Tag: eternal

Proclaim the life-changing truth in these desolate times

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Proclaim the life-changing truth in these desolate times, where many claim that God is a myth, that He doesn’t exist, and that it is up to us—as individuals and communities—to define what is good or bad. In a world where people insist there is no absolute truth, only “my personal truth,” we must boldly declare that God’s existence is real, His moral standards are unchanging, and His truth is eternal.

In these challenging times, we are faced with a growing belief that God is nothing more than a myth, a construct of ancient cultures no longer relevant to modern life. Many assert that God does not exist, dismissing the idea of a Creator as unnecessary in a world driven by science and human reason. Yet, as Christians, we proclaim the truth that God is not only real but actively involved in His creation. Through the person of Jesus Christ, God has revealed Himself in a personal and transformative way, offering hope and meaning to those who seek Him. Our task is to remind the world that God is not distant or irrelevant, but the very foundation of all reality.

The rejection of God’s existence often leads to the belief that moral standards are entirely subjective, created by individuals or communities according to their own preferences and desires. This moral relativism suggests that there is no objective right or wrong, only personal choices based on what feels right to each person. However, as followers of Christ, we declare that true morality comes from God, who has established eternal principles of justice, love, and righteousness. When we build our sense of good and evil on human opinions alone, it leads to confusion, division, and chaos. God’s unchanging standards provide the solid foundation needed for true justice and harmony in our world.

In a culture where people increasingly claim that there is no absolute truth—only “my truth” and “your truth”—we must stand firm in the declaration that truth is not subjective. Jesus Christ declared, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). This means that truth is not something we create or define for ourselves; it is found in the person of Jesus, who reveals the nature and will of God. While personal experiences and perspectives may vary, they do not change the ultimate reality that God is the source of all truth. By proclaiming this life-changing truth, we offer the world not just another opinion, but the solid ground of eternal reality in a world of shifting opinions.

The statement “Proclaim the life-changing truth in these desolate times, where many claim that God is a myth, that He doesn’t exist, and that it is up to us—as individuals and communities—to define what is good or bad. In a world where people insist there is no absolute truth, only “my personal truth,” we must boldly declare that God’s existence is real, His moral standards are unchanging, and His truth is eternal.‘” captures the cultural climate we face today. It reflects a worldview that denies the existence of absolute truth and divine authority, replacing them with relativism and self-determination. Let’s expound on this in light of proclaiming the life-changing truth of Christ:

1. The Challenge of God Being Called a Myth

  • Current Situation: In many circles, God is viewed as a relic of the past, a myth created by primitive societies to explain the unknown. Science, secular philosophies, and humanistic thinking have led many to reject the concept of a divine being. The argument is that we, as humans, no longer need God to define our existence or guide our morality.
  • Proclaiming the Truth: As Christians, we proclaim that God is real, not a myth, and that He has revealed Himself in creation, scripture, and, most significantly, in the person of Jesus Christ. This truth is not simply an abstract idea, but a transformative reality. God’s existence provides meaning, purpose, and hope in a way that human constructs and myths cannot.

2. Standards of Good and Evil Being Set by Individuals, Not God

  • Current Situation: Moral relativism is widespread today. The belief that morality is subjective, that what is “good” or “bad” is determined by individuals or societies, has gained traction. This mindset implies that people, not God, create moral standards, and these standards can shift depending on context or culture.
  • Proclaiming the Truth: As believers, we affirm that God is the ultimate source of morality. His character and nature define what is good, and His laws provide the foundation for understanding right and wrong. When people make themselves the arbiters of morality, it leads to chaos and inconsistency. God’s unchanging standards bring stability and justice, as they are based on His holy nature.

3. The Concept of Personal Truth

  • Current Situation: The idea of “personal truth” has become dominant in contemporary discourse. This mindset suggests that there is no objective or universal truth, only individual interpretations. People believe that what is true for one person may not be true for another, making truth highly subjective and personal.
  • Proclaiming the Truth: The Christian message challenges this by asserting that truth is not subjective; it is found in Jesus Christ, who said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Truth is not a construct of individual experiences but a reality grounded in God’s eternal nature. While people can have different perspectives, there remains an ultimate truth that transcends personal viewpoints.

Conclusion:

In this “desolate time,” where God’s existence is questioned, morality is made subjective, and truth is seen as personal, the Christian message remains as powerful and necessary as ever. Proclaiming the life-changing truth of the gospel is not just about challenging these falsehoods, but about offering people hope, stability, and eternal life through Christ. It confronts the prevailing cultural norms with love and grace, inviting others to a deeper and more meaningful way of living.

The key is to approach these discussions with empathy and understanding, recognizing the deep desire people have for autonomy and personal meaning, while still lovingly pointing them toward the objective reality of God and His transformative truth.

CONTACT ME: [email protected]

Why do other religions integrate Jesus into there religions

Rev. Dr. Cecil W Thorn, ThD

If Jesus’ claim to be the Messiah or God incarnate were a hoax, it would be difficult to explain why so many other religions incorporate him into their beliefs. While these religions often interpret Jesus differently than Christianity, they still regard him as a significant figure. The fact that he holds such a central place across religious traditions suggests that his life, teachings, and legacy have had an enduring impact on human spirituality and history.

Reasons Why Other Religions Incorporate Jesus:

  1. Influence of His Teachings: Jesus’ teachings on love, compassion, justice, and forgiveness resonate with universal values that transcend specific religious boundaries.
  2. Historical Significance: As a major historical figure, Jesus has influenced the cultural and philosophical development of many societies.
  3. Respect for Prophets and Teachers: Many religions incorporate Jesus as part of their broader tradition of respecting prophets, sages, or enlightened beings.
  4. Adaptation of Ideas: Some religions have adapted aspects of Jesus’ message to fit within their own religious framework, even if they do not accept him as the divine Son of God.

Here is a list of various religions and how they incorporate Jesus:

1. Islam

  • Title for Jesus: Isa (Jesus in Arabic) is considered one of the greatest prophets, but not divine.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Prophet and Messenger: In Islam, Jesus (Isa) is a revered prophet who preached monotheism and was sent to guide the Children of Israel.
    • Virgin Birth: Muslims believe in the virgin birth of Jesus, but do not see him as the Son of God.
    • Miracles: Jesus performed many miracles, such as healing the sick and raising the dead, by God’s permission.
    • Role in End Times: Muslims believe Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment to restore justice, fight the Antichrist, and establish peace.
    • Rejection of Crucifixion: Islam teaches that Jesus was not crucified but was taken up to heaven by God, with another person possibly being substituted on the cross.

2. Judaism

  • Title for Jesus: Yeshua, viewed as a historical figure but not the Messiah.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Teacher or Rabbi: In modern Jewish thought, Jesus is often seen as a teacher or reformer who lived during the Second Temple period.
    • Not the Messiah: Traditional Judaism rejects the idea that Jesus was the promised Messiah, as they believe the Messianic age has not yet come.
    • Influence on Christianity: Some Jewish scholars acknowledge that Jesus influenced Christian ethics, which were shaped by Jewish law and prophetic teachings.

3. Baha’i Faith

  • Title for Jesus: A Manifestation of God.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • One of Many Manifestations: In the Baha’i faith, Jesus is viewed as one of several divine manifestations, alongside other figures like Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Krishna, and Muhammad. Each of these figures brought a message from God appropriate to their time.
    • Fulfillment of Prophecy: Baha’is believe that Jesus’ role as a savior is real, but his message was completed by later figures, including the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh, who they see as the latest Manifestations.
    • Spiritual Teachings: Baha’is respect and honor the moral teachings of Jesus, particularly those about love and unity.

4. Hinduism

  • Title for Jesus: Some view Jesus as a saint, guru, or even an avatar.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Divine Teacher (Guru): Some Hindus view Jesus as a wise spiritual teacher or guru who embodied divine qualities like love and compassion.
    • Avatar: A minority of Hindus interpret Jesus as an avatar (incarnation) of Vishnu, similar to how Krishna or Rama are understood as divine incarnations. However, this is not a mainstream view.
    • Jesus and Karma: Certain Hindu schools compare Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice to the concept of karma and dharma, emphasizing his role in spiritual liberation.

5. Buddhism

  • Title for Jesus: Viewed as a bodhisattva or an enlightened teacher.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Bodhisattva: In some Buddhist traditions, Jesus is seen as a bodhisattva, a being who has attained enlightenment and seeks to help others reach it. This aligns with the compassionate aspect of Jesus’ teachings.
    • Moral Teacher: Buddhists admire Jesus’ ethical teachings on love, nonviolence, and self-sacrifice, which parallel many of their own values.
    • Jesus and Nirvana: Some Buddhists appreciate how Jesus lived a life focused on inner peace and helping others, which aligns with the goal of nirvana—liberation from suffering.

6. New Age Spirituality

  • Title for Jesus: An enlightened being or spiritual master.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Spiritual Teacher: In New Age beliefs, Jesus is often regarded as a spiritually enlightened master who came to show humanity how to reach higher consciousness or inner divinity.
    • Christ Consciousness: Some New Age followers adopt the concept of “Christ Consciousness,” which refers to the idea that everyone can attain a state of spiritual awakening and enlightenment similar to that which Jesus exemplified.
    • Universal Love: Jesus’ teachings about love, compassion, and peace are central themes in many New Age interpretations of his message.

7. Christian Science

  • Title for Jesus: The Savior, but with a metaphysical interpretation.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Divine Healer: Christian Science teaches that Jesus’ healing ministry demonstrates the power of divine Mind (God) over the physical world. His healings are seen as the result of understanding spiritual laws.
    • Not God Incarnate: While Jesus is highly revered in Christian Science, they distinguish between Jesus (the man) and Christ (the divine idea or Principle that he manifested). They do not believe Jesus is God incarnate in the traditional Trinitarian sense.

8. Unitarian Universalism

  • Title for Jesus: A moral teacher, not divine.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Moral Example: Unitarian Universalists (UU) regard Jesus as a great moral teacher who set an example of compassion, justice, and love.
    • Not God or Savior: UU generally rejects the traditional Christian belief in Jesus’ divinity or atoning death, but they value his ethical teachings as applicable for modern life.

9. Jehovah’s Witnesses

  • Title for Jesus: The Son of God, but distinct from God the Father.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Archangel Michael: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Jesus was the Archangel Michael in heaven before his earthly life and became the Messiah as a perfect human being.
    • Not Part of the Trinity: They reject the Trinity, believing that Jesus is a distinct and separate being from God the Father, though he is the Savior.
    • Mediator and King: Jesus plays a central role as the mediator between God and humans and will soon reign as King during God’s Kingdom on earth.

Here are some additional religions and how they incorporate Jesus:

10. Sikhism

  • Title for Jesus: A saint or holy man.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Respect for Jesus: Sikhism views Jesus as a highly respected holy man or saint who exemplified virtues such as love, truth, and humility. However, Sikhs do not see him as God or divine.
    • Unity of God: Sikhism teaches that God is one, formless, and beyond incarnation, so Jesus is seen more as an enlightened teacher whose life reflects divine qualities rather than as an incarnation of God.
    • Common Ethical Teachings: Sikh teachings about selfless service, compassion, and equality resonate with the moral teachings of Jesus.

11. Ahmadiyya Islam

  • Title for Jesus: A prophet, with an extended role in Islamic history.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Prophet and Messiah: The Ahmadiyya Muslim community believes that Jesus (Isa) was a prophet and the Messiah, but they differ from mainstream Islam in their belief about his death. They teach that Jesus survived the crucifixion, traveled east, and lived out the rest of his life in Kashmir, India.
    • Return of Jesus: Like mainstream Muslims, Ahmadis believe that Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment, but they believe he will return as a spiritual guide rather than a physical ruler.

12. Rastafarianism

  • Title for Jesus: A prophet or divine figure.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Black Messiah: In Rastafarianism, Jesus is often viewed as a black African messiah or a symbol of resistance against oppression. Some Rastafarians see him as a precursor to Haile Selassie, the Ethiopian emperor who they believe is the true messiah.
    • Spiritual Influence: Jesus is acknowledged for his teachings on love and justice, and his life is often compared to that of Haile Selassie, who they believe fulfills messianic prophecies.

13. Theosophy

  • Title for Jesus: A great spiritual teacher and Master.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • One of the Ascended Masters: In Theosophy, Jesus is considered one of the “Ascended Masters,” enlightened spiritual beings who guide humanity toward spiritual evolution.
    • Christ Principle: Theosophists believe that the “Christ Principle” is a universal spiritual force that can be manifested by different figures across time. Jesus was one who fully manifested this principle.
    • Connection to Other Religions: Theosophy views Jesus as one among many spiritual figures like Buddha, Krishna, and others who embody divine wisdom.

14. Manichaeism (Ancient Religion)

  • Title for Jesus: An important prophet of light.
  • How Jesus was Incorporated:
    • Jesus as a Prophet: In Manichaeism, an ancient religion that blended elements of Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism, Jesus was viewed as a prophet who revealed divine wisdom and light.
    • Dualistic View: Jesus was seen as a figure who represented the force of light, in a dualistic struggle between good (light) and evil (darkness).
    • Spiritual Savior: Jesus’ role was more spiritual than physical; he was a guide for liberating the soul from the material world of darkness.

15. Mormonism (Latter-day Saint Movement)

  • Title for Jesus: The Son of God, the Savior of the world.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Divine Savior: Mormons (Latter-day Saints) believe in Jesus Christ as the literal Son of God, born of Mary. He is central to their faith as the Savior who atoned for humanity’s sins through his death and resurrection.
    • Pre-Mortal Existence: They teach that Jesus existed in a pre-mortal state as the first-born spirit child of Heavenly Father, and that he played a central role in the creation of the world.
    • Appearing in the Americas: The Book of Mormon teaches that after his resurrection, Jesus appeared to the ancient peoples of the Americas and delivered his teachings to them as well.

16. Anthroposophy

  • Title for Jesus: The embodiment of the Christ Being.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Christ Being: In Anthroposophy, a spiritual movement founded by Rudolf Steiner, Jesus is seen as the physical incarnation of the cosmic Christ, an overarching spiritual being. Jesus’ role was to embody the Christ and bring spiritual transformation to humanity.
    • Spiritual Evolution: Anthroposophy teaches that Jesus’ life and resurrection initiated a new era of spiritual evolution for humanity, connecting people with higher spiritual realms.
    • Two Jesus Children: Steiner also proposed the idea of two distinct Jesus children, one associated with King Solomon’s lineage and another with Nathan’s lineage, who later unified into one individual who became Christ.

17. Gnosticism (Ancient and Modern)

  • Title for Jesus: A divine revealer of knowledge.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Revealer of Secret Knowledge (Gnosis): Gnosticism, an ancient religious movement, viewed Jesus as a divine figure who brought secret knowledge (gnosis) that could liberate the soul from the material world, which was seen as corrupt or evil.
    • Christ Spirit: Gnostics often distinguished between the human Jesus and the Christ Spirit, which descended upon Jesus at his baptism and left him before the crucifixion.
    • Salvation Through Knowledge: Salvation, according to Gnosticism, is not through faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection, but through receiving divine knowledge about the true nature of reality and the self.

18. Zoroastrianism

  • Title for Jesus: Not officially recognized, but sometimes acknowledged.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Prophet-Like Figure: While Zoroastrianism does not officially incorporate Jesus, some Zoroastrians respect Jesus as a moral teacher and compare his teachings of good versus evil to their own prophet, Zoroaster.
    • Moral Parallels: Certain Zoroastrian concepts of light versus darkness, good versus evil, and the eventual triumph of good over evil have been compared to Jesus’ teachings on the Kingdom of God.

19. Falun Gong (Falun Dafa)

  • Title for Jesus: A holy person, though not central to their teachings.
  • How Jesus is Incorporated:
    • Spiritual Figure: In Falun Gong, a modern spiritual movement, Jesus is respected as a great spiritual figure, though not central to their practice.
    • Moral Influence: Falun Gong practitioners honor many figures from various religious traditions, including Jesus, for his moral teachings and self-sacrifice.

These religions and spiritual movements further illustrate how Jesus is revered across various traditions, often in ways that differ from the traditional Christian understanding but still highlight his significance as a spiritual leader or moral example.

These show how Jesus’ legacy transcends Christianity and influences a wide range of spiritual and religious traditions, each interpreting his life and message in ways that align with their own beliefs.

MY THOUGHTS

The influence of Jesus also extends into interfaith discussions and comparative religion studies, where his life and teachings are examined alongside those of other spiritual leaders. Various religious traditions, often engage with Jesus’ teachings to explore common ethical principles and spiritual insights. This cross-religious dialogue underscores the enduring relevance of Jesus’ message and his ability to inspire and challenge diverse faith communities. By transcending the boundaries of Christianity, Jesus’ legacy continues to foster dialogue and understanding among different religious traditions.

Scripture teaches that Jesus is the exclusive path to receiving forgiveness for sins and obtaining eternal life. According to the Bible, faith in Jesus Christ is the only way to access God’s grace, enter the Kingdom of Heaven, and secure salvation. This foundational belief underscores the significance of Jesus as the mediator between humanity and God, offering redemption and eternal life through his sacrificial death and resurrection.

  1. John 14:6 (ESV): “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”
  2. Acts 4:12 (ESV): “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
  3. 1 John 5:11-12 (ESV): “And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.”

These verses collectively emphasize that Jesus is the unique and essential means for obtaining salvation and eternal life according to Christian doctrine.

CONTACT ME: [email protected]

The Depth of Christ’s Love

Rev. Cecil Thorn

The love of Christ is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith, encapsulating the essence of God’s relationship with humanity. Ephesians 3:17-19 (ESV) beautifully illustrates this profound love: “so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” This passage emphasizes that Christ’s love is immeasurable and surpasses human understanding, inviting believers to experience its transformative power deeply.

Unconditional and Sacrificial

Christ’s love is unconditional and sacrificial, epitomized by His willingness to lay down His life for humanity. Romans 5:8 (ESV) states, “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This act of selfless love demonstrates that Christ’s love is not contingent upon our actions or worthiness. Instead, it is a divine gift that offers redemption and reconciliation to all who accept it, highlighting the ultimate sacrifice He made for our salvation.

Transformative Power

The transformative power of Christ’s love is evident in the lives of those who follow Him. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV) declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” Through His love, believers are not only forgiven but also renewed, empowered to live a life that reflects His grace and mercy. This transformation is a testament to the profound impact of Christ’s love, reshaping hearts and minds to align with His divine purpose.

Love in Action

Christ’s love is not merely an abstract concept but is meant to be lived out in practical ways. John 13:34-35 (ESV) commands, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” This directive underscores the importance of expressing Christ’s love through our actions, serving others selflessly, and fostering a community that reflects His teachings. It is through these acts of love that the world can witness the reality of Christ’s love in action.

Eternal Assurance

Finally, Christ’s love offers eternal assurance and hope for believers. Romans 8:38-39 (ESV) reassures us, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This profound promise assures that Christ’s love is unwavering and eternal, providing a steadfast anchor for our faith amidst life’s uncertainties and challenges.

In conclusion, the love of Christ is a multi-faceted and profound aspect of the Christian faith, encompassing immeasurable depth, unconditional sacrifice, transformative power, practical expression, and eternal assurance. Through scriptural references, we gain a deeper understanding of how Christ’s love permeates every aspect of our lives, offering us a model to emulate and a source of unending hope.

The Power of Hope

Rev. Cecil Thorn

The Power of Hope

Introduction:

Today, I want to talk to you about the transformative power of hope. In a world that often feels overwhelmed with despair, hope shines as a beacon of light, offering solace, strength, and renewed purpose. As we dive into God’s Word, let us find encouragement and inspiration through Scripture verses that remind us of the incredible hope we have in Christ.

I. The Source of Our Hope Our hope does not stem from wishful thinking or fleeting circumstances, but from the unchanging character of our Lord and Savior. Romans 15:13(KJV) declares, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Our hope finds its foundation in God Himself, who is faithful and true.

II. Hope in the Midst of Trials Life is filled with trials and tribulations, but even in the midst of our darkest moments, we can find hope in God’s promises. Psalm 34:17-18 reminds us, “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” We can be assured that God sees our pain, and He is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28(KJV)).

III. Hope that Overcomes Fear Fear can paralyze us, hindering us from living fully for Christ. But 2 Timothy 1:7(KJV) encourages us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” When we anchor our hope in God, fear loses its grip, and we can step boldly into the purpose and plans He has for us.

IV. Hope in the Promise of Eternal Life One of the greatest sources of hope for believers is the promise of eternal life. Titus 1:2(KJV) reminds us, “In the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before the beginning of time.” As followers of Christ, we have the assurance that this life is not the end. We have an eternal home in heaven where pain, sorrow, and death will be no more (Revelation 21:4(KJV)).

V. Hope for the Future Lastly, let us hold fast to the hope we have in the future restoration of all things. Romans 8:18(KJV) assures us, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Our hope extends beyond our present circumstances, reaching towards a glorious future where God will wipe away every tear and make all things new.

Conclusion: Dear friends, as we journey through life, let us never lose sight of the incredible hope we have in Christ. It is a hope that sustains us in times of trial, emboldens us in the face of fear, and assures us of an eternal future in the presence of our Heavenly Father. May we continually anchor our hearts and minds in God’s Word, allowing it to fill us with hope and overflow into the lives of those around us. Remember the words of Jeremiah 29:11(KJV), “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Amen.

Click here to subscribe

NOTE: All comments posted will not show until approved by the moderator.

2 responses to “The Power of Hope”

  1. Lonnie Embry Avatar
    Lonnie Embry

    Well Said

  2. Pastor Jimmy and Vickie Sanders Avatar
    Pastor Jimmy and Vickie Sanders

    Man can live without food for weeks, without water for three days without air for about 8 minutes. Man can not live without hope, Jesus is the hope of this present world.

Translate »