October 17 Prepare for the Battle Mark 13:9–11
***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.” Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina…“You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me, you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 13: 9-11)
Recently, I was in Walmart, and I was having a private conversation with one of my fellow pastors, and he was discussing the challenges of the ministry and I said that it has become difficult to minister, in an atmosphere of “folks being offended by everything” mentality and a “fluid” standard that moves, in order, to validate behavior. Keep in mind, we were not talking to this individual and we were outside of the building, and we were 6 feet away from him. First of all, why did he think that he had the right to say anything to us? How is it that he felt that he should “correct” our thoughts? I responded to him in a kind and gentle manner. I posed some questions to him and waited for a response. My Pastor friend was not as patient, and he was ready to go 10 rounds with him. His response was so very sad. He said that we should practice what we preach and that we were, obviously, hate filled and that is why he didn’t attend church. Wow! How interesting! This young man did not know us, and he had no clue of our lives or thoughts or our mission in this life, yet because he has formed an opinion, based on the “acceptable” thoughts of the day, he felt compelled to “straighten us out!” Folks, listen to me…we are living in “perilous times,” and the standards of God’s Word are, absolutely, offensive to this world. Think about what is acceptable today! A State in this country has deemed it necessary to have, in department stores, a section of toys that are “gender neutral” and “pronoun sensitive!” A move to replace “Columbus Day” with Indigenous People’s Day. Political and public figures are being reviles and denigrated for their thoughts and beliefs. We have reached the point, in America, the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave, that if you say anything that is offensive to the “popular” anti-Christian culture, you are deemed a racist, homophobic, misogynistic…. How long will it be before the Bible and those who have claimed Jesus as Savior, will be seen as “People of Hate” and the culture of “anything goes,” will move to “silence” them? It is coming, God’s Word informs us of the challenges to come! So, here is the message for today! Regardless of what this world demands, we MUST stay true to God’s Word, God’s Plan for our lives and we MUST remain committed and faithful, even in the face of ridicule and harassment! Satan and his minions are busy, spreading the hatred and chaos and the idea that there are no absolutes or standards! I claim the Victory in Jesus and I pledge to stand against the Devil and share His LOVE and His Joy and His Peace and His Strength, even in the face of opposition and peril! Folks, the time is coming that persecution will be the acceptable behavior for a lost and hate-filled culture! Remain Obedient, Continue to Grow in His Grace, Continue to “Hide God’s Word in your heart, Stand Strong and “Armor Up” for the battles that are ahead! Do not fear nor be weary… Through Jesu, we are Overcomers! The scriptures tell us of our victory…“These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful” (Revelation 17:14). We Win! Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!