Witnessing can be very frustrating for Christians, especially when it seems no one is converted. If you’ve ever asked yourself some of these questions – “How do I witness?” “When is the right time to witness?” “Should I speak up or keep silent and wait for a better time?” “Am I being too overbearing?” – then this week’s sermon will speak to you.
Scripture: Acts 8:26-38
Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road – the desert road – that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”
Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.
“How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture:
“He was led like a sheep to the slaughter,
and as a lamb before the shearer is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
In his humiliation he was deprived of justice,
Who can speak of his descendants?
For his life was taken from the earth.”
The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptized?” And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.
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 A Consistent Witness delivered on Christian Crusaders March 2, 2008 by Rev. Larsen:
If Christ has met you and changed your life, even if it is only in some small way, you have a story to tell about Jesus. In your story, you tell others that Christ has forgiven your sins. You live in a personal relationship with your Savior and have the assurance that he walks with you in this life. When you die, you will receive the place he has prepared for you in heaven. This is your witness, and it must be consistent. You tell it whenever you have an opportunity at work or at worship, with Christians or with unbelievers, in all kinds of circumstances and conditions in your life. The world needs to hear your consistent Christian witness.
Seventy-Four Years of Broadcasting Biblical Truth
Following Rev. Melchert’s retirement in 1956, Rev. Bruno Schlachtenhaufen, pastor of First Lutheran Church, Waterloo, became the second Christian Crusaders radio speaker. He served faithfully in this role until 1962, when he was elected the Iowa District President of the American Lutheran Church.
Rev. Homer Larsen, senior pastor of Nazareth Lutheran Church, Cedar Falls, Iowa, succeeded Rev. Schlachtenhaufen as radio speaker in 1962, and has been preaching over the airwaves since that time. Because of the longevity of his service and his powerful messages, he has become the voice of Christian Crusaders to thousands of listeners across the country.
On the Light Side
A barber, who was a Christian, thought he should share his faith with his customers more than he had been doing lately. So the next morning, as he got out of bed, he said to himself, “Today I am going to witness to the first man who walks through my door.”
Soon after he opened his shop, his first customer came in and said, “I want a shave!” The barber said, “Sure, just sit in the seat and I’ll be with you in a moment.”
The barber went in the back and prayed a quick desperate prayer saying, “God, the first customer came in and I’m going to witness to him. So give me the wisdom to know just the right thing to say to him. Amen.”
Then, quickly, the barber came out with his razor knife in one hand and a Bible in the other. “Good morning sir. I have a question for you – Are you ready to die?”
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
When All Else Fails, Try a Little Honesty
Dishonesty is so rampant in our world that it has almost become a way of life. We learn of those, even in the highest positions of our government, who gain their position and/or wealth through fraudulent means. Dishonesty is a disease that threatens to destroy us and our nation. Is there any hope it can be changed, or will it continue until we decay from within? Listen beginning Sunday, September 19 on www.ChristianCrusaders.org as we talk about the dangers of dishonesty.
Scripture: Luke 16:1-13
Jesus told his disciples: “There was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions. So he called him in and asked him, ‘What is this I hear about you? Give an account of your management, because you cannot be manager any longer.’
“The manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do now? My master is taking away my job. I’m not strong enough to dig, and I’m ashamed to beg – I know what I’ll do so that, when I lose my job here, people will welcome me into their houses.’
“So he called in each one of his master’s debtors. He asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’
“’Eight hundred gallons of olive oil,’ he replied.
“The manager told him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it four hundred.’
“Then he asked the second, ‘And how much do you owe?’
“’A thousand bushels of wheat,’ he replied.
“He told him, ‘Take your bill and make it eight hundred.’
“The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light. I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own.
“No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.”
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 Truth Is Liberating delivered on Christian Crusaders October 27, 2002 by Rev. Larsen:
There are many mysteries in life we cannot understand. However, God has clearly revealed to us in His Word the truth about our salvation. It is so simple. I am a sinner. Christ Jesus has died for me. If I will receive Him as my Savior and Lord, he will forgive me and I will be his. I will experience this freedom. Humans can teach us this Gospel, but only through experiencing this truth can we know what freedom really is.
Seventy-Four Years of Broadcasting Biblical Truth
Christian Crusaders’ first radio worship service was broadcast over the airwaves on September 6, 1936. Rev. G. E. Melchert, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Iowa, and the Brotherhood of Trinity were concerned that a large number of the elderly and homebound were unable to enjoy the blessings of a Sunday worship service. Wanting to spread the Gospel message to the unchurched, as well, they felt called to start a radio ministry.
Seventy-four years later, this ministry continues to bring the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to those who tune in to our program on one of twenty radio stations around the country and worldwide on the Internet.
On the Light Side
In a small town were two brothers who, over the course of many years, cheated, swindled, robbed, and generally stole from everyone with whom they ever did business. The entire town and surrounding community reviled and despised these two brothers, and everyone was aware of just how disreputable and dishonest they were.
One day, one of the brothers mysteriously died. Although they had never attended church, the remaining brother went to the local pastor and offered vast sums of money if he would come to the funeral and say the appropriate words. He also offered a large bonus, but ONLY if he would – during the course of the eulogy – refer to his brother as a saint.
The pastor was troubled by the request. However, it was a very poor church desperately needed repairs.
When the parishioners heard about the pastor’s dilemma, they were curious about what he would do. The funeral began, and the church was packed. The pastor started with the usual prayers and followed the rites and traditions as required by the church’s teachings. In closing, after referring to the man in the casket, he paused and turned to face the remaining brother.
He began, “As you all know, the departed was an awful individual who robbed, cheated, swindled, and stole from every one he ever did business with. However, compared to his brother, he was a saint!”
Scripture: Luke 16:1-13
Jesus told his disciples: “There was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions. So he called him in and asked him, ‘What is this I hear about you? Give an account of your management, because you cannot be manager any longer.’
“The manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do now? My master is taking away my job. I’m not strong enough to dig, and I’m ashamed to beg – I know what I’ll do so that, when I lose my job here, people will welcome me into their houses.’
“So he called in each one of his master’s debtors. He asked the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’
“’Eight hundred gallons of olive oil,’ he replied.
“The manager told him, ‘Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it four hundred.’
“Then he asked the second, ‘And how much do you owe?’
“’A thousand bushels of wheat,’ he replied.
“He told him, ‘Take your bill and make it eight hundred.’
“The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light. I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own.
“No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.”
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 Truth Is Liberating delivered on Christian Crusaders October 27, 2002 by Rev. Larsen:
There are many mysteries in life we cannot understand. However, God has clearly revealed to us in His Word the truth about our salvation. It is so simple. I am a sinner. Christ Jesus has died for me. If I will receive Him as my Savior and Lord, he will forgive me and I will be his. I will experience this freedom. Humans can teach us this Gospel, but only through experiencing this truth can we know what freedom really is.
Seventy-Four Years of Broadcasting Biblical Truth
Christian Crusaders’ first radio worship service was broadcast over the airwaves on September 6, 1936. Rev. G. E. Melchert, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Iowa, and the Brotherhood of Trinity were concerned that a large number of the elderly and homebound were unable to enjoy the blessings of a Sunday worship service. Wanting to spread the Gospel message to the unchurched, as well, they felt called to start a radio ministry.
Seventy-four years later, this ministry continues to bring the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to those who tune in to our program on one of twenty radio stations around the country and worldwide on the Internet.
On the Light Side
In a small town were two brothers who, over the course of many years, cheated, swindled, robbed, and generally stole from everyone with whom they ever did business. The entire town and surrounding community reviled and despised these two brothers, and everyone was aware of just how disreputable and dishonest they were.
One day, one of the brothers mysteriously died. Although they had never attended church, the remaining brother went to the local pastor and offered vast sums of money if he would come to the funeral and say the appropriate words. He also offered a large bonus, but ONLY if he would – during the course of the eulogy – refer to his brother as a saint.
The pastor was troubled by the request. However, it was a very poor church desperately needed repairs.
When the parishioners heard about the pastor’s dilemma, they were curious about what he would do. The funeral began, and the church was packed. The pastor started with the usual prayers and followed the rites and traditions as required by the church’s teachings. In closing, after referring to the man in the casket, he paused and turned to face the remaining brother.
He began, “As you all know, the departed was an awful individual who robbed, cheated, swindled, and stole from every one he ever did business with. However, compared to his brother, he was a saint!”
Friday, September 10, 2010
The Power of a Story
A popular lecturer once said, “We live in a story-telling world.” His point was that, in order to reach the audience, a preacher has to use stories. Join us beginning Sunday, September 12, 2010 on http://www.christiancrusaders.org/ as we talk about how the use of story-telling can have a lasting effect on a child’s spiritual life.
Scripture: Luke 15:1-7
Now the tax collectors and “sinners” were all gathering around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
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 What Makes God Happy? delivered on Christian Crusaders September 16, 2001 by Rev. Larsen:
God’s Word tells us that those who live outside of a relationship with Jesus Christ are lost. When Jesus sees this mass of people who are lost, He describes them as “sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). Without God, only our vacillating emotions and limited intellects serve us to find solutions for the problems of life, which are far beyond human comprehension.
From 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
Some Ewephemisms
What do you call a sheep without legs?
A cloud.
What happened to the clock that fell into the sheep dip?
It lost all its ticks.
What did one sheep say to the other sheep?
After ewe.
What would you get if you crossed a goat and a sheep?
An animal that eats tin cans and gives back steel wool.
What is a sheep’s favorite newspaper?
The Wool Street Journal.
Why did the lamb call the police?
He had been fleeced.
What do you get if you cross a boa and a sheep?
A wrap-around sweater.
Scripture: Luke 15:1-7
Now the tax collectors and “sinners” were all gathering around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
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 What Makes God Happy? delivered on Christian Crusaders September 16, 2001 by Rev. Larsen:
God’s Word tells us that those who live outside of a relationship with Jesus Christ are lost. When Jesus sees this mass of people who are lost, He describes them as “sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). Without God, only our vacillating emotions and limited intellects serve us to find solutions for the problems of life, which are far beyond human comprehension.
From 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
Some Ewephemisms
What do you call a sheep without legs?
A cloud.
What happened to the clock that fell into the sheep dip?
It lost all its ticks.
What did one sheep say to the other sheep?
After ewe.
What would you get if you crossed a goat and a sheep?
An animal that eats tin cans and gives back steel wool.
What is a sheep’s favorite newspaper?
The Wool Street Journal.
Why did the lamb call the police?
He had been fleeced.
What do you get if you cross a boa and a sheep?
A wrap-around sweater.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Salvation Is Free, but Discipleship Can Cost Everything
Being part of a rapidly-growing congregation is very exciting. Larger attendance means updated programs and new buildings. However, unless the members are faithful in their spiritual life, the growth means little. In this week’s sermon we will talk about the cost of discipleship. Listen beginning Sunday, September 5, 2010 at www.ChristianCrusaders.org or one of our fine radio station. (A complete list of our radio listening family can be found at www.christiancrusaders.com/stations/asp.
Scripture: Luke 14:25-33
Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters – yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple. Any anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’
“Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Will he not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still along way off and will ask for terms of peace. In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.”
Hymns
“What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
“Jesus Calls Us”
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 Importance of the Individual delivered on Christian Crusaders April 7, 2002 by Rev. Larsen:
You are created in the image of God and have not only a body, but also a mind, will, and soul. You have sinned, but God has redeemed you in the person of Jesus Christ. As one of His redeemed children, your Father has called you to be one of His ambassadors in this world and makes His appeal to others through you. A person with this stature is the crowning work of God’s creation.
Seventy-Four Years of Broadcasting Biblical Truth
Christian Crusaders’ first radio worship service was broadcast over the airwaves on September 6, 1936. Rev. G. E. Melchert, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Iowa, and the Brotherhood of Trinity were concerned that a large number of the elderly and homebound were unable to enjoy the blessings of a Sunday worship service. Wanting to spread the Gospel message to the unchurched, as well, they felt called to start a radio ministry.
Seventy-four years later, this ministry continues to bring the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to those who tune in to our program on one of twenty radio stations around the country and worldwide on the Internet.
On the Light Side
Crossing the Road
Why did the frogs cross the road?
To get a croak-a-cola.
Why did the pigs cross the road with their laundry?
They wanted to do their hogwash.
Why did the rabbit cross the road?
To get to the hopping mall.
Why did the sheep cross the road?
He needed to go to the baa baa shop.
Why did the turtle cross the road?
To get to the shell station.
We Want to Hear From You
This e-mail is designed to give you information about the upcoming broadcast that is not available anywhere else. The weekly letter also gives us a chance to share news about our site and our ministry. We’d love to hear any suggestions you might have for ways we can improve our site and e-newsletter.
Christian Crusaders is a radio and Internet ministry designed to serve the needs of those who are unable to attend church services. This program is available online in audio and printed forms at www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
Scripture: Luke 14:25-33
Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters – yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple. Any anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’
“Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Will he not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still along way off and will ask for terms of peace. In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.”
Hymns
“What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
“Jesus Calls Us”
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 Importance of the Individual delivered on Christian Crusaders April 7, 2002 by Rev. Larsen:
You are created in the image of God and have not only a body, but also a mind, will, and soul. You have sinned, but God has redeemed you in the person of Jesus Christ. As one of His redeemed children, your Father has called you to be one of His ambassadors in this world and makes His appeal to others through you. A person with this stature is the crowning work of God’s creation.
Seventy-Four Years of Broadcasting Biblical Truth
Christian Crusaders’ first radio worship service was broadcast over the airwaves on September 6, 1936. Rev. G. E. Melchert, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Iowa, and the Brotherhood of Trinity were concerned that a large number of the elderly and homebound were unable to enjoy the blessings of a Sunday worship service. Wanting to spread the Gospel message to the unchurched, as well, they felt called to start a radio ministry.
Seventy-four years later, this ministry continues to bring the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to those who tune in to our program on one of twenty radio stations around the country and worldwide on the Internet.
On the Light Side
Crossing the Road
Why did the frogs cross the road?
To get a croak-a-cola.
Why did the pigs cross the road with their laundry?
They wanted to do their hogwash.
Why did the rabbit cross the road?
To get to the hopping mall.
Why did the sheep cross the road?
He needed to go to the baa baa shop.
Why did the turtle cross the road?
To get to the shell station.
We Want to Hear From You
This e-mail is designed to give you information about the upcoming broadcast that is not available anywhere else. The weekly letter also gives us a chance to share news about our site and our ministry. We’d love to hear any suggestions you might have for ways we can improve our site and e-newsletter.
Christian Crusaders is a radio and Internet ministry designed to serve the needs of those who are unable to attend church services. This program is available online in audio and printed forms at www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
Monday, August 23, 2010
God Is . . . My Help
Life can sometimes take us on some painful twists and turns. Often those who are closest to us can give us the greatest pain. So where do we turn during those times? This week we will study a song from the Bible written by a brokenhearted father. Learn his story and where he turned for help in the midst of his troubles.
Scripture: Psalm 3
O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me; many are saying to me, “There is no help for you in God.”
But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head. I cry aloud to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy hill.
I lie down and sleep; I wake again, for the Lord sustains me. I am not afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.
Rise up, O Lord! Deliver me, O my God! For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked. Deliverance belongs to the Lord; may your blessing be on your people!
Hymns
“This Is My Father’s World”
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
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 Lord, I'm Struggling With the Blues delivered on Christian Crusaders December 14, 2008 by Rev. Kramer:
God does his best work in the darkness of caves. Much of (Elijah’s) story takes place in a cave in the side of a mountain. This isn’t the only cave story in Scripture: the Savior was laid in another cave, and on the third day God rolled away the stone and raised him up. God does his best work in caves! Are you living in a cave these days – experiencing the blues – like Elijah did? You don’t have to sit alone in the darkness ever again. Call on him, open his Word, and let a still, small voice speak to you. You are not alone. God is with us, just as he was with Elijah.
Sermons Podcasts now Available
Christian Crusaders sermons are now available as podcasts. Log onto the website and scroll to the bottom of the homepage, where you'll find a “Podcast Feed” icon. Podcasts can also be accessed by logging onto www.itunes.com and searching for “Christian Crusaders.” Podcast files can be downloaded directly to your iPod, where you can listen to them at your convenience and wherever you may be – while walking, sitting in your backyard, or running errands.
On the Light Side
Q: What did the kangaroo say when she found her baby missing?
A: Help! My pocket’s been picked!
Two atoms are talking:
“Help, somebody has stolen one of my electrons!”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, I’m positive!”
Q: What do you call a bunch of guys who break into a music store and help themselves to the stringed instruments?
A: Luters.
Q: What is lemonade?
A: It’s when you help a little old lemon across the street.
We Want to Hear From You
This e-mail is designed to give you information about the upcoming broadcast that is not available anywhere else. The weekly letter also gives us a chance to share news about our site and our ministry. We’d love to hear any suggestions you might have for ways we can improve our site and e-newsletter.
Christian Crusaders is a radio and Internet ministry designed to serve the needs of those who are unable to attend church services. This program is available online in audio and printed forms at www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
Scripture: Psalm 3
O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me; many are saying to me, “There is no help for you in God.”
But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head. I cry aloud to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy hill.
I lie down and sleep; I wake again, for the Lord sustains me. I am not afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.
Rise up, O Lord! Deliver me, O my God! For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked. Deliverance belongs to the Lord; may your blessing be on your people!
Hymns
“This Is My Father’s World”
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
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 Lord, I'm Struggling With the Blues delivered on Christian Crusaders December 14, 2008 by Rev. Kramer:
God does his best work in the darkness of caves. Much of (Elijah’s) story takes place in a cave in the side of a mountain. This isn’t the only cave story in Scripture: the Savior was laid in another cave, and on the third day God rolled away the stone and raised him up. God does his best work in caves! Are you living in a cave these days – experiencing the blues – like Elijah did? You don’t have to sit alone in the darkness ever again. Call on him, open his Word, and let a still, small voice speak to you. You are not alone. God is with us, just as he was with Elijah.
Sermons Podcasts now Available
Christian Crusaders sermons are now available as podcasts. Log onto the website and scroll to the bottom of the homepage, where you'll find a “Podcast Feed” icon. Podcasts can also be accessed by logging onto www.itunes.com and searching for “Christian Crusaders.” Podcast files can be downloaded directly to your iPod, where you can listen to them at your convenience and wherever you may be – while walking, sitting in your backyard, or running errands.
On the Light Side
Q: What did the kangaroo say when she found her baby missing?
A: Help! My pocket’s been picked!
Two atoms are talking:
“Help, somebody has stolen one of my electrons!”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, I’m positive!”
Q: What do you call a bunch of guys who break into a music store and help themselves to the stringed instruments?
A: Luters.
Q: What is lemonade?
A: It’s when you help a little old lemon across the street.
We Want to Hear From You
This e-mail is designed to give you information about the upcoming broadcast that is not available anywhere else. The weekly letter also gives us a chance to share news about our site and our ministry. We’d love to hear any suggestions you might have for ways we can improve our site and e-newsletter.
Christian Crusaders is a radio and Internet ministry designed to serve the needs of those who are unable to attend church services. This program is available online in audio and printed forms at www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
The Value of a Human Being
The Christian faith has taught us in western civilization the value of the human being. If we lose the power of this teaching, we see how cheap life really is. Examples of how insignificant people can be in the minds of those outside of Christ are slavery, the Holocaust, and terrorism. Join us this week as we learn about the importance Jesus placed on the human being.
Scripture Reference: Luke 13:10-17
On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.
Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue ruler said to the people, “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.”
The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath days from what bound her?”
When he said this, all his opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing.
Hymns
“We Praise You, O God”
“No One Ever Cared for Me Like Jesus”
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 Importance of the Individual delivered on Christian Crusaders April 7, 2002 by Rev. Larsen:
You are created in the image of God and have not only a body, but a mind, will, and soul. You have sinned, but God has redeemed you in the person of Jesus Christ. As one of His redeemed children, your Father has called you to be one of His ambassadors in this world and makes His appeal to others through you. A person with this stature is the crowning work of God’s creation.
The Crusader Newsletter
The newest issue of Christian Crusaders’ quarterly newsletter, The Crusader, will be available soon. Call us at 1-888-693-2484 or email us at cc@naz.org to join our mailing list and receive this publication, where you can read a special feature article by Rev. Larsen, as well as thoughts on faith from other members of our staff. The theme of this issue is on doubts.
On the Lite Side
What kind of jokes do vegetables like best?
Corny ones, of course!
On which side does a leopard have the most spots?
The outside.
Where do cows go on a Saturday night?
To the mooooovies.
Why do baby pigs eat so much?
They want to make hogs out of themselves.
What can you wear anytime that never goes out of style?
A smile.
Please join us beginning Sunday, August 22, 2010 to hear this exciting message on www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
Scripture Reference: Luke 13:10-17
On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.
Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue ruler said to the people, “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.”
The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath days from what bound her?”
When he said this, all his opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing.
Hymns
“We Praise You, O God”
“No One Ever Cared for Me Like Jesus”
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 Importance of the Individual delivered on Christian Crusaders April 7, 2002 by Rev. Larsen:
You are created in the image of God and have not only a body, but a mind, will, and soul. You have sinned, but God has redeemed you in the person of Jesus Christ. As one of His redeemed children, your Father has called you to be one of His ambassadors in this world and makes His appeal to others through you. A person with this stature is the crowning work of God’s creation.
The Crusader Newsletter
The newest issue of Christian Crusaders’ quarterly newsletter, The Crusader, will be available soon. Call us at 1-888-693-2484 or email us at cc@naz.org to join our mailing list and receive this publication, where you can read a special feature article by Rev. Larsen, as well as thoughts on faith from other members of our staff. The theme of this issue is on doubts.
On the Lite Side
What kind of jokes do vegetables like best?
Corny ones, of course!
On which side does a leopard have the most spots?
The outside.
Where do cows go on a Saturday night?
To the mooooovies.
Why do baby pigs eat so much?
They want to make hogs out of themselves.
What can you wear anytime that never goes out of style?
A smile.
Please join us beginning Sunday, August 22, 2010 to hear this exciting message on www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Making Christ Fit
Jesus described himself as the Good Shepherd, willing to give up his life for us, his flock. However, he also tells us that he came to bring fire on earth and division in a family. In this week’s sermon we will try to fit these words into a lifestyle designed to be positive and comforting.
Scripture: Luke 12:49-56
“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”
He said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain, and it does. And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?”
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 Living a Full Life delivered on Christian Crusaders February 9, 2007 by Rev. Larsen:
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.
Sermons on YouTube Now Available
Log onto www.youtube.com, a free video-sharing Web site, where you can now view four full-length sermons on Christ’s death and resurrection by Rev. Larsen. Simply type “Rev. Larsen, Christian Crusaders” into the search box to find these sermon videos. You can also access YouTube videos on our homepage at www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
On the Light Side
At a church meeting a very wealthy man rose to tell the rest of those present about his Christian faith.
“I’m a millionaire,” he said, “and I attribute it all to the rich blessings of God in my life. I remember that turning point in my faith. I had just earned my first dollar and I went to a church meeting that night. The speaker was a missionary who told about his work. I knew that I only had a dollar bill and had to either give it all to God's work or nothing at all. So at that moment I decided to give my whole dollar to God. I believe that God blessed that decision, and that is why I am a rich man today.”
He finished and there was an awed silence at his testimony as he moved toward his seat. As he sat down a little old lady sitting in the same pew leaned over and said to him: “I dare you to do it again.”
To listen to this sermon, link to our Web site beginning Sunday, August 15:
www.ChristianCrusaders.org
Scripture: Luke 12:49-56
“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”
He said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain, and it does. And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?”
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 Living a Full Life delivered on Christian Crusaders February 9, 2007 by Rev. Larsen:
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.
Sermons on YouTube Now Available
Log onto www.youtube.com, a free video-sharing Web site, where you can now view four full-length sermons on Christ’s death and resurrection by Rev. Larsen. Simply type “Rev. Larsen, Christian Crusaders” into the search box to find these sermon videos. You can also access YouTube videos on our homepage at www.ChristianCrusaders.org.
On the Light Side
At a church meeting a very wealthy man rose to tell the rest of those present about his Christian faith.
“I’m a millionaire,” he said, “and I attribute it all to the rich blessings of God in my life. I remember that turning point in my faith. I had just earned my first dollar and I went to a church meeting that night. The speaker was a missionary who told about his work. I knew that I only had a dollar bill and had to either give it all to God's work or nothing at all. So at that moment I decided to give my whole dollar to God. I believe that God blessed that decision, and that is why I am a rich man today.”
He finished and there was an awed silence at his testimony as he moved toward his seat. As he sat down a little old lady sitting in the same pew leaned over and said to him: “I dare you to do it again.”
To listen to this sermon, link to our Web site beginning Sunday, August 15:
www.ChristianCrusaders.org
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