Where Is God?

People often ask, "Where is God?" or, "Why would God allow this to happen?" There are a variety of answers for these questions, but we often do not understand the depth of a question like this. We do not perceive the colossal transformation a simple, uninformed request like "I wish God would do something," would unleash on earth and on human history were it met with a divine reply. It would be epic. A new epoch. Malachi wrote:

You have wearied the Lord with your words.

"How have we wearied him?" you ask.

By saying, . . . "Where is the God of justice?"

". . . Suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant whom you desire, will come," says the Lord Almighty.

But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears?

For he will be like a refiner's fire or a launderer's soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." (Malachi 2:17-3:2)

The world we live in is filled with evil. God knows this and God wants to change it. God longs to change it. But, understand, God is not just going to come and resolve the evil you are currently campaigning against. God is going to change human history when he comes. Do not consider God to be unconcerned, distant or none existent. Instead, consider God to be patient! Peter wrote:

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

God's wrath is currently burning against the great evils done by the vile, corrupt perverts scattered among humanity. We want action now!! But, God is also concerned about the deep rooted evil within my heart and yours. I would not consider either of us to be "vile, corrupt perverts." In fact, if I were God, I would go after the desperate sinners with the "refiners fire" mentioned by Malachi and grade the rest of us on the curve giving extra credit for effort and church attendance. But, this is not divine reality. God is holy, pure and sinless. We are closer to the vile and corrupt then we are to the holy and pure. Remember Jesus' words:

-Mass Murder: "I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment." (Matt. 5:22)
-Sexual Deviant: "I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (Matt. 5:28)

Clearly God is watching and wanting to set the world right. But, he knows that when he does make his move to fix things he will first have to deal with the sin that is in every man's heart.

So, we continue to long for God's intervention. We pray for needs, hurts and injustice in our communities and around the world knowing that God hears and that God answers prayer. But, we also must realize, as Malachi warned us, that the Lord will appear to set things right, but each of us must personally be ready for that day before it comes, because:

Suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant whom you desire, will come," says the Lord Almighty.

But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears?

Right now God is waiting patiently for you to repent. He is not unconcerned. He is patient. He does not want to destroy you when he does come to judge those sinners you are so concerned about and to fix the evil in nature you are so quick to cry out against by saying, "Where is the God of justice?"

Now you know . . . the God of justice is waiting patiently so you can be spared when he does appear . . . when he suddenly appears!

Galyn Wiemers
www.generationword.com

People Who Know Thier God Will Firmly Resist

Writing prophetically in 536 BC of events that would occur in 168 BC, Daniel writes,

"With flattery he (Antiochus Epiphanes IV) will corrupt those who have violated the covenant (Jews who followed the ways of worldly Hellenism and liberal scholarship), but the people who know their God will firmly resist him."

This was a time when the world powers of Syria and the Seleucid kings in the North plus Egypt and the Ptolemies in the South pressed Judah for taxes, political support and cultural conformity. These demands of politics and society eventually crossed a line that forced the Jews to compromise their commitment to the Lord who was their creator and savior.

Those that "know their God" found an inner strength, or commitment, to hold to the Truth. This strength resulted in action. Knowledge of God will produce an inner resolve which will lead corresponding action such as Godly decisions and deeds. Knowledge leads to understanding which produces the wisdom to act in line with the truth.

The New American Standard translation reads:

"And by smooth words he (Antiochus) will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant, but the people who know their God will
display strength and take action."

The English Standard Version reads:

"He (Antiochus) shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action."

If the Ptolemies or the Selucid kings were allowed to define God for the people then religion would have had no reason to resist politics. Or, if the people accepted the knowledge of God as taught by the liberal scholars of the day there would not have been a conflict. There would have been no display of strength, nothing to stand firm on and, most importantly, no reason to take action or to resist.

If you are not taking some kind of action, then you probably do not know God. If you are not resisting at some level, then you probably do not know God as well as you would like to think.

(The image on the coin above is that of Antiochus IV Epiphanes.)

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Online Quiz from Generation Word Facebook Page - "Jesus"

Take our first online quiz designed with the Facebook Fans of Generation Word in mind. The quiz is 10 questions about Jesus. It will be graded online. Go to the site and enter your name, then click "START NOW". If you do not want to enter your name just go to the site below and click "START NOW."

Begin Quiz Here: http://www.quia.com/quiz/2091194.html

You can also become a Facebook fan of Generation Word at our Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/generationword

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

New Generation Word Search Engine

We have set up a site search engine that will search through our site, our blogs, our online sermons and other pages with Generation Word information. It works pretty good, but we need to get it linked into more of the details. You can try it here:
http://www.generationword.com/search-engine.html

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Dr. Martin Luther German Book Cover 1918

Here is a book cover I have from 1918 with Dr. Martin Luther on it. The writing is in German and I can not make out many of the words. Click on the image for a larger image.


Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Generation Word Facebook Page

We have started a Facebook page and advertisement on Facebook for Generation Word worldwide. You can become a fan and keep up with our audio, video, notes and radio programs.
Generation Word

Promote Your Page Too
Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Another Pathetic Church

I assume many will not agree, and most will not understand my frustration and anger, but that is what makes this post necessary . . . so, man-up, or go back to your children's Christmas program . . .

(First, a note of qualification: I think children's programs, plays, musicals, etc. are very good and should be performed in churches. We had the children sing and do the hand motions to a couple of Christmas songs this morning in our church. It was cute. The children were animated and sang loud. The songs were biblical and had a message. Parents smiled and grandparents took photos. Some documented the event with video. But, then we had a message that was focused on teaching the scripture to the believer.)

I didn't think anything about it, until I called four of my sons who I had left at home to attend, what had been reported to me as, a "Bible teaching church" in Waukee. I drive 81 miles one way to get to the church I preach at. We have been doing this for over six years. Two of my boys were home from college for the holidays and a couple of them needed to be at work by noon to wait on tables. Leaving our house for my church at 9:00 AM and getting home about 3:00 PM was not an option for them this week. I told them just to skip going with me. Instead, I'd like to have them visit this new, Bible teaching church in Waukee. I had heard good things about it from a couple of pastors involved with the church. So, the four of them willingly agreed to go. (Yes, really, they don't mind attending church and learning the word of God).

Now, at my church this morning we had a brief time after the announcements for the children to sing a couple of songs. There were a few extra people that came to hear their children sing. I know that is why these adults came, because when the children were finished singing the adults of some of the children (parents, grandparents, guardians, or whoever) just stood up and left. I have no problem with that. It shows integrity on their part. It shows they are not intimidated by social standards and are not going to feel guilty about walking out of a church service. It's the American way. Freedom! It did not bother me that they left before I spoke. Not at all. I would have bored them and made them emotionally, morally and physically (since, I spoke for about an hour) uncomfortable. I do not mind. I do that four times a week.

At the same time this was going on, my boys found themselves in Waukee in an advertised "Bible Teaching Church" sitting through over an hour long children's program with no Bible teaching. When I heard this I was ticked (meaning in the English "greatly upset" or "to the point of anger," also "mad" or "peeved"). I already consider most churches in the USA as worthless, a waste of spiritual energy and, often, deceitful to the point that we need Wycliffe, Zwingli, Calvin and Luther for another Reformation. I do not understand how a pastor could allow the Sunday morning service with the second largest attendance of the year be dedicated to the worship of little children singing and people doing skits. In my mind it is wrong. It is corrupt. It borders on idolatry. It makes me want to vomit when I hear this. But, what really irks me the most is that I sent four of my boys (ages 14, 17, 19 and 21) to visit this church because I had heard, that compared to the other churches, this one was a "Bible teaching church." Next week I am going to send them all back to this church again and ask for a report concerning the teaching of the word. My guess is that, at best, this church is going to be a church that flashes a verse on the big screen, tells a couple of storys, and then makes some pseudo-application to the Christian life.

Well, anyway, Merry Christmas. If you hurry you can still catch a Sunday evening Christmas program . . .

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Generation Word Apparel & Stuff with Our Logo

Click HERE to see our selection of "stuff" with our logo, slogan, or book covers. These items include t-shirts, hats, mouse pads, mugs and all the typical promotional items people use to promote their projects, businesses, causes, or, in this case, their Bible teaching ministry. I should say here that these items make great Christmas presents, but I really can't imagine that being true, since I don't know anyone who would want a hat or a sticker with the Generation Logo on it for Christmas! But, seriously, you might want to request one of our FREE books: "Framework for Christian Faith" and "Hope for America's Last Generation." If youwant a copy of a book send me a shipping address to gw@generationword.com. If you want a magnet with our logo or the image of the book cover on it then go to this provided link and pay for it at our online store.

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Today's Email Concerning "Framework" Textbook

We have sent over 20,000 audio CDs of sermons into Africa and 100's of Bibles and books (Hope for America's Last Generation and Framework for Christian Faith). This summer we made contact with a person in Maryland who frequently ships 20 foot containers to Rev. Clement Owusu Sarpong and his Word Alive Revival Church in Accra, Ghana filled with supplies, Bibles, etc. It was costing us over $20 to mail one "Framework" book into Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, etc. We can now ship a box of twenty books to Maryland at media mail rate of about $18. That figures out to be less than a dollar a book for shipping to Maryland. From Maryland the box of books is put in the container and the container is put on a freight ship. The delivery time is about 4-6 months, but the savings is worth it. Rev. Clement Sarpong has just emailed us letting us know he has received the books. He sent a list of the names of the people to whom he distributed the "Framework" textbook. Today we have also began to receive thank you emails from those who received our books. Below are a couple of today's emails. The first is from Rev. Sarpong:

We have taken delivery of the 20 FRAMEWORK Books. Thank you and God Bless you. We have distributed them to some needy Pastors and some Bible Schools in Ghana.

The recipients are:
1. Word Alive Bible Institute - 2 copies
2. Visions Ministerial Academy - 2 copies
3. Alive Evangel Bible Institute - 2 copies
4. Gospel Light Bible Institute - 2 copies
5. Liberty Outreach Ministries of Pokuase - 2 copies
6. International Trinity Christian College - 2 copies
7. Bible Way School of Ministry - 2 copies
1 copy each to:
- Rev. Johnson Adamu of Rural Outreach Ministries;
- Pastor Listowell Appiah of Faith Foundation Ministries;
- Rev Gare Atimpane a Deliverance Minister in the Muslim North of Ghana
- The Youth Ministry of Central University College.

The last 2 copies are left in the Library of Word Alive Revival Church
We told all the recipients to send a 'Thank You' note to. God bless you for the donation. God bless Mrs. Akyea for shipping the books to us freely and God bless Word Alive Revival Church for sponsoring the Customs clearance and Free distributions.

Sir, We pray that we can use this great opportunity of Mrs. Akyea's help to assist the needy, not only in Ghana, but in the West African sub region.

She is prepared to ship up to a 20ft Container of Bibles and/or any ministry tool from the USA to us.

She has visited us in Ghana and can testify of the great work we are doing for the Lord. We are therefore asking you for at least 300 copies of the Framework books through her.

A thank you email from one of the recipients:

Thank you for the great book you sent to us through Rev Clement. We are students of Central University College ministering to the needy and organizing Christian Fellowships. Our only regret is that the one book is not enough for us and plead for about 10 copies. We know that in the very near future your book will become an official Text Book in our University which is a christian institution.

Yours Truly,
The President of The Youth Ministry

And, one more email from today. This one is from Nigeria:

I have gained access to your book'FRAMEWORK', I have seen the great work you have done to simplified the the bible. Sir, as a student of theology, I found the book important to me. I am using this medium to seek for your help by sending me a copy of the framework and all other materials you can let out for a pastor in tranning. I pray that God will continue to widen your your horizon. I will be glad to seing from you soon.

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Galyn Video Tapes an Off-Road Race While He Runs It

This is a video of Galyn and four of his sons running a 7.5 mile off road cross country race over muddy fields, creeks and hills. Galyn finished the course in 63 minutes.


Here is a video of the same race with the highlights and post race activities with Team Wiemers:



Zac, Jacob, Galyn, Hawkeye, Benjamin

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Triangulation Education Model

I am currently in the process of identifying and structuring the triangulation model of education. Key words and concepts are:

1. Teach (done by teacher)
2. Learn (done by student)
3. Potential (set by limits of realty)

(I will call it the TLP Triangulation Education Model. It can be referred to as TLP-TEM in professional journals. Now, if I can just find that perfect balance of complicating the obvious and over emphasizing the tangents then TLP-TEM might just sweep through the educational world. Wait, I need to get a job at a university and find some research money . . .)

Here is my article:

Any learning environment has unexplored growth potential that is never fully activated, but at the same time it is confined by the student's shadowy limitations set by reality. The three corners of the learning triangle are all powerful contributors to the extent of the educational process. They are:

• teacher and the instructional process,
  
• the student and their freewill (desire, motivation, interest, etc.), and
  
• the natural biological and psychological ability of the student.

To ignore this triangular alignment (or, one of it's corners) is to entertain a vain educational view that strains the other corners beyond the point of logical expectations. For examples:

1. To ignore the importance of the instructional quality will eventually flatten out the student's corner and demand the student do the illogical and teach themselves.
2. To ignore the importance of the student's responsibility will eventually bring pressure on the teacher's corner which burdens it with an endless series of demands, expectations, strategies and staff inservices that can never replace the student's need to care about their own education.
   
3. To ignore the natural ability of the student means the student and teacher will be thrust into an imaginary world that, in theory (and, before qualifying statements are unleashed), claims that all students can learn everything.
   

In the correctly balanced model all three corners must be acknowledged and responsibility assigned and expected. An equilateral triangle must be maintained. Foolish educational theories laced with post-modern values will not only be frustrating for the student, the teacher, the school and the community, but they will prove to be educationally fatal.

Each of the corners has ability to improve its contribution to the educational process. Teacher's can always improve. Always. They can find new strategies, become more acquainted with their subject matter, use different mediums to communicate, bring alongside themselves specialist in techniques or knowledge, ect. Students can find motivation or desire by realizing the importance of education, the satisfaction of education, or simply, the expectation of education. Although, potential, in this theory is a set variable, the opportunity of expansion (therapy, interaction, etc.) up to that set variable from the current available potential is possible.

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

Hanegraff's Hermenutics

The list below is taken from Norman Geisler's Article HERE.

Hank Hanegraff, and other amillennialist, can allegorize away the literal truth of Scripture. The examples Geisler lists are:.

• The plain meaning of the Bible into a so-called “deeper” meaning
• Literal promises into spiritual ones
• Unconditional promises into conditional ones
• Jewish tribes into Gentiles
• A thousand years into eternity
• A literal resurrection into a spiritual one
• Land Promises for National Israel into spiritual life in Christ
• A literal mark of the Beast into a mere symbol of identity with him
• Physical clouds into mere symbols of judgment
• A literal earthly throne of David into a heavenly reign of Christ
• Two literal witnesses into literary representatives of the Law and Prophets
• Cosmic judgment into the destruction of a small city (Jerusalem)

Geisler writes:

All of this Hank is fond of calling “Reading the Bible for all it is worth.” Well, for all it is worth, this is not reading the Bible; it is a serious misreading of the Bible. So serious a misreading it is that were it a reading on an essential doctrine of the Bible – like the virgin birth, the sacrificial atonement, the bodily resurrection, or the second coming–it would be a rank heresy!

I do not desire to attack amillennialism or postmillennialism (I disagree with their interpretation, but not their love of God and pursuit of the truth), but I certainly want to defend historical premillennialism, and even more, dispensational premillennialism. I want believers to have a chance to analyze the scriptures and consider the Bible from a dispensational premillennial position with out having to academically succumb to the label "heretic" as is applied to them by Reformers, Covenantalist (Supersessionists), or their younger counterparts found among the Evangelicals and Emergers.

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com/

CS Lewis Comments on Theology

On our way to and from school each day (total of 50-60 minutes) Jacob and I have been listening to the writings of CS Lewis. We reached chapter 23 of "Mere Christianity" today on the way to school. I have read this book many years ago and listened to it a few years ago. But, it is always amazing to hear Lewis apologize for being a layman, and then, in the next breath make profound statements using simple illustrations and language that cause me to hear things again for the first time. It is as if I know everything he is going to say, but yet, at the same time, know nothing at all. Each time I hear him everything is new information.

Today Lewis introduced the topic of theology. What he said is quoted below:
(From: BOOK FOUR: BEYOND PERSONALITY : or FIRST STEPS IN THE DOCTRINE OF THE TRINITY
CHAPTER 23--MAKING AND BEGETTING)

Everyone has warned me not to tell you what I am going to tell you in this last book. They all say `the ordinary reader does not want Theology; give him plain practical religion'. I have rejected their advice. I do not think the ordinary reader is such a fool. Theology means 'the science of God,' and I think any man who wants to think about God at all would like to have the clearest and most accurate ideas about Him which are available. You are not children: why should you be treated like children?

In a way I quite understand why some people are put off by Theology. I remember once when I had been giving a talk to the R.A.F., an old, hard-bitten officer got up and said, `I've no use for all that stuff. But, mind you, I'm a religious man too. I know there's a God. I've felt Him out alone in the desert at night: the tremendous mystery. And that's just why I don't believe all your neat little dogmas and formulas about Him. To anyone who's met the real thing they all seem so petty and pedantic and unreal !'

Now in a sense I quite agreed with that man. I think he had probably had a real experience of God in the desert. And when he turned from that experience to the Christian creeds, I think he really was turning from something real to something less real. In the same way, if a man has once looked at the Atlantic from the beach, and then goes and looks at a map of the Atlantic, he also will be turning from something real to something less real: turning from real waves to a bit of coloured paper. But here comes the point. The map is admittedly only coloured paper, but there are two things you have to remember about it. In the first place, it is based on what hundreds and thousands of people have found out by sailing the real Atlantic. In that way it has behind it masses of experience just as real as the one you could have from the beach; only, while yours would be a single glimpse, the map fits all those different experiences together. In the second place, if you want to go anywhere, the map is absolutely necessary. As long as you are content with walks on the beach, your own glimpses are far more fun than looking at a map. But the map is going to be more use than walks on the beach if you want to get to America.

Now, Theology is like the map. Merely learning and thinking about the Christian doctrines, if you stop there, is less real and less exciting than the sort of thing my friend got in the desert. Doctrines are not God: they are only a kind of map. But that map is based on the experience of hundreds of people who really were in touch with God-experiences compared with which any thrills or pious feelings you and I are likely to get on our own are very elementary and very confused. And secondly, if you want to get any further, you must use the map. You see, what happened to that man in the desert may have been real, and was certainly exciting, but nothing comes of it. It leads nowhere. There is nothing to do about it. In fact, that is just why a vague religion-all about feeling God in nature, and so on-is so attractive. It is all thrills and no work; like watching the waves from the beach. But you will not get to Newfoundland by studying the Atlantic that way, and you will not get eternal life by simply feeling the presence of God in flowers or music. Neither will you get anywhere by looking at maps without going to sea. Nor will you be very safe if you go to sea without a map.

In other words, Theology is practical: especially now. In the old days, when there was less education and discussion, perhaps it was possible to get on with a very few simple ideas about God. But it is not so now. Everyone reads, everyone hears things discussed. Consequently, if you do not listen to Theology, that will not mean that you have no ideas about God. It will mean that you have a lot of wrong ones - bad, muddled, out-of-date ideas. For a great many of the ideas about God which are trotted out as novelties to-day are simply the ones which real Theologians tried centuries ago and rejected. To believe in the popular religion of modern England is retrogression - like believing the earth is flat.

Thank you C.S. Lewis.

(Read the whole text here. Read all of "Mere Christianity" from 1941-1944 by C.S Lewis here.)

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Geroge Barna on Remnants

The question and answer below was taken from an interview with George Barna concerning his 2009 book "The Seven Faith Tribes":

Question for Geroge Barna: With the Casual and Captive Christian tribes cumulatively reflecting more than 80% of the adult population, do non-Christian tribes have any real hope of influencing the nation if those two tribes concur on a matter?

Barna: One of the beauties of living in a democratic republic is that everyone has a chance to influence the development of the nation. A group that is small in numbers but has big ideas and internal unity can have amazing success at shaping the will of the public. We have repeatedly experienced this in recent decades. The sexual revolution of the sixties was driven by a minority. The establishment of equal rights for blacks was accomplished by a tiny minority. The movement toward gay rights is being driven by a segment that is just 3% of the population. The urgency and intensity required to introduce seminal change is often accessible only to tightly-knit, manageable, finely focused bands of vision-driven comrades – what the Bible refers to as a remnant.

Galyn' comment:It is ridiculous that the Christian's have let themselves fall away from God. As a result the nation has lost direction. My generation inherited a Christian culture that was more than 80% Christian. If American history were divided into four quarters and compared to a basketball game, then we are the players on the floor for the fourth quarter. We took the floor in a blow out game ahead 90-10 with 8 minutes to go. In a matter of moments we have managed to blow an 80 point lead. Point: We are emotionally and intellectually (but, not numerically) the remnant now. But, historically smaller remnants than us have turned the tide for the nation. We can make a difference: 1) if we care, 2) if we are not driven by selfishness, 3) if we educate ourselves in areas such as history, worldviews, culture, constitutional government, etc. and our specific areas of influence. The Truth will set you free.

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Blame Pastors and Parents, Not Schools and Sitcoms

Pastors and parents often try to blame the government and public schools for the cultural decline of our American society. They also throw sitcoms and Hollywood into the boiling cauldron of responsibility. But, the truth of the matter is our children have been lost long before sitcoms, schools and socialism got a hold of them.

Only 19% of a group who call themselves born again have a Christian worldview? (See Barna Research) If pastors were actually teaching the Bible maybe people would believe in absolute truth, a creator, biblical principles of society, sin, the sin nature of man and the existence of evil. Read this except from Barna's report and maybe you can see how far gone we are as a society. If you do not understand this ask your pastor to explain it. He will not be able to and, most likely, will disagree with it, which is why you can kiss your way of life as you know it good-bye!

The research data showed that one pattern emerged loud and clear: young adults rarely possess a biblical worldview. The current study found that less than one-half of one percent of adults in the Mosaic generation – i.e., those aged 18 to 23 – have a biblical worldview, compared to about one out of every nine older adults.

0.5% of people ages 18-23 believe in absolute truth, a creator, sin nature, the existence of evil, marriage, family, etc. Now, the argument would be that they once did before they graduated from our public schools, went to our morally corrupt universities and started seeing Hollywood movies. But, you do not have the numbers to support this. These kids are lost before their parents are done with them.

Research shows that 89% of Christian children do not have a Christian worldview when they leave their Christian home for college. But, don't blame the public schools because 40% of children from Christian homes do not have a Christian worldview when the leave elementary school. This means that the secular universities only have to tear down a Christian worldview in 11% of their students because "christian" parents in their "christian" homes have already trashed 89% of the "christian" children.

The failure of our society is the result of incompetent pastors and irresponsible parents. Pastors and parents provide the loudest voices of complaint as they daily lay the blame at the door of the school, the ticket box of Hollywood and legislative hall of a representative government. Experience and research indicates that these numbers are instead the result of the failure of pastors and parents.

Fix the pulpit and the parent and you will fix society.

A corrupt pulpit and a compromised parent will end a Christian culture.

The pulpits and the parents will blame the public school, television and government, but what else would you expect from irresponsible people with no Christian perspective.

More Barna Research

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Justin Anchors the Marine Iwakuni, Japan Update

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Justin and Marine News Station

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Justin Wiemers, US Marine Reporter

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Iowa Christian Alliance

I have given up on the Republican Party ever being able to represent Christian values and Constitutional principles. At the national level I figure that is probably still true. But, last night at the Iowa Christian Alliance meeting I heard bold testimony, powerful conviction and strong words concerning biblical values and Constitutional integrity. Ralph Reed and David Barton both spoke of American Exceptionalism that comes from America's original commitment to living and governing according to God's natural and revealed laws. There were good presentations from candidates running for governor. I know at my level, or the grass roots level, here in Iowa people are tired of "change" and want a restoration to Constitutional government and a revival to biblical standards. Maybe we can begin to restore some Truth into a political party that I had given up for spiritually dead.

Senator Grassley spoke of his personal faith in Jesus Christ and mentioned how difficult it was in the Washington DC area for the Christian faith to be taken serious. Ralph Reed clearly presented the case that the principles of Christianity are the pillars of our society. David Barton applied the founding father's words and the Constitution to Iowa's issues of marriage and abortion.

We, the people, need to know the truth and let our leaders know that we expect nothing but adherence to the truth 100% of the time. We agree with what Steve Deace has been sending out every afternoon on WHO: it is time to reject the 80-20 principle. Accepting a little bit of evil instead of a lot of evil is still not goodness. It is similar to calling a little bit of darkness light because it could be darker. Darkness is still dark no matter how much darker it could be and evil is still evil no matter how much more evil it could be.

I shook hands with Senator Grassley and do appreciate him commenting on my book "Framework for Christian Faith" and allowing me to put his name on the back cover.

Revival of our politics begins in Iowa. We are witnessing historical and biblical movements in our society and in our world. Know the truth and be ready!

View David Barton website http://www.wallbuilders.com/




Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Visit Iowa Christian Alliance

Foul Language vs. Strong Language

In our Ephesians study on Tuesday nights we came across this verse last week:

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths." (4:29)

As we read on we are encouraged to build others up by giving them helpful words that will be a benefit.



A few verses later Paul writes:

"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place." (5:4)

Destructive, obscene, vulgar, slanderous and contemptuous speech is forbidden because it is not the nature of God, and thus, not the nature of the people recreated in his image.

But, no where are we forbidden to use "strong language". The apostles, Jesus and the Word of God itself use strong language. Our challenge, if we are to follow suit, is to know what we are talking about and what we are saying. The power of strong language is the Truth that it communicates. Language is not "strong" just because it is loud, or shocking, or makes people feel uncomfortable. Strong language contains and communicates Truth. Indeed, in our culture it may need to be loud and it will most likely shock the hearers and make them uncomfortable. Remember, just because language is shocking and uncomfortable doesn't mean it is unwholesome, obscene, vulgar or inappropriate.

Speak the Truth with Wisdom!

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Truth (from "Defending the Faith" series)

What makes me worthy to identify the Truth and expose the lie?

It is not my own righteousness, but the simple fact that the Truth exists. This portion of the debate is not about my character, but about the existence of Truth. My character (at this point of the argument) has nothing to do with identifying Truth.

Both, those who say there IS a standard of Truth and righteousness and those who say there IS NO standard of Truth and righteousness, find themselves sinning and doing wrong. The difference is that the first group has a standard to compare themselves to, but the second group really can not say they are sinners. They can not even say the first group is wrong since in their own philosophy they claim there are no standards. Thus, only the first group (those who hold to an absolute standard of Truth and righteousness) are logical.

Watch Video HERE (RealPlayer)

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Response to the Church's Role in America

Here is an email question I received. The answer is below:

Galyn, Here is a one response I received from a man that I have been debating with over the role of the church in this nation. I have heard this in the past from other Christians and feel that this may be a common attitude in the Evangelical church today. What would you say to this man?

"The Church is not about America. The Church is not about changing a nation or culture. Its about saving souls individually and standing as the pillar and support of the truth! It is delusional to think that God is going to change this country when SCRIPTURE clearly says the world, including America, is going to continue to get worse. The Church is simply following suit. We need to make sure we are thinking theocentrically instead of anthropocentrically. Otherwise we do get the majority of the church that has embraced a nonbiblical worldview and is biblically illiterate. Thus Christ asked if He would even find faith on the earth when He returns."

Here is my response:

I would agree with him, but you don't have to choose between being a godly American and being a godly Christian. He sounds like he wants to be Reformed as in Calvinist, but has too much Evangelicalism, or too little Scripture. Its like saying that because you have two sons you can't love them both. Can't a man have several children and love them all? Do you have to chose? How can he be truly theocentric for more than ten minutes without becoming anthropocentric? (as in "For God so loved the world . . .") The two greatest commandments: 1) Love God, 2) Love your neighbor. The prophets of the old testament were clearly focused on saving the nation of Israel and the nation of Judah, while at the same time advancing the revelation of the kingdom of God. (Of course, if a person is Reformed they don't consider natural Israel, but spiritualize it, so this point would make no sense to them.) In the Epistles there is talk of the spiritual kingdom and our position in Christ, but in the second half of most of the letters the writer begins to talk about how these spiritual truths will effect our walk, our families, our communities and our societies. I would agree that the world ends in darkness but when this man writes "it is delusional to think that God is going to change this country" the Calvinistic tone switches to sound like a rapture ready Tim LaHaye fan. The Bible teaches clearly that "Righteousness exalts a nation." (Proverbs 14:34) Indeed, I do agree that the church must be theocentric first (as in the Greatest Commandment of Jesus). Many churches today are unscriptural. Those who try to please man are unbiblical, ungodly, and are not helping preserve the United States. If churches were to embrace truth, seek their God and live righteous lives they would see a change in this county. To disagree with this statement is ludicrous and delusional. Are we going to see churches turn to truth and seek God in our culture? Probably not, but when I was coaching and losing by 20 points in the fourth quarter I still expected my players to execute the offense and play aggressive defense until the buzzer sounded, or in this case, the trumpet was blown. Jeremiah continued to proclaim his message and encourage social change until Nebuzaraden, commander of Nebuchadnezzar's imperial guard, lit the fire (Jeremiah 52:12-13). This man is apparently upset that his church isn't growing while churches with great programs have full parking lots. Many people like to nurse their failure to engage their community by taking this illusional "high road" of "loving God" and not "bowing to humanism" to explain their lack of productivity. It sounds good until they read the parable of the sower, and other examples from the Bible, that expect God's people to be productive and not blame all their failures on other people's sin nature. I agree with half of what he says, but think he is probably mad about something else.

One more point: What's up with this statement that he makes - "SCRIPTURE clearly says the world, including America, is going to continue to get worse." - America clearly got, not only better, but came into existence 1600 years after "SCRIPTURE" was written? So, the world, including America, did get better! Why? Because of the church and a nation embracing God's natural and special revelations. It is a principle attested to in the Scriptures from Genesis through Revelation. The church did make the world better and Jesus indicated it would. It could happen again. I do think we are at the end of the age, but, again, the Bible warns us not to give up until the game is over. I'll follow Scripture. Maybe he wants to follow "some prophecy, report or letter . . . saying that the day of the Lord has already come. Dont' let anyone deceive you in any way . . . the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed." We are close, but we aren't there yet. That is why there is still "Hope for America's Last Generation." (available in a bookstore near you, but only if you live in Des Moines, Iowa.)

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Government Schools

The failure primarily is not in the schools but in the homes and in the churches. The schools can not undue the solid foundation if it has been set in place. The gov't schools provided my senior son a classic example of reinforcing my teaching when a teacher took him out in the hallway last year and chewed him out for writing on his psychology paper that he would not want his son to be gay. Hawkeye was threatened with being sent to the office for a hate crime!! After listening to me as a father and a pastor warn of this kind of perversion, propaganda and persecution he came home with first hand experience that strengthened his own personal resolve to fight the good fight of faith and continue to proclaim the truth to his generation. . . . Don't even ask me how completely worthless most youth groups are . . .

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Christians Get Focused! Spare the Drama!!

As the northern kingdom of Israel stumbled through their 210 year history which ultimately ended in the Assyrian dispersion in 721 BC, their kings were continually recorded as never having repented of the sin of Jeroboam, the very first king of Israel in the north. This sin included Jeroboam's re-writing Israel's history, introducing new gods and establishing a new philosophy to live by. With out the road map of history Israel could never return to where they had derailed from God's plan. Thus, they could never really identify their sin and repent. History, that is correctly recorded and taught, is the truth that is necessary for a nation to judge itself by. Incorrect history is not truth. Re-written history is a lie and will lead to wrong conclusions.

Some modern errors in the church need to be identified with a little more precision. I am thinking about churches and Christians, including my church and myself, who are quick to point out the sin of homosexuality, the blaspheme of public schools as they forbid prayer while claiming to be non-religious and the failure of our government to honor the constitution while American citizen's race into social error, ignorant of American history and world history. But, these are not the heaviest pivotal points for our society!

How can churches blame homosexuality when adultery and divorce are what actually destroy marriage, families and children? How can churches accuse public schools of not praying when we do not hear prayers of repentance and intercession from the church itself? How can the church accuse politicians of forsaking the Constitution and bemoan the ignorance of public knowledge of our history when the vast majority of churches have forsaken the Scripture and the average Christian's knowledge of the Bible is so pathetic that they would fail an entrance exam into a fifth grade Sunday school class, let alone a college entrance exam.

We, the church, have "redefined" marriage and are destroying children, the next generation!
We, the church, are the one's who refuse to pray, even when we are allowed to pray!
We, the church, are forsaking the Bible and are ignorant of its contents.

Indeed, homosexuality is a sin against God, against man and against natural law. Public schools do oppress Christianity, our Constitution is forsaken and the public is ignorant. But, don't you think it is time for the church to take the beam out of its own eye before they attempt to surgically eradicate evil in human society?

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Do Not Fear Truth

This is my response to a good blog by Shane Vander Hart.

I agree there is a problem with the evangelical mind of today that is somehow connected back to the revivalism of the 1800’s. This revivalism and the “disestablishment” that followed would be the obvious result of the Reformation. The Reformation was good. The Revivals of the 1800’s were good. Also, the Fundamental movement of the 1920’s was good. Heck, I even enjoyed the Jesus Movement and the Charismatic movement in the ’60’s and ’70’s. Who would complain about the Great Awakening that we saw in the 1700’s? The problem with the Revivalism was not the movement but man’s nature. Free enterprise is good even when dealing with the truth. I mean, start a church, preach the truth and those with ears to hear will come. But, man’s nature (as in preachers and church people) doesn’t want to deal with the failure of being rejected by those without ears to hear. Fear of failure leads to compromise and is followed by the establishment of some form of institutionalism to defend against further challenges and growth. Thus, as foreseen in your quote above, “pragmatic concerns would prevail over principle” (simply put, “fear stifles truth”). For me it is as simple as “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct , rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine.” To be truly successful in ministry we must follow the principle of the cross before the crown even in the midst of potential church growth and revivals. In other words, you can not be afraid of failure and rejection which must occur when teaching the Word of God and the orthodox theology found in scripture. Jesus and Paul promised that if you teach truth you would be met with rejection and failure, but credited with being faithful. I believe when enough people reject institutionalized evangelicalism and once again seek the truth as found in the Scriptures they will themselves experience reformation, great awakening, revivalism, and what is more, they will find THE TRUTH DOES WORK. Put truth first, and functionality follows. (I enjoy your blogs.)

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

White House Collects Disinformation Sources?

What is this? The White House website is asking citizen's to report other citizen's who are spreading "disinformation"? What are they going to do with all the news papers and TV news stations that get reported? Here is a quote from the web page:

There is a lot of disinformation about health insurance reform out there, spanning from control of personal finances to end of life care. These rumors often travel just below the surface via chain emails or through casual conversation. Since we can’t keep track of all of them here at the White House, we’re asking for your help. If you get an email or see something on the web about health insurance reform that seems fishy, send it to flag@whitehouse.gov.

Isn't disinformation based on what you think is true information? I think atheist teach disinformation. Atheist think I teach disinformation. Can you see that this can only lead to a huge change in our culture? We are finding out that those who teach us tolerance really mean accept and submit. This is why you have to practice true tolerance (respecting others with different opinions) but always debate the definition when someone uses it.

Read the White House page HERE and watch the crazy little video they provide. How dumb do they think we are?

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Excavation on Western Wall Plaza

Excavation just to the west of the Western Wall in Jerusalem began in 2007, soon after we left Israel after having taken classes at the Jerusalem University on Mount Zion. Some of the finds include:

• a portion of the lower aqueduct which brought water from Solomon's Pools to the Temple Mount during the days of Herod.
• another mikva (ritual bath) from the time of the Second Temple (built by Herod)
• a colonnaded street which most is most likely the eastern connection to the Cardo, a Byzantine main street
  
• a covered stoa
• a row of shops

In the photos below (found at bibleplaces.com blog and the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs) we can see an ariel view of the Old City of Jerusalem showing the location, a view of the Western Wall Plaza looking east, and some of the details of the excavation.




The above photo is marked by the yellow box in the view in the top photo. I remember arriving in Jerusalem late one night in June of 2007. Toni, Ryan and myself left our things in our rooms and headed out into the streets of the Old City of Jerusalem around 10:30 pm. We walked through the winding stone streets and quickly arrived at the stairway leading down to this Western Wall Plaza. It was a stunning view lit up and still active at 11:00 at night. I remember standing there taking in this amazing view of the ancient Temple Mount's western wall which was surrounded with the sounds and motions of the modern worshipers and pilgrims. Today this view is interrupted by the excavation as seen in the photo above. If we were take this same view today we would be looking over the green walk way across the lower part of the photo and over the excavation to view the Western Wall.


This photo is of the Byzantine Cardo located in the red box above.

The excavations are being conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authorities at the request of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation who are planning on building the Western Wall Heritage Center here once the excavations are completed.

View live cam of the Western Wall Plaza here

Galyn in front of the Herodian blocks of the Western Wall

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Calvin Was Not a TULIP Calvinist

The fact that John Calvin did not believe or teach "Limited Atonement" is well known among certain people. But, among others, there is, like always, great confusion. (The "L" of TULIP which is taught by Calvinist and the Reformed crowd stands for "Limited Atonement". This false doctrine believes that Jesus only died for those who would be saved, not the whole world.) On the issue of "Limited" vs. "Unlimited" atonement the Calvinist and the Reformed theologians may be dismayed to see John C. and me standing in the same corner of this debate. (We quickly part ways, though, on the issue of election, human will, Israel, and eschatology.)

Here some statements made by Calvin in his writings, commentaries or theological works that clearly indicated that he believed that Jesus' death on the cross paid for all the sins of the world, for all the sins of mankind including those who will suffer eternal damnation. This is called unlimited atonement and forces the Reformed followers of Calvin to abandon TULIP and instead consider TUUIP. I myself would be a TRURP (Total depravity, reject election, unlimited atonement, resistible grace and perseverance of the saints.)

Here is what John Calvin said in favor of unlimited atonement for the whole world and against limited atonement:

From Calvin's Commentary on Isaiah, page 131, Isaiah 53:12,

Yet I approve of the ordinary reading, that he alone bore the punishment of many, because on him was laid the guilt of the whole world. It is evident from other passages, and especially from the fifth chapter of the Epistle to the Romans, that 'many' sometimes denotes 'all.'

From Calvin's Commentary on the Gospel According to John, page 64, John 1:29,

When he says, the sin of the world, he extends this favor indiscriminately to the whole human race.

From Calvin's Commentary on the Gospel According to John, page 50, John 12:46,

The term whosoever, appears to have been added on purpose, partly, that all believers, without exception, may enjoy this benefit incommon, and partly, to show that the reason why unbelievers perish in darkness is, that, of their own accord, they forsake the light.

From Calvin's Commentaries on the Epistle to the Romans, page 211, Romans 5:18,

He makes this favor common to all, because it is propounded (note: this means - 'to put forward or offer for consideration or acceptance') to all, and not because it is in reality extended to all; for though Christ suffered for the sins of the whole world, and is offered through God's benignity indiscriminately to all, yet all do not receive him.

From Calvin's Commentary to the Hebrews, page 125, Hebrews 5:11,

The Apostle means that its benefit shall come to none but to those who obey. But by saying this he recommends faith to us; for he becomes not ours, nor his blessings, except as far as we receive them and him by faith. He seems at the same time to have adopted a universal term, all, for this end, that he might show that no one is precluded from salvation who is but teachable and becomes obedient to the Gospel of Christ.

From Calvin's Commentary to the Hebrews, page 220, Hebrews 9:28,

To bear, or, take away sins, is to free from guilt by his satisfaction those who have sinned. He says the sins of many, that is, of all, as in Romans 5:15. It is yet certain that all receive no benefit from the death of Christ; but this happens because their unbelief prevents them.

From Calvin's Institutes,

The first thing to be attended to is, that so long as we are without Christ and separated from him, nothing which he suffered and did for the salvation of the human race is of the least benefit to us (3.1.1)

. . . God, who will have all men to be saved. By this he assuredly means nothing more than that the way of salvation was not shut against any order of men; that, on the contrary, he had manifested his mercy in such a way, that he would have none debarred from it. (3.24.26)

I agree with Calvin, but against Reformers, that Christ did die for the sins of every man in the entire world. I do believe in perseverance (once saved, always saved) because the work of salvation is the work of God and can not be reversed. I agree with total depravity, except I believe man still has a will to accept the offer of salvation when illuminated by the ministry of the Holy Spirit. I reject irresistible grace because I do believe man can reject the ministry of the Holy Spirit. I reject the concept that God elected only some people for salvation based solely on His choice and not on His foreknowledge. So, I am not a Calvinist, but really, neither was Calvin.

Next, I want to discuss the early Augustine position vs. the later Augustine position which changed from his earlier writings because of his debate with Pelagius and the Donatist. Even Augustine, who the Reformers also claim, contradicts TULIP. It is going to be easier to call TULIP a false teaching than it will be to call me a false teacher.

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com

Prayer: Why Do We Need To Pray?

People often ask . . .

"Why do we pray?"
"If God knew how my life would turn out before
I was born, why should I pray?"
"Will it change the outcome?"
"Is praying a step of obedience?"

The following verses can make a person wonder this very thing: "Why pray?"

• Matthew 6:32-34, "For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
• Matthew 6:8, "Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
• Isaiah 65:24, "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear."
• Luke 1:13, After maybe as long as forty years of prayer for a son to be born Zechariah hears the angel tell him, "Zechariah, your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son. . . "

Some people answer the question, "Why pray?", by simply saying we should be obedient. But, praying just to be obedient is a very weak and a non-motivating answer. At least, for me it is not a satisfactory answer. But, of course, that is why a lot of Christians do a lot of things, such as, go to church, read their Bibles, get baptized, etc. They have no idea what they are doing or why it is important. They just know we are supposed to do it. The Christian life is much more than just being obedient. There is a game plan and God wants you to understand "Why" we do things.

Human Will and Responsibility

• God originally created man to rule and to have authority (Genesis 1:26)
• Man is not an animal, he was created in God's image and was God's representative on the earth.
• Man was given free will, told what was right or wrong, and told of the consequences for his actions. (Genesis 2:16)
• When Adam sinned it effected him, his world and all of mankind (Romans 5:12)
• The Exodus Generation, for example, was given a promise, but chose not to follow God's plan. They did not want what God wanted. (Deut. 1:26)
• The second generation after the Exodus had the choice of blessing and cursing set before them. They could chose which one they wanted. (Deut. 11:26)
• They were also told to chose between life and death. (Deut. 30:19)
• Man is unique, then, because he can make decisions that effect his sphere of operation or his realm of authority.
  

God's Ultimate Sovereignty and Man's Responsibility/Authority

• Imagine God's Absolute authority (sovereignty) being a large circle or bubble.
• Everything is in this bubble and under the authority of God. It includes time, history, angels, material, humans, etc.
• Inside this large bubble are much smaller bubbles (or, kingdoms) which represent each of our own spheres of control, operation, responsibility or authority.
• God has ultimate responsibility but inside his bubble (realm, kingdom) he has granted individuals to have their own bubble.
• This bubble is our lives, the things we can control and influence.
• We do have responsibility and we do make a difference. We can control what comes in and what goes out of our lives to a very great extent.
• God wants to place his truth, his salvation, his promises into our lives, but we have the authority. If we do not want his plan, like the Exodus generation did not want his plan, we can reject it. But, if we do want his will or his promises we are the one's to allow it into our bubble.
• If there is something we need, God has already made a way for it, but we must ask.
  

God Makes Promises and Plans; We Seek Him and His Promises

• James 4:2, "You do not have, because you do not ask God."

  James 4:1-2 describes people wanting things (food, provision, education, etc.) but they covet, fight, quarrel and kill to get it. God says they don't have because they have not asked him. They weren't asking for bad things, but they went about getting what they needed and wanted in their lives (their bubbles) with out walking in God's ways, trusting God's promises and asking God for what they wanted.

• 2 Corinthians 1:20, "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God."
  

  Every promise (that applies to us) is available to you as a believer in Christ. So, our position is to speak the 'Amen' or, the 'so be it'. Our job is to ask for it, seek for it, to want it and allow it into our lives.
  Notice:
  1. It is "in Christ," or "through him" which means "in Jesus name."
  2. We speak the "Amen", or the prayer, request. We open the door to our realm of authority for God's promise.
  3. This is "to the glory of God." When we receive God's promises through prayer God is glorified.

God's Promise to Elijah and Elijah's Prayer for God's Promise

• James 5:13-18 - these verses include "Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops."
  

  This verse is true but in both cases (no rain, and lots of rain) God had already made a promise. Elijah's job was to hear, proclaim and pray for the promise.

• 1 Kings 18:1, God promises he will now send rain on the land
• 1 Kings 17:41-44, Elijah prays seven times before the promised rain comes.
  

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you.
For everyone who asks receives;he who seeks finds;
and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."
Matthew 7:7-8

"Yet you have not called upon me, O Jacob,
you have not wearied yourselves for me, O Israel."
Isaiah 43:22

During the next few weeks in church we will be discussing the basics of prayer. I will be attempting to make prayer more understandable so that it is more natural to pray and more productive for our lives. You need God in your life. We need God in our nation.

Watch this sermon in RealPlayer here
Listen or download the .mp3 here

Galyn Wiemers
http://www.generationword.com