberal Christianity can't - and liberal Islam won't - see it....
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No Vacancies at This Court
Posted: July 11, 2005
    Nine of the most powerful individuals in America serve unseen and unknown by most of their fellow countrymen. With the wave of a hand and the stroke of a pen they are able to alter our lives, our laws, and our liberties. They are the Justices of the United States Supreme Court. Recent rulings, resignations, and rumours of resignations, however, have pushed the Court into the forefront of the news...
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Is It or Isn't It?
Posted: June 8,2005
    The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 (SCREA)recently passed in the U.S. House and has been sent on to the Senate. To his credit, President Bush has promised to veto SCREA if it reaches his desk. His veto threat, which would be the first of his presidency, has brought the stem cell controversy to the forefront once again....
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A Little Religion
Posted: May 26, 2005
     Many people like to have "a little religion;" just enough to make them feel good, look respectable, or to salve a guilty conscience. "A little religion," they say, "Is a good thing—so long as you don't overdue it."...
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Blowing Smoke
Posted: May 11, 2005

     The world was saddened, but not surprised, by the recent passing of Pope John Paul II....
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Mary, Joseph, & Baby Jesus Appear On Pastor's Wall?
Posted: March 17, 2005

      Well, we have hid it long enough. I guess it is time to come clean. My wife did not want me to advertise it but we owe it to the world…Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus are on our wall. I am not sure where they go during the day but they appear there every night...
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One Flew Out of the Cuckoo's Nest
Posted: February 14, 2005
    The ACLU is currently fighting efforts in Pennsylvania and elsewhere to require teaching Intelligent Design, along with evolution, in public schools. It is, they say, a thinly veiled attempt to promote religion in the classroom. An attempt which, the ACLU claims, represents an unconstitutional establishment of Christianity....
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Making Sense of Nonsense
Posted: January 14, 2005
     "Everyone's religious beliefs are equally valid," the radio talk show host piously intoned, "Nobody is wrong. And no one has any right to tell someone else that what they believe is wrong."....
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How the ACLU Stole Christmas!
(With Apologies to Dr. Suess!)

Posted: December 14, 2004
Every Christian in America liked Jesus a lot
But the ACLU, who lived on the left coast, Did NOT!
The ACLU hated Jesus! The whole Christmas season!
Now, please don't ask why. No one quite knows the reason....
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