Tag Archives: God is Not Dead

Which is Right in God’s Eyes?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc5s1ZKNmcc

Jesus was a master debater, always silencing those who tried to discredit his authority.  Whenever challenged by religious leaders, teachers of the law or wise individuals, Jesus used a common strategy to debunk his opponents.  One of the more famous encounters occurred after Jesus healed a demon possessed man.  His skeptics claimed that Jesus was secretly working for the devil, similar to a magician deceiving a crowd as an illusionist.

So Jesus called them over to him and began to speak to them in parables: “How can Satan drive out Satan?  If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.  If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.  And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come, Mark 3:23-26.

To prevent further minds from believing in Jesus, Jewish officials tried to create a different memory of this popular leader.  Thus, one of the ancient Jewish writings discovered is known of the Talmud.  Authors of this historical book describe Jesus as the Great Magician.  Unable to logically explain the exorcisms, healings and miracles of Jesus, rabbis used earthly terms to de-emphasize his power.  Despite these efforts, people still believe in God’s power.

No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions, Matthew 22:46.

As atheists continue to plant seeds of doubt at local college campus’ in the minds of students, is anyone asking what is right in God’s eyes?  Sure, movies like God is Not Dead and the War Room are making inroads, but it seems like Christians in America are fighting a losing battle.  Perhaps, its time to use the tactics of Jesus to convince a generation sitting on the fence.  Thus, whether you are debating absolutes, morality or worldviews, don’t forget to ask what is right in God’s eyes.

by Jay Mankus

Culture Wars: The Sifting of the Human Mind

According to government experts, every child should graduate from high school.  Once complete, pursuing higher education in the form of college, graduate school or a doctorate is the next logical step toward achieving the American Dream.  Despite this notion, entrepreneurs are like a piece of a puzzle that doesn’t fit, opting to create a business, develop an app or find their way by working up the corporate ladder.  Whatever path you choose, you will find a culture at war, battling to win the hearts and minds of the next generation.

But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. – Daniel 1:8

In recent years as displayed in the film God is Not Dead, more and more institutions are sifting through minds to indoctrinate students to embrace a secular worldview.  This process commences by isolating individuals from their home, attempting to strip each of the values in which they were raised.  Staking their claim, often on the first day of class, Atheists, Marxists and Socialist professors make bold pronouncements, challenging pupils to defend their faith.  This re-education process threatens those who deviate, lowering grades if necessary to prove a point.  Finally, entertainment is used as a distraction to help young minds feel good about what they are learning.

“Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.  Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.” – Daniel 1:12-13

The Old Testament book of Daniel provides a blue print for students who are enduring a similar fate.  When forced to submit to new standards, Daniel refused to go beyond outside the boundaries set by God.  This act of faith led to the Lord’s favor, making a positive impression on the chief official, opening the door for a middle ground.  Keeping in step with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25, Daniel devises a plan, a ten day test.  By taking a stand, demonstrating their faith, Daniel and his 3 Jewish friends pass with flying colors, Daniel 1:15-16.  May the example of these young men serve as a standard for modern believers to follow as they enter the Lion’s Den known as college.

by Jay Mankus