When Jesus said to the paralyzed man at the Pool of Bethesda, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk,” Jesus was asking him to respond in faith. The third sermon in this series will help us learn how we too can be healed when we respond to the gospel’s message. You won’t want to miss it!
Scripture: John 5:1-9a
Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie – the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked, “Do you want to get well?”
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Living Faith” delivered on Christian Crusaders February 13, 2005 by Rev. Larsen:
I appreciate what J. A. Motyer said, “To Paul, the question was, ‘How is salvation experienced?’ The answer is, ‘by faith in Christ alone.’ To James the question was, ‘How is faith recognized?’ The answer is, ‘by its fruits.’” We are saved by faith in Jesus Christ alone, but a living faith produces good works.
New Issue of The Crusader
The latest issue of the Crusader, Christian Crusaders’ quarterly newsletter, is out now. The theme for this issue is forgiveness. To receive a free copy of this special publication, which features an article by both Rev. Larsen and Rev. Kramer as well as news about the ministry, call or e-mail the Christian Crusaders office.
On the Light Side
It was graduation day, and everybody was going to get their diploma except Jeffrey. At the assembly, the entire senior class stood up and shouted, “Let Jeffrey graduate! Let Jeffrey graduate!”
So the principal agreed to give Jeffrey one last chance. “If I have five apples in my right hand and five in my left hand, Jeffrey, how many apples do I have?” he asked.
Jeffrey thought long and hard and then said, “Ten.”
The entire senior class stood up and shouted, “Give Jeffrey another chance. Give Jeffrey another chance!”
We Want to Hear From You!
Share a time when God has worked in your life to heal you by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "The Man is Healed" will air Sunday, May 23, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Showing posts with label homer larsen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label homer larsen. Show all posts
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Indifferent Crowd
As the paralyzed man lay at the Pool of Bethesda, no doubt he was ministered to by many good-hearted people passing by. What does one say to a friend who is ill, such as those at the Pool, or those in our care centers and hospitals today? We will continue this sermon series this week by talking about how to minister to those who are ill or dying.
Scripture: John 5:1-9a
Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie – the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked, “Do you want to get well?”
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Servants” delivered on Christian Crusaders October 18, 2009 by Rev. Larsen:
We cannot have Christ without a cross. The Kingdom of God turns the world’s idea of power and glory upside down and inside out. There is no CEO in the Kingdom of God. The agenda is not how to refrain from being offensive to the culture in which we live. The agenda is how to tell the story of Christ, for without Him we are helpless. This is a message the humanist cannot stand to hear, and sooner or later our lives will sense the world’s displeasure with us.
Facebook Fan Page
Christian Crusaders now has a FAN PAGE on Facebook! Search for “Christian Crusaders” and select the page with “Non-Profit Organization” beneath the name. Then click the “LIKE” button – that’s all you have to do to become a fan and receive our latest news and updates. This fan page will eventually become Christian Crusaders' only presence on Facebook, so click over and join today.
On the Light Side
Mother's Dictionary of Meanings
Pastor Helgens invited the children to come forward around the altar for an object lesson using squirrels as an example of industry and planning ahead. He requested that the boys and girls raise their hands when they knew what he was describing.
“This thing lives in trees [pause] and eats nuts [pause].” No hands went up. “It is gray [pause] and has a long bushy tail [pause].” The children looked at each other, but no hands were raised. “And it jumps from branch to branch [pause] and chatters when it gets excited [pause].”
Finally a little boy tentatively raised his hand. Pastor Helgens breathed a sigh of relief and called on him. “Well,” he said, “I know the answer must be Jesus, but it sure sounds like a squirrel to me.”
We Want to Hear From You!
When have you provided a word of comfort to someone in their darkest hour - when they were seriously ill or dying? Please share your story by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "The Indifferent Crowd" will air Sunday, May 16, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 5:1-9a
Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie – the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked, “Do you want to get well?”
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Servants” delivered on Christian Crusaders October 18, 2009 by Rev. Larsen:
We cannot have Christ without a cross. The Kingdom of God turns the world’s idea of power and glory upside down and inside out. There is no CEO in the Kingdom of God. The agenda is not how to refrain from being offensive to the culture in which we live. The agenda is how to tell the story of Christ, for without Him we are helpless. This is a message the humanist cannot stand to hear, and sooner or later our lives will sense the world’s displeasure with us.
Facebook Fan Page
Christian Crusaders now has a FAN PAGE on Facebook! Search for “Christian Crusaders” and select the page with “Non-Profit Organization” beneath the name. Then click the “LIKE” button – that’s all you have to do to become a fan and receive our latest news and updates. This fan page will eventually become Christian Crusaders' only presence on Facebook, so click over and join today.
On the Light Side
Mother's Dictionary of Meanings
Pastor Helgens invited the children to come forward around the altar for an object lesson using squirrels as an example of industry and planning ahead. He requested that the boys and girls raise their hands when they knew what he was describing.
“This thing lives in trees [pause] and eats nuts [pause].” No hands went up. “It is gray [pause] and has a long bushy tail [pause].” The children looked at each other, but no hands were raised. “And it jumps from branch to branch [pause] and chatters when it gets excited [pause].”
Finally a little boy tentatively raised his hand. Pastor Helgens breathed a sigh of relief and called on him. “Well,” he said, “I know the answer must be Jesus, but it sure sounds like a squirrel to me.”
We Want to Hear From You!
When have you provided a word of comfort to someone in their darkest hour - when they were seriously ill or dying? Please share your story by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "The Indifferent Crowd" will air Sunday, May 16, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Do You Want to Be Healed?
Do you like the way you are, or would you like God to change you? Jesus asked that same question to a man who had been paralyzed for thirty-eight years. The answer would seem simple; however, the result could mean a huge change in one’s lifestyle. This week we begin a sermon series on the Pool of Bethesda and learn what can happen when we have the courage to allow God to heal our infirmities.
Scripture: John 5:1-9a
Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie – the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked, “Do you want to get well?”
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “We Need a Savior” delivered on Christian Crusaders July 19, 2000, by Rev. Larsen:
We can point to certain leaders in our own land who served our land as temporal shepherds: Abraham Lincoln and F.D.R .We do not overlook such leadership. However, beyond these earthly problems no human can answer our true problems. Without Christ no matter how much of the material we possess, we are like sheep without a shepherd. We do not know how to live abundantly or die victoriously.
Mother's Day Gift Suggestion
If you’re still searching for a meaningful Mother’s Day gift for a special woman in your life, consider a set of five motherhood-themed sermons on audio CD from Christian Crusaders. This CD set comes attractively packaged and ready for giving—it can even be mailed directly to your recipient. Call the Christian Crusaders office to order the classic Mother’s Day gift set for a suggested donation of any amount.
On the Light Side
Mother's Dictionary of Meanings
Dumbwaiter: One who asks if the kids would care to order dessert.
Feedback: The inevitable result when the baby doesn’t appreciate the strained carrots.
Full Name: What you call your child when you’re mad at him.
Grandparents: The people who think your children are wonderful even though they’re sure you’re not raising them right.
Hearsay: What toddlers do when anyone mutters a dirty word.
Independent: How we want our children to be for as long as they do everything we say.
Puddle: A small body of water that draws other small bodies wearing dry shoes into it.
Show Off: A child who is more talented than yours.
Sterilize: What you do to your first baby’s pacifier by boiling it, and to your last baby’s pacifier by blowing on it and wiping it with saliva.
Top Bunk: Where you should never put a child wearing Superman jammies.
Two-Minute Warning: When the baby’s face turns red and begins to make those familiar grunting noises.
Whodunit: None of the kids who live in your house.
We Want to Hear From You!
What is something God has helped you change for the better in your life? Share your story by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "Do You Want to Be Healed?" will air Sunday, May 9, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 5:1-9a
Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie – the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked, “Do you want to get well?”
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “We Need a Savior” delivered on Christian Crusaders July 19, 2000, by Rev. Larsen:
We can point to certain leaders in our own land who served our land as temporal shepherds: Abraham Lincoln and F.D.R .We do not overlook such leadership. However, beyond these earthly problems no human can answer our true problems. Without Christ no matter how much of the material we possess, we are like sheep without a shepherd. We do not know how to live abundantly or die victoriously.
Mother's Day Gift Suggestion
If you’re still searching for a meaningful Mother’s Day gift for a special woman in your life, consider a set of five motherhood-themed sermons on audio CD from Christian Crusaders. This CD set comes attractively packaged and ready for giving—it can even be mailed directly to your recipient. Call the Christian Crusaders office to order the classic Mother’s Day gift set for a suggested donation of any amount.
On the Light Side
Mother's Dictionary of Meanings
Dumbwaiter: One who asks if the kids would care to order dessert.
Feedback: The inevitable result when the baby doesn’t appreciate the strained carrots.
Full Name: What you call your child when you’re mad at him.
Grandparents: The people who think your children are wonderful even though they’re sure you’re not raising them right.
Hearsay: What toddlers do when anyone mutters a dirty word.
Independent: How we want our children to be for as long as they do everything we say.
Puddle: A small body of water that draws other small bodies wearing dry shoes into it.
Show Off: A child who is more talented than yours.
Sterilize: What you do to your first baby’s pacifier by boiling it, and to your last baby’s pacifier by blowing on it and wiping it with saliva.
Top Bunk: Where you should never put a child wearing Superman jammies.
Two-Minute Warning: When the baby’s face turns red and begins to make those familiar grunting noises.
Whodunit: None of the kids who live in your house.
We Want to Hear From You!
What is something God has helped you change for the better in your life? Share your story by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "Do You Want to Be Healed?" will air Sunday, May 9, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
A Refreshing Offer
Something many of us desperately need is rest and refreshment from the fears, doubts, and issues plaguing our lives. In this week’s sermon, Rev. Kramer uses the Apostle Peter’s words to tell us what we need to do to receive this wonderful gift.
Scripture: Acts 3:11-20
While the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon’s Colonnade. When Peter saw this, he said to them: “Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.
“Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you – even Jesus. He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Lord of the Second Chance” delivered on Christian Crusaders July 29, 2007, by Rev. Kramer:
All of us have run a long way in the wrong direction at times. Because of the forgiveness offered in Jesus Christ, however, remember – the game is only half over. . . According to this story, a new start is available. We have a second chance. Jesus does not write me off. Yes, dear friends, we still have our moments when we blow it as followers of Jesus Christ. But here is the good news: Jesus Christ, our risen Savior, is the Lord of the second chance.
Messages on DVD
Appropriate for Memorial Day, as we remember those who have passed, is volume three in Rev. Larsen’s DVD sermon series, Basic Biblical Truths. In this sermon, “Fear Not . . . I Am With You,” Rev. Larsen discusses Isaiah 43:1: “Fear not, I have redeemed you, I have called you by name.” What a comfort to know God is with us in times of fear, just as he was with those who walked with him in biblical times. In this video, we hear how having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ makes all the difference, for in times of trouble, we’ll know the One to whom we turn. Call 1-888-693-2484 1-888-693-2484 to order this DVD for a suggested donation of ten dollars, or order online at www.christiancrusaders.org.
On the Light Side
I am not hard of hearing but, sometimes . . . Well, sometimes the words I hear just don’t seem to register quite right.
A group of us were enjoying coffee together, and one of the ladies was excitedly sharing the fact she was getting a new microwave oven. But she didn’t say she was going to buy or purchase one – she used the word acquire. She was going to acquire a microwave oven.
The conversation wasn’t making a lick of sense to me and I blurted out, “What in the world are you talking about?!”
Startled and puzzled, she wondered what the problem was. I explained, “I’ve got this vision of a choir loft full of microwave ovens with the doors opening and closing, the lights going on and off, and the buzzers buzzing.”
We Want to Hear From You!
When was the last time you turned to God with an issue that was plaguing you? Share your story by posting in the "comments" section of this blog.
The program "A Refreshing Offer" will air Sunday, April 25, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Acts 3:11-20
While the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon’s Colonnade. When Peter saw this, he said to them: “Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.
“Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you – even Jesus. He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Lord of the Second Chance” delivered on Christian Crusaders July 29, 2007, by Rev. Kramer:
All of us have run a long way in the wrong direction at times. Because of the forgiveness offered in Jesus Christ, however, remember – the game is only half over. . . According to this story, a new start is available. We have a second chance. Jesus does not write me off. Yes, dear friends, we still have our moments when we blow it as followers of Jesus Christ. But here is the good news: Jesus Christ, our risen Savior, is the Lord of the second chance.
Messages on DVD
Appropriate for Memorial Day, as we remember those who have passed, is volume three in Rev. Larsen’s DVD sermon series, Basic Biblical Truths. In this sermon, “Fear Not . . . I Am With You,” Rev. Larsen discusses Isaiah 43:1: “Fear not, I have redeemed you, I have called you by name.” What a comfort to know God is with us in times of fear, just as he was with those who walked with him in biblical times. In this video, we hear how having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ makes all the difference, for in times of trouble, we’ll know the One to whom we turn. Call 1-888-693-2484 1-888-693-2484 to order this DVD for a suggested donation of ten dollars, or order online at www.christiancrusaders.org.
On the Light Side
I am not hard of hearing but, sometimes . . . Well, sometimes the words I hear just don’t seem to register quite right.
A group of us were enjoying coffee together, and one of the ladies was excitedly sharing the fact she was getting a new microwave oven. But she didn’t say she was going to buy or purchase one – she used the word acquire. She was going to acquire a microwave oven.
The conversation wasn’t making a lick of sense to me and I blurted out, “What in the world are you talking about?!”
Startled and puzzled, she wondered what the problem was. I explained, “I’ve got this vision of a choir loft full of microwave ovens with the doors opening and closing, the lights going on and off, and the buzzers buzzing.”
We Want to Hear From You!
When was the last time you turned to God with an issue that was plaguing you? Share your story by posting in the "comments" section of this blog.
The program "A Refreshing Offer" will air Sunday, April 25, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Christ is Risen - An Epiphany Story
Do you wrestle with your belief in the resurrection? That is understandable, for even Jesus’ disciples struggled with it. Yet it is the foundation of the Christian faith. While Jesus rising from the dead may be difficult for our human minds to grasp, God reveals it in a unique and exciting way.
Scripture: Luke 24:1-32
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with the faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here: he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’” Then they remembered his words.
When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.
He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
“What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.”
He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Christ Lives” delivered on Christian Crusaders April 11, 2004, by Rev. Larsen:
Jesus’ disciples had not fully comprehended all that had taken place. They were hiding behind closed doors for fear of the Jews. However, when Jesus stood in their midst and showed them His nail-pierced hands and sword-pierced side, they became fearless witnesses of the Savior. The Jesus of Nazareth, who had once walked beside them, now was the Risen Lord who lived in their hearts.
The same is true today. Nothing can change your life as drastically as having Jesus live in your heart. That is when we become new people. When temptation comes, we find power to resist. The Risen Lord provides the strength if we will call on Him. When guilt tears us apart, we hear the living Savior say, “I forgive you,” and we have peace. When we walk away from the grave of a loved one with a broken heart and tears rolling down our cheeks, we sing with St. Paul “Where, O death, is your victory?”
Happy Easter from Christian Crusaders
As you prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ this week, Christian Crusaders would like to wish all of our listeners a blessed Easter season. We pray that you travel safely and rejoice fully in the hope of the Resurrection.
On the Light Side
When one crosses an angora rabbit with an Easter Bunny, do they get a cross hair?
Good Idea: Finding Easter eggs on Easter.
Bad Idea: Finding Easter eggs on Christmas.
Q. What do Easter Bunny helpers get for making a basket?
A. Two points, just like anyone else.
Q. What’s invisible and smells like carrots?
A. The Ether Bunny
Q. Why did the Easter Bunny hide his eggs?
A. He doesn’t want the other bunnies to know that he’d been hanging out with the chickens.
Q: What do you call a duck that just doesn’t fit in?
A: Mallardjusted.
We Want to Hear From You!
Tell us about the power of the Easter message in your life by posting in the "comments" section of this blog.
The program "Christ is Risen - An Epiphany Story" will air Sunday, April 4, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Luke 24:1-32
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with the faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here: he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’” Then they remembered his words.
When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.
He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
“What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.”
He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Christ Lives” delivered on Christian Crusaders April 11, 2004, by Rev. Larsen:
Jesus’ disciples had not fully comprehended all that had taken place. They were hiding behind closed doors for fear of the Jews. However, when Jesus stood in their midst and showed them His nail-pierced hands and sword-pierced side, they became fearless witnesses of the Savior. The Jesus of Nazareth, who had once walked beside them, now was the Risen Lord who lived in their hearts.
The same is true today. Nothing can change your life as drastically as having Jesus live in your heart. That is when we become new people. When temptation comes, we find power to resist. The Risen Lord provides the strength if we will call on Him. When guilt tears us apart, we hear the living Savior say, “I forgive you,” and we have peace. When we walk away from the grave of a loved one with a broken heart and tears rolling down our cheeks, we sing with St. Paul “Where, O death, is your victory?”
Happy Easter from Christian Crusaders
As you prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ this week, Christian Crusaders would like to wish all of our listeners a blessed Easter season. We pray that you travel safely and rejoice fully in the hope of the Resurrection.
On the Light Side
When one crosses an angora rabbit with an Easter Bunny, do they get a cross hair?
Good Idea: Finding Easter eggs on Easter.
Bad Idea: Finding Easter eggs on Christmas.
Q. What do Easter Bunny helpers get for making a basket?
A. Two points, just like anyone else.
Q. What’s invisible and smells like carrots?
A. The Ether Bunny
Q. Why did the Easter Bunny hide his eggs?
A. He doesn’t want the other bunnies to know that he’d been hanging out with the chickens.
Q: What do you call a duck that just doesn’t fit in?
A: Mallardjusted.
We Want to Hear From You!
Tell us about the power of the Easter message in your life by posting in the "comments" section of this blog.
The program "Christ is Risen - An Epiphany Story" will air Sunday, April 4, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
In Your Hour of Trial, What Will You Do?
Most of us have had some tough times in our lives. It is a part of our fallen world. So where do you turn for strength during days of trial? In this week’s sermon we will look at an event in Jesus’ life as an example of how to handle those tough moments.
Scripture: John 19:25-27
Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Voice in the Storm” delivered on Christian Crusaders September 26, 2004 by Rev. Larsen:
"Your son has enlisted in the Marine Corps and is about to be sent to Iraq. You have read that more than 1,000 young men and women from our country have died in this war. Thousands have been wounded. Could this be the fate of your son, whom you love so much? That is an emotional hurricane. You need an anchor, and that anchor is the promise of God’s Word. The Lord has not promised that your son would return home. However, He has said he would walk with him."
An Easy Way to Help Spread the Gospel
Christian Crusaders would like to thank all those who help carry out the mission of this ministry through their gifts and prayers. One way you can help Christian Crusaders reach out is to add a link to www.ChristianCrusaders.org on your church or organization’s Web site. This is a simple way you can introduce others to a source of biblical truth over the radio and Internet.
On the Light Side
Mr. Jones loved the outdoors. Because of his passion for hunting and fishing, his family ate a considerable amount of wild game.
One evening, as Mrs. Jones sat a platter of broiled venison steaks on the dinner table, ten-year-old Chloe Jones looked up and said: “Boy, it sure would be nice if pizzas lived in the woods.”
We Want to Hear From You!
Share a story about a Christian friend who has walked along with you and your Savior during one of life's tough moments by posting in the "comments" section of this blog.
The program "In Your Hour of Trial, What Will You Do?" will air Sunday, March 21, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 19:25-27
Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Voice in the Storm” delivered on Christian Crusaders September 26, 2004 by Rev. Larsen:
"Your son has enlisted in the Marine Corps and is about to be sent to Iraq. You have read that more than 1,000 young men and women from our country have died in this war. Thousands have been wounded. Could this be the fate of your son, whom you love so much? That is an emotional hurricane. You need an anchor, and that anchor is the promise of God’s Word. The Lord has not promised that your son would return home. However, He has said he would walk with him."
An Easy Way to Help Spread the Gospel
Christian Crusaders would like to thank all those who help carry out the mission of this ministry through their gifts and prayers. One way you can help Christian Crusaders reach out is to add a link to www.ChristianCrusaders.org on your church or organization’s Web site. This is a simple way you can introduce others to a source of biblical truth over the radio and Internet.
On the Light Side
Mr. Jones loved the outdoors. Because of his passion for hunting and fishing, his family ate a considerable amount of wild game.
One evening, as Mrs. Jones sat a platter of broiled venison steaks on the dinner table, ten-year-old Chloe Jones looked up and said: “Boy, it sure would be nice if pizzas lived in the woods.”
We Want to Hear From You!
Share a story about a Christian friend who has walked along with you and your Savior during one of life's tough moments by posting in the "comments" section of this blog.
The program "In Your Hour of Trial, What Will You Do?" will air Sunday, March 21, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Why He Died
After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, the people were excited about all the good Jesus had done. Yet some believed he must be put to death. Have you ever wondered why Jesus really had to die? We will talk about it in this week’s sermon.
Scripture: John 11:45-52
Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him. But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what he had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the council, and said, "What are we to do? This man is performing many signs. If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and destroy both our holy place and our nation.”
But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all! You do not understand that it is better for you to have one man die for the people than to have the whole nation destroyed.”
He did not say this on his own, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus was about to die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but to gather into one the dispersed children of God.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Where Is Security?” delivered on Christian Crusaders April 5, 2009 by Rev. Kramer:
All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. There is no way human beings can fix that relationship with God. We need a Savior. On the cross Jesus took upon himself the punishment and wrath for your sins and mine. He took our place and announced, “It is finished,” meaning, paid in full; mission accomplished. And on Sunday God raised him up and said, Yes!
Basic Biblical Truths CDs
Christian Crusaders is pleased to offer a five-volume set of original sermons on DVD video by our radio speaker, Rev. Dr. Homer Larsen. Each of these engaging Gospel messages is twenty minutes in length and perfect for pulpit supply, small group or individual use. The set would also make a great gift or donation to a church library! Each volume is available for a suggested donation of ten dollars, or fifty dollars for the complete set. Call or visit our Web site to order.
On the Light Side
On my way home one day, I stopped to watch a Little League baseball game that was being played in a park near my home. As I sat down behind the bench on the first base line, I asked one of the boys what the score was. “We’re behind 14 to nothing,’ he answered with a smile.
“Really,” I said. “I have to say, you don’t look very discouraged.”
“Discouraged?” the boy asked with a puzzled look on his face. “Why should we be discouraged? We haven’t been up to bat yet.”
The program "Why He Died" will air Sunday, March 14, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 11:45-52
Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him. But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what he had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the council, and said, "What are we to do? This man is performing many signs. If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and destroy both our holy place and our nation.”
But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all! You do not understand that it is better for you to have one man die for the people than to have the whole nation destroyed.”
He did not say this on his own, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus was about to die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but to gather into one the dispersed children of God.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Where Is Security?” delivered on Christian Crusaders April 5, 2009 by Rev. Kramer:
All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. There is no way human beings can fix that relationship with God. We need a Savior. On the cross Jesus took upon himself the punishment and wrath for your sins and mine. He took our place and announced, “It is finished,” meaning, paid in full; mission accomplished. And on Sunday God raised him up and said, Yes!
Basic Biblical Truths CDs
Christian Crusaders is pleased to offer a five-volume set of original sermons on DVD video by our radio speaker, Rev. Dr. Homer Larsen. Each of these engaging Gospel messages is twenty minutes in length and perfect for pulpit supply, small group or individual use. The set would also make a great gift or donation to a church library! Each volume is available for a suggested donation of ten dollars, or fifty dollars for the complete set. Call or visit our Web site to order.
On the Light Side
On my way home one day, I stopped to watch a Little League baseball game that was being played in a park near my home. As I sat down behind the bench on the first base line, I asked one of the boys what the score was. “We’re behind 14 to nothing,’ he answered with a smile.
“Really,” I said. “I have to say, you don’t look very discouraged.”
“Discouraged?” the boy asked with a puzzled look on his face. “Why should we be discouraged? We haven’t been up to bat yet.”
The program "Why He Died" will air Sunday, March 14, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
The Day You Were Baptized
The day you were baptized is an important part of your Christian faith story. Christians may not agree on how baptism is to be done, or when it should take place; however there is general agreement that it has an important place in our salvation. In this week’s sermon we will discuss the distinction between a Christian baptism and John the Baptist’s baptism.
Scripture: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22
The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ. John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”
When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized tool. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am will pleased.”
Hymns
“Borning Cry”
“Children of the Heavenly Father”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Day Jesus Made a Decision“ delivered on Christian Crusaders January 12, 2003.
The Spirit anointed Jesus (at his baptism), and His work to redeem the world began. What can this mean for us? It identified whom we can become – the adopted children of God. Paul picks up on this thought when he writes, “But when the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4). Jesus was the natural-born child of God; He knew no sin. We are the adopted children of God. When our sin is taken away by grace through faith in Christ, God makes us his. Because we are his sons and daughters, we can call God our Father. This was offered to us because, on the day of His baptism, Jesus made a decision for us.
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Visit Christian Crusaders' online store to find Rev. Larsen's book, his DVD sermon series Basic Biblical Truths, and copies of past sermons on CD, cassette, or in print. All of these items are available at http://www.christiancrusaders.org/store.asp and make great gifts, donations to your church library, or additions to your personal collection.
On the Light Side
I was working in a parochial preschool when one little boy's family was blessed with triplets. Soon afterward the little boy excitedly ran into class one morning telling us his grandma, grandpa and all his cousins were coming to visit. When I asked him why they were coming, he said with all conviction and excitement, “MY BABIES ARE BEING CAPSIZED!”
Let's Hear From You!
What is your favorite baptism story? Please share your favorite baptism story by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "The Day You Were Baptized" will air Sunday, January 10, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22
The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ. John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”
When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized tool. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am will pleased.”
Hymns
“Borning Cry”
“Children of the Heavenly Father”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Day Jesus Made a Decision“ delivered on Christian Crusaders January 12, 2003.
The Spirit anointed Jesus (at his baptism), and His work to redeem the world began. What can this mean for us? It identified whom we can become – the adopted children of God. Paul picks up on this thought when he writes, “But when the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4). Jesus was the natural-born child of God; He knew no sin. We are the adopted children of God. When our sin is taken away by grace through faith in Christ, God makes us his. Because we are his sons and daughters, we can call God our Father. This was offered to us because, on the day of His baptism, Jesus made a decision for us.
On ChristianCrusaders.org
Visit Christian Crusaders' online store to find Rev. Larsen's book, his DVD sermon series Basic Biblical Truths, and copies of past sermons on CD, cassette, or in print. All of these items are available at http://www.christiancrusaders.org/store.asp and make great gifts, donations to your church library, or additions to your personal collection.
On the Light Side
I was working in a parochial preschool when one little boy's family was blessed with triplets. Soon afterward the little boy excitedly ran into class one morning telling us his grandma, grandpa and all his cousins were coming to visit. When I asked him why they were coming, he said with all conviction and excitement, “MY BABIES ARE BEING CAPSIZED!”
Let's Hear From You!
What is your favorite baptism story? Please share your favorite baptism story by posting in the "Comments" section of this blog.
The program "The Day You Were Baptized" will air Sunday, January 10, 2010. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Where is Jesus?
Jesus’ parents, after leaving the Passover Feast, could not find him and asked, “Where is Jesus?” for three days before finding him in the temple. Had they looked in the temple first, they would have found him right away. As we encounter rough patches in our lives, we also find ourselves asking, Where is Jesus? We find him by looking in the right place.
Scripture: Luke 2:41-52
Every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the Feast, according to the custom. After the Feast was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”
“Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he was saying to them.
Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Perplexed Parent“ delivered on Christian Crusaders January 4, 2004.
The life of Jesus is not a fairy tale, nor is it simply a legend. It is the story of God coming to this world. It is full of mystery that is revealed in part by the Holy Spirit to the Christian while he or she is here on this earth. It will be fully revealed only when we have come to our heavenly home. It is the mystery that adds to the joy of living with the Gospel and experiencing His love for us.
New on ChristianCrusaders.org
The Christian Crusaders website has a new faith link! Visit the Faith Links page and click on Words of Strength, a weekly devotion written by the Rev. Dick Bieber and based on scriptural events. Check back every Monday for a new uplifting message!
On the Light Side
Christmas Carol Quiz
1. Boulder of the Tinkling Metal Spheres
2. Castaneous-Colored Seed Vesicated in a Conflagration
3. Singular Yearning for the Twin Anterior Incisors
4. Righteous Darkness
5. Arrival Time: 2400 Hours. Weather: Cloudless
6. Loyal Followers Advance
7. Far Off in a Feeder
8. Array the Corridor
9. Bantam Male Percussionist
10. Monarchial Triad
11. Nocturnal Noiselessness
12. Jehoval Deactivate Blithe Chevaliers
13. Red Man En Route to Borough
14. Frozen Precipitation Commence
15. Proceed and Enlighten on the Pinnacle
16. The Quadruped with the Vermilion Proboscis
17. Query Regarding Identity of Descendant
18. Delight for This Planet
19. Give Attention to the Melodious Celestial Beings
20. The Dozen Festive 24 Hour Intervals
The program "Where is Jesus?" will air Sunday, December 27, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Luke 2:41-52
Every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the Feast, according to the custom. After the Feast was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”
“Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he was saying to them.
Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Perplexed Parent“ delivered on Christian Crusaders January 4, 2004.
The life of Jesus is not a fairy tale, nor is it simply a legend. It is the story of God coming to this world. It is full of mystery that is revealed in part by the Holy Spirit to the Christian while he or she is here on this earth. It will be fully revealed only when we have come to our heavenly home. It is the mystery that adds to the joy of living with the Gospel and experiencing His love for us.
New on ChristianCrusaders.org
The Christian Crusaders website has a new faith link! Visit the Faith Links page and click on Words of Strength, a weekly devotion written by the Rev. Dick Bieber and based on scriptural events. Check back every Monday for a new uplifting message!
On the Light Side
Christmas Carol Quiz
1. Boulder of the Tinkling Metal Spheres
2. Castaneous-Colored Seed Vesicated in a Conflagration
3. Singular Yearning for the Twin Anterior Incisors
4. Righteous Darkness
5. Arrival Time: 2400 Hours. Weather: Cloudless
6. Loyal Followers Advance
7. Far Off in a Feeder
8. Array the Corridor
9. Bantam Male Percussionist
10. Monarchial Triad
11. Nocturnal Noiselessness
12. Jehoval Deactivate Blithe Chevaliers
13. Red Man En Route to Borough
14. Frozen Precipitation Commence
15. Proceed and Enlighten on the Pinnacle
16. The Quadruped with the Vermilion Proboscis
17. Query Regarding Identity of Descendant
18. Delight for This Planet
19. Give Attention to the Melodious Celestial Beings
20. The Dozen Festive 24 Hour Intervals
The program "Where is Jesus?" will air Sunday, December 27, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Don't Stop at the Crib
Christmastime can be very emotional – it carries both happy and sad memories for us. However, the story of Jesus’ birth has a message that still speaks to our emotions during this season. In this week’s sermon, we will talk about what that message is and what it says to us in both our good and our not-so-good days.
Scripture: Luke 2:1-10
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angels said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Why Did He Come?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders December 18, 2005.
We who are Christians experience this feeling of being lost also. This does not mean we are not God’s redeemed children. Our sins are forgiven, and we are assured of our heavenly home, but as Christians we often find ourselves walking away from our Lord. Christians? Yes! But in need of help from our Lord. When we have an unforgiving spirit. . . When we fail to tell people of the Savior in a loving way. . . When we pick and choose what we accept in the Bible so it suits us in addressing social issues of the day. That is why Jesus came.
Christmas Gift Idea
It's not too late to order a last-minute gift – copies of Christian Crusaders’ gift set of Christmas sermons are still available! This audio CD set of sermons based on Isaiah 9:6 is available for $10 and can be mailed directly to your recipient. Call 1-888-My Faith or visit ChristianCrusaders.org to order. It might be a meaningful gift for a faraway friend, a next-door neighbor, or someone from your church who is lonely around the holidays.
On the Light Side
Every Christmas morning when her children were little, Patty read them the nativity story out of the big family Bible.
When her youngest son was old enough to talk, he asked what a stable was.
Patty thought for a moment about how to explain it to him in terms he could understand. Then she told him, “It’s something like your sister’s room, but without a stereo.”
The program "Don't Stop at the Crib" will air Sunday, December 20, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Luke 2:1-10
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angels said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Why Did He Come?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders December 18, 2005.
We who are Christians experience this feeling of being lost also. This does not mean we are not God’s redeemed children. Our sins are forgiven, and we are assured of our heavenly home, but as Christians we often find ourselves walking away from our Lord. Christians? Yes! But in need of help from our Lord. When we have an unforgiving spirit. . . When we fail to tell people of the Savior in a loving way. . . When we pick and choose what we accept in the Bible so it suits us in addressing social issues of the day. That is why Jesus came.
Christmas Gift Idea
It's not too late to order a last-minute gift – copies of Christian Crusaders’ gift set of Christmas sermons are still available! This audio CD set of sermons based on Isaiah 9:6 is available for $10 and can be mailed directly to your recipient. Call 1-888-My Faith or visit ChristianCrusaders.org to order. It might be a meaningful gift for a faraway friend, a next-door neighbor, or someone from your church who is lonely around the holidays.
On the Light Side
Every Christmas morning when her children were little, Patty read them the nativity story out of the big family Bible.
When her youngest son was old enough to talk, he asked what a stable was.
Patty thought for a moment about how to explain it to him in terms he could understand. Then she told him, “It’s something like your sister’s room, but without a stereo.”
The program "Don't Stop at the Crib" will air Sunday, December 20, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
I Came to Give You an Abundant Life
Jesus once said he had come that we might have life, and have it to the full. What did he mean by that statement? In this week’s sermon we will discuss Jesus’ intention when he referred to us having an abundant life.
Scripture: John 10:1-1
“I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.
Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate: whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Living a Full Life“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 9, 2007.
"Life presents its anxious moments. However, if we build our lives on Christ and his Word, we will have a sure foundation. The Savior says to us, 'Fear not. I am with you. I will comfort you and strengthen you. I will direct you.' Then you can say with St. Paul, 'I have learned in whatever state I am in to be content.' That is the secret of living a full life."
Christmas Gift Idea
If you are looking for a meaningful gift for a loved one, you might try a boxed set of holiday sermons on audio CD from Christian Crusaders. These sermons are a series taken from Isaiah 9:6 and come attractively packaged, ready for Christmas giving. This gift set, available for a suggested donation of ten dollars, is a gift that celebrates the true meaning of the season, the birth of Jesus. You can call our office at 1-888-My Faith (1-888-693-2484) to order, or visit our Web site at ChristianCrusaders.org.
On the Light Side
It was the last school day before Christmas. The school bus driver, who had high school riders, was thrilled to receive cards and presents from all his students.
“Man,” he thought, “I must be a good driver. All the kids like me." That is, until he arrived home and began opening the cards. On the inside of one card he read, "Thanks for not killing us yet. We really appreciate it."
The program "I Came to Give You an Abundant Life" will air Sunday, December 13, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 10:1-1
“I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what he was telling them.
Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate: whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Living a Full Life“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 9, 2007.
"Life presents its anxious moments. However, if we build our lives on Christ and his Word, we will have a sure foundation. The Savior says to us, 'Fear not. I am with you. I will comfort you and strengthen you. I will direct you.' Then you can say with St. Paul, 'I have learned in whatever state I am in to be content.' That is the secret of living a full life."
Christmas Gift Idea
If you are looking for a meaningful gift for a loved one, you might try a boxed set of holiday sermons on audio CD from Christian Crusaders. These sermons are a series taken from Isaiah 9:6 and come attractively packaged, ready for Christmas giving. This gift set, available for a suggested donation of ten dollars, is a gift that celebrates the true meaning of the season, the birth of Jesus. You can call our office at 1-888-My Faith (1-888-693-2484) to order, or visit our Web site at ChristianCrusaders.org.
On the Light Side
It was the last school day before Christmas. The school bus driver, who had high school riders, was thrilled to receive cards and presents from all his students.
“Man,” he thought, “I must be a good driver. All the kids like me." That is, until he arrived home and began opening the cards. On the inside of one card he read, "Thanks for not killing us yet. We really appreciate it."
The program "I Came to Give You an Abundant Life" will air Sunday, December 13, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Why Did I Come?
Many people reduce Christmas to building or celebrating traditions. Little is said about Jesus and his birth. However, as Christians, we need to explore the answers to some very important questions that we deal with during this season. In this week’s sermon we will explore the answer Jesus gives to a question often asked at Christmastime.
Scripture: Luke 19:1-10
Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.
When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.
All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’”
But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”
Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Watch and Be Ready“ delivered on Christian Crusaders December 2, 2001.
As we take time to sit with God’s Word, He makes it powerfully clear why Jesus had to come. That’s why it is necessary to receive Christ if we want to be restored into a personal relationship with God. The manger was only the beginning. Thirty-three years later it was the cross and the empty tomb that provided full atonement for the sins of all those who would receive Him as their Savior and Lord.
On the Light Side
A rural church began the lovely Christmas tradition of staging a living Nativity scene on the front lawn. It became the talk of that small community. A visitor driving through town stopped and admired the performance, but one feature troubled him. The three wise men were carrying heavy canvas hoses, and they wore fire helmets. Unable to come up with an explanation on his own, the tourist went to one of the church members who stood by.
“Why the fire hoses and helmets on the three wise men?” he asked.
The church lady shook her head in disgust and replied, “You Yankees never do read the Bible!”
He assured her he did, but couldn’t recall anything about firemen in the Bible.
The lady indignantly pulled her Bible out from under her arm and riffled through the pages, finally jabbing her finger at one particular passage. Putting the Good Book right up in his face, she said, “See, Yankee, it says right here: ‘The three wise men came from afar!’”
The program "Why Did I Come?" will air Sunday, December 6, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Luke 19:1-10
Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.
When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.
All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’”
But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”
Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Watch and Be Ready“ delivered on Christian Crusaders December 2, 2001.
As we take time to sit with God’s Word, He makes it powerfully clear why Jesus had to come. That’s why it is necessary to receive Christ if we want to be restored into a personal relationship with God. The manger was only the beginning. Thirty-three years later it was the cross and the empty tomb that provided full atonement for the sins of all those who would receive Him as their Savior and Lord.
On the Light Side
A rural church began the lovely Christmas tradition of staging a living Nativity scene on the front lawn. It became the talk of that small community. A visitor driving through town stopped and admired the performance, but one feature troubled him. The three wise men were carrying heavy canvas hoses, and they wore fire helmets. Unable to come up with an explanation on his own, the tourist went to one of the church members who stood by.
“Why the fire hoses and helmets on the three wise men?” he asked.
The church lady shook her head in disgust and replied, “You Yankees never do read the Bible!”
He assured her he did, but couldn’t recall anything about firemen in the Bible.
The lady indignantly pulled her Bible out from under her arm and riffled through the pages, finally jabbing her finger at one particular passage. Putting the Good Book right up in his face, she said, “See, Yankee, it says right here: ‘The three wise men came from afar!’”
The program "Why Did I Come?" will air Sunday, December 6, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
What is Truth?
Pilate once asked Jesus, “What is truth?” It is a question that has been asked for thousands of years. Today we believe truth is subjective – what is truth for you may not be truth for me. Will there ever be an answer we can depend on?
Scripture: John 18:33-37
Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”
“Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?”
“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”
“Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.”
“You are a king, then!” said Pilate.
Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”
“What is truth?” Pilate asked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “What Will It Take to Satisfy Me?" delivered on Christian Crusaders August 13, 2000.
The hunger and thirst of the soul can only be satisfied by Jesus. This is one of Jesus’ basic teachings. When he said, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry and he who believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:36), his meaning was very clear. Jesus alone can satisfy the deep needs of our souls. What is this bread and wine to which Jesus refers? It is his Word with the promises found therein which satisfies the soul’s needs.
On the Light Side
A fisherman was getting a terrible reputation for stretching the truth. So he decided to buy a pair of scales and thereafter insisted on weighing every fish he caught in front of a witness.
All went well until one day a doctor borrowed the scales to weigh a newborn baby. The baby weighed forty-seven pounds!
The program "What is Truth?" will air Sunday, November 22, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 18:33-37
Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”
“Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?”
“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”
“Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.”
“You are a king, then!” said Pilate.
Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”
“What is truth?” Pilate asked.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “What Will It Take to Satisfy Me?" delivered on Christian Crusaders August 13, 2000.
The hunger and thirst of the soul can only be satisfied by Jesus. This is one of Jesus’ basic teachings. When he said, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry and he who believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:36), his meaning was very clear. Jesus alone can satisfy the deep needs of our souls. What is this bread and wine to which Jesus refers? It is his Word with the promises found therein which satisfies the soul’s needs.
On the Light Side
A fisherman was getting a terrible reputation for stretching the truth. So he decided to buy a pair of scales and thereafter insisted on weighing every fish he caught in front of a witness.
All went well until one day a doctor borrowed the scales to weigh a newborn baby. The baby weighed forty-seven pounds!
The program "What is Truth?" will air Sunday, November 22, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wise Living Starts With a Right Relationship With God
We love our children and want them to be people of character who do what is right and just. So we impart them with wisdom and practical skills for living this life. In fact, we want this for ourselves as well! In this week’s sermon, we will look at where we can find such wisdom.
Scripture: Proverbs 1:1-7
The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
for attaining wisdom and discipline;
for understanding words of insight;
for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life,
doing what is right and just and fair;
for giving prudence to the simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young –
let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance –
for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Spiritual Checkup: How's the Diet? “ delivered on Christian Crusaders October 19, 2008.
(Jesus) told his disciples, “Seek first the kingdom of God and all these other things that you worry so much about shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). . . Some scholars believe that Jesus was referring to everything he ever said to his disciples, his whole message, about totally trusting him with their lives. Jesus said spiritual help comes to a person who not only reads and hears his commandments, but actually lives by them. . . Jesus said, “I’ve said all these things so that you can have joy!” He wants us to have joy – the sense of well-being in any and all circumstances.
Christian Crusaders' Blog
Find this e-newsletter online at http://crusaderweekly.blogspot.com/. You can read about the upcoming sermon, find past e-newsletters, and leave comments on aired or upcoming Christian Crusaders sermons.
On the Light Side
Words of Wisdom:
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaky tire.
Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you.
If you lend someone $20 and never see them again, it was probably worth it.
If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.
Good judgment comes from bad experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.
The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it in your pocket.
A closed mouth gathers no foot.
There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.
Always remember you’re unique. Just like everyone else.
The program "Wise Living Starts With a Right Relationship with God" will air Sunday, November 15, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Proverbs 1:1-7
The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
for attaining wisdom and discipline;
for understanding words of insight;
for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life,
doing what is right and just and fair;
for giving prudence to the simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young –
let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance –
for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “A Spiritual Checkup: How's the Diet? “ delivered on Christian Crusaders October 19, 2008.
(Jesus) told his disciples, “Seek first the kingdom of God and all these other things that you worry so much about shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). . . Some scholars believe that Jesus was referring to everything he ever said to his disciples, his whole message, about totally trusting him with their lives. Jesus said spiritual help comes to a person who not only reads and hears his commandments, but actually lives by them. . . Jesus said, “I’ve said all these things so that you can have joy!” He wants us to have joy – the sense of well-being in any and all circumstances.
Christian Crusaders' Blog
Find this e-newsletter online at http://crusaderweekly.blogspot.com/. You can read about the upcoming sermon, find past e-newsletters, and leave comments on aired or upcoming Christian Crusaders sermons.
On the Light Side
Words of Wisdom:
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaky tire.
Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you.
If you lend someone $20 and never see them again, it was probably worth it.
If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.
Good judgment comes from bad experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.
The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it in your pocket.
A closed mouth gathers no foot.
There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.
Always remember you’re unique. Just like everyone else.
The program "Wise Living Starts With a Right Relationship with God" will air Sunday, November 15, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Hypocrisy
In the eyes of this world, some sins – such as theft and murder – are punishable by a prison sentence. However, these are not the sins that received the sternest words from Jesus. In this week’s sermon, we will discuss the seriousness of living a lifestyle that contradicts what we believe and confess.
Scripture: Mark 12:38-40
As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Call to Faithfulness“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 19, 2004.
I believe that as Christians we are reading the world wrong when we think they want us to adjust the teachings of God’s Word to be more palatable to their way of life. The unbeliever comes to the Christian for help with his or her way of life. At that point, we are tempted to condone the way they are living – a lifestyle very much contrary to God’s revealed will. Now they are hearing from me, a Christian, what they are hearing from some of their friends who are not Christians. I truly believe some of them cry out, “I need someone to tell me the truth about my lifestyle!” It is at this point that Christians have a marvelous opportunity to share what God’s Word has to say about the way this person is living and what he believes.
the Crusader Newsletter
The new issue of the Crusader, Christian Crusaders' quarterly newsletter, will soon be printed. The theme for this issue is “goodness,” a fruit of the Spirit. Contact Christian Crusaders by phone, email, or via the sign-up form on the website, to receive your copy of this special publication.
On the Light Side
A big, burly man visited the pastor's home and asked to see the minister's wife, a woman well known for her charitable impulses.
“Madam,” he said in a broken voice, “I wish to draw your attention to the terrible plight of a poor family in this district. The father is dead, the mother is too ill to work, and the nine children are starving. They are about to be turned into the cold, empty streets unless someone pays their rent, which amounts to $400.”
“How terrible!” exclaimed the preacher's wife. “May I ask who you are?”
The sympathetic visitor applied his handkerchief to his eyes. “I’m the landlord,” he sobbed.
The program "Hypocrisy" will air Sunday, November 8, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Mark 12:38-40
As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Call to Faithfulness“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 19, 2004.
I believe that as Christians we are reading the world wrong when we think they want us to adjust the teachings of God’s Word to be more palatable to their way of life. The unbeliever comes to the Christian for help with his or her way of life. At that point, we are tempted to condone the way they are living – a lifestyle very much contrary to God’s revealed will. Now they are hearing from me, a Christian, what they are hearing from some of their friends who are not Christians. I truly believe some of them cry out, “I need someone to tell me the truth about my lifestyle!” It is at this point that Christians have a marvelous opportunity to share what God’s Word has to say about the way this person is living and what he believes.
the Crusader Newsletter
The new issue of the Crusader, Christian Crusaders' quarterly newsletter, will soon be printed. The theme for this issue is “goodness,” a fruit of the Spirit. Contact Christian Crusaders by phone, email, or via the sign-up form on the website, to receive your copy of this special publication.
On the Light Side
A big, burly man visited the pastor's home and asked to see the minister's wife, a woman well known for her charitable impulses.
“Madam,” he said in a broken voice, “I wish to draw your attention to the terrible plight of a poor family in this district. The father is dead, the mother is too ill to work, and the nine children are starving. They are about to be turned into the cold, empty streets unless someone pays their rent, which amounts to $400.”
“How terrible!” exclaimed the preacher's wife. “May I ask who you are?”
The sympathetic visitor applied his handkerchief to his eyes. “I’m the landlord,” he sobbed.
The program "Hypocrisy" will air Sunday, November 8, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
An Ongoing Reformation
Last Sunday we talked about the Reformation, when Martin Luther exposed heresies being taught by the church and reintroduced people to the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Christ Jesus. Hundreds of years have since passed and biblical teachings have again been made to accommodate the culture of a particular generation. Thus we ask, is it time for an ongoing reformation in the church?
Scripture: II Timothy 4:1-5
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 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. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Reformation Event: How Can It Affect Our Lives Today?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders October 26, 2008.
The Gospel – that we are saved by grace – is so far above our human reasoning that we cannot comprehend it. We hear people say there is no free lunch. Many believe this is also true when it comes to their eternal salvation. So they hope they will be saved, but have no assurance. Others believe there is nothing to worry about. A gracious and loving God will save us all. The Reformation event gave us back the clear biblical teaching that we are saved by God’s grace through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus. This is the core of the Christian faith, which is eternal. God grant that it may be proclaimed faithfully until he comes again.
The Crusader Newsletter
The new issue of the Crusader, Christian Crusaders' quarterly newsletter, will soon be printed. The theme for this issue is “goodness,” a fruit of the Spirit. Contact Christian Crusaders by phone, email, or via the sign-up form on the website, to receive your copy of this special publication.
On the Light Side
What do skeletons say before they dine?
Bone appetite!
When is it bad to meet a black cat?
When you’re a mouse.
What do you call a fat Jack-o-lantern?
A plumpkin
What do birds sing on Halloween?
Twick or Tweet.
Why are there fences around the cemeteries?
Because people are dying to get in.
The program "An Ongoing Reformation" will air Sunday, November 1, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: II Timothy 4:1-5
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 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. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Reformation Event: How Can It Affect Our Lives Today?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders October 26, 2008.
The Gospel – that we are saved by grace – is so far above our human reasoning that we cannot comprehend it. We hear people say there is no free lunch. Many believe this is also true when it comes to their eternal salvation. So they hope they will be saved, but have no assurance. Others believe there is nothing to worry about. A gracious and loving God will save us all. The Reformation event gave us back the clear biblical teaching that we are saved by God’s grace through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus. This is the core of the Christian faith, which is eternal. God grant that it may be proclaimed faithfully until he comes again.
The Crusader Newsletter
The new issue of the Crusader, Christian Crusaders' quarterly newsletter, will soon be printed. The theme for this issue is “goodness,” a fruit of the Spirit. Contact Christian Crusaders by phone, email, or via the sign-up form on the website, to receive your copy of this special publication.
On the Light Side
What do skeletons say before they dine?
Bone appetite!
When is it bad to meet a black cat?
When you’re a mouse.
What do you call a fat Jack-o-lantern?
A plumpkin
What do birds sing on Halloween?
Twick or Tweet.
Why are there fences around the cemeteries?
Because people are dying to get in.
The program "An Ongoing Reformation" will air Sunday, November 1, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
God's Son Has Made us Free
We as a nation cherish our freedom. The Israelites likewise were tremendously proud that they were Abraham’s children. However, Jesus wants us all to know that we have a freedom more basic than this. In this week’s sermon we ask, when are we really free?
Scripture: John 8:31-36
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?”
Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if a Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “You Will Be Free“ delivered on Christian Crusaders October 31, 1999.
Jesus is not looking for short term followers. Note Jesus' word, abiding. This means we faithfully read and obey the Bible for it is our authority in matters of faith and life. These quiet moments with God’s Word are our daily visits with God through which He speaks to us. He will not only teach us the truth but will also empower us to live according to the truth, which in turn will make us free. In Christ we become new people, and a part of that newness is freedom.
Sharing the Good News
If you know anyone who might benefit from the Gospel-based messages available on Christian Crusaders, let them know about the ministry. Anyone in the country can listen anytime on ChristianCrusaders.org. Members of a church small group, a relative in a nursing home, a neighbor going through a difficult time . . . inviting any of them to listen might be a real blessing in their lives.
On the Light Side
Few people outside the military know what a Navy Quartermaster does (several duties include the watch-to-watch navigation and the maintenance of nautical charts and navigational instruments as well as duties that used to be part of the Signalman rating: visual communications).
So during my aircraft carrier’s Family Day, I demonstrated a procedure called semaphore. I grabbed my flags and signaled an imaginary boat. When finished, I pointed to a little girl in front and asked, “Now do you know what I do?”
“Yes,” she answered. “You’re a cheerleader.”
The program "God's Son Has Made us Free" will air Sunday, October 25, 2009. Visit http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: John 8:31-36
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?”
Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if a Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “You Will Be Free“ delivered on Christian Crusaders October 31, 1999.
Jesus is not looking for short term followers. Note Jesus' word, abiding. This means we faithfully read and obey the Bible for it is our authority in matters of faith and life. These quiet moments with God’s Word are our daily visits with God through which He speaks to us. He will not only teach us the truth but will also empower us to live according to the truth, which in turn will make us free. In Christ we become new people, and a part of that newness is freedom.
Sharing the Good News
If you know anyone who might benefit from the Gospel-based messages available on Christian Crusaders, let them know about the ministry. Anyone in the country can listen anytime on ChristianCrusaders.org. Members of a church small group, a relative in a nursing home, a neighbor going through a difficult time . . . inviting any of them to listen might be a real blessing in their lives.
On the Light Side
Few people outside the military know what a Navy Quartermaster does (several duties include the watch-to-watch navigation and the maintenance of nautical charts and navigational instruments as well as duties that used to be part of the Signalman rating: visual communications).
So during my aircraft carrier’s Family Day, I demonstrated a procedure called semaphore. I grabbed my flags and signaled an imaginary boat. When finished, I pointed to a little girl in front and asked, “Now do you know what I do?”
“Yes,” she answered. “You’re a cheerleader.”
The program "God's Son Has Made us Free" will air Sunday, October 25, 2009. Visit http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Achiever
Would you be willing to give up all your possessions in order to go to heaven? When a man once asked Jesus how to inherit eternal life, Jesus told him to sell everything he had. However, he was unwilling to go that far. How many of us would also be reluctant to give away everything we own? How, then, is it possible for us to enter the kingdom of heaven?
Scripture: Mark 10:17-31
As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good – except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”
“Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
Peter said to him, “We have left everything to follow you!”
“I tell you the truth,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields – and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Danger of Success“ delivered on Christian Crusaders August 5, 2001.
In this parable, God has not spoken against success. He just warns us of it’s dangers unless our plans fit into the plans He has for us. Success can inflate our ego to the point that we are obnoxious and no one will care to be around us. Or it can distort our sense of values so that we fail to hear Jesus saying, “Your salvation rests in knowing me personally as your Savior and Lord.”
A Quick Way to Start Your Day on an Uplifting Note
ChristianCrusaders.org features a daily devotion, front and center on the site’s home page, where you can immediately find food for spiritual thought anytime you need it. Then visit the Faith Links page for further Bible helps!
On the Light Side
Roger had recently begun waiting tables in a busy restaurant. One Friday night the owner suddenly emerged from the kitchen and handed Roger some money. “We're in trouble!” He said. “We’re out of quarters, and customers are waiting. Go next door and get me $40 worth.”
Roger ran to the supermarket next door, but the cashier said she wasn’t allowed to give out that many quarters. Determined, he sprinted to a convenience store two blocks away, but it was closed. At a gas station farther down the road, the clerk took pity and gave him the four rolls of quarters.
Twenty minutes after he’d left, Roger handed the coin rolls to his boss. “Where are the quarters?” he asked.
“Right here,” Roger said breathlessly.
His face sank. “I meant chicken hindquarters.”
The program "The Achiever" will air Sunday, October 11, 2009. Visit http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Mark 10:17-31
As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good – except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”
“Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
Peter said to him, “We have left everything to follow you!”
“I tell you the truth,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields – and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “The Danger of Success“ delivered on Christian Crusaders August 5, 2001.
In this parable, God has not spoken against success. He just warns us of it’s dangers unless our plans fit into the plans He has for us. Success can inflate our ego to the point that we are obnoxious and no one will care to be around us. Or it can distort our sense of values so that we fail to hear Jesus saying, “Your salvation rests in knowing me personally as your Savior and Lord.”
A Quick Way to Start Your Day on an Uplifting Note
ChristianCrusaders.org features a daily devotion, front and center on the site’s home page, where you can immediately find food for spiritual thought anytime you need it. Then visit the Faith Links page for further Bible helps!
On the Light Side
Roger had recently begun waiting tables in a busy restaurant. One Friday night the owner suddenly emerged from the kitchen and handed Roger some money. “We're in trouble!” He said. “We’re out of quarters, and customers are waiting. Go next door and get me $40 worth.”
Roger ran to the supermarket next door, but the cashier said she wasn’t allowed to give out that many quarters. Determined, he sprinted to a convenience store two blocks away, but it was closed. At a gas station farther down the road, the clerk took pity and gave him the four rolls of quarters.
Twenty minutes after he’d left, Roger handed the coin rolls to his boss. “Where are the quarters?” he asked.
“Right here,” Roger said breathlessly.
His face sank. “I meant chicken hindquarters.”
The program "The Achiever" will air Sunday, October 11, 2009. Visit http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Who Are Our Leaders?
If you were starting your life’s work over, are there certain things you would do differently? In this week’s sermon, Rev. Larsen will use Jesus’ example to tell what he would change in his parish ministry in order to build better church leaders.
Scripture: Mark 9:30-37
They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.
They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.
Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon, “Meditation,” delivered on Christian Crusaders July 14, 2002.
“. . . turn to the Scriptures. There you will learn that your Heavenly Father is the Creator. . . Realize that only after you get to heaven will the answers come, and the only way you can get to heaven is through trusting in God’s Son Jesus Christ. . . God has a word for us. He says to take some time every day to be alone with him and meditate on his Word. Then you will be adequately prepared to face life in a broken world.”
From a Recent Sermon:
In his August 30 sermon, Rev. Larsen referred to the book An Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University by Kevin Roose. The book describes an experiment Roose undertakes, transitioning from the progressive Brown University to a large fundamentalist school – Liberty University – built by Jerry Falwell. “Here, right in my own time zone, was a culture more foreign to me than any European capital,” Roose writes. Struggling to control his penchant for cursing, he makes friends and is surprised to find guidance in an unlikely – and foreign – source as his time spent among evangelicals changes his way of looking at the world.
On the Light Side
Bob couldn’t believe it – he’d made it to the last round of his favorite game show.
“Congratulations, Bob,” said the emcee. “Answer correctly and you go home with five million dollars!
“This is a two-part question on American history,” he continued. “The second half of the question is always easier. Which part would you like first?”
Bob figured he’d play it safe. “I think I’ll try the second part of the question first.”
The emcee nodded approvingly, while the audience was silent with anticipation.
“Okay, Bob, here is your question: And in what year did it happen?”
The program "Who Are Our Leaders?" will air Sunday, September 27, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Mark 9:30-37
They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.
They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.
Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon, “Meditation,” delivered on Christian Crusaders July 14, 2002.
“. . . turn to the Scriptures. There you will learn that your Heavenly Father is the Creator. . . Realize that only after you get to heaven will the answers come, and the only way you can get to heaven is through trusting in God’s Son Jesus Christ. . . God has a word for us. He says to take some time every day to be alone with him and meditate on his Word. Then you will be adequately prepared to face life in a broken world.”
From a Recent Sermon:
In his August 30 sermon, Rev. Larsen referred to the book An Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University by Kevin Roose. The book describes an experiment Roose undertakes, transitioning from the progressive Brown University to a large fundamentalist school – Liberty University – built by Jerry Falwell. “Here, right in my own time zone, was a culture more foreign to me than any European capital,” Roose writes. Struggling to control his penchant for cursing, he makes friends and is surprised to find guidance in an unlikely – and foreign – source as his time spent among evangelicals changes his way of looking at the world.
On the Light Side
Bob couldn’t believe it – he’d made it to the last round of his favorite game show.
“Congratulations, Bob,” said the emcee. “Answer correctly and you go home with five million dollars!
“This is a two-part question on American history,” he continued. “The second half of the question is always easier. Which part would you like first?”
Bob figured he’d play it safe. “I think I’ll try the second part of the question first.”
The emcee nodded approvingly, while the audience was silent with anticipation.
“Okay, Bob, here is your question: And in what year did it happen?”
The program "Who Are Our Leaders?" will air Sunday, September 27, 2009. Visit www.christiancrusaders.org for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
The Word Makes a Difference
Every day we have to make many decisions. Often times we wish we could erase the bad ones and make decisions that are more prudent and god-pleasing. In this week’s sermon, Rev. Kramer will share the thoughts of a Psalmist and where he found insight.
Scripture: Psalm 119:97-104
Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all day long.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is always with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your decrees are my meditation. I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.
I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word.
I do not turn away from your ordinances, for you have taught me.
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Renewing Reflections
We hope Renewing Reflections will strengthen you in the week ahead. These quotes are taken from the sermon “Why Not Turn on the Light?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 15, 2002.
"God’s Word is our revelation. He has given it to us so that we do not walk in darkness. Colin Smith has said it well, “The Bible is a revelation and not an explanation. It does not answer all of our questions. In fact, at times it can make us quite confused and frustrated. But God’s Word one day will be made clear for us, and our eyes will no longer be blinded.”
On ChristianCrusaders.org
If you missed a sermon, visit Christian Crusaders’ Web site where you can read or listen to hundreds of archived sermons organized by date and topic. You can also find a daily devotion, links to Bible study tools, and a detailed description of Christian Crusaders' many new online services and how you can use them.
On the Light Side
Joe decides to go ice fishing one day, so he gets up at 2 a.m. to have an early start. When he arrives, Joe gets out his saw and begins carving away at the ice when all of a sudden he hears an echoing voice, “There are no fish under the ice there.”
Well, Joe panics, but as he looks around he sees no one. So he waits a few minutes, then decides to keep carving. Soon the voice comes back, “There are no fish under the ice there!”
“Wow!” thinks Joe to himself, “God is giving me guidance.”
So he once again starts to carve away, only this time at another part of the ice. Then he hears the bellowing voice once more: “Sir, this is the rink manager, and there are no fish under the ice anywhere.”
The program "The Word Makes a Difference" will air Sunday, September 20, 2009. Visit http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
Scripture: Psalm 119:97-104
Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all day long.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is always with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your decrees are my meditation. I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.
I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word.
I do not turn away from your ordinances, for you have taught me.
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Renewing Reflections
We hope Renewing Reflections will strengthen you in the week ahead. These quotes are taken from the sermon “Why Not Turn on the Light?“ delivered on Christian Crusaders September 15, 2002.
"God’s Word is our revelation. He has given it to us so that we do not walk in darkness. Colin Smith has said it well, “The Bible is a revelation and not an explanation. It does not answer all of our questions. In fact, at times it can make us quite confused and frustrated. But God’s Word one day will be made clear for us, and our eyes will no longer be blinded.”
On ChristianCrusaders.org
If you missed a sermon, visit Christian Crusaders’ Web site where you can read or listen to hundreds of archived sermons organized by date and topic. You can also find a daily devotion, links to Bible study tools, and a detailed description of Christian Crusaders' many new online services and how you can use them.
On the Light Side
Joe decides to go ice fishing one day, so he gets up at 2 a.m. to have an early start. When he arrives, Joe gets out his saw and begins carving away at the ice when all of a sudden he hears an echoing voice, “There are no fish under the ice there.”
Well, Joe panics, but as he looks around he sees no one. So he waits a few minutes, then decides to keep carving. Soon the voice comes back, “There are no fish under the ice there!”
“Wow!” thinks Joe to himself, “God is giving me guidance.”
So he once again starts to carve away, only this time at another part of the ice. Then he hears the bellowing voice once more: “Sir, this is the rink manager, and there are no fish under the ice anywhere.”
The program "The Word Makes a Difference" will air Sunday, September 20, 2009. Visit http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ for radio stations and times, or to listen online.
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