Deliver Detroit

Pardon Me, Let Me Sweep Up That Mess.

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:50:00 +0000

Posts here of late have been misunderstood very easily and the things said regarding specific topics often strike raw nerves with some. It is also easily seen as being too general in statement. I would implore with any readers who believe this to be so, to please consider some things. Is the post specific to a certain individual, situation, or dilemma? Or is the post geared toward approaching an issue that is vast in it's reach, wide in it's occurrence, and problematic for the Church overall? These two questions would do well when you read what I post. The reason it sounds broad, is because it is. If you localize something that is not intended to be localized it causes one to take issue and personal resentment toward what is said. Then it sounds accusatory and one may feel wronged or offended by it. If it becomes a matter of personal conviction and you feel you are being attacked by the sentiment or information written about, I would ask you to read the post and see if it includes your name in there. If it does not, your conviction is not my responsibility. However, if there is conviction, then you should examine yourself against the Holy Scriptures and place faith in Christ to lead in your decision making regarding that conviction.

If I have caused offense to any individual, I humbly ask forgiveness. If I have created a stumbling block for anyone, I also ask forgiveness in that. But, if you are offended because you have personalized what was not intended for you, let me remind you that your expectations are not my responsibility. The Lord's are.

Strip Club, Or Church, You Decide!

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0000

(Ecc 7:25-26) I directed my mind to know, to investigate and to seek wisdom and an explanation, and to know the evil of folly and the foolishness of madness. And I discovered more bitter than death the woman whose heart is snares and nets, whose hands are chains. One who is pleasing to God will escape from her, but the sinner will be captured by her.

Should you avoid going to the public swimming pool, beaches, or strip clubs for that matter, for the sake of guarding and covenanting with your eyes, to prevent yourself from sin (Jas 4:7-8)? If these places are obvious stumbling blocks to an individual (man) it may be safe to say that you should avoid them as if they were the stench of death themselves (Rom 6:23). To maintain an accordance and attempt of walking in the righteousness of the Spirit and pursuing the holiness given of Christ Jesus would suggest so wouldn't it (Rom 12:2)?

So if the church is resembling the above description, is it the church? If it is, is it not due rebuke and correction? Lastly, should you treat it as you would the aforementioned stumbling blocks, would not it be the same sin, leading to the same outcome, and tarnish the same name professed by your mouth and the mouths of the very ones who violate His holy word?

You tell me. Because I'm either completely disgusted, disillusioned, and angry, or I am completely confused and totally misunderstanding the scriptures.

Daily Help from Charles H. Spurgeon - August 16th

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 13:02:00 +0000

Question: How is that those who live holy lives do it with such joy?

Answer:

The lives of some of God's people fill us with holy astonishment. Strange and marvelous are the ways which God used in their case to find his own. Blessed be his name, he never relinquishes the search until the chosen are sought ought effectually. They are not a people sought to-day and cast away to-morrow. Almightiness and wisdom combined will make no failures; they shall be called "Sought out!" That any should be sought out, is matchless grace, but that we should be sought out is grace beyond degree! We can find no reason for it but God's own sovereign love, and can only lift up out heart in wonder, and praise the Lord that this day we wear the name of "Sought out."

-Charles H. Spurgeon

You and Your Daughter are Prostitutes...Of The Flesh (Pt.2)

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0000

continuing from yesterday's post...

Undoubtedly there could be a lack of understanding and a need for discipleship in the truth and exemplary duty of modesty in a culture where modesty has been dismissed as a cultural stage we have progressed out of. But also, there is an innate evil in the heart of sinners and the unregenerate that seeks to sow seeds in amongst the wheat that spring forth tares choking out life and killing anything it comes near. John 3:11, the message we heard from the beginning is that we love one another. This love is in accordance with our Lord's will, not to knock each other down by flaunting the flesh that causes temptation and sin. Romans 5:5, The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts, this will relfect in our actions toward others. I ask this, is showing off an acreage of cleavage showing love toward a brother who struggles with lust? Are you so self-conscious that you have to find gratification in luring all the wrong attention you can toward yourself?

It's simply stated for believers in 1 Thessalonians 4:7-9, we shouldn't have to be informed or written to that we are to love one another. Loving one another not only means that we are not to cause a brother to stumble, it is better to go without a pleasure or behavior than to cause a brother to stumble, especially in lieu of liberty and purity (1 Co 8:13). Peter (2 Peter 1:4-7) admonishes us to show evidence of our fruit through self-control, persevearance, godliness, kindness, and love! But if you are lacking in this (2 Peter 1:9) you are blind, shortsighted, in violation of the covenant promises of God through Christ Jesus.

So to end this post now, as It's taken much time to get to this point, it will take much time to undo it, or seek to make it better. As the letter of 1 Peter 3:5, I Timothy 2:9, and the admonition from all of scripture to have a testimony embodied in your very being and the light of Christ being reflected in your life clearly, unmistakingly, undoubtedly, and powerfully (Mat 5:15, Luk 8:16, Luk 11:33).

I guess my point is the lack of those whom are repulsed enough of the enemies attack on the culture is truly showing. I pray that if you have been redeemed of God that you get up, get up NOW and begin participating in the Great Commission given us of Christ Jesus. Go, tell others that they may hear, that they may be saved, and that some may come to know him...

Galatians 6:1-5 teaches a very important lesson for the teachers, elders, evangelists, and men in the body of believers. This lesson is a calling out to those who care about sin in the face of a righteous God. It's an admonition and rebuke to the leaders in the body to remember the covenant made with the Father in redemption and rebuke, correct, and teach those who sin openly, and amongst us. It is also an encouragement to help them learn the truth of the word that will show them a more righteous way in Christ who gives us life, and power over sin through the Holy Spirit. In Galatians 6:10 Paul goes on to teach us that we must first do good to all people (love), and especially to those who are of the household of faith (emphasis mine). Would not doing good to the brethren include teaching them a better way while also eradicating through discipline the problem of sin in the body of believers?

...Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
(Eph 4:17-19)

You and Your Daughter are Prostitutes...Of The Flesh (Pt.1)

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 01:17:00 +0000

It is an ever growing trend that many are well aware of. This trend not only is openly accepted and widely encouraged, but it is also fiercely lethal and increasingly growing out of control. What we do not know is that this poison that is deadly in all it's capacities also has the ability to masquerade and disguise itself. What could something so inherently fatal disguise itself as? I'll tell you what it's facade is. It's facade is known as a social norm.

Social norms are rules that are socially enforced. This enforcement usually occurs when society's general consensus and opinion determine that something is socially acceptable and passes as a "norm". These norms often result in a higher and more lethal strain of this poison when it develops itself into what is known as a more (morr-ay). A more derives from a socially practiced custom instead of a culture's laws or "commandments".

Now that you know what it is that I am discussing here let me answer your question of what it is being labeled. While it would be interesting to go into an exhaustive dissertation on the many things that conflict with my worldview in this area of discussion, I won't. I believe I just might save that for a school assignment. Nonetheless, the main point of concern I would like to address is the young female population (and their parents).

I will save you the runaround tail-chasing blame game that we tend to place on the media and other popular paparazzi influences (I'm not saying they are exempt) and go directly to my personal experience. In Romans 7:13, Paul the Apostle noted in that knowledge of sin made sin exceedingly sinful. This by knowledge of the commandments would cause one much guilt for committing such deeds. While the war wages on and the light of Christ reflects in the soul of the redeemed, the enemy shores up his strongholds with the deterioration of self-respect and value. The nation's tolerance and consumption of smut, vulgarity, pornography, and half-naked celebutants is setting a bad example. If you happen to be a member of the male sex you can't help but notice that we may as well equip ourselves with blinders and a cane, hoping someone will help us cross the street.

The "norm" has been whatever makes you happy is what you should do. This is exhibited in the youth of our nation doing exactly that and becoming enslaved by their ignorance, inexperience, outside influence, and out of control lustful desires. In doing so they are shedding more clothing and donning more erotic, revealing, and filthy rags. These young women who are partaking in this norm mostly unaware are not being warned or instructed by their parents, as their parents are endorsing and encouraging the behavior with their own. So now this "norm" is mutating into an out of control monster known as a "more". This more is now acceptable regardless of the opinion of the law, church, or other sensible forms known as morals. Now that the "more" is setting itself in for a long winter's hibernation we as a society and those who are Christians (especially) are having less influence as time goes on. This in part is also greatly compounded by the role being played by the church, and that a large portion of the demographic we have just discussed attends every Sunday and Wednesday.

When will we say something to them? Since when is it Ok for a half-naked teenage girl to hug and hang on her grand-daddy youth leader? Why is it tolerable for church youth to give each other full-frontal hugs and bear hugs that allow the young man to be completely aware of the younger lady's body? Why does it feel wrong that you may be the only person who finds it unacceptable in a place supposedly devoted to worshiping a Just and Holy Creator? Why do female mothers, professed believers, and sisters who stand by silently, think it is acceptable for women to wear shirts that reveal as much cleavage as a porn mag brazenly left out for us to see in our local gas stations in the fellowship of saints? Worse yet why allow their pre-teen daughters to wear skirts that are shorter than most, and I say MOST prostitutes walking the stroll on West Jefferson? They show skin for heroin and crack, why is your daughter (or you) showing hers?

Part 2 will post 12:00 AM Midnight, ET.

Broken Church Windows, Discipline, and A Little Faith

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:47:00 +0000

Arthur Sido at his Blog has commented on an article posted on World Magazine's Website. The article was stumbled upon just moments after a conversation related to the very topic we had shared about for quite a few hours. It is one of utmost importance. There is something to be learned from all of this, and realistically, it is tied to Church Discipline in the body moreso than any other thing.

Arthur Writes...

It is easy to poke at the problems, it is harder to get back to the Word and be part of the solution. The whole house church movement is dedicated to tossing rocks at the church and smugly feeling pious because they are not "steeplehouse people". You can’t reform the church from the outside, throwing rocks at the church building and breaking more windows. If it is true that the vast majority of those attending and in membership in local churches are unregenerate, then preach the Gospel to them! Confront them with their sin and point them to the cross. Why will some preach the Gospel everywhere BUT the church?! Does the Holy Spirit stop at the church door? Do the unregenerate in the church frighten and cow the fearless evangelist?

Check out his post to read more, and if you like, here is a back link to posts on the same topic here at Deliver Detroit.

Hit The Road Jack

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Three and 1/2 years. Honestly, is the longest I've ever held one single job in one single place. There was a time when I was in the Union and moved from company to company, but was with the Union for a considerable amount of time. Other than that, it's safe to say that my career has been one of many trades and I've become a handy man with enough experience in everything to seriously mess things up, or luck out and do an incredible job.

But, lately I've been dabbling as a Manager at a McDonald's Restaurant in the Metro-Detroit area. This job is far harder than many think it may be, and customers don't give simple humane respect to any of it's employees, this just seems to be the normative manner accepted by our culture. Then again, I would say McDonald's is guilty of creating this perspective for individuals by harnessing the fast food service industry and maxing it to it's fullest potential. Seriously, McDonald's has got it down to a science, and they get better and better every day. If you are curious about how it feels to work behind the counter of McD's, check out this Dilbert cartoon on YouTube. While it has been a great experience learning how to micro manage many different personalities, the payoff just doesn't seem like it's worth it. Then again, for a convicted felon coming out of Jail and in need of a job, I was fortunate they even gave me a shot, let alone that I still hold the record for most write-ups in the store's history and made it to Management. That's irony. But, I'm glad for the resume reference it provides, the life experience it's provided, and the perceptional paradigm shift that is experienced when you are humbled by a "Big Breakfast" being hurled at you because it's not the right order. Seriously, people forget that statistically speaking, one out of the thousands of orders in a single shift served are going to probably be an error and need correction. But it's my fault anyway, so smile, and have a nice day!

Now, moving on to the intent of this post. At the time of this posting, it is officially my last day of employment with McDonald's restaurant. I am moving on down the road. I've actually taken a slight pay cut in the hopes of receiving training that will prove more valuable down the road. How this fit's in with my Social Work education and ministry I am not sure yet, but this opportunity is much more promising than McDonald's. It also will provide me with a place to excercise the gifts and talents I enjoy using while in an atmosphere that is not as insane as Airport Restaurant traffic and $1500.00 hour rushes that make you want to fall over and die. Did I also mention the relief that I may have some sense of dignity when I'm in the company of co-workers that MIGHT respect you as a human being? Enticing to say the least.

I am grateful, McDonald's has provided many witnessing opportunities, great relationships with me fellow managers, and bonds that were developed through team work that showed it's strengths when the rubber hit the road. Unfortunately, McDonald's as an organization is making some corporate moves that are respite with immoral endorsements of the homosexual agenda and not something I would willfully affiliate with If I were to have a choice in the matter. And forntualtely enough, the Lord has provided an unsolicited chance for me to move on quietly and comfortably. Check out this video that just shows the tip of the iceberg. It is fresh from the island of Dr. Moreau (California). And they said they were culturally neutral, not anymore! Guilt by association anyone?

Oh well. Life is life, please pray for my new job, and give praise to the name of Jesus for His provision in all things, blessing or not. Amen!

Yes, I Once Used A Rotary Phone!

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Believe it or not, I don't think I talk much about myself here. This is purposeful and definitely deliberate, I like to keep the focus on Christ. However, because I came across this picture in a trunk down in the basement some time ago. As I rummaged through childhood photos I thought ever so quickly at how blessed I was to be given a Mother who gave all she could for me to have a good life, even when it involved her having less. She is still like that to this day. Please, pray for her (Jean) and that she comes to know the Lord and his magnificent mercy and grace, what a great Saint she would make!

"Mom! Please excuse me....I'm on the phone!"

So You're a Calvinist Huh? What's It Like Being a Robot?

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Some would refrain from the ascertaining of a label. Especially if this label was that of Calvinist. Many of us who adhere and affirm to the Doctrines of Grace are all to familiar with this "stereotype" mentality of anti-reformed proponents. It could be said that a great deal of those who are upset with the teachings of Reformed tradition would be clearly in opposition of what the scriptures teach regarding free will.

Yes, I am a Calvinist. I am a Christian first, but to label me, I would don the proverbial name-tag if you will. Parchment and Pen has posted an interesting article regarding this very topic of free will. If you are for or against the Doctrines of Grace, this is a great read for all. Read It Here.

Here is a snippet of the article...

The concept of “free will” suffers no less with regard to this misunderstanding. Does a person have free will? Well, what do you mean by “free will”? This must always be asked.

Do you mean:

That a person is not forced from the outside to make a choice?
That a person is responsible for his or her choices?
That a person is the active agent in a choice made?
That a person is free to do whatever they desire?
That a person has the ability to choose contrary to their nature (who they are)?
Calvinists, such as myself, do believe in free will and we don’t believe in free will. It just depends on what you mean.

Ya'll Got Cable TeeVee?

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 15:50:00 +0000

I'll bet that you didn't know Deliver Detroit sponsors a local Cable Access Television program on Wednesday nights at 7:30 PM. Did you also know that it airs Way Of The Master Season 1 and 2 (3 is coming soon). In the past Paul Washer sermons have been broadcast locally in hopes of reaching the local viewing area with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

While much of the videos planned for airing require editing and prepping for 30 minute segments, there are many in the works. This requires resources such as time, blank DVD's, and software that assists in the process. This is all funded by personal contributions of all the above named resources. If you are willing to participate in this endeavor, please let me know through email how you can help and if you have any ideas for future programming!

This Cable Access is utilized to proclaim the glory of God through it's programming and outreach. The programming scheduled for the next two weeks will be the DVD version of the 2002 Youth Evangelism Conference of Alabama. It features Paul Washer delivering what has become known as the "Shocking Youth Message." Part 1 is scheduled to air August 6th and Part 2 on the 13th.

If you are a resident or cable subscriber in the Romulus, Belleville, Taylor, and Van Buren viewing area, you can see these programs on the community channel 18 on Wednesday's at 7:30 PM.

Minus Wisdom Teeth = No Wisdom?

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0000

The most annoying sound in the world. Ever heard it? Maybe you have. If you've ever had dental work done, I think the resonating sound of a drill grinding your teeth in your head will top the chart. What's worse is being under a local anesthetic and not feeling a thing except your face being stretched and expanded beyond it's normal elasticity while dwelling on how much pain you will be in the following day. I can't help but think that whenever you receive dental work of this nature that the sympathetically toned "I'm Sorry" from the Dental staff should be outlawed from their vocabulary. Are they really sorry? Poke, sorry! Stab, sorry! Ohhhh, I know it hurts, sorry. YANK SORRY, OUCH SORRY.

Someone explain to me why we have wisdom teeth again? What is so wise about embedded, impacted thousand dollar oral surgeries anyway?

Oh well, what's the use complaining anyway. What's done is done. Now I have an excuse for not being wise. I left it at the dentist's office in a pool of blood. Can I sue for that?

True Witness and True Fellowship

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Aristides, a 2nd Century Christian Apologist writes (interpreted from the Syriac Version) in observation of Christian behaviors in the early Church. Also, listen to an awesome sermon by Dr. John MacArthur of Grace Community Church, CA.

"They abstain from all impurity in the hope of the recompense that is to come in another world. As for their servants or handmaids or children, they persuade them to become Christians by the love they have for them; and when they become so, they call them without distinction, brothers. They do not worship strange gods; and they walk in all humility and kindness, and falsehood is not found among them; and they love one another. When they see the stranger they bring him to their homes and rejoice over him as over a true brother; for they do not call those who are after the flesh, but those who are in the Spirit and in God.

"And there is among them a man that is poor and needy and if they have not an abundance of necessities, they fast two or three days, that they may supply the needy with the necessary food. "They observe scrupulously the commandment of their Messiah; they live honestly and soberly as the Lord their God commanded them. Every morning and all hours on account of the goodness of God toward them, they render praise and laud Him over their food and their drink; they render Him thanks.

"And if any righteous person of their number passes away from this world, they rejoice and give thanks to God and they follow his body as though he were moving from one place to another. And when a child is born to them, they praise God, and if again it chances to die in its infancy, they praise God mightily, as for one who has passed through the world without sins.
"Such is the law of the Christians and such is their conduct."

Paul Washer at Berean Baptist Church - Missionary Conference (Livonia, MI.)

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

In October of 2006, the same year I had begun to learn about true missions, prayer, and justification by faith, I was fortunate enough to learn the Paul Washer (Heartcry Missionary Society) was preaching at a local church in Metro-Detroit. Berean Baptist Church of Livonia, MI. hosted a conference that was packed with Paul's powerful preaching. Right-Click the file description and "Save As" to download these awesome MP3's. These files will only be available for download via this post temporarily. After this coming Sunday, August 3rd. They will only be available through SermonAudio or Email.

The Odd Man Out

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Short and sweet today. One Christian, Three Muslims, One Apartment. Give praise to Jesus for such an opportunity as this to minister the gospel to three Muslim men, alone in an apartment, over tea and soda. Pray the seeds that were sowed are watered and soon harvested!

Pray that our dialogue continues and the truth about the Messiah becomes evident in the hearts of these men. Pray that He draws them unto Himself and the Lamb that was slain receives the full reward of His suffering.

A Disciple's Taste for Neckbones and Gizzards (Pietas II)

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 03:08:00 +0000

If I were to claim expertise on the topic of which I have chosen to examine (Pietas/Piety) I would be a bold faced liar. But, I have not claimed expertise nor do I wish to. The purpose in writing on this topic is one of many sorts, but quintessentially is narrowed down to one factor. It has occupied a great majority of my thoughts, meditations, and prayers as of late. I blog here to share these thoughts in hopes of encouraging, edifying, and admonishing members of the Body of Christ. If it stands as rebuke, that was not it's intent. It's purpose is to examine just what distinguishes "piety" from "Pharsaical religion." These two components are clearly distinguishable in the New Testament and a few passages are quite famous in their documentation between Jesus and the leaders of Jerusalem on the very topic. I do not intend this to be a discourse. I'd be comfortable labeling this has a "primer."

Ahem, please let me clarify that gizzards gross me out, and I think that they are something that should be inedible. Matter of fact, if there were legislation to ban gizzard consumption, I would check that box to help the cause. But, there isn't one and I cannot stop people from eating gizzards. Nor will I hold any contempt or prejudiced against them (or you) if they do.

Matthew 15:18-20 provides the text for today's entry. In reading this passage we could do well to take note of the whole context in which Jesus' words were prompted. Upon rebuking the Pharisees for their hypocrisies, Jesus and the disciples converse among themselves (Mk 7:17 cf. in a home) and they request clarification from the Lord of the parable as they had done on previous occasions (Mt 13:36, Mt 15:15-16, Mk 4:34, Mk 7:17, Jn 16:29). Ultimately, we receive a very clear explanation of what Jesus meant as well. We get to thank the confusion of the disciples for that one!

Now Jesus clarifies the importance of this dialog through simple meaning and reference to the prophecy of Isaiah (Mt 15:7, Is 29:13) and likens it to the current generation of Jews. Be it as it may, these words may have had a previous audience when spoken by the prophet, but the oracles of God saw fit for them to apply aptly through the authority of Jesus to speak them again in this setting. The question to be answered here is not were the Pharisees and their practices hypocritical, Scripture clarifies this many times (Mt 7:5, Mt 23:23-29), but what is the point I'm trying to make by telling you all this?

My point is this. The superficiality of Pharisaical religion is found in the understanding of our own personal sins. Where there has been victory won through sanctification, perseverance, and hard won battles of the flesh it is dangerous for NT believers to hold these victories as standards for others to hold to. Worse yet, that they become disqualified in their salvation because we determine them ineligible based upon our own personal piety. Woe to us who yoke our brethren with a yoke that Christ has removed in His sacrifice upon the cross. The other dilemma posed by this situation is far more terrible than the former. This situation occurs not out of the possession of maturity and inner piety, but through the dismissal of our Lord's teachings and how clear they really are.

In an article by Dr. Tom Ascol called "The Heart of the Problem" he writes,

"Failure to accept our Lord's teaching at this point inevitably leads us to locate sin outside of ourselves. This makes it very easy to create an extrabiblical list of activities and objects that we designate "sinful" and rail against them in the name of holiness. Such lists are limited only by the imaginations of their creators and have, in some conservative Christian circles, included everything from sports and movies, to wine and masculine facial hair.

"But Jesus teaches us that sin does not originate "out there." It's haven is the human heart. Martin Luther came to see this and it caused him to say, "I am more afraid of my own heart than of the pope and all his cardinals."

It would seem that firing up the bullhorn and engaging every single Christian listener, Sheeple People, or Joe Schmoe on the street would be a perfect remedy to informing them of every single thing they are doing wrong that keeps them at enmity with Christ, but I would contest it doesn't. They are already at enmity and will stay there until He draws them unto Himself. Fortunately, He has provided a means by which we can participate in that process. It's called preaching the Gospel, and that includes Christ crucified. The sole transformation of deliverance from these things Christian or unbeliever, is the transforming power of the Gospel. As some of us so often forget, the Gospel is for everyday, not just THAT day you were saved.

"By piety I mean that union of reverence and love to God which the knowledge of his benefits inspires. For, until men feel that they owe everything to God, that they are cherished by his paternal care, and that he is the author of all their blessings, so that nought is to be looked for away from him, they will never submit to him in voluntary obedience; nay, unless they place their entire happiness in him, they will never yield up their whole selves to him in truth and sincerity."

-Calvins Institutes book 1 ch. 2, Knowledge of God.

Greektown Gourmet for Mario

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Friday night brought forth some interesting situations. One that is worth mentioning and of slight humor is brother Mike being unable to giveaway doughnut holes. It was near impossible giving them away, even to hungry street people. A few of the regulars of the Greek town district took some doughnuts and in exchange a few minutes to listen to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Coming back up Lafayette we bumped into a guy who wouldn't take a tract, we soon learned the reason why. He was a representative of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, although he wouldn't acknowledge that was the name by which Jehovah's Witnesses operate under. While spewing his indoctrinated rhetoric I made as many attempts as possible to leave him with a single question, "If Jesus is the sole mediator for man (1 Tim 2:5) unto God, then why do I need the Watchtower?" This did not seem to register the point, please pray that his friend next to him, who did take a tract, was listening to the conversation that went on. Pray for Kent also.

Eventually we met up with Mario, who professes Christ and has spoke to other evangelists before. He even seem to recall speaking with us in particular. Mario was hungry and didn't want Mike's dry bagels. It was about five minutes later that a drunk couple stumbled by us and gave Mario a steak dinner they didn't even touch. I guess that's a blessing no? Mike spoke with Mario for some time while I awaited an approaching "Red" who seemed highly inquisitive of what we were up to.

Red, or Theo, or whatever his name was (he claimed a couple) was internationally known in the streets. He was 'reppin' and was a big time playa in the D-Town dope game. However, he was reduced to workin the Greek town streets, and almost possibly preying upon the suburban suckers that get hustled while they visit downtown and have no idea how to say no. Then again, crack will greatly inhibit your judgment and decision making capabilities. We ran into a few of those earlier in the evening. They wanted money for parking, when they said they lost all there money, couldn't stay awake while talking to us, we gave them the Gospel and offered to help them get there car out of the garage, but in following them to the garage, they made an attempt to lose us and we returned back to Beaubien and Lafayette. Theo left us in gratitude and was showing conviction in his eyes as he continued on about really wondering just "WHY" Jesus was so narrow minded?

Mike carried on a conversation with Edward after Mario left and he offered to sell us weed several times while saying that he knew God and walked in His ways. We encouraged him to examine himself against the Scriptures and to repent of his sins. He agreed that 'pimpin poison' was not a reputable line of work for a man of God.

The night ended with Mike and I sitting on a corner chatting about Luke 13:1-9 and just how important that text really is to understand. Also, the power behind it's application to those who consistently dismiss others based on their own experiential understanding of faith and salvation as opposed to the Scriptural diagnosis of what really ocurrs in the sanctification of a believer and the proper response to one who does not show fruit yet may be a brother.

Worthless Prayer Meetings - Washer Remix

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Here is a quick remix with musical accompaniment to the Paul Washer Clip posted a few days ago.

Deliver Detroit is One Year Old

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:21:00 +0000

Did you know that this past month marks the first year anniversary of this blog? You might have just found it, or maybe you've always been a reader, either way it's been a whole year! To my many faithful readers (all 3 of them) thank you for your support and please keep reading! Also, if you're a new reader and have yet to interact, please do, I enjoy making contact with my readers and love to hear your input. Remember, the comments section is always on and I encourage all to use it! I look forward to hearing from you, if you're not a commenter than you can reach me by email also!

Here is a snap shot of the old blog, remember it?

Worthless Prayer Meetings - Paul Washer

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Two years ago I had the privilege of attending a missions conference at Berean Baptist Church of Livonia. It had been the first missions conference I'd ever attended where there was a week of truly sound biblical doctrine expounded upon and prayer being emphasized as a key element in missions work. This particular conference inside of one week's time, in a small congregation, with little amenities (hardly able to be labeled as a "wealthy church") raised an amount equal to that of the yearly budget of the United Methodist Church I was currently attending, and they were in the red to boot. The final night (of which I was in attendance with some friends) Paul Washer preached his second sermon on the importance of prayer and what it really is. Here is a clip of that message I think we all should find very sobering.

Advent of Christ in a Sinner (Pietas I)

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:01:00 +0000

Essentially midway through the two week period that marks the anniversary of my sequential arrest, heroin detox, and salvation in the Wayne County Jail (Detroit), I have been in much thought. These thoughts have not only been occurring as of late, but ongoing for the past month or so. It is just now, during this time of gratitude, memorial, and reflection that it starts making more sense than it did four years ago.

Since it was merely a two week period spent awaiting the Lord (as I did not know that's what I was doing), there was little time to do any other thing than think of the pain caused to others by me, the magnitude and seriousness of my crimes, the future implications of the life I had previously led, the HIV and blood test results that had yet to arrive, and total fear of release back into the world again. During some points, there were thoughts that led to a preference of remaining incarcerated, at least by this I knew what to expect each day in and day out.

Let it be understood that I could meditate and elaborate for hours and on many things concerning my feelings regarding this period of my life. But to this day let it be known that this period is one I hold in high esteem and regard it highly unto the Lord. It marks His advent (coming) into my life and redeeming me from what was a horrible existence physically, but most importantly; what was becoming a horrible life eternally. In my sin, He showed me grace.

Following this salvation, this act of mercy, this great work of God wrought in the life of a sinner who had once thought himself unworthy of forgiveness, what was to come? What is to come in any believer following their conversion? Just what is required of them now that they have professed Christ? What kinds of circumstances follow conversion that encourage or hinder the believer in sanctification?

I ask all these questions with personal reference as well as reference to all who name Christ as Lord. Is there a set standard that determines the rate of development believers are to endure? Is there a pace that is set and held to in order to determine the legitimacy of one's confession? Who's side of the yoke is heavier ours or Christ's? In bearing the burden and enduring the walk of a Christian, I would contend that Christ's yoke being easy, and His burden light, He is bearing and has already bore a majority of the load and has essentially made it easier for us to bear through His finished work.

Christ stated that His yoke would be easy and burden light; directly referencing the yoke the Pharisees and Scribes were laying upon people through the law of Moses and their unbearable burden greatly magnified by the ceremonial and traditional burden that was added, Christ makes it clear that this is not what He requires. Matthew 11:28-30 show just what the Lord meant by this, and picturing two oxen yoked together shows us how a load is bore. Although the load is taken upon two yoked together, this does not necessarily equate the two as being of equal stature or capability, it merely means they are yoked together.

Think about it, I'll be back with more in the following days. I have been deep in thought and consulting the Scriptures daily as I examine these things and the Lord has shown me through His Word many wonderful things.

Lucky Number Thirteen (13th)

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:20:00 +0000

In July of 2004 a new chapter of my life was opened. I might even venture as far as saying that in that year it wasn't a new chapter in and of itself, but quite possibly the only chapter that ever mattered.

Today marks the four year anniversary of the first day I spent free of heroin. This is a day I am eternally grateful for. While it's not like a birthday that is celebrated with cake and ice cream surrounded by friends who are all happy for you, it is a day I give gratitude to the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A short summary of that day might go like the following. I awoke in a precinct holding cell in Lincoln Park, MI., sick as a dog. I grew annoyed by the relentless questioning of the case detective and angry at his sarcastic banter that was making fun of my withdrawal symptoms. The bones of my body began to ache from the inside out and nausea was quickly setting in. The fear of withdrawing from heroin that kept me using for so long was finally a reality I was going to have to face.

My future was quickly on my mind and I was not too thrilled about becoming a convicted felon and spending time in Detroit's Wayne County Jail, but it was going to be so. And so it became. That day I was transferred to the County Jail and I began a week of withdraws that I remember to this day. In such vivid remembrance I keep in my mind a portrait of what I never want to be again. A junkie I was, and a junkie I'll never return to being. With the worries of what my life will become darkly overshadowed by the sickness setting in, I accepted my new realty, and in some sick way, was happy that I was finally going to 'kick' the dope.

Spending time in a quarantine cell that held twenty inmates and was maxed out with thirty was not very pleasant. Mingling and living with drug dealers, killers, rapists, and child support evaders was not something this suburban white boy would ever think he'd end up doing, but it too was sobering. However, it was a safer environment than the one I had been arrested in. One week in that unit was what I spent and was eventually transferred to general population. I could actually walk better and was getting over the puking that is typical with DT's (withdrawal from alcohol/heroin).

Another week passed by and I finally felt human again. I could smell, taste, touch, talk, and see (thanks to the glasses my mother brought to the jail for me) again. I was starting to know what it was like to be alive. I spent six months in the streets masquerading as the living dead. Never, no never, did I think about being saved by the Lord Jesus. Nor did I ever ponder the thought of living a life of righteousness and holiness that can only be had through His Holy Spirit. That week, He revealed to me in salvation that it could be a reality. That week, He chose to save me from my sin and deliver me unto Him.

Praise God for His infinite mercies. The previous description barely scratches the surface of the things I endured and experienced up to that day. The journey following was not a bed of roses either, but all of it pales in comparison to the climax of light and perfection of the Lord's pardoning and sufficient sacrifice for me.

Four years is a long time for a heroin addict to not do heroin. In comparison to ten years of heavy drug and alcohol abuse, four years is finite. I've lost many friends to heroin and drugs over the years. I've also seen a great many more people fall victim to it and suffer physical consequences in their latter years.

While I held my three month old niece today I thought of new life. I thought of being born again and a clean slate. I thought of how my family would not trust me with a dollar let alone this precious little child. I think of forgiveness and the gift of eternal life that instills gratitude that runs so deep a tear wells in my eye as I type this. I think of my family who tells me how great I've done and how quickly I get to tell them It isn't me, but Christ that lives within me (Gal 2:20).

In closing thought I share with you this. One night I sat in a dank and dark basement with a cocaine dealer, and we were carrying on about religion. In justification he shared with me a reason why he thought we were doing what we were doing. He shared Romans 7:19 with me and upon reading it, I burst into tears. Occurring several years before my conversion, I knew this was not a justification of my sinful lifestyle, but now understand it to be a revelation of what His Sovereign Hand was doing. I now know that He was going to call me unto Himself, and now know Him as Lord and Savior. That verse was the only one I knew after my arrest. It was the only one I could remember in my head until I had a Bible given to me. I now also see how the Roman epistle served to convert a great many a men and now count myself as one of them.

Praise His Holy Name!

Update on My Muslim Friend...

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Unfortunately, there hasn't been too much to report on my friend who recently converted. He has benefited from all the financial support that has come in to assist him. He has said many times to send his thanks and gratitude to all those who have contributed. It has been hard for him to swallow his pride in many ways and accept outside help, as he wished to work for it. I'm afraid this is a human thing that is greatly magnified by his culture.

Contact with him lately has been hard and dealing with his wife is difficult. She seems to have a memory lapse disorder and has a hard time remembering me. It is also difficult getting straight information out of her as she may or may not be lying personally. As of now, she does not appear to be a believer.

My last contact with them resulted in learning that he has been picked up by immigration and detained for an expired work visa. He is being held in a detention facility by the Federal Courthouse in Detroit on a $2500 bond. I'm doing what I can to get more information about how to help him out of the situation.

Please pray for him and his family.

Featured Sermon/Audio Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Once in awhile, there's a sermon that helps you deal with some hard things. Sometimes, there's a sermon that hits the nail on the head. Often, the Lord speaks directly to you through the proclamation of His Eternal Word. But there also comes a time when a message does more than make you go hmm, It makes you rejoice and be glad that the Lord has chosen the preaching of His word as a communication of His oracles. And lastly, there are always those sermons that help you paint a clearer picture of just what it takes to walk in righteousness and how to live a life that conveys a better testimony of His work in you! Here are one of those sermons...

Title: William Tyndale: A Life Transformed By God’s Word
Speaker : Pastor John Piper
Ministry: Desiring God
Message Delivered @: New Attitude Conference 2008
Download: Right-Click and Save-As

Play Now:

Description: Original Description from NewAttitude.Org

Pastor Piper tells the story of William Tyndale who “had one driving passion: he wanted to see the Bible in English so that ordinary folks would have access to it.” From the life of William Tyndale and wanting us to follow in the footsteps of William Tyndale, Piper made the case that “there are things left to be done with the Bible in this world that you should do.”
Piper declared two ways that we must die to advance God’s cause through the Bible:

1. We must die to the notion that you don’t have to work hard or think hard to achieve spiritual goals.

2. We must die to the notion that thinking hard and working hard are decisive for achieving spiritual goals.

Piper drew from 2 Timothy 2:7, ”Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.” Piper highlighted this dual call of the Christian to 1) think hard and 2) recognize that our thinking and working are not ultimately decisive, God gives understanding.

You’ll want to get the audio to hear Piper tell Tyndale’s story and to hear Piper challenge us to not waste our life, but instead strive to be like William Tyndale.

The Difference Between Priority and Privilege

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Me: How are you?

Them: I have no food, we ate out last can of tuna last night.

Me: (Glancing at the foggy door glass from the central-air running) Is everything else okay?
Them: I hope so, maybe in the long run we will be.

Me: Maybe a rearranging of priorities is in order? (cell-phone, central air, cable-TV, cigarettes, electricity, water, food?) Sometimes we take our luxuries for granted don't we? Maybe you should get rid of some of your unnecessary expenses?

Them: Those aren't luxuries, this is America, it's our way of life.

I'm hungry, but I need to buy cigarettes first. Why is it I should help you again?

Oh For Shame...

noreply@blogger.com (Faithful Servant) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Even in the knowledge of the presence of Christ (believers), I do find it to be war when fighting temptation. Yet, sometimes there's that brazen sin that is as if you are scoffing the God who has given you life.

I am unworthy of His grace. Pray for me.