Archived Editorial Content
God and Mammon: The Addiction to Power and Affluence | |
| Feature Article | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
IntroductionMan’s dilemma of God or mammon may not be such a rigid dichotomy as one might think at first. Making a decision between God and material wealth seems like a clear choice on the surface for the Bible believing Christian as well as for the pragmatic materialist. When directly faced with the question of God or mammon, one is faced with questions regarding “the intersection of values and money, and the search for meaning among conflicting definitions of success” (Means, 2001, p. 22). In the world today money is equal to power, but power without an ethic rooted in God is a recipe for corruption and social breakdown. Currently, we find ourselves in a “culture obsessed with finding meaning in a world and workplace radically altered by the technological revolution,” which rushes “to embrace the spirituality of the new age” (Means, 2001, p. 22). The scope of this research looks at the question of God or mammon through the lens of Scripture as it relates to our culture in the areas of economics and specifically capitalism. “Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away,” James 1:9,10 (KJV). Money, as our culture worships it, should be degraded to the status of a mere object so that true riches may be discovered. When true riches and true power is found, and an ethic based in honesty toward God and self is maintained, prosperity and affluence are sure to abound. From poverty to affluence the idea of money should be objectified and made subordinate to serving God. Personal PowerTo a certain degree, individuals possess power to influence the world around them, to control the actions of others, and to chart a course of events to suit particular purposes or needs. Individuals or groups of individuals determine what their purposes and needs are based on a values set held by that individual or group. These value sets are sets of principles upon which ideas are deemed good, justified, or acceptable. “If power is a human essence, then power should revolve around the things that people do; that is, how people engage one another in the course of ongoing community life” (Prus, 1999, p. xiv). Individual power, whether power of an individual or an individual group, in almost every case is found within a social context of competing powers—within a community of powers. Personal Social PowerWithin the narrative of history, ancient and recent, many events, engineered or otherwise, connect together to account for the social context or the big picture, which individuals and groups currently find themselves in. “[P]ower is the key to understanding community life,” and “[T]o understand power, you have to look at the ‘big picture,’ to consider structure, institutions, industrialization, class, race, conflict, nation states, politics, and other things of that sort” (Prus, 1999, p. xv). However, this big picture is not the whole story. Because individuals and groups primarily have concerns of self-preservation and utilize power in self-interest, value systems from one individual to the next, or from one group to the next are arbitrary and vary greatly—there are a variety of competing values among community members. The “modern form of humanistic thought leads to pessimism regarding a meaning for life and for fixed values” (Schaeffer, 2005). Not only the big picture of today, but also all of history, and all future, is nested within a whole story—nested within a meta-narrative. A meta-narrative has no greater story to refer to. It can only refer to either God or itself, in whole or in part, as a god. Within the meta-narrative there is an unchanging value system established by and which rests upon its author—God of the Bible. Humanistic purposes and ends disregard the fixed value system established by God, therefore, are considered to reject God. Humanistic thought is a “general acceptance of selfish values (personal peace and affluence) accompanied [by a] rejection of [the] Christian consensus” (Schaeffer, 2005). Mammonism is a form of humanistic materialism, which rejects God. Personal Economic PowerA major part of utilizing power in self-interest is obtaining money and things of worldly value. An ethic based on arbitrary principles and selfish values will refer to no greater purpose than its own self-interest of personal peace and affluence. Personal peace means: I want to be left alone, and I don’t care what happens to the man across the street or across the world. I want my own life-style to be undisturbed regardless of what it will mean — even to my own children and grandchildren. (Schaeffer, 2005) Money is usually used to secure personal peace, whether it is moving to a gated community, a lobbyist bribing an official to manipulate the legislative process, or taxation in return for the government ensuring, insuring, or securing personal peace. Those who are powerless to secure their own economic power are considered to be in poverty. PovertyThere are two categories of poverty: income poverty and non-income poverty. In either case poverty describes a living condition, which is below what is standard, comfortable, or normal within a community. The poor or those who are poverty stricken find themselves mostly powerless within the big picture. “There are three main types of poverty in the world” (McQuilkin, 1995, p. 414): collective poverty, cyclical poverty, and individual poverty. Income Poverty“Collective poverty (which includes class and regional poverty) is the semi-permanent insufficiency of the material means of life for an entire population and can be applied to nations such as India” (McQuilkin, 1995, p. 414). Within the big picture India is a third world country with an economy based on a caste system. The four divisions of the system include laborers, merchants and farmers, warriors, and priests. Even though it is not a strictly materialistic society, the Hindu religion varies from village to village and the value systems are arbitrary. India as a third world nation has less power than second or first world nations in the big picture. Non-income Poverty“Cyclical poverty is the widespread but temporary deprivation caused by disease, crop failure, or economic breakdown such as occurred in the 1930s” (McQuilkin, 1995, p. 414). The U.S. economy is based on divisions such as blue collar workers, white collar workers, military, and government officials, but at times cannot escape natural disasters, droughts, disease, or economic breakdown. There are government and private organizations, which specialize in disaster relief. The U.S. and other first world nations have great power among the community of nations, but cyclical poverty has a significant impact within these nations. Cyclical poverty has a grater impact on nations, groups, or areas, which already suffer from collective poverty. “Individual poverty is a condition of want that results from an individuals misfortune or inability to work, including widows, orphans, physically handicapped, outcasts, aged, mentally deficient, and alcoholics” (McQuilkin, 1995, p. 414). Individual poverty is mostly thought of when poverty is mentioned. Although, it can result from an individual’s misfortune or inability to work, sometimes it is propagated by sheer apathy, a poverty mindset, or a generational entitlement mentality. Those who find themselves in individual poverty that is compounded by cyclical poverty, collective poverty, or both, are those who most desperately need poverty relief. However, humanistic poverty relief—affluence—disregards fixed values and rejects God. AffluenceA Marxist utilitarian definition and approach to affluence is government satisfying the needs of members on a societal level. Just as the caste system, a Marxist system is compulsory and there is no freedom for individuals to choose or concern themselves with the author of the meta-narrative or to find themselves in relation to God. In some modern societies there may be numerous needs, but also the material abundance and productivity to meet those needs. In others, technology may be at its most primitive pre-agricultural level, yet these societies may also be described as ‘affluent’ in the sense that they satisfy the needs of their members. (Rigby, 1998, p. 118) A capitalist approach to affluence can be strictly materialistic, but its definition leaves the door open for individual freedom and a personal realization that there is an author, a meta-narrative, and a fixed value system for it. “Affluence means things, things, things, always more things — and success is seen as an abundance of things” (Schaeffer, 2005). Social SuccessMost who have escaped the condition of want have done so through sheer individual ambition. “A hunger for opportunity and personal freedom was awakening at the same time that western Europe began to provide the means for fulfilling individual ambition” (Means, 2001, p. 18). The emergence of a business-based economy during the eleventh and twelfth centuries provided individuals and nations with the opportunity to accumulate wealth at an astounding rate. In this day and age the U.S. business-based economy provides individuals with that same opportunity to acquire wealth. The values question still lingers. The question of God and mammon is still there. The questions of, “How much income is enough?” and, “How much income is too much?” are still there. Income SuccessJohn Wesley, a prominent preacher during the 1700’s, tried to resolve not only the values question of, “How much income is too much?” but also, “How affluent can one be while preserving a right standing before God?” He determined affluent businessmen “could keep back only the necessities and conveniences of life, reasonable provision for dependants after their death, working capital and just enough over to avoid falling into debt” (Jeremy, 1998, p 137). What exceeded these moral parameters of success was to be given away to organized charity, or the church, or to those in poverty. He encouraged his followers to “gain all you can, save all you can, give all you can.” Still many who, not by accident, but by honoring God through an honest work ethic and by a knowledge of how a risk vs. reward business-based economy worked, built personal financial empires and found themselves providing for and protecting self-interests of personal peace while meeting Wesley’s guidelines. By the last decade of Wesley’s life “a number of Methodist businessmen had followed his injunctions about thrift and hard work and found themselves with comfortable fortunes; they regarded it as their right to derive pleasure from the rewards of their labours” (Jeremy, 1998, p 137). Wesley “deplored the growing affluence of many of his followers towards the end of his life and quite deliberately pitched his appeal to the poor” (Ditchfield, 1998, p. 84). The question of God and mammon at the intersection of values and money, and to which an affluent person is devoted, still remained unanswered and unresolved. DevotionThrough analyzing personal power, poverty, and affluence, patterns emerge as to how individuals fit within groups, how groups fit within communities, how communities fit within the big picture, and how the big picture fits within the meta-narrative. One pattern that emerges is man’s devotedness to his particular purposes or needs and whether those purposes are derived from an arbitrary humanistic philosophy, or a God fearing Christian consensus. Effects Of DevotionThe effects of devotion can be seen in Wesley’s followers, who were devoted to duty through a fixed ethic, as they became successful and affluent, and gave to the poor. In Wesley’s case, even though the ethic was fixed the interpretation of it was not as some questions were left unresolved. However, the effects of humanistic philosophy are apparent, whether applied as an individual or as a group within the big picture, as self-interests become the sole principle upon which success is based. Because the ethic itself is arbitrary, its meaning is subjective and has an even wider range of interpretation. The success of individuals or groups can be prevented or hindered by competing powers within the greater community of powers. When there is not a clear purpose of meeting a defined need, apathy sets in and a sense of powerlessness can overcome individuals and groups. Apathy propagates powerlessness, which propagates poverty. Objects Of DevotionObjects of devotion range from physical things, abstract ideals, to particular people. A person might aspire to be like someone else who is perceived as successful. A poor person might devote to working hard so his or her children can get an education. A generation can be devoted to a certain ideal such as the hippy generation and its culture of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. An arbitrary and relativistic value system multiplied by subjective meaning, which is subject to interpretation, will generate an innumerable number of objects of devotion. A fixed value system, which rests upon a fixed foundation—Jesus Christ—, is necessary for an individual or group to define a clear purpose, which has God given meaning, of meeting a defined need. SubordinationThe author of the meta-narrative, the—as Aristotle describes—unmovable mover is needed to reveal the fixed foundation and the fixed value system, which rests upon it. Man, in all his power, and in his natural order, to escape the chaos of this world must subordinate himself and all that is within his power, including rewards of labor, to God. A Mere ObjectMoney and things are not in the same category as God. Money can be used to acquire power, but only a power that cannot compete with God. The power of money and appeal of affluence can only manipulate the purposes of man. Money and things are not intrinsically evil, but when they are relied upon to determine a values set, that values set is corrupt, shifty, contradictory, arbitrary, and has subjective meaning. When money and things are placed below man, and man subordinates himself to God, true power and true riches are discovered in the faithfulness of God. God’s Faith and ConstancyFaith in God and confidence in the revelation of His unmovable foundation, Jesus Christ, is essential in discovering true riches and true power, which cannot be manipulated and do not appeal to man’s emotional addiction to power. Such a faith borne of living life in devotion to God, demonstrates His truth, His existence as the author, and His constancy, even through the trials of our faith. Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: But the rich, in that he is made low... “The idea … is, that there is a great and important trial of faith in any reverse of circumstances; a trial in being elevated from poverty to riches, or in being depressed from a state of affluence to want” (Barnes, 1847, p. 26). ReferencesBarnes, A. (1847). Notes, explanatory and practical, on the general epistles of James, Peter, John and Jude. New York: Harper. Ditchfield, G. M. (1998). The Evangelical Revival. Introductions to history. London: UCL Press. Jeremy, D. J. (1998). Religion, business, and wealth in modern Britain. Routledge international studies in business history, 4. London: Routledge. McQuilkin, J. R. (1995). An introduction to biblical ethics. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House. Means, H. B. (2001). Money & power the history of business. New York: Wiley. Prus, R. C. (1999). Beyond the power mystique power as intersubjective accomplishment. Albany: State University of New York Press. Rigby, S. H. (1998). Marxism and history: a critical introduction. Manchester: Manchester University Press. Schaeffer, F. A. (2005). How should we then live? [video recording]. Muskegon, Mich: Gospel Communications International. Top  |
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Perfect in Christ Jesus | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Often times teachers will use questions to teach their students. On one such occasion God put a question in me that was meant for my edification, and further for the edification of the church through the teaching ministry He has called me to. The question being, "Which is more important, that Christ is in you or that you are in Christ?" The Quick AnswerOn the surface the quick answer is both are important, even equally important. But, God does not ask because he needs to know from us, He asks because we need to learn from Him. So, a deeper analysis of the question is necessary. The nature of the question signifies a distinct difference between Christ in you and you in Christ. Christ in you"Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col 1:27) Hope is the feeling or expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. In this case hope is the hope of perfection or the absolutely perfect inward or personal excellency. Christ being our high priest sets in order those things that are in us, as our bodies are tabernacles that God dwells in. Is God pleased to dwell in you? Do you resist the Spirit of Christ as He sets things in order within you? I recall a certain time when God was trying to deal with me in a certain area. I did not realize he was trying to deal with me in that area until He showed me specifically. Up until then I had no desire or conviction to quit what I was doing. That thing was bound and tied up by the Spirit of God, then I would walk by and spring that thing back open by my own free will. When I realized that God was dealing with me in that area I had to stop and think, "If God is doing His part I better do my part and leave that thing alone." Once God placed conviction in my heart by His Holy Spirit I had a choice to step up to the expectations of God and stop doing what he wanted me to stop doing. Through the years it seems I rearrange the spiritual furniture of the temple as I would have it instead of how God has arranged it. But, when the furniture of the temple is not set in the right order, I cannot please God. After a time of struggling with things set up my own way, I find it of vital importance to pray as the psalmist prayed "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Psalms 51:10 Hence the relationship between the high priest of the temple and man, as he is a living sacrifice dead to sin but alive unto God, is vital to worship and pleasing God. You in ChristAs a living sacrifice, dead to sin but alive unto God, we find ourselves purified from sin but still lacking. Some might feel this lack as lack of enough love for God. So, the inevitable question arises, "Do I love God enough?" Most would feel somewhat arrogant to say, "Yes, I love God enough." I say though that someone either loves God or does not. There are no degrees of loving God. You are either for Him or against Him. You either love Him or you don't. What gets in the way of the Christian who sincerely claims to love God is not lack of enough love, but the presence of character flaws within. Character flaws perhaps are a lack of certain characteristics. Character flaws hinder relationships we have with ourselves, others, and God. There is not one of us who does not have character flaws. Our best is flawed before God. Our best sacrifice, even self sacrifice, is flawed before God. If the best we could possibly bring to the high priest Christ in us is flawed, how then is He able to make a sacrifice out of us? Those under the old covenant were condemned for making the table of the LORD contemptible by offering flawed sacrifices on the alter. Jesus Christ did not offer and will not offer a contemptible sacrifice before God. Consider these verses:
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Ignorance Is Not An Option | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
| Understanding the expectations you have for yourself will clarify how you communicate the expectations you have for others. Top | |
A debtor? | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
One day I was thinking about a particular person who earlier happened to cross my path. This particular person was not living right before God. As I was listing in my mind unsavory details of character and spirit this particular person had, the Lord asked me a simple question. He asked, "Are you saying then he is a debtor?" "Yes," was my sheepish response as I know the debt that I owe. Top |  |
The Lamb and Sacrifice | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
After a series of worthless sinful thoughts my heart sank as God drew near. He said, "Someone has died because of you today." It was as if I returned to Him that very moment the pronouncement would somehow not happen, but I knew it was spoken forth by God and could not and would not be changed. I was convicted in my heart and thought because I allowed sin, even in my mind, that some evil thing would happen that day. At that moment I heard the sound of a butcher's cleaver and saw the image of an animal being cut apart on a butcher's block. I thought of the Old Testament and how sacrifices had to be made to cover the sins of the people. "Jesus," I said, "it was you who died because of me today." The Lord confirmed this word. It was a spiritual moment. Top |  |
How I Plan to Use My Education | |
| Education Update | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
I completed the Associate Degree program from Cornerstone University on 04-14-08. One of the last assignments was to write a one page summary of "How I Plan to Use My Education." I have not wavered from my original purpose for going to school. During our first class of step one I wrote out my purpose it goes as follows, ``My purpose for going to college...is to acquire the necessary education to fulfill my life's work according to the calling of Jesus Christ." I have picked up five secondary specific goals I use as litmus tests to check whether I'm fulfilling my general umbrella purpose and calling. First, I plan to use my education to glorify Jesus Christ. It is essential to glorify God first and foremost in all things. Because God blesses all things that I put my hand to It is imperative that I stay in close communion with Him and be found walking in His will doing what He has called me to do. As a pastor at an inner city outreach I have been and plan to continue to use skills that I've attained through school to undergird the work of the ministry. Second, I plan to use my education to affect other peoples lives. Not only through ministry but also through fellowship. This means that I carry a witness among believers and unbelievers alike. This witness has carried over into the secular workplace. An educated Christian can be a very effective witness to unbelievers. Third, I plan to find creative ways to make money. This is an interesting concept. Mostly this applies to the ministry and other non-profit entities that I am part of, i.e. Bible Gazette Network. It is a way to keep the Gospel funded without having to beg the audience or run a share-a-thon every other month. Fourth, stop being a consumer. This is somewhat like a life commandment that I heard from a financial radio host. It has bumped me out of a consumerism materialistic mentality. Fifth, start being a producer. This goes hand in hand with number four. It is also from the same financial radio host, but applies to more areas than just finances. It applies to school, work, home, ministry, and anything else I put my hands or mind to. Top |  Wells Biblical Genealogy Charts A graphic resource to assist students, teachers, or Bible enthusiasts and scholars. by Dr. P. Casenia Wells |
Good or Bad Idea? You Decide. | |
| Entertainment | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
One snowy winter evening I had an idea. I knew the next morning I would have to scrape and brush the snow off of my windshield before going to work. So, I thought, "Why not put a small space heater in the van overnight. That way the windows will stay clear and the ride to work in the morning will be nice and cozy warm." That evening I ran an extension cord to the van and placed a small space heater on a piece of board propped up between the two front seats. I directed the small heater so it gently blew warm air toward the windshield. That night I went to bed with high expectations. You Decide. Was heating the van with a space heater overnight a good or bad idea? Well, the next morning I made my way out through the snow to the van. The windows were clear. Small drops of water formed when a snowflake landed on the glass. But wait! Those small drops of water ran down the side of the vehicle and refroze making a two inch thick sheet of ice that covered the locks and door handles. The door was sloidly frozen shut and my ice scraper was inside. Top | |
Understanding the Consequences of Being a Minority Group Member | |
| Article | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Read the full length article Understanding the Consequences of Being a Minority Group Member in PDF format here.
Prejudice and Discrimination1. Prejudice:To form an opinion on an issue, person, and so forth prematurely without having adequate information. Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. These definitions of prejudice speak more about the person making judgments than the person against whom the judgement is made. Some red flags in the definition include preconceived opinion , not based on reason , and without having adequate information. 2. Discrimination:Recognize a distinction, differentiate. Unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people of things. Recognition or understanding of the difference between one thing and another. Within the definition of discrimination there is two strands. The first being beneficial as we are taught to differentiate between one thing and another, and the second being quite corrosive as it is unjust or prejudicial. However, when we move into the realm of what is just or unjust we are moving into the realm of what is morally right or morally wrong. 3. Just or UnjustIt is interesting to me that a culture which prides itself on moral relativity should think itself capable of differentiating between what is just or unjust. As I was reading through the text, Men and women of the corporation, about the men who quarantined the women by only going to men only clubs, or the one woman who stayed silent while the men were telling dirty jokes, I began to understand that there is no discrimination between right and wrong at the basic level of a moral standard. As morally free agents, especially in this age of existentialism, men and women whatever race, color, or creed do not have the moral foundation which supports and declares what is just or unjust. Experienced Consequences of Prejudice and DiscriminationOn the front porch of many homes there is a doormat that says, "Welcome". From time to time I come across a doormat when I'm at the hardware store which says "Go Away". I chuckle when I see it because of its blunt candid message of not wanting visitors. This same message of "Go Away" is often bluntly told to minority or token members of a group. "'But the fact that all of us were having the same kinds of feelings' means something more systemic was at work."(Cose) Systemic racism of white supremacy in corporations is thought to be a norm that was built in. "The problem is the system of white supremacy. Every company contains norms that were built into its culture long ago."(Wetlaufer) Strongholds of white supremacy, white superiority, and white dominance are evidence of moral downfalls of mankind and evidence of preconceived opinions that are not based on reason or actual experience. Since white dominance is a statistical fact in 98% of corporate America, minorities must not depend solely upon establishments to correct themselves. "...it becomes incumbent upon the employee to say look, this is the culture of this place."(Wetlaufer) Wether it is getting out onto the golf course with white coworkers or forming coalitions within the corporation. "Minority members have potential allies among each other, can form coalitions, and can affect the culture of the group." (Kanter) Cultural movements are not some unseen force that accomplishes an agenda, they are individuals who move forward one step at a time. There are many difficulties in forming a coalition of individuals who move forward in unity, especially if there are very few individuals to be in unity with. "...if there are two tokens in a skewed group, it is difficult for them to generate an alliance that can become powerful in the group...." (Kanter) The message "Go Away" can seem subtle if noticed at all by the majority, but to a minority it can be loud and clear and blunt as ever. "...they [managers] may decide not to promote an African American man as early in his career as a white man...."(Wetlaufer) Many minorities in the workforce are eclipsed time after time because of no other criteria than race or gender. "For many black professionals, these are not so much isolated incidents as insistent and galling reminders that whatever they may accomplish in life, race remains their most salient feature as far as much of America is concerned."(Cose) Those who have made it past certain barriers feel they have betrayed others and abandoned the cause of people who are struggling with upward mobility. While not finding a systemic cure for white supremacy individuals can make a difference with the power and authority they are given as long as it appears they are not vocal about it. "He had quietly made it his business to cultivate a few young blacks in the corporation and bring their careers along: and he could point to some who were doing very well and would have been doing considerably worse without his intervention." (Cose) Sometimes minority or token people with power and authority do not want to draw attention to themselves or raise concerns of being an activist. "These women also found it hard to interest some other, secretly sympathetic managerial women in active advocacy of upward mobility for women because of the latter's own fears of getting too identified with a single issue. (Others, though, seized on it as a way to express their values or to get visbility.)"(Kanter) Understanding the Consequences of being a Minority Group MemberRacial or sexist prejudice and discrimination are not the only concerns of minority members of a group. "...pressures and processes can occur around people of any social category who find themselves few of their kind among others of a different social type...."(Kanter) Currently many corporations work with a human resource department or the workers develop an internal network to ensure equality among members of differing social categories. "At Polaroid, we have a group called the Diversity Network Alliance. The alliance is in all parts of the company and includes blacks, Hispanics, and gays, and it's truly not a senior-management movement. It's an initiative run by and for the people at every level of the organization. It's everywhere, and it's great."(Wetlaufer) The problem of supposed white superiority still hurts among racial lines as prejudicial treatment, unexamined assumptions and opinions that are not based on reason or actual experience, is used as the moral standard of how others are treated within a mixed or skewed social group. "It stems more from an unexamined assumption that whites, purely because they are white, are likely to fit in while blacks and other minority group members are not."(Cose) There are real issues of social communication and interaction between tokens and the majority within a skewed group. Even if an equality of persons is reached. "Tokens cannot be assumed to share the same unspoken understandings that the rest of the members share because of their common membership in a social category....", "For smooth interaction, groups require both discretion (the ability to put statements in their proper perspective) and a shared vocabulary of attitudes (the ability to take feelings and sentiments for granted) so that they can avoid the time-consuming process of translation."(Kanter) Society as a whole has a long way to go until an equality of persons is reached. This is especially true when our society cannot define what a person is or when a person becomes a person. As many blacks or women or any social category who find themselves few of their kind among others of a different social type feel that they are treated as less than a person, the question our society cannot answer is being asked. "...there are a lot of destructive traps out there for people of color. And if you fall into them -- if you become angry or vengeful or defeated or complacent -- you lose."(Wetlaufer) As society continues to ethnically reject blacks, many concerns arise from those who see a world which their children and grandchildren have to grow up in. "With so many black men in jail or beaten down by society, whom would his daughters marry? With prejudice still such a force, who could ensure their succcss?"(Cose) Those of any social category who find themselves few of their kind among others of a different social type usually find themselves in a state of emotional fatigue. "...how emotionally draining it can be to exist in a near constant state of adapting to another culture's view of the world, or of having to keep an upbeat attitude in a sometimes hostile environment."(Wetlaufer) What tokens have in common with other tokens are that... "Tokens are the quintessential 'individuals' "(Kanter) Being isolated as an individual within a group is a lonely place to be. An underlying unity among diversity is needed. Unity is quite different than uniformity. Tokens and minorities may have trouble finding common ground within a skewed group even though a Diversity Network Alliance or human resource department exist. "In short, outside intervention is required to break the cycles created by the social composition of groups."(Kanter) Political correctness has been designated as outside intervention. Laws are written and put in the books not because it is the right thing to do, with moral relativism there is no right and wrong, but because it is the politically correct thing or the pragmatic thing or the most expedient thing to do at the moment for politicians to avoid controversy. America is putting judgments of morally in the hands of politicians who are being manipulated one way or another. "It may very well be that the civil rights debate has been so distorted by strategies designed to engender guilt...", "Let us decide, from here on out, that no one need feel guilty about the sins of the past." (Cose) Not feeling guilty about the sins of the past does not erase the sins of the past neither does it remove the cultural ghosts of discrimination and prejudice that often come back to haunt. A Biblical PerspectiveThis unity among diversity needs to start from an agreed upon moral standard of what is just and unjust apart from relativism and political correctness. God delivered His moral standard to Moses, and Moses delivered it to the nation of Israel, however, after many years of rejecting this moral code some very harsh words were spoken against the nation. "Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward. Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint." Isaiah 1:4,5 (KJV) The systemic corruption that has infiltrated America on all levels has to do with the rejection of God's moral standards by individuals. Jesus taught that the corruption that is in the world is of the world and not for those who have the love of God in them. "15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." 1 John 2:15-17(KJV) If we are to be healed of this haunting cultural ghost of discrimination and prejudice outside intervention is required. Not the intervention of a corrupt double minded manipulated government, but an intervention by God through the prayers of His people. "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14(KJV) We are called upon to trade the pride of life for humility, corruption for holiness, and the lust of the flesh for the love of God. Without this basic level of a moral standard our culture will continue to chaotically transgress and continuously redefine what is right, good, and just. ReferencesCose, E. (1993). The rage of a privileged class. New York: HarperCollins. Kanter, R. M. (1977). Men and women of the corporation. New York: Basic Books. The Holy Bible King James Version. (2004). [Ottawa]: eBooksLib. Thomas, D. A., & Wetlaufer, S. (1997). A question of color: A debate on race in the U.S. workplace. Harvard Business Review. 75(5), 118. Top |  Ravi Zacharias International Ministries |
Quantum Physics and Alternative Universes | |
| Documentary | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
AbstractPhysicists ranging from Isaac Newton to Albert Einstein to current day have been examining and exploring with observation and cutting edge mathematics and technology everything from the motion of objects through our space and time to the shape and nature of atoms to the nature of our universe to the possible existence of alternative universes. The many mysteries and phenomena of the universe in which we exist are being probed deeper and deeper as technology and mathematics advance in the 21st century. The advancements we achieve today are built on the foundations of the ideas and theories of the past. Even if theories are proven wrong the critical analysis' which disprove provide information which may lead to correct theories. Read the full length article Quantum Physics and Alternative Universes in PDF format here.or View a slideshow presentation of Quantum Physics and Alternative Universes here. Top | |
Relative Values & The Ecumenical Community | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
The Ecumenical CommunityPastor's and believer's main concern is building and maintaining an ecumenical community of believers. John 15:16, 17. 16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 17 These things I command you, that ye love one another. How is one inducted into this community of believers? Why is the ecumenical community special? The community of believers are a special people, holy and sanctified by the shed blood of Jesus Christ through the redemption process outlined in the Holy Bible. Romans 5:8-11. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 1 John 2:15-17. 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. Holiness: Dedicated and consecrated to God. Devoted to the service of God. Morally and spiritually excellent. Moral Decay and Spiritual WickednessThe world seeks to be free of ob jective truth and ob jective values. In a world of moral relativity Christian values and beliefs are impugned. John 15:18, 19. 18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Romans 5:13-17. 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adams transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one mans offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Ephesians 5:15-21. 15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, butPastor Winterhalter Relative Values & The Ecumenical Community 4 understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Top |  Visit Evangelist Mother Margaret Powell'sIntercessory Prayer Ministry website! |
Leadership Traits | |
| 10 Journal Entries | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Leadership Traits Journal Entry 1 - |  |
The Ice Cream Truck Chase | |
| Entertainment | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
One afternoon as I was working on a job in a city neighborhood a young boy, about 10 or 11 years old, came out of the next door house to toss a football around the front yard. Another young boy appeared and soon shouts of play in the late summer sun echoed through the street. In the distance the melody of an ice cream truck could be heard as it made it's way through the neighborhood. The two young boys shouted "ice cream" and ran inside to pose an earnest request for cash to no avail. The music came from the end of their block when they reappeared with their brothers and sisters. They all, however, stayed on the porch lamenting as the ice cream truck slowed down as it passed. One of the young girls waved to the driver, he returned the wave to the group of long faces. All were silent as they watched the back of the ice cream truck speed up. The melancholy mood was abruptly interrupted by a blur of a very chubby girl racing down the road on a two wheel scooter chasing after the ice cream truck. The slight downward slope of the street was to her advantage as she was pushing herself along. She seemed to be gaining on it, but the ice cream truck driver not seeing her took advantage of the slope also, and sped off to find potential customers in the next neighborhood. They both disappeared out of view behind a row of bushes as they continued down the street. How many of us have the ambition and persistence to chase after the desires of our heart like that? | |
Christian Philosophical Treatise on Luck | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Luck? I don't believe in luck. God entered into the cosmos which he created out of nothing, and I, having been born again through receiving His Word by the will of God, ascribe any event that is commonly understood as good fortune or misfortune to God's sovereign providence.
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Comprehensive Summary: A Poem | |
| Poetry | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Freely given Grace Divine, Completely hidden from the mind. Lively fruit upon the vine, Deep from the Root water refined. Lovely daybreak pure sunshine, On Christ the Rock his Word defined. Bravely shouting ever mine, To rest with Christ after we?ve dined.
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A Critical Analysis Of Meditations On First Philosophy By Rene Descartes | |
| Documentary | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
The Philosopher "It is thus rightly considered that the philosophy of the moderns starts from Descartes as its father" (Schopenhauer). Rene Descartes is most famously known for the phrase, "I think therefore I am," although most of the time it is only repeated and not clearly understood. I have noticed more instances of agreeing than disagreeing with the author when reading in preparation for my critical analysis of Meditations on First Philosophy by Rene Descartes. The Philosopher's Main Ideas Rene Descartes presents six meditations in his treatise. In the first Descartes doubts all things in an attempt to deliver his mind from all prejudices or preconceived judgments, therefore what remains is judged to be the truth. In the second Descartes finds an absolute distinction between the mind and the body. He finds that the mind is made of a substance that is not corrupted by the physical body, that it is imperishable, and is immortal, unlike the physical body, which changes and perishes. In the third Descartes reveals his argument for the existence of God. He addresses that God who is perfect cannot be proven to exist by using comparisons or analogies no matter how good the idea is, because an idea can always be improved upon. In the fourth Descartes speaks about truth and error and the difference between the mind and will of God and the mind and will of man. In the fifth Descartes demonstrates the essence of the corporeal nature, demonstrates the existence of God, and asserts that the demonstrations themselves are "dependent on the knowledge of God." In the sixth Descartes distinguishes the act of intellectual understanding from the imagination. He concludes with the idea that the knowledge of our own mind and the knowledge of God's mind is "most certain and manifest" when compared with knowledge about our physical selves and surroundings. Evaluation of Principle Arguments Meditation One In Meditation One Descartes uses skepticism to doubt all things and delivers his mind from all prejudices or preconceived judgments. He removes the foundation of any idea or truth assertion that is not impossible to doubt and that which is manifestly false from what remains; what remains is judged to be unquestionably in existence and true. Descartes writes that images of things, whether real or false, are formed and found in our consciousness. He does not doubt the existence of composite objects or sciences like math and geometry, however he reasons that Deity may have allowed him to be deceived by some malignant demon in the persuasion of his perception of these likely indubitable objects and suspends his judgment. Meditation One has been very insightful and provided an appropriate response to an email that I received in which the author tried to convince me that the world in which we live does not exist and is no more than a dream, that I want to wake up from this dream, and that I should try and awaken others from it (see appendix 1). Descartes suspends his judgment on the existence of the physical world through a mental exercise and tries to suppose that it is no more than a dream. He wrote that maintaining the false belief that the world is a dream is arduous but he rather enjoyed the liberties that he had is his "dream" and did not want to give them up, so he concluded that of his own accord he would rather stay in his slumber dreaming, that is to stay in his former beliefs because arousing might be laborious and disrupt his quiet rest. Meditation Two In Meditation Two Descartes finds an absolute distinction between the mind and the body. He reasons that because he is, whether deceived or not deceived, still is something. This brings in the law of non-contradiction, he can either exist or not exist, he cannot exist and not exist at the same time, and if he is convinced of anything, it means, "he is" or he exists, even though he is not sure what he is. Descartes finds that the mind is made of a substance that is not corrupted by the physical body and is immortal?unlike Schopenhauer who attributes the intellect of the mind to a brain function. He describes how the mind cannot be divided like any physical body can be divided and therefore it is not made up of a physical substance but a non-physical substance. Descartes believes that the mind is immortal whereas the physical body is corruptible. This assertion describes humans as having a dual nature; a mind nature that is more easily understood and is less complex than our physical nature which is very complex and subject to corruption. Descartes reasoning is very through somewhat lengthy but easy to follow. Meditation Three In Meditation three Descartes reveals his argument for the existence of God. He first states what he is, "I am a thinking (conscious) thing, that is, a being who doubts, affirms, denies, knows a few objects, and is ignorant of many,-- who loves, hates, wills, refuses, who imagines likewise, and perceives..." and considers this first order knowledge. He then asks if God exists and if God does then is he a deceiver, because Descartes says that with out knowing this he cannot be certain about anything. He talks about his idea of God "...sovereign, eternal, infinite, immutable, all-knowing, all-powerful, and the creator of all things that are out of himself..." He contends that this idea of God cannot regress back to another idea and has concluded that this idea of God is not perfect within himself, but has come from a different being that is outside himself who is the perfection of these ideas and is the cause of these ideas. Just as his mind perceives ideas of corporeal things through the scenes the mind perceives ideas of God but does not experience the fullness or perfection of God. He addresses that God who is perfect cannot be proven to exist by using comparisons or analogies no matter how good the idea is, because ideas are imperfect and can always be improved upon. Meditation Four In Meditation four Descartes speaks about truth and error and the difference between the mind and will of God and the mind and will of man. The source of human error is not real in the sense that it depends upon its existence from God, because if God created errors then he would not be perfect in every way. Errors are caused by our defects or lack of perfection, as we are not perfect like God. Descartes clearly states that it is impossible for God to deceive people because fraud and deception are defects and God does not have any character defects. He writes that he possesses a nature, "...of that which is at an infinite distance from every sort of perfection..." and that he is subject to innumerable errors. Descartes has a reason why human error exists, which I thought was very ingenious. He wrote the will extends itself beyond that which it understands; therefore it sometimes chooses false things over true and evil things over good. Descartes writes that if he wishes to avoid making errors then he must constrain his will from judging or deliberating that which he does not clearly understand; in essence withhold his judgment. Meditation Five In Meditation five Descartes demonstrates the essence of the corporeal nature, demonstrates the existence of God, and asserts that the demonstrations themselves are "dependent on the knowledge of God." He writes about mathematics and numbers having first order knowledge properties that pertain to them, and the idea of God has first order knowledge properties that pertain to him. Such as the idea of God is an idea of a being supremely perfect, or that an actual and eternal nature pertains to God's nature just as "all which is demonstrable of any figure or number really belongs to the nature of that figure or number." Meditation Six In Meditation six Descartes distinguishes the act of intellectual understanding from the imagination. He writes about ideas that he himself forms and compares them to ideas perceived by the senses; one is the imagination and the other is the intellect. Descartes writes and wonders why and how sensations felt, such as hunger, thirst, pain, etc, move the will to satisfy hunger or drink to quench thirst. There is part of a sentence he used that really made an impact on my thinking concerning the mind-body problem, "...I begin to know myself better, and to discover more clearly the author of my being...." Critique of Philosopher's Conclusions Rene Descartes concludes with the idea that the knowledge of our own mind and the knowledge of God's mind is "most certain and manifest" when compared with knowledge about our physical selves and surroundings. He ends with, "...it must be confessed that the life of man is frequently obnoxious to error with respect to individual objects; and we must, in conclusion, acknowledge the weakness of our nature."
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Thoughts Concerning Christianity And Psychology | |
| Article | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Measuring psychology's theories of development, which are man made systems of observing mental processes and behavior, with Scripture is like measuring a cinderblock with a spiritual yardstick. The Bible is not merely an encyclopedia of empirical facts set out to prove science. The empirical facts contained with in it are all geared toward the revelation of Jesus Christ. The Scriptures are not to be mutilated or reinterpreted to justify science, because, by the Word all things consist ? by the Word science itself has its very existence. Daniel 1:17 says that God gave "knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom," to the four children of the tribe of Judah. This proves that God is not against learning but is capable and willing to give "knowledge and skill in all learning," which includes theories of development, to his people. In Luke 11:9 Jesus tells us to "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." He is not talking about scientific investigation, he is talking about praying. I believe for us as Christians to receive "knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom" we must pray and ask God to give us these things according to His will and by the power of the Holy Spirit. If knowledge and skill in psychology's theories of development is given to us as a gift it is a blessing and a wonder to us. But, if psychology's theories of development is consumed as a forbidden fruit or used contrary to the will of God then it cannot be justified. Even though psychology's theories of development were developed under atheistic conditions, they were developed observing people who were created in the image of God. No matter how far removed the theorist are or were from confessing Christ, the study of God's created work is not void of His characteristics. No matter how deep they tried to bury the reason of our existence, God's signature and image of life in each and every person could not be hidden.
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Resurrect our Body | |
| Outline | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Pastor Steven Winterhalter The Evangelistic Center November 19, 2006 Bible Study Message Matthew 9:9-13 "9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Fol- low me. And he arose, and followed him. 10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sin- ners came and sat down with him and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? 12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. 13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." It's time, it's time that the local body should be resurrected. It's time that those who gather around Jesus to hear what he is saying receive the gift of life, receive the resurrection that God has for us as members of the local body of believers. Just as "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick." those who are alive in the spirit do not need to be resurrected only those who are spiritually dead. Luke 7:12-17 "12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. 13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not. 14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. 15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother. 16 And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people. 17 And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about." Those who are alive do not need to be resurrected only those who are dead. Are not these things written altogether for our instruction?I know I am not the only preacher out there who sometimes feels like they are a pole bier carrying along a dead church. What does it take for the church to come alive?The bier does not make the dead man come to life. The dead man does not come to life on his own. Not even the love of his mother could bring him back to life. Jesus brought the man back to life. Jesus had compassion and spoke life into the dead man.Jesus have compassion and speak life into those who gather around.Jesus have compassion and speak life into our local church. Hosea 6:1-3 "1 Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. 2 After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight. 3 Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth." We have a conditional promise of living in God's sight and knowing him and his ways "if we follow on...."How many christians pray the sinners prayer only to leave it at that and never "follow on" to know the Lord of glory?How many christian have followed only long enough to adopt a tradition of going to church? Hosea 6:4-11 "4 O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. 5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. 6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. 7 But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me." How deep is the substance of our faith?Is our faith like the dew of the morning that evaporates away with the rising of the sun?Is the substance of our faith like fog that dissipates with the slightest of breeze?Or is the substance of our faith like a rock solid foundation that never gives in and never lets go and withstands any tempest and the mightiest of torrents?
How deep is your faith? Does your spiritual life need to be resurrected?Is your spiritual life like a funeral procession or like springs of elation and joy as one who has been raised from the dead.
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The Influence of Aristotle on Western Christian Thought | |
| Article | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Pseudo-Aristotle teachings filtered into Christian thinking because the Academy of Toledo mistranslated Arabic copies of Aristotle's books for the School of Paris.The western culture absorbed these teaching and cultish doctrines started to emerged from members of the church around 1200AD.Azarias (1988), of the Brothers of the Christian Schools wrote in an essay that the authorities in Paris in 1209 outlawed Aristotelian books, the teachings that were based on them, and also forbade any further studies in Philosophy by the Universities. Azarias continued and wrote that the Pope addressed the issue, because the ban on the Aristotelian teachings were ignored, "...in 1228 Gregory IX. addresses a brief to the Faculty of Theology, rebuking the audacity of those professors who dare to introduce into matters of Faith the opinions of philosophers, especially of naturalists, and who, abandoning the safe doctrines of the Fathers of the Church, endeavour to explain revealed truths by the false and worldly science of those authors." Aristotle is condemned as a naturalist and when his misinterpreted teachings were mingled with Christian Theology, seductive heresies sprang forth which mislead the ignorant of God's flock into seemingly indubitable truths and doctrines.Aristotle's works were retranslated by Michael Scott in 1231 and the ban on Aristotle and Philosophy was lifted.By 1273 Thomas Aquinas had written 13 authoritative commentaries on Aristotle.Aquinas' writings and teachings were so highly regarded by the Catholic Church that he received the title Doctor Angelicus or Angelic Doctor. References Azarias, B. (1988). Aristotle and the christian church: An essay. Retrieved 08/23, 2006 from http://www2.nd.edu/Departments//Maritain/etext/aatcc.htm
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What is fair? | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
And who is the arbiter of fairness?Shall I judge what is fair, then execute it also?Life is not fair, nor does dependance upon luck bring justice. My intercessor, against the great adversary, pleads my case before the arbiter--the judge of all creation.My intercessor could not justify my cause.But still my counsellor made intercession. The sentence for my guilt shall not be paid through years of labor, incarceration, or torture. My intercessor, boldly to the judge, said he would pay the price with his own life and blood.
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Innocence | |
| Poem | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
I am not so innocent, Anymore. Not that I ever was. But my God he does not see, The guilt in me. He has it covered with his own blood. Top | |
Purpose | |
| Poem | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Our purpose was torn Loathing the offense of First sadness then anger but Regarded as worth Gathered, taken up and That Christ may weave and | |
Old House vs New House | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Is your Spiritual life a "fix-it-upper"?
If so do we have the plan for you!! ...First you need to start with a firm foundation. "1 Cr 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." Tell you what, we have all the right stuff.We have what works.And if you talk to the Man in charge you will find out the price has already been paid.
And best of all Free Consultations!! Call right now on Jesus. and He will answer. Lord Jesus Christ, I give you my life, I give you my soul, I give you my heart. Reside in me, I invite you in.My life is a fix-it-upper and I can not fix it on my own. Rebuild my life, make it new and resting on the firm foundation. I trust you and thank you for paying the price because of my mistakes. Amen.
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Letter from the editor. | |
| Education Update | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Over the past few years my wife and I have talked about attending college. And what that would mean for our family if I started attending classes.This summer I did start taking Adult Continuing Education classes at Cornerstone University.I never really liked school much but God has changed me tremendously since grade school.He has given me a purpose in life and the means to reach the goals of that purpose.I decided to publish my writing assignments online.Please feel free to send feedback at any time. Yours in Christ,
Pastor Steven Winterhalter
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Journal Entry #1 Cornerstone University ACE program | |
| Education Update | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
What I want from my education is...structured resources to refer to when I'm faced with any challenge life brings my way.I want to be able to communicate better and articulate all the things that I think about in a more confident manor.It's interesting because in the first few pages of Genesis the Bible talks about a firmament or a framework.Also in Psalms 37:4 the Bible says the Lord "shall give thee the desires of thine heart." I want a sturdy framework that can support the desires of my heart. Now of course I understand the foundation of this framework has to be Jesus Christ, because in 1 Corinthians 3:11 Paul writes "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."I believe the knowledge I attain at Cornerstone will enable me to more fully follow Gods plan for my life.I understand that higher education is not a necessity.I sit under a senior pastor from Tennessee who was not even able to go to school beyond the 4th grade because of economic reasons at that time.He had to work picking cotton with his parents and siblings.But he is one of the most inspirational and spiritual pastors I know. When I complete my education I want to be able to apply what I learned to a variety of areas in my life.My wife and I attend a small church on Sunday mornings and an evangelistic center with a food pantry on Sunday evenings both are small and both need help running the business end of things.I want to be able to help out in this area.God has called me to commit not only money but also time and effort into my local church.Proverbs 3:9 "Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase" even if that increase is knowledge I intend to honor the Lord first with all that I attain in higher education.Another area that I am highly interested in is the internet.I recently registered a DBA "Bible Gazette Network".I have many aspirations and goals for this business.I want my education to give me the expertise, or at least the professional tools because expertise only comes through experience, to meet all of my objectives.The more I read Becoming a Master Student I'm learning to define my objectives coherently, not just pi in the sky ideas, and develop a plan then implement that plan to meet the objective. I also want to learn how to manage my time wisely.I noticed on my discovery wheel it reflected that I need to develop some skills in the few areas.The one I'm most worried about is time management. I think this aspect might umbrella over other areas that need attention.For example.If I improved on taking notes it might save time latter.I look at that previous sentence and think "It doesn't really look like I?m convinced of that theory".But I know I need to work on time skills.An added bonus that I did not expect is learning about myself.This surprised me because I thought I was only going to learn "stuff" but I'm learning a lot about me.
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Journal Entry #2 Cornerstone University ACE program | |
| Education Update | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
The first time I preached. Up until the then congregation had only known me as a music leader. The worship service had ended and I could tell the people wondered why I had worn a suit on that particular Sunday. Pastor John had gotten up to say a few words before he changed the service over. My heart was racing with anticipation. But at the same time there was. . . a calm in my spirit, a subtle confidence that I didn't have the night before when I was preparing the sermon. I spoke with my Grandmother months earlier about being called as a minister. She told me how dreadfully terrible it would be to have to speak in front of all those people. With everybody looking at me and all. As I was trying to convince her it would be ok, I was saying things like "half the battle is having the courage go up there" and "as long as they stay awake I'll know I?m doing ok. " As a music leader I was able to stay looking toward the congregation during many guest speakers and I would gage how they were doing based on how many people fell asleep. This is agrass roots evangelistic style church with a food pantry. Many people come with one intention to get a box of food. But to do this they have to stay for the church service. So if a preacher can keep people who aren't really interested, interested. I knew that he or she was preaching good. Pastor John started to introduce me as the preacher of the service. I started walking toward the pulpit thinking "here goes half the battle" I seems like I remember every step very deliberate steps as people were watching me walk up. I arrived and greeted Pastor John he handed me the microphone and I thanked him for the opportunity. I opened with prayer and started on the sermon outline. It was an experience that was very humbling. Why would God want to use me to preach His word?I'm not an eloquent speaker or an expert theologian. It seemed like I preached on things out of the Bible that had a direct influence on my life. I preached on things that were substantial in my walk with God. I didn't talk over the people or "over try" to relate with them. I'm sure some of them have experienced things in their lives that I could never understand. I didn't want to be caught faking anything to them. I know I have something real in Christ and I wanted them to have it to. Oh if they only knew!And also if only I knew how to tell them! I felt the loving affirmation of Pastor John and the other leadership as I closed the sermon and gave the microphone back to him. Later that evening I told my wifeI only saw one person sleeping. I must have done alright. She said I did good. And that was really encouraging. I've preached several times since then and it never gets old. God always has something for me to preach on. Something that I've gone through that others can relate to. I've learned to be a good leader you must be a good follower. And when you lead keep looking to where you are going instead of watching who is following.
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Journal entry 48 Purpose Statement | |
| Education Update | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
My purpose for going to college...is to acquire the necessary education to fulfill my life's work according to the calling of Jesus Christ.
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How is communication linked to personal growth in relationships? | |
| Article | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Without communication a relationship would be dead. Constructive communications in a relationship will ... build that relationship and make it stronger. Destructive communications in a relationship will tear down fundamental support pillars and build a defensive wall that can not be easily dismantled. If I did not have communication with God my personal growth in that relationship would turn to stagnation. If I did not have communication with other people I would never be stimulated or challenged to develop relationships, personal or public. I would be a recluse and become engulfed in fear of relationships. Which type of communication needs to receive the most attention? I think intrapersonal communication needs the most attention. Jesus taught that we can sin in our heart, for example adultery, if I look at woman with lust I committed adultery in my heart. If my internal character and communications are sanctified, the external communications will have no need for a babysitter. In Luke 6:45 the Bible says "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh." After the intrapersonal communications are sanctified interpersonal, small group and public speaking is just a matter of being taught how to communicate effectively. How is faith to be seen in the stewardship of communication skills? I have learned that a person believes their worldview by faith. I think faith dictates communication through the filter of a worldview. My faith tells me I am an epistle of Christ, just like in 2 Corinthians 3:2-3. I want people to be able to read the gospel out of me just like I was a book. I would like to be a well written book, an easy to understand book and one where the words jump off the page at the reader. My faith requires me to be a good steward of my communication skills. How is a theoretical understanding beneficial for the long-term development of communication? The book of Proverbs says "in all thy getting get understanding." I think understanding communication theoretically will give me a model to look at, a starting point that will help me analyze where I am as a communicator and where I have to develop as a communicator.It also provides a roadmap of how to communicate according to my purpose. Critiquing others really speaks to me; what to do and what not to do. Which practical techniques need the most improvement? I need to improve my audience analysis. My public speaking occurs among my peers in a setting that I am familiar with. I need exposure to diverse audiences. I think that is the only way to develop skills. I love abstract conceptualization but I have found that if I don't have concrete experiences it won't stick, and I'll forget what I learned. I also need to work on conclusions especially persuasive conclusions. I think I am dry and concise instead of being electrified with passion. How do one's goals in life impact the need for personal and professional communication skills? It seem the higher the goal the higher the communication skills would need to be. If my goal was to be a beach bum my skills would need to include something like, "Hey man, get off my bench," but just like Paul wrote in Philippians 3:14 "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus", my goals are high. Here is a quote from my statement of purpose, "My purpose for being in school is to acquire the necessary education to fulfill my life's work according to the calling of Jesus Christ." This goal requires a well rounded developed set of communication skills, starting with personal skills for stability in personal relationships, then professional skills, to maintain stability in professional relationships.
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Do I belong to God? | |
| Outline | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Below are some key scriptures that unlock the mystery of belonging to God. New! Links to the New International Version provided by Jesus is closer than a brother. There are friends who pretend to be friends, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Pro 18:24 - Revised Standard Version Romans 8: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: Spiritual body natural body 1 Corinthians 15: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Circumcision of the heart. Romans 2: 28 For he is not a Jew (or Christian), which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew (or Christian), which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. Worship in spirit and in truth. Philippians 3: 3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Saved by Faith Luke 7:
44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.
45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.
49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?
50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace. | |
Confidence | |
| Spiritual Thought | |
| by: Steven Winterhalter | |
Recently I clipped part of an advertisement out of a newspaper. Big bold letters spelled out...
the word CONFIDENCE. The ad was for computer security or something like that but the word brought on a series of introspective thoughts. I stopped and pondered for a moment where my confidence lies. Of course the short answer is in Christ alone. But as Christians, do we fortify our every hope and dream by aligning it with the purpose of Christ or Gods will? Do we casually confess God is in control while we blindly stumble into situations we are not prepared for? Situations that could have been completely avoided had we sat down and inquired of the Lord and searched out His will through reading the scriptures? Can I truly say my confidence lies in God if I don't trust him enough to spend time seeking to understand the timeless truths that are within the pages of the Bible? If Christ does confide the mysteries of the Bible to his children, take a hold of that confidence he puts in you, and invest that trust back into Him. The clipping made me think of how beautiful the last part of Matthew chapter 11 really is.
Mat 11:28 - 30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
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How to organize your home library |
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| by: Steven Winterhalter |
I have found myself with a growing number of books.Our basement has become a land of boxed books. What to do with all of these books that I am not willing to part with?Well I have decided to... do what the experts do ? organize all of them into a library.A few years back I was taking singing lessons from a Professor who had retired from Cornerstone College.He had hundreds of book that lined the wall of his home office.Each book had a label on its spine just like you would see in the nonfiction section at any public library. The idea came back to me as I was deciding what to do with all of these basement books.What a job, and how are they organized?Well the inspiration of the idea needed research for it to become a reality.I soon discovered the I also discovered it is easy to learn but difficult to master.I have yet to master the system. Instead I rely on databases to provide the Dewey Decimal number assigned to each book.Each book has a unique ISBN number.Usually you can find the book information from the public library system, but I ran into a problem.Generally our |