It’s Graduation Season here in Texas with celebrations of educational achievements by students from pre-kindergartens to high schools to universities.  The annual Graduation Season traditionally begins with university grads walking across the stage in early May and culminates with high school ceremonies in early June. Diplomas and degrees give each graduate their credentials with accompanying rights and privileges as specified. Each person deserves to be recognized and honored for their achievements, but graduates (and everyone else) should beware of the dangers of a prideful spirit.

Confidence rooted in humble dependence on God is far different than a boastful, self-serving pride. The challenge by the prophet Jeremiah to the 6^th century BC Israelites is applicable to any and all who are honored for their accomplishments. Thus says the Lord, “Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; ²⁴ but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 9:23-24

Pride is listed as one of the seven deadly sins, and indeed pride is toxic.  Arrogance is certainly a killer of relationships, undermines unity in any organization, sabotages the fellowship of the Church, corrupts the government, and destabilizes the culture to its very core. Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18

  Nebuchadnezzar was the King of Babylon who destroyed Jerusalem a short time after Jeremiah prophesied to that city.  This king was the most powerful man in the world as the Babylonian Empire controlled all nations including Israel.  He was also very self-centered and boastful of his power and wealth. The prophet Daniel bluntly spoke God’s message to the king and warned him to repent of his sin and acknowledge God’s power. Instead, King Nebuchadnezzar continued to boast in himself and did not worship God. His attitude was…  Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” Daniel 4:30 Immediately after this incident, Nebuchadnezzar literally lost his mind. At the height of his power, he began behaving as an animal. Even as the words were on his lips, a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you.  You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox. Daniel 4:31-32  As prophesied, Nebuchadnezzar’s mind and sanity was restored after seven years.    He then expressed a far different attitude as he boasted in the Lord, instead of himself.  I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion;   his kingdom endures from generation to generation. Daniel 4:34  

The accomplishments of kings, students, grads, moms, dads, employers, employees, athletes, entrepreneurs, should all be celebrated. As Nebuchadnezzar testified and Jeremiah instructed, celebration of accomplishments must always be centered in humble recognition that God is in control. Thus boast in the Lord is when you gratefully worship God as the great Giver of all gifts.  

 

STAAR

Educators in Texas speak and write in a code language of acronyms. STAAR is easily the most recognizable educational acronym, especially during this week of statewide testing. STAAR is the “State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness”, the standardized test most recently mandated by the Texas Legislature. STAAR replaces the TAKS which replaced the TAAS and is based on the TEKS curriculum standards set by the TEA. If all these acronyms make sense to someone, they will also know the secret handshake and have a decoder ring as full members of the educational inner circle!  The significance of STAAR and other assessments is to determine the knowledge level of students, and is also an evaluation of the effectiveness of the schools and teachers.  Educators, parents, and even students recognize that academic readiness is a link to successful careers and is the foundation for a stable culture. Thus STAAR brings accountability for students, parents, faculty, and administration through testing on various academic disciplines.

 Social Studies are one major category of STAAR alongside math, science, and reading skills. Social Studies is foundational to establishing a worldview which determines the social, political, economic, emotional, and even spiritual well-being of a specific culture. Therefore, knowledge of history sets the course for 21^st century USA customs and mores as time goes forward. Social Studies, including World History and US History are a secular subject, but the underpinning of social studies is ultimately rooted in spiritual truth.  That truth is that all history is at its core, HIS…Story, God’s story.  God has revealed Himself in creation. The oral and written record of humanity on planet earth is in context that God is the Author. The parameters for setting an historical timeline are established with an understanding of origins. Origin of the universe and of humanity is either from a secular or Biblical worldview.  A Biblical worldview is the recognition that the Source of all is God Himself. Paul addressed the great scholars of Athens and spoke this truth to them at their assembly on Mars Hill. The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; ²⁵ nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; ²⁶ and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, ²⁷ that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; ²⁸ for in Him we live and move and exist, Acts 16:24-28

Thus history is HIS…Story. Jesus is literally the Power that created and now sustains the universe.  Correct answers to the STAAR test or EOC (End of Course) Assessment are bubbled in on the scantron because of  adequate study and preparation by students and faculty. By contrast, an understanding of HIS..Story is not a grade earned, but is a gift that is accepted (or rejected)  by faith. God’s Word proclaims HIS…Story of redemption, restoration, resurrection. Each “student” has opportunity now to receive the HIS…Story correct answer, which is the Grace of the Cross and the power of the Empty Tomb. The ultimate EOC (End of Course) Assessment is when Jesus returns.  HIS…Story prophesies the future as well as telling of His work through past centuries.  Celebrate His…Story now through the Presence and Power of the resurrected Jesus!

Heart Change

The National Basketball Association continues to set higher and higher standards for attendance and television ratings.  The NBA is more than just a game–it’s big business also.  The popularity of professional basketball is even greater during the NBA playoffs than the regular season. The first round of the 2014 playoffs began in April and will climax with the championship series in June. Understandably, the focus during the NBA playoffs normally is the basketball game and the action on the court. The media broadcasts and reports on the various games with highlights featuring the skills of some of the best athletes in the world. Fans cheer for their hometown teams or favorite players and “trash talk” on which team will advance through the rounds to play in the championship.

The playoffs began this year with that same emphasis on the games on the court.  All that changed on Friday, April 25^th. A recording was released to the media on that day that has dramatically shifted the focus away from the ballgames to an intensive look into the very culture of the NBA. The recording is a conversation which includes insensitive, racist comments by Donald Sterling, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. His comments are certainly inflammatory, but this is only the most recent chapter in a long history of questionable actions and attitudes. The fact that Sterling has been a 30 year member of this very exclusive club of 30 franchise owners in the NBA is now a public embarrassment to the league. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has been quick to bring a ruling in response to his comments.  Silver issued a lifetime ban from any involvement with the NBA or the Clippers franchise.  He is also counseling the NBA Board of Governors to force Sterling to sell the Clippers. Although the process for forcing the sale is yet to be determined, it is a foregone conclusion that the actions of the Board of Governors will be enforced.

As Christ-followers in this 21^st century culture, this NBA racism incident teaches life lessons on how believers in Jesus are to impact the culture. One lesson is that racism is unacceptable in the USA, and certainly must be denounced by Christians of every ethnicity. Another lesson is that the root of racism or any wickedness is the heart not just the external words or actions. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:  Jeremiah 17:9 Therefore, the goal for the Christ-follower is to lead others to have a change of heart.  Above all else, guard your heart,   for everything you do flows from it.  Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Proverbs 4:23-24 A third lesson is that God changes the hearts of people. God speaks love as an offer of grace. Any person can have a change of heart. The gospel is that Jesus forgives all sin and thus any person can experience grace.  When an individual is in a love relationship with God, Christ transforms hatred and bigotry into loving authentic fellowship with other people. This change is the result of new life in Jesus Christ.  Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, ² through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand... how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many. Romans 5:1-2,17

Much has been achieved and\ yet there is more to be done to erase racism from American culture. True unity is possible in the fellowship of Christ Jesus. So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith … for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26-28 The NBA is certainly an example of cultural and racial diversity, but the local church must be the fundamental “Association” of love and respect for all persons in  the USA and for all the nations.

Olympics Oscars Politics- Winners and Losers

Pastor’s NewsViews


Tim Edwards, Pastor

First Baptist Church Highlands

Wins and losses define success in this 21st century world. This week, newspapers, magazines and the Internet headline several events where winners and losers are recognized in virtually every facet of life. There are actually only a few life situations where no one keeps score. Winners are honored and losers are eliminated in sports, entertainment, business, politics, and education. For example, athletes trained for the 2014 Sochi winter Olympics with goal of winning medals. Certainly there are other lofty ideals such as fostering positive international relations, but the focus is on winning and losing. They keep score at the Olympics with the medal count updated every day.

The entertainment industry is also highly competitive with the 86th annual Academy Awards this Sunday March 2nd. Although the nomination itself is an honor, producers, actors and studios care deeply whether or not they win the Oscar in the numerous categories. The box office is also a scorecard as blockbuster or bust measured by profit or loss due to high or low ticket sales.

Politics is another arena that is highly competitive and affects the quality of life of virtually all residents coast to coast. Elections never result in ties. There will always be a winner in every election! The March primaries signal the beginning of a very volatile, competitive 2014 political season. It matters greatly who wins or loses this March as nominees are chosen for the general election next November. Winning versus losing is the only goal for those who are now inundating the media with attempts to get your vote.

In this highly competitive world, a Biblical perspective regarding winners and losers must be modeled by the current generation and communicated to the next generation. Some persons devalue the importance of striving for excellence with attitude that all should be treated equally regardless of their actions or attitudes. This is mentality of playing a game and just not keeping score. Those with such a non-competitive philosophy often have very good intentions, but the ultimate result is a loss of productivity. Specifically, this attitude fosters laziness in children and youth if they do not learn the value of study and hard work. The contrast to this devaluing of competition is the philosophy that a person’s worth is measured by their performance. An overemphasis on winning has potentially dire consequences with the possibility of pride by winners and depression by losers.

The Biblical balance is to recognize the limitations of success relative to the eternal spiritual values. Paul expressed this contrast in his Holy Spirit inspired letter to 1st century church and pastor, Timothy. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God… 1 Tim 4:8-11

Biblical teaching is for Christ-followers to do all we do to honor God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father Col. 3:17 The Scriptural rationale for giving our best efforts in all ventures applies to athletes, employees, and students in 21st century just as it did to 1st century slaves to whom it was originally addressed. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, Eph. 6:6-7.

Olympic medalists, Oscar presentations, and 2014 political campaigning are a NewsViews reminder to Christ-followers that the Ultimate Winner is Jesus Christ. Thus, we are victorious in our relationship with Him. We are never losers, but always winners in Jesus...we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Rom 8:37-39

Snakehandlers

An example of a gross misunderstanding of scripture is in the news during this last week of February. Jamie Coots was co pastor of the Full Gospel Tabernacle in Jesus Name, in Middlesboro, Kentucky. On Saturday night, February 15th, he died from a rattlesnake bite after he “took up” the serpent in a religious ritual at church services earlier that night. Coots refused treatment for the snake bite both at the church and later at his home. Coots and his church are one of an estimated 125 USA congregations that practice a religious ritual of “taking up” snakes. This bizarre ritual is based on a misunderstanding of a phrase in the Gospel of Mark. They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them. Mark 16:18 Coots was featured last year in the National Geographic reality show Snake Salvation. He is a 3rd generation pastor leading his church in the snake handling ritual in their church services. The ritual is illegal, but local authorities generally tend to not prosecute snake handlers. Virtually all of the groups that hold to this belief are located in rural communities such as Middlesboro. Coots has led his church in this ritual for many years, and this was the 10th time he was bitten in a church service. Several years ago, Coots lost a portion of a finger as it literally rotted away to the bone due to a snake bite. The family views Coots death as simply God’s will. His son, Cody Coots said, The snake that bit him, we've been carrying him to the church for about four months. It's been carried hundreds of times, handled all kinds of times but now when it's your time to go, it's just your time to go.


Andrew Hamblin, whose mentor is Coots, is another pastor featured in the Snake Salvation reality show. Hamblin’s church, Tabernacle Church of God is across the state line in La Follette, Tennessee. In Tennessee, the conflict between over religious freedom is more than just a philosophical debate. The possession of the snakes is a clear violation of a 1947 law banning ownership of poisonous reptiles. These sincere snake handlers base their religious ritual on the Mark 16:18 scripture. Proper interpretation is that Jesus is simply stating the supernatural power of God in the lives of His followers. One example of that power is an incident recorded in the book of Acts. The apostle Paul was not hurt and God was glorified when he was bitten by a poisonous snake after surviving a storm and being shipwrecked. (Acts 28:5)

In response to this recent tragedy, please note two NewsViews conclusions. The 1stapplication is that all have every right to practice their religion as they choose. Neither the government nor other Christians have the right to prohibit the free expression of any religious belief, regardless of how bizarre it may be. Even to the point of death, these sincere, yet misguided believers must be free to express their religion. If the government is ever given the right to determine which religious rituals are acceptable, even the most orthodox church has the potential of being controlled by government. The 2nd application is that churches & Christians must make it a priority to train believers in the application of scripture. Paul’s challenge (accurately handling the word of truth 2 Tim 2:15) is just as practical in 2014 as it was in the 1st century.

The snake handling heresy is bizarre and dangerous and brings ridicule by those who are skeptical of Christians. There is, however, an even greater heresy regarding scriptural truth far more prevalent than snake-handlers in rural Appalachian states. This truly dangerous doctrinal error is the widely held belief in a universal grace. Biblical truth is that grace and justice complement each other. There cannot be one without the other. If there is grace, there must first be consequence for sin so that Christ’s sacrifice has purpose. Universalism is a worldview that must be challenged by truth. It is heartbreaking that a very sincere man, like Pastor Coots, would die with snake venom in his veins due to his misapplication of scripture. It is even more heartbreaking that millions of people are inflicted with the venom of sin. This venom brings eternal death and separation from God. As recorded in Genesis, Satan deceived humanity as the serpent in the garden. The promise from the very beginning is that God will ultimately crush the power of Satan. God cursed the serpent and spoke prophetically. He shall bruise you on the head, And you shall bruise him on the heel. Genesis 3:15 The power over the “serpent” is Jesus’ death burial and resurrection! All humanity has the venom of sin, but truth is now a song of triumph. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; 57 but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor 15:55-57

Today’s NewsView is a call to fervently defend our Constitutional rights for religious freedom. NewsViews is also a reminder to clearly teach salvation by grace instead of the heresy of universalism… but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor 15:55-57

Valentine Gay Agenda

Pastor’s NewsViews


Tim Edwards, Pastor

First Baptist Church Highlands



Valentine Day is celebrated each year with multiplied millions of expressions of affection and love. Husbands and wives schedule a date night or weekend together; sweethearts search for just the right gift to send to each other; children give homemade cards to parents and friends. All such gifts and statements of love are consistent with a Biblical worldview of love and family. The sad reality in 21st century USA is that the very foundations for traditional Valentines continue to be under siege. Cultural attacks on the family include potential legalization of same sex marriage in more states, blatant disregard for the Defense of Marriage legislation that is still the law of the land, and granting same sex benefits to couples by some secular and governmental employers. The irony is that more heterosexual couples choose to cohabit without marriage commitment, while same sex couples are lobbying to redefine marriage and family to accommodate their desires. There are many overt political issues in this cultural struggle as traditional Biblical definitions of love and family are attacked.

There are also many subtle attacks as the gay rights agenda is championed in popular media. The recent interview with an All American football player from the University of Missouri is one such example. The announcement that he has same-sex attraction is giving this Southeastern Conference (SEC) co-defensive player of the year huge notoriety. He is hailed in the media as courageous for his efforts to be the first openly gay player in the National Football League. It is ludicrous to treat any person as a hero just because he or she redefines sexuality by cultural standards and not scriptural truth. His sexual choice does not give him special status. It is responsible journalism and good football strategy to just discuss his football abilities and draft him to play defensive tackle in the NFL if he can compete at the next level. He is no hero- just another very good football player. There is no reason to discuss bedrooms; just determine if he has the talent to be in an NFL locker room and play on Sunday afternoons next fall.

Those with same sex attraction and heterosexuals are constantly tempted by sexual sin. The temptation is not the sin, but acting on the temptation violates God’s standards. Homosexual behavior is one of many choices where people live by their own standards instead of accepting Biblical truth. Other sexual temptations include heterosexual sex without a marriage commitment, adultery, pornography. All these temptations are a battle, but can be overcome by persons who choose that their first love is Jesus Christ. The issues of love and marriage on Valentine’s Day in the context of 21st century culture are far more complex than can be addressed in this brief NewsViews article. The short-version of this Valentine’s challenge for authentic love is defined by the 1st century Holy Spirit inspired love poem in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Christ-followers in ancient Corinth. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV

Legalize Pot is a bad idea!

Laws that define behavioral, moral parameters in a nation, region, or local community are not an option but are absolutely essential. These parameters must be established for the best interests of individuals and the group as a whole. The United States is a constitutional republic, and the rule of law derives its authority from the people. If laws are established to wield political clout, such totalitarianism enslaves people. By contrast, libertarianism also chains people with the bondage of no rules. Both extremes regarding the rule of law have a fatal error due to a false foundation. In the United States, the basis for enacting the various laws has traditionally been the Bible, the Word of God. National, state, and local entities have legislated and continue to enact laws affecting morality and behavior. For over 225 years, the USA has been singularly blessed by God.


Whether or not morality should be legislated is not debatable. The only question is regarding which moral issues will be addressed. All levels of government, national state, county, and municipal always are involved in legislating morality. Behavioral issues for either prohibition or regulation include the sale and consumption of alcohol, penalties for driving under the influence, gambling, prostitution, pornography, advertizing of tobacco products, and the legalization of marijuana for medicinal use and recreational use.

The legalization of marijuana is increasingly in the news. It is an issue that has been and continues to be addressed with significant misinformation. Christ-followers must confront the issue from the perspective of Biblical truth. It is likely that the issue of legalization of marijuana will continue to be a referendum for multiple states during the next few years, perhaps as early as the November elections in 2014. Two states, Washington and Colorado, recently voted to legalize recreational pot and the logistics of the sale and use of the drug are now being enacted. Baptist Press cites an interview with the New Yorker magazine in which Prsident Obama states his viewpoint regarding marijuana use. “I view it as a bad habit and a vice, not very different from the cigarettes that I smoked as a young person up through a big chunk of my adult life. I don't think it is more dangerous than alcohol." Apparently, a majority of the voters in the two states that have legalized the drug hold that viewpoint.

It is likely that some people in our community also believe this to be true, but the facts do not substantiate assertions of the harmlessness of marijuana. Although unlikely as a referendum in the near future, it is highly possible that voters in Texas will deal with the issue of whether or not to legalize the recreational use of marijuana at some time in the future. The principle that must guide all Christ-followers regarding this moral issue and any other moral/social issues is that Christ-followers must vote by the truth of God’s Word. The Holy Spirit inspired letter of the Apostle Paul to 1st century Corinth offers insight to 21st century Christians on how to live as responsible citizens . All persons in our country have the responsibility and the freedom to speak and vote your personal convictions.“… whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble” 1 Corinthians 10:31-32 In political/moral concerns and in your own personal habits, the goal of the Christ-follower must be to glorify God at all times. Be aware of the issues, and speak truth in love!

State of the Union

Pastor’s NewsViews


Tim Edwards, Pastor

First Baptist Church Highlands



In the news for the last week of January is the annual State of the Union address by the President of the United States. Although the timing and methodology has morphed, the mandate for this speech is in the United States Constitution. He (the President) shall from time to time give to Congress information of the State of the Union and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient. (Article 2 Section 3) By tradition, this message is in January or early February. The State of the Union Address originated as communication to a joint session of Congress. It is still primarily addressed to the Congress, but is now also a direct communication to the people of the United States. In the State of the Union Address, the President reports on the condition of the nation and outlines his legislative agenda and national priorities. On Thursday, January 28th, President Barack Obama will present his 5th such speech to the Congress. Predictably, supporters will applaud and opponents will criticize whatever is said in this speech.

Annual assessments are the expectation for virtually all organizations. Most entities coordinate their fiscal year with the calendar year. The month of January is therefore an appropriate time for corporations, community organizations, all levels of government, and even churches to bring reports to their respective constituencies. These reviews of the past year and vision casting for the current year are generally both objective and subjective. The objective data of the ledger is accountability, and the subjective passion of the leaders sets the tone for action. The bias of the audience will always determine how they perceive the various issues.

Fundamentally, a “state of the union” assessment for any “union” is an examination of the heart of each individual in that “union”. The most pertinent issue facing individuals who are members of any organization and for USA citizens in response to the President’s speech, is to assess all life situations in the context of the Will and Purposes of God. God speaks through His Word. No organization, political party or individual should ask God to endorse their own agenda. By contrast, the plan for your life must be to set your priorities and plans according to God’s agenda.

Our understanding and knowledge is limited. It is God’s assessment of our lives and our “unions” that must be sought. The prophet Isaiah spoke God’s Word as a challenge from God Himself to the nation of Judah 2800 years ago. This message is applicable in 2014 regarding any “union”. Seek the LORD while He may be found; Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the LORD, And He will have compassion on him, And to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, And do not return there without watering the earth, And making it bear and sprout, And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater. So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it. “For you will go out with joy And be led forth with peace…” (Isaiah 55:6-1)

God’s Ways must be accepted by FAITH. As Christ-followers, assess any and all situations by the Truth of God’s Word. Depend on God for direction. The “State of Union” for any “union” will be blessed by God only as His Ways are accepted as the goal by individual Christ-followers. Make a difference for joy and peace in our country, workplace, school, family, church or with any “union” of people through your affirmation of the Word of God!

Sanctity of Human Life

Pastor’s News Views


Tim Edwards, Pastor

First Baptist Church Highlands



The Supreme Court ruling on January 22, 1973 has incited strong emotion in America for the past 4 decades like no other issue. The Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion continues to be applauded by abortion activists and condemned by pro-life groups. The battle is waged on multiple fronts. Abortion is certainly a political issue as legislators debate various restrictions. It is also a judicial issue with the constitutionality of these laws always under scrutiny. Abortion is furthermore a personal moral issue as millions of pregnant women annually choose life or terminate life.

Sanctity of Human Life Sunday is observed this Sunday, January 19th in thousand of churches as attention is focused on the truths of God’s Word regarding the sacred gift of life, from conception onward. The Biblical worldview is that life is everlasting- there is a physical beginning, but the human soul is in the image of God and thus is eternal. The 1st National Sanctity of Human Life Day was recognized in a proclamation by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 on the 11th anniversary of Roe vs. Wade. Reagan issued the proclamation annually thereafter, designating Sanctity of Human Life Day to be the third Sunday in January. His successor, George H. W. Bush, continued the annual proclamation throughout his presidency. Sanctity of Human Life Day is not now designated by a presidential proclamation, but churches and pro life organizations recognize the day nationwide.

Sanctity of Human Life Sunday proclaims God’s Word and is an invitation to choose life from womb to tomb and beyond. A Holy Spirit inspired message through the prophet Micah who lived in the southern kingdom of Judah in the 8th century BC is applicable in 21st century. Micah called out unjust leaders, defended the rights of the poor against the rich and powerful, and preached social justice. The prophet proclaimed judgment while promising restoration of a remnant in the future. Although abortion rights were not the specific issue addressed by the prophet, the sanctity of human life was the issue for the residents of ancient Judah and Israel. Micah challenged people in that era… And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 God’s Word challenges Christ-followers in the 21st century also. A Biblical worldview of the Sanctity of Life affects personal & church response to specific moral/ethical issues. Justice, love, and humble dependence on God are foundational regarding personal morality, and in your political convictions.

Monday, January 20th is a federal holiday, marking the January 15th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Each 3rd Monday in January, our nation recognizes and honors this pastor and civil rights leader. Indirectly, the life of Dr. King calls attention to the Sanctity of Human Life. He certainly challenged the nation regarding the holiness and dignity of life for all persons. Dr. King’s famous speech on the National Mall at the Lincoln Monument eloquently expressed the dream for equality of all persons. The Sanctity of Human Life also expresses the dream and is fulfilled for all persons, womb to tomb, as Christ-followers live with justice, mercy, and humility (Micah 6:8)

Highlands Crime WatchPastor’s NewsViews 01/07/2014

Pastor’s NewsViews 01/07/2014


Tim Edwards, Pastor

First Baptist Church Highlands



On 1st Thursday of 2014, approximately 500 deeply concerned citizens gathered at First Baptist Church Highlands in response to the crime and safety concerns for the Highlands area. These citizens, Sherriff Adrian Garcia, Constable Ken Jones, and several other Harris County officers are to be commended for their attendance. Highlands resident and event organizer Mike James is living proof that one person can make a difference for good. It is imperative that this January 2nd meeting is the beginning of a movement, and not just a one-time gathering. Over 300 persons put their name on the dotted line to register for the Highlands Crime Watch Program. These are the people who are committed to taking action and making a difference.

One recurrent theme that was expressed during the Thursday night meeting is the need for prayer for our community. God’s Power and Peace is stronger than any evil. Christ-followers and churches are challenged to pray for the men and women who daily stand to protect us in their Law Enforcement roles. Intercede for the safety of the men, women, and families in our homes and businesses. Prayer is greater than one more New Year resolution- prayer is a lifestyle of faith and trust expressed in continual submission to God and His Will. Although it is appropriate to voice specific requests to God, the true spirit of prayer is not just to talk to God because we have troubles. Prayer is intimacy in a love relationship with God. Christ-followers who love truth will pray directly and specifically for physical safety but will also talk to God regarding His Will. Christ-followers are under authority- the authority of God’s Word. The demand is that we be hearers and doers of the Word. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves James 1:22 As doers of the Word, get involved in making a spiritual difference and in combating crime.

Commitment and organization are essential for a Crime Watch to protect our homes and businesses. Commitment and organization is demanded by God Himself for Christ-followers to have a supernatural impact in the lives of people. If we keep doing the same things, we will keep getting the same results. That is a truism physically and spiritually. There is a direct correlation between hearing and obeying God’s Word and whether an area is victimized by evil. Highlands and this area will change as individual hearts change. God’s Word and His grace transforms hearts. Make a difference by a lifestyle that honors God. As you hear and do God’s Word, Highlands will not be the same. Love Truth! If Christ-followers dare to ask God to bless and protect our community, we must first commit to obey God’s Word.

Community transformation is all about taking action. Get involved with the Crime Watch. Be vigilant in protecting your home or business without being a vigilante. Commit to hear and obey God’s Word by personal study and church involvement. Love truth and live truth day by day in 2014!