Roger

The word “ gambling”  cannot be found in the Bible.  However, like so many other issues in life, the Bible does contain timeless principles that apply.  We cannot assume that an activity is right or wrong simply because it is not mentioned. Some try to support gambling by comparing it to the  "casting of lots,"  which we read about in both the Old and New Testaments.  Although casting of lots was common among many ancient cultures, usually this method was employed when people had to make a decision; and in most instances, casting lots was simply a way of determining something impartially.  We remember that Roman soldiers cast lots for Jesus' garments at His crucifixion. What about today?  While casinos and lotteries promise thrills and excitement, people gamble to try to win money.  However, the Scriptures give very specific instructions about what our attitude should be toward money.   "Whoever loves money never has mon...

What did it mean when Paul told the believers at Philippi to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling?   Many today read this verse and become perplexed until they understand its proper context. First, let me tell you what this verse is NOT saying!  In no way is Paul suggesting that salvation is obtained by good works.  We adamantly believe that we are saved by grace through faith.  Paul emphatically maintains in Romans 3:28 and many other places in the New Testament  "that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law..." Like any verse, we need to look at the verses immediately before and after it to correctly ascertain its true meaning.  This somewhat suspicious verse is quite readily explained when we look at it within its proper context. Here's what Paul says in Philippians 2:12,  "So then, my beloved, just as you always have obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my a...

Lately, several newcomers to Hope Community Church inquired about our history.  One lady asked, “When was the church started?”  My reply seemed to startle her.  “The church was birthed in 1974.”  She said, I don’t remember this church being in Jefferson that long.”  I replied, “It was conceived in my heart in 1974 and born on September 10, 2017.   Let me explain. I was born in Ashtabula and grew up in Jefferson, graduating from Jefferson Area High School in 1974.   Four years prior to graduation, I came to faith in Jesus Christ while attending youth camp and simultaneously felt a call into ministry.   The summer after I graduated from JAHS, I struggled with my perceived need to remain home after my mother’s untimely death in 1972 or to leave for college.   One day, while walking in the field behind my home and feeling overwhelmed, I cried out to the Lord for direction.   I remember falling to the ground, sobbing in the high gra...