by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

Are we emptied of self? Do we make our plans to benefit self or others? We need to moment by moment consider if our choice is in line with righteous or worldly principles. How can our loving Saviour use us as vessels for holy service until we are empty of self, and make room for His Spirit to work? We are living in perilous times. Studying of the Scriptures is necessary for the correct moral development of our characters. When the truth transforms our characters, it will be revealed to be truth indeed.

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

If you bind up an arm for even a few weeks then unbind it, you will see that it is weaker than the other one. Inactivity results in the same affect upon the entire body. The whole body needs to be moved to allow the blood to be in a condition that it can reach all the needed systems and tissues in the body. Inactivity is a major contributing factor to disease. God has designed us to go about doing good just like Jesus did. Our bodies are designed for motion. To have strength we must tax our muscles on a regular bases. If we do, it will be our glory.

Jesus had to leave the heavenly courts and humble Himself to become like one of us to reveal the true character of God and redeem the fallen race. There was no man that did what is right nor was without sin. Jesus took on humanity, become our example, and died the death we deserve. He says "I am the resurrection and the life." God Himself tasted death for every man that they might have eternal life in the presence of God and the holy angels. All that we are called to bear in this world, our Saviour went through the same trails, sufferings, and temptations. He is aquatinted with our sufferings and cries with us as we go through hard times. 

The great lie that Satan tells the universe is that we can not live without sin and God is not reasonable. Christ's life here on this earth showed that through the power of God in us, all are able to live a sinless life. Christ paid the price so we can have forgiveness when we sin, and through His grace, we all can partake of the character of God.

by Daniel Baldwin 

God cares for each one of us. As we place ourselves in the Masters hands to do His bidding, He will provide for our needs both physical and spiritual. We are to learn how to please God and seek the good of other rather than ourselves. You are responsible for the influence you have on others. God wants us to co-operate with Him that we might do righteousness. Jesus has opened up all the divine fullness of His inexpressible love, and He declares to you, “Ye are laborers together with God.”

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

• Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure. 

• A major cause of heart disease and stroke. 

• A common cause of nervous system damage resulting in loss of feeling, pain, digestive problems, and erectile dysfunction. 

• In pregnant women, diabetes increases the risk of complications and spontaneous abortion. 

• Diabetics have a depressed immune system and are more prone to suffer colds, infections, influenza, and pneumonia. 

• Diabetics are twice as likely to suffer depression. 

• Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the U.S.

• Most diabetics die from heart problems caused by high blood sugar. 

• Cancer and Alzheimer’s disease are more common among diabetics. As you can see diabetes is not a very friendly disease. Fortunately, much can be done to prevent

As you can see diabetes is not a very friendly disease. Fortunately, much can be done to prevent diabetes. In the Nurses’ Health Study Harvard University discovered that if you had none of the common risk factors for diabetes your risk was 10 times lower than someone who had one or more risk factors.²

In another large population study including 23,153 people, researchers looked at lifestyle and chronic disease. They found that if you

• Didn’t smoke

• Maintained a healthy weight

• Exercised 3.5 hours per week or more

• Ate well (ate primarily whole grains, a high intake of fruits and vegetables, and limited intake of red and processed meats)

you had a 90% decreased risk of developing diabetes during the 8-year study compared to people with risk factors.³ This is good news. Choosing a healthy lifestyle lowers your risk.

Even if you already have risks, you can take preventive actions now before diabetes damages your health. Here is a quick summary of steps you can take to prevent diabetes. These preventive actions have the potential to prevent 9 out of 10 cases of diabetes if they are all implemented.4

1. Maintain a healthy weight.
If overweight, even losing 10-15 pounds can significantly lower your risk.

2. Don’t smoke.
If you do, quit. It will lower your risk of diabetes and enhance all aspects of your health.

The risk of diabetes can be

reduced by 90% by implementing

four healthy living factors.

3. Take up walking or other physical activities.
Work up to at least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily.

4. Choose healthy meals,
low in red meat and other foods high in cholesterol and saturated fats, and high in whole, plant based foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes (soy, lentils, garbanzos, etc.), nuts, and whole grains. Limit refined foods such as white bread, soft drinks, white rice, snack foods, French fries, and sweets.

5. Get regular medical care
including a blood test for high blood sugar. The American Diabetes Association recommends everyone age 45 or older get a blood test for diabetes, sooner if you are excessively over weight.⁴

A fasting blood sugar test less than 100 mg/dL is normal. If your fasting blood sugar level is 126 mg/ dL or higher, you have diabetes. If it is 100 mg/dL to 125 mg/dL, you have prediabetes. If elevated, serious action is needed.

Even if you have diabetes, a healthy lifestyle will help you manage your health condition and prevent many of the serious complications of diabetes from occurring.

Even if your blood test is normal, adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent diabetes will help you enjoy good health every day of your life and ease your mind knowing you are doing all you can do to prevent diabetes from occurring in the future.

Don Hall, DrPH, CHES
Health Educator

1 NIH, National Diabetes Statistics, http://diabetes. niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/statistics/#fast

2 Archives of Internal Medicine 2009;169(15):1355- 1162

4 Harvard Nutrition Source Preventing Diabetes, http:// www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/diabetes- prevention/

Special Note: More ways to prevent diabetes are found in Dr. Hall’s book, 9 Ways to Prevent Diabetes. 

Dr. Hall will give a live presentation on reversing diabetes in November.

Abdominal fat is common enough. But aside from making our waistbands too snug, carrying fat specifically in our midsection has been linked to greater risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, breathing problems, disability, some cancers, higher mortality rates, and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a condition defined by waist size as well as by having two or more additional health problems, such as high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, high triglycerides, or insulin resistance. Metabolic syndrome seems to lead to a downward spiral as it intensifies the risk of heart disease and leads to an early onset of type 2 diabetes.

We’ve always known that being overweight is dangerous to our health. But it’s now understood that the location of surplus fat plays a more deciding role in how and to what extent fat will affect us than was previously thought, because not all fat is alike. Fat around the middle not only “hangs out” just beneath the skin surface, but is largely visceral, deep fat that packs itself around internal organs. Apparently hip fat is not as much of a problem. A study published in the medical journal Lancet, involving 27,000 people in 52 countries, found that waist-to-hip ratio more accurately predicts who will have a heart attack than weight or even body mass index.¹

Why would this be the case? Because fat cells are not merely inert blobs of stored leftovers waiting to be used in time of famine. In fact, science now recognizes fat cells as endocrine factories, “extraordinarily dynamic, complex and influential entities that affect a staggering array of crucial bodily functions.”² In other words, fat cells dispatch potent chemical signals to tissues throughout the body, including the brain, liver, muscles, reproductive organs and immune system, orchestrating a host of activities. Unfortunately, “It’s probably the biggest endocrine organ in the body,” said Jeffrey M. Friedman of the Rockefeller University in New York.³

As fat releases powerful body chemicals it “sets off reactions in the body that lead to changes in arteries, organs, and cells that result in heart disease, diabetes, and probably some cancers. The more abdominal fat, the greater the risk of developing these conditions earlier. “It’s becoming clearer and clearer that body fat distribution is a critically important variable,” says JoAnn Manson, Chief of Preventive Medicine at Harvard University’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “And abdominal obesity is the key culprit.”⁴

For some reason, visceral fat is the most metabolically active. It is known to influence the immune system and the formation of blood clots, determine when blood vessels constrict, and release substances that increase the body’s resistance to insulin. “It seems to me that what has emerged is a sense that abdominal obesity promotes insulin resistance, which raises insulin levels, which increases appetite, which increases triglycerides, which causes the good HDL to go down, and increases sodium absorption, then blood volume expands, and blood pressure goes up,” says

Carrying fat specifically in our midsection has been linked to greater risk of many diseases.

William Kannel, a professor at Boston University Medical School and a former director of the Framingham Heart Study.5 It’s not difficult to see how this could lead to a wide array of problems.

Referring to fat cells, Rexford S. Ahima, an endocrinologist at the University of Pennsylvania says, “It’s obvious that it makes and secretes more hormones and proteins than probably any other (organ). It’s at the center of a very complex system. It coordinates how much we eat, how much energy we burn, how the immune system works, how we reproduce. The list goes on.”⁶

A significant part of that list is its ability to provoke an inflammatory response. “As fat mass increases, this is associated with a systematic stress response and inflammatory response, and that exhibits itself in a variety of diseases.”⁷

Fat has long had a negative connotation. It has been drilled into the western mind that fat is bad. Yet fat is a necessary part of human anatomy. The problem (as with old Mr. Alley Cat) is, of course, the excessive amount. Researchers at the Duke University Medical Center revealed physical inactivity as a main culprit in the increase in potentially dangerous visceral fat. High amounts of exercise were confirmed to significantly decrease such fat over a relatively short time. While “lower amounts of exercise prevented the significant accumulation of visceral fat seen in the controls, it did not lead to the improvements seen in participants with higher levels of exercise.”⁸

Controlling visceral fat is important. Yes, it is difficult to get rid of because fat begets fat. Heredity may be against you. You may have gained so much you may feel it is a hopeless cause. You may feel judged by others and are discouraged. I would like to encourage you that, with the fullest determination, you can win the very real battle of the bulge. You can succeed.

A key ingredient in doing battle against anything we fight is hope. It is a necessary ingredient to success. Hope can be directed to or placed in many things: a new diet program, surgery, physical trainer, etc. While these can be helpful, there is a resting place for hope that is guaranteed. The Heavenly Father has promised that placing our hope in Him will not leave us ashamed or disappoint us. (See Romans 5:5). He stands behind all of His promises. As our Father He longs to teach us valuable lessons of perseverance and self-control. His Spirit is given to make these our reality. “And being fully persuaded that, what he [has] promised he [is] able also to perform” live a life of hope, knowing that you shall be more than conqueror. ⁹

Risë Rafferty Health Journalist, LBM

1 http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/articles/051128/28waist_3.htm

2 http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A43258- 2004Jul11?language=printer

3 Ibid.

4 http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/articles/051128/28waist_3.htm

5 Ibid.

This is a journey toward wellness. How will you get there? First you need some basic information. In spite of what you have heard about genetics determining your health, that statement is only partially true. According to research cited by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the majorcausesofdeathand disability are more dependent on our lifestyles—the way we live—than on our genetics. Please consider the following:

In a little village near Sacramento California, there is a team of nurses and physicians that operate a lifestyle intervention program called NEWSTART.

These nurses and doctors do not readily prescribe medications as others of their profession do. Instead, when guests come for their 18-day NEWSTART stay, they implement a simple program of dietary changes, daily walks, the drinking of pure water, exposure to sunlight, fresh air, adequate rest and trust in our Creator. These are changes that anyone can implement at home.

What kinds of results do they achieve? Nothing short of miraculous! In only 18 days:

• 50% of hypertensive patients are completely off their drugs

• 80% of the patients with leg pain (neuropathy) have complete relief

• 50% of patients with chest pain (angina) have complete relief

• 80% of diabetics reverse their condition

These dramatic results underscore the need for us all to actively cooperate with the laws of heath, which not only prevent but actually reverse a significant number of lifestyle-related diseases. So...are you ready for your Journey to Wellness? In its simplest form, this Journey to Wellness is a three-step process that involves physical activity, simpledietarychanges, and adequate hydration with pure water.

1. A Walking Program

The fastest way to improve your health is to involve yourself in regular physical activity. And the safest and easiest activity to begin is a walking program. For people with chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol (metabolic syndrome), walking has dramatic effects if done twice a day for 30 minutes. It needs to be a brisk walk, and uninterrupted...a constant rhythmic brisk walking activity for 30 minutes!

2. A Plant-Based Diet

The research from hundreds of studies shows that people who choose fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and grains have fewer health problems and live much longer. On the other hand, an animal-based diet of meat, chicken, fish and 

dairy products tends to shorten life and contribute to lifestyle diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, strokes and hypertension. Add more and

more fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains to your diet. By so doing you will dramatically reduce your risk for these major diseases.

3. Pure Water

Few people today drink enough water to make a difference in their health. AsAmericanswedrink almost everything but pure water. We drink many things that have water in them, but these drinks are flavored with sugar, which contributes to obesity; caffeine, which makes the blood thicker; and milk protein like casein, which can trigger allergies.

How important is water? Humans are 70% water by weight. All of the life-sustaining reactions of metabolism are dependent on water. Your body loses a certain amount of water each day through urination, exhalation, perspiration and bowel elimination. Make sure to replenish your body’s water supply by drinking water throughout the day. One guideline to make sure you are drinking adequate water is to drink two glasses before breakfast, lunch and dinner, and one or two in the evening before retiring.

Jack McIntosh
Health Educator
Wellness Pays

When we tell people things that are not truthful, we are serving the one that was a liar from the beginning. He is the father of lies. All who desire to stand on the side of unselfish love and align themselves with God must practice telling the truth in every circumstance. Make truth your girdle and stand firm for right doing. We should be imitating the group we wish to spend eternity with. The angels of heaven want truthful neighbors. Let us practice day by day to be be without falsehood until we are ready for heaven.

by Daniel Baldwin

"God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Colossians 2:2,3. As we learn more of Jesus and abide with Him throughout the day, our hearts are opened more and  more to receive His attributes. "through His Spirit in the inner man... Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

The yoke of bondage spoken by Paul here is bondage to sin and the desires of the flesh. Jesus through the Holy Spirit can make changes to our character as we are willing to submit our desires and ideas to God and do things God's way. God wants only what is best for us and if we could see the end from the beginning we would agree that God's ways are always best.

In the freedom that is in Jesus Christ the freedom comes from staying within the boundaries of the whole law. The first four commandments speak of love for God and the last six speak of love for man. God wants us to be others centered. We are to serve one another in love and not gratify our own selfish desires and wants. Jesus said "inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me." Matthew 25:40.

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

When we plant a fruit tree and provide good soil for it, care for it by keeping the grass down, and water it diligently, do we not anxiously anticipate the reward of it producing buds, blossoms, and fruit? In the same way, our heavenly Father much more awaits beautiful spiritual fruit to appear in our lives with eager and tender interest. He desires the character of Jesus to be reproduced in us.

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

Our part is to prepare the soil and plant the seeds at the right time and in the right way. God's part is to give life to the seeds and provides the sunshine. If we do not do our part, then no matter how much rain or sunshine God send, there will be no harvest.  When it comes to our own character, we must cooperate with God. God's desires our love above all else. He created us for love and desires an intimate relationship with us. As we love Him we will desire to be like Jesus. We must submit our will to God and do as He would have us to do. We are to work to form right habits, cultivate a spirit like Jesus', and to not neglect our duty or make excuse for sin. 

As we do our part, God's grace will supply the power in perfecting our character. Just as a garden will be overcome with weeds if not carefully attended to, so will the heart of man be overcome with evil if effort is not put forth to direct it in the way of righteousness.

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

Many miss a great blessing from Jesus by not following this pattern set before us by Jesus and His disciples. The spiritual life is a daily war against the enemy of souls. Satan and his forces do not stop waging war against us when we stop fighting against him. We need to fill our minds with the bread of life, the Bible. God has promised to provide every provision needed for salvation if we continually seek Jesus in pray and Bible study. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you.

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

Love, Your King who has already won. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, But against the rulers, against the authorities, against the Powers of this dark world and against the spiritual Forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
Ephesians 6:12.

Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

by Daniel Baldwin

By Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

Daniel Baldwin

The Bible rates health right near the top of the list in importance. Man's mind, spiritual nature, and body are all interrelated and interdependent. What affects one affects the other. If our bodies are misused, our minds and spiritual natures cannot become what God ordained they should. "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." 3 John 2. 

God gave health rules because He knows what is best for the human body. Automobile manufacturers place an "operations manual" in the glove compartment of each new car because they know what is best for their product. God, who made our bodies, also has an "operations manual." It is called the Holy Bible. Ignoring God's "operations manual" results in disease, twisted thinking, and burned-out lives, just as abusing a car (against the manufacturer's counsel) results in serious car trouble. Following God's rules results in "saving health" (Psalms 67:2) and more abundant life (John 10:10). These great health laws are like a wall or fence to keep out the diseases of Satan. God tells us what these rules are so we can avoid the devil's traps.

"And the Lord commanded us to do all these statutes ... for our good always, that he might preserve us alive." Deuteronomy 6:24. "And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee." Exodus 23:25. 

Yes, a Christian will even eat and drink differently--all to the glory of God--using only "that which is good." If God says a thing is not fit to eat, He must have a good reason. He is not a harsh dictator, but a loving Father. All His counsel is for our good always. The Bible promises: "No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly." Psalms 84:11. So if God withholds a thing from us, it is because it is not good. "Eat ye that which is good." Isaiah 55:2. "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31. Note: Ignoring God's health laws, impacts a person’s judgment and lower the resistance to temptation and cause sin.

The diet God gave people in the beginning was fruit, grains, and nuts. Vegetables were added a bit later (Genesis 3:18). "And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed ... and every tree ... yielding seed." "Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat." Genesis 1:29; 2:16. In Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, God very clearly points out the following groups as being unclean. Read both chapters in full.

Pigs are unclean. Shellfish and catfish are unclean. Birds of prey are unclean.

All animals which do not have a split hoof and chew the cud and all fish and water creatures that do not have both fins and scales. Nearly all fish are clean (Deuteronomy 14:6,9).

All birds of prey, carrion eaters, and fish eaters (Leviticus 11:13-20). Most "creeping things" (or invertebrates) are also unclean (Leviticus 11:21-47). The ones which live all or part-time in water and do not have both fins and scales are unclean. 

These chapters make it clear that most animals, birds, and water creatures people ordinarily eat are clean. There are, however, some very notable exceptions. According to God's rules, the following animals are unclean and are not to be eaten: hogs, squirrels, rabbits, catfish, eels, lobsters, clams, crabs, shrimp, oysters, frogs, and many others. 

This may be shocking, but it is true. The Bible positively states that all who eat "swine's flesh," the "mouse," and other unclean things that are an "abomination" will be destroyed with fire at the coming of the Lord. When God says to leave something alone and not eat it, we should by all means obey Him. After all, the mere eating of a piece of forbidden fruit by Adam and Eve, a sinless couple, brought sin and death to this world in the first place. Can anyone say it doesn't matter, when God so clearly shows it does? God says men will be destroyed because they "chose that in which I delighted not." Isaiah 66:4.

 
"For, behold, the Lord will come with fire ... and by his sword will the Lord plead with all flesh: and the slain of the Lord shall be many. They that sanctify themselves, and purify themselves ... eating swine's flesh, and the abomination, and the mouse, shall be consumed together, saith the Lord." Isaiah 66:15-17. 

But didn't this law of clean and unclean animals originate at Sinai? Wasn't it for the Jews only, and didn't it end at the cross? 

No indeed! The Bible has ample evidence that there were clean and unclean animals from the very dawn of Creation. Noah lived long before any Jews existed, but he knew of the clean and unclean, because he took into the ark the clean animals by "sevens" and the unclean by "twos." Revelation 18:2 refers to some birds as being unclean just before the second coming of Christ. The death of Christ had no altering effect whatever on these health laws, since the Bible says that all who break them will be destroyed when Jesus returns (Isaiah 66:15-17). The Jew's stomach and digestive system in no way differs from that of a Gentile. These health laws are for all people for all time. "And the Lord said unto Noah, ... Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens ... and of beasts that are not clean by two." Genesis 7:1, 2.

What about the use of alcoholic beverages? The Bible says;
"Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." Proverbs 20:1. "Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder." Proverbs 23:31, 32. "Neither fornicators ... nor drunkards ... shall inherit the kingdom of God." 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10. 

Does the Bible condemn the use of tobacco? Yes, the Bible gives six reasons why the use of tobacco is displeasing to God:

1. The use of tobacco injures health and defiles the body. "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17. 

2. Nicotine is an addictive substance that enslaves people. Romans 6:16 says that we become servants to whomever (or whatever) we yield ourselves. Tobacco users are servants of nicotine. Jesus says, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve." Matthew 4:10.

3. The tobacco habit is unclean. "Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." 2 Corinthians 6:17. It is really preposterous to think of Christ using tobacco in any form, isn't it?

4. The use of tobacco wastes money. "Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread?" Isaiah 55:2. We are God's stewards of the money given us, and "it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." 1 Corinthians 4:2.

5. The use of tobacco never draws anyone closer to Christ. "Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul." 1 Peter 2:11. Tobacco use is a fleshly lust.

6. The use of tobacco shortens life. Recent scientific findings confirm the fact that the use of tobacco often shortens the life span by as much as one-third. This breaks God's command against killing (Exodus 20:13). Even though it is slow murder, it is still murder. One of the best ways to postpone your funeral is to quit using tobacco. 

Here are 11 simple, yet very important, health laws found in the Bible.

1. Eat your meals at regular intervals, and do not use animal fat or blood. "Eat in due season." Ecclesiates 10:17. "It shall be a perpetual statute ... that ye eat neither fat nor blood." Leviticus 3:17.

Note: Recent scientific studies have confirmed the fact that most heart attacks result from a high cholesterol level in the blood--and that the use of "fats" is largely responsible for this high level. It looks like the Lord knows what He is talking about after all, doesn't it?

2. Don't overeat. "Put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite." Proverbs 23:2. In Luke 21:34, Christ specifically warns against "surfeiting" (overeating) in the last days. Overeating is responsible for many degenerative diseases.

3. Don't harbor envy or hold grudges. These evils disrupt body processes. The Bible says that envy brings "rottenness of the bones." Proverbs 14:30. Christ even commands us to clear up grudges that others may hold against us (Matthew 5:23, 24). 

4. Maintain a cheerful, happy disposition. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Proverbs 17:22. "As he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Proverbs 23:7. Many diseases from which people suffer are a result of mental depression. A cheerful, happy disposition imparts health and prolongs life. 

5. Put full trust in the Lord. "The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied." Proverbs 19:23. Trust in the Lord strengthens health and life. "My son, attend to my words. ... For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh." Proverbs 4:20-22. So health comes from obedience to God's commands and from putting full trust in Him.

6. Balance work and exercise with sleep and rest. "Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work." Exodus 20:9, 10. "The sleep of a labouring man is sweet." Ecclesiates 5:12. "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread." Genesis 3:19. "It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late." Psalms 127:2. "For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun? ... his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity." Ecclesiastes 2:22, 23. 

7. Keep your body clean. "Be ye clean." Isaiah 52:11.

8. Be temperate in all things. "Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things." 1 Corinthians 9:25. "Let your moderation be known unto all men." Philippians 4:5. A Christian will completely avoid all things that are harmful and will be moderate in the use of things that are good. Habits that injure health break the command "Thou shalt not kill." They kill by degrees. They are suicide on the installment plan.

9. Avoid all harmful stimulants. Here is a surprise for some. Medical science has confirmed the fact that tea, coffee, and soft drinks that contain the addictive drug caffeine and other harmful ingredients are all positively damaging to the human body. None of these contain food value except through the sugar or cream added, and most of us already use too much sugar. Stimulants give a dangerous, artificial boost to the body and are like trying to carry a ton in a wheelbarrow. The popularity of these drinks is due not to flavor or advertising, but to the dose of caffeine they contain. Many Americans are sickly because of their addiction to coffee, tea, and caffeinated soft drinks. But the real tragedy is that men and women seeking peace and strength are using tea and coffee as cheap substitutes for prayer and Bible study. This delights the devil and wrecks human lives.

10. Make mealtime a happy time. "Every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God." Ecclesiastes 3:13. Unhappy scenes at mealtime hinder digestion. Avoid them. 

11. Help those who are in need. "Loose the bands of wickedness, ... undo the heavy burdens, ... deal thy bread to the hungry, and ... bring the poor that are cast out to thy house ... when thou seest the naked, ... cover him ... and thine health shall spring forth speedily." Isaiah 58:6-8. This is too plain to misunderstand: when we help the poor and needy, we improve our own health. 

The answer is too plain to miss. Those who break God's rules regarding the care of the body machine will reap broken bodies and burned-out lives, just as one who abuses his automobile will have serious car trouble. And those who continue to break God's laws of health will ultimately be destroyed by the Lord (1 Corinthians 3:16, 17). God's health laws are not arbitrary. They are natural, established laws of the universe, like the law of gravity. Ignoring these laws always brings certain disastrous results. The Bible says, "The curse causeless shall not come." Proverbs 26:2. Trouble comes when we ignore the laws of health. God, in mercy, tells us what these laws are so we may avoid the tragedies that result from breaking them.

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Galatians 6:7. 

"Thou shalt not eat it; that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee." Deuteronomy 12:25. "I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me." Exodus 20:5. 

A person may suffer because of his parents' or grandparents' bad health habits. 

God makes it very plain that children and grandchildren (to the fourth generation) pay for the folly of parents who ignore God's health rules. The children and grandchildren inherit weakened, sickly bodies when mother and father defy God's rules for their lives. Is this what you want for your dear children and grandchildren?

 Nothing defiling or unclean will be permitted in God's kingdom. All filthy habits defile a person. Use of improper food defiles a person (Daniel 1:8). It is sobering, but true. Choosing their "own ways" and that in which God "delighted not" will cost people their eternal salvation (Isaiah 66:3, 4, 15-17)."There shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth." Revelation 21:27. "But as for them whose heart walketh after the heart of their detestable things and their abominations, I will recompense their way upon their own heads, saith the Lord God." Ezekiel 11:21. 

Sincere Christians will bring their lives into harmony with God's rules at once, because they love Him. They know that His rules greatly add to their happiness and protect them from the devil's diseases (Acts 10:38). God's counsel and rules are always for our good, just as good parents' rules and counsel are best for their children. And once we know better, God holds us accountable. "To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." James 4:17."Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit." 2 Corinthians 7:1. "Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he [Christ] is pure." 1 John 3:3. "If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15. 

Take all of these habits to Christ and lay them at His feet. He will joyfully give you a new heart and the power you need to break any evil habit and become a son or daughter of God (Ezekiel 11:18, 19). How thrilling and heartwarming it is to know that "with God all things are possible." Mark 10:27. And Jesus says, "Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." John 6:37. Jesus is ready to break the shackles that bind us. He longs to set us free, and will, if only we will permit it. Our worries, evil habits, nervous tensions, and fears will be gone when we do His bidding. He says, "These things have I spoken unto you ... that your joy might be full." John 15:11. The devil argues that freedom is found in disobedience, but this is a falsehood (John 8:44)."As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God." John 1:12. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13. 

The citizens of God's new kingdom will obey His health laws, and there will be no sickness or disease. They will be blessed with eternal vigor and youth and will live with God in supreme joy and happiness throughout all eternity.

"And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick." Isaiah 33:24. "And there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there 

be any more pain." Revelation 21:4. "They shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31. 

Since healthful living truly is a part of what God wants for humanity, it is my plan to follow God's health rules. True or False

Thought Questions
1.   1 Timothy 4:4 says, "Every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused." Can you explain this? (1 Timothy 4:4 ) 

This Scripture passage (verse 3) refers to meats "which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving" by His people. These meats, as we have already discovered, are the clean meats listed in Leviticus chapter 11 and Deuteronomy chapter 14. Verse 4 makes it clear that all creatures of God are good and not to be refused, provided they are among those created to "be received with thanksgiving" (the clean animals). Verse 5 tells why these animals (or foods) are acceptable: they are "sanctified" by God's Word, which says they are clean, and by a "prayer" of blessing, which is offered before the meal. Please note, however, that God will destroy people who try to "sanctify themselves" while eating unclean foods (Isaiah 66:17). 

2.   Matthew 15:11 says, "Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out." How do you explain this? (Matthew 15:11 ) 

The subject in Matthew 15:1-20 is eating without first washing the hands (verse 2). The focus is not eating, but washing. The scribes taught that eating any food without a special ceremonial washing defiled the eater. Jesus said the ceremonial washings were meaningless. In verse 19, He listed certain evils--murders, adulteries, thefts, etc. Then He concluded, "These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man." Verse 20. 

3.   But didn't Jesus cleanse all animals in Peter's vision, as recorded in Acts 10? (Acts 10:13 ) 

No! In fact, the subject of this vision is not animals, but people. God gave Peter this vision to show him that the Gentiles were not unclean, as the Jews believed. God had instructed Cornelius, a Gentile, to send men to visit Peter. But Peter would have refused to see them if God had not given him this vision, because Jewish law forbade entertaining Gentiles (verse 28). But when the men finally did arrive, Peter welcomed them, explaining that ordinarily he would not have done so, but "God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean." Verse 28. In the next chapter (Acts 11), the church members criticized Peter for speaking with these Gentiles. So Peter told them the whole story of his vision and its meaning. And Acts 11:18 says, "When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life." 

4.   What did God make the hog for, if not to eat? (Isaiah 66:17 ) 

He made it for the same purpose that He made the buzzard--as a scavenger to clean up garbage. And the hog serves this purpose admirably. 

5.   Romans 14:3, 14, 20 says: "Let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth." "There is nothing unclean of itself." "All things indeed are pure." Can you explain this? (Romans 14:3 ) 

Verses 3 through 6 are a discussion of those who eat certain things versus those who do not. The passage does not say either is right, but rather counsels that neither pass judgment on the other. Instead, let God be the Judge (verses 4,10-12). Verses 14 and 20 refer to foods that were first offered to idols (and were thus ceremonially unclean)--not to the clean and unclean meats of Leviticus chapter 11. (Read 1 Corinthians 8:1, 4, 10, 13). The point of the discussion is that no food is "unclean" or "impure" just because it has first been offered to idols, because an idol is "nothing in the world." 1 Corinthians 8:4. But if a person's conscience bothers him for eating such food, he should leave it alone. Or even if it merely offends a brother, he should likewise abstain. 

6.   Are health laws and eating and drinking really important to me personally? If I love the Lord, isn't that enough? (Romans 12:1 ) 

They are a matter of life versus death, because these laws involve obedience. "He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him." Hebrews 5:9. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 7:21. Love to Christ is involved here because He says, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15. When we truly love the Lord, we will gladly obey Him without dodging or making excuses. This is the supreme test. 

Seven proofs that show that the Bible is a trustworthy book.

#1. One of the greatest miracles of the Bible is its unity. The 66 books of the Bible were written over an estimated 1,500 years on three continents in three languages by about 40 different people who, in most cases, had never met. Their education and background varied greatly. They were kings, shepherds, scientists, attorneys, an army general, fishermen, priests, and a physician. Yet, though it seems totally inconceivable, the 66 books maintain an amazing consistency and harmony with each other. Jesus Christ Himself said, "Scripture cannot be broken" (John 10:35). The Bible is true and has a basic unity of thought and principles that cannot be broken or contradicted.

One of the foremost Bible scholars of the past century, F.F. Bruce, wrote: "The Bible is not simply an anthology [a collection of books]; there is a unity which binds the whole together ..." (The Books and the Parchments: How We Got Our English Bible, 1984, pp. 88-89).

2. *Fulfilled Prophecies - The remarkable evidence of fulfilled prophecy is just one case that the Bible can be trusted. Hundreds of Bible prophecies have been fulfilled, specifically and meticulously, before the event had taken place. For example, Daniel the prophet predicted that Christ would come as Israel's promised Savior and Prince which was clearly and definitely fulfilled, hundreds of years later.

More than 300 prophecies were fulfilled by Christ Himself at His first coming. Only the Bible manifests this remarkable prophetic evidence, and it does so on such a tremendous scale as to render support for divine revelation.

Do Bible prophecies confirm inspiration? The Bible says, "I am the Lord . . . new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them." Isaiah 42:8, 9. "I am God . . . Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done." Isaiah 46:9, 10.

Bible predictions of things to happen in the future confirm the inspiration of Scripture as they come to pass. Notice the following examples of fulfilled Bible prophecies:

A. Four world empires to arise: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome (Daniel chapters 2, 7, 8).

B. Cyrus to be the warrior to capture Babylon (Isaiah 45:1-3).

C. After Babylon's destruction, it would never be inhabited again (Isaiah 13:19, 20; Jeremiah 51:37).

D. Egypt would never again have a commanding position among the nations (Ezekiel 29:14, 15; 30:12, 13).

E. Earth-shaking calamities and fear toward the end of time (Luke 21:25, 26).

F. Moral degeneracy and decline of spirituality in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

The Old Testament predictions of the Messiah to come were so specific and so clearly fulfilled by Jesus of Nazareth proving that Jesus was, indeed, the Messiah.

There are more than 125 of these prophecies. Let's review just 12 of them:

Prophecy Old Testament Scripture    New Testament Fulfillment

1. Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1

2. Born of a virgin Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-23

3. Of David's lineage Jeremiah 23:5; Revelation 22:16

4. Attempted murder by Herod Jeremiah 31:15; Matthew 2:16-18

5. Betrayal by a friend Psalms 41:9; John 13:18, 19, 26

6. Sold for 30 silver coins Zechariah 11:12; Matthew 26:14-16

7. Crucified Zechariah 12:10; John 19:16-18, 37

8. Lots cast for His clothes Psalms 22:18; Matthew 27:35

9. No bones broken Psalms 34:20; Exodus 12:46; John 19:31-36

10. Buried in rich man's tomb Isaiah 53:9; Matthew 27:57-60

11. Year, day, hour of His death Daniel 9:26, 27; Exodus 12:6; Matthew 27:45-50

12. Raised the third day Hosea 6:2; Acts 10:38-40

Dr. Peter Stoner, former chairman of the departments of mathematics, astronomy, and engineering at Pasadena College (California), worked with 600 students for several years applying the "principle of probability" to the prophecies of the Messiah's coming. They chose just eight from the many available and finally decided the chances of all eight being fulfilled in one man in a lifetime is one in 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000. What would the odds be on the more than 125 prophecies of the Messiah? It couldn't just happen!

3. Accuracy of scientific statements made in the Bible.

The Bible says, "Thy word is true from the beginning." Psalms 119:160.

Here are a few Bible statements that have been confirmed by science:

A. "He . . . hangeth the earth upon nothing." Job 26:7. This scientific fact is from Job, the Bible's oldest book.

B. "He . . . sitteth upon the circle of the earth." Isaiah 40:22. The Bible said the earth is round centuries before man found out.

C. "To make the weight for the winds." Job 28:25. Long before scientists knew, God said air has weight.

D. "By Him [Jesus] all things consist." Colossians 1:17. The word "consist" here literally means "hold together" or "cohere." Many Bible translations put it "hold together." This is the answer to the nuclear physicists' worrisome question about the atom. The real mystery of the atom does not involve its benumbing mega-power, but rather, "Why doesn't the atom fly apart?" Scientific knowledge says it should, but it doesn't. Some scientists are wondering what puzzling power, completely unknown to them, is holding it together. The Bible says that mysterious power is the Creator, God Himself.

• Roundness of the earth (Isaiah 40:22)

• Almost infinite extent of the sidereal universe (Isaiah 55:9)

• Law of conservation of mass and energy (II Peter 3:7)

• Hydrologic cycle (Ecclesiastes 1:7)

• Vast number of stars (Jeremiah 33:22)

• Law of increasing entropy (Psalm 102:25-27)

• Paramount importance of blood in life processes (Leviticus 17:11)

• Atmospheric circulation (Ecclesiastes 1:6)

• Gravitational field (Job 26:7)

4. Historical statements.

The historical accuracy of the Scriptures is likewise in a class by itself. Archeological confirmations of the Biblical record have been almost innumerable in the last century.

Bible historical statements are accurate. What God says in His book is true (Isaiah 45:19). Sometimes, temporarily, evidence may not be found to substantiate certain historical facts from the Bible, but in time the evidence surfaces. Note the following:

A. For years skeptics said the Bible was unreliable because it mentions the Hittite nation (Deuteronomy 7:1) and cities like Nineveh (Jonah 1:1, 2) and Sodom (Genesis 19:1), which they denied ever existed. But now modern archaeology has confirmed that all three did, indeed, exist.

B. Critics also said that Bible-mentioned kings Belshazzar (Daniel 5:1) and Sargon (Isaiah 20:1) never existed. Once again, it has now been confirmed they did exist.

C. Skeptics also said the Bible record of Moses was not reliable because it mentions writing (Exodus 24:4) and wheeled vehicles (Exodus 14:25), neither of which they said existed at the time. They, of course, know better today.

D. At one time the 39 kings of ancient Israel and Judah who reigned during the divided kingdom were authenticated only from the Bible record, so critics charged fabrication. But then archaeologists found cuneiform records that mentioned many of these kings and, once again, the Bible record was proved accurate. Critics have repeatedly been proved wrong as new discoveries confirm biblical people, places, and events. It will always be so.

*The Revised Standard Version of the Bible (C) 1946, 1952, 1971 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission.7.

5. Biblical health principles.

A. Cover body waste with dirt (Deuteronomy 23:12, 13).

The Bible provision of Moses' day that body waste should be buried was 3,500 years ahead of its time and saved countless thousands of Jewish lives. Major problems still arise when sanitation is not properly handled.

B. "Neither let us commit fornication." 1 Corinthians 10:8.

The word "fornication" denotes all kinds of immoral sexual conduct. There would be no AIDS epidemic.

C. Abstain from alcoholic beverages (Proverbs 23:29-32).

Consuming alcohol has brought untold woe to many.

1. Millions have become alcoholics .

1. Millions of homes broken.

3. Multiplied thousands of lives destroyed by intoxicated drivers.

Note: God not only tells us how to succeed with joy amid today's harrowing problems, but He also gives us the miraculous power to do it (1 Corinthians 15:57; Philippians 4:13; Romans 1:16). Bible health principles are relevant and desperately needed, but few are listening.

6. The Bible is intact.

Of all the ancient works of substantial size, only the Bible comes to us completely intact. This is against all odds and expectations. In comparison, William Shakespeare's plays, written only about 400 years ago, and after the invention of the printing press, are in much worse shape. Shakespeare's original words have been lost in numerous sections, and scholars are left to fill in the blanks as best as they can.

But when it comes to the Bible, its uncanny preservation has permitted it to weather thousands of years of wars, persecutions, fires and invasions, and still remain intact. As author Josh McDowell notes: "Compared with other ancient writings, the Bible has more manuscript evidence to support it than any ten pieces of classical literature combined" (The New Evidence That Demands a Verdict, 1999, p. 9).

How was this amazing task accomplished? The Old Testament text was preserved by Jewish scribes through the centuries. Scholars unanimously praise their faithful copying and transmission of the text.

Professor Bernard Ramm explains: "Jews preserved it as no other manuscript has ever been preserved. With their [scribes] they kept tabs on every letter, syllable, word and paragraph. They had special classes of men within their culture whose sole duty was to preserve and transmit these documents with practically perfect fidelity. Who ever counted the letters and syllables and words of Plato or Aristotle or Seneca?" (Protestant Christian Evidences, 1953, pp. 230-231).

What about the New Testament? Here the actual number of preserved manuscripts is so great that it becomes overwhelming.

McDowell writes: "There are more than 5,686 known Greek manuscripts of the New Testament. Add over 10,000 Latin Vulgate and at least 9,300 other early versions, and we have close to, if not more than, 25,000 manuscript copies of portions of the New Testament in existence today. No other document of antiquity even begins to approach such numbers ...

"In comparison, Homer's Iliad is second, with only 643 manuscripts that still survive. The first complete preserved text of Homer dates from the thirteenth century" (p. 34, emphasis added).

Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away" (Matthew 24:35). His words have become a prophecy that is still rock-solid in our day. With billions of Bibles in more than 2,000 languages now distributed around the world, God's Word will by no means pass away.

7. Bible’s Effect

The Bible is unique also in terms of its effect on the lives of individual men and women. It appeals to both hearts and minds of people in every nationality, rich or poor, scholar or simple, king or commoner, men of literally every background and walk of life. As U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt remarked, "A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education." No other book has ever held such universal appeal nor produced such lasting effects.

One more evidence that the Bible is true is found in the testimony of those who have believed it. Multitudes of people, past and present, have found from personal experience that its promises are true, its counsel is sound, its commands and restrictions are wise, and its wonderful message of salvation meets every need for both time and eternity. The Bible yields results!

The final proof of the Bible's inspiration is very simple—apply it and it will work for you. However, reaping its blessings takes faith—an active belief that God's Word is true and that applying it will yield positive results. The Bible puts it this way: "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6).

Moreover, the impact Jesus Christ has had in millions of lives continues unabated. The French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte once said: "I know men and I tell you that Jesus Christ is no mere man. Between Him and every other person in the world there is no possible terms of comparison. Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne, and I have founded empires. But on what did we rest the creations of our genius? Upon force. Jesus Christ founded His empire upon love; and at this hour millions of men would die for him" (quoted by Frank Mead, The Encyclopedia of Religious Quotations, 1965, p. 56).

Historian Philip Schaff adds: "This Jesus of Nazareth, without money and arms, conquered more millions than Alexander, Caesar, Mohammed, and Napoleon. Without science and learning, He shed more light on things human and divine than all philosophers and scholars combined. Without the eloquence of schools, He spoke such words of life as were never spoken before or since and produced effects which lie beyond the reach of orator or poet.

"Without writing a single line, He set more pens in motion, and furnished themes for more sermons, orations, discussions, learned volumes, works of art, and songs of praise, than the whole army of great men of ancient and modern times" (The Person of Christ, 1913, p. 33).

Yes, the bottom line of proving the Bible true and that it should be trusted is that it works in you. Read it, believe it, and follow it. It works!

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17. 

Other Resources

For more information on science and the Bible see Science and the Bible website.

Also see The Bible and Archaeology for information on how archaeology shows the Bible is reliable.

But are most people really interested in knowing and following Bible truth? Could it be that we reject truth (Jesus), because we prefer following our own thinking and drawing our own conclusions. Consider some reasons why the religious leaders of Jesus' day rejected Him as the truth.

• Disliked having the errors in their teachings and practices exposed.
• Closed their eyes to truth because of their pride.
• Lacked love for the truth (John 3:19; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12).
• Failed to diligently search the scriptures regarding the accuracy of Jesus' claims.
• Tended to listen more to the words of their teachers instead of the Word of God. (Isaiah 53).

Sound familiar? The truth was unpopular in Christ's day as it is today, and for some of the same reasons. Unfortunately, many of us have never engaged in an in depth study of the Bible. We often pride ourselves on being students of the Scriptures but in reality do not know them. As a result, we are more inclined to accept doctrines that are not based on scripture but on hearsay. Jesus said, "Ye err not knowing the scriptures" (Matthew 22:29).

The real battle is not between denominations but between truth and error. With each denomination claiming to have truth it is important that we rely on what the Bible teaches. And when we consider the consequences of not following Bible truth we can conclude that it does matter.

Jesus stood in the judgment hall before Pontius Pilate, the Roman procurator and governor of Judea while the leaders of the Sanhedrin and the mob waited outside. They wanted Pilate to accept the verdict of the Sanhedrin and sentence Jesus to death without a public trial. But Pilate could see through their scheme and knew their charges against Jesus were false and could not be substantiated.

“Art Thou the King of the Jews? Pilate asked Jesus. “Sayest thou this thing of thyself or did others tell it thee of Me?” Jesus was inquiring if Pilate’s true reason for his question was a real desire to know truth. But pride prevented Pilate from acknowledging any sincere interest in truth or the mission of Jesus. Wanting to give Pilate an understanding of the true nature of His kingdom, Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world.

If my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now is my kingdom not from hence.”

“Art thou a king, then?” Pilate asked (John 18:37). After affirming Pilate’s question, Jesus further explains elements of His mission by stating, “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth My voice.” Jesus was trying to convey to Pilate that His followers, those who desire to be in His kingdom, hear His voice and are willing to follow Him because they love truth. The door was open for Pilate to enter into a discussion regarding the truth of Jesus’ mission and kingdom.

“Discerning truth depends more upon our attitude toward receiving it and our love for it, than on our capacity to understand it.”

Any desire Pilate might have had in listening further to Jesus did not exceed his concern for his political career. Protecting his self-interest was more important than his love for truth. Not wishing to hear any more, Pilate shrugged his shoulders and said, “What is truth?” (John 14: 6; 18:38). Here was Pilate’s golden opportunity but he chose to become a people pleaser which served his earthly ambitions rather than a desire for truth.

Jesus desired for Pilate to know the truth about His mission and His kingdom that would bring grace and salvation to the world (John 1: 17). Jesus came to bear witness to the truth about the Father. Since He came from the Father, Jesus can show us the way to the Father, the way from earth to heaven (John 6: 32-38). Jesus Christ is the true expression of the Father’s love for sinners.

Like Pilate many of us place more value on our own self-centered agenda. For the sake of gain and recognition we tend to place traditions and requirements of men above requirements of God. The decisions we make bear witness to whether or not our interest is centered in the things of this world or the truth of God.

Pilate’s rhetorical question “What is Truth?” is an important question for each of us today. But how will we respond? Now is our golden opportunity to accept Jesus, the Truth (John 14: 6). Many of us will undoubtedly choose as Pilate did and protect our self-interest and reject truth. But hopefully there will also be those who will say yes to Jesus, the Truth.

Discerning truth depends more upon our attitude toward receiving it and a love for it, than our capacity to understand it. Blaise Pascal, the French philosopher and mathematician, wrote, “God has given us evidence sufficiently clear to convince those with an open heart and mind, yet evidence sufficiently vague so as not to compel those whose hearts and minds are closed.” How will you respond to truth?

A Matter of the Heart

Some Christian groups used to say that we did not have to keep the Ten Commandments, that they were nailed to the cross and to keep them is "salvation by works." In fact the word legalism was often associated with keeping the commandments. Now many Christians want to post a version of them in schools and other public places.

Are the Ten Commandments important today? Absolutely! God considers them important. Solomon wrote that the conclusion of the whole matter of life is to reverence God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of every person. (Ecclesiastes 12: 13). Jesus said "If you love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15). "If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments." (Matthew 19:17).

If we know Him, we keep His Commandments. "He who says I know Him and does not keep His Commandments is a liar and the truth is not in him." (1 John 2:3,4). Not everyone who calls Him Lord or works miracles in His name has really accepted Jesus as Lord. In fact Jesus refers to them as being lawless, which means that they had no regard for His Law. (Matthew 7:21-23).

Ten Commandments are the standard by which God examines people in the heavenly judgment. This makes obeying them a life-or-death matter! "For God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." (Ecclesiastes 12: 14).

The Ten Commandments are a reflection of God's character. The Bible says that God is good, holy, perfect, pure, just, true, spiritual, righteous, faithful, love, unchangeable and eternal. Interestingly the Bible says the same things about His law. Visit our website for more information on this topic.

God's law is like a mirror pointing out sin in our lives. We need to carefully check our lives by the mirror of God's law. The law will direct us to Jesus for cleansing. It brings hope for this mixed-up, morally corrupt society and shows where to draw the line! (James 1:23-25).

Happiness, joy, peace, and more abundant living come to those who obey God's law. No wonder the Psalmist David said that God's commands are more desirable than gold. (Psalms 19:10; Proverbs 3: 1, 2; 29: 18; Psalms 119:165).

God's Ten Commandments in our hearts serve as a guide for what we think, say, and do. Obeying the commandments entitles us to the right to the tree of life, and entrance in through the gates into the Holy City. (Revelation 22:14).

In Conclusion, if we ignore even one of the commandments, we are neglecting part of the divine pattern, or blueprint. If only one link of a chain is broken, its purpose is not fulfilled. The Bible says that when we knowingly break any command of God, we are sinning (James 4:17), because we have refused His will for us.

"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:19). If we don't keep all of them and teach others not to, we will not be a part of God's kingdom. Pastors and Bible teachers beware. Teach and preach all the commandments.

Jesus said that people draw near to Him with their mouth and only honor Him with their lips; but their hearts are far from Him. Their worship of Him is vain, teaching doctrines and commandments of men rather than the teachings of God. (Matthew 15:8, 9; Mark 7:7,9). It's our heart that God wants.

The value and benefit of the Ten Commandments work best in our lives when they are in our hearts. See follow up article next week. For further information go to our website: peopletopeopleministries.com Or you can request a free magazine at Keeping the Ten Commandments.

The Battle Over the Ten Commandments

Over the last few years, there has been an increasing controversy regarding the Ten Commandments. In fact the chief justice of the Alabama Supreme Court lost his job for refusing to remove the two-ton granite monument that sat in the rotunda of the state courthouse. It is one of thousands placed around the country during the 1950's and 1960's by the Fraternal Order of Eagles with the support of Cecil B. DeMille, the director, who was promoting his movie "The Ten Commandments"

There seems to be a growing focus on removing the mention of God from the pledge of allegiance, and much of Bible truth is being eliminated from American life. Some individuals believe that removing the Ten Commandments from American public life has had an impact on our society. Such a conclusion is based on the increase of violence and the lack of morality as expressed in some of our music and movies. It seems as though things are getting worse and worse in our society. According to the Bible (2 Timothy 3:1-5), the last days will be perilous. From the events occurring in society, it appears that we are currently living in those times.

It seems that people have practically no respect for law or constituted authority, either of God or of man! On the international scene, nations rise against nations as the so-called treaties of peace are not worth the paper on which they are written.

While the nation debates where the Ten Commandments should be displayed, it is interesting to note that in the Bible there is no mention of putting them on buildings of any kind. It does, however, mention that God wants them written in our hearts. This term "hear" in scripture is frequently used in referring to various attitudes, emotions, and intelligence. In Exodus 8:32 the hardening of Pharao's heart indicated his attitude of rebellion against God (Hebrews 3:7-10). A stony heart describes a state of spiritual insensitivity and moral indifference (Ezekiel 11:19). God is able to give to us a new heart (Heb. 8:10) indicating a complete change of attitudes, desires, and ambitions (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Christ dwells in the heart by faith (Ephesians 3:17). In many passages in scripture where it mentions a person's heart, it is basically referring to the seat of intelligence (mind)."I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people" God writes His law in our minds that we might understand them and allow them to be the foundation of our thoughts and actions. The Ten Commandments speak of moral responsibility to God and to each other. When we review these precepts they reveal love for God and for one another.

Can our society gain from putting the Ten Commandments on public buildings as artifacts to be displayed? Society will gain from them only if people live by them and allow them to be a moral standard for behavior. If not, we will continue in spiritual chaos, lawlessness, and wretchedness in the human heart.

These commandments aren't called the ten suggestions, ten recommendations, or the ten greatest ideas. They are the Law of God; and keeping them will give people of all nations peace, joy, and happiness. (Micah 4:2). This can only be accomplished with a relationship with the God of heaven through His Son Jesus The Christ.

Where will the Ten Commandments have the most influence, in a rotunda of a courthouse, on a public building, or in our hearts?

View our Bible Study and Quiz on the Ten Commandments.

Above the audience chamber of the Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C., there are figures carved along the edges of the ceiling. One of those figures is holding stone tablets in his right hand. It is believed that the figure is of Moses and the Ten Commandments, the ancient moral code. Over the last few years, there has been an increasing controversy regarding the Ten Commandments. In fact the chief justice of the Alabama Supreme Court lost his job for refusing to remove the two-ton granite monument that sat in the rotunda of the state courthouse. It is one of thousands placed around the country during the 1950’s and 1960’s by the Fraternal Order of Eagles with the support of Cecil B. DeMille, the director, who was promoting his movie “The Ten Commandments.”

There seems to be a growing focus on removing the mention of God from the pledge of allegiance, and much of Bible truth is being eliminated from American life. Some individuals believe that removing the Ten Commandments from American public life has had an impact on our society. Such a conclusion is based on the increase of violence and the lack of morality as expressed in some of our music and movies. It seems as though things are getting worse and worse in our society. According to the Bible (2 Timothy 3: 1-5), the last days will be perilous. From the events occurring in society, it appears that we are currently living in those times.

It seems that people have practically no respect for law or constituted authority, either of God or of man! On the international scene, nations rise against nations as the so-called treaties of peace are not worth the paper on which they are written.

While the nation debates where the Ten Commandments should be displayed, it is interesting to note that in the Bible there is no mention of putting them on buildings of any kind. It does, however, mention that God wants them written in our hearts. This term “heart” in scripture is frequently used in referring to various attitudes, emotions, and intelligence. In Exodus 8:32 the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart indicated his attitude of rebellion against God (Hebrews 3:7-10). A stony heart describes a state of spiritual insensitivity and moral indifference (Ezekiel 11:19). God is able to give to us a new heart (Heb. 8:10) indicating a complete change of attitudes, desires, and ambitions (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Christ dwells in the heart by faith (Ephesians 3:17). In many passages in scripture where it mentions a person’s heart, it is basically referring to the seat of intelligence (mind). “I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” God writes His law in our minds that we might understand them and allow them to be the foundation of our thoughts and actions. The Ten Commandments speak of moral responsibility to God and to each other. When we review these precepts they reveal love for God and for one another.

Can our society gain from putting the Ten Commandments on public buildings as artifacts to be displayed? Society will gain from them only if people live by them and allow them to be a moral standard for behavior. If not, we will continue in spiritual chaos, lawlessness, and wretchedness in the human heart.

These commandments aren’t called the ten suggestions, ten recommendations, or the ten greatest ideas. They are the Law of God; and keeping them will give people of all nations peace, joy, and happiness. (Micah 4:2). This can only be accomplished with a relationship with the God of heaven through His Son Jesus The Christ.

Where will the Ten Commandments have the most influence, in a rotunda of a courthouse, on a public building, or in our hearts?

Use our Bible study on the Ten Commandments to learn more about them.

The "traditions of men" do not have authority over Scripture, although it seems we place more importance upon rituals and traditions than the teachings of the Bible. When this happens the word of God is rendered powerless in our lives. Jesus said that there are those who draw near to Him with their lips (talk), but their heart is far from Him (their life invalidates their profession). In vain do we worship Him, teaching doctrines and commandments of men (Matthew 15:8,9; 7:21-23; Mark 7:6-9). The power to overcome sin is in following the Word of God, written and human form (John 1:1,14).

...convenience.

There are many reasons we attend a particular church. It could be that we were raised in the church, family and friends attend it, the familiar environment, baptized there, married or dedicated there or its proximity to home. Whatever the reason we remain there. But should any of these reasons transcend the importance of truth? Absolutely not! They are subordinate to truth and do not replace the importance of knowing and following truth. Jesus said whoever loves his father, mother, son or daughter more is not worthy of Him (Matthew 10:37). We must be willing to leave comfortable and familiar surroundings, as did Abraham, and follow Jesus the Truth.

...unity.

With so many different Christian doctrines, how do we establish unity in the body of Christ and at what price? We sometimes compromise our beliefs by yielding to the voices of those calling for harmony and cooperation. This is done while sacrificing truth. The popular thinking of the day appears to suggest that all religions are equal and in spite of differences, ultimately lead to God. We are finding that for the sake of unity many religious groups are burying the old hatchets of doctrinal differences and beginning to see eye to eye. True unity of God's people is always based upon truth. Jesus prayed for His followers to be one as He and His Father are one (John 17:21). God has called His people to uphold unity on the platform of truth and not sacrifice it for the appearance of unity. Only by following the leading of the Holy Spirit who will guide and lead to truth can we achieve true unity.

...popularity.

Following the crowd has often proven to be wrong but dangerous as in the case of the antediluvians in the time of Noah (Luke 17:26). Only eight people went into the ark to be saved from the flood. Sodom and Gomorrah is another example of how it is not always wise to follow the crowd. Christ said, "...wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it" (Matthew 7:13,14). Jesus also said "That which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God" (Luke 16:15). Truth has never been popular with the masses. And those in the majority today, as in ages past are not really looking for truth as much as they are looking for a religion that will allow them to live as they want to live.

...sincerity.

Sincerity coupled with error can be deadly. In fact it doesn't count for anything—unless it is coupled with truth. Sincerity of the heart is praiseworthy and necessary for faith, but it is not an acceptable substitute for following truth. One can be sincere, yet sincerely wrong. For instance, there are people who practice "snake handling" as part of their religious beliefs. As a result some have died. This practice may be performed out of a heart of sincerity but if what they are doing is based on false doctrine it can be deadly. People have also believed the second coming of Jesus was to occur on a specific date. They were sincere, but they were wrong. The Bible says, no man knows the day or hour not even the angels in heaven (Mark 13:32; Matthew 24:42). Our sincerity is founded in understanding Scripture and conforming our lives to it. Just as sincerity does not negate natural law, neither does it cancel spiritual law.