Holy Saints of Calvary Apostolic Templar Church

12/11/2023

If you want a quick and fun book to read. Then check out, Nikolaos by Dr. Taylor Marshall. This is a must read for all. It will give you a different perspective. Enjoy!

Nikolaos: A Retelling of the Saint Nicholas Story

08/20/2023

As Christians, we are called to be more than just believers; we are called to be examples to the world around us. Our faith is not meant to be a private affair, confined within the walls of our churches or the solitude of our hearts. Instead, it is meant to be a shining light that illuminates the path for others to follow.

When we look to the life of Jesus Christ, we see the ultimate example of how we should live. Jesus set the standards high for mankind, not in a way that was unattainable, but in a way that showed us the depth of love, compassion, and selflessness we are capable of. He taught us that true greatness is found in serving others, in putting their needs before our own. He showed us that forgiveness is a transformative act, one that has the power to heal and restore relationships. He exemplified humility, choosing to wash the feet of his disciples, a task typically reserved for servants.

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus tells us, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” These words remind us that our faith is not meant to be kept hidden, but to be lived out in the open for all to see. We are called to be a beacon of hope, love, and truth in a world that often feels dark and uncertain.

Setting the example as Christians means living a life that reflects the teachings of Christ. It means showing kindness to our neighbors, even when it’s inconvenient. It means speaking words of encouragement and lifting others up instead of tearing them down. It means living with integrity and honesty, even when no one is watching. It means extending a hand of friendship to the marginalized, the outcast, and the forgotten. It means standing up for justice and righteousness, even when it’s unpopular.

But setting the example doesn’t mean pretending to be perfect. We all fall short at times, and that’s where grace comes in. Just as Jesus forgave and restored Peter after his denial, we too can find forgiveness and renewal when we stumble. Our imperfections serve as a reminder of our need for God’s mercy and the ongoing work of transformation within us.

As we strive to set the example, we must remember that it’s not about seeking recognition or applause. It’s about glorifying God and pointing others towards Him. Our actions should draw attention to the source of our strength and the reason for our hope. When others see the love we have for one another, the way we selflessly serve, and the way we navigate challenges with faith, they are witnessing a reflection of Christ’s love for us.

In a world that often promotes selfishness, materialism, and division, our role as Christians becomes all the more vital. We are called to counteract these tendencies by embodying the transformative power of Christ’s teachings. Let us remember that Jesus set the standards high for mankind, not as an unattainable goal, but as an invitation to embrace a life of purpose, compassion, and unwavering faith. By doing so, we fulfill our calling to be the light of the world and bring glory to our Heavenly Father.

08/16/2023

Today's Bible Study:

The statement “Love the sinner but hate the sin” cannot be found in the Bible. Unfortunately, it is common for people to assume that statements they hear in movies produced by Hollywood or hear from friends are biblical. Another statement that cannot be found in the Bible is “God helps those who help themselves.” That does not appear in the Bible either.

Many Christians use the cliché “Love the sinner; hate the sin.” This saying is not found in the Bible in so many words; however, Jude 1:22–23 contains a similar idea: “Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.” According to this, our evangelism should be characterized by mercy for the sinner and a healthy hatred of sin and its effects.

Are We To Hate the Sin?

It is clear from scripture that God hates sin (Psalm 5:4) and wants us to hate sin also (Proverbs 8:13). In Romans 7:21-25 it is clear that the apostle Paul struggled with sin and wanted to be free of sin in his flesh. Therefore, it is true that we are to hate sin. Jesus became a man so that He could die in our place so that our sins could be forgiven. God hates sin and we should also!

Are We To Love Those Who Sin?
The Bible also teaches us to love others, even our enemies (Luke 6:27). If someone is an enemy, they are sinning or acting wickedly.

But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28 (NASB)

Notice that we are to bless those who wish evil and pray for them. That is a wonderful example of loving those who do evil. Yet, we are to hate the evil they commit, or which we may commit or have committed too!

Someone might think Psalm 5:4-5 reveals that God hates sinners.

For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness;
No evil dwells with You.
The boastful shall not stand before Your eyes;
You hate all who do iniquity. Psalm 5:4-5 (NASB)

But other verses teach that God loves us (John 3:16). Therefore, we must conclude that Psalm 5:4-5 and other passages teach that in comparison to God’s love for His godly ones, He hates the wicked or sinners because of their sin. For example, Yet, God still loves them.

The closest verse in the Bible to the statement “Love the sinner but hate the sin” occurs in Ezekiel 33:11.

Say to them, “As I live!” declares the Lord GOD, “I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways! Why then will you die, O house of Israel?” Ezekiel 33:11 (NASB)

Conclusion:
In Ezekiel 33:11 God clearly states that He is not glad when the wicked die. That reveals He loves the wicked, but He still hates their sin. He wants the wicked to turn away from their sin. This is a great lesson for everyone, that we are to hate sin, including the sin in our own lives and love everyone. We can take great comfort and joy that God loves us and the wicked too (Romans 5:8)!

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NASB)

The statement may not exist in the Bible, but the principle exists in the Bible. It is important to understand that God loves and judges us. His judgments are true and righteous. He does not judge as we judge (Revelation 16:7).

The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. Psalm 19:9 (NASB)

This concludes today's lesson. Stay blessed!

05/20/2023

01/09/2023

Today's Reflection of Faith & Wisdom....

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people." (Jeremiah 31:33)

Covenant with God

Christian, here is all you require. To make you happy you want something that shall satisfy you, and is not this enough? For many people the concept of a covenant is a foreign idea. But to the writers of the New and the Old Testament, it was necessary, of vital importance that we understand. For it comes from the very heart of the Gospel.

Because the word “testament” today is synonymous with the basic idea of a Will. But in Biblical thought, a testament or covenant isn’t a Will. It’s an agreement, an obligation. However, unlike a will, a covenant doesn’t take effect when you die, although conditional, its effects are immediate. A biblical covenant between two parties is more like what we consider as a contract today. There are obligations for both sides to keep. Jesus gave us his portion but it’s up to us to meet our obligations.

"Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant." (Hebrews 9:15)

A covenant is established by setting out the rights as well as the responsibilities and obligations for BOTH SIDES. And a good covenant was one where both parties were satisfied with what was agreed. In other words, a good covenant is one in which you have a win-win situation rather than a win-lose.

The Covenant of God with his people is explained in more detail in Deuteronomy.

“And he declared to you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, that is, the Ten Commandments, and he wrote them on two tablets of stone." (Deuteronomy 4:13)

In other words, our responsibilities in the Covenant with God requires us to live the way God wants us to live. As Christians, we keep the Commandments God has given us not because we're trying to earn our salvation, but because we as Christians have accepted Christ and entered into a covenant with God.

It is a covenant that we freely accept and try to keep because we love Him. But there is something special about the new Covenant in Christ to which Jeremiah alluded in our topic Scripture today;

"I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people." (Jeremiah 31:33)

He tells us that no longer will the law of God be written on tablets of stone as it was in Moses’ day, but on God’s people hearts! In the New Testament, we are reminded of God’s Covenant with us by the bread and the wine in Holy Communion, each week.

"Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." (Matthew 26:26-28)

Holy communion uses bread as a symbol of the body of Jesus and wine as a symbol of His blood. The act of taking communion does not save us, it is an act of worship and remembrance. Through communion we are reminded that Jesus died on the Cross to take away our sins, but so often we forget that we have obligations too. We have the right to be called Sons and Daughters of God, but we have the responsibility to live as Sons and Daughters of God as well.

When we accept Christ, and when we take communion in remembrance, then we acknowledge the covenant God made with us. Paul gives us advice on how we should be,

"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:1-2)

But as a believer we seek more than present delights, we crave something in which we may exercise hope, and what more can you hope for than the fulfillment of this great promise, "I will be their God"? This is God's masterpiece of all the promises, its enjoyment makes it all worth everything. Dwell in the light of your Lord, and let your soul be always ravished with His love. Live up to your privileges and rejoice with unspeakable joy. Have a blessed, yours in Christ!

01/08/2023

Today's Reflection of Faith & Wisdom....

"But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction." (2 Peter 2:1)

False Prophets and Teachers

Now here is what I call a Paper Prophet (otherwise known as; charismatic or prosperity preachers), because they will do what it takes to get people to spend their hard-earned money on what they are preaching about, no matter the consequences. Fulfilling that next meal ticket at the expense of getting their followers to spend their money partially due to their popularity and how well they make others believe what they are saying to be truthful (deception plays a huge roll here).

There comes a point when you preach false core values or misrepresent the bible in any way, thinking you’re doing it for God and then the devil rears his ugly head and says gotchya! This kind of thing resurfaced when someone showed me a picture of whom people are calling Christ.

We begin by acknowledging not just the possibility of false teaching, but the certainty of it. We should not be surprised to find false teaching in the church today. Jesus and his apostles are very clear that false teachers will arise. They promise it.

There is a good example of that with Paula White, where eventually God will call you out when you serve another making them or their idols a master before the one true God above.

The story of serving 2 masters would seem to apply here. Both Matthew and Luke give us incredible insight about this very topic.

"No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." (Matthew 6:24, Luke 16:13)

Then if we were to dig further, we could add scripture related to the root of evil, which we can clearly see by Paula's keen prowess in asking for her followers to cough up the cash for their own resurrection. Her message is, literally, believing (and donating!) to her religious cause, to her church(s), that will not only save your soul, but it will assuredly make you successful and rich at the same time, like her!

"But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs." (1 Timothy 6:9-10)

Only the devil could make someone feel so bold and confident to step out on a deceptive walk of false faith to ask their followers to give them money all while giving them the expectations they are planting a "resurrection seed". The devil has a tendency to give people just enough leeway to feel comfortable in their position of what they are doing, right before he tightens that noose around their neck.

Jesus warned us that "false Christs and false prophets" will come and will attempt to deceive even God's elect, (Mat. 24:23-27, Jude 1) the best way to guard yourself against this type of deception, falsehood and false teachers, is to know the truth.

"And he said, “See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them." (Luke 21:8)

"As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray." (Matthew 24:3-5)

"Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect." (Matthew 24:23-24)

"And then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘Look, there he is!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand." (Mark 13:21-23)

Make sure you let others know. Christ will come with the sound of the trumpet.

"For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. " (1 Thessalonians 4:16)

Just as clever schemes have conned many people, it is possible for Christians, even the most devout believers, to be deceived by false teachers. So, we shouldn't be caught off guard that false teachers have been around throughout church history and have multiplied today. Jesus makes it clear so that we won’t miss it: You will recognize them by their fruits. Still many will be deceived. Just be aware and very careful of the wolves disguised as sheep. Have a blessed day, yours in Christ!

12/14/2022

Today's Reflection of Faith & Wisdom....

“Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” (1 Samuel 17:45)

Walk In Faith

Our faith in God (and Christ) comes through hearing and understanding the Word of God. A key factor in our ability to believe God unconditionally are the teachings and continuous study of the Bible. Paul instructed Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15 to study the word of God so that he will have the confidence he needs to be able to teach it truthfully but warns not to listen to irrelevant babble/gossip. What Paul was directing Timothy to do was to study and understand so that he could not be shaken by the thoughts and/or beliefs of others.

Today, I'd like to encourage you to do the same. Start with 5/10 minutes a day to begin to study so that you won't be shaken when someone questions your faith.

How many of you ever played the game “hide and seek” as children? The object of the game is to find the one(s) who is hiding. At the beginning of the game, someone is chosen to be the seeker and everyone else hides and the seeker must find them. If a person who is supposed to hide just stands out in the open or hid somewhere that is obvious, the seeker will find them easily. But the goal is to make it back to the base point before the seeker finds and touches you.

Our relationship with God in some ways is similar to this game. Consider the following verse Isaiah 45:15:

“Truly, You are a God who hides Himself, O God of Israel, Savior! (Isaiah 45:15)

Isaiah says God has hidden himself so if we are to have a relationship with Him, we must go and find Him. It's not because He is lost it is that we must go and seek Him out. If you think about the game, if the seeker does not go and search for those who are hidden, will they ever find them? Absolutely not and the game would not really be a game.

In our relationship with God, we must go and seek Him out, but to find Him requires us to have some faith. Because although we may find Him, we cannot see or touch Him in our natural state. To have a relationship with God, we must accept that He is who He says through faith. Let’s take a look at Matthew 6:33 and 7:7-8.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened." (Matthew 7:7-8)

Matthew 6:33 states that we should seek His kingdom, seek God. In Matthew 7:7 it states that we seek and we will find. So if God is not readily visible with proof that He exists and if we are to have a relationship with Him, then we must seek Him out. Matthew says if we seek Him we will find Him, it stands to reason that those who do not know God have not been seeking Him.

For the atheist to believe that God exists they must first seek to find Him or pursue thought that He exists. As long they do not seek Him they will never find Him and therefore He will never exist to them. What we need to understand is that even though God desires that all would come to knowledge of Him and be saved; not everyone will. Not everyone will seek Him and some who do, only do it half-heartily.

If you are playing the game of hide and seek and the seeker only half-heartily looked for you that would not be a lot of fun. The gamer usually stops when players get tired of hiding; the seeker cannot find players or players get bored. If none of these things happen, the game continues to go on until one of them does. It is impossible to have a relationship with God if you are not seeking Him. If you are waiting for someone to present Him to you, then you will never truly find Him.

What does it mean to walk faithfully with God?

When we walk with God, it may not make things easy but it makes them possible. Walking with him gives us assurance of his presence and power in our lives. Our God is powerful and with him all things are possible. We can endure trials and heartache. Because of Christ's resurrection power in us, we can overcome.

Remember, when someone is led to Christ, it does not stop once they accept Him, that is simply the beginning. At that point is when the real work starts. As fellow believers we must teach them and help them to find Him for themselves. It is their personal knowledge and belief based on what they know that will sustain them in their relationship. Have a blessed day, yours in Christ!