(Editor's Note: In our New & Views column we quote from many different sources. Please understand that this does not necessarily mean that we approve of all of the publications from which we quote. We will give the name of the source in the first quote and thereafter we will give the abbreviation of that name.)
Colorado Legislators Oppose Opening Prayer-"A small but growing group of state representatives is questioning the practice of opening each session of the Colorado House with a prayer." (Religion, 1/26/01) Twelve of the 65 House members tried to stop the short invocation at the start of the day. Be sure this small group will insist on this practice discontinuing. Remember the wicked walk on every side when the vilest of men are exalted. (Psalm 12:8) -(W. W. Mosley, hereafter WWM)
More On Public School & Religion-Debates began in the North Dakota Legislature approving proposals for putting voluntary prayer and the Ten Commandments back in the public schools. The N.D. House approved legislation that permits school boards to allow voluntary classroom prayers and Pledge of Allegiance, led either by a teacher or student, by a vote of 53- 44. (Freedom Forum, 2/6/01) The N.D. Senate members voted 44-5 to endorse a bill that allows schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms as part of an exhibit. This was a common practice during WWII. Even before this in the `30s teachers often started the day with a prayer with the students in their place. This is the reason our nation was not defeated in WWII. Our nation cannot win another World War or any war without God. -WWM
Rapper Faces Drug Rap-It should be no surprise that a creature of sin & debauchery such as rap star Eminem (pronounced M `n M) would be charged with drug use. Upon arrival in London recently he was arrested on drug charges. (Drudge Report, 2/9/01) We have repeatedly warned Christian parents about the effect of rap & rock music on their children. The vulgar mouthed, scraggly haired, body pierced, devil owned, human reject called Eminem has many of America's youth mesmerized. Why does such vulgarity have to wait until it arrives in London to be arrested? One couple left saying they thought it was so terrible that " . . . Brooklyn would have to grow up in a world where Eminem was a star." Although I heartily agree with them, why would they take their child there and what were they expecting? Someone will likely email me that it is the 21st Century. I am aware of that and also know what time it is. "And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed." -WWM
JWs And Child Molestation-Jehovah's Witnesses' practice of covering up or failing to properly investigate child molestation cases was reported in Christianity Today. (TVC, 02/02/01) Author Corrie Cutrer's interview of Bill Bowen, a former elder in a Kentucky Kingdom Hall, stated his church was turning a blind eye to child molestation. Traditional Values Coalition reported Bowen saying, "I discovered how corrupt this organization was in terms of hurting children." According to JW's guidelines, their followers must find two or three eyewitnesses before an accusation can be made, otherwise the allegation must be dropped. This is dreadfully horrible, yet the eternal destruction of their children's souls is more so. -WWM
Botched Abortion-Pro-Life Infonet reported in late January that a Phoenix woman was allowed to bleed to death in the A-Z Women's Center abortion clinic in 1998. (TVC, 2/2/01) The victim begged for help as blood collected under her body after the abortion. If she had had this much concern for her child, neither she nor her baby would have suffered death at this time. This is proof that abortion is not as safe as the pro-abortion crowd would have us believe. It's certainly not pleasing to God.- WWM
Commodities, Communion, & Church-Associated Grocers are making it easy for their workers to worship while on the job. This very likely removes some of the guilt of genuine believers for missing their regular church services. "Ricky Scott sat through a short religious service, which included the taking of communion, on Sunday and less that five minutes later he was back at work." (The Advocate Online, 1/13/01) Dozens more co-workers sat through the same service in a packed room at Associate Grocer's distribution center. Fast food, fast fellowship, fast finishing. Sounds much like regular services at too many churches today.-WWM
Baptist Association & Women Preachers-"Several women have crashed through what some call the stained glass ceiling and become ordained ministers in the Fourth District Baptist Asso." [Louisiana] (TAO, 1/20/01) This predominantly black Baptist Asso. claims the ordination of women will cease until this becomes an "official policy that includes the ordination of women," which will come later this year. They claim that fewer than 20 women "head SBC churches." In fact, the SBC has ordained thousands of women. The association's president "has assigned a doctrinal committee to study what Scriptures outline about the ordination of women." If these pastors have studied and taught the Scriptures they should already know the qualification of a pastor does not include women. Would Jesus' statement in Matt. 22:29 apply here? -WWM
Church Attendance Diminishing-Barn Research Group Ltd.'s survey of Christian churches has revealed a decrease in church attendance. Of adults who are 55 years old or older, 51 percent had attended church in the past week. The numbers dropped to 28 percent when looking at adults ages 18 to 24. (TAO, 1/27/01) Social and political beliefs mark a difference in church attendance. People who hold conservative beliefs are twice as likely to attend church as adults who describe themselves as liberal (53 % vs. 28%). If this is true, there should be as wide a spread in the choice of conservative leaders vs. liberal leaders. -WWM
UFMCC Driving Force For Inclusive Christian Spirituality?-A national leader of the pro-homosexual Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches has been elected president of the 1.5 million-member California Council of Churches (CCC). (Baptist Press, 2/13/01) UFMCC has become the driving force in CA promoting the acceptance of the gay/lesbian lifestyle and so-called rights. Although the liberal NCC has twice denied UFMCC membership, Gwynne Guibord of UFMCC has been elected president of the CCC. She also has spoken at the NCC at its annual meetings. Homosexual promoting religious organizations at present may be confined to ultra-liberal, ecumenical groups, but beware of their ambition to saturate America with their God defying debauchery. The "Community Church" title has infected almost every denomination. Denominational designations have been dropped so as not to be so offensive. Even Baptist churches have fallen into this numbers trapping profession. Saddleback Community Church in CA (SBC), under founder Rick Warren's leadership has grown upward of 15,000 members. How many of the members know the difference between their church and those in the UFMCC? A name does make a difference and the Baptist name should identify with New Testament church doctrine of separation from sin. Don't drop or defile it. -WWM
ABA & Homosexual Churches-Atlanta Baptist Association (SBC) approved two homosexual-affirming churches in their ranks. Homosexual activists across the nation heralded this action. (Baptist Press, 2/15/01) Conservative churches in the ABA promise to withdraw from the association if this action is not reversed. At least one church has already voted to sever ties with the Atlanta Association. Why will any church remain in any local church governing association for any reason? The local church has the only and final authority from heaven. An independent local church answers only to its Head, the Lord Jesus Christ. -WWM
Vermont Sued Over Criminalizing Child Pornography-Vermont passed a law that criminalizes the possession of child pornography. The VA chapter of the ACLU has brought a lawsuit against the state contending that the law is "a broad censorship law that imposes severe content-based restrictions on the availability, display and dissemination of constitutionally- protected speech." (TVC, 2/16/01) The ACLU maintains that photos, including photos of child abuse, are protected by the U.S. Constitution. The American Civil Liberties Union has nothing about it that resembles America, nor that is civil. It only provides liberty for those seeking sinful practices and only unionizes the depraved and their victims. For all such there is a cutting off day awaiting. "And he shall bring upon them their own iniquity, and shall cut them off in their own wickedness; yea, the LORD our God shall cut them off." (Psa.94:23) What a weight of sin there will be upon those who misrepresent truth. ". . . And the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him." (Ezek. 18:20c)
Jesse Jackson The Victim?-One more time Jesse makes the news. After being accused of yet another affair, Jackson told the Chicago Sun-Times, "They seem to have a bounty on my head." He claimed he was a victim of a conservative conspiracy to destroy him. (NewsMax Wire, 2/17/01) "Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?" would be an appropriate reminder here. (Prov. 6:27) Jackson's Rainbow/PUSH general counsel Janice Mathis said, "The truth has not been told," which may be better for the "Rev". Jackson is recognized as a Baptist preacher so he must be a member of a Baptist church. His church will take no more action against him that Emmanuel Baptist Church did against Pres. Clinton and his adulterous act. -WWM
Anti-Christian Film Endorsed By Jackson-"Chocolat," an anti-Christian film has been nominated for an Oscar. It also has won the endorsement of "Rev." Jesse Jackson and the Anti- Defamation League. The latter is involved in defending the occult Wiccan religion. (TVC, 2/16/01) Makes one wonder if Jackson would feel at home in that religion. The film is a story of a pagan moving with her daughter into a self-righteous Catholic community. (TVC) Guess who is the culprit? Christianity! And paganism is the victim. Hollywood's aim is anti-God, anti- Christianity, anti-so-called right-wing. Jesse joins High-rise Hillary in claiming a right-wing conspiracy against her and Bill. Hillary should have been more concerned about the West Wing. -WWM
Legal Protection For The Unborn-The Unborn Victims of Violence Act, which would criminalize violence resulting in injury or death to an unborn child, was reintroduced 2/7/01. The House of Rep. approved the legislation last year. Though it did not reach Pres. Clinton's desk, advisers urged him to veto the bill when and if it did. (Baptist Press, 2/8/01) God has already passed an unrevocable law against such activity. A law that even the Clinton administration and advisers could not override. (Exo. 21:22,23) If this law is passed and enforced it would close every abortion clinic (clinic is a misnomer) in America . -WWM
Focus On The Family Donations-Dr. James Dobson's Focus On The Family has ran into financial woes. With a $135 million budget, funds sometimes are heavily burdened. Recent cutbacks in the ministry have been averted by a response to Dr. Dobson's plea for help. By the end of January, the ministry had made up a $500,000 deficit. (Dallas Morning News, 2/10/01) Dobson and Chuck Colson of Prison Fellowship, met briefly with the Pope when they took part in a conference at the Vatican Nov. 27-29. (Relig. Today, 12/13/00) Both are leaders in evangelical ranks. I wonder just how many local church tithes and offerings help make up the above deficit. Ecumenism doesn't mind where it gets its funds, even at the expense of the Lord's church. Seems strange that this evangelical pair would be allowed to have a meeting with the head of a religious consortium that doesn't want to be evangelized. Likely they did not mention to the Pope his need of salvation. -WWM
U2's Influence On Christianity-Does the U2 rock `n' roll band have any influence on Christianity? Not on true Christianity, because those true to Christ will not listen to such non- intelligible lyrics to say nothing of the ear deafening rock beat. In 1987 they claimed they " . . . were getting involved in reading books, the Big Book, . . .," likely referring to the Bible. The band members claim "they have always taken pains to separate the words `Christian' and `religion.'" Adding: "All religion seems to do is divide," said one. "I am really interested and influenced by the spiritual side of Christianity, rather than the legislative side, the rules and regulations." (Dallas Morn. News, 2/10/01) Their doctrine is as confusing as their lyrics. And these kind of people and this kind of music are not a bad influence on our youth? People line up to get tickets to this malarkey, saying it is uplifting, that wouldn't sit still if a worthy Baptist pastor passed the 12:00 PM mark on Sunday. Remove God from all national events and this is what you get. -WWM
Homosexuals & Commitment Vows-Strange things are happening. Gay/lesbian live-ins are contending for their right to marry and some men and women live together cheering a society that seems to ignore their adulterous lifestyle. Gay/lesbian couples want their rights to get legally(?) married, while adulterous man/woman relationships want married status benefits outside the bond of marriage. Religious leaders in Mayor Daley's Chicago have set aside Feb. 12 as "Freedom to Marry Day . . . seeking to end that inequity" against the gay/lesbian community. The mayor has his own "liaison to the lesbian & gay community." (Chicago PR, 2/7/01) Grace Baptist(?) Church is listed among those supporting this event. " . . . National Freedom to Marry Day, [includes] rallies in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Seattle, Boston, and Minneapolis." Hear this solemn warning: "The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God." (Psa. 9:17) Is sodomy wicked? Read God's inspired comment in Gen. 19:1-7. -WWM
The Founding Fathers & Religion-"Of all the dispositions which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who would labor to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness.... The mere Politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and cherish them." "Let it simply be asked, `Where is the security for prosperity, for reputation, for life; if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in the Courts of Justice?'" --George Washington (Federalist, 2/20/01) Seems our founding fathers differed in their opinion of the need for Christian values in America than some present politicians. -WWM
From Fast-Foods To Cell-Phones-Innovative minds are working overtime seeking means to draw crowds and money. First Congregational Church of Newbury, VT having fallen on difficult times came up with this idea. Cell-phone companies are searching for placement of their towers . . . why not in our church steeple? Sure enough their steeple now holds two antennas installed about a year ago by Cellular One. The annual rental income is greatly appreciated. (LAJ, 1/6/01) Brentwood Baptist Church in Houston, TX plans to open a McDonald's fast food on their facilities. (LAJ,2/6/01) From financial woes to fleshly desires can all be satisfied at church. Tithes and offerings get a lift from calling and catering. What is left for the Holy Spirit to do? Read the Book of Acts and the Revelation for the rest of the story! -WWM
`Road to Redemption' Price Tag-The Billy Graham Evangelistic Asso. has financed the production of its "new Christian comedy film, `Road to Redemption.'" It comes at the cost of $2.2 million. "Left Behind," a recent movie based on a book by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins, has also been released. (Kansas City Star, 2/9/01) It may soon be difficult when a young couple asks permission to attend the movies (if they do ask) the parent may have to ask where. Since movie theaters seem to draw a larger crowd than regular church services many churches have turned, and more will, to the movie industry to enhance their growth. I fear the spiritual cost will far exceed $2.2 million when time gives way to eternity. -WWM
BU's Most Effective Preacher List-Barbara Brown Taylor, the Butman Prof. of Religion and Philosophy at Piedmont College, Demorest, GA spoke at the Nazarene Theological Seminary and Chapman Memorial Chapel. She is an author, lecturer and recipient of many honors. Baylor University's 1996 survey listed her as "one of the 12 most effective preachers in the English-speaking world." (KCS, 2/9/01) This Baptist University was chartered in 1845 by the republic of Texas and affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state and the largest Baptist University in the world. Their web-site claims they have remained "true to their heritage." I wonder how the late 1800's and early 1900's would feel about this 1996 survey assessment? -WWM
New Position In The Public School-The Madison, WI School Board voted unanimously to hire a full-time advocate for homosexual and lesbian students in their school system. Board members voted 7-0 in support of the position after hearing testimony from roughly 50 or so on both sides of the issue including Sol-Kelley Jones, 14, the middle school daughter of Madison therapist Sunshine Jones and her partner JoAnn Kell, according to CNSNews.com. (Baptist Press, 2/27/01) The administration is "encouraged to work closely with GLBTO (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning) community in developing the job description." One proponent of the position made this statement: "Tonight we can go home with hope in our hearts." True hope can only come through Christ. The position will obviously be financed by tax dollars that at one time was used only for the three Rs. The ACLU would ride in with guns a blazing if some first grade teacher should teach, "`A' is for Adam, the first man. `B' is for Bible, the Word of God." It seems taxation on pari-mutuel betting is not the only sin tax in Madison, WI. Coming soon! -WWM
Homosexual Mel White's Preaching Itinerary-Mel White, 61, is a gay minister ordained in the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches. He has gone from ghost writer for evangelists such as Jerry Falwell, Billy Graham, and Pat Robertson, to crossing the nation, staging sit-ins and getting arrested, to increase churches' acceptance of homosexuals. He was found one morning in CA at a seaside taco stand holding a beer and complaining about his health. (LA Times, 2/17/01) He protest what he believes are the anti-gay policies of Baptists, and others. Nothing mentioned about how he disagrees with God's Word. White has made the trip from the "religious right" to "gay rights." He was invited to speak on campus at Texas Tech Univ. in Oct. `97. He also preached at Lubbock's St. John's UMC the following Sunday morning. His weekend trip to Lubbock likely gained him more than his monthly salary of $3,000 per month as director of Soulforce. Colleges usually pay him $2,100 per speech. White has another argument for acceptance of his un-biblical life-style. Jesse Jackson has hardly received a slap on the wrist by some Baptist leaders for his adulterous conduct. How does a holy God feel about such activity? Israel's lust brought serious consequences. Israel " . . . lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul." (Psa. 106:14,15) -WWM
Gay Union Right's Vote-The 3.6 million-member Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) votes on a plan to ban same-sex ceremonies. Early in the vote tallying, 40 presbyteries voted against and 16 for. In 1997, 56.7% voted to bar actively homosexual clergy and lay officers. Some who voted then for the ban are now against it. (LA Times, 2/3/01) The article reported passage of the ban requires approval from 87 of 173 presbyteries across the nation through April. What a sad condition overshadows our nation. Awaken! Read on. -WWM
Christian School Gay Alumni `Coming Out'-Gay alumni who kept their sexuality hidden in their years at Oral Roberts University plan a "coming out" at the small Christian school in Tulsa, Okla., during this weekend's homecoming celebrations. (LA Times, 2/18/01) I am not even close to being in agreement with ORU in any area, but this must be a heartache even to them. The proverb cited in 1 Sam. 24:13 is personified here: "Wickedness proceedeth from the wicked." Let David's prayer be ours: "Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins." (Psa. 7:9)