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The Names of Jesus by Jack Kettler

The name of Jesus is noteworthy in New Testament usage in that it is comparable the use of the name of God in the Old Testament. See The Name of God and Public Worship
or go to: http://www.undergroundnotes.com/names.html

The original Hebrew-Aramaic name of Jesus is yeshu‘a, which is short for yehōshu‘a or Joshua. The etymological account of the name Jesus is as follows: in Hebrew/Aramaic yeshu‘a became Greek Iēsous, then Latin Iesus, and then into English as Jesus.

Here is just some of what the Scripture says about the name of Jesus:

“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20)

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become Children of God, to those who believe in His name.” (John 1:12)

“And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.” (Acts 3:16)

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” ( Acts 4:12)

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, given thanks to God the father through Him.” (Colossians 3:17)

When you study the names of Jesus in Scripture, you’ll see Him in a more profound way.

The following is an abbreviated list of names of the Lord Jesus Christ appearing in the New Testament and His prophetic names appearing in the Old Testament:

Almighty
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:8)

Alpha And Omega
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:8)

Apostle of our Profession
“Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession.” (Hebrews 3:1)

Amen
“And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: ‘The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation.” (Revelation 3:14)

Author and Finisher
“Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2)

Beloved
“To the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.” (Ephesians 1:6)

Beloved Servant
“Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.” (Matthew 12:18)

Blessed And Only Potentate
“Which he will display at the proper time – he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords.” (1 Timothy 6:15)

Beginning of God’s Creation
“And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: ‘The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation.” (Revelation 3:14)

Branch
“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.” (Isaiah 11:1)

Bread of Life
“Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35)

Bridegroom
“And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (Matthew 9:15)

Bright Morning Star
“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16)

Captain of Salvation
“For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering.” (Hebrews 2:10)

Chief Shepherd
“And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” (1 Peter 5:4)

Carpenter
“Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us? And they took offense at him.” (Mark 6:3)

Chosen One
“And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!” (Luke 23:35)

Consolation of Israel
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.” (Luke 2:25)

Christ of God
“Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” (Luke 9:20)

Chief Cornerstone
“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:20)

Dayspring
“Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us.” (Luke 1:78)

Deliverer
“And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob.” (Romans 11:26)

Desire of The Nations
“And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts.” (Haggai 2:7 )

Door
“I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.” (John 10:9)

Elect of God
“Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.” (Isaiah 42:1)

Everlasting Father
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

Faithful Witness
“And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.” (Revelation 1:5)

First and Last
“When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last.” (Revelation 1:17)

First Begotten
“And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.” (Revelation 1:5)

Forerunner
“Where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:20)

Glory of The Lord
“And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” (Isaiah 40:5)

God
“A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” (Isaiah 40:3)

God Blessed
“To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.” (Romans 9:5)

Good Shepherd
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11(

Governor
“And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.” (Matthew 2:6)

Great High Priest
“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.” (Hebrews 4:14)

Head of the Church
“For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.” (Ephesians 5:23)

High Priest, Apostle
“Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession.” (Hebrews 3:1)

Holy One
“What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” (Mark 1:24)

Hope
“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope.” (1 Timothy 1:1)

Horn of Salvation
“And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David.” (Luke 1:69)

I Am
“Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” (John 8:58)

Image of the Invisible God
“In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:4)

Jesus
“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

Judge
“Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8)

Lamb
“And all who dwell on earth will worship it, everyone whose name has not been written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slain.” (Revelation 13:8)

Lamb of God
“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

Leader and Commander
“Behold, I made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander for the peoples.” (Isaiah 55:4)

The Life
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

Light of the World
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

Lion of the Tribe of Judah
“And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.” (Revelation 5:5)

Lord of All
“As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all).” (Acts 10:36)

Lord of Glory
“None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” (1 Corinthians 2:8)

Lord of our Righteousness
“In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’ (Jeremiah 23:6)

Living Water
“Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” (John 4:10)

Lord of Lords
“On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.” (Revelation 19:16)

King of the Jews
“Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2:2)

Man of Sorrows
“He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.” (Isaiah 53:3)

Mediator
“For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5)

Master
“And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Matthew 8:19)

Messenger of the Covenant
“Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts.” (Malachi 3:1)

Messiah
“Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.” (Daniel 9:25)

Mighty God
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

Mighty One
“You shall suck the milk of nations; you shall nurse at the breast of kings; and you shall know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.” (Isaiah 60:16)

Morning Star
“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16)

Nazarene
“And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:23)

Only Begotten Son
No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.” (John 1:18)

Our Passover
“Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” (1 Corinthians 5:7)

Prince Of Life
“And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.” (Acts 3:15)

Prince of Kings
“And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.” (Revelation 1:5)

Prince of Peace
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

Prophet
“When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!” (John 6:14)

Redeemer
“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.” (Job 19:25)

Resurrection and the Life
“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” (John 11:25)

Rock
“And all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.” (1 Corinthians 10:4)

Root of David
“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16)

Rose of Sharon
“I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.” (Song of Solomon 2:1)

Savior
“They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42)

Shepherd
“For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” (1 Peter 2:25)

Shiloh
“The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be.” (Genesis 49:10)

Son of God
“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.” (Hebrews 4:14)

Son of the Blessed
“But he remained silent and made no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” (Mark 14:61)

Son of David
“The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.” (Matthew 1:1)

Son of the Highest
“He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David.” (Luke 1:32)

Sun of Righteousness
“But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.” (Malachi 4:2)

The Just One
“Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers.” (Acts 7:52)

True Vine
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.” (John 15:1)

The Way, the Truth, and the Life
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

Wisdom of God
“But to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:24)

Wonderful Counselor
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

Word
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)

In conclusion, we can agree with the apostle Paul:

“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him a name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

The Name of God and Public Worship by Jack Kettler

Public worship and heavenly reality:

The apostle Paul, makes the statement that during worship we are seated with Christ in heaven, specifically; “and made us sit together in heavenly places” (Ephesians 2:6). Jesus our King is enthroned at the Father’s right hand, and we, through our union with Him, are led in heavenly worship by the King Jesus; “Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee” (Hebrews 2:12).

“Our Help is in the Name of the Lord.” (Psalm 124:8)

God’s name, elicits praise! We are to Praise His Glorious Name!

A Christian definition of praise to God: is the joyful thanking and adoring of God, the celebration of His goodness and grace.1

“I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.” (Psalm 7:17)

“Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.” (Psalm 66:2)

“Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!” (Psalm 72:19)

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” (Psalm 100:4)

“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” (Psalm 103:1)

“From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD’S name is to be praised.” (Psalm 113:3)

“Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his glory is above the earth and heaven.” (Psalm 148:13)

The following is an abbreviated list of God’s revealed names and attributes:

A Hebrew Name for God is Adonai. Adonai is the plural of Adon, meaning “Lord, LORD, or master.”

Adonai – The Lord My Great Lord

But Abram said, “O Lord GOD, [Jehovah Adonai] what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” (Genesis 15:2)

A Hebrew Name of God is El. The word El comes from a root word meaning “might, strength, or power.”

El – The Strong One

The God [el] who equipped me with strength [chayil] and made my way blameless. (Psalm 18:32)

El Elohe Yisrael – The God of Israel

You, LORD God [elohim Yhvh] of hosts, are God of Israel [Yisrael]. Rouse yourself to punish all the nations; spare none of those who treacherously plot evil. Selah (Psalms 59:5)

El Elyon – The God Most High

And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God [el] Most High [elyown]. And he blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram by God [el] Most High, [elyown] Possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God [el] Most High, [elyown] who has delivered your enemies into your hand!” And Abram gave him a tenth of everything. (Genesis 14:18-20)

Elohim – The God of Hosts

Restore us, O God [elohim] of hosts; [tsaba] let your face shine, that we may be saved! (Psalms 80:7)

El Olam – The Eternal God

That this is God, [eloheinu] our God [elohim] forever and ever. He will guide us forever [olam]. (Psalms 48:14)

El Roi – The God Who Sees me

So she called the name of the LORD [Yhvh] who spoke to her, “You are a God [el] of seeing, [roi] ” for she said, “Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.” (Genesis 16:13)

El Hakabodh – The GOD of Glory

The voice of the LORD [Yhvh] is over the waters; the God [el] of glory thunders, the LORD, [Yhvh] over many waters. (Psalms 29:3)

El Gibbor – The Mighty God

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, [el] Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

El Bethel – GOD of the House of GOD

And there he built an altar and called the place El-bethel, because there God [elohim] had revealed himself to him when he fled from his brother. (Genesis 35:7)

El Shaddai – The All Sufficient One; The God of the Mountains

When Abram was ninety-nine years old the LORD [Yhvh] appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God [El-Shaddai] Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” (Genesis 17:1,2)

Immanuel – God With Us

Therefore the Lord [Adonay] himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14)

As seen in Isaiah, we run into a prophecy about the Messiah, which states His name will be Immanuel. Immanuel literally means “God is with us.” This is important because Jesus is God in flesh.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us . . . ,” (John 1:1, 14).

For in Him [Jesus] all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form,” (Colossians 2:9).

“I am Jehovah: this is my name: and my glory I will not give to another.” (Isaiah 42:8)

Jehovah (/dʒᵻˈhoʊvə/ jə-HOH-və) is a Latinization of the Hebrew יְהֹוָה, one vocalization of the Tetragrammaton יהוה (YHWH), the proper name of the God of Israel in the Hebrew Bible.2

Jehovah (YHWH) – “I AM;” The One Who Is; The Self-Existent One

These are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD [Yhvh] God [elohim] made the earth and the heavens. (Genesis 2:4)

Jehovah-Jireh – The Lord Will Provide

So Abraham called the name of that place, “The LORD [Yhvh] will provide” [raah]; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the LORD [Yhvh] it shall be provided.” (Genesis 22:14)

Jehovah-Nissi – The Lord is My Banner

And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, The LORD [Yhvh] Is My Banner [nes]. (Exodus 17:15)

Jehovah-Shalom – The Lord is Peace

Then Gideon built an altar there to the LORD [Yhvh] and called it, The LORD [Yhvh] Is Peace [shalom]. To this day it still stands at Ophrah, which belongs to the Abiezrites. (Judges 6:24)

Jehovah Metsudhathi – The LORD My High Tower

The LORD [Yhvh] is my rock and my fortress [matsuwd] and my deliverer, my God, [el] my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalms 18:2)

Jehovah-Rapha – The Lord Who Heals

“If you will diligently listen to the voice of the LORD [Yhvh] your God, [elohim] and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, [Yhvh] your healer.” (Exodus 15:26)

Jehovah-Rohi – The Lord is My Shepherd

A Psalm of David. The LORD [Yhvh] is my shepherd; [ra’ah] I shall not want. (Psalms 23:1)

Jehovah-Sabaoth – The Lord of Hosts

Now this man used to go up year by year from his city to worship and to sacrifice to the LORD [Yhvh] of hosts [tsaba] at Shiloh, where the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests of the LORD. [Yhvh] (1 Samuel 1:3)

Jehovah-Shammah – The Lord My Companion

The circumference of the city shall be 18,000 cubits. And the name of the city from that time on shall be, The LORD [Yhvh] Is There [shammah].” (Ezekiel 48:35)

Jehovah-Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness

In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The LORD [Yhvh] is our righteousness’ [tsedeq]. (Jeremiah 23:6)

Theos is the Greek word translated “God.” Theos is the principal name for God used in the New Testament.

Kurios is the Greek word translated “Lord.” Stresses authority and supremacy. It is used largely as the equivalent of Yahweh of the Old Testament.

The benediction is an act or pronouncement of blessing, literally, placing God’s name upon His people. In the Old Testament, the Aaronic benediction was given to Aaron and his sons as a part of their ministry in God’s behalf towards His people (Numbers 6:22-27). The New Testament parallel is the apostolic benediction, (2 Corinthians 13:14) which reflects God’s favor toward His people.

In conclusion, at the beginning of worship, throughout the service, including the final benediction, God glorifies His Name and we in response give praise to His Name! As congregates go, the minister places God’s name upon the members of God’s Church.

Notes:
1. Definition from the NIV Bible
2. Definition from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehovah

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

“The Heavens Declare the Glory of God” Psalms 19:1-6 A Devotional by Jack Kettler

{To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.}
The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
ridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof. (Psalms 19:1-6)

This Psalm has tremendous apologetic value, because all creation testifies of God’s glory; For example, “his handywork is seen in creation.” And, “there is no pace in heaven or earth where His voice in not heard.” In the New Testament book of Romans, the apostle Paul refers to Psalm 19 and in particular 19:4. “But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world” (Romans 10:18). Fallen man may try and evade this testimony, yet he cannot escape it. Redeemed man, marvels at this powerful all encompassing testimony.

In verses 1-6 of the Psalm, David shows that the creation, the heavens and the earth, proclaim God’s existence everywhere. There is nowhere man can go to hide from or escape this testimony. This creation testimony is what is known in theology as “general revelation,” in contrast to “special revelation.” Special revelation is the testimony of Scripture. These two types of revelation are not opposed. They work in harmony. God is the author of both.

To start our devotional exegesis of the Psalm, Matthew Henry’s general observations provide an excellent over-view:

19:1-6 The heavens so declare the glory of God, and proclaim his wisdom, power, and goodness, that all ungodly men are left without excuse. They speak themselves to be works of God’s hands; for they must have a Creator who is eternal, infinitely wise, powerful, and good. The counter-changing of day and night is a great proof of the power of God, and calls us to observe, that, as in the kingdom of nature, so in that of providence, he forms the light, and creates the darkness, Isa 45:7, and sets the one against the other. The sun in the firmament is an emblem of the Sun of righteousness, the Bridegroom of the church, and the Light of the world, diffusing Divine light and salvation by his gospel to the nations of the earth. He delights to bless his church, which he has espoused to himself; and his course will be unwearied as that of the sun, till the whole earth is filled with his light and salvation. Let us pray for the time when he shall enlighten, cheer, and make fruitful every nation on earth, with the blessed salvation. They have no speech or language, so some read it, and yet their voice is heard. All people may hear these preachers speak in their own tongue the wonderful works of God. Let us give God the glory of all the comfort and benefit we have by the lights of heaven, still looking above and beyond them to the Sun of righteousness.1

Henry concludes his comments with the summary of what the Psalmist has observed when he says:

“Let us give God the glory of all the comfort and benefit we have by the lights of heaven, still looking above and beyond them to the Sun of righteousness.”

Known as the prince of theologians, John Calvin is lucid and logical in his exegesis of Psalm 19:1:

“1. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork”
1. The heavens declare the glory of God. I have already said, that this psalm consists of two parts, in the first of which David celebrates the glory of God as manifested in his works; and, in the other, exalts and magnifies the knowledge of God which shines forth more clearly in his word. He only makes mention of the heavens; but, under this part of creation, which is the noblest, and the excellency of which is more conspicuous, he doubtless includes by synecdoche the whole fabric of the world. There is certainly nothing so obscure or contemptible, even in the smallest corners of the earth, in which some marks of the power and wisdom of God may not be seen; but as a more distinct image of him is engraven on the heavens, David has particularly selected them for contemplation, that their splendor might lead us to contemplate all parts of the world. When a man, from beholding and contemplating the heavens, has been brought to acknowledge God, he will learn also to reflect upon and to admire his wisdom and power as displayed on the face of the earth, not only in general, but even in the minutest plants. In the first verse, the Psalmist repeats one thing twice, according to his usual manner. He introduces the heavens as witnesses and preachers of the glory of God, attributing to the dumb creature a quality which, strictly speaking, does not belong to it, in order the more severely to upbraid men for their ingratitude, if they should pass over so clear a testimony with unheeding ears. This manner of speaking more powerfully moves and affects us than if he had said, The heavens show or manifest the glory of God. It is indeed a great thing, that in the splendor of the heavens there is presented to our view a lively image of God; but, as the living voice has a greater effect in exciting our attention, or at least teaches us more surely and with greater profit than simple beholding, to which no oral instruction is added, we ought to mark the force of the figure which the Psalmist uses when he says, that the heavens by their preaching declare the glory of God.
The repetition which he makes in the second clause is merely an explanation of the first. David shows how it is that the heavens proclaim to us the glory of God, namely, by openly bearing testimony that they have not been put together by chance, but were wonderfully created by the supreme Architect. When we behold the heavens, we cannot but be elevated, by the contemplation of them, to Him who is their great Creator; and the beautiful arrangement and wonderful variety which distinguish the courses and station of the heavenly bodies, together with the beauty and splendor which are manifest in them, cannot but furnish us with an evident proof of his providence. Scripture, indeed, makes known to us the time and manner of the creation; but the heavens themselves, although God should say nothing on the subject, proclaim loudly and distinctly enough that they have been fashioned by his hands: and this of itself abundantly suffices to bear testimony to men of his glory. As soon as we acknowledge God to be the supreme Architect, who has erected the beauteous fabric of the universe, our minds must necessarily be ravished with wonder at his infinite goodness, wisdom, and power.2

Calvin zooms in on the apologetic power of David’s words: “David shows how it is that the heavens proclaim to us the glory of God, namely, by openly bearing testimony that they have not been put together by chance, but were wonderfully created by the supreme Architect.”

The redeemed, will rejoice in response to David’s testimony of God’s glory in the Psalm.

Commentator Matthew Poole makes the following observations on Psalm 19:1:

The design of this Psalm is to adore and magnify the name of God, for the discovery of his wisdom, and power, and goodness, both by his great and glorious works of creation and providence, and especially by his word and the Holy Scripture; which he prefers before the former.
The heavens declare the glory of God, Psalm 19:1. So do night and day, Psalm 19:2,3, and the sun, Psalm 19:4-6. The perfection, purity, and extent of God’s law; its effects, Psalm 19:7-12. He prayeth against presumptuous sins, Psalm 19:13.
The heavens; these visible heavens, so vast and spacious, richly adorned with stars, so various and admirable in their course or station, so useful and powerful in their influences.
Declare; not properly, but objectively, as the earth, and trees, and stars are said to speak, Job 12:8 38:7 Isaiah 55:12; they demonstrate or make it evident and undeniable to all men of sense or reason; they are as a most legible book, wherein even he that runs may read it.
The glory of God, i.e. his glorious being or existence, his eternal power and Godhead, as it is particularly expressed, Romans 1:20; his infinite wisdom and goodness; all which are so visible in them, that it is ridiculous to deny or doubt of them, as it is esteemed ridiculous to think of far meaner works of art, as a house or a book, &c., that they were made without an artist, or without a hand.
The firmament; or, the expansion, i.e. all this vast space extended from the earth to the highest heavens, with all its goodly furniture, the same thing which he called heavens.
Showeth his handywork; the excellency of the work discovers who was the author of it, that it did not come by chance, nor spring of itself, but was made by the Lord God Almighty.3

Poole sees the apologetic value when he focuses on the objective power of the creation testimony.

Poole says:

“Declare; not properly, but objectively, as the earth, and trees, and stars are said to speak, Job 12:8 38:7 Isaiah 55:12; they demonstrate or make it evident and undeniable to all men of sense or reason; they are as a most legible book, wherein even he that runs may read it.”

Since the apostle referenced Psalm 19 in Romans 10:18, there is no doubt that Paul has Psalm 19 in view when he indites man and declares:

“Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities–his eternal power and divine nature–have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.” (Romans 1:19-22)

Psalm 19:4 has in particular, two parallel passages:

“Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” (Acts 14:17)

“But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you;” (Job 12:7)

In a similar way, Isaiah reminds us of God’s creation testimony:

“Lift up your eyes on high And see who has created these stars, The One who leads forth their host by number, He calls them all by name; Because of the greatness of His might and the strength of His power, Not one of them is missing.” (Isaiah 40:26)

Everywhere man looks, he is confronted with God’s testimony. This is our point of contact with fallen man. Man has knowledge of God, yet suppresses it Romans 1:19. We must challenge fallen man to forsake his rejection of God’s testimony.

God’s attributes of Omniscience and Omnipresence make it impossible for man to hide:

“Where shall I go from your spirit? or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend up into heaven, you are there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, you are there.” (Psalm 139:7-8)

“Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the LORD. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the LORD.” (Jeremiah 23:24)

In conclusion:

Therefore, man is without excuse. God’s creation speaks, and His printed Word speaks with authority.

“The fool has said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that does good.” (Psalms 14:1)

“Listen! My beloved! Look! Here he comes, leaping across the mountains, bounding over the hills.” (Song of Solomon 2:8)

“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!” (Isaiah 52:7)

The redeemed will surely say: “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” ( Psalm 119:103, 105)

Notes:

Matthew Henry, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary, (Grand Rapids, MI: Ethereal Library), p. 831.

John Calvin, Calvin’s Commentaries Volume 1V, Joshua, Psalms, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, Baker Book House, Reprinted 1979), pp. 308, 309.

Matthew Poole’s Commentary on the Holy Bible, (Peabody, Massachusetts, Hendrickson Publishers, 1985) p. 29.

“There is not a single square inch of the entire cosmos of which Christ the sovereign Lord of all does not say, ‘This is mine.’” – Abraham Kuyper

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

The So-Called Mystery of Islamic Radicalism by Jack Kettler

It does not take a rocket scientist to see the reality starring everyone in the face regarding why Muslims become radicalized.

Why do young Muslims turn radical, or become consisted followers of Mohammad?

The only people this is a mystery to are; ostrich like politicians and media politically correct prostitutes.

All you need to know is the fact of Saudi Arabia, the “Kingdom of Backward Arab Culture” and Wahhabism explain all of this.

Wahhabism is a particularly subversion strain of Islam that is supported and promoted in all Mosques that are funded and supported by the “Kingdom of Backward Arab Culture” world-wide, especially in the United States and Europe. Many other Mosques promote subversive ideology.

Wahhabism is the version of Islam that gave birth to al-Qaeda and ISIS.

It is just a mater of time before this insidious subversive political ideology that is combined with an authoritarian religious structure where no dissent is tolerated will spawn new murderous attacks against so-called infidels or people of good conscious who are not convinced that Mohammad is anything more than a mad man from the desert.

Strict adherence by Muslims to Sharia law that mandates individuals who criticize Islam and Mohammad should be killed, should be expelled from the country under laws prohibiting political subversion.

Simply stated, it is only a matter of time before any one subjected to this noxious version of Islam, before they become radicalized, or turn into a faithful followers of Mohammad’s genocidal political religion of “Backward Arab Culture” and start murdering people.

Some alarming stats from the May 20, 2013 New American magazine article titled What A Billion Muslims Really Think:

When Muslims reach 2-3% of the population they start effectively proselytizing for converts, most observably in prisons where there convince criminals that their crimes were justified since they were against infidels.

When Muslims 5% of the population they begin exerting enormous pressure on business, schools and cities to accommodate them in observance of their dietary laws.

When Muslims reach 10% there will increase in rioting (example burning cars in Paris, France or death threats against the makers of legitimate political cartoons, Amsterdam, Holland).

When Muslims reach 20% of the population a country will experience major flash Muslim rioting with non-Muslims and Christians and Jews being murdered.

When Muslims reach 40% of the population a country will start experiencing Muslim militias attacking their opponents.

When Muslims reach 50% of the population or higher their will be out in the open genocide of non-Muslims.

See The Islamic Laws of Sharia and the Loss of Freedom by Jack Kettler
http://www.undergroundnotes.com/Sharia.html

There is no mystery! Solution:

Ban all Mosques that are connected to the “Kingdom of Backward Arab Culture.” Revoke tax exemption status for these politically subversive outposts that are preparing for the military overthrow and subjugation of non-followers of the Mohammad’s genocidal political religion of “Backward Arab Culture.”

The 1st Amendment does not guarantee the freedom to promote political subversion. The federal government has the authority to protect this country against enemies both foreign and domestic.

In light of t he above, Donald Trump’s proposal to temporarily halt immigration from Muslim nations until we find out what the hell is going on is perfectly rational.

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

The False Christian Faith of Barry Soetoro,* (a.k.a. Barack Obama) by Jack Kettler

To this day, members of the so-called main-line-media and many leading conservatives say we must take Barry at his words and accept his claim to a Christian serious. Why?

Consider; A Tree and its Fruit:

“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they? So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit.…” (Mathew 7: 15-17)

“As the old saying goes, ‘From evildoers come evil deeds,’ so my hand will not touch you.” (1 Samuel 24:13)

“Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright?” (Proverbs 20:11)

“My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.” (James 3:12)

In what follows, I cover no new ground, I simply cite a number of stories on Barry and his association with “Liberation Theology” and questionable people. The first important story on Barry comes from the “Right Scoop” which quotes Barry in his own words on Islam and Christianity.

In his own words: Barack Obama on Islam and Christianity

In his own words: Barack Obama on Islam and Christianity

From this article, the truth about Barry Soetoro (a.k.a. Barack Obama’s) faith can be known. One thing is sure, it is not Christian Faith in any historic sense of the Christian Faith:

OBAMA ON ISLAM:

1. “The future must not belong to those who slander the prophet of Islam”

2. “The sweetest sound I know is the Muslim call to prayer”

3. “We will convey our deep appreciation for the Islamic faith, which has done so much over the centuries to shape the world — including in my own country.”

4. “As a student of history, I also know civilization’s debt to Islam.”

5. “Islam has a proud tradition of tolerance.”

6. “Islam has always been part of America”

7. “we will encourage more Americans to study in Muslim communities”

8. “These rituals remind us of the principles that we hold in common, and Islam’s role in advancing justice, progress, tolerance, and the dignity of all human beings.”

9. “America and Islam are not exclusive and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles of justice and progress, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.”

10. “I made it clear that America is not – and will never be – at war with Islam.”

11. “Islam is not part of the problem in combating violent extremism – it is an important part of promoting peace.”

12. “So I have known Islam on three continents before coming to the region where it was first revealed”

13. “In ancient times and in our times, Muslim communities have been at the forefront of innovation and education.”

14. “Throughout history, Islam has demonstrated through words and deeds the possibilities of religious tolerance and racial equality.”

15. “Ramadan is a celebration of a faith known for great diversity and racial equality”

16. “The Holy Koran tells us, ‘O mankind! We have created you male and a female; and we have made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another.’”

17. “I look forward to hosting an Iftar dinner celebrating Ramadan here at the White House later this week, and wish you a blessed month.”

18. “We’ve seen those results in generations of Muslim immigrants – farmers and factory workers, helping to lay the railroads and build our cities, the Muslim innovators who helped build some of our highest skyscrapers and who helped unlock the secrets of our universe.”

19. “That experience guides my conviction that partnership between America and Islam must be based on what Islam is, not what it isn’t. And I consider it part of my responsibility as president of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear.”

20. “I also know that Islam has always been a part of America’s story.”

OBAMA ON CHRISTIANITY:

1. “Whatever we once were, we are no longer a Christian nation”

2. “We do not consider ourselves a Christian nation.”

3. “Which passages of scripture should guide our public policy? Should we go with Leviticus, which suggests slavery is OK and that eating shellfish is an abomination? Or we could go with Deuteronomy, which suggests stoning your child if he strays from the faith?”

4. “Even those who claim the Bible’s inerrancy make distinctions between Scriptural edicts, sensing that some passages – the Ten Commandments, say, or a belief in Christ’s divinity – are central to Christian faith, while others are more culturally specific and may be modified to accommodate modern life.”

5. “The American people intuitively understand this, which is why the majority of Catholics practice birth control and some of those opposed to gay marriage nevertheless are opposed to a Constitutional amendment to ban it. Religious leadership need not accept such wisdom in counseling their flocks, but they should recognize this wisdom in their politics.”

6. From Obama’s book, The Audacity of Hope: “I am not willing to have the state deny American citizens a civil union that confers equivalent rights on such basic matters as hospital visitation or health insurance coverage simply because the people they love are of the same sex—nor am I willing to accept a reading of the Bible that considers an obscure line in Romans to be more defining of Christianity than the Sermon on the Mount.”

7. Obama’s response when asked what his definition of sin is: “Being out of alignment with my values.”

8. “If all it took was someone proclaiming I believe Jesus Christ and that he died for my sins, and that was all there was to it, people wouldn’t have to keep coming to church, would they.”

9. “This is something that I’m sure I’d have serious debates with my fellow Christians about. I think that the difficult thing about any religion, including Christianity, is that at some level there is a call to evangelize and prostelytize. There’s the belief, certainly in some quarters, that people haven’t embraced Jesus Christ as their personal savior that they’re going to hell.”

10. “I find it hard to believe that my God would consign four-fifths of the world to hell. I can’t imagine that my God would allow some little Hindu kid in India who never interacts with the Christian faith to somehow burn for all eternity. That’s just not part of my religious makeup.”

11. “I don’t presume to have knowledge of what happens after I die. But I feel very strongly that whether the reward is in the here and now or in the hereafter, the aligning myself to my faith and my values is a good thing.”

12. “I’ve said this before, and I know this raises questions in the minds of some evangelicals. I do not believe that my mother, who never formally embraced Christianity as far as I know … I do not believe she went to hell.”

13. “Those opposed to abortion cannot simply invoke God’s will–they have to explain why abortion violates some principle that is accessible to people of all faiths.”

14. On his support for civil unions for gay couples: “If people find that controversial then I would just refer them to the Sermon on the Mount.”

15. “You got into these small towns in Pennsylvania and, like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing’s replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton Administration, and the Bush Administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it’s not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren’t like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.”

16. “In our household, the Bible, the Koran and the Bhagavad Gita sat on the shelf alongside books of Greek and Norse and African mythology”

17. “On Easter or Christmas Day, my mother might drag me to church, just as she dragged me to the Buddhist temple, the Chinese New Year celebration, the Shinto shrine, and ancient Hawaiian burial sites.”

18. “We have Jews, Muslims, Hindus, atheists, agnostics, Buddhists, and their own path to grace is one that we have to revere and respect as much as our own”“All of us have a responsibility to work for the day when the mothers of Israelis and Palestinians can see their children grow up without fear; when the Holy Land of the three great faiths is the place of peace that God intended it to be; when Jerusalem is a secure and lasting home for Jews and Christians and Muslims, and a place for all of the children of Abraham to mingle peacefully together as in the story of Isra— (applause) — as in the story of Isra, when Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed, peace be upon them, joined in prayer. (Applause.)”

19. “I believe that there are many paths to the same place, and that is a belief that there is a higher power, a belief that we are connected as a people.” End of quotes

Historic Christians, whether Roman Catholic or Protestant after analyzing the above quotes would be hard pressed to make a case that Barry Soetoro has the faintest clue about the Christian Faith. The next citation of part of an interview, conducted by Cathleen Falsani at god-father-politics online continues to prove the point that Barry does not have the foggiest notion of what Christianity is.

As will be documented further by information links, Barry was extensively indoctrinated into “Liberation Theology” which is Marxism dressed up in Christian terminology. In my opinion, Barry’s picture of Christ would probably would look like Che Guevara rather than the biblical Jesus.

Cathleen Falsani with Barack Obama in 2004 when he was running for the US Senate:

FALSANI: “Do you believe in heaven?”

OBAMA: “Do I believe in the harps and clouds and wings?”

FALSANI: “A place spiritually you go to after you die?”

OBAMA: “What I believe in is that if I live my life as well as I can, that I will be rewarded. I don’t presume to have knowledge of what happens after I die. But I feel very strongly that whether the reward is in the here and now or in the hereafter, the aligning myself to my faith and my values is a good thing.

When I tuck in my daughters at night and I feel like I’ve been a good father to them, and I see in them that I am transferring values that I got from my mother and that they’re kind people and that they’re honest people, and they’re curious people, that’s a little piece of heaven.”

FALSANI: “Do you believe in sin?”

OBAMA: “Yes.”

FALSANI: “What is sin?”

OBAMA: “Being out of alignment with my values.”

FALSANI: “What happens if you have sin in your life?”

OBAMA: “I think it’s the same thing as the question about heaven. In the same way that if I’m true to myself and my faith then that is its own reward; when I’m not true to it, it’s its own punishment.”

An Excursus from Cathleen Falsani’s interview with Obama:

A brief survey of Protestant, Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox views of sin is in order:

Protestant Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 14

Q: What is sin?
A: Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God.(1)

( 1) John 3:4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
James 4:17. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
Romans 3:23. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.

Catechism of the Catholic Church – Sin

Sin is an offense against God: “Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done that which is evil in your sight.” Sin sets itself against God’s love for us and turns our hearts away from it. Like the first sin, it is disobedience, a revolt against God
through the will to become “like gods,” knowing and determining good and evil. Sin is thus “love of oneself even to contempt of God.” In this proud self-exaltation, sin is diametrically opposed to the obedience of Jesus, which achieves our salvation.

The Eastern Orthodox definition of sin?

In Greek—the language in which the New Testament was written—the word for “sin” is “amartia,” which literally means “to miss the mark.” For Christians, the “mark” for which we strive is to live in communion with God, basing our lives
and actions on the life and actions of Jesus Christ; hence, when we “miss this
mark” we sin.

There is a basic agreement between the Three main Branches of Christianity on sin.

Back to Cathleen Falsani’s analysis of Obama’s knowledge of sin and God:

Christianity clearly teaches that sin is man’s disobedience of God. Because of man’s sin, man only has the right to go to Hell which is why we need a Savior. The Savior is Jesus Christ who as God came to earth in the form of a man, lived a sinless life, was crucified on the Cross for OUR sins, died, was buried and the rose from the dead and ascended into heaven where He prepares a place for us.

Yet from his own mouth, Obama has no idea if there is a heaven or afterlife and sin is when something goes against his own values. He has absolutely no concept what Christianity is or what it teaches. All he knows is that if he is good, he will get rewarded somewhere and sin about his values, not God’s.

See more from this interview at:

http://godfatherpolitics.com/4096/barack-obama-sin-is-being-out-of-alignment-with-my-values/#KV1vFtEUbPU2zbvb.99

As Cathleen Falsani exposes, Barry does not have a credible knowledge of man’s sin, his own sin, and redemptive salvation in Christ who gives hope in the future resurrection. Without a correct knowledge and awareness and confession of your own sin, you would never seek salvation in Christ’s substitutionary atonement.

The information at the following links serve to confirm what the above two citations of Barry Soetoro (a.k.a. Barack Obama) in his own words make clear, namely, that we are dealing with a man who has a false profession of the historic Christian Faith:

The Gospel According Barack Obama’s Pastor: Black Liberation Theology

The Gospel According Barack Obama’s Pastor: Black Liberation Theology

Obama’s Black Liberation Theology is ‘Afro-Nazism’

Obama’s Black Liberation Theology is ‘Afro-Nazism’

Is Obama Really a Christian?
http://www.nationalreview.com/articles/415266/obama-really-christian-david-french

Obama, Black Liberation Theology and Karl Marx…Revisited
http://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2010/08/obama_black_liberation_theolog_1.html

THE AUDACITY OF TRUTH – BLACK LIBERATION THEOLOGY
http://www.jeffhead.com/blacklibtheology.htm

Obama’s Church: Gospel of Hate
http://archive.frontpagemag.com/readArticle.aspx?ARTID=30508

The Shocking Source of Obama’s Religion
http://www.thefederalistpapers.org/us/the-shocking-source-of-obamas-religion

Is Obama really a true Christian?

Is Obama really a true Christian?

The Gospel according to Obama

The Gospel according to Obama

Mag Makes Case Against Obama’s Proclaimed Christianity
http://www.truthrevolt.org/news/mag-makes-case-against-obamas-proclaimed-christianity

Obama is acting out Christian Black Liberation theology on America

Obama is acting out Christian Black Liberation theology on America

Barack Obama: A wolf in sheep’s clothing
http://www.creationists.org/barack-obama-wolf-in-sheeps-clothing.html

In conclusion, would Barry be illegible for membership in your church or approved to take communion after seeing his beliefs on Islam and Christianity? His understanding of Christ and sin are clearly inadequate and would disqualify him for membership in churches that practice godly discipline.

In the opinion of many, the alleged Christian Faith of Barry Soetoro, (a.k.a. Barack Obama) is a complete sham and individuals who continue to insist that Barry is a Christian are irresponsible. The responsible thing to do, is highlight that Barry, by his own statements on the details of his faith make it clear that he is not a Christian, and Christians should call him to repentance and should pray for his salvation.

* I generally call him Barry because that was his adopted name when he attended a Muslim school in Indonesia. There are no public records available on when and if he ever changed his legally to Obama. In addition, as noted by presidential candidate Ben Carson, all of Obama’s past records are sealed. Why would a Christian hide his past by keeping it secret? If you take issue with my use of Barry, correct me by pointing me to appropriate documents where his name was legally changed.

Pursuing appropriate conduct, a Christian must lay a solid foundation, building on principles from God’s Word (John 14:26; 16:13–14; 1 John 5:6; Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16–17). This is particularly important when a Christian considers doing things in secret.

“For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.” (Mark 4:22)

Jehovah Witnesses and Mormons believe in a different Jesus than the Jesus of the Christian Scriptures. Faith in a false Jesus cannot save you. Likewise, Barry believes in false Jesus. Therefore, he is not a Christian.

“Not every one that said to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

Dispensationalism’s Eschatological Dilemma by Jack Kettler

In recent times, there have been a number of accusations leveled against respected Christian leaders who hold to postmillennial (a traditional Protestant eschatology) and covenant (historic Protestant) theology of being anti-Semitic.[1] How these Christian leaders, some of whom are Jewish in heritage, and their postmillennial and covenantal beliefs are anti-Semitic is never stated. Accusations have been fabricated and left unchallenged leading to fallacious thinking on the part of some that these accusations are self-evident. Vague comments are made trying to show that postmillennialism, since it allegedly does not have a special place in its system for Israel, coupled with covenant theology’s view of the church, will eventually lead to anti-Semitism is completely unfounded. Such accusations made against these historic theologies and Christian leaders are malicious and patently false.

It should be noted that some of the greatest Protestant theologians have been covenantal and postmillennial in their eschatology. For example, John Calvin, John Owen, Jonathan Edwards, Charles Hodge, A. A. Hodge, Dabney, Thornwell, Shedd, Patrick Fairbairn, and B.B. Warfield held these convictions. Although an impressive list of theologians can be cited who held a certain position does not necessarily make it right, it should make one give pause, however, before making slanderous accusations against a position held by men of such stature. It is beyond dispute that postmillennial and covenant theologians have always believed in the future salvation of National Israel.

What exactly is anti-Semitism? Consulting the Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary we find the established definition: “a person who is hostile to Jews.”[2] In the unabridged dictionary this is the only definition listed. If we are going to make up new and novel definitions, and then level accusations, we can prejudice people’s minds against anything. For example, this has happened with the word racism.

It is easy to libel your opponent a racist, and then not deal in any substantive way with their arguments or position held. We should all be appalled at these types of tactics. Journalistic ethics at one time required before going public with an accusation against someone or group, the individual or representatives of the group in question would first be allowed to answer or explain themselves. Then, and only then, should charges be made in a public forum.

If we cannot agree on established definitions, rational dialogue is not possible. Many Christians are all too familiar with pejorative words used to prejudice or poison a debate concerning ethics in the public arena. Pro-life activists have suffered this type of abuse for years in the public arena. Should those who name the name of Christ resort to such despicable tactics? As will be shown, the tables can easily be turned on those who use fallacious definitions in an attempt to discredit their opponents.

What is God’s definition of anti-Semitism? According to bizarre or inaccurate definitions even God can be labeled as anti-Semitic. Consider the case of Jerusalem’s destruction by the Babylonians recorded in the book of Jeremiah. In Jeremiah 34:2, God says He will give Jerusalem into the hands of the king of Babylon so that he can destroy it. Was God anti-Semitic when he brought the king of Babylon against Jerusalem?

In 1st John 2:9 we read: “He that saith he is in the light, and hatest his brother, is in darkness even until now.” The immediate context is dealing with Christian brotherly love. The broader implication of the passage is in harmony with Christ’s command, “…Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” Matthew 22:39. Hatred is at the root of anti-Semitism. This conclusion is fully consistent with the definition from Webster’s. Hatred towards a Jewish person is therefore anti-Semitic. Disagreement with nineteenth century dispensational theology is not anti-Semitic. Those within the dispensational system making false accusations of this nature are erroneously assuming dispensationalism to be orthodox. Dispensationalism has been studied and rejected in church synods and general assemblies on numerous occasions as well as in many serious theological treatises.

The following survey of dispensational eschatology will demonstrate that the dispensationalist position can be made to appear anti-Semitic or even worse. One purpose of this survey of dispensational eschatology is for illustrating a particular point. The point is that the tables can easily be turned upon adherents of dispensational eschatology who have attacked Christian believers of other persuasions. This article is not intended to be a refutation of dispensationalism in general or to seriously suggest that dispensationalists or their theology would be in accord with certain statements I make hypothesizing about the potential tendencies of anti-Semitism within dispensationalism itself. Hopefully, dispensationalists in the future will be more circumspect on how they treat their Christian brethren whom they have falsely accused.

Some dispensationalists make accusations and try to force conclusions upon postmillennialism and covenant theology that do not follow from or are necessitated by anything within these theological systems.[3] Some dispensationalists say that these two expressions of reformed theology logically lead to anti-Semitism because of the postmillennial covenantal theology’s classical view of the church. Not only are these accusations completely irresponsible, it should also be noted that not one example of these theologies having produced anti-Semitism are ever presented. Why? That is because it is impossible to do so. These types of accusations are examples of non sequitur fallacies. This writer will now present some legitimate questions concerning dispensational eschatology as well as an instructive (for education only) example of how non sequitur arguments can be leveled against dispensational eschatology itself.

Most dispensationalists believe that we are presently living on the edge of the most momentous events since the time of Christ. The prophetic time clock concerning Israel is allegedly ticking again. According to dispensationalism this clock stopped ticking when the Jewish nation rejected Christ. It was at this time that God went to a backup plan, starting the church during an intervening period of almost two thousand years. Supposedly this clock started ticking again in 1948 when Israel became a nation.

Dispensationalists are generally excited concerning what appears to be prophetic events unfolding right before their eyes. They see fulfilled prophecy on the pages of the everyday newspaper. It is a dream of many dispensationalists to visit the modern state of Israel. This writer, a former dispensationalist, visited Israel in 1982. It was a little unsettling; thinking one was going to the “Holy Land” only to find a secular socialist state, with topless bathing at numerous beaches. The tourists were a little bit shocked.

One of the first events to unfold according to this prophetic scheme will be the appearance of the anti-Christ. According to dispensationalism, this man will personify evil. Even Hitler’s wickedness is supposed to pale in comparison to this future demonic figure. This leader, who is supposed to be Jewish, will trick the Israeli people into thinking he is good for three and one half years, and will then turn on them with unmerciful ruthlessness.

There will be a period of seven years known as the “great tribulation.” This alleged “seven years” and all the dispensational theories about the coming of Christ, the rapture, the anti-Christ surrounding it are all based on an erroneous interpretation of Daniel 9:24-27. The dispensational “great tribulation” is supposed to be worldwide, yet is described with localized terminology as having to do with Jerusalem, Israel, her trading partners, the temple, its destruction, etc. Repeated false dispensational predictions surrounding these events have brought reproach upon the gospel.

Before it’s all over, millions of Jews will be slaughtered in a blood bath. The Jewish holocaust at the hands of Hitler was a small foreshadowing of how terrible this anti-Christ’s destruction will be. The terrible seven-year reign of the anti-Christ will end at the battle of Armageddon with millions more dying. Many dispensationalists believe that the Gentile Christians will be secretly raptured off the earth prior to these terrible events. The Gentiles escape while the Jews face a new Hitler. Interesting! Surely it follows that dispensationalism must be intrinsically anti-Semitic if it says that the world’s most evil future ruler will be a Jew who will slaughter millions of the Jewish people while the Gentiles escape. The Bible does not teach that this ruler will be a Jew or even exist in the future. These are inferences and deductions, the products of a flawed dispensational hermeneutical system.

The adherents of dispensationalism rightly condemn Hitler’s murder of millions of Jewish people this century. Hopefully, if alive during that time, they would have tried to save as many of the Jewish people as possible. The facts are, many dispensationalists were alive and did nothing. I have never heard one dispensationalist warn the citizens of modern Israel to flee before this wicked individual rises to power. Why? If it was a good idea to flee Hitler’s Nazi Germany, why not the future anti-Christ in Israel? Why are dispensationalists not helping people escape from Israel? Instead, dispensationalists are excited about the Jewish people’s return to Israel and at the same time knowing that these same Jews will be killed. This is a serious ethical dilemma that dispensationalism must deal with. Dismissing this dilemma rather than dealing with it would make one more like an ostrich. Surely it follows that dispensationalists are not concerned with the welfare of those Jews who will be persecuted and slaughtered by the anti-Christ.

When attempting to respond to this ethical dilemma the dispensationalist claims that the rise to power of this wicked Jewish ruler is inevitable or fixed. At this point, the theology of Arminianism, which characterizes much contemporary dispensationalism begins to speak with Augustinian or Calvinistic terminology. Somehow, the claim of divine predetermination is supposed to lighten the force or make this dilemma disappear. In effect, dispensationalists by claiming divine predetermination at this juncture are trying to hang this dilemma on God. The dispensationalists do not grasp the force of this dilemma. It is a dilemma that they have to deal with, not God. This appeal to providence is reminiscent of Arminians thinking that their peculiar doctrine of “free will” somehow answers atheistic questions concerning evil in the world. It should be noted that this dilemma does not exist for traditional eschatology. This dilemma is one of many examples of theological confusion and contradiction inherent within the dispensational system. The false dichotomy between law and grace within dispensationalism is another example of serious theological error that this system of Bible interpretation has produced.

To continue pressing this dilemma, where are the dispensationalist humanitarian organizations helping Israelis relocate to safe places around the world? The Israelis need to be warned that this future ruler will deceive them, thus bringing on an almost unspeakable blood bath. Dispensationalists cannot claim that their numerous books on Bible predictions accomplish this. Nowhere in this literature are there any serious attempts to warn the Jewish people to flee from this imminent holocaust. This literature is written purely for Christian consumption.

Dispensational eschatology cannot escape the dilemma, on the one hand, of having great excitement about the Jews going to Israel and, on the other hand, knowing those millions will soon die during the seven-year tribulation. Should we warn those in danger? Where is the dispensational clarion call warning those to flee before the Jewish Hitler-like ruler emerges? The silence is deafening. Surely it follows that dispensationalists are not really concerned about this future slaughter of the Jewish people. After pouring untold millions of tourist dollars into the modern state of Israel, it would seem that dispensational leaders would at least pressure Israeli leaders into opening up their country to Christian missionary activity. At least this way the Jews have a chance of accepting Christ before being slaughtered.

The dispensationalist is caught in a contradiction between the moral imperative to warn those in danger, and his excitement at the re-gathering of those about to be slaughtered. It is no good to say that God will use this slaughter to save all Israel as Romans 11:26 teaches. What about the millions who will die during this rule by the anti-Christ? Are they saved? On what grounds can they be? Having faith in Christ is how people are saved. Dying at the hands of a tyrant does not qualify as a substitute for saving faith.

Supposedly during this terrible tribulation, Israel will be surrounded and hard pressed, because there will be no avenue of escape. This impending calamity will be a contributing factor in Israel’s conversion to Christ. Why? After the children of Israel were delivered from Pharaoh’s army, they ended up in the wilderness for forty years as a result of unbelief. When faced with life threatening situations, people will in desperation call upon God. This phenomenon is appropriately called foxhole faith. Miraculous events do not convey any kind of guarantee that regeneration will take place. See the story of the rich man and Lazarus for more confirmation of this, Luke 16:19-29.

According to dispensationalism, only at the end of the seven-year tribulation, when Christ destroys the anti-Christ and returns, will the Jewish people accept him as their Messiah. How can it be said that all Israel is saved according to this view? The anti-Christ and his forces have just killed millions who were not saved. Surely it follows that the dispensationalists are not honestly portraying their real beliefs when talking about all Israel being saved. They never tell their Jewish friends about the millions of Jews that they know will be slaughtered.

Briefly, to set the record straight, postmillennialism teaches that before regeneration the Gentiles were lost and without hope. Ephesians 2:12 says, “…at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.” Going on we read, “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God” (Eph. 2:19). We, the Gentiles, are no more strangers. Strangers to what, someone may ask? To the commonwealth of Israel, of which we the Gentiles are now a part. Another name for the commonwealth of Israel in the new covenant is the church. In Galatians 6:15,16 the apostle specifically calls the church “the Israel of God.” Romans 11:17 teaches that “some of the branches [the Jews] have been broken off.” Romans 11:25-27 says that in the future age of the church, Israel, or the Jews will be grafted back into the olive tree or the commonwealth.

Postmillennialism holds out a great hope for Israel. Postmillennialism believes that Israel will be converted during the church age. Many modern postmillennialists believe that the dispensationalist’s “great tribulation” is in reality a past historical event. Many postmillennialists also believe that the book of Revelation represents historically fulfilled prophecy. This means that the Jewish people will not experience the dispensational slaughter in the future. All Israel will be saved according to Romans 11:25-27, minus the millions dying as proposed by the dispensational system. The grafting of Israel back into the olive tree will bring about the greatest blessings the earth has ever seen since the resurrection of Christ.

It should be clear that adherents of the dispensational system are seriously mistaken when making accusations against their Christian brethren. Moreover, dispensationalists compartmentalize their moral and eschatological beliefs. This is clearly evidenced by the dispensationalist’s excitement concerning the Jews going to Israel and the millions soon to be slaughtered in the Jewish anti-Christ’s blood bath. The moral imperative, leading to action aimed to help those who are about to be slaughtered, is nonexistent and suppressed in dispensational eschatology. Compartmentalization in this system is a mechanism to escape contradictions.

“Dispensational truth” has supposedly provided a hermeneutical key to unlock prophetic interpretive mysteries in a literal way. It is interesting that “dispensational truth” had its beginning in the early nineteenth century along with a number of other heresies. Since the turn of the century dispensationalism has far exceeded the Jehovah’s Witnesses in false prophetic predictions. There is no denying that these predictions cause great emotional excitement among dispensationalists. This writer, formerly a dispensationalist was oftentimes thrilled hearing about the predictions of the pre-tribulation rapture that was to take place in 1981. In reality, the excitement or thrill experienced when gaining a dispensational understanding of prophecy is more reminiscent of Gnosticism’s concealed or secret knowledge (only possessed by those initiated into the deeper mysteries or dispensation truth) than a correct knowledge of the Bible. Those who live in glass houses should not cast stones, lest their own house shatters.

Jack Kettler is a Ruling Elder in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Permission to publish this essay was graciously provided by Mr. Kettler. Copyright © 1999 Jack Kettler.

Notes:

1. Norm Resnick, “The Dr. Norm Resnick Show,” (Johnstown, CO: The American Freedom Network, November 2, 1998). November 2, 1998 is one of many times in which Dr. Resnick engaged in malicious misrepresentations of well-known Christians, covenant, and postmillennial theology. To be specific, Dr. Resnick falsely labeled Rev. R. J. Rushdoony and Howard Phillips as anti-Semitic, among other things, on his radio show the day before the election. Candidates for the American Constitution Party (Colorado Affiliate of the U.S. Taxpayers Party) were accused of being deceived by Howard Phillips and therefore guilty by association (a fallacy) of anti-Semitism themselves.

Those accused have not been consulted nor given the opportunity to defend themselves. Dr. Resnick has not provided one shred of credible evidence that any of those accused are anti-Semitic. In fact it is not too strong to say that Dr. Resnick is a loose cannon who at times has done incredible damage to the freedom movement because of his lack of sound judgement. In addition, Dr. Resnick has made accusations against the John Birch Society after they stopped providing guests for his radio show when they became aware of his agreement and coziness with certain militia leaders.

Dr. Resnick is a Jewish man who prides himself as being a believer in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His malicious accusations against Rushdoony and Phillips are rooted partially in the godless libertarian publication Reason Magazine that he has demonstrated dependence upon. Reason Magazine supposedly champions individual rights. At times this translates into homosexual, abortion, and pornography rights. It is doubtful if Dr. Resnick sees that his stated theological beliefs are in direct conflict with the freedom-destroying degenerate philosophy of modern libertarianism.

Libertarian philosophy is a cancer that feeds off of the Christian worldview. In other words, libertarian philosophy like all non-Christian philosophy lives off the borrowed capital of the Christian worldview. Thankfully, at many times Reason Magazine is not consistent with its philosophical presuppositions. This is why at times they do argue for positions that Christians can have formal agreement with. However, at its core, Reason Magazine is an organ that propagates a godless philosophy. Just as its name implies, Reason Magazine exalts man’s apostate reason over the laws of God.

It is a serious contradiction on Dr. Resnick’s part when he claims to believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but then attacks those who propagate His laws by siding with a system that stands in complete antithesis to biblical ethics. The founding fathers of this country that Dr. Resnick claims to respect did not admire godless philosophy, which is characterized by ethical lawlessness towards God and human autonomy. Human autonomy among other things is epistemological rebellion towards God. This type of philosophy can never fashion a worldview necessary to produce a document such as the U.S. Constitution.

Rev. Rushdoony and others’ theology was caricatured in the November 1998 article titled “Invitation to a Stoning: Getting cozy with theocrats” in Reason Magazine. The author, Walter Olson, did not provide proper context of the Christians he cited. Olson pulls quotes as if it were out of thin air attempting to shock his readers. Why didn’t Olson provide the necessary context in which the quotes appeared? Why did not Dr. Resnick give those Olson quoted (absent sine qua non explanatory context) the benefit of the doubt before engaging in malicious slander against Rev. Rushdoony and Howard Phillips? Given Dr. Resnick’s training he should have been aware that Olson was not providing any context for the quotations of the Christians he cited.

Without explanatory context anyone can have horns placed upon their head. This happened to Patrick J. Buchanan who had an article taken out of context making it appear that he was sympathetic to Adolph Hitler. Why does Dr. Resnick make false accusations against Christian theologians and leaders without first seeking to interview those in question personally? Furthermore, Olson in his article assumes the truth of his own position while at the same time dismissing the biblical ethics of the reconstructionists rather than attempting a serious refutation, or setting forth an alternative ethical system.

Those who agree with anti-Christian libertarian philosophy are hostile to the judicial laws of the Old Testament. Which faith or law structure will Dr. Resnick adhere to? Will it be lawless human autonomy, the philosophy of libertarianism or the law of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? If you want to identify the God of a person or philosophical system you must look for the origin of law of that individual or system. The source of law provides a means of identifying a person or philosophical system’s ultimate commitments. The law structure provides the basis for determining right from wrong within the respective system and as such is the ultimate commitment. What is the source of this law structure, God or man? In biblical ethics God is the creator of and the source of law that is set forth in the entirety of Scripture.

At its core, libertarian philosophy is man centered and engages in idolatrous self-interpretation and the deification of man (Genesis 3:3-6). Consistent libertarian philosophy exalts man as the standard for right and wrong. This is the essence of humanism, which attempts to deify man as the ultimate standard. On the other hand, and relevant to our debate, American Constitutional law is based upon British Common Law, which is based upon the laws of God contained in the Bible. Unfortunately, Dr. Resnick has sided with a philosophical system that is incapable of setting forth a coherent ethical system along with the necessary epistemological presuppositions that can establish its truthfulness.

Going on in this reproof, Dr. Resnick exhibits a sophomoric understanding of dispensational theology, which forms the crux of some of his malicious attacks made against respected Christian leaders and their theology. Dr. Resnick is unable to distinguish between “Christian Identity” which he rightly condemns and covenant theology. In light of his appalling accusations, it follows that Dr. Resnick believes that the terms are synonymous. This is simply inexcusable and contemptible on Dr. Resnick’s part. It is a matter of fact that Rev. Rushdoony denounces “Christian Identity” and has no relationships with adherents of this heresy. (See the Chalcedon Foundation’s web page for a strong disclaimer regarding this perverted movement.)

Moreover, it is highly unlikely that Dr. Resnick can accurately state the positions of postmillennialism and covenant theology, or dispensational theology for that matter. Inability to properly state your opponents’ position reveals your own intellectual bankruptcy in the dispute. Dr. Resnick rightly chastises Christians for not being involved in the political process. Yet, it is this very dispensationalism that has led Christians out of the political arena. The historical theology of covenant theology and postmillennialism, which Dr. Resnick attacks, is the theology that provides the basis for Christian social action. Dr. Resnick attacks in essence the theology of John Calvin and John Knox, both committed to covenantal postmillennial theology, which has the power to overthrow godless totalitarian governments.

Protestant theology accomplishes this by using God’s law as a tool to establish dominion. The present government uses law as a force of dominion. Law and government are inescapably connected. The present cultural war is between two competing law systems. In the hands of men law will govern the nation. Which law will govern, man’s law or God’s? Dr. Resnick would do well to read chapters one and two in John Eidsmoe’s Christianity And The Constitution: The Faith of Our Founding Fathers. According to Dr. Eidsmoe, the theology of Calvinistic, covenantal postmillennialism was the theology that provided the foundation for the U.S. Constitution.

Postmillennial and covenant theologies are part of the reformed faith. Both Rev. Rushdoony and Howard Phillips are committed to the reformed faith. Adherents of reformed theology or more properly Calvinism have been known as the fighting Protestants. In fact, Calvinism is known as the mortal enemy of monarchies or totalitarian government. In our country we are now embracing a form of government that can be described as democratic majoritarian tyranny or the law of the majority. In the above-mentioned work Eidsmoe shows that Calvinism gave rise to our republican form of government. A republic is a nation based upon law. Dr. Resnick knows this and he also knows what the law structure was that formed our republic. Why is he now repudiating that law structure?

A forerunner to Calvin and Knox was William Wallace. The theology of dispensationalism has made its adherents for the most part run from the cultural battle like the unprincipled morally bankrupt noble men of Wallace’s day. Dispensationalism’s distorted emphasis on the last days has paralyzed many from fighting in the cultural war. Why fight if the end of the world is just around the corner? More seriously, dispensational theology rejects law in the present. This is why dispensationalism has nothing to offer in the fight against the humanistic state. The humanistic state rules with the force of law. Our present law structure in the hands of the humanistic state is becoming increasingly anti-Christian.

There is a law that is higher, namely, God’s law. Only God’s law can effectively challenge the idolatrous humanistic state. Why does Dr. Resnick want to throw away our best weapon? Dr. Resnick’s political philosophy and his theology are characterized by serious contradictions. Unfortunately, these contradictions are shared by many. Until godless lawless human philosophy is repudiated, there will be no return to constitutional limited government in this country.

I propose that Dr. Resnick do several things. He should confess his ignorance in matters of Christian theology, apologize and ask forgiveness for his slanderous accusations, and seriously consider resigning from talk radio. Dr. Resnick is rejecting the ethical claims of Christ in favor of ethical rebellion, siding with those who promote a godless freedom destroying philosophy. Dr. Resnick needs to choose whom he will serve (Joshua 24:15).

Prayerfully, Dr. Resnick will receive Christ as his Lord and Savior. There is only one name under heaven whereby men can be saved and that is the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). The two covenant dispensational theology that deceives individuals into thinking that they can be saved based upon a covenant (allegedly the Abrahamic covenant) outside of Christ is fictitious and heretical. I fear that Dr. Resnick’s dispensational friends have led him to believe this very heresy. The Abrahamic covenant is the covenant of Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:14,29). In conclusion, I want Dr. Resnick to know that I bear him no ill will.

2. Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, (New Jersey: Random House, 1989), p. 67.

3. Tommy Ice has been a guest on the American Freedom Network on more than one occasion, repeating his discredited accusations that the postmillennial and covenant theology of reconstructionism will produce anti-Semitism. These accusations have been thoroughly refuted in public and print on numerous occasions. For example, see House Divided: The Break-up Of Dispensational Theology, by Greg L. Bahnsen and Kenneth L. Gentry Jr., for a thoroughgoing scholarly refutation of Mr. Ice’s false accusations by two genuine biblical scholars. The fact that Mr. Ice keeps making these fallacious accusations speaks volumes.

Bio

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com.

The Complete Infidel’s Guide to ISIS A review by Jack Kettler
by Robert Spencer
Regnery Publishing, Washington DC, 2015

Biography:

Robert Spencer is the director of Jihad Watch, a program of the David Horowitz Freedom Center, and the author of fourteen books, including two New York Times bestsellers, The Truth About Muhammad and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Islam (and the Crusades) (both Regnery). His latest book is The Complete Infidel’s Guide to ISIS (Regnery).

Spencer has led seminars on Islam and jihad for the United States Central Command, United States Army Command and General Staff College, the U.S. Army’s Asymmetric Warfare Group, the FBI, the Joint Terrorism Task Force, and the U.S. intelligence community. His web site Jihad Watch is a valuable source of ongoing research and news stories.

What others are saying about this book:

“As always, Robert Spencer is scholarly, thorough, fearless, and insistent in making sure we know the Islamic State. Don’t say you haven’t been warned.” – Andrew C. McCarthy, contributing editor of National Review and New York Times bestselling author of The Grand Jihad, Willful Blindness, and Islam and Free Speech

“Contains everything the people of the free world need to know about the foremost threat to freedom, and to every free person. This book shows how ISIS plans to sow murder and mayhem—and above all, how it can and must be stopped.” – Geert Wilders, member of parliament in the Netherlands and leader of the Dutch Party for Freedom (PVV)

“ISIS is here. If sanity still prevailed in our government and media, this book would be required reading for all elected officials and journalists.” – Pamela Geller, president of the American Freedom Defense Initiative

Are you an Infidel? If so, this book is written for you:

If you are a Christian, you are an Infidel according the Koran and its most consistent adherents, ISIS or the Islamic State. As always, Spencer is spot on in his analysis of Islam and the emergence of the Islamic State. In Spencer’s latest work, you will learn things about ISIS that you will never learn about from the main line politically correct media.

The rise of ISIS has been spectacularly fast. ISIS now controls huge parts of former Iraq and Syria and is awash in millions of dollars per day in revenue. Thousands of young educated people from Europe and the United States are risking arrest from authorities for going or attempting to go to the Middle East to join ISIS and its newly established caliphate.

Spencer takes the reader on an important tour of Islamic history and how the caliphate (an absolute authoritarian military political, religious leader) began after Mohammad’s death. From its beginning, Islam has had a blood drenched history. The Islamic State wants to make sure they are on the cutting edge of this blood soaked political religion. Beheading people is their favorite method of killing people. They are innovators in other forms of barbaric savagery, such as burning people alive.

There are blocked texts sections in the book called NOT THAT THIS HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH ISLAM that document the Islamic State’s faithfulness to Koranic teaching. Also, the Ostrich Alerts in the book show how far the so-called media experts, government officials and politicians will go in their denial of the overwhelming truth about the real Islam. These experts in denial still assure us the Islam is a religion of peace.

Spencer documents many of the Jihadist groups around the world that have currently pledged their support to ISIS. There is no doubt that sooner rather than later we as a nation will have to confront and deal with militant Islam. They are not going away, they are coming here. In fact, they are here already and planning to commits acts of murder and mayhem against non-Muslims. Multicultural politically correct leaders will remain in denial until war breaks out in the streets and will still be incapable of action to protect us.

The final chapter in Spencer’s book is about why we must defeat ISIS. It contains important strategies to win. I would not waste much time in trying to get politically correct congress creatures to read the book. They are paralyzed with fear regarding what the media may say about them, if they speak the truth. We have to educate our neighbors and friends one at a time on the danger we are facing. For the most part, the majority of Americans understand the danger we are facing. We need to keep pushing and educating in every forum we can. The only political candidates willing to speak forcefully against Islam, are outsiders. Support them!

Christians in the areas controlled by ISIS are experiencing unspeakable horrors at the hands of these followers of Mohammad’s genocidal political religion of backward Arab culture. Spencer chronicles the rape and selling of Christian girls into Islamic sexual slavery until your heart feels like breaking. All this is justified by Koranic teaching meticulously documented by ISIS. As Spencer shows in this book, they document all of their perverse actions with citations from the Koran.

The book is not what you can call enjoyable reading, but necessary to read and disseminate if we are to survive as a nation. If you want our nation and future to be secure, get this book and make sure you do your part to get it widely publicized. Robert Spencer is heard almost weekly on Peter Boyles radio show on KNUS radio from 5 to 9 Mountain time am.

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

Hidden But Now Revealed: A Biblical Theology of Mystery A review by Jack Kettler

Hidden But Now Revealed: A Biblical Theology of Mystery
by G. K. Beale and Benjamin L. Gladd
Publisher: IVP Academic, Downers Grove, Illinois, (2014)

The Authors:

G. K. Beale (PhD, University of Cambridge) holds the J. Gresham Machen Chair of New Testament and is professor of New Testament and biblical theology at Westminster Theological Seminary. His books include The Book of Revelation (New International Greek Testament Commentary), 1-2 Thessalonians (The IVP New Testament Commentary Series), The Right Doctrine from the Wrong Texts? Essays on the Use of the Old Testament in the New, John’s Use of the Old Testament in Revelation, The Temple and the Church’s Mission and We Become What We Worship.

Benjamin L. Gladd received a PhD in Biblical and Theological studies from Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He currently serves as Assistant Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, and has served as an adjunct faculty member at Wheaton College, teaching New Testament exegesis and interpretation, Greek, and introductory courses on the Old and New Testaments. Gladd is the author of Revealing the Mysterion.

Significant comments:

“In the realm of lay readers, I can hardly think of an area that is more misunderstood than the area of prophecy; in the realm of biblical scholars, I can hardly think of a topic more controverted than the relationship between the Old and the New. At the crosshairs of both discussions is Daniel’s term ‘mystery.’ For the sake of both readerships, I’m grateful that we finally now have a book that reduces the mystery behind ‘mystery.’ Many others will be grateful as well, and will want a copy for their own library.” – Nicholas Perrin, Franklin S. Dyrness Chair of Biblical Studies, Wheaton College Graduate School

“An intriguing theological and exegetical exploration of a key New Testament theme, especially in Paul. As the book’s authors argue, the early Christian use of ‘mysteries’ surely reflects the strong influence of Daniel.” – raig Keener, professor of New Testament, Asbury Theological Seminary

“Comprehensive and accessible, this book is a model of intertextual exegesis and hermeneutics for the sake of biblical theology. . . . Serious Bible students will find in Hidden But Now Revealed helpful detailed intertextual analysis of the way in which mystery in the book of Daniel is interpreted, adapted, and revealed in the New Testament.” – Sherif Gendy, Ordained Servant

“Beale and Gladd have ably demonstrated the viability of the claim that the New Testament writers understood and respected the context of the Old Testament passages to which they alluded and cited. Chapter 11, the conclusion, and the appendix provide a masterful synthesis with hermeneutical implications extending far beyond the narrow topic of mystery. Beale and Gladd express the hope that ‘pastors and students will benefit from this project because of its emphasis on how the two Testaments relate.’ Pastors, students, and academics alike will indeed find it beneficial to familiarize themselves with the contents and conclusions of this excellent volume.” – R. Andrew Compton, Calvin Theological Journal

Why get this important book?

The book is brilliant and original! The authors make the case why the study of the term mystery is warranted, but needed. The term mystery is found in the New Testament 28 times. It is found 9 times in the Old Testament. Interestingly, the word mystery only appears in the book of Daniel.

In its most basic meaning; mystery conveys the idea of hiddenness or partial hiddeness and then subsequent fuller revelation.

The authors stress the importance of how Daniel uses the term and how it informs the New Testament writers understanding of the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. The authors point out: “The initial revelation was not entirely hidden but only partially, and the subsequent revelation discloses the fuller meaning of the end-times events” (43).

The book supplies background into the New Testament’s use of mystery by examining the use of mystery in early Judaism, in key texts in the Dead Sea Scrolls and the practice of mystery religions in the early centuries of church history.

The authors look at the use of the term mystery throughout the whole of Scripture. The authors thoroughly work through Matthew, Romans, 1st Corinthians, Ephesians, Colossians, 2nd Thessalonians, 1st Timothy, and Revelation. Beale and Gladd discover most importantly that the term mystery is linked to Christ, the crucifixion and Christ’s heavenly reign in the cosmos. Beale and Gladd do justice to the biblical concepts of continuity and discontinuity between the Old and New Covenants in this important work.

Summery of some significant examples of Mystery and fulfillment in the Bible:

The conversion of the gentiles
Israel set aside and the gentiles graphed in
The restoration of Israel, (Romans chapter 11)
The marital mystery of Christ and His Church
The suffering Messiah and crucified King
Christ ruling the cosmos, both in the heavenly and earthly realms

One can say, the authors do an extraordinary job of taking away the mystery from the use of the term mystery in Scripture. Every serious student of Scripture should have this book in their library.

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert, an english professor’s journey into the christian faith
And,
Openness Unhindered
2012, 2015 Crown & Covenant
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Rosaria Champagne Butterfield

Both titles reviewed by Jack Kettler

I strongly encourage the reader of this review to get both books by Roaria Butterfield PhD. In these works, the reader will find an edifying story of God’s grace and redemption. Dr. Butterfield is a former lesbian, and also, a former radical tenured English professor at Syracuse University. Rosaria’s story reminded me of C.S. Lewis and how some are brought screaming and kicking into the Kingdom of God.

Both of these books are extremely personal. So much so, that you feel like you know her. Not only does Rosaria open her heart, but also her home. I have no doubt that her children will rise up and call her blessed (Proverbs 31:28). She has and is raising a house full of home schooled scholars. She even acquaints us with Murphy and Sally her now deceased beloved dogs.

Rosaria’s heart felt knowledge and fidelity to Reformed theology is awe-inspiring. She is well read in the theology of the Puritans. One of the blessings of both titles is the many gems from the Puritan writers she passes on to the reader. In fact, you could build a good library of theological titles she references. Her intense compassion for sinners, is clear in both works. Her exhortations to her fellow Christians are convicting in a positive way.

As a young Christian Rosaria endured trials that inspires hope in God’s grace. One Christian woman, while preparing food in the church kitchen, asked if it was safe to be alone with her. She rightly wondered if she would always be a marked woman. A former fiancée called off their wedding, within a couple of weeks of the event, an emotional shock few have experienced. He then went on to send letters to all the pastors in the Presbytery, asking them to review his reasons and decision to call off the wedding. I sympathize with her thoughts at this point that she was being scrutinized by a pack of alpha males. Through all of these, and many more trials, Rosaria’s faith did not waiver, but has continued to grow strong.

In her second book, Openness Unhindered, Rosaria takes the reader into some serious studies of sexual identity and politics. She aptly traces for what passes as current knowledge in the areas of sexual identity, comes from Sigmund Freud. Her insights on how to communicate with individuals struggling with sexual sin is noteworthy. Her humbleness and compassion for those struggling with these temptations is ennobling.

There are many important truths that the reader can learn from these two titles. I will use an endorsement from the Rosaria’s second book, since my words are inadequate to do justice to these indispensable works.

From the back cover of Openness Unhindered:

“King Jesus knows just what the church and world need, and just when we need it. When we needed a Pascal; behold, there was Pascal. When we needed Spurgeon, there he was. In his wisdom, Jesus knew that we would need the gift, right now, of Rosaria Butterfield. This book deals with some of the most difficult and incendiary questions with wit, joy, maturity, and, above all, radiating love.

If you’re struggling with sexual sin, this book will help you. If you are gripped with guilt from your past, this book will strengthen you. If you don’t know how to love or bear witness to your neighbors, this book will equip you. Like Jael of old, Rosaria Butterfield wields the tent peg of the gospel against deception and accusation. And with this book she nails it.”
Russell Moore, president of The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission

Rosaria and her pastor husband Kent are leaders in pioneering hospitality ministries in the larger church. Every serious Christian and pastor will profit from reading and having these two books on hand for the needs of ministry. Rosaria is one of the best sources for information on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) movement. I hope that these two books are the first of many more to come from the author.

Be sure to visit Rosaria’s site at:

Rosaria Butterfield

http://rosariabutterfield.com/

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.

Can Judges make Law, or is it their Job to Interpret the Law? by Jack Kettler

Endeavoring to interpret laws in light of their original meaning is sometimes difficult. However, when judges depart from the written law in question and resort to judicial activism, or the making of new laws, they are in violation of Constitution.

How so?

The role assigned to judges in our system was to interpret the Constitution and lesser laws, not to make them. It was to protect the integrity of the Constitution, not to add to it or subtract from it—certainly not to rewrite it. For as the framers knew, unless judges are bound by the text of the Constitution, we will, in fact, no longer have a government of laws, but of men and women who are judges. And if that happens, the words of the documents that we think govern us will be just masks for the personal and capricious rule of a small elite.1 – President Ronald Reagan

(1) Ronald Reagan, Remarks at the Swearing-In Ceremony for Anthony M. Kennedy as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (Feb. 18, 1988).

In a recent landmark opinion, a divided Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples can marry nationwide, establishing a new civil right (or a new law, while at the same time invalidating constitutional laws of many state legislators) and handing gay rights deviants a victory.

Figuratively, Kennedy is stabbing President Reagan and all Americans in the back:

In the 5-4 ruling, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote for the majority of the four activist justices in violation his constitutional oath of office.

Consider some of the fallout over this:

“This court is not a legislature,” and “Whether same-sex marriage is a good idea should be of no concern to us. Under the Constitution, judges have power to say what the law is, not what it should be.” – Obama/care savior, justice John Roberts

We can agree that in his analysis of the court’s ruling, Obama/care savior is correct in his criticism that court is acting as a legislature. Since the court has clearly overstep its constitutional boundary, the ruling is not law, and should not be treated as such. It is simply the opinion of 5 activists who wear black robes.

It is perplexing why the majority of the prominent critics of the recent court opinion, are treating this opinion like it is the law. Especially when people are being forced to violate their beliefs as in the case of the Kentucky clerk who in jail for refusing to follow the opinions of 5 activist black robe wearers, who have been elected by no one. In fact two of the activists should not even be on the court in light of the fact they were nominated by Barry Soetoro, an ineligible fraud and serial lying con-man.

For example:

GOP presidential candidate Carly Fiorina told the Hugh Hewitt radio show that it was inappropriate for a Kentucky clerk to refuse to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. “When you are a government employee as opposed to say, an employee of another kind of organization, then in essence, you are agreeing to act as an arm of the government, and while I disagree with this court’s decision, their actions are clear,” she said.

Does Fiorina belief the court’s ruling is law, or an opinion? Fiorina is hardly alone in going along with the latest judicial activism and saying people should submit to it. What does she propose as a remedy? Getting the republiCON leadership to do something?

Not only is Kim Davis, the county clerk from Kentucky being consistent with her faith, she is doing what all local lesser magistrates should do, ignore UN-constitutional opinions of the court. The lesser magistrate is suppose to protect the citizens from federal government tyranny.

Find out why at:

http://americanvision.org/12412/kim-davis-is-doing-what-every-christian-magistrate-should/

http://americanvision.org/12425/kim-davis-and-the-call-to-all-christian-officials/

In agreement with Reagan and the constitution, GOP candidate Mike Huckabee said:

“Judicial review is exactly what we have lived under; we have not lived under judicial supremacy,” “The Supreme Court can’t make a law; the legislature has to make it, the executive has to sign it and enforce it. The notion that the Supreme Court comes up with a ruling and that automatically subjects the two other branches to following it defies everything there is to equal branches of government.”

Learn more why the Supreme Court Offers Opinion, Doesn’t Make Law at:

Supreme Court Offers Opinion, Doesn’t Make Law

If we agree with President Reagan’s view, we must treat these actions by the court as mere opinions, and not law.

What should be done?

All lower elected magistrates should consider the Kennedy opinion, nothing more than an opinion and ignore it.

“For earthly princes lay aside their power when they rise up against God, and are unworthy to be reckoned among the number of mankind. We ought, rather, to spit upon their heads than to obey them.” – John Calvin (Commentary on Daniel, Lecture XXX Daniel 6:22)

“If they (government authorities) command anything against Him (God), let it go unesteemed. And here let us not be concerned about all the dignity which the magistrates possess.” – John Calvin (The Institution of the Christian Religion, written in 1536)

Mr. Kettler is the owner of http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read.