These Things Matter

In chapter nine of Norman L. Geisler’s book, Chosen But Free, the importance of knowing what one believes theologically is discussed. One great point that the author makes is, “False doctrine will lead to false deeds” (160). Though you may take action based on all that you know is right, you may be a part of wrongful action without realizing so. For example, this can be seen in society when a child crosses the street without looking being aware of his or her surroundings. Though the child does not realize that cars may not be able to stop in time for him or her, that does not change reality. Being ignorant to issues that exist does not make them disappear, and may very well cause future harm to one’s physical or spiritual well-being.
Also, Geisler talks about how extreme Calvinism is not good because believing that people cannot help what actions they take leads them to not seeing themselves as responsible for the sins they commit. Also people should not take credit for something when they will not take the blame for other actions. God should receive all credit for good in humanity, anyways, for He is just and holy and we are not when we are apart from Him (161). Even with God by our side we still have tendency to lean away from good at times. This is why we cannot say that we do good because of how WE deal with circumstances. Another problem with extreme Calvinists that Geisler discusses is that ultimately they push onto God the reason for evil taking place (162). This idea is a contradiction to God’s very character. Therefore, to say that God killed a loved one or “gave Lucifer the desire to rebel against God” is completely unbiblical (162). If that statement were true, the Christian faith would be contradictory.
Later on in the chapter Geisler talks about how Arminians believe that a believer can lose his or her salvation. Again, if this were true, more contradiction would come about because many biblical references say otherwise. Being eternally secure sets Christians apart from other religions because we cannot be separated from God if we are truly His, and He will entirely forgive our sins when we sincerely ask Him to do so. Geisler also points out that since all sin is weighed equally by God and we commit most sins intentionally, it’s clear that God’s grace will cover them all, no matter what (174-175). To say that the sins we commit or the lifestyle we live is unforgiveable by God is say you believe His power to save and transform lives is limited. However, God is NOT confined to certain abilities; He knows all and can do all that is in His character to do. As humans, it’s hard to comprehend such power and ability, but we must keep him out of a box of limitations and be prepared to face the seemingly impossible ways He will work in our lives.

What is worship?

When it comes to worship, music takes on a considerable role. Singing is a way to give glory to God for everything he has done and continues to do in our lives of which we do not deserve. It is a unique, inexplicable sensation that occurs through the deep expression of gratitude through song. However, people tend to think only about the music that is involved. Though music is a significant part of worshipping, worship is done in other overlooked ways. For example, the way people complete tasks, treat people, and deal with everyday situations can be either glorifying or disrespectful to God. The way we treat other people is what is most crucial to draw attention to. Since every human was made special by God and is the most treasured creation of God, everybody should be dealt with in utmost respect. Within this includes addressing people in the correct way when they offend you. It is strange that a good amount of drama through gossip and grudges that I have experienced either through firsthand or eye witness observation has been within the church amongst Christians. Petty disputes too often are blown up into huge conflicts and are dealt with in an unloving way. We were created to love God and show God’s love to other people and do all we can to help them realize the need and fulfillment of accepting the Lord as their Savior. By spending our time trying to prove to everyone that we are right and that they are wrong over unimportant issues, we are ignoring our true purpose of being an aid in mending the broken hearts of nonbelievers. This ignorance does not show our appreciation of God’s gift to us and therefore is far from worship. By hindering worship in one way, other methods are hindered as well. Songs cannot be sung nor sermons implanted fully into our hearts affecting our lives to the fullest when we have this dark blockade in the mix of our thoughts and actions. By improving relationships horizontally, with our brothers and sisters in Christ, our vertical relationship, with God, can then be developed with fewer barriers in between and more praise given because of our cleared, forgiving, and repented hearts.

How My Life Was Changed

 I grew up in a home with family that brought me to church every Sunday. Through their influence and the teachings at church, I learned that there is only one God that created the world and us. God has a son named Jesus that lived among humans, showed God's love for them, and was eventually sacrificed to save them from their selfish heart nature. Because of what Jesus did for all mankind, we can be exempt from consequences of God for our wrongdoing if we sincerely believe that this story is true and accept Him as our Savior, as well as ask for forgiveness for committing these selfish acts. When I heard this as a child, I thought it was an interesting story. When I was about 7 years old it actually hit me that it wasn't just a fairy tale like other stories I have heard; the story of God and Jesus is true! I was still confused about a few aspects of it all so I asked my mom questions about it, which secured my confidence in wanting to put my trust into believing that Jesus is real and that God loves me. Ever since that time, I have never doubted that God is real and that this story is true. However, I realized when i was in middle school that there is more to this religion than believing that it is truth. Not only can you have love for God and know He loves you, but you can have an actual relationship with Him, similar to how you have a relationship with a good friend. You can talk to Him (prayer), He can talk to you, and it is more fulfilling than any other relationship on earth. He doesn't get distracted or forget about you. He's always interested. Seeing as even friends with good intentions let you down once in a while, I figured this was a pretty good deal. From then on, I have been striving to do all I can do to live as He commands me to and keep in communication with Him so I can get to know Him better and show others the amazing friend that is available to them as well. My life has been changed because I now have purpose for living--to please Him and tell others of the wonderful things He has done for us, and continues to do for me on an everyday basis. I have reason to smile and stay optimistic no matter the difficult circumstances I face. The best part is that this isn't just temporary happiness. It is eternal joy.

(Theo202 Caner, Salvation)