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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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Dec 14, 2009 - 04:50am PT
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Well, driving is by far the most dangerous thing I do. I also gave up riding a bike in town as far and away way to dangerous even in bike-friendly PDX. The fact that rock climbing is a considered, subjective activity without many objective dangers is what makes it relatively safe even on R-rated routes (X-rated, I have to give you).
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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Dec 14, 2009 - 04:58am PT
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Objective dangers...Yeah, rockclimbing beats high altitude mountaineering , which is a faith based activity if there ever was one
PEace
karl
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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Dec 14, 2009 - 05:51am PT
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Rox
I see that you have genius in you but don't read the taco closely enough to catch your statement when you first made it.
Tell us your story, and your impressions and we'll burn you at the stake as soon as that is legal again
;-)
Seriously what do you have for us? Jesus said the way in narrow no? Too many believers to fit through "narrow"
Peace
Karl
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Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
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Dec 14, 2009 - 09:43am PT
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Rokjox,
Sometimes those with afflictions are the most gifted of thinkers.
Relax, I miss turns all the time driving because my mind is somewhere else thinking. My wife and kids hate it when I do that.
But my wife can't remember at all where she puts things. Can't begin to tell you how irratating that is. So my wife and I are even.
Einstein was attributed to all kinds of mental problems and social shortcomings.
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Bronwyn
Trad climber
Not of This World
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Dec 14, 2009 - 10:29am PT
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Rokjox,
I believe you...I think it is awesome and would actually like to hear more.
I have heard from God on more than one occassion, audibly, LOUDLY, and I usually hesitate to talk about it. There has been the "still small voice" but at least twice it was a BIG, loud interruption of my thoughts (which were elsewhere at the time!) and abrupt enough to make my whole body snap to attention! I think it would be totally cool to actually see Him!
I am very interested to hear about the experience. It is too bad that Christians have not been open to hearing about this. I do think that over the last ten years or so that others are becoming more vocal about their own experiences, but like you, had previously hesitated to say anything for fear of being rejected. I've had people say, red-faced, "Wow, I have never told this to anyone, but..."
I think that our knowledge of God is expanding all the time. As more people read the Bible and understand it and share their understanding, and we see, through science, the complexities of the universe, we know more about Him than previous generations.
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Jan
Mountain climber
Okinawa, Japan
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Dec 14, 2009 - 10:53am PT
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I teach Asian religion and Asian philosophy courses to the U.S. military and I can tell you from a couple of decades of experience that the students who have had the most spiritual/psychic experiences are those who work in military intelligence.
Of course they can not speak about these experiences in class because of their security clearances so I hear about them after class on a one to one basis. A few times I have received final papers which they asked me to shred after I had read them, as they had the potential to ruin their careers.
This goes along with the theory that the human race is slowly evolving to a higher level of understanding, and those who are more intelligent spontaneously experience things which others have to spend many years in meditation to see.
Alternatively, one could say, that intelligence,especially creative intelligence, is the result of looser controls on brain biochemistry and electrical energy than "normal" people have, and thus the more intelligent and creative see, hear, and feel beyond the average as well.
Of course the stigma involved in not being able to discuss these experiences also demonstrates the censorship of science and scientists in our society, the very thing they accuse the religious people of.
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Bronwyn
Trad climber
Not of This World
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Dec 14, 2009 - 10:57am PT
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Karl is right on when he says we all have faith in different kinds of things.
You have faith that your drinking water is safe. (bottled or not!)
You have faith that the US inspectors have done their job properly and that your meat is free from the prion that causes mad cow disease.
You have faith that your mechanic put in new brake pads, and remounted your wheels properly.
You have faith that your kid's school bus driver is a good person.
You have faith that the person who placed that anchor ten years ago did it properly.
We place our faith, every day, in many small, unseen things.
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Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
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Dec 14, 2009 - 01:38pm PT
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Rokjox,
Honestly, I would like to hear what you experienced. What did you see and what did you hear? What did he say? How old where you again when you experienced this?
Jesus can do whatever he wants, he has that power. But do not be too hard on Christians, like scientists or "doubting Thomases" they want proof and sometimes your or my experiences will not substitute. Everyone wants to see it for themselves before they believe, well at least many people do.
Also know that true Christians will compare your experience to what they know to be true in the good book, The Bible. If it contradicts the good book, they will dismiss your experience. Doesn't mean it didn't happen. The good book says Lucifer (Satan) can appear as an Angel of Light. The good book also instructs us to test the spirits to see whether they are of GOD. Angels behave a very certain way throughout the Bible, Fallen Angels also behave a very certain way and differently.
You have come this far admitting that you have had this experience, it wouldn't hurt to give the details and finish telling your experience. Did his face look similiar to the image in the Shroud of Turin?
Honestly, I would like to know what you experienced. I'm being truthful and up-front really.
Glenn Simpson
(aka Klimmer)
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MH2
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 02:05pm PT
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So what does Jesus look like Rox?
Yes. The facts, please.
I like that you opened up a little chink between atheism and religion with your 90% chance.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_D._Unwin
healyje,
I think that the Steve Unwin book, The Probability that God Exists, is where I got the connection between evil and free will. I agree with you that there is no necessity for one to be unable to exist without the other.
I thought I had come across that statement in Catholicism for Dummies, but on looking I was surprised to find neither good nor evil in the index. Free will is mentioned a few times. For example:
"Free will is sacred. God never forces you against your free will."
"Part of Catholic theology is the Universal Salvific Will of God, which is a way of saying that God would like everyone, all men and women, to join him in heaven. Men and women have free will, though, so he offers the gift of grace, but men and women must freely accept and then cooperate with it."
I wouldn't want to be guilty of:
"...heresy is the denial of a revealed truth or the distortion of one so that others are deceived into believing a theological error."
Catholicism has many very good qualities, but they don't include believability.
But be aware, Rox, because I have specific detailed info on Jesus vetted by the Popes.
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WBraun
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:07pm PT
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They don't look at the facts. They look at their machines.
They only look at their defective machines.
Christ is everywhere and never ever left and always exists as everything in his impersonal form.
All fools and rascals speculating it must be this or maybe that or I think this or that.
Tell them to go behind the building and you'll see the giraffe and they never go but keep saying well according to my data, according to my machine, according to my models, theories, blah blah blah.
But they never go all talk and no go.
Rascals all of them, and then mislead everyone ......
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Gobee
Trad climber
Los Angeles
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:13pm PT
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Romans 8:1-11, There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.
God's Everlasting Love
Romans 8:31-39, What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written,
“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Edit; Daily Readings from the Life of Christ (vol.1) By John MacArthur
http://www.gty.org/Radio/Archive
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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:19pm PT
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Gobee, constantly posting up that stuff pretty much reinforces the view of religion is just dogma packaged so that adherents don't have to think for themselves.
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WBraun
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:35pm PT
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The rascals think they have a lock on thinking.
This is their big defense, "Our mental speculations are the current models".
Just see how smart we are and how good at thinking we are.
We all get together and rubber stamp PHD on the big thinker's forehead.
Still they never go nor went.
The master tells the big thinker to go clean the toilet and the big thinkers says I can't do that I'm a PHD. That's for the maid.
The master (material nature) gives the big PHD a big boot up the anus.
Still they can't see.
Tick tick tick tick every second goes by and the big thinker misleads "In the future we will know" tick tick tick the knowledge is right there in front of them during each tick.
Still they can't see.
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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:43pm PT
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Lacking a PhD and having cleaned well a litany of toilets, I believe I have the credentials to state conclusively that - tick, tick, tick, tick - in the future we will know that much more about how much more we don't know that much about.
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WBraun
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:45pm PT
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This is their big thinking I believe
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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:46pm PT
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As opposed to the conceit of knowing?
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dirtbag
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:48pm PT
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As opposed to the conceit of knowing?
Good word: "conceit."
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WBraun
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 03:54pm PT
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Yes the original thinker is all knowing.
Free from all material contamination.
Modern thinker with no connection to the original thinker all speculator.
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jstan
climber
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Dec 14, 2009 - 04:13pm PT
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Gobee does not always give attribution for the texts he is publishing. It is still probably John MacArthur’s daily bible reading, which can be purchased in hardcover. These materials are the output of an organization called “Grace to You” and are being produced today.
The following is reproduced from MacArthur’s web site and lists many complaints about all the false teaching nowdays of christian dogma.
Many of us on ST have been complaining about false teachings, heresy, and latter day disciples so we seem to have, sort of, an agreement with Mr. MacArthur.
For your edification.
Start quote:
Monday, December 14, 2009
Blog Home
Unholy Trinity
Friday, December 11, 2009
John MacArthur
I don't watch much television, and when I do I generally avoid the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN). For many years TBN has been dominated by faith-healers, full-time fund-raisers, and self-proclaimed prophets spewing heresy. I wrote about the false gospel they proclaim and the phony miracles they pretend to do almost two decades ago in Charismatic Chaos (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992. See especially chapter 12). I had my fill of charismatic televangelism while researching that book, and I can hardly bear to watch it any more.
Recently, however, while recovering from knee-replacement surgery, I decided to sample some of the current fare on TBN. From a therapeutic point of view it seemed a good choice: something more excruciating than the pain in my leg might distract me from the physical suffering of post-surgical trauma. And I suppose on that basis the strategy was effective.
But it left me outraged and frustrated—and eager to challenge the misperceptions in the minds of millions of unbelievers who see these false teachers masquerading as ministers of Christ on TBN.
I'm outraged at the brazen way so many false teachers twist the message of Scripture in Jesus' name. And I'm frustrated because I'm certain that if these charlatans were not receiving a large proportion of their financial support from sincere believers (and silent acquiescence from Christian leaders who surely know better), they would have no platform for their shenanigans. They would soon lose their core constituency and fade from the scene.
Instead, religious quacks are actually multiplying at a frightening pace. One thing I discovered to my immense displeasure is that TBN is by no means the only religious network broadcasting poisonous false doctrine around the clock. The channel lineup I receive includes at least seven other channels whose schedules are filled with false teachers and charlatans. There's The Church Channel, Daystar, GodTV, World Harvest Television (LeSEA), Total Christian Television, and several others. Some of them feature blocs of family television programing and a few fairly sound teachers who provide moments of escape from the prosperity preachers. But all of them give prominence to enormous amounts of heresy and religious claptrap—enough to make them positively dangerous. And TBN is singularly responsible for kicking that door open so wide.
The continued growth and influence of TBN is baffling for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the thick aura of lust, greed, and other kinds of moral impropriety that surrounds the whole enterprise. A long string of scandals involving notable charismatic televangelists between 1988 and 1992 should have been sufficient reason for even the most credulous viewers to scrutinize the entire industry with skepticism. First came the international spectacle of Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker's moral, marital, and financial collapse. That was followed closely by the revelation of Jimmy Swaggart's repeated dalliances with prostitutes. Shortly afterward, an episode of ABC's Primetime Live exposed clear examples of deliberate fraud on the part of three more leading charismatic televangelists. Those incidents were punctuated by a score of lesser scandals over several years' time. It is clear (or should be)—based on empirical evidence alone—that preachers promising miracles in exchange for money are not to be trusted. And for anyone who simply bothers to compare Jesus' teaching with the health-and-wealth message, it is clear that the message that currently dominates religious television is "a different gospel; which is really not another" (Galatians 1:6-7), but a damnable lie.
TBN is by far the leading perpetrator of that lie worldwide. Virtually all the network's main celebrities tell listeners that God will give them healing, wealth, and other material blessings in return for their money. On program after program people are urged to "plant a seed" by sending "the largest bill you have or the biggest check you can write" with the promise that God will miraculously make them rich in return. That same message dominates all of TBN's major fundraising drives. It's known as the "seed faith" plan, so-called by Oral Roberts, who set the pattern for most of the charismatic televangelists who have followed the trail he blazed. Paul Crouch, founder, chairman, and commander-in-chief of TBN, is one of the doctrine's staunchest defenders.
The only people who actually get rich by this scheme, of course, are the televangelists. Their people who send money get little in return but phony promises—and as a result, many of them turn away from the truth completely.
If the scheme seems reminiscent of Tetzel, that's because it is precisely the same doctrine. (Tetzel was a medieval monk whose high-pressure selling of indulgences—phony promises of forgiveness—outraged Martin Luther and touched off the Protestant Reformation.)
Like Tetzel, TBN preys on the poor and plies them with false promises. Yet what is happening daily on TBN is many times worse than the abuses that Luther decried because it is more widespread and more flagrant. The medium is more high-tech and the amounts bilked out of viewers' pockets are astronomically higher. (By most estimates, TBN is worth more than a billion dollars and rakes in $200 million annually. Those are direct contributions to the network, not counting millions more in donations sent directly to TBN broadcasters.) Like Tetzel on steroids, the Crouches and virtually all the key broadcasters on TBN live in garish opulence, while constantly begging their needy viewers for more money. Elderly, poor, and working-class viewers constitute TBN's primary demographic. And TBN's fundraisers all know that. The most desperate people—"unemployed," "even though I'm in between jobs," "trying to make it; trying to survive," "broke"—are baited with false promises to give what they do not even have. Jan Crouch addresses viewers as "you little people," and suggests that they send their grocery money to TBN "to assure God's blessing."
Thus TBN devours the poor while making the charlatans rich. God cursed false prophets in the Old Testament for that very thing (Jeremiah 6:13-15). It's also one of the main reasons the Pharisees incurred Jesus' condemnation (Luke 20:46-47). It's hard to think of any sin more evil. It not only hurts people materially; it deludes them with groundless hope, deceives them with a false gospel, and thereby places their souls in eternal peril. And yet those who do it pretend they are doing the work of God.
That's not all. Almost no false prophecy, erroneous doctrine, rank superstition, or silly claim is too outlandish to receive airtime on TBN. Jan Crouch tearfully gives a fanciful account of how her pet chicken was miraculously raised from the dead. Benny Hinn trumps that claim with a bizarre prophecy that if TBN viewers will put their dead loved ones' caskets in front of television set and touch the dead person's hand to the screen, people will "be raised from the dead . . . by the thousands."
Ironically, one doesn't even need to be an orthodox Trinitarian in order to broadcast on the Trinity network. Bishop T. D. Jakes, well known for his rejection of the Nicene creed in favor of oneness Pentecostalism, is a staple on TBN. Benny Hinn has repeatedly attempted to revise the doctrine of the Trinity in novel ways, notoriously teaching at one point that there are nine persons in the godhead.
And yet evangelical church leaders typically show a kind of benign tolerance toward the whole enterprise. Most would never endorse it, of course. They may joke about the gaudiness of the big hair and tawdry set decorations on TBN. Ask them, and they will most likely acknowledge that the prosperity gospel is no gospel at all. Press the issue, and you will probably get them to admit that it is a dangerous form of false doctrine, totally unbiblical, and essentially anti-Christian.
Why, then, is there no large-scale effort among Bible-believing evangelicals to expose, denounce, refute, and silence these false teachers? After all, that is what Scripture commands church leaders to do when we encounter purveyors of soul-destroying substitutes for the true gospel:
The overseer must be above reproach as God's steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict. For there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for the sake of sordid gain (Titus 1:7-11).
Those who remain silent in the face of such grotesque lies may in fact be partly responsible for turning people away from the truth. Consider the testimony of William Lobdell, religion reporter for the Los Angeles Times, who once considered himself a devout evangelical Christian, but after doing a series of investigative reports on the moral and doctrinal cesspool at TBN; then "finding that his investigative stories about faith healer Benny Hinn and televangelists Jan and Paul Crouch appear to make no difference on the reach of these ministries or the lives of their followers, he [gave] up on the beat and on religion generally."
All those who truly love Christ and care about the truth have a solemn duty to defend the truth by exposing and opposing these lies that masquerade as truth. If we fail in that duty because of indifference, apathy, or a craving for the approval of men, we are no less guilty than those who actively spread the lies.
Share | Comments (62)
Posted by Bernie Loos | Friday, December 11, 2009 1:05 PM
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Mr. MacArthur,
Thank you for standing in the gap and shining the light of Truth on these heretics. I am deputy sheriff and police chaplain and working in the the law enforcement realm and these are the types of false teachers that are always brought up and mocked by the lost officers. It is sad, these lost officers realize that these individuals for what they are. However those who call themselves "Christians" or have been told they are "Christians" by some "church" leader or whose "salvation" was verified by a denomination's standard or man's doctrine, not the Holy Spirit, they are deceived and buy into these snake oil salesmen. But there in is the problem, they don't have the Holy Spirit of God and without the Holy Spirit to steer them into all Truth they cannot try and test the false spirits that appear as angels of light.
God's speed in your recovery and "Preach the Word". Thank you!
Posted by Terry Stroot | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 2:14 PM
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Pastor MacArthur
Thank You for allowing God and our Lord speak through you for only the Holy Spirit speaks the truth on this matter. Anyone who reads the Word can agree with you on these hucksters.
The Lord warns us all in 2 Corinthians 2:17
"Only those who, like ourselves, are men of integrity, sent by God, speaking with Christ's power, with God's eye upon us. We are not like those hucksters---and there are many of them----who’s idea in getting out the Gospel is to make a good living out of it."
God is giving us the responsibility to be salt to the world in these matters as His Word plainly states to the ears who here. To allow these false teachers to teach others wrongly is sin. God gave us the truth to give to those who can't see or hear Him by His Word because they don't have the Holy Spirit by being born again. We as Disciples of Christ must try to reach out, without fear, to all those who are blind to the real Truth.
We must all answer to God for what He has given us.
May you John continue to bless our God and Lord Jesus Christ and you are always in my prayers to be a servant to the Lord,
Terry
May God give you a speedy recovery on your knee as I am a floor layer and am having surgery Dec 16 so I will be thinking of you and know God will give me strength also.
We were in CA at your church, your first time back to preach after surgery
You always inspire us to study more and know the Truth
Posted by Ryan Rosene | Friday, December 11, 2009 2:42 PM
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Dear Dr. MacArthur,
Thank you for your stance for the truth and your willingness to stand-up to falsehoods in the name of Jesus Christ. Many times I see the effects of TBN and the other stations' message on my family and friends and I get frustrated by it and want to give up. But then you speak the truth and empower me to stand up and make my realize that I am not alone.
A lot of bible teachers may grab my attention but the message is not felt until I hear a message from you, R.C. Sproul, and John Piper. I pray that I may be half the men you guys are in Christ and stand for the truth no metter the rise in unpopularity.
Thanks for the inspiration. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in 2010! May God continue to bless the faithfullness of Grace to You and your other minitries!
In His Grace,
Ryan Rosene
Posted by Paterson Thomas | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 2:58 PM
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I struggled with the error of this doctrine for two years. As a baby christian, I supported those ministries until I obtain a full understanding of the sovereignty of God. I felt like a total fool for beliveving such lies.I was so hurt and disappointed in myself that I stopped giving to the church for the last two years. I thank you Mr. McArthur for giving me a clear understanding through scripture. I've asked the Lord to forgive me and to give the spirit of discernment through the knowledge of his word. I am at full peace with myself and I promise that I will only support the ministries that are sensitive to right representation of the gospel and scriptures. I wish you well Mr. McArthur and I pray that the Lord blesses you with many more years on the pulpit.
11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.
EPHESIANS 4:
9 Notice that it says “he ascended.” This clearly means that Christ also descended to our lowly world.[c] 10 And the same one who descended is the one who ascended higher than all the heavens, so that he might fill the entire universe with himself.
11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.
14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.
Posted by Kenneth Haraughty | Friday, December 11, 2009 3:04 PM
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Dr. MacArthur,
It is a sad time we live in when people are willingly deceived. I know many so called "Christians" who are taken in by these false teachers on TBN. We seem to be in a time where people are more interested in hearing what makes them feel good instead of the truth of the Bible. These TV phonies pick and choose parts of the Bible to bend it to their liking. I am discusted by this blatent hypocracy. I am glad there are teachers such as you who are willing to stand in the truth and expose the lies of the enemy. I remember reading your sermons on the book of Jude which is an excelent teaching on how to spot these false teachers.
I hope you recover well, and thank you again for your courage.
Ken Haraughty
Posted by William Simpson | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 3:42 PM
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Mr. MacArthur,
This is one of the main issues I have written about in a book that will be released early 2010. I was unable to find representation for 3 years within the Christian publishing industry because of the content of my message, but finally, Yorkshire Publishing offered contract. I attended a couple of churches in Virginia and had the opportunity to meet many of the well known televangelists of today. Keneth Copeland, Kenneth Hagin Sr, and junior, Charles Capps, Jesse Duplantis, Rodney Howard Brown, Mark Charona, T.D Jakes, Jerry Savelle, Leroy Thompson, just to name a few, and many more. For years I thought these men were God's generals, but by God's grace, I have come to realize just how misleading these men are and the damage being done to so many lives. I can only hope my book gives me the platform to educate the spiritually dumb, who think what these charlatans proclaim is the gospel, with the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thank you for your stand and for your unwavering commitment to proclaim the truth. You are not alone.
William Simpson
Posted by Mark Vogel | Friday, December 11, 2009 4:41 PM
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Would like you to knopw that I came out of this movement through your first book or I should say the tape series on the charismatics. a friend of mine had them and gave them to me to listen to and just transformed my life in regards to God's truth. Unfortunatley my friend went head first into the movement and believes lies that I once believe. This movenment of satan is dangerous and bl;asphemous to the truth and of God's true grace in Christ jesus
Posted by Arthur Horne | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 4:57 PM
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Dear Pastor MacArthur,
I thank are heavenly Father for the clear no-nonsense voice that He has given us through his Word and those like you who still have the spiritual boldness to proclaim the truth without apology. It gives me great joy to be a Grace Partner. Love your books, share them with many.
Love in Christ Jesus our Wonderful Savior, Art
Posted by Brent McFarland | Friday, December 11, 2009 5:11 PM
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John,
Thanks for the time you have spent with me (EI '06) and the direction that you have given. I stand with you and with our Lord as a ready and willing soldier in this war against the truth.
Brent.
Posted by Gregory Reed | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 6:12 PM
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Dear Brother (in the faith) MacArthur,
Thank you, with all my heart, for your exposition of the Bible. Thank you for clearly and completely explaining what the Bible says without compromise. It is because of your teaching that I can drink deeply from God's Word. May God continue to bless you, your family, and the ministry with which God has entrusted you.
Gratefully yours in Christ Jesus,
Kathryn Reed
Posted by Ann Dalon | Friday, December 11, 2009 6:16 PM
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Dear Pastor John, Thank you for being valiant for truth. I was once deceived and undiscerning, I came out of catholicism only to land in a cult, then into charismatic /pentecostal teachings. But thanks to your sound bible teachings I saw the light. I know you will keep preaching the pure gospel and you can be trusted. I pray the Lord send more like you to glorify Him. I pray daily for you and your ministry. I LOVE your Study Bible and read it through last year and reread the NT three times. I will read and study it through again this coming year. I am more hungry for Gods Word than ever before. I love your books and listen to the sermon on Luke 16:19-31 The rich man and Lazarus many times (No one I've ever heard expounds on it as well as you have! ). God bless you exceeedingly. thank you for all you do for His glory! Agape, Ann
Posted by Jay Stoms | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 8:16 PM
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I lecture in theology at the African Bible College in Lilongwe, Malawi. I don’t watch much TV either but I have been grieved on more than one occasion when I have caught students glued to the tube in our student center watching Benny Hinn. Although we spend our time teaching what our schools motto calls ‘the treasures of God’s truth’ (and I do so from a Reformed perspective) the worldwide influence of the so called ‘health and wealth’ gospel is astonishing. Africans, who typically lack what we Americans usually take for granted (nutrition, education, healthcare), are typically spiritually hungry. Unfortunately what they are all too often being fed is a steady diet of ‘health and wealth’ via TBN and others. Christianity is often intermingled with African traditional religion so that ‘faith’ becomes the magic that wards off the evil unseen spiritual forces and twists the arm on the otherwise reluctant God in Jesus’ name. These teachings have even infiltrated the main line Protestant Churches. I brought a guest speaker to a local Presbyterian Church recently were an elder in his pastoral prayer proceeded to bind a host of spirits including the ‘spirit of headaches’. Unfortunately for my three year old daughter, he neglected to bind the ‘spirit of chicken pox’ who attacked my little princess later that same day and persisted for two weeks. We continue to ‘press on’...it would be great if more influential Bible teachers would oppose this ‘other gospel’ more openly and aggressively.
Zikomo (thanks)
Jay Stoms
Say ‘hi’ to Brian and Anita Biedebach if you see him.
Posted by Bob Woods | Friday, December 11, 2009 9:05 PM
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Dear Pastor John,
GOD BLESS your intestinal fortitude in today's evil & hostile world to stand tall, "...being strong in the LORD and in the strength of HIS might." EPH 6:10
You show us, your flock, time and again, how to accurately "Put on the full armor of GOD, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." EPH 6:11
You have taken me from a newborn babe in CHRIST JESUS to the point of not desiring, but absolutely NEEDING & REQUIRING for my daily sustenance, "...solid food (the meat)...for the mature, who because of practice have theirs senses trained to discern good and evil." HEB 5:14
I truly thank our precious LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST for allowing our paths to cross at Grace Church back on April, 2006, when I had the wonderful & humbling privilege to shake your hand and meet you this side of heaven before we are Raptured!
GOD has truly indwelled HIS HOLY SPIRIT in you for the past 50+ years preaching the GOSPEL and being true to HIS WORD, carrying out HIS Great Commission of "making disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the FATHER and the SON and the HOLY SPIRIT." MATT 28:19
We have both had to undergo surgery since we met back in April of 2006; for you, knee surgery, and myself, back surgery (Diskectomy) & another emergency exploratory Laporotomy just 15 days after the major back surgery (I felt like a hamburger patty getting flipped over)! :o)
Seriously, though, I want to wish you GOD SPEED on your Knee Surgery recovery. Also I want to wish you & your family a very blessed Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. And again, thanks so much for being such an outstanding witness and testimony for our LORD JESUS and not budging an inch in your BIBLE Expository Teaching and Preaching @ Grace Church for over 40 years now and being so genuine, faithful, caring, charitable giving to your GRACE to YOU Ministries!!
Your brother in CHRIST JESUS,
Bob Woods
San Tan Valley, AZ
JOHN 14:6
Posted by Toureno Taylor | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 9:10 PM
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I am so happy that someone with voice like John MacArthur has spoken up and out about a matter which has infuriated me for so long. It seems as if people who are in a position of authority and prominence within the church community have fail to speak up about the bad teaching which has been taking place for long on TBN. What I have seen over past few years, from watching TBN until it began to sicken my stomach is that Pastor used TBN as the platform for tithing. From this you hear following "sow a seed, money that is",which is another way of getting money out of people. Pastors who support this station, really eats it up well, and you see this practice in church being perpetuated. If this is not enough, they will make outlandish statements, about how God is going to bless you. God will bless us, but you can't buy a blessing.
Where is the SALVATION in this programming. All you here is people being manipulated with their words, and twisted doctrine. The latest buzz word is the "Word of knowledge"which also make them sound like they have a right to say any and everything other than what is in Bible. (Now that is Bold). I often wonder, how bold and brazen can you be.
As a Christian, a Father, a Husband, a Minister, a Black man, and someone who would be considered fairly well educated, you are not welcome unless you also parrot what is being spewed out from TBN. My last thought about this matter, is that within the many African American communities the teaching on TBN is dominant. I believe many are sincerely following this teaching, but they believe what they are hearing is true. My burden is many of these so called christian leaders are taking advantage of people who are giving their all to these charlatan.
Keep Preaching and Writing John MacArthur
Posted by Ru Forreal | Friday, December 11, 2009 10:31 PM
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So tell me John MacArthur, are you really any different than those on TBN? I visited your website and was warmly greeted by your shopping cart as I signed up and noticed that two of your featured resources were looking for money, while the other ones were gently persuading me that you are a reputable charity. This website is full of products you are $elling and I see that almost every page has a donation link looking for money. I admit that you are not up to the antics like those on TBN, but you seem to be busy about the bu$ine$$ of the go$pel. If you are going to point out the flaws in others shouldn't you have your own house in order first? You seem to have totally forgotten the words of Jesus. Did Jesus not say that "...freely ye have received, freely give." Matt 10:8. Did God charge you? I suspect that like others who are in the business of the gospel you will find an alternative meaning for this passage to justify your cozy lifestyle from your profitable business. Now if you would like to see real Christianity in action, go visit your local Salvation Army. Those folks are genuine. As for all your expensive materials, you can keep them. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.
It was a good blog on TBN, by the way, but your version of commericalized Christianity on this website spoiled the message for me.
Posted by Tory Hooks | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 10:54 PM
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Posted by Tory Hooks | Friday, December 11, 2009 11:02 PM
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Posted by Tory Hooks | Friday, December 11, 2009 at 11:03 PM
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Mr. John MacArthur
Im from Tulsa Ok. where there is a building that is supposed to represent a church on every corner, but the word of Jesus Christ, is not being preached. I have warned and warned and warned people about this stuff even my so-called close bretheren, and its almost as if im on an isalnd by myself. This stuff is killing people everyday in my town. Every picture you have posted are talked about more than Jesus Christ. Bishop so and so said this and pastor this, it makes me sick to my stomach and it makes me cry at the same time. Right now i go to a church where Dr. Myles Munroe is the big name and the heresy teaching we have about the kingdom is so false that an unbeliever would know its false. Tithing is a big compulsion mechanism also here in Tulsa, ok. Where you are cursed if you dont tithe, I have been free from that stuff, ever since studying what it really is a "Jewish Tax". When you broke it down for me in an sermon you had i was blessed and free. I get looked at wrong at times because of me only being saved since May 2005. I'm a puritan at heart, and I'm black "WOW a black puritan, but the love of God has changed my life and with people like you that will stand for Christ and His word and a community of believers on this blog it encourages me to continue to preach a the word of God in season and out of season. John MacArthur, thank you so much for being that guy that will Go hard IV Christ @ all times.
Posted by Christine Ravert | Saturday, December 12, 2009 2:38 AM
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Pastor John,
Thank you for your committment to the TRUTH of God! Not only is TBN a wasteland of false doctrine, so are most churches, at least in So. CA. Your 40 years + of unleashing God's Word, one verse at a time, has provided real spiritual nourishment for those of us with a hunger to know God as He presents Himself in holy scripture. We have deep gratitude for your shepherding. May God bless your teaching for many years to come....or until He comes. I say you should teach through the whole OT after you finish the book of Mark.
Also, preach longer........1 hour isn't enough!!! You said you preached in Europe an hour and a half. We want that too.
Thanks for your faithful dedication to truth.
Posted by Rev. Steven W. Banas | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 7:19 AM
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Dr. MacArthur,
Thank you for proclaiming the Truth!
Your faithfulness and dedication to God's Word is so needed in today's culture.
As a pastor myself over the years we have helped several who were greatly wounded from the hyper-faith, prosperity gospel. God led them to our church to minister to these couples who were so deceived by the lies of the charismatic teachings.
The first time we met at a evangelism conference many years ago, I was beginning my pastoral ministry, and you graciously signed my book with 2 Corinthians 4:5 "For we do not preach ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as bond-servants for Jesus' sake." (NASB) Anything different, anything more or less, is another gospel! ... and let him be accursed. (Gal. 1:8) God will judge these false teachers.
Again, God bless you, Dr. MacArthur. Thank you for your faithfulness to the Truth of God's Word, for we are sanctified by His Holy Spirit and the Truth!... for the Word is Truth! (John 17:17)
Posted by Jackie Starling | Saturday, December 12, 2009 7:21 AM
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Dear Pastor (General) MacArthur~
I was a follower of the TBN movement for 20 years and a believer of all their false teaching. I was young, stupid and deceived by the lies. I believed with all my heart what they preached and supported them financially for most of those years. But, what they promised never came to pass. I gave a great amount of money to these so called ministries and never received anything in return except their lies.
12 years ago I met my current husband who used to attend Grace Church before moving to Oregon and he shared with me all your biblical teachings. My husband has hundreds of your tapes and CD's from the past 30 years. The Truth you teach has set me free. Your teaching is so clear and easy to follow and understand.
Thank you so much for taking a stand for the Truth. Keep up God's good work. We are in this war together for the Truth.
We are fellow soldiers in the battle for the Truth. Phil and Jackie Starling
Posted by Tim Terry | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 7:36 AM
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ru forreal
the salvation army recently compromised their heritage by embracing all "faiths" and other religions for the sake of ...add'l income streams maybe ??? I do not know their motive BUT I do know when the Gospel has been modified and the end results are always tragic for us sinners. Maybe GTY needs to look at itself, maybe make a change or two so as not to provoke people like you or send a message they never intend to convey. Maybe, however, we need to look at the whole body of GTY ministry and see it w/ understanding and not such a critical eye. Suggestions may be considered more quickly than harsh criticisms, maybe. I have followed GTY for nearly 30 years and it is solid, sensitive, and sold out to JESUS. Sorry the offer of good Bible helps for charge offended you. I do know that GTY helps, gives away, supports those unable to pay ...it is ministry you know. GODS grace to you today and GOD bless GTY and Dr MacArthur for biblical truth uncompromised. One Q, are you for real? I hope so in JESUS alone. God bless.
Posted by Daniel Flaherty | Saturday, December 12, 2009 8:09 AM
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John and GTY staff -
In response to RU Forreal I have been a listener to GTY since 1981 and it has been a wonderful tool that God has blessed me with to learn and grow in God's Word. Never have I been pressured or guilted into sending money. In fact for the past couple of years I have been able to listen to all of John's messages - from the oldies of 40 years ago - to the sermons of just a couple weeks ago - for FREE! Don't tell me that John and his staff are in it for the money. Thank you John and GTY staff - you have made a difference in my life that is incaluable. John - you have been a great role model in the faith for me and I know for my Pastor. If I don't have the opportunity to meet you in this life - I'll look you up in heaven. Thank you again! Maranatha!
Posted by Marsha VanderSpek | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 9:05 AM
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Dear John,
Thank you for being faithful to God's calling on your life. I am a LONG time listener to GTY and am a partner. I was at Hume Lake Christian camp in the late 60's and you were the speaker for the week. So I'm so thankful to follow your lead in the scriptures via radio and GTY and have passed on GTY's link to many. John, it's been a long time coming for those on TBN to be exposed. But we've been forewarned by our Lord & Saviour that false teachers will come and have always been. Thank you for being and remaining on the 'straight and narrow' path. Soon and very soon we are going to see the King. It's a been such a blessing to know and trust that you continue to reveal the truth of God from the scriptures. Bless you & all at GTY...
Posted by Rodrigo Avila | Saturday, December 12, 2009 10:02 AM
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Thank you Pastor MacArthur for your sound doctrine and your boldness in exposing these charlatans.
Sometimes I feel that I am stealing from your ministry because you had sent me cd's and books for free. Besides all the videos and audio messages that you provide free of charge in this web page.
I don't even know you personally but I consider you my pastor and mentor.
God bless you
Posted by Bret Bellamy | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 10:27 AM
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Dear Sir, I am encouraged by the sound defense of God's Word that you have consistantly declared over the course of your service to our Savior. You are an inspiration to myself that God still has men who are unashamed of the True Gospel of Christ. Thank you for your resources that are available through your website. These tools are invalueable to the preachers of our day who desire to stand in the gap preserving Biblical Authority!! I stand firmly in support of exposing error and false truth that is ravaging our culture today, by lovingly preaching the truth with courage and firmness........Keep on Keeping on!!!
Posted by Joseph Ortego | Saturday, December 12, 2009 12:06 PM
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Great articles. John MacArthur has always been bold in Christ to speak the truth. To ru forreal who I don't think is for real, I have been listening to Grace To You on radio and now on the internet for the past few years. Any one who listens or reads on a more then sporadic basis would know that there is a universe of difference in this ministry and most others, especially TBN and the like. They do indeed supply thousands of cd's, dvd,s and books, not to mention all the free resources that are available for downloading from the website, for countless numbers of spiritually hungry believers around the world. I count it a privilege to support this ministry. They are a clear voice in a dark world, expounding the scriptures which are able to make us wise unto eternal life.
Posted by Gary Orlich | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 1:34 PM
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John, I wish you would write more on this subject & name names I watched the 700 club a few times & they cure headaches , backaches, and all kinds of phoney baloney plus if your down & out make a pledge and I guess you will get rich like the people they showcase on the show. I have only been saved 5 years, but Pat Robertson & the 700 club seem like a fraud to me. Am I the only christian who feels this way ?
Posted by Laneisa Jackson | Saturday, December 12, 2009 3:13 PM
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For years now I have had limited fellowship with my brother and my sister because of their membership at The Potter's House with TD Jakes. I always wondered why my sister and I had no more than a superficial fellowhsip since she has professed to be a Christian longer than I. When I heard John teach on discernment I understood why. We do not serve the same Christ. When I confront my family with questions about why they support this nonsense I am poo pooed.
In my painful personal eperience, the truth of the scripture that says "they are drawn away by their own lusts" is very accurate. The false preachers are in big trouble but so are those who prefer the darkness just in case they too can get rich.
Posted by Laneisa Jackson | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 3:25 PM
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For years now I have had limited fellowship with my brother and my sister because of their membership at The Potter's House with TD Jakes. I always wondered why my sister and I had no more than a superficial fellowhsip since she has professed to be a Christian longer than I. When I heard John teach on discernment I understood why. We do not serve the same Christ. When I confront my family with questions about why they support this nonsense I am poo pooed.
In my painful personal eperience, the truth of the scripture that says "they are drawn away by their own lusts" is very accurate. The false preachers are in big trouble but so are those who prefer the darkness just in case they too can get rich.
Posted by Michael Maynard | Saturday, December 12, 2009 3:37 PM
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I have been a Christian for about 13 years now. I can remember when I first became a Christian thinking how bizarre these people on TBN were. Since this time, I have grown in my love, faith, and commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. The ministry of Grace To You has been invaluable to my spiritual growth. I support this ministry monthly not out of obligation but because I know that the real message of the Gospel changes hearts and lives. There are very few ministries that I give to. This is because I want to know that the money that I give will be used by God in a real way to help men and women grow spiritually. I stand behind Grace to You 100% with my monthly giving, my prayers, and my thankfulness for being a good steward of the gifts they are given. I have no problem with GTY charging, if they choose, for materials that help people grown spiritually. I am pretty certain that people like "R U FOR REAL," who didn't even have the courtesy to leave a real name, but one made up, expect a paycheck for the work that they do to provide for their families. The ministry of GTY provides "FREE Downloadable" sermons (over 3000) that date back 40 years. I will stand behind a ministry like this!! They are truly one of the few who deserve it. Thank you John for all that you do. I pray for God's continued blessing upon you and the ministry of Grace to You. Thank you for solid, unapologetic, truthful, bible teaching of God's word.
Posted by Martha Tyler | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 3:49 PM
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I would really like to know if Dr. MacArthur would endure having the other knee operated on, as opposed to sitting and listening to more of these false charlatans sermons. I think he would prefer to have surgery.
I am so glad so many people are encouraged by his close teachings to God's precious word. May our glorious Father in heaven raise up more men like him.
Posted by Elizabeth Anthony | Saturday, December 12, 2009 4:56 PM
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For me, TBN is only good for watching Biblical movies and Charles Stanley. I hope there is nothing wrong with Charles...
Posted by Juan Lopez Iii | Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 7:58 PM
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Pastor John, it is always refreshing and encouraging to hear you speak about topics such as these. Since 1982, I have had the privilege and honor to listen to you on just about every topic there is under the sun. I have been a soldier all my life. I was a soldier on the streets of Oakland. I have been a soldier for the United States Army. And I have been a soldier for Christ since 1982. I too get frustrated with these so-called men of God, that it makes me want to go out on the streets and round them up. But I do know that wouldn't be the way our Lord would want it...would He..?? But I don't mind going into battle for my Lord Jesus...call me if you need a soldier...thank you..!!
Posted by Lincoln Jacquett | Sunday, December 13, 2009 4:07 AM
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Pastor Macarthur, Thank you for standing up for truth and righteousness, I give God thanks for you and others like Allister Begg,R.C Sproul David, Jerimiah and others who are standing up for the Word of God , We here in Canada as been enlightend by the sound teaching of the Word of God through your ministry we have recently left the charismatic movement after spending my entire life in it, we are now in a sound bible believing church ............
Posted by Lincoln Jacquett | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 4:07 AM
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Pastor Macarthur, Thank you for standing up for truth and righteousness, I give God thanks for you and others like Allister Begg,R.C Sproul David, Jerimiah and others who are standing up for the Word of God , We here in Canada as been enlightend by the sound teaching of the Word of God through your ministry we have recently left the charismatic movement after spending my entire life in it, we are now in a sound bible believing church ............
Posted by Melody Gellecanao | Sunday, December 13, 2009 5:43 AM
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That is why we constantly include you in our prayers, Pastor John MacArthur. You're the best preacher/teacher for me in such a way that you do what you preach & teach. You are right, Christ did not confront the government of Rome but the so-called 'men of God' of His time - Pharisees and Scribes. And so, like our Lord Jesus Christ, you are more concern on exposing lies such as the TBN's. Preach on, Pastor John; preach on!!
Posted by Rusty Smitheman | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 6:36 AM
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Thanks to my LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST for your ministry. GOD has given us his WORD and men like you to help us discern the TRUTH.
Posted by Adolfo Picado | Sunday, December 13, 2009 6:52 AM
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Posted by Adolfo Picado | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 7:05 AM
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Dear Pastor Macarthur,
My family and I are so richly blessed to have you as our pastor in Grace. My wife and I were believers in these bunch of charlatans at one point in our life. Mostly, we were very fond of Greg Osteen and Rod Parsley. It was not until we came to Grace that we see the pack of lies and heresies that TBN is spewing out and hurting most of us, the poor people.
Thank you pastor for being so courageous and bold against all these people. It's easy for many pastors to go with "the Prosperity Gospel", especially in this economy: however, I'm proud to say that I belong to a church where the TRUTH is taught and where people are not "pampered" into believing that being a christian means to "have it all" as if God was our vending machine and we could buy a miracle.
God bless you so much for teaching the Word of God, the way it was meant to be taught. You are a true inspiration for all of us and the pride of God, our father...
Posted by Melanie Owen | Sunday, December 13, 2009 7:34 AM
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Dear Mr. Macarthur:
Thank you for speaking against these false prophets and teachers. You are one of the few men who have the courage to speak the truth. Please continue what you are doing and preaching. It is so crucial, especially in these dark days in the Church to shed light to others. I believe that the Church has entered God's judgment because of her unfaithfulness and immorality. There will be purging to come. I pray many will come to see the truth. God bless you and your family. Merry Christmas!
Posted by Greg Tegman | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 8:13 AM
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Posted by Chip Boughner | Sunday, December 13, 2009 9:00 AM
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Dr. MacArthur,
While I disagree with the Calvanist doctrine you often promote, I do especially appreciate this blog and exposing these false techers who are, "...making merchandise..." (2Pet2:3) of so many sincere but infant believer's and those who may never, "...come into the knowledge of the truth." (2Tim2:4) due to the false gospel promoted by these heretics. I have found sisters and brothers in the congregation I attend who give creedance to these charlatins - though the church I attend is a bible based, Christ center, expository teaching fellowship, there just appears to always be some who are looking to "experience" God in some subjective way instead of just taking HIM at HIS Word. Certainly we are in the time of Laodicea and for many Jesus stands at the door and knocks, because He is outside the body of some who, "...have a knowledge of God but do not glorify Him as God."(Rom1:21). Thank you for this message, please do not grow weary of standing against these false teachers.
Posted by John Anderson | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 1:50 PM
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First a note to the note posted by Ru Forreal . It would certainly be desirable for all people to find the truth before stating comments like these. In fact Dr McArthur’s Ministry is one of the best and contrary to your opinions is not looking for handouts like many other ministries. If you care to take a bit of time to find the truth, here are some links that provide almost endless resources that are free... all from John's Ministries. I don’t know of any other ministry that does this and preaches the biblical truths. I would think that if you listened to even 10% of these you would have a very different mindset.
https://www.tms.edu/Media.aspx
https://www.tms.edu/Media.aspx
https://www.shepherdsfellowship.org/Resources.aspx
http://www.gty.org/Resources/
Second, be realistic. All of these resources are put together and made available “free”… at a price. Any organization has overhead costs that can’t be avoided. After looking at these free resources you would do well by donating to maintain and extend these ministries.
Third, we live in a small community south of Mt. Rainier in Washington State. We have no direct [removed word]ion to FTY. These resources are our main source of learning God’s Word. Truth is hard to find in most of the main-line denominations. Dr. John MacArthur is a voice of truth is a culture that chooses to ignore truth. Look around a bit and compare the “normal” life style in this nation to a biblical life-style that John promotes.
And Fourth, this articles is “spot on.”
Posted by Samuel Beera | Sunday, December 13, 2009 3:45 PM
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Dear Pastor John,
I pray that you have a speedy recovery from the surgery. I thank God, our wonderful Almighty, for your passion and zeal in preaching the Word of God. You have been and continue to be a major influence on my understanding the Bible, through the Holy Spirit.
I have always admired your boldness through Christ in standing for the truth. I agree with your blog about the "health and wealth doctrine" of many televangelists. They are going to stand before the Just Lord in judgement.
God bless and prosper your ministry which makes all your message free. I understand that your ministry needs finances to meet the costs it incurs.
May the peace and joy of our coming Christ be upon you, your family and your ministry.
Posted by David Montague | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 6:43 PM
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Pastor MacArthur,
I too am a Police Officer and President of our local chapter of the FCPO (Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers). I can relate to Bro. Loos on the facts that many Police Officers develop a bias towards Christians due to the negative views they witness that contradict sound doctrine. I also want to thank you for your stance for the Gospel. Collectively and prayerfully we can make a difference for the true doctrine of the Bible! I have only been following your ministry for about six months now, but, wow, what a blessing it has been! During this time my faith has grown and my knowledge of the Bible has exploded! I as well will be praying for your recovery from surgery.
God bless,
David Montague
Posted by Johan Schmidt | Sunday, December 13, 2009 10:08 PM
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John,
Thank you for being faithful and true to God's Word. Thank you for being humble and realising that you are just a 'clay pot' carrying the message and not accepting all this thankful praise from people as 'your' thanks.
All we can be is obedient to God, humble and thankful for His grace.
God bless
Johan
Posted by Greg Tegman | Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 11:11 PM
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Posted by Greg Tegman | Sunday, December 13, 2009 11:15 PM
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To Elizabeth Anthony, In regard to Charles Stanley, There has been some debate about a few things he teaches. Unless he has since changed views on the topics of repentance and lordship in regard to salvation, there are significant differences between himself and MacArthur. The last thing I wish to do is speak untruth. I will repeat that further down. Here is what I pick up from Stanley; We are to repent of who He (Jesus) is because repentance of sin is a work. And works cannot be part of the initial process of becoming a Christian. Similarily, making Him Lord of our life comes after as well. Then there is something I have heard him say about carnality in the Christian life. As if one can claim to be a Christian and habitually continue to sin to the fullest the rest of their life because he is secure in Christ. Thus leaving out the fact that this continued on going sin could be evidence that he or she is not a Christian in the first place. I may have heard some of this wrong,but that is what it sounds like to me. Forgive me if I am wrong, and if I am,correct me. I do not wish to present false witness. I actually like Stanley and I think he is sincere,but,at least there is a lack in clarity on these things. Steer me straight if I heard incorrectly please.
Posted by Eric Hohler | Monday, December 14, 2009 at 6:33 AM
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Posted by Eric Hohler | Monday, December 14, 2009 6:41 AM
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I thank God for GTY and I'm thankful that all the sermons are free. Many local churches have failed to sanctify because unfortunately, they too love money (that’s why they preach tithe, they worry more about money than the people they are to shepherd, its probably why they compete against each other to gain “market share” and why they don't make disciples). Many local churches leave baby Christians to raise themselves, the only thing they will teach is tithe in order to afford a bigger building, they market themselves to get more giving units to expand or pay off the big building. It is sad that you have to go online to get solid preaching, but we can’t say we weren’t warned (2 Tim 4:3-4 For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.)
This is why there is a lack of biblical discernment. This is why people are so susceptible to being lead away by false teaching.
Posted by Rey Millares | Monday, December 14, 2009 at 7:33 AM
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Mr. MacArthur thank you so much for defending the truth,andnot keeping silint about all these false teachers, that all they do is mislead people from it.
I thank God every day for leading me and my wife to GTY, which is indeed a blessing in our lifes for its verse by versr bible teaching, and the preaching of the true gospel of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
P.S. Also thank you so much for your latest book " The Jesus you can't ignore , what a great book , which also exposes false teaching and all that sugar coating preaching that is going around today. Sir may the Lord bless you , your family and your ministry. thank you.
Rey and Daisy
Posted by Chris Land | Monday, December 14, 2009 7:45 AM
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Sometimes TBN should be called The Totally Blasphemous Network.
Posted by Barry Koh | Monday, December 14, 2009 at 7:47 AM
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Pastor John,
Some 15 years ago and until recently, I would not touch anything written by you. In fact I hated it. That was when I was deep in the word faith teachings. But now I have discarded the teachings of that different gospel for the one that the apostles taught. While I still cannot comprehend Calvinism, I have nevertheless learnt enormously from your teachings.Thank you so much for making your resources available for free . I regularly forward your articles to many of my friends and informed them about your website.The best way to combat false teachings is to expose them and at the same time disseminate freely God's word as your website is doing. I will pray for the work of your ministry.
Posted by Marie Lambert | Monday, December 14, 2009 8:07 AM
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Pastor John,
Thank you so much for this article. I am a fairly new Christian and from the moment I came to the faith and started looking at those types of teaching on television, I knew deep inside that something was wrong with it. It wasn’t matching what the Bible teaches. By the grace of God I heard you speak on the radio one day and was so touched by your teaching (because it was a breath of fresh air from what I have been hearing) that I started going to your website and listening to your teachings. Your teachings have helped me develop SO MUCH as a Christian and understanding of the Bible. THANK YOU SO MUCH. You are God’s gift to people like me.
Posted by Greg Tegman | Monday, December 14, 2009 at 8:42 AM
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I know that the primary focus of this article is in regard to these charismatic heretics. But,I just want to again, bring up the subject of easy believism in which,in my opinion is just as deadly. Charles Stanley and Charles Ryrie?. Your presentation is flawed. This attachment below is from Grace To You. I will leave you alone now Elizabeth. I see you as a sincere person wanting the truth.
PDF | Email | Print | Share | Download: High Quality | Low Quality An Introduction to Lordship Salvation Code: A114
What follows is from the Grace Community Church Distinctive on LordshipSalvation . It was adapted from John MacArthur's material on the topic of lordship salvation, and serves as an excellent introduction to the subject.
The gospel that Jesus proclaimed was a call to discipleship, a call to follow Him in submissive obedience, not just a plea to make a decision or pray a prayer. Jesus' message liberated people from the [removed word] of their sin while it confronted and condemned hypocrisy. It was an offer of eternal life and forgiveness for repentant sinners, but at the same time it was a rebuke to outwardly religious people whose lives were devoid of true righteousness. It put sinners on notice that they must turn from sin and embrace God's righteousness. Our Lord's words about eternal life were invariably accompanied by warnings to those who might be tempted to take salvation lightly. He taught that the cost of following Him is high, that the way is narrow and few find it. He said many who call him Lord will be forbidden from entering the kingdom of heaven (cf. Matt. 7:13-23).
Present-day evangelicalism, by and large, ignores these warnings. The prevailing view of what constitutes saving faith continues to grow broader and more shallow, while the portrayal of Christ in preaching and witnessing becomes fuzzy. Anyone who claims to be a Christian can find evangelicals willing to accept a profession of faith, whether or not the person's behavior shows any evidence of commitment to Christ. In this way, faith has become merely an intellectual exercise. Instead of calling men and women to surrender to Christ, modern evangelism asks them only to accept some basic facts about Him.
This shallow understanding of salvation and the gospel, known as "easy-believism," stands in stark contrast to what the Bible teaches. To put it simply, the gospel call to faith presupposes that sinners must repent of their sin and yield to Christ's authority. This, in a nutshell, is what is commonly referred to as lordship salvation.
The Distinctives of Lordship Salvation
There are many articles of faith that are fundamental to all evangelical teaching. For example, there is agreement among all believers on the following truths: (1) Christ's death purchased eternal salvation; (2) the saved are justified by grace through faith in Christ alone; (3) sinners cannot earn divine favor; (4) God requires no preparatory works or pre-salvation reformation; (5) eternal life is a gift of God; (6) believers are saved before their faith ever produces any righteous works; and (7) Christians can and do sin, sometimes horribly.
What, then, are the distinctives of lordship salvation? What does Scripture teach that is embraced by those who affirm lordship salvation but rejected by proponents of "easy-believism"? The following are nine distinctives of a biblical understanding of salvation and the gospel.
First, Scripture teaches that the gospel calls sinners to faith joined in oneness with repentance (Acts 2:38; 17:30; 20:21; 2 Pet. 3:9). Repentance is a turning from sin (Acts 3:19; Luke 24:47) that consists not of a human work but of a divinely bestowed grace (Acts 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25). It is a change of heart, but genuine repentance will effect a change of behavior as well (Luke 3:8; Acts 26:18-20). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that repentance is simply a synonym for faith and that no turning from sin is required for salvation.
Second, Scripture teaches that salvation is all God's work. Those who believe are saved utterly apart from any effort on their own (Titus 3:5). Even faith is a gift of God, not a work of man (Eph. 2:1-5,8). Real faith therefore cannot be defective or short-lived but endures forever (Phil. 1:6; cf. Heb. 11). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that faith might not last and that a true Christian can completely cease believing.
Third, Scripture teaches that the object of faith is Christ Himself, not a creed or a promise (John 3:16). Faith therefore involves personal commitment to Christ (2 Cor. 5:15). In other words, all true believers follow Jesus (John 10:27-28). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that saving faith is simply being convinced or giving credence to the truth of the gospel and does not include a personal commitment to the person of Christ.
Fourth, Scripture teaches that real faith inevitably produces a changed life (2 Cor. 5:17). Salvation includes a transformation of the inner person (Gal. 2:20). The nature of the Christian is new and different (Rom. 6:6). The unbroken pattern of sin and enmity with God will not continue when a person is born again (1 John 3:9-10). Those with genuine faith follow Christ (John 10:27), love their brothers (1 John 3:14), obey God's commandments (1 John 2:3; John 15:14), do the will of God (Matt. 12:50), abide in God's Word (John 8:31), keep God's Word (John 17:6), do good works (Eph. 2:10), and continue in the faith (Col. 1:21-23; Heb. 3:14). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that although some spiritual fruit is inevitable, that fruit might not be visible to others and Christians can even lapse into a state of permanent spiritual barrenness.
Fifth, Scripture teaches that God's gift of eternal life includes all that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3; Rom. 8:32), not just a ticket to heaven. In contrast, according to easy-believism, only the judicial aspects of salvation (e.g., justification, adoption, and positional sanctification) are guaranteed for believers in this life; practical sanctification and growth in grace require a post-conversion act of dedication.
Sixth, Scripture teaches that Jesus is Lord of all, and the faith He demands involves unconditional surrender (Rom. 6:17-18; 10:9-10). In other words, Christ does not bestow eternal life on those whose hearts remain set against Him (James 4:6). Surrender to Jesus' lordship is not an addendum to the biblical terms of salvation; the summons to submission is at the heart of the gospel invitation throughout Scripture. In contrast, easy-believism teaches that submission to Christ's supreme authority is not germane to the saving transaction.
Seventh, Scripture teaches that those who truly believe will love Christ (1 Pet. 1:8-9; Rom. 8:28-30; 1 Cor. 16:22). They will therefore long to obey Him (John 14:15, 23). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that Christians may fall into a state of lifelong carnality.
Eighth, Scripture teaches that behavior is an important test of faith. Obedience is evidence that one's faith is real (1 John 2:3). On the other hand, the person who remains utterly unwilling to obey Christ does not evidence true faith (1 John 2:4). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that disobedience and prolonged sin are no reason to doubt the reality of one's faith.
Ninth, Scripture teaches that genuine believers may stumble and fall, but they will persevere in the faith (1 Cor. 1:8). Those who later turn completely away from the Lord show that they were never truly born again (1 John 2:19). In contrast, easy-believism teaches that a true believer may utterly forsake Christ and come to the point of not believing.
Most Christians recognize that these nine distinctives are not new or radical ideas. The preponderance of Bible-believing Christians over the centuries have held these to be basic tenets of orthodoxy. In fact, no major orthodox movement in the history of Christianity has ever taught that sinners can spurn the lordship of Christ yet lay claim to Him as Savior.
This issue is not a trivial one. In fact, how could any issue be more important? The gospel that is presented to unbelievers has eternal ramifications. If it is the true gospel, it can direct men and women into the everlasting kingdom. If it is a corrupted message, it can give unsaved people false hope while consigning them to eternal damnation. This is not merely a matter for theologians to discuss and debate and speculate about. This is an issue that every single pastor and lay person must understand in order that the gospel may be rightly .
Posted by Ru Forreal | Monday, December 14, 2009 8:56 AM
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To those who have responded to my comments and come to the defense of John, let me respond to you all. I have gotten tired of Ministers asking for
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Dec 14, 2009 - 04:26pm PT
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The full text was chopped off so I include the link here:
http://www.gty.org/Blog/B091211
I am sorry Locker that there is not more on the "nine basic tenets of christian orthodoxy" describing how to distinquish between "true believers" and "hasty believers". There is more on how even true believers can lose their faith and fall away, along with what shall become of them.
Conflicted, as some of us surely are, we must needs have access to ALL of this vital information.
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