Articles - Acts II Ministries

Extraordinary Mothers’ Day For Local Woman

John W. Hanson — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 19:38:00 +0000

I was staring at a miracle. Through the plastic window of the incubator I admired Jeremiah as he slept. Weighing in at two pounds, three ounces, and measuring fourteen inches long, he was the smallest human being I had ever laid eyes on. He could have rested comfortably in the palm of my hand. As my wife and I stood with his mother, we expressed our amazement. We all knew that Jeremiah was alive only because of a series of genuine miracles and the hard work of many diligent people in the medical profession. God and mankind, working together, saved the life of an eternal soul.
Several weeks earlier Jeremiah’s identical twin had died in his mother’s womb. Because the twins shared one umbilical cord, and since his brain, heart and lungs had been in great duress, the doctors had warned his parents that he would most likely die within a few days of his sibling. The situation was serious. The only reasonable thing to do was to pray for a miracle. His parents and their friends and acquaintances asked God to intervene. As a result, over the next few months, God did a series of medical miracles for which He was now receiving all the glory. After only 25 weeks in the womb, Jeremiah had dropped into position and slipped bravely out into a dangerous world.
With much diligent parenting and many more prayers, Jeremiah, his parents, and his three sisters have pushed through to a life of normalcy. Jeremiah passed a major milestone a couple of weeks ago - he was taken off the last of his medications. Soon he will be ready to leave his home and venture out into the real world. All of this, just in time for Mothers’ Day.
Many families will be celebrating Mother’s day on May 11th, but few will have such a story to tell as Jeremiah’s parents. He will attend church for the first time in his life this Mothers’ Day, and his mother and father will be publicly sharing the details of their extraordinary journey. They will be celebrating the many challenging events they encountered and the obvious divine interventions they witnessed. It will be a time when many friends and family will once again stand in awe at the God who makes all births possible. It will be a time when they will pause to consider the power of a praying mother and father. Many prayers of thanksgiving will be offered up to the God who still does the impossible.
Perhaps you and your family are facing circumstances that are beyond your control. Maybe you need a miracle. God is still in the miracle business. Prayer still works. Jeremiah is living proof.

The Apple of His Eye

John W. Hanson — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 19:34:00 +0000

Nestled between Boston and Springfield, on the Southern border of Massachusetts, is the quaint, New England town of Southbridge. Because for many years American Optical (once the largest company of its kind) based its operations out of Southbridge, the town earned the nickname: “The Eye of the Commonweath.” American Optical has since taken its business elsewhere, but Southbridge has continued to make history in the area of optics – fiber optics. There are several fiber optic companies in town. Some have dubbed Southbridge the birthplace of fiber optics. But the nickname, “eye of the common wealth,” still stands.

Southbridge’s nickname reminds me of another -- God’s nickname for His people. Several times in Scripture those who believed in God as “the one and only God” were referred to as “The Apple of His Eye.” One psalmist prayed, “Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,” (Psalms 17:8) This endearing term made reference to the most important and most carefully guarded portion of the eye – the pupil.

God watches over his own as carefully as a person guards his very eyesight. Like a mother hen or a she-bear protects her young, God protects those who put their trust in Him. The Living Bible says it like this: "The Lord of Glory has sent me against the nations that oppressed you, for he who harms you sticks his finger in Jehovah's eye! I will smash them with my fist and their slaves will be their rulers! Then you will know it was the Lord Almighty who sent me.” (Zechariah 2:8-9) Throughout history God’s careful watch over His own was demonstrated:

He took care of the Israelites in the wilderness
He saved David from Giolath
He saved Daniel from the lions
He saved Jesus from the sword of Herod.

That is just a sampling of the many historically-proven Bible stories which illustrate His protective care.

Secular history, as well as other portions of Scripture, help us understand that even though God protects his own, He does not completely shield them from hurt and pain. Rather, ultimately, God keeps score. Sometimes He evens the score in “time”; other scores will be settled in “eternity.” The beauty of this truth is that those of us who trust Him can relax. Vengeance belongs to God, (Romans 12:19) so His children are free to let go of the offenses that people and life bring our way. People may mistreat us, but God will not fail us.

It is impossible to fathom just how much He loves His own! The Good News is that if you can truly believe in Jesus Christ and follow His plan for living, you will free Him to guard you like you were his very own eyesight. No one could be safer than the apple of His eye.

If you are wondering how God’s protection plays out in real life, there’s a great historical account of that in the Bible. The book of Acts tells the story of the disciples and other first-century Christians who put their trust in Christ. Their faith led them to repentance, baptism and the infilling of the Holy Spirit. They encountered life’s challenges knowing that God was on their side. Great miracles took place on their behalf. They became known as Christians.

We live in troubled times. The world economy is uncertain, world governments and world religions are volatile. How comforting it is to have the Creator of the universe watching over you in times like these. I am wondering if there might be some folks who live in the “eye of the commonwealth” who would be interested in trusting God more completely so they can be “the apple of His eye.”

Abstain? Preposterous!

John W. Hanson — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 18:21:00 +0000

I genuinely appreciate the many dedicated professionals who speak reasonable caution into my life. Please allow me to thank a few of the professions which, because of their real-world experience, encourage me to abstain from things that would be harmful. Forgive me as I also mention a few tongue-in-cheek observations and then pose a few questions to some who are giving bad advice.

Let me start with you, Dr. Dentist. Thank you for reminding me to brush, floss and chew sugar free gum. I must note, however, that if I chose the lazy way you could just fill my cavities or pull my teeth. You could fix it, couldn't you?

Thank you, Dr. Psychiatrist, for recommending that I avoid caffeine, read good books, and find time to relax in order to calm my nerves. Although, I could just keep doing my own thing and you could give me a barbiturate instead. You could fix my nerves, couldn't you?

Thank you, Dr. Physician, for encouraging me to try salt-less popcorn, say “no” to smoking, and jog a little every day; you tell me to abstain so I can avoid cancer or a heart attack. But, doctor, even if I ignored your advice, you could cut out the cancer or fix my heart. You could probably fix me, couldn't you?

Thank you, Dr. Environmentalist, for insisting that I ban the Freon, burn cleaner fuels, and stop acid rain so as to preserve the health and beauty of our earth. But, honestly, couldn’t we blow it all off for now and worry about fixing it all later? It would be painful, but we could fix it later, couldn't we?

So many specialists seem to be telling me it is a noble thing to curb my appetite and to abstain. They say it is noble to show restraint and self-control so I can be healthy and save the planet. They wisely counsel: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." They so often recommend self-control and abstinence.

Ironically I am hearing very different advice concerning two of America's most destructive behaviors – sex outside of marriage, and alcohol abuse. This brings me to you, Dr. Social Engineer. In the name of courage and individualism you stand up and tell me that responsibility and abstinence are unrealistic, dirty words when it comes to these huge issues? Here’s the logic:

Why abstain from alcohol, when I can wait until I've cause a terrible car accident or misused a loved one? Then you can put me in jail and enroll me, my family and the families of those I hurt in programs that will assure us all that America is trying to solve this alcohol problem.
Why curb my sexual appetite when adoption or abortion can “fix” the problems caused by my irresponsible behavior? I know there will be physical and emotional scars. I know that it messes with my psyche and that it could devastate my loved ones, but abstain - preposterous!

Did I hear you right Dr Social Engineer? Are you counseling our kids to be promiscuous (being sure to use “protection” of course) pretending that “safe sex” will protect them against deadly viruses and soul-sickness? Are you looking the other way when major alcohol companies lure our youth to their product and then expecting that powerful drug to not have a negative impact on their lives? Are you thinking that, when they are ravaged by disease and emotional distress, someone may be ingenious enough to come up with a “cure” so we can put the abstinence crowd to silence once and for all? Should we really be making more noise about the ozone, red meat and junk food than we make about promiscuity and alcohol abuse? Dear Dr. Politically Correct Social Engineer, you may think it courageous to take a stand and tell us that responsible decisions and abstinence are too much to ask, but can we really fix it later?

Floating Lighthouses

John W. Hanson — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 17:07:00 +0000

After a storm in late January of this year, a 19th-century schooner washed up on a beach in Wellfeet MA. Being one of the larger wrecks to appear in the past 10 years it serves as a gruesome reminder of the dangerous waters surrounding Cape Cod. According to the several Boston news programs, between 1850 and 1980, there were more than 3,500 shipwrecks in the waters off Cape Cod. In fact, so many ships have piled up on the hidden sand bars off the coast between Chatham and Provincetown that those fifty miles of sea have been called an "ocean graveyard."

A well-proven deterrent to shipwrecks is the simple, but effective, lighthouse. The oldest lighthouse in America is on Brewster Island in Boston Harbor. It has doubtless saved thousands of lives. Since 1716 Boston Light has never moved and has done one very simple thing – declared the shoreline. Still “today, Boston Light's 98 foot tower flashes its 1.75 million candlepower beacon every ten seconds, visible for 27 miles. The lighthouse is the last remaining manned station in the United States.” (www.lighthousegetaway.com/lights/boston.html)

Lighthouses are points of references. They are life savers. Their authority is powerfully validated when they are foolishly ignored. In other words, they are respected because they tell the truth about where the shoreline is. They don’t make the shoreline, they just declare the boundary to the sailor.

One of the cruelest deeds one could perpetrate on a sailor is to move the lighthouse. Worse yet, would be to set the lighthouse afloat, creating a beacon that moved with the tides or relocated at the whim of an ocean current. An un-anchored floating lighthouse would be a weapon of mass destruction.

There are some great, immovable, moral shorelines created by God. These are moral laws that cannot be ignored without serious repercussions. Nobody can change them. Millions have arrogantly ignored God’s moral laws only to crash against the natural consequences of such laws. In His love, God has appointed lighthouses, designed to spare the average sailor such demise. His lighthouses include: the Bible, governments, parents and churches.

One of the cruelest deeds that could be perpetrated upon our culture (especially on our children) would be to move the moral lighthouses; to change our morals and values according to the latest trends or currents. You will notice that the consistent “dumbing down” of American morals has resulted in thousands of tragic and bizarre headlines describing shipwrecks that include mass shootings, baby killings, cannibalism, teacher/student scandals, abuse, and the rampant meltdowns of the rich and the famous.

Where are our lighthouses? Have they been extinguished by the fear of not being politically correct? Do we actually believe that if we say the dangerous rocks are no longer there that they will not cause any more ships to wreck? Does moving the lighthouse move the shoreline? Of course not! Saying something is right does not make it right.

For the record, the shoreline has not moved. Please be advised:

It has been, and will always be, wrong to murder, to have sex outside of marriage, to lie, to abuse your body and to dishonor your parents.
True love, faithfulness to your spouse and children, and hard work have always been and will continue to be the real keys to a good family life.
Selflessness, righteousness and gentleness are still better friends than selfishness, sin and hatred.

Our “enlightened world” thinks it has invented new morals. The problem is they don’t have the authority to do so. “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,” (Romans 1:22) Their “enlightenment” is nothing more than a floating lighthouse. It is worse than no lighthouse at all because their floating light is often trusted - directing more unsuspecting sailors to their inevitable destruction.

Thank God for all you teachers, parents, pastors, bosses, neighbors, and other influencers who have refused to move your lighthouses in response to the intimidation of the politically-correct crowd. You may tire of holding fast in the storm, but that is when you are needed most. Don’t move. Stay bright. The coastline can be brutal, but your consistent moral beacon will make all the difference in the life of some young sailor.

A Snapshot of God

John W. Hanson — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 17:04:00 +0000

My wife has tastefully displayed numerous photos throughout our home. Some of them are of relatives I never met; I know them only by their picture. Several snapshots are of my mother. Because she died over twenty years ago, just a few months before my one and only son was born, the only way my son can know my mother is by looking at her photo. Without the snapshot he would have no idea what she looked like.
Each spring as believers celebrate Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday (Easter) one might ask the question: “Who was Jesus, and why do so many people around the world hold His life and teachings in such high regard?” The short answer to that question is: Jesus is a snapshot of God.

At first such a statement might strike the reader as being irreverent, but my meaning is quite the opposite. Jesus was God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He was God made understandable to mankind. He was the end result of the brilliant idea of God, Himself. God wanted to introduce Himself to His creation, so he lived in a human body and gave the world a glimpse of how loving, powerful and gentle He really is.

This concept is made clear in the Bible. One scripture says that Jesus “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (Colossians 1: 15,16) Did you catch that? He is the image of God – a snapshot. Another scripture describes Jesus as “the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person.” (Hebrews 1:3)

This explains why the Bible sometimes seems to speak of Jesus as separate from the Father and then at other times as one with the father. The Father was in the Son. (John 17) Jesus was God in a human body. When the prophet Isaiah predicted Jesus’ coming, he called Him “the mighty God… the everlasting Father.” (Isaiah 9:6) Jesus was the Creator who robed Himself in flesh so we could get to know Him and so He could reconcile us unto Himself. (Colossians 1:20) What an awesome idea! What a graceful thing to do!

People around the world worship Jesus because they recognize that God lowered himself, became a man and died for sinners. (Philippians 2). As God, His plan was always to be born in a manger as a God-man, demonstrate His character as a teacher and miracle worker, and then lay down His life for His friends. That’s what God looks like.

The Easter season is a celebration of the culmination of Jesus’ life. He laid down His life, and three days later he took it up again. He overcame death and hell. Later he would walk through walls and then defy gravity. All this was a beautiful snapshot of God’s divine love and power. Because we have this snapshot – this historical evidence - we can have confidence that the Bible is accurate when it speaks of a time when Christ will return and take both living and dead Christians out of this world. His resurrection reassures us of ours.

It’s no wonder people gather in churches to celebrate Easter. It’s no wonder they gather every Sunday to celebrate the day Jesus rose from the dead. If you’ve lost sight of God, perhaps this Sunday would be a good day to stop by a church and have a fresh look at Jesus – He was the image of the invisible God.

Christianity Like It Was Meant To Be

John W. Hanson — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 22:02:00 +0000

Once upon a time, deep in the heart of New England, lived a family of squirrels. Sheltered in the strong branches of a giant oak tree, they enjoyed the “good life”, gladly sharing a plentiful supply of acorns and a fresh- water spring. Although gathering food took a great deal of work and enduring the winters was difficult, these happy critters had a sense that this was how things ought to be.

One spring morning these country squirrels were awakened by the screaming of chain saws and the rumblings of a bulldozer. It seems a visionary developer had devised a plan that would bring "improvements" to the area. Architects had designed a huge mall that would surround the great oak, incorporating it into a beautiful courtyard which would be covered with enormous skylights.

The building process was unsettling at first, but soon they became accustomed to commotion and, eventually, adjusted to the many changes. Now the climate was milder, the food was different, and they had much less interaction with nature. Their beloved acorns were regularly swept up and disposed of, but now there was caramel corn, salted peanuts and milkshakes a-plenty. And, the trash bins were gold mines!

Years passed. Now, younger squirrels rolled their eyes as grandma and grandpa squirrel chattered about the good old days. They talked about acorns, fresh water, and warm sunlight, but everyone knew they had over-active memories. Two generations lived and died in this new man-made environment. Due to the mild climate and unhealthy food many of squirrels were sickly. Because of their confinement, they were always on each other's nerves. They often wondered about the meaning of life; what was the purpose of waking up, eating garbage, and watching frenzied shoppers rush by?

Then, one glorious day a daring squirrel escaped. Curious about the bright skylights, he jumped from an upper branch of the tree to a pole. Climbing the pole he came to a ceiling beam which took him to an air vent. Slipping through the vent he plopped out onto the roof. What sensations accosted him! Dazzling sunlight, warm, fresh air and new vistas overwhelmed his senses. Scurrying down a rain gutter to a parking lot, he dodged traffic and darted into the undeveloped woods nearby. For hours he roamed, discovering nuts, acorns, fresh water and healthy squirrels.

Thrilled with his new life, he retraced his steps and breathlessly told his peers of the wonderful “real” world outside. They laughed, declaring, “That kind of world doesn’t exist any more!” Disappointed that they would not believe, the squirrel quietly slipped back out into life - as it was meant to be.

Once upon a time not long after the Day of Pentecost, some Christians were having church like it was meant to be. But then developers came along. “Progress” was made. Creeds were written, rituals were developed, and soon the climate seemed to be a little more controlled. Eventually services were planned to the smallest detail, politically incorrect doctrines were carefully altered, action was taken to make the church more culturally sensitive, and institutions and procedures were established to insure that all interaction with the real spiritual world was carefully buffered by "the church". No longer were people challenged to pick up their crosses. Money or good works became the means to forgiveness rather than godly sorrow and repentance. Baptism was redefined and speaking in tongues was considered a thing of the past. Soon, nothing more than obscure references to real Christianity survived. Christians became emaciated and sickly.

But occasionally some brave soul will escape back to the original. (see the book of Acts) Upon doing so, their spiritual senses are overwhelmed with God’s love and power. Their lives are drastically changed. Of course, others often laugh or persecute them. Nevertheless, Christianity - like it was meant to be - can still be a reality. Maybe you should slip out and take a peek.

Jesus; In A Class Of His Own

John W. Hanson — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 20:26:00 +0000

A ton of granite pebbles is sold for ten dollars. The Hope Diamond, could be sold for two hundred fifty million dollars - more than most of us will earn in a lifetime. What’s the difference? Aren’t they all hard rocks? Yes, but the 45.52 carat Hope Diamond is many times harder, infinitely more transparent, much more beautiful, and extremely rare; it is in a class of its own.

The same is true of people. Throughout history, there have been millions of important religious leaders, prophets and teachers. But none of them have affected mankind as powerfully and positively as Jesus Christ. Someone might ask, “What makes Jesus different?” He is in a class of His own. He is one of a kind.

Perhaps, like me, you have often been surprised at the intellectual dishonesty of many people who are attempting to be politically correct and refer to Jesus as just one of the great prophets or teachers. Jesus was not like other great religious leaders. He is in a league of His own. Consider a short list of exceptional qualities that set Jesus Christ far apart from any other historical, religious leader:

His birth, ministry, death, and resurrection were accurately predicted by hundreds of scriptures, which were written by multiple prophets, who lived in varied times and places.
He was virgin-born.
Angels declared His birth and a star marked His birthplace.
He healed many diseases and performed many miracles.
He raised three people from the dead – one of them had been dead for three days.
He claimed to be God.
He predicted his own death and resurrection.
He rose from the dead.
He ascended into heaven with a promise to return.
He left with a promise to fill believers with His Spirit, which took place 10 days later and continues to take place until this day.

In addition to the distinctive qualities mentioned above, it must be noted that Jesus didn’t claim to be a prophet -- He claimed to be God in flesh. That is why the Jews considered Him to be a blasphemer. (John 8) Jesus’ contemporaries didn’t object to His good teaching; they objected to His claim to be God. In fact, the primary doctrine that still sets true Christianity apart from other religions is the claim that Jesus is God and that “there is none other name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

If Jesus were just a good man, the greatest doctrine of Christianity would not be possible. Christianity is all about the redemptive death of Jesus Christ. The death of a great man would not have been valuable enough to pay for the sins of mankind. Only the blood of a spotless Lamb could do that. Jesus was not simply a prophet, a great teacher, or the founder of a great religion. Jesus was God manifested in flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He was God in Christ, reconciling the world to himself. (2 Corinthians 5:19) He was “the image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15) He was, and is, “the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace...”(Isaiah 9:6)

The uniqueness and divinity of Christ may not be evident to everyone quite yet, but one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord.” (Philippians 2:10-11) And, because Jesus is so rare… so special… so priceless, true believers commit every aspect of their lives to Him. They do not lump Him in with other prophets and teachers. They recognize that He is in a class of His own. He is one of a kind.

Thank You Ladies and Gentlemen

John W. Hanson — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 22:59:00 +0000

A man and a woman were approaching the entryway of a public building. Recognizing they would arrive at the door simultaneously, the man quickened his step, opened the door, and stood aside so the woman could enter the building. The woman, obviously offended, stopped and said, “You don’t need to hold the door for me just because I’m a woman.” To which the man aptly replied, “Ma’am, I am not holding the door for you because you’re a woman, I am holding the door for you because I am a gentleman.”

I love that story because it capsulizes a whole philosophy of life – the philosophy that good character should trump outside influences. How refreshing it is to meet people who are doing the right thing because it is in their character, not because a law, a politically-correct pressure group, or a peer has forced them to do so. What a blessing it is to encounter a real lady or a real gentleman.

I would like to thank all the:

Gentlemen who still hold doors -- because they respect other people.
Ladies who dress modestly rather than scantily or suggestively -- because they are civilized and tasteful.
Gentlemen who still avoid cussing and obscene gestures -- because they still exercise self-control.
Ladies who don’t paint, puncture, overfeed or underfeed their body -- because they have self respect and will not let trends or peer pressure dictate how they care for or present themselves.
Gentlemen who do not steal or lie -- because they are honest.
Ladies who do not put themselves in situations where drugs or alcohol cause them to hurt others or themselves -- because they are responsible.
The gentlemen who are faithful to one wife and who take care of their children -- because God designed families to be safe that way.
Ladies who selflessly nurture their children – because it is one of the greatest privileges in life.

Such people make for a great society and for great families. I have often heard people argue that there is no such thing as “Leave it to Beaver families” any more. Such families are considered nerdy, dorky or boring. I would contend that safe, kind, self-respecting families are not only possible, but they are the only hope for a faltering society. Politicians, programs, laws, or even dictators are powerless to give this kind of life to anyone. This kind of life must be laid hold of individual by individual…. day by day… choice by choice. People who develop these qualities are rare and valuable, indeed.

I was born to a lady and a gentlemen. They were not afraid to instill character into me even though I was a toddler in the 60s. Later, in high school, I took a good deal of flack because I chose not to drink, sleep around or do drugs. I am not as proud of that as I am thankful for those who prompted me to make choices that would serve me well. The most valuable things my parents gave me were imposed discipline, morals and values. I have since researched, tested and accepted them for my own. I don’t live the way I do because a church, government, peer group or society force me to; I live the way I do because it is who I am.

When God came up with the idea of people, His goal was to give everyone a life that was “rich and satisfying.” (see John 10:10 NLT) That kind of life starts with character. Are you truly your own person? Are you brave enough to buck culture, trends, talking heads, and peer pressure in order to be someone you can respect? Being a genuine lady or gentleman is nothing to be ashamed of… everybody wins when you exhibit good character without apology.

Ladies and Gentlemen: thank you for seasoning our society with goodness. I, for one, would like to make your acquaintance.

A Supernatural Season

John W. Hanson — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 18:11:00 +0000

Consider just how supernatural the first Christmas was:
o Joseph decided to marry Mary because of a dream.
o Mary talked with an angel who predicted two extraordinary births.
o Shepherds told people they saw a host of angels in the sky.
o Wise men were led by a star and later by a dream.
o Joseph moved to Egypt on account of another dream.
o Anna and Simeon heard promises from God and then prophesied.

And all of this so that a Savior could be born, and many souls could be brought into His kingdom.

Then came the early church - operating in the same Spirit:
o Peter dreamed a dream and talked with an angel.
o The disciples cast out devils, healed the sick and raised the dead.
o First century Christians were healed of snake bites, saved from accidents, released from prison, raised from the dead, and even translated.
o These believers were led to cities and away from cities - by the Spirit.

And all of this so that many souls could be added to the kingdom.

The Bible predicts that in the “last days” that same Spirit will move on and through believers. It predicts that:
o God will pour out His Spirit on all flesh - He will do a quick work.
o Believers will be used to heal people and cast out devils.
o There will be visions and dreams and a demonstration of supernatural “gifts.”
o All of this is going to happen where God’s people believe he is the same yesterday today and forever.
o All of this will happen where people pray and obey.

And all of this so that many souls can be added to the kingdom.

Dare to believe God for the supernatural this Christmas!

Christianity's First Sermon

John W. Hanson — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 20:43:00 +0000

Have you ever probed the teachings of Christianity only to become confused at the diversity of thought and doctrine? Have you wondered why there are so many different kinds of churches? Who is right and how can anyone be sure? This line of questioning is especially important with regards to salvation; how can an honest and sincere believer be sure they are bound for heaven?

Allow me to propose a very logical, simple and sure way to settle these questions: Do your own investigation. Go back to the original documents. Find out what Jesus and His disciples taught. Read what the founding fathers of Christianity had to say.

Providentially, the account of the first Christian meeting ever held was documented in great detail and went something like this: The audience was engaged. Thousands of people were attempting to get a better view of the phenomenon everyone was talking about – people were praying, acting drunk and speaking in languages they had never learned. Simon Bar Jonah was addressing the crowd and explaining how Jesus Christ, the man who had recently been crucified, was really their Messiah. Simon, who most people would later call St. Peter, was giving the very first sermon ever preached in a Christian meeting. This was the “Day of Pentecost.” This was the day God chose to pour out His Spirit. Jesus had instructed His followers to go to Jerusalem and wait for “power from on high.” (Luke 24:49) These people were experiencing the grand opening of the Christian church.

For people who are interested in getting “to the bottom of things” or back to the original Gospel, the above story is a gold mine. It is preserved in the historical book of Acts (chapter two). St. Luke, a physician, transcribed the original message that was preached by St. Peter on the day the church was started. The crux of Peter’s sermon came when his deeply convicted audience asked what they should do to be saved. Peter gave profound and concise instructions on how to be saved. He had already explained God’s role in salvation, but then he clearly outlined what someone should do if they want to be saved (born again). In addition, he promised them that God would respond to their obedience in a spectacular fashion by filling them with His Spirit.

These are the original instructions for salvation which St. Peter outlined in the first Christian sermon ever preached:

“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” (Acts 2:38-39)

The first altar call was truly spectacular. After that first sermon, preached by St. Peter on the day that the church was born, 3000 people responded and were baptized in Jesus’ name. In the coming days thousands more would obey and be filled with the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in “other tongues.” Two thousand years later, after much politics, many doctrinal statements and revisions, there are many people who prefer the original salvation message - a message that has not been tampered with or complicated. Many people still baptize in Jesus’ name and receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, just like Peter and the disciples did. It’s original, and it is powerful!

Are You a Fan of God?

John W. Hanson — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 17:06:00 +0000

You’ve seen the reports. They bring sleeping bags and snacks so they can spend the night in line. The fact that it is raining or the thermometer registers below freezing doesn’t phase them. They gladly pay a week’s wages for a chance to sit in on a hard chair, eat unhealthy food, and scream for hours on behalf of some overpaid people they have never met. Millions of them show up to parades and lavish praise on guys who may even be playing against their team next year. They charter planes, buy expensive, team clothing, and arrange their entire life around game times and locations. A signed pigskin is more valuable to them than anything else they own. It sounds drastic, but that’s what dedicated ball-club fans do!

The commitment, intensity and clamor of fans is always a bit startling. Many impassioned fans unashamedly express extreme emotions by screaming, stomping their feet, raising their hands, exposing or painting their bodies, or even crying. This is true whether the fans are swooning at the voice of a popular vocalist, giving a standing ovation to a politician, scrambling for the autograph of a movie star or spending their life’s savings to sit at the feet of a guru.

By-in-large most of us fully embrace, or at least tolerate, this kind of behavior. At times we may chuckle that someone could get so excited over so little, but there are few who have not participated in the same kind of hero worship. In most societies such behavior is considered normal; some might go so far as to call it healthy. After all, what is wrong with acknowledging someone’s talents and accomplishments? Isn’t it only natural to admire and demonstrate approval toward those who have distinguished themselves in some manner?

I am puzzled, however, at the one exception to this rule that some, appear to take – many people express strong disapproval when they witness others who are openly expressing their feelings toward God. I find it incredible that the One who deserves the most exuberant fans must often settle for quiet, subdued acknowledgments for what He has done. Isn’t it odd that some folks express great passion in the sports arena or music hall, then hypocritically cluck their tongues at those who respond to The Most Famous Hero with any measure of emotion or public expression? That’s not what real fans do!

Considering that man has always openly and demonstratively expressed approval and adoration of other men in a public manner, doesn’t it only seem natural that people who adore God would do the same? Somehow a standing ovation seems appropriate for a “Creator.” When one is in the presence of the “King of kings” it is no wonder they feel compelled to bow down or raise their hands in praise. An encounter with the “Prince of peace” is bound to bring a profound emotional response. Shouting accolades to the one who is responsible for every good thing in one’s life seems like the proper thing to do. In fact, God, Himself, directs His people to worship Him demonstratively. Here is a solitary example of His many such sovereign mandates:

Come, everyone! Clap your hands!

Shout to God with joyful praise!

For the Lord Most High is awesome.

He is the great King of all the earth.
Psalm 47:1-2 (NLT)

Are you a fan of God? Do you express your approval of God as passionately and unashamedly as you express your approval of your team… your band… or your favorite star? If you’ve never sung, shouted, or clapped you adoration to the Most High, you’ve missed a great privilege. Such behavior is not out of order; it is very biblical and very powerful. If you are a fan of God, don’t be afraid to act like it – that’s what fans do!

Call Me Anything You Please?

John W. Hanson — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 18:17:00 +0000

Just how important is a name? How important is your name -- to you? Would it bother you if people used your name to express disgust (e.g. “Oh, Randy! I smashed my thumb.”)? How about if people began calling you by your neighbor’s name? Would you have a problem with your employer making out your paycheck in someone else’s name? These ideas may sound ridiculous, but, sadly, this very concept was recently proposed by a prominent religious leader.

On August 15, 2007 MSNBC reported that “Bishop Tiny Muskens, from the southern diocese of Breda, told Dutch television on Monday that God did not mind what he was named and that in Indonesia, where Muskens spent eight years, priests used the word ‘Allah’ while celebrating Mass.” http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20279326/

This may be a creative approach to appeasing the Muslim community, but I see two problems:
1. Radical Muslims will not be satisfied.
2. God will be furious.

The same MSNBC article reports that Mr. Muskens went on to ask, “What does God care what we call him?” This is a shocking question for anyone who is even remotely familiar with the Holy Scripture. The Bible repeatedly declares that God will defend His name, and the following scriptures are only a sampling of the many Bible verses that tell us that the name of Jesus has been given the highest honor.

Colossians 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
Philippians 2:9-10 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

The name “Jesus” means “Jehovah is become our salvation.” Matthew 1:23 explains that Jesus was “God with us.” That makes His name extremely important. A simple reading of “The Book of Acts” (the fourth book of the New Testament) will clearly reveal how important Jesus’ name was to the early Christians who were “called by His name.” First-century believers baptized in Jesus name, healed people in Jesus name, cast out devils in Jesus name and, ultimately, died because they would not deny Jesus’ name. The disciples and company were not persecuted because they were religious, nor because they performed miracles-- they were persecuted because they stood by the name of Jesus and declared Him to be their Lord.

Millions of Christians throughout the ages, and throughout the world, have literally given their lives because they refused to deny Jesus’ name. It may be that our world culture will soon ask believers in all nations to deny His name. Staying true to His name may soon be politically incorrect -- even in “God blessed” America. If so, true followers of Christ will have the opportunity to underscore the significance, the beauty, and the power of His name, by holding to Scripture rather than scrambling to make a religious or political group happy. Let me invite you to join the many believers who have discovered the power in Jesus name.

Pray in His name and you will see results. Baptize in His name and He will claim you as one of His. Defend His name, and, because it will cost you, you will discover just how much Jesus means to you. One day every tongue will confess, but today you can be numbered among those who honor Jesus’ name out of a love and respect for their God and Savior.

A word to the wise: Call Him “Jesus,” because, according to Scripture, it just won’t work to call Him anything you please.

Saving Lives

John W. Hanson — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 14:49:00 +0000

A small group of grade-school children gawked as lawmen swarmed over the neighbor’s house and property. An ambulance was summoned. We sixth-graders were shocked and dismayed to discover that our schoolmates’ 21-year-old brother had taken his own life. Yesterday he was alive; today he was gone… forever. In my Montana town, in the late 60s, we were not accustomed to such loss. Even today, few things are as difficult to deal with as the suicide of a loved one.

Suicide has become a significant problem in our society. ABC News recently reported that, according to The World Health Organization, suicide claims more lives each year than war and homicide combined. Worldwide, almost 1 million people take their own lives each year -- a figure which exceeds the annual death toll from war and murder. Furthermore, for every suicide, there are also 10 to 20 failed attempts, resulting in injury and emotional trauma. (www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/ 200409/s1195536.htm)

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in the United States roughly one individual commits suicide every 17 minutes, and the total number of suicide deaths exceeds 30,000 annually. The CDC goes on to point out that the strongest risk factors for attempted suicide in youth are depression, alcohol or other drug use disorders, and aggressive or disruptive behaviors. (www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/suifacts.htm)

Our country has recently been embroiled in a vicious debate over America’s involvement in the Iraqi war, because of the many lives that have been lost. Meanwhile, a more serious killer continues taking the lives of the young and old, alike, as if it were a sniper silently picking off his victims – over 80 people every day! What is to be done? How can these lives be saved? How can war be waged against the invisible enemies of depression, abuse, discouragement, hate and despair?

The Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders (www.minddisorders.com/ Py-Z/Suicide.html)
has scientifically concluded that there are some factors that lower a person’s risk of suicide. Five of those factors are as follows:

A significant friendship network outside the workplace
Religious faith and practice
A stable marriage
A close-knit extended family
A strong interest in or commitment to a project or cause that brings people together

It would appear that we all have some home work to do; some home work that could be as significant as stopping a war. As I read those factors it occurred to me that all of those factors can be provided by a strong, Bible-based church. Could it be that as families break up and church attendance deteriorates in our society, suicides increase? If I were the devil I would convince people to leave their homes and their churches. Without those two protections we are all easy targets for depression, addictions, despair, etc.

It has been my experience that a healthy church goes a long way toward saving lives. Here are a few blessing a church can provide:

Classes for children and youth.
Trusted friendships.
Planned activities that include the whole family.
Ministry to individuals that make them better spouses, parents and children.
Opportunities to be involved in life-saving projects.

Many churches, such as the church I pastor, are full of people whom God has healed of depression and addictions that could have led to suicide. Many families in our assembly have been restored or strengthened as a result of their involvement in church activities. The truth is that God not only saves eternal souls, but He saves people’s lives by giving them deliverance, peace, joy, and power. Who knows, your involvement with such a church could save your life or the life of someone you love.

There are many lives that need saving right in our own neighborhoods. I would like to extend my commendations to every one who is working to save lives by making their marriage work, by loving their children, or by being faithful to their local church. Thanks for being part of the solution to this grave problem. Thanks for saving lives!

Local Woman Stumbles Onto Treasure

John W. Hanson — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:56:00 +0000

Buried treasure and unexpected wealth have been the subject of many a daydream and fictional story. Most of us imagine such fortune, but don’t truly expect it to come our way. It can happen. I recently had the privilege of meeting a real person, who lives just a few miles from us, who stumbled on a real treasure a few years ago. My heart was warmed as this successful business-woman described her life-changing experience.

She began by telling me that her personal journey began in a good home and included a close relationship with God at a young age. She attended a very formal church and later married and joined another church that placed great emphasis on religious services, but little emphasis on Bible reading and personal prayer. She lived what others perceived to be a happy and successful life.

Then came the storms. Personal situations taxed her heart and emotions. People let her down. Although she had been faithful to God and her church, she felt like she was lacking the power and strength to face her situation. While alone one evening she began pouring out her heart to God; for hours she opened her soul and cried out to God for help. That is when she stumbled on the treasure. While praying she suddenly heard herself speaking in a language she did not understand. At first she thought she was dreaming. She had never seen this happen before and immediately she began to question the experience. In days to come this experience reoccurred, peaking her curiosity.

Taken back and wanting to be cautious about getting into something “weird”, she began seeking answers in the Bible. Her research revealed that “speaking in tongues” was a very valid and Biblical experience. She discovered that she had received the baptism of the Holy Spirit! The Book of Acts records that this experience took place in the lives of thousands of first century Christians, including the twelve disciples and Mary, the mother of Jesus. When Saint Peter explained the experience to inquisitive observers, he quoted an Old Testament prophet and reassured everyone that the experience was for them, their children, and everyone that God would call to Him. (Acts 2:16-17,38-39)

So, there you have it: This New England native, who attended a church that didn’t even mention this Biblical phenomenon, asked for the strength or power to face her troubles and God gave her an experience she didn’t understand. She has since continued to enjoy a deeper and more powerful relationship with God. She has come to realize that she stumbled on a treasure. When Saint Paul talked about someone having the Holy Spirit in them he described it as a “treasure in earthen vessels.” (II Corinthians 4:7) In another letter Saint Paul wrote: “A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally… I thank God that I speak in tongues more than any of you.” (I Corinthians 14:4,18 NLT) This woman had stumbled on the greatest treasure a person can find – God’s power within them.

Throughout history many Christians like the Waldenses, participants in the Great Awakenings (including many in New England), and the Shakers rediscovered this power that was made available to all believers just a few days after Jesus ascended into heaven. Today there are millions of Christians from almost every denomination who have experienced the joy of this great treasure. Maybe this is the kind of treasure for which your soul is longing.

Stairway to Heaven

John W. Hanson — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:54:00 +0000

In 1971 Led Zeppelin IV released a song written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. The song became one of the most well-known and popular rock songs ever, in spite of the fact that it was never released as a single. It is still thought to be the biggest-selling single piece of sheet music in the world. To this day, it continues to top radio lists of the greatest rock songs, including Rolling Stones, 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song is Stairway To Heaven.

Many readers may be familiar with the song Stairway to Heaven, but few may be aware that the Bible spoke of The Stairway to Heaven thousands of years ago -- the real Stairway to Heaven. The Stairway mentioned in Scripture is far more beautiful and powerful than the stairway Led sang about. Millions of people, worldwide, have sung about the Stairway to which I refer. Perhaps it’s time you joined the chorus.

Jesus, Himself, told us He was the “Stairway to Heaven.” When choosing His disciples He invited Nathaniel to join His team, and told him that he (supernaturally) saw him under a fig tree. When Nathaniel expressed his awe at Jesus’ supernatural power, Jesus said:

“Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” Then he said, “I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth.” (John 1:50-51 NLT)

Just as Jacob’s ladder (a type of Christ - Genesis 28) provided a way for angels to go between heaven and earth, the life of Jesus bridged the gap between heaven and earth. He came here so we could go there! He broke a barrier so we could pass from death to life John 5:24). By His incarnation (becoming a man), He became “The Stairway to Heaven.”

Below is a short list of scriptural references that teach this concept:

· He was the one-and-only God-man; He was virgin-born (Matthew 1:23).

· In Scripture Jesus is referred to many times as the Son of God and many other times as the Son of Man.

· God took on the form of man (Philippians 2:7), manifested Himself in flesh (I Timothy 3:16), and became the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15).

· He is called “The Way, the Truth and the Life,” (John 14:6) and He referred to Himself as the only door to eternal life (John 10:9).

· First century Christians were saved by calling on the name of the Lord (i.e. being baptized, calling on the name of Jesus – Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16).

· He promised to live in us (John 14:17-18) and Scripture declares that His Spirit in us will make it possible for us to be caught up to heaven when Christ returns (Romans 8:11).

Most people will admit their desire to go to heaven. Heaven is not earned; it is an awesome gift. God went out of His way to make it available to everyone. You have been invited to take that Stairway to Heaven. If you don’t know how there’s a great, self-guided online Bible study and a short video presentation available at www.ActsII.org. Jesus Christ is the only one Stairway to Heaven, but He is accessible to anyone humble enough to do life God’s way. Go ahead, take the first step!

Everybody Is Spiritual

John W. Hanson — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 18:46:00 +0000

We are not in control of most things. Wars break out. Health fails. Accidents happen. Jobs terminate. Economies shift. Other people make choices that impact us. Governments and companies effect large populations. So often good or evil appears to intersect our life as a random blessing or misfortune that is, in great measure, beyond our control.

Some may view these realities as reason to dismiss the idea of a good God. Others may choose to give up trying, since so many things seem unchangeable. I see a silver lining. While there are many things out of our immediate jurisdiction, each of us has the power to control the most important thing in our life - our eternal destiny.

We each choose our ultimate future now by deciding what will motivate and control us -- today. Will we be moved and directed by good or by evil? Will we choose faith or fury? Will we choose to live life as God intended or as we see fit? The Good News is that what we call life is only the antechamber to real life. During our brief time on earth we have the privilege of choosing how we will spend eternity. We get to make the most important choice anyone ever makes concerning our life!

Someone might counter, “Well, that’s fine for you, but I’m not a spiritual person.” The fact is that we are all spiritual. Some of us are just more aware of how we are affected by good and evil. Every human being is an eternal personality in a human body. The body will not last, but the person inside will live forever. You are not flesh and bone; you are a spiritual being.

The computer is an interesting analogy of a human being. Electricity gives a computer life. Hardware is the body that houses the computer. All of the activity that happens as a result of the interaction of electricity and hardware constitutes a computer’s purpose or “personality.” For a computer to be a good, healthy and productive tool, a few key questions need to be considered:

What kind of software is influencing the hardware?
What is being stored on the hard drive?
Are viruses corrupting its operation or data?
What kind of firewall is protecting the hardware and software?
Who is at the keyboard or what other computers are interacting with its systems?

Life is a gift given to all of us by God. We live in a body. Our mind, will, and emotions are what make us living souls. Our personality is the result of our spirit living in our body. If we want to be healthy and whole for eternity there are a few key questions that need to be considered:

What spirits, attitudes and ideas are you allowing to influence your mind, will, and emotions?
Has the virus of sin corrupted your software or hardware? If so, have you run the antiviral solution of salvation by grace, through obedient faith?
What morals and values dictate your daily behavior?
Is your spirit (with the help of the Holy Spirit) in charge of your soul and body, or are you running backwards?

Life is so much more positive when we focus on what we can change. We can change our attitudes, our thinking patterns, and our heart - those are spiritual issues that will impact our eternity. People who understand this concept work hard to care for the spiritual well-being of themselves and their loved ones. Spiritually aware people put their trust in God and do their best to take His advice. They pray, read the Bible and attend church services because they realize they are a spiritual being, and they want to make sure their “forever” is in God’s hands. One could pretend they are not spiritual but that wouldn’t make their eternal nature “go away,” it would only cause them to forfeit the only thing that they can really control – where they spend eternity.

Everybody is spiritual. People never die... that’s why we value their birth... that is why we treat them with respect. that is why we encourage them to take so much care as to how they prepare for the biggest part of their existence -- eternity.

Who Are Those Pentecostals?

John W. Hanson — Fri, 11 May 2007 15:16:00 +0000

Who are those Pentecostals? A better question to start with might be: What is “The Day of Pentecost?” Pentecost is a national Jewish feast day that was established under the Mosaic law. “Pentecost means fiftieth and the feast was named accordingly since it took place fifty days after the Feast of the Passover. The feast was instituted to celebrate the end of the grain harvest; it was a kind of thanksgiving feast.

The Day of Pentecost became significant to Christians because it was the day God chose to pour out His Spirit on His followers. In other words, The Day of Pentecost became the birthday of the church. (See Acts chapters 1 & 2) When Jesus ascended into heaven, He instructed His followers to go to Jerusalem and wait for power. They did as He commanded and were not disappointed. After ten days of prayer and waiting, some astonishing demonstrations of God’s power took place. The Bible tells us there was “a sound as of a rushing might wind”, that there appeared “cloven tongues like as unto fire,” and that “they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4) The church service that ensued was spontaneous, noisy and joyful. The whole town noticed. Some people thought they were drunk. Peter preached a powerful sermon, explaining that this outpouring of the Holy Spirit had been predicted by the prophet Joel. Thousands of people became believers on that day.

Modern day Pentecostals are quick to identify the Day of Pentecost as their roots. More recently, however, the movement was fanned into flame in the early 1900s. People like Charles Parham and his Bible school students began studying the Bible to determine what was the primary evidence of the infilling of the Holy Spirit in the first century Church. These pioneers read the accounts in Acts 2, 8, 10 and 19 which recorded the conversion experience of early believers. They noticed that the Bible almost always clearly stated that these people spoke in “other tongues” when they were baptized with the Holy Spirit.

Inspired by these re-discovered conversion accounts, people from many faiths began seeking to know God in the same measure as Jesus’ disciples, Jesus’ mother, and other first century Christians knew Him. Soon many people began to experience this “infilling.” Powerful meetings broke out in places like Houston, TX, Los Angeles, CA, and Topeka Kansas. A meeting on Asuza Street in Los Angeles became particularly influential in spreading this new “fire”. The Pentecostal/Charismatic movement has since jumped denominational lines and affected all of Christianity.

“Many call Pentecostalism Christianity's most notable development of the last 100 years, and its phenomenal growth could make it the biggest church story of the next century as well… Scholars estimate that there are 10 million Pentecostals in the United States and 400 million to 600 million worldwide, or about one-quarter of the world's Christian population. The movement is far larger outside the United States, in Latin America, Africa and Asia, where Christianity is experiencing its greatest growth.” (www.religionlink.org/tip_060130.php)

Pentecostal churches tend to focus on vibrant singing and worship, anointed preaching, and a whole-hearted response to the “moving” of the Holy Spirit. Their services are often marked by divine healing, sincere commitment, and times of prayer in which people continue to experience the infilling of the Holy Spirit, initially evidenced by speaking in a language they do not know. This dynamic interaction with the Almighty God makes church a powerful and interactive experience. Perhaps that is why it is the fastest growing movement in the Christian community.

Who are those Pentecostals? They are people who want the twenty-first century church to be just as powerful and responsive as the first century church. May 27, 2007 is Pentecost Sunday. You might consider furthering your religious education by visiting a Pentecostal Church on Pentecost Sunday.

There's A Hole In The Sky

John W. Hanson — Fri, 11 May 2007 15:15:00 +0000

Not to worry… this is not an alarm that the sky is falling, nor is it a warning that the ozone is deteriorating. The hole I refer to is a much more significant and encouraging hole than any hole in the atmosphere could ever be; it is a hole made by the Creator Himself.

Each Easter believers celebrate the fact that Jesus overcame sin, death and the grave when he punched a hole in the ground. First century eyewitnesses told of an earthquake and an angel who moved the stone that covered the tomb where Jesus had been buried. The tomb was revealed to be empty, ergo, there was now just a hole in the ground. That hole testifies that Jesus was who He said He was, and that He now has authority over death and hell.

Forty days after His resurrection Jesus punched another hole – this time it was a hole in the sky. In a dramatic demonstration of His authority over the laws of nature, the risen Savior physically rose through the clouds and into the heavens, with the promise to return in like manner. This is referred to as His ascension, and it stands as evidence that there is life after death. Jesus left the Mount of Olives and entered into an eternal dimension beyond our temporal world. (see Acts 1:9-11)

Jesus, as God in flesh, became our role model. He showed us how to live, die and enter eternal life. He was the first fruits of them that slept. (see I Corinthians 15:20) He then led the way to Heaven. He is The Way. The portal He made from earth to heaven is better than a gateway into time travel, space travel, or some other life-form here on earth. This hole that Jesus made insured that not even the sky is the limit for true believers. When He ascended (with the promise to return) He proved that heaven was more than a theory.

A few weeks before His crucifixion when Jesus predicted His death He also predicted His return to earth. He said, “When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left. So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:37-42 NLT)

Jesus did not foretell His return as a scare tactic for unbelievers. He meant it as a great source of hope and strength to those who believe in a whole new dimension that lies beyond our small world. No other religious leader has ever risen from the dead. No other religious leader has risen into the sky before the eyes of 500 witnesses. Jesus was, in fact, much more than a religious leader. He was the Creator, robed in flesh. He lived among us. Then He punched one hole in the ground and another in the sky! Now He bids us to follow.

That hole in the sky is supposed to give courage to His followers. St. Paul admonished first century Christians like this: “We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words.” (I Thessalonians 4:15-18 NLT)

May I en-courage you: There’s a hole in the sky! It is the portal through which believers will one day travel, as they follow Jesus to the place He has prepared for those who love Him. Can’t wait!

Resurrection Power

John W. Hanson — Sat, 07 Apr 2007 16:26:00 +0000

Above the hustle and bustle of mankind, beyond humanity’s frenzied quest for knowledge, and just beyond the reach of the masses, lie the secrets to universal principles established by God Himself. A host of such principles have been revealed (and, at the same time, hidden) in scripture. One of those principles, the principle of resurrection, begs our attention as the calendar declares the approach of another Easter celebration. The first Easter was not only a dramatic validation of many Bible prophecies, but it was also the ultimate proof of God’s resurrection power.

Resurrection power is also on display a little closer to home, in the world of agriculture; every germinated seed declares the power of resurrection. Jesus referred to this principle when he said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.” (John 12:24-25)

According to the Iowa Corn Growers Association each kernel of field corn, if planted, will produce an average of 800 more kernels. If all those kernels were planted, the rate of reproduction would be as follows:

1^st harvest 800
2^nd harvest 640,000
3^rd harvest 512,000,000
4^th harvest 409,600,000,000
5^th harvest 327,680,000,000,000

Theoretically, in just five generations one kernel could produce over 327 trillion kernels of corn. If the cycle continued and each kernel was sacrificed as a seed and allowed to fall into the ground and die, the earth would soon be filled with corn. The power of the seed is remarkable!

Jesus eventually practiced what he preached about dying and about overcoming death. He was rejected by His own, unjustly railroaded, beaten, and brutally murdered. None of it was fair, legal or moral. Politicians and religious leaders used every dirty trick, and the crowds were only too quick to realign their allegiance. Jesus had every disadvantage. He was politically weak, poor, a minority in the empire, and a heretic in the eyes of many religious leaders. To further aggravate the situation He had a short period of great popularity, he helped and healed many people and he won all public debates.

But Jesus was God manifest in flesh (see I Timothy 3:16) and that trumps everything! Jesus died and was planted in the ground. His enemies relaxed. But on the third day He sprang up - victorious over death. Weeks later, on the Day of Pentecost, He sprang up in the hearts of thousands of believers. To date He has come alive in millions of hearts.

Many people still do not “get” or respect Jesus. All evidence of His divinity is conveniently ignored. He and his followers are still not often politically correct, financially powerful, or the majority. He and his followers are still often called heretical and sometimes even persecuted as He was. Many still make it their business to put to death and bury the Christian faith. But, God continues springing up in the hearts of millions of people world-wide. Those who receive Him are filled with His Spirit and empowered, like He was, “to preach the gospel to the poor…to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” (Luke 4:18-19) May His glory fill the earth!

This Easter would be a good day to join with others in a celebration of that resurrection power. Easter Sunday would be a great day to die to old attitudes and habits and let His resurrection power give you new life!

You Are Christ’s Passion

John W. Hanson — Sat, 24 Mar 2007 15:32:00 +0000

More than two thousand years ago a politically, economically, and socially weak group of blue-collar believers began proclaiming that Jesus Christ had risen from the dead. Immediately those claims were challenged. Guards were bribed and proponents of the story were aggressively pursued, threatened and even massacred. Yet, in spite of Herculean efforts by the most powerful government on earth to quiet the story, it was not able to produce a body or adequately disprove the claims of Jesus’ followers. To date millions of believers have been willing to defend His story with their own lives.

One can’t help but wonder:

Why the incessant efforts to disprove the death and resurrection of Christ?
If it didn’t happen, why don’t unbelievers just ignore the whole story and treat it like they treat the legends of Paul Bunyan or the Greek gods?
How is it that a group of once-cowering disciples suddenly became willing to die for the story, and how is it that they were able to continue performing the same kinds of supernatural feats that Jesus had done?
Why does every powerful dictatorship, philosophy, or government seem to eventually attempt to disprove Jesus’ story, and why do they always fail to do so?
What has given the story of “Christ’s Passion” so much passion?

The “Passion of Christ” usually refers to the week leading up to, and including, Jesus’ crucifixion. It is a powerful, true story that reminds us of why Jesus came to earth – it was for love. He loved us. In short, “God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT)

It is because of His living passion for mankind that His story will never be quieted. His love is the most powerful force in the universe. Hence, every human being must decide what to do with this great love that God publicly demonstrated when He robed Himself in flesh and dwelt among us. (see John 1:14; Philippians 2:6-8) Some people will embrace it, some will ignore it, and others will try to shake it off by finding some way to disprove it. The fact remains that His life, death and resurrection happened.

The most powerful proof of Christ’s “Passion” is in the lives of those brave enough to embrace the life of faith. “We love him, because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) His passion becomes our passion. He convinces us deep in our hearts; down where critics, pseudo-scientists, producers, authors, politicians, and other religions cannot quench the fire of His love.

Jesus’ life, which culminated in a week of passion, displayed his passion for mankind. “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” (John 1:11-12) He offers to let His passion live in those who receive Him so He can be their source of life – everlasting life. It is an incredible offer. The story is out and no human or spiritual enterprise will ever prove it wrong.

You are the reason Christ endured the unspeakable cruelty of Calvary; He wanted a personal relationship with you. Since it is love He wants, He will not force Himself on anyone. I encourage you to embrace His love story and love Him back. YOU are Christ’s passion.

Bishop Hanson will be conducting a free seminar detailing The Passion of Christ in Thompson CT, on March 27th, at 7p.m. For directions or more information please call (888) 433–9901 or visit www.ActsII.org.

A Rare Convergence

John W. Hanson — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 23:13:00 +0000

Thompson CT is famous! Approximately one half mile west of the granite tri-state marker of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut, a few stones and rotting boards mark the former location of a train station where a rare historical event took place. Chuck Straub describes the event (including pictures and directions to the exact location of this event) on his web site . Here are a few key paragraphs from his account:

“During the early, foggy morning hours of December 4th 1891 four trains would meet in East Thompson, Connecticut with disastrous consequences. No one could have known earlier that morning that they were all destined to go down in history in what would later be known as The Great East Thompson Train Wreck. This spectacular crash of four trains, is the only train wreck of its' kind in the history of railroading in the United States.”
“It all happened in what is now known as the "quiet corner" of eastern Connecticut…. Within a matter of minutes, two trains collided head on, a third train smashed into the debris of that wreck and then a fourth train slammed into all of that debris. The amazing thing about all this wreckage is that only 2 train men were killed and 1 passenger was never found but believed killed in the burnt out wreckage. About 500 feet of burnt out, twisted wreckage and debris covered the tracks.”

This amazing story exemplifies the kind of convergence that is to be avoided. We plan for train wrecks to be rare. There is, however, another very unusual kind of convergence that should be pursued: the convergence of spirit, truth, and true worshippers. Jesus describes this convergence as a recipe for successful worship: “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24 KJV)

Powerful and constructive things happen when people worship God in spirit and in truth. It is rare that the will of man and the will of God converge in this balanced manner. It is rare that man is able to be spiritually sensitive and also intellectually accurate. Many of us have known people who felt close to God and spent time in prayer, but may have taken some notions to an extreme. Others of us can recall people who have been so academic and scientific in their approach to God that they had reduced him to a formula. What if we could achieve both?

Jesus instructs us to pursue worship that is both passionate and informed; worship that engages the heart and the head. It is the kind of worship that is practical and spiritual. Since man is a complex being comprised of body, soul (mind, will & emotions) and spirit, and since the supernatural world is so vast and mysterious, one must work diligently to sort through traditions, prejudice, conventional wisdom, subjective experiences, feelings, etc. in order to find a powerful personal or corporate worship experience. As one might expect, prayer is the key to achieving this rare convergence.

Prayer is emotional and passionate.
Prayer taps into the supernatural world.
Prayer provides a venue for the total surrender of one’s mind, will and emotions.
Prayer provokes physical expressions of love and obedience.
Prayer, coupled with Bible reading, helps one discover truth.

The end result of worship in spirit and truth is powerful and will often evoke passions and actions not unlike those of sports fans who clap, shout and wave their hands in adoration. The first two chapters of The Book of Acts describes this very kind of worship. It started with a ten day prayer meeting. When a divine convergence of spirit, truth and worshippers was achieved, the crowd was overwhelmed with God’s power. Within hours, the whole town noticed. The entire world has since been rocked by that historic event.

Are you interested in a powerful worship experience? I wonder what would happen if more people in places like the “quiet corner” would let passionate, biblical worship overwhelm their prayer times and worship services. Do you suppose some place in Southern New England could again make history – this time with a rare, dynamic, positive, spiritual convergence of spirit and truth?

Once again, here’s the recipe: "It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration." (John 4 23-24 MSG)

How To Cheat on Your Life

John W. Hanson — Fri, 09 Feb 2007 16:35:00 +0000

Cheating, although as old as mankind, has a way of outwitting us. It always starts with the lie that we can break God’s eternal laws and win. Somehow we think that if we jump off a cliff and flap our arms we will fly, in spite of the many others we have watched fail at such attempts.

Most of us eventually figure out that the person who cheats on a test is really cheating the learning process; they are cheating themselves. In fact, at some level we are so convinced that cheating is wrong that we make laws to insure that doctors don’t cheat on surgeries, contractors don’t cheat on bridge building, policeman don’t cheat by taking bribes, and employers don’t cheat by stealing pension funds. It seems that we all want the other guy to obey the Ten Commandments, but have “good” reasons why we should be allowed cheat. This line of reasoning has successfully destroyed many lives and civilizations since the beginning of time.

Allow me to enumerate some popular ways people have cheated throughout the ages:

We cheat on our health by using drugs, alcohol, and food improperly. The negative results are to numerous to mention. Suffice it to say that these practices kill more people every year that do wars and acts of terrorism.
We cheat on our reputation by compromising deals, telling while lies, doing less than our best at work, etc. This undermines a sense of personal integrity and self-worth. If cheating can steal our identity, it robs us of any possibility for true peace and happiness?
We cheat those we love by running from responsibilities, engaging in immoral behavior, and pursuing selfish interests. For example, the person who cheats on their marriage forfeits trust, respect, peace of mind, true love, honest intimacy, and many other valuable blessing accompany fidelity. Perhaps we have seen too many movies where such activity seems to pan out; in the movies two beautiful people often cheat their way to happiness. But movies are made up. Movies don’t show the elderly man or woman sitting alone in a bar wondering why no one is there for them because years of selfishness have cheated them of a loving family and friends.

Cheating techniques, like clothing styles, have a way of resurfacing in society as “new” and creative, when, as King Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun.” There is nothing new about incest, violent sexual practices, multiple partners, drive by shootings, drunkenness, or extortion. They are the same tricks played on new victims who think they can cheat and get away with it. But cheating ruins marriages, families, companies, communities and nations. Cheating does not start working to your advantage just because more people are doing it. History testifies that cheating has a way of becoming an epidemic that ravages entire people groups.

The good news is that cheating can be cured. In the same way that clean drinking water and basic health codes protect millions of citizens, a few simple practices could drastically reduce the number of cheating incidents in our world. Here are some simple antidotes to cheating:

1. Get honest with your Counselor. God set up system of FREE daily counseling and accountability; it is called prayer. Prayer is a time when we can talk right to God about our thoughts and feelings. Bounce your plans off Him and you’ll be more likely to make responsible choices that don’t cheat you and your loved ones.
2. Operate by “The Manual.” There is currently a deadly stunt that is becoming popular called “Ghost Riding.” The practice includes starting a vehicle down the road and then climbing outside the vehicle – even letting go of the steering wheel. It has been fatal. I’m sure it violates the operating instructions included in the owners’ manual. The Bible is not a list of unreasonable rules, it is a manual filled with time-proven principles that work.
3. Take advantage of grace. God built in solutions for those caught cheating. Although cheating always has repercussions, it can be forgiven and people can change the way they operate. “If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.” (1 John 1:9)
4. Associate with others who have chosen to live honest lives. There are many great prayer groups, Bible study groups and churches that are committed to helping people live complete, healthy, disciplined lives. Worship, fellowship, and accountability will often save someone from cheating on themselves and their families.

Doing the right thing may seem more difficult, but cheating has consistently proven more deadly. You really don’t want to cheat on your life. If you’ll seek Him out God will give you the courage you need to overcome a cheatin’ heart.

Help! I Need a Doctor!

John W. Hanson — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 19:01:00 +0000

Bright lights glared down on my small frame. Men with needles stood poised to do their deeds. This was my first such experience and I was rather afraid. My head throbbed and blood trickled down the side of my forehead and congealed in my crew cut. All this because, earlier that day, as a daring pre-schooler, I had attempted to ride a tricycle down my grandparents’ cellar steps. My forehead now required stitches.

Though this event transpired many years ago, I still remember it vividly; my first trip to the hospital. It was both scary and comforting. It was a new experience, but everyone seemed to be kind and on my side. I don’t recall any snickers. Furthermore, I doubt that anyone was surprised that a small boy with a gash in his forehead would be in a hospital. The hospital is not where “well people” congregate. It is a place of passion and intensity where people are ministered to and given aid, so they can heal.

Churches should be like hospitals. They should be clean, efficient and healthy, but they should also be ready to admit hurting, sick and injured souls. People should know that there are places they can go when life beats them up. They should be assured that it is not hypocritical to go to church when you are experiencing trouble or when you realize you have not been living by God’s principles. If you are weary, sick or in trouble, church is just the place for you. Church is not just for the well, it is for the sick.

Jesus cleared this issue up during his time on earth. The self-righteous religious leaders of his day despised those with moral and social “issues.” Their primary goal, as “believers,” was to look holy and avoid those whose lives were “messed up.” But, Jesus had quite another approach. He was not interested in fellowshipping with those who were well or who considered themselves whole. He wanted to spend time with folks who needed his company. Matthew captured Jesus’ philosophy in this story:

Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?”

When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” (Matthew 9:10-13 New Living Translation)

Personally, I often need a place to heal... a place to repent… a place to cry… a place to get my head straight. The services I attend are passionate and therapeutic. Sometimes church services can look more like an emergency room than a social event. I am so thankful for the many people who have lovingly helped me with my hurts throughout the years. I am glad there are Christians who maintain high living standards, yet they willingly minister to others who are finding it difficult to live a spiritually healthy life.
Our world is full of hurting people. Does your faith lead you to condemn, or does it lead you to administer first aid. If your approach is anything like Jesus’ approach, you will hold fast to your faith and extend mercy. Do what doctors do: take care or your own health, take health precautions, and then tend the sick. Make your home and your church a spiritual hospital; a healing station.

If you are currently hurting and in great spiritual need, visit your nearest spiritual healing station; find a church that thinks like Jesus thought. If it is a good spiritual hospital, you will find kind people who are on your side. No one will snicker – we all need a doctor from time to time.

Good Morning 2007

John W. Hanson — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 21:14:00 +0000

Our calendar declares the beginning of a new year. Dare we expect it to be a happy one? Pragmatic, realistic, honest, everyday people can’t help but wonder if the future will be bright. A steady bombardment of bad news, angry politics, and moral debauchery fan the flames of fear and worry. And, since we now live in such a small world, when bad things happen, even in remote places, the whole world watches and winces. Good news, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to travel as fast or get its share of the spotlight. As a result, one might feel dishonest proclaiming that the new year will be a happy one.

To complicate matters, many of us are not careful to appreciate the daily miracles and blessings God sends our way. For example, it is somehow easier to complain about the failures of our political leader, our boss or our family members than it is to celebrate their strengths and their positive impact on our lives. So, in a sub-conscious effort to protect our hearts and maintain emotional equilibrium, we often opt to expect bad things so we will not be disappointed when bad things happen. It simply takes more courage and energy to risk believing that good things are around the corner. In short, since it feels “safer” to fellowship with sorrow and pain rather than to hope for joy and progress, it might be that we - too easily - give up the happiness to which faith could lead us.

With all that said, I pose the questions: Is it realistic to believe for a Happy New Year? Are we “chumps” to anticipate good days ahead?

I think we would be chumps not to expect a happy new year. 2007 is a clean slate… a fresh piece of paper… a blank canvas… a new digital file! It has all the potential of a new job, a new semester, or a new house. We can all make a fresh start.

If you are skeptical or lack the courage to believe for a good year, maybe you would be interested in a little extra boost to help you tackle the coming year with optimism and hope; the kind of boost that even the disciples of Jesus needed. Jesus’ disciples are honored and respected for the positive impact they had on our world, but they, too, faced the dilemma you and I face. They wanted to believe in a bright future. They tried to live right and do right. But even Jesus disciples needed a little extra boost.

St. Peter might be the most prominent example. He was a blue collar worker who eventually became a great leader of first century church. This man loved Jesus. At one point he optimistically and boldly proclaimed that he would die for Christ. When Jesus was arrested, however, Peter cursed and denied that he knew Jesus. Then, along with most of the other disciples, Peter ran for his life when Jesus was crucified. While Jesus lay in the grave Peter was so disappointed that he decided to return to fishing. He believed, but he lacked courage.

Then came a fresh start. Jesus rose from the dead, commissioned his disciples and then told them to go to Jerusalem and wait for the power they would need to make the most of this fresh start. Acts chapter 2 records the event. Peter, the disciples, Jesus’ mother and those praying with them in the “upper room” were believers and followers of Christ, but on the Day of Pentecost He moved into their hearts and gave them power. They were baptized with the Holy Spirit. As a result, they spoke in other languages as the Spirit gave them utterance. Peter promised this same experience to “as many as the Lord our God shall call.” (Acts 2:39) This was the power to start fresh; the power to go forward in troubled times.

Maybe this is the kind of boost you need. If so, do what the first century Christians did: pray… wait on God… seek Him until He baptizes you with the Holy Spirit. He will empower you so you can sit up on January 1st, stretch and proclaim: “Good morning 2007, with God’s help, I just know this is going to be a Happy New Year!”

Happy Holy Days

John W. Hanson — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 21:24:00 +0000

Tis the season to proclaim “Happy Holidays!” What, exactly, does that mean? Is it an expression used to skirt the use of words like “Christmas” or “Easter?” Is it an expression that means: “enjoy laying around, watching football, and eating too much?” Or, could it be a meaningful and inspirational expression?

A simple exploration of any dictionary or lexicon will reveal that the word “holiday” originated from the two words “holy” “days.” These holy days were days set aside to commemorate holy events such as the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The fact that most Americans still celebrate these holy days in some fashion gives hope that there are still a few days left in the year that could be dedicated to making the world a better place.

Many ideas may spring to mind when something is referred to as holy. For believers, the word “holy” triggers thoughts of a wonderful, loving God and all His attributes. But, what makes a day holy? How does our Holy God convey his love and goodness to mankind?

The answer to these questions is demonstrated in the life of Christ. He loved mankind so much that He “made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (Philippians 2:7-8 KJV) Jesus’ contemporaries didn’t understand Him because He didn’t seem religious enough. He was a bit short on pomp and ritual. His brand of “holy” entailed healing the sick and eating with publicans and sinners. Isn’t it true that his actions prove that the holiness of God is not best demonstrated through religious activity, but through expressions of love and kindness?

We need times of corporate worship and prayer, but then we need to take it to the streets. Believers celebrate the love of God by sharing His love. The holidays are not meaningful because gifts are received, games are played, and stomachs are stuffed. Holidays are meaningful because they are days set aside to pause and reflect on the love of God and then spread it around as far as it will go.

During the holidays it is so heartening to see people retain the spirit of the season. Churches and non-profit organizations are to be commended for the practical ways in which they reach out to others during the holidays. We should all be grateful for the people in our lives who make an extra effort during this time of the year to facilitate family gatherings and celebrations that promote love. There is nothing more holy that a loving family, or a gift given to a stranger. No one could be given a more holy gift than the gift of forgiveness or reconciliation. When a family gathers together to give gifts and break bread, it can be a time of healing and restoration – that’s what Jesus brought to earth on the first Christmas. We are never more like Christ, or more holy, than when we are kind to a stranger, pray for the sick, visit those in prison, or communicate our love to a family member. Those are the kinds of activities that make a day “holy.”

I pray more and more people will recognize the value of keeping the “holy” in the holidays. Your actions will determine just how meaningful the greeting “happy holidays” can be. I trust the Christmas holidays will be bright spot in your life and in the lives of those you touch. Happy Holy Days!

In the spirit of the holidays Acts II Ministries is offering a free CD of Christian contemporary Christmas music to anyone who sends an email to webmaster@ActsII.org. When emailing, please provide a name and mailing address.