My Religious Exemption Convictions

 Abortion-related

Pfizer/BioNTech: HEK-239 abortion-related cell line was used in research related to the development of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

Moderna/NIAID: Aborted fetal cell lines were used in both the development and testing of Moderna’s COVID vaccine.

 Johnson & Johnson/Janssen: Fetal cell cultures are used to produce and manufacture the J&J COVID-19 vaccine and the final formulation of this vaccine included residual amounts of the fetal host cell proteins (≤ 0.15 mcg) and/or host cell DNA (≤ 3ng)

Verses Against Abortion

Jeremiah 1:5  “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

The book of Genesis also tells us that both animals and humans are created as nefesh chaya, which means "living souls" in Hebrew (Genesis 1:29,30; 2:7,19)

“You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings." (Psalm 51:16). 

Natural Immunity Studies

One breaking new study from the Cleveland Clinic (ranked #2 in overall hospitals by US News) states that people who beat covid-19 naturally won't benefit from the vaccine 

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20210608/No-point-vaccinating-those-whoe28099ve-had-COVID-19-Findings-of-Cleveland-Clinic-study.aspx

From Yahoo News: "The largest real-world analysis comparing natural immunity and the protection provided by coronavirus vaccines revealed those who have received both jabs of Pfizer’s two-stick shot were almost six-fold more likely to contract a delta infection and seven-fold more likely to show symptoms and become hospitalized than those who have already recovered from COVID."

https://news.yahoo.com/contracting-beating-covid-provides-better-165600200.html 

Why supporting these studies matters to God:

 Hosea 4:6: “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.”

Proverbs 14:15 “The naive believes everything, But the sensible person considers their steps.”

More Ways to "consider your steps" (Proverbs 14:15):

"Whoever loves has been born of God and knows God"  (1 John 4:7).

‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’" (Matthew 25:45)

Those who have done good will rise to eternal life and those who have continued in evil will rise to judgment" (John 5:28-29, NLT)

The Good Samaritan wasn't a Christian. Yet Jesus still used this Samaritan's actions of "loving your neighbor" (Luke 10:27) and "showing mercy" (Luke 10:37) as a prime example of how to live and follow the "greatest commandment" (Luke 10:27).

Trinity Questions: 3 in 1, or 1 in 3?

While many biblical scholars believe that the concept of the Trinity is clearly stated throughout the Bible, there is no direct biblical use of the words "Trinity" or "Three in One." The only exception to that rule is found in a section that was added to the King James Version, but does not appear in any other versions of the Bible. This begs the question, which Bible is making the error - the KJV or all of the other translations?

The KJV states in 1 John 5:7, "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one." The 2nd half of this verse (in bold) was not in any of the earliest Greek manuscripts or translations, though it did start appearing in some of the later translations (before the KJV).

Since the King James Version of the Bible has been the most popular version of the Bible for several centuries, it's difficult to measure how much its addition of 1 John 5:7 has molded and shaped Christian doctrine.

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the point that God the Father "is greater" than Jesus (John 14:28). But what does this mean? One possible - but unpopular - interpretation of the Trinity is "One in Three" instead of "Three in One," as found in the added KJV verse. "One in Three" represents one God who took three different forms, shapes or embodiments. 

I'm not saying that this is the absolute truth or that the Trinity as Christians generally understand it is a false concept. That is not my intention. Either way, there is "mystery" around the topic. However, I think it's important to understand that verse that was added to the KJV Bible, which has undoubtedly shaped Christian thought for so many generations.

Proverbs 16:16-20

Hell is NOT Our Birthright.

Humans are not born with a concept of deserving hell. It's something that is taught to some of us by well intended but misguided religious fundamentalists. Jesus often talked about hell, but it was always in context of horrific action. However.... The idea of inheriting hell - simply because we are human - is a disgusting doctrine, and one that Jesus never taught.

Of course, I'm sure you can possibly interpret some verses in the Bible which suggest that all humans inherit hell as our birthright. But I tend to prefer Jesus' message over such heresies. Jesus never promoted cruel and unusual punishment for those who disagreed with him. Rather, hell was always reserved for those who were unusually and consistently cruel to the least of these. Don't believe me? Check out my other post here. And yes, God's grace extends to even the most evil of sinners, such as the criminal who repented on the cross next to Jesus.

Yes, we can lovingly disagree, and you are free to cling to a harsh perception of God if you so choose. But for me personally, I choose to believe that "God Is Love - Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God"  (1 John 4:7). No matter what you may have been taught, be encouraged that God is Love, the Gospel is actually Good News... and hell is NOT your birthright. Rather, let's listen to how Jesus spoke of hell. "Those who have done good will rise to eternal life and those who have continued in evil will rise to judgment" (John 5:28-29, NLT).

I was picked up by a Good Samaritan today

Today I took my car to the mechanic and ended up walking home several miles in the cold. I was doing alright, but when a man stopped and offered me a ride, I was happy to accept. He told me he is a Christian and enjoys helping people. His name is Craig, and he goes to First Baptist Church nearby. I feel like small acts of kindness like this speak louder of someone's faith than any amount of arguing or shouting. It reminds me to try and "pay it forward" with "random acts of kindness" in day to day living. Thanks Craig!

James Macdonald and the Harvest Lawsuit

I don't go to Harvest Bible Chapel. I have never been interested in going there. And this lawsuit from Harvest against two former Harvest elders to me shows a deep seeded sense of control that is present in Harvest and James Macdonald.

In the bizarre video where the elder board excommunicated these former elders, James Macdonald says that the elder board speaks for God. Then the elders go on to say that to disagree with their authority is satanic to the core. In my humble opinion, this is insane. Especially in a Protestant tradition that was founded upon Martin Luther disagreeing with the Catholic Church.

The irony is striking, and Harvest would be wise to drop the lawsuit. Their chances of winning are slim, and the amount of bad publicity will likely hurt Harvest way more in the long run than some blog of a few dissenting excommunicated elders.

Pleading the Fifth

“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (Matthew 6:5-6)

A private, non boastful faith seems to be what Jesus prefers. Often, it is the quiet people of faith that have influenced me the most - rather than the boisterous preachers.

In my day to day life, whenever I sense a sales pitch, I tend to immediately lose interest. Also, if I don't feel that my opinion is being listened to, I tend to "plead the fifth" and stay silent. I'm generally not comfortable with any sort of pressure to adhere to dogma, and I tend to think that conformity is often inspired by fear rather than the intellectual process.

If we really want to know what someone believes, I think we should first become their friend. Trading agendas for honesty and respect can help tear down walls and build vulnerability. Then, we can get past any external images that are created to appease some sort of pressure. Chances are, we can best discover each others true beliefs as we lay aside any aggressive agendas.

I feel that the deepest questions of life are best handled with a sense of respect and reverence. Rather than applying pressure to conform, we should encourage truth-seeking and question asking. As Jesus said, “Don’t waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don’t throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you" (Matthew 7:6).

Does pressure turn you off?

Love and Kindness vs. Religion and Theology

I love this Christmas message from the positive life and fitness coach Monica Sancio. In my opinion, Head knowledge and correct theology are far inferior to kindness, generosity and acts of service.

Is God the Father greater than Jesus

Jesus is subject to God: When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all (1 Corinthians 15:28).

God is greater than Jesus: "If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I." - John 14:28

God is greater than Jesus: “I am the true Grapevine, and My father is the Farmer… I am the Grapevine. You are the branches” John 15:1 & 5.

Unlike God the Father, Jesus was born: "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." (Colossians 1:15)

Jesus worships God: “…the God of our lord Jesus Christ, the Father…” Eph. 1:17.

Jesus gives credit to God the Father: "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good--except God alone. (Mark 10:18)

There is one God [the Father] and also one Mediator [Jesus]: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus who gave Himself a ransom for all to be testified in due time” (I Tim. 2:5-6).

Unlike Jesus, God can never be seen by human eyes: "You can not see my face, for no one may see my face and live." (Exodus 33:20)

Unlike Jesus, God the Father exists in Spirit form: “God is spirit, and those who are worshiping Him must be worshiping in spirit and truth” John 4:24.

A Quiet Faith

St. Francis of Assisi wrote, "Preach the Gospel to every living creature. And if you must, use words."

This reminds me of a story of a Catholic Hispanic man I used to work with at Home Depot. He was always friendly, quiet and hard working. He always had a smile on his face. He never told me about his beliefs or asked me about mine. However, one day, I saw a picture of the Virgin Mary on his locker as he was closing it. His quiet style spoke loudly to me, and I remember his example to this day.

Christianity has a heritage of quiet and reverent believers. For example, for thousands of years, Jews translating the Bible would write "Lord" instead of God's name, "Yahweh", in order to show respect for God. They chose quiet reverence over flashy displays. Similarly, Jesus encouraged a quiet prayer life over extravagant, braggadocios displays of faith.

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Matthew 6:5-6).

Jesus also recommended a humble style of fasting instead of bragging about it.

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full" (Matthew 6:16).

I like this humble style of faith, a faith that is more personal than proud. A faith that is evident through actions rather than words. A faith that is alive and well today in people who are quietly changing the world.

Love those who are Different

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."

(Matthew 5:43-48)

Can Saints by Single?

My friend Ian Simkins once said, "Single adults cannot and should not be viewed as any less developed, fulfilled, or actualized because Jesus Christ himself, a single man, was and is the perfect man."

Adding to that, I think it's important to learn to value every moment - the moments we are alone and the moments we aren't. Being jealous of another person's spouse robs us of joy in the present moment, which is probably why the 10th Commandment says: "You shall not covet your neighbor's wife"

Heaven's Entrance Examination

I think a lot of religious people think that getting to heaven involves getting the correct answers on a quiz that looks something like this:

1) Question: "Who is your Savior?" Answer: "Jesus".
2) Question: "Is Jesus God's Son?" Answer: "Yes."
3) Question: "Do you believe in the Trinity?" Answer: "Yes."
4) Question: "Who died for your sins?": Answer: "Jesus."

If you answer the questions on this quiz correctly, congratulations - you won't burn in hell for eternity! Nothing else really matters apart from scoring 100% on this entrance examination. Those who don't are hopeless. Those who do are rewarded with eternal health, peace and joy.

There's one problem. We may be impressed with our A+ scores, but apparently God isn't. As James 2:19 says, "You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder." '

In your opinion, what does God care most about?

Letting Go of Regret

Every human has made mistakes. We have followed our passion instead of what we know is right. We have lied, cheated, stolen and lived in lust. Unfortunately, we can not go back in time, change the past and un-break what we have broken. What's done is done. There's no escaping this fact.

But there is good news. The story doesn't end there. God is love, and understands we are made of dust. God is forgiving and full of grace, 2nd chances and bright futures. When Christ took our punishment, he took it all. On a daily basis, God breathes his breath of new life into all of us. 

The Apostle Paul was famous for murdering Christians. Yet God chose him and forgave him to set an example of "Amazing Grace." And so the Apostle Paul reminds us: "No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead." Philippians 3:13

Pictures of True Religion

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

The Good Samaritan wasn't a Christian. In fact, he wasn't even a Jew. His theology was likely either questionable or non-existent. However, that didn't seem to bother Jesus, who used him as a prime example of love in action. This fact drove the religious leaders insane 2,000 years ago, and it does the same to today's religious elite.

Mother Teresa has won a Nobel Peace Prize and a Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work in India. She left the comforts of her home to build orphanages in the poorest communities in India. Thousands upon thousands of lives were literally saved by her compassion and generosity. Yet, she has ironically received the most criticism, not from unbelievers, but from Christians who felt like she didn't spend enough time trying to convert her patients.

"When I asked Mother Teresa whether she converted [people], she answered, ‘Yes, I convert. I convert you to be a better Hindu, or a better Muslim, or a better Protestant, or a better Catholic, or a better Parsee, or a better Sikh, or a better Buddhist. And after you have found God, it is for you to do what God wants you to do.’" (Link)

Rich Mullins took a vow of poverty and lived on a Native American reservation for much of his life.

Henri Nouwen spent most of his adult life caring for and living with people with extreme disabilities.

I love this photo of a father and son walking in Shenzhen, China, where I used to live. The father is drenched so his son can be dry and comfortable. What a nice photo by my former colleague Jesse Desousa, depicting sacrifice over comfort.

Woman Dies During Islamic Exorcism

Here's a sad story about a woman who died during an Islamic exorcism ceremony, where they tried beating the "demons" out of her with a stick (Link). This is a tragedy, because the woman trusted these "experts" to help her, yet they only made her problems worse.

I feel that religions are often too quick to identify mental illness as demonic possession. With that being said, Psychology far too often promotes medication as a solution. Both of these sides could learn something from Chinese medicine, Homeopathy and naturapathic remedies. But most of all, remember the words of Hypocrites, the father of medicine: "Let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food".

In my opinion, a holistic approach of love, healing and natural therapies would have helped this woman instead of creating this tragedy.

Is Muhammad a Prophet?

I know there are many kind and devoted Muslims throughout the world. I have respect for any person who loves their neighbor and provides for their family. I realize this includes many Muslims. With that being said, though, I vastly prefer the loving and forgiving words of Jesus over the angry tones of Muhammad and his followers. Granted, I don't accept all of today's mainstream Christian theological messages, but I do accept the teachings of Christ as being closely associated with a loving God. In fact, I would even rate the Buddhist and Hindu teachings as being more closely related with truth than with the teachings of Muhammad. The very fact that this statement is illegal in much of the world hints at its accuracy. While many Muslims around the world react in anger and label this "blasphemy", free thinkers should react with logic, reason and love.

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." 1 John 4:8

Definition of Success

I've often been guilty of using the word "successful" as meaning financially successful. But I think the distinction between the two is important, simply because I think there is greater success than financial success. Having money is a good thing, yet I also believe that happiness, health, generosity and love are all more important than wealth. Therefore, true success is far greater than a fat wallet and a bloated bank account.

One person I would consider successful is my late Uncle Rob Eggers. He tragically passed away a few short years ago from a heart attack. When my family went to his funeral in North Carolina, there were lines out the door of hundreds, maybe even thousands, of people who came to pay their respects and mourn with us. Everyone at his funeral remembered him for his kindness, genuine interest in people, fun personality and overall generosity. This is a good reminder to me that the way that we treat people ultimately determines our success and is far more important than the money we make.

What is your definition of success?

Cruel and Unusual Punishment

In the New Testament, Jesus condemns the "eye for an eye" principle, saying:

 "You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you" (Matthew 5:38-48).

Yet I find it ironic that many Christians would argue that God would send people to eternal torment for not having a Christian faith. To me, this view of eternal torment as a punishment for disbelief is far more harsh than "an eye for an eye." For this reason, I personally think it's nonsense, and I actually believe that Jesus didn't ever preach this doctrine. Of course, Jesus talked about hell, but it was always in regards to action (Link).

Sending a person to eternal torment for living a life of skepticism is definitely cruel and unusual punishment to me. It's also far more harsh than the "eye for an eye" principle. Ultimately, I will never accept the notion that a just God would promote "cruel and unusual punishment."

Escape Your Comfort Zones. Challenge Your Beliefs.

One benefit of living abroad is being exposed to different beliefs (imagine that!). Constantly being surrounded by loving families of different beliefs can help shed some light on dangerous and depressing absurdities - such as the notion that they are heathens deserving of eternal punishment.